This document is a user guide for a personal computer (PC), covering various aspects from initial setup and software usage to hardware components, troubleshooting, and other essential information.
PC System Overview
The PC system is designed to provide an easy-to-use graphical interface through Windows, allowing users to perform a wide range of tasks from basic document creation to advanced multimedia and internet activities. It comes pre-installed with Windows XP and includes a Reload CD for system restoration.
Reload CD
Function Description: The Reload CD is a crucial tool for restoring the PC's software to its original "out-of-the-box" condition. It effectively fixes most software problems, including conflicts, accidental file deletions, or damage, and removes corrupt files or viruses from the hard drive. It's designed to get the PC working again in cases of booting problems, sound, display, CD/DVD drive issues, or application startup failures.
Important Technical Specifications: The Reload CD utilizes a small, compressed hidden partition on the hard disk drive that stores a copy of the Windows Operating System and all pre-loaded software. This partition is undeletable and unoverwritable.
Usage Features:
- Ease of Use: Requires no special technical knowledge or expertise.
- Restoration Process:
- Back up personal data (files, documents, pictures) to floppy disks or blank CDs before use, as the process wipes all data.
- Insert the Reload CD into the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive with the label facing up.
- Switch the PC off with the disk still in the drive, then switch it back on.
- The PC will restart and display a menu with the option 'R' for Restore.
- Press 'R' and follow the on-screen instructions.
- The restoration process takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes.
- Once prompted, remove the Reload CD and restart the PC.
- Record the Reload code displayed at the end of the process.
- What is NOT Restored:
- Programs installed from CD, floppy disk, or downloaded from the Internet after receiving the PC. These can be reinstalled after the reload.
- User-created data files (word processor documents, templates, database files, digital camera pictures, scanned images).
- Warning: If the hard drive is replaced by the end user, the hidden partition will be lost, making the reload function unavailable.
Mouse
Function Description: The mouse is a primary input device used in conjunction with the keyboard for navigating and interacting with Windows applications.
Usage Features:
- Pointing: Moving the mouse to an item on the screen changes the on-screen pointer (arrow or hand).
- Left Click: Pressing and quickly releasing the left mouse button to select an icon or function.
- Right Click: Used to bring up a menu of choices.
- Double Click: Pressing and releasing the left mouse button twice in quick succession to 'open' an item, run a program, or open a file/folder. Speed can be adjusted in Windows Help and Support.
- Dragging and Dropping: Pressing and holding the left button on an item, moving the mouse to a destination, and then releasing the button to move the item.
- Intellimouse (with wheel):
- Scrolling: Rotating the wheel up and down to scroll through documents or web pages.
- Zooming/Magnifying: Can zoom in and out in some applications.
- Clicking the wheel: Can change scroll direction or start other functions depending on the application.
Keyboard
Function Description: A standard typewriter-like input device with additional keys for special functions.
Usage Features:
- Function Keys (F1-F12): Used for quick tasks like printing, summoning help menus, or saving files.
- Cursor/Arrow Keys: Used for moving the cursor or highlight.
- Esc (Escape) Key: Used to exit menus or applications.
- Windows Key: Brings up the 'Start' menu.
- Right Click Key: Opens a menu of additional functions.
- Space Bar: Creates spaces between words or letters.
- Delete Key: Deletes letters, words, or paragraphs.
- Carriage Return Key (Return): Creates new lines in documents; also used to select 'OK' (Yes) in applications.
- Euro Symbol: Accessed by pressing the '4' key (under Function Keys) simultaneously with 'Ctrl' and 'Alt' (or 'Alt Gr').
Wireless Internet Keyboard and Mouse
Function Description: Provides wireless input for the PC, connecting via a receiver unit.
Usage Features:
- Connecting:
- Plug the receiver unit into the keyboard and mouse ports on the PC.
- Place the receiver unit at least 20cm away from other electrical devices.
- Batteries:
- Insert two AA batteries into the battery compartment of the keyboard and mouse.
- The battery light on the mouse indicates low battery.
- ID Setting:
- The receiver unit ID switch is on top of the receiver.
- The keyboard ID switch is on the underside of the keyboard.
- The mouse ID switch is on the underside of the mouse.
- Initialization:
- Press the receiver ID switch.
- Within 5 seconds, press and release the keyboard ID switch.
- Within 5 seconds, press and release the mouse ID switch.
- If not working, repeat all steps.
- Note: Batteries are correctly installed. Replace if necessary.
- Note: Refer to the model-specific setup guide for further information.
Windows XP Desktop
Function Description: The primary graphical interface for interacting with the PC.
Usage Features:
- Starting Programs: Click the 'Start' button to open the menu of programs and applications.
- Icons: Double-clicking an icon on the desktop or in a window launches the associated program or function.
- Taskbar: Displays running programs and other system information.
- Help and Support: The 'Start' menu, 'Help and Support' option, or F1 key provides access to help. Pop-ups offer additional information.
User Accounts
Function Description: Allows multiple users to have personalized accounts on the PC.
Usage Features:
- Personalization: Each user can have a personal logon name, password, folder for documents, and customized desktop settings.
- Adding an Account:
- From the Desktop, go to 'Start' > 'Control Panel' > 'User Accounts'.
- Click 'Create a new account', type a name, and choose between 'Administrator' or 'Limited' account type.
- Creating a Password: If required, click 'Create password' and follow on-screen instructions. Passwords are case-sensitive.
- Administrator Account:
- First account setup in Windows XP has Administrator privileges.
- Can create, change, and delete all user accounts.
- Can make system-wide changes.
- Can install programs and access all files on the computer.
- Limited Account:
- Best for children or occasional users.
- Can change only their own account details and desktop settings.
- Can view only their own files or those in shared folders.
- May not be able to install some programs.
- Note: Multiple users are optional; without them, the PC starts with the initial logon name.
Installing Additional Software
Function Description: Process for adding new software from CD-ROM.
Usage Features:
- General Advice:
- Close any running Windows programs.
- Insert the CD-ROM. Most disks auto-play. If a Limited account is logged on, select an Administrator account.
- Go to 'Start' > 'Control Panel' > 'Add/Remove Programs'.
- Click 'Add new programs' > 'Add a program from floppy disk or CD-ROM'.
- Follow on-screen instructions, accepting default locations.
- Click 'Finish'.
- Note: Most programs create entries under 'Start' > 'All Programs'.
- Games Software:
- Check system requirements (RAM, CPU speed, graphics card, Windows version, compatibility, additional software like DirectX).
- Some games may require upgrades to hardware components over time.
- Microsoft DirectX: Pre-loaded. If asked to install an older version during game installation, always say 'NO'. Check current version via 'Start' > 'Run' > 'dxdiag'.
- Compatibility Mode: For older programs, use 'Compatibility Mode' (search in XP Help and Support) to ensure correct operation.
Shutting Down
Function Description: Proper procedure for turning off the PC, logging off, or changing users.
Usage Features:
- Shut Down:
- Save all work and exit programs.
- Click 'Start' > 'Turn Off Computer' > 'Turn off'.
- Standby: Recommended for short periods of inactivity.
- Restart: Restarts the computer.
- Warning: Switching off the PC without following the shutdown procedure can cause data loss or software corruption.
- Logging Off or Changing User:
- Log Off: 'Start' > 'Log Off' to end the session and return to the main login screen.
- Switch User: 'Start' > 'Log Off' > 'Switch User' to allow another user to log in without shutting down.
Connecting to the Internet
Function Description: Enables internet access via a 56k modem or Broadband.
Important Technical Specifications: Standard 56k modem, British Telecom (BT) telephone line required for most accounts, Broadband offers up to ten times faster access.
Usage Features:
- Supanet (UK only): Follow registration screen on startup or double-click the Supanet Internet icon on the Desktop.
- Internet Explorer: Pre-installed browser. Access online help via 'Help' and 'Tutorials' on Supanet's home page.
- Call Waiting: MUST be disabled before connecting to avoid interference.
- Closing Connection: Click the RED X in the top right corner of Internet Explorer, then 'Disconnect Now'. Alternatively, right-click the 'Connection Monitor' icon and select 'Disconnect'.
Outlook Express
Function Description: Used for sending and receiving emails.
Usage Features:
- Access: 'Start' > 'E-Mail - Outlook Express'.
- Creating an Email:
- Click 'New Mail'.
- Type recipient's email address in "To:", subject in "Subject:", and message in the main window.
- Sending an Email:
- Click 'Send' (message stored in 'Outbox').
- Click 'Send/Receive' (if prompted, go online).
- Click 'Connect' (if 'Dial Up Connection' box appears). Message is sent and a copy stored in 'Sent Items'.
- Reading Emails:
- Launch Outlook Express and 'Connect'.
- Emails download to 'Inbox'.
- Click 'Inbox' to see sender and subject; message shown in preview panel. Double-click to open in a separate window.
- Closing: 'File' > 'Exit' and 'Disconnect Now'.
- Additional Email Addresses (Aliases): Can create multiple aliases (e.g., bill@smith.supanet.com) for family members.
Building Your Own Website
Function Description: Allows users to create personal websites using Supanet's Worldbuilder2 tool.
Usage Features:
- Access: After logging into Supanet, click 'My Webspace' > 'Worldbuilder2'.
- Worldbuilder2: A web-based program, accessible from any internet-connected PC.
- Building: Follow step-by-step guide. The left panel provides instructions, the right panel shows the website as it develops.
- Publishing: Once finished, 'Publish Your Site' to make it live on the Internet.
- Promoting: Promote the website to appear in Supanet and international searches.
- Saving: The 'Quit' button automatically saves work.
- Warning: Avoid including financial information, location details, or primary email address to prevent vulnerability to viruses and SPAM.
Security on the Internet
Function Description: Protects the PC from viruses, Trojans, worms, hackers, and unwanted emails (SPAM).
Usage Features:
- Anti-virus Software:
- Scans files, documents, and programs for suspicious behavior.
- Uses a virus list to identify known viruses.
- Maintenance: MUST be updated regularly (ideally every time connecting to the Internet). Most update automatically; some require manual updates. Program updates may require PC restart.
- Anti-hacker (Firewall) Software:
- Controls information flow, allowing only requested information to enter the PC and authorized information to leave.
- Crucial for protecting against direct hacker attacks, which anti-virus software may not detect.
- Common Sense and Caution:
- Never provide financial or password information via email or pop-up windows unless initiated by the user on a trusted site.
- Never open or preview emails from unknown senders.
- Agree on a code with known contacts for email subject lines to verify authenticity.
- SPAM:
- Unsolicited marketing emails, potentially adult or malicious.
- Prevention: Keep primary email safe, create aliases for newsletters. Contact ISP (e.g., Supanet) for information on spam filters. Supanet uses active filters and blacklists offenders.
- Warning: Never give account/password details to anyone other than ISP advisor to prevent account theft and spamming.
- Popups:
- Adverts appearing randomly while browsing. Can be harmless or contain viruses.
- Management: If unsure, use Task Manager to end the process: Press 'Ctrl + Alt + Delete', select the popup, and click 'End Task'.
- Software is available to prevent popups from appearing or downloading.
Disk Drives
Function Description: Stores programs and data.
Important Technical Specifications:
- A: Floppy drive: 3.5", 1.44Mb capacity.
- B: Additional Floppy drive: (Not normally fitted).
- C: Hard disk drive: Capacity depends on PC ordered.
- D: CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive: 650Mb or 4.7Gb up to 17Gb.
- E: CD-Writer or DVD-Writer: 650Mb or 4.7Gb up to 17Gb (if fitted).
- Windows XP Naming: Hard drives start with 'C:', optical drives follow alphabetically (e.g., D:, E:, F:).
- Warning: Avoid magnetic objects near the PC or floppy disks as they can destroy data.
Removable Drives/Storage
Function Description: Allows access to data on removable media.
Usage Features: Examples include Digital Cameras, Zip Drives, USB Pen Drives, Multimedia Card Readers. Always read documentation for removal instructions.
The Hard Disk Drive
Function Description: Stores the operating system, programs, and user data.
Usage Features:
- Checking Space: 'Start' > 'My Computer', right-click C: drive icon, 'Properties'. A pie chart shows used space.
- Freeing Space: Uninstall unused programs, run maintenance tasks.
- Defragmenter:
- Function: Reads and re-saves files in continuous blocks for quicker access.
- Usage: 'Start' > 'All Programs' > 'Accessories' > 'System Tools' > 'Disk Defragmenter'.
- Select drive, click 'Analyze', then 'Defragment' if recommended.
- Maintenance: Can take several hours. Monitor progress bar. If it restarts, another program is interfering. Best run when no other programs (especially screensavers) are active.
Disk Cleanup
Function Description: Frees up hard drive space by identifying and deleting unnecessary files.
Usage Features:
- Access: 'Start' > 'All Programs' > 'Accessories' > 'System Tools' > 'Disk Cleanup'.
Recycle Bin
Function Description: Temporarily stores deleted files, allowing retrieval before permanent deletion.
Usage Features:
- Access: Double-click the Recycle Bin icon.
- Emptying: 'File' > 'Empty Recycle Bin' to permanently delete files and free up space.
CD-ROM Drives
Function Description: Reads various disc formats.
Important Technical Specifications:
- CD-Audio: CDDA format, for music.
- CD-ROM: Read-only, for text, graphics, hi-fi sound. CD-ROM players can play audio discs.
- DVD-Audio: Audio-only, can include music videos, graphics.
- DVD-ROM: Read-only, for data, menus, audio, video. Most play DVD-Video movies.
- CD-R: Write-once, up to 650MB (or 1GB) data. Inexpensive, shareable.
- DVD-+R: Write-once, up to 4.7GB data. Used for high-quality video.
- CD-RW: Re-writable multiple times. CD-RW drives read/write CD-R/CD-RW. Older CD-ROM drives may not read CD-RWs.
- DVD-+RW: Re-writable, can also create CD-RW and CD-R discs.
- DVD-Video: Store commercial movies (MPEG2 video, digital surround sound).
Usage Features:
- Common Functions: Stop/Eject Button, Power/Read Light, Manual release button/eject (pinhole for stuck discs).
- Operating: Press eject button, place disc (printed side up), press eject button again.
- Note: Most auto-play; some do not for safety.
CD-Writers
Function Description: Reads and plays CDs, and writes data to CD-R and CD-RW disks.
Usage Features:
- CD-R: Write-once, data can be added until full.
- CD-RW: Data can be deleted (individual files or entire disk) and re-written multiple times.
- Software: Comes with necessary software for audio and data CDs.
- Compatibility: Not all CD-R/CD-RW disks are compatible with every drive. Contact support for recommendations.
- Windows XP Support: Built-in support for saving information to CD-R/CD-RW disks.
- Copying Files/Folders:
- Insert CD-R/CD-RW.
- Select files/folders, click 'Copy this file/folder' under 'File and Folder Tasks'.
- In dialog box, click CD-RW drive, then 'Copy'.
- In My Computer, double-click CD-RW drive. Files appear under 'Files ready to be written to the CD'.
- Under 'CD Writing Tasks', click 'Write these files to CD' and follow instructions. Alternatively, 'File' > 'Write these files to CD'.
- Hints on Writing CDs:
- Do not copy more than 650MB to standard CDs.
- Ensure enough hard drive space (700MB for standard CD) for temporary files.
- Verify copied files.
- Use brand-name blank disks.
- Copyright: Copying copyrighted material without permission is illegal.
DVD-ROM Drive
Function Description: Reads and plays DVD-ROM discs, which hold up to 17Gb of information for multimedia, games, and movies.
Usage Features:
- Viewing Movies: Insert DVD movie. Windows XP will prompt for a program (e.g., PowerDVD) to play it. PowerDVD shows a control panel similar to a home DVD player.
- Region Codes: DVD disks and players have embedded region codes. Ensure DVDs are for Europe (Region 2).
DVD-+Writers
Function Description: Performs all functions of CD drives, reads DVDs, and writes data to DVD-R and DVD-RW disks.
Usage Features:
- DVD-R: Write-once, data can be added until full.
- DVD-RW: Data can be deleted and re-written multiple times.
- Software: Comes with necessary software for audio, data, and DVD disks.
- Hints on Writing DVDs:
- Avoid Interruptions: Turn off programs (screensavers, email, virus updates, fax software) and log off networks.
- Keep Files in Same Place: Store files to be burned in one folder or a dedicated partition for disc images. Do not copy across a network.
- Create Real Disc Image: Safer for burning many small files.
- Defrag Often: Defragment hard drive to consolidate fragmented data for faster access.
Game Controllers
Function Description: Input devices (game pads, joysticks) for games.
Important Technical Specifications: USB game controllers plug into USB ports.
Usage Features:
- Connection: Plug into a USB port (USB port 2 recommended). Only one game pad/joystick plugged in at a time.
- Installation: Follow instructions supplied with the controller. Message "new hardware detected" appears.
- Testing and Calibrating:
- Go to 'Control Panel' > 'Printers and Other Hardware' > 'Game Controllers'.
- Select controller, click 'Properties'.
- Use 'Test' tab to check movement and button functions.
- Use 'Settings' tab to calibrate for optimum performance.
Modems
Function Description: Links PC to telephone line for Internet access and email.
Important Technical Specifications: Latest V92 56K modems.
Usage Features:
- Physical Connection: Connect modem from 'Line' socket on PC to telephone point using supplied cable. Refer to Setup Guide. Use BT-approved extension cables for data communications.
- Troubleshooting:
- Check Modem Detection: 'Start' > 'Control Panel' > 'Switch to Classic View' > 'Phone and Modem'. Select modem, 'Diagnostics' tab, 'Query Modem'. Should show 'Success'.
- 'No dial tone' message: Check modem cable connection to working phone socket, ensure no one else is using the line, check total REN value of telephony devices (typically max 3).
- Warning: 'Call Waiting' interferes with modem operation; disable it. Modems damaged by thunderstorms are not covered by warranty; use surge protectors. Extension cables can cause difficulties.
Firewire (IEEE 1394) Ports
Function Description: High-speed transfer of data in real-time between video/audio devices and scanners.
Important Technical Specifications: Faster than USB 1. Not all PCs have Firewire ports.
Usage Features: Located in expansion port bays.
- Note: Install drivers for peripheral devices connected via Firewire.
LAN Network Port (Ethernet)
Function Description: Connects PC to other computers, networks, or cable broadband services.
Important Technical Specifications: Optional internal 10/100 Base-T LAN port. Supports 10Mbps and 100Mbps data transfer rates. Standard RJ-45 connector.
Usage Features:
- Connection: Connect one end of cable to network wall outlet/hub/ADSL router, other end to computer RJ-45 LAN port.
Help & Support
Function Description: Provides assistance for Windows XP and applications.
Usage Features:
- Windows Help and Support: 'Start' > 'Help and support'. Or press F1.
- Search: Type keyword/phrase in 'Search' panel.
- Index: Click 'Index' for a list of topics.
- Tour Windows XP: In 'All Programs/Accessories', offers animated demonstrations and walkthrough guides.
- Application Help: Most applications have 'Help' menus. Press F1 for context-sensitive help.
Electronic Manuals
Function Description: Provides access to manuals in electronic (PDF) format.
Usage Features:
- Viewing: Use Acrobat Reader (preloaded or on System/Driver CD). Double-click any PDF file.
- Software Manuals: Look for manuals on software CDs or in booklets.
- Feature Help: Click '?' symbol in application window, then click on the desired feature.
Troubleshooting
Function Description: Provides solutions for common PC problems.
Usage Features:
- PC Won't Turn On:
- Check system unit and monitor power lights and switches.
- Check power and signal cable connections.
- Swap power cables to test for faults.
- Unplug optional peripherals.
- Display Blank (Monitor Power Light On):
- Wait a moment.
- Adjust brightness/contrast.
- Check signal cable.
- "Out of Range" Error (Windows XP):
- Restart PC, press F8/F5 for advanced options menu.
- Select "Enable VGA Mode".
- Click 'yes' to adjust screen resolution.
- PC Beeps Continuously:
- Check for depressed keyboard keys.
- Dry keyboard if spilled.
- Unplug optional peripherals.
- Unplug keyboard/mouse from PS/2 ports, shut down, restart. Test with a different keyboard/mouse.
- 'Disk boot failure' / 'Invalid system disk' Error:
- Remove floppy disks/CD-ROMs, press 'Enter'.
- If issue persists, contact Technical Support.
- 'CMOS Battery state low' Error: Replace CMOS battery.
- Keyboard/Mouse Not Detected: Check connections, test on another computer.
- Windows logo stays on screen / Keyboard/Mouse don't work: Check/swap keyboard/mouse cables.
- Cannot Copy to Floppy Disk: Ensure disk is formatted, not full, not write-protected.
- Blank Screen (Standby): Move mouse or press key to wake PC.
- 'Back slash' / 'Forward slash' Keys: '' is next to 'Z', '/' is on same key as '?'.
- Incorrect Key Output (e.g., 'f' gives '#'): Use 'Regional Settings' in 'Control Panel' to select English/British keyboard.
Useful Web Sites: Lists various manufacturers and support websites (e.g., TOTAL CARE SUPPORT, LEXMARK, CYBERLINK, JENOPTIK, ATI, MICROSOFT, GSP & DK SOFTWARE, INTEL, AMD, KASPERSKY, NORTON, MICROSTAR, CREATIVE LABS, GIGABYTE, SAMSUNG, NVIDIA, CHAINTECH, ALBATRON).
This Manual: Provided free, intended to assist in product use. Supplier does not guarantee accuracy and accepts no liability for loss/damage from information provided. Read instructions carefully.
Software Copyright: Software and documentation are copyrighted. License is for single-user on this system only. No copying or distribution allowed. No free training/support. Software may have errors; back up work. Supplier not liable for damages from software use/inability to use.
Software Compatibility: Designed for most general PC applications. Cannot guarantee all applications will run without modification/upgrade. Requirements change over time. Demo versions can be used to check compatibility.
Hardware Compatibility: Supplier provides details of tested hardware. Incompatible or incorrectly fitted hardware may damage PC and void warranty. Upgrade service available for approved components.
Exclusions of Consequential Loss: Supplier accepts no liability for consequential loss/damage from product use/failure, including economic/financial loss, damage to peripheral equipment, loss of use, productivity, or time.
Declaration of Conformity: Equipment conforms to EC DIRECTIVE 89/336/EEC (EMC) and 72/23/EEC (Low Voltage Directive). Applied standards include BS EN 55022B, BS EN 61000-3-2, BS EN 61000-4-2, BS EN 61000-4-4, BS EN 60950.
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