Page 1
Aspire 5538 Series Service Guide Service guide files and updates are available on the ACER/CSD web; for more information, please refer to http://csd.acer.com.tw PRINTED IN TAIWAN...
Page 4
Conventions The following conventions are used in this manual: SCREEN MESSAGES NOTE WARNING CAUTION IMPORTANT Denotes actual messages that appear on screen. Gives bits and pieces of additional information related to the current topic. Alerts you to any damage that might result from doing or not doing specific actions.
Page 5
DIFFERENT part number code to those given in the FRU list of this printed Service Guide. You MUST use the list provided by your regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and service of customer machines.
Page 13
• Operating: 20% to 80% • Non-operating: 20% to 80% NOTE: The specifications listed above are for reference only. The exact configuration of the PC depends on the model purchased. Chapter 1...
System Block Diagram VRAM 512MB 64M16 x 4 DDR3 LVDS Conn. ATI M92-S2 LP uFCBGA-631 CRT Conn. HDMI Conn. Port 2 Port 0 MINI Card 2 MINI Card 1 WWAN WLAN IO Board PWR Board TP Board LID SW/Cap sensor Board Power On/Off CKT.
Your Notebook Tour This section provides an overview of the features and functions of the notebook. Front View Icon Chapter 1 Item Acer Crystal Eye Web camera for video communication. Webcam Microphone Internal microphone for sound recording. Display screen Also called Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD), displays computer output.
Left View Icon Item Communication Enables / disables the WLAN function. Backup key Launches Acer Backup Management for three-step data backup. Indicates when the hard disk drive is active. Eject button Presses to eject the optical disk from the drive.
Icon HDMI Right View Icon Chapter 1 Item Ventilation slots Enable the computer to stay cool, even after prolonged use. External display Connects to a display device (e.g., external (VGA) port monitor, LCD projector). HDMI port Supports high definition digital video connections.
Base View Icon Battery bay Battery lock Memory compartment Hard Disk Bay Ventilation slots and/or cooling fan Battery Release Latch Rear View Icon Battery bay Item Houses the computer's battery pack. Note: The battery shown is for reference only. Your PC may have a different battery, depending on the model purchased.
Indicators The computer has several easy-to-read status indicators. The battery indicator is visible even when the computer cover is closed. Icon Function Bluetooth Wireless LAN 3G communication Num Lock Caps Lock Battery NOTE: 1. Charging: The battery light shows amber when the battery is charging. 2. Fully charged: The light shows green when in AC mode.
TouchPad Basics The following items show you how to use the TouchPad: • Move your finger across the TouchPad (1) to move the cursor. • Press the left (2) and right (3) buttons located beneath the TouchPad to perform selection and execution functions.
Using the Keyboard Your Acer Aspire Series notebook has a close-to-full-sized keyboard and an embedded numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, function and special keys. Lock Keys and embedded numeric keypad The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off.
Windows Keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Windows key Pressed alone, this key has the same effect as clicking on the Windows Start button; it launches the Start menu. It can also be used with other keys to provide a variety of functions: <...
Hot Keys The computer employs hotkeys or key combinations to access most of the computer's controls like screen brightness and volume output. To activate hotkeys, press and hold the <Fn> key before pressing the other key in the hotkey combination. Hotkey Icon <Fn>...
Special Keys You can locate the Euro symbol and the US dollar sign at the upper-center and/or bottom-right of your keyboard. The Euro symbol Open a text editor or word processor. Hold <Alt Gr> and then press the <5> key at the upper-center of the keyboard. NOTE: Some fonts and software do not support the Euro symbol.
Page 26
Item Supports DIMM Speed Video Specifications Item Chipset Package Features Hard Disk Drive Interface Item Vendor & Model Hitachi HTS545050B9A300 Name Capacity (MB) Bytes per sector Data heads Drive Format Disks Spindle speed (RPM) Performance Specifications Buffer size Interface Internal transfer rate (Mbits/sec, max) I/O data transfer...
Page 27
Item Buffer size 8 MB Interface SATA Internal transfer rate (Mbits/sec, max) I/O data transfer rate (Mbytes/sec max) DC Power Requirements Voltage Item Vendor & Model Toshiba MK1655GSX Name Capacity (MB) Bytes per sector Data heads Drive Format Disks Spindle speed (RPM) Performance Specifications Buffer size...
Page 28
Item Spindle speed (RPM) Performance Specifications Buffer size Interface Internal transfer rate (Mbits/sec, max) I/O data transfer rate (Mbytes/sec max) DC Power Requirements Voltage Specifications 5400 8 MB SATA 5V ±5% Chapter 1...
Page 29
DC 5 V +/- 5% Specification Insyde • Flash ROM 1MB • Support ISIPP • Support Acer UI • Support multi-boot • Suspend to RAM (S3) / Disk (S4) • Various hot-keys for system control • Support SMBUS 2.0, PCI2.3 •...
Page 30
1.1, 1.2 & 2.0 + EDR (Extended Data Rate) 3.0Mbps Specification AC-coupled input,100mVP-P maximum Realtek RTL8111CA-VB-GR GIGA LAN. Integrated on mainboard • Supports 10/100/1000 mbps ACER AC7T JV50 103/104/107 • Supports Application keys for Windows XP version • 1 for WLAN (full size) Specifications Specification...
Page 31
Item Interface Optical aperture Focusing range Dimensions (L x W x H Sensor type Pixel resolution Pixel size Image size Wireless LAN Item Type Foxconn FOX_ATH_XB63 Foxconn Atheros XB63 minicard b/g 802.11g Radio Technology Operating Frequency Modulation Schemes Channel Numbers •...
Page 32
Item Operating Frequency Modulation Schemes Channel Numbers • Data Rate Media Access Protocol Transmitter Output Power 802.11b Radio Technology Operating Frequency Modulation Schemes Channel Number • Data Rate Media Access Protocol Transmitter Output Power Battery Item Vendor & model name Battery Type Pack capacity Number of battery cell...
System Utilities BIOS Setup Utility The BIOS Setup Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer’s BIOS (Basic Input/ Output System). Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run Setup.
Information The Information screen displays a summary of your computer hardware information. Information Main Advanced C P U T y p e C P U T y p e C P U S p e e d C P U S p e e d H D D M o d e l N a m e : H D D M o d e l N a m e : H D D S e r i a l N u m b e r :...
Main The Main screen allows the user to set the system time and date as well as enable and disable boot option and recovery. Information Main Advanced S y s t e m T i m e : S y s t e m T i m e : S y s t e m D a t e : S y s t e m D a t e : T o t a l M e m o r y :...
Advanced The Advanced screen allows the user to configure the various advanced BIOS options. IMPORTANT: Making incorrect settings to items on these pages may cause the system to malfunction. Unless you have experience adjusting these items, we recommend that you leave these settings at the default values. If making settings to items on these pages causes your system to malfunction or prevents the system from booting, open BIOS and choose Load Optimal Defaults in the Exit menu to boot up normally.
Page 37
Parameter Peripheral Enter the Peripheral Configuration menu. Configuration Enter the IDE Configuration menu. Configuration Video Enter the Video Configuration menu. Configuration Enter the USB Configuration menu. Configuration Chipset Enter the Chipset Configuration menu. Configuration ACPI Table/ Enter the ACPI Table/Features Control Features Control menu.
Security The Security screen contains parameters that help safeguard and protect your computer from unauthorized use. Information Main Advanced S u p e r v i s o r P a s s w o r d I s : S u p e r v i s o r P a s s w o r d I s : U s e r P a s s w o r d I s : U s e r P a s s w o r d I s :...
Setting a Password Follow these steps as you set the user or the supervisor password: Use the ↑ and ↓ keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the Enter key. The Set Supervisor Password box appears: C o n f i r m N e w P a s s w o r d Type a password in the “Enter New Password”...
Changing a Password Use the ↑ and ↓ keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the Enter key. The Set Password box appears. E n t e r C u r r e n t P a s s w o r d C o n f i r m N e w P a s s w o r d Type the current password in the Enter Current Password field and press Enter.
Power The Power screen allows the user to configure CPU and power management options. Information Main Advanced A d v a n c e d C P U C o n t r o l A d v a n c e d C P U C o n t r o l A C P I S 1 : A C P I S 1 : A C P I S 3 :...
Boot This menu allows the user to decide the order of boot devices to load the operating system. Bootable devices includes the USB diskette drives, the onboard hard disk drive and the DVD drive in the module bay. Information Main Advanced B o o t p r i o r i t y o r d e r : B o o t p r i o r i t y o r d e r :...
Exit The Exit screen allows you to save or discard any changes you made and quit the BIOS Utility. Information Main Advanced E x i t S a v i n g C h a n g e s E x i t S a v i n g C h a n g e s E x i t D i s c a r d i n g C h a n g e s E x i t D i s c a r d i n g C h a n g e s L o a d S e t u p D e f a u l t s...
BIOS Flash Utility The BIOS flash memory update is required for the following conditions: New versions of system programs • New features or options • Restore a BIOS when it becomes corrupted. • Chapter 2...
DOS Flash Utility Perform the following steps to use the DOS Flash Utility: Press F2 during boot to enter the Setup Menu. Select Boot Menu to modify the boot priority order, for example, if using USB HDD to Update BIOS, move USB HDD to position 1.
WinFlash Utility Perform the following steps to use the WinFlash Utility: Double click the WinFlash executable. Click OK to begin the update. A progress screen displays. When the process is complete, close all programs and applications and reboot the system. Chapter 2...
Remove HDD/BIOS Password Utilities This section provide you with removing HDD/BIOS method: Remove HDD Password: When the user keys in the wrong password three times, the system reports the following error code to user. To unlock the HDD password, perform the following steps: Press Enter to display the Select Item screen.
Removing BIOS Passwords: If you key in the wrong Supervisor Password three times, System Disabled displays on the screen. See the image below. To reset the BIOS password, run clnpwd.exe as follows: From a DOS prompt, Execute clnpwd.exe Press 1 or 2 to clean the desired password shown on the screen. The on-screen message determines whether the function is successful or not.
Miscellaneous Utilities Using Boot Sequence Selector Boot Sequence Selector allows the boot order to be changes without accessing the BIOS. To use Boot Sequence Selector, perform the following steps: Enter into DOS. Execute BS.exe to display the usage screen. Select the desired boot sequence by entering the corresponding sequence, for example, enter BS2 to change the boot sequence to HDD|CD ROM|LAN|Floppy.
Example 1: Read DMI Information from Memory Input: dmitools /r Output: Manufacturer (Type1, Offset04h): Acer Product Name (Type1, Offset05h): Aspire 5538 xxxxx Serial Number (Type1, Offset07h): 01234567890123456789 UUID String (Type1, Offset08h): xxxxxxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxxxxxxxxxx Asset Tag (Type3, Offset04h): Acer Asstag Example 2: Write Product Name to EEPROM...
Machine Disassembly and Replacement This chapter contains step-by-step procedures on how to disassemble the notebook computer for maintenance and troubleshooting. Disassembly Requirements To disassemble the computer, you need the following tools: • Wrist grounding strap and conductive mat for preventing electrostatic discharge •...
General Information Pre-disassembly Instructions Before proceeding with the disassembly procedure, make sure that you do the following: Turn off the power to the system and all peripherals. Unplug the AC adapter and all power and signal cables from the system. Place the system on a flat, stable surface.
External Module Disassembly Process NOTE: The product previews seen in the disassembly procedures may not represent the final product color or configuration. External Modules Disassembly Flowchart Remove Dummy Card Remove DIMMs Screw List Step Screw HDD Module M2.5*4 HDD Carrier M3*3 WLAN Board M2*3...
Removing the Battery Pack Turn the computer over. Slide the battery lock/unlock latch to the unlock position. Slide and hold the battery release latch to the release position (1), then slide out the battery pack from the main unit (2). Chapter 3...
Removing the Hard Disk Drive Module See “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 45 Loosen the two captive screws in the HDD Cover. Lift the HDD cover up using the finger tab to remove. Six tabs hold the door in place. Chapter 3...
Page 57
Remove the two screws securing the HDD Module in place. Step HDD Module M2.5*4 Slide the HDD in the direction of the arrow to disconnect the HDD from the interface connector. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Page 58
Lift the hard disk drive module out of the bay. NOTE: To prevent damage to device, avoid pressing down on it or placing heavy objects on top of it. Remove the four screws (two each side) securing the hard disk to the carrier. Step HDD Carrier M3*3...
Remove the HDD from the carrier. Removing the Optical Disk Drive Module See “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 45 Loosen the three captive screws in the HDD Cover. Chapter 3...
Page 60
Lift the HDD cover up using the finger tab to remove. Six tabs hold the door in place. Remove the screw securing the ODD module. Step ODD Module M2.5*3 Slide the ODD module out of the assembly Chapter 3 Size Quantity Screw Type...
Page 61
Remove the screws securing the ODD bracket and remove the ODD bracket from the optical disk drive module. Step ODD Bracket M2*3 Insert an appropriate tool into the manual ODD tray release to open the ODD tray. Press down on the ODD bezel securing clip and pull the bezel out of the ODD. Size Quantity Screw Type...
Removing the DIMM Module See “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 45 Loosen the two captive screws in the Memory Cover. Lift the Memory Cover up to remove. Pull up using the thumb tab (indicated by the circle below) to release the seven clips securing the cover in place.
Page 63
Push out the release latches on both sides of SODIMM socket 1 to release the memory module. Remove the DIMM. Push out the release latches on both sides of SODIMM socket 0 to release the DIMM. Chapter 3...
Removing the WLAN Board See “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 45. Loosen the two captive screws in the HDD Cover. Lift the HDD cover up to remove. Use the finger tab to release the six clips securing the cover in place. NOTE: The HDD is also located under this cover.
Page 66
Disconnect the Antenna cables from the WLAN Board. NOTE: Cable placement is White to the AUX terminal (right) and Black to the MAIN terminal (left). Remove the single screw securing the WLAN Board in place. Step WLAN Board M2*3 Chapter 3 Size Quantity Screw Type...
Page 67
Remove the WLAN Board from the Mainboard. Chapter 3...
Main Unit Disassembly Process IMPORTANT: Cable paths and positioning may not represent the actual model. During the removal and replacement of components, ensure all available cable channels and clips are used and that the cables are replaced in the same position. NOTE: The product previews seen in the disassembly procedures may not represent the final product color or configuration.
Removing the Keyboard IMPORTANT: The keyboard is easily warped or damaged during the removal process. Take care not to use excessive force when removing the keyboard and replace if any damage occurs. See “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 45. Turn the computer rightside up and open the lid to the full extent.
Page 71
Turn the Keyboard over and lay down on the touch pad. Open the Keyboard FFC securing latch as shown, then disconnect the FFC and remove the Keyboard. Chapter 3...
Removing the Upper Cover Remove all external modules. See “External Modules Disassembly Flowchart” on page 44. Remove the screws securing the Upper Cover to the Lower Cover. Step Upper Cover M2.5*8 Turn the computer over and disconnect the following cables from the Mainboard: Chapter 3 Size Quantity...
Page 73
Disconnect the Speaker Cable as shown. Release the locking latch and disconnect the Power Board FFC as shown. Release the locking latch and disconnect the Button Board FFC as shown. Chapter 3...
Page 74
Release the locking latch and disconnect the Media Board FFC as shown. Remove the six securing screws from the Upper Cover. Step Size Quantity Screw Type Upper Cover M2.5*6 Chapter 3...
Page 75
Starting at a top corner, pry apart the Upper and Lower Covers as shown. Working from the back corners toward the back center, pry apart the covers to release the securing hooks on the top edge as shown. Push the front corner of the top cover towards the back to release the front edge hooks and pry apart as shown.
Removing the Button Board IMPORTANT: The Touchpad Board cannot be removed individually. To replace the Button Board, replace the entire Upper Cover. See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 62. Remove the mylar sheet covering the Button Board. Remove the four screws securing the button board to the Upper Cover. Step Button Board M2*3...
Page 77
Lift the securing latch and disconnect the single FFC connecting the Button Board to the Touchpad. Peel back the two FFCs to release the adhesive. IMPORTANT: Ensure that the FFCs are disconnected before attempting to remove the Button Board. Slide the Button Board out from under the securing tab in the Upper Cover as shown. Chapter 3...
Page 78
Pull the Mainboard FFC through the cover as shown. IMPORTANT: Ensure that the FFC is not torn off during removal. Chapter 3...
Removing the Touchpad Bracket See “Removing the Button Board” on page 66. Remove the single screw securing the Touchpad Bracket to the Upper Cover. Step TouchPad M2*3 Bracket Pull the bracket up from under the securing tabs along the top edge. NOTE: It may be necessary to use a tool to first push the securing tabs back so that the bracket may be more readily removed.
Page 80
Slide the Touchpad Bracket out from the slots in the upper cover. Chapter 3...
Removing the Power Board See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 62. Remove the single screw securing the Power Board to the Lower Cover. Step Power Board M2.5*3 Pull the FFC up to remove it from the adhesive securing it to the Speaker Module. Tilt the board 90 degrees to clear the securing tab.
Page 82
IMPORTANT:The FFC is soldered to the power board. Take care when lifting to minimize bending of the connection, lest breakage occur. Lift the Power Board from the Lower Cover. Chapter 3...
Removing the Speaker Modules See “Removing the Power Board” on page 71. Remove the four screws securing the Speakers to the Upper Cover. Step Speaker Module M2.5*3 Lift the right side speaker out from the Lower Cover and peel back the mylar to expose the speaker wire as shown.
Page 84
Remove the Speaker Cable from the cable channel. Ensure that the cable is free from all cable clips. Lift the right side speaker out from the Lower Cover as shown. Chapter 3...
Removing the Media Board See “Removing the Speaker Modules” on page 73. Remove the single screw securing the Media Board to the Lower Cover. Step Media Board M2.5*3 Remove the securing bracket from the Media Board. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Page 86
Peel back any mylar adhered to the Media Board. Tilt the Media Board up to clear the securing pins. Remove the Media Board, pulling the FFC through the cover as shown. IMPORTANT: Ensure that the FFC is not torn off during removal. Chapter 3...
Removing the Bluetooth Module See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 62. Disconnect the cable from the Bluetooth Module. Lift the Bluetooth Module, left side first, to remove it from the Lower Cover. Chapter 3...
Removing the I/O Board See “Removing the Upper Cover” on page 62. Open the locking latch and disconnect the FFC from the Mainboard. Disconnect the cable from the Mainboard. Chapter 3...
Remove the single screw securing the I/O Board to the Lower Cover. Step I/O Board M2.5*6 Tilt the board up as indicated and carefully flip the board over. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Page 90
Remove the adhesive securing the I/O Board cable to the Lower Cover. Disconnect the I/O Board Cable from the I/O Board. Chapter 3...
Removing the DC-In Cable See “Removing the I/O Board” on page 78. Remove the DC-In Socket from the well on the bottom cover. Remove the DC cable from the securing clips as shown. NOTE: If replacing the DC cable, the mainboard must be lifted to access the connector. See “Removing the Mainboard”...
Removing the Mainboard See “Removing the DC-In Cable” on page 81. Disconnect the Microphone cable from the Mainboard. Disconnect the Bluetooth cable from the Mainboard. Chapter 3...
Remove the two screws securing the Mainboard and Fan to the Lower Cover as indicated. Step Mainboard M2.5*5 Lift the Mainboard right side first to release the I/O ports and separate the board from the Lower Cover. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Page 94
Reach under the mainboard to unplug the LVDS cable, and remove the Mainboard from the assembly. Disconnect the DC-In Cable from the mainboard. Chapter 3...
Removing the LCD Module See “Removing the Mainboard” on page 82. Lift the adhesive strip securing the WLAN cables in place. Remove the Antenna cables from the cable channel on the Lower Cover as shown, all the way to the hinge well.
Remove the three screws on the rear of the Lower Cover securing the LCD Module to the Lower Cover. Step LCD Module M2.5*6 (red) LCD Module M2.5*8 (cyan) IMPORTANT: Ensure that the LCD cables are free from all cable clips before removing the LCD Module. Using both hands, lift the LCD Module away from the Lower Cover.
Removing the Fan See “Removing the Mainboard” on page 82. Disconnect the fan cable from the Mainboard. Remove the single screw securing the fan to the Mainboard. Step M2.5*6 Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Page 98
Lift the fan away from the Mainboard. Chapter 3...
Removing the Thermal Module See “Removing the Fan” on page 87. Remove the four screws securing the Thermal Module to the Mainboard in the following order: 1, 2, 3, 4. Step Thermal Module M2.5*6 Grasp the Thermal Module by the CPU heat sink and lift clear of the Mainboard as shown. Size Quantity Screw Type...
Removing the CPU See “Removing the Thermal Module” on page 89. Using a flat blade screw driver, rotate the CPU screw 180° counter clockwise to release the CPU from the socket. Lift the CPU clear of the socket. Chapter 3...
LCD Module Disassembly Process IMPORTANT: Cable paths and positioning may not represent the actual model. During the removal and replacement of components, ensure all available cable channels and clips are used and that the cables are replaced in the same position. NOTE: The product previews seen in the disassembly procedures may not represent the final product color or configuration.
Removing the LCD Bezel See “Removing the LCD Module” on page 85. Remove the four screw covers and four screws securing the front bezel to the LCD cover. Step LCD Bezel M2.5*4 Starting from the inside top edge, pry the bezel away from the panel. Continue moving along the top, prying the bezel away from the LCD Module.
Page 103
Work towards the middle and down the sides of the bezel, separating the securing clips. Pry apart the bottom edge of the bezel and push slightly upwards to release the hinge covers. Lift up the bezel and remove it from the LCD Module. Chapter 3...
Removing the Camera Board See “Removing the LCD Bezel” on page 92. Remove the Camera Board from the LCD Module. Disconnect the cable from the Camera Board as shown. Chapter 3...
Removing the LCD Panel See “Removing the Camera Board” on page 94. Remove the four screws securing the LCD Panel to the LCD Module. Step LCD Panel M2*3 Lift the LCD Panel out of the LCD Module front edge first. Size Quantity Screw Type...
Removing the FPC Cable See “Removing the LCD Panel” on page 95. Turn the LCD panel over on a clean surface. Lift the camera cable to detach the adhesive securing the cable to the LCD Panel. Carefully lift the adhesive tape securing the LVDS cable connector to the LCD Panel. Chapter 3...
Page 107
Hold the adhesive tape clear of the LCD Panel. Disconnect the LCD cable as shown and remove the cable from the LCD Panel. Chapter 3...
Removing the LCD Brackets See “Removing the LCD Panel” on page 95. Pick up the antenna cable so the bracket can clear the cable. Lift the top of the left LCD Bracket up and slide out from under the antenna cable. Lift the top of the right LCD Bracket up and slide out from under the antenna cable.
Removing the Microphone See “Removing the LCD Panel” on page 95. Remove the tape securing the Microphone cable to the antenna cables. Remove the Microphone cable from the shielding along the bottom edge of the LCD Cover. Lift up the shielding where it covers the Microphone cable and lift the cable as shown to remove the adhesive securing it to the LCD Cover.
Page 110
Lift the Microphone Module upward to detach the adhesive holding it in place. Chapter 3...
Removing the Antennas See “Removing the LCD Panel” on page 95. Remove the tape securing the Microphone cable to the antenna cables. Lift up the shielding holding the right Antenna cable in place. Ensure that the cable is free from all fasteners.
Page 112
Lift up the shielding holding the left Antenna cable in place. Ensure that the cable is free from all fasteners. Carefully pry up the left Antenna pad and remove the pad from the LCD Module. IMPORTANT: A strong adhesive is used to secure the Antenna pad in place. Take care not to bend the pad during removal.
LCD Module Reassembly Procedure Replacing the Antennas Adhere the Left Antenna Pad (White cable) to the LCD Cover as shown. Replace the shielding to secure the left Antenna cable in place. Ensure that the cable passes under all fasteners. Chapter 3...
Adhere the Left Antenna Pad (Black cable) to the LCD Cover as shown. Replace the shielding to secure the right Antenna cable in place. Ensure that the cable passes under all fasteners. Replacing the Microphone Push the Microphone Module in place as shown. Chapter 3...
Page 115
Press the cable onto the LCD cover as shown to secure it in place. Adhere the shielding tabs where they cover the Microphone cable. Secure the Microphone cable under the shielding tabs along the bottom edge of the LCD Cover. Apply tape to secure the Microphone cable to the antenna cables.
Replacing the LCD Brackets Lift the antenna cable and slide the left LCD Bracket under the antenna cable. Place the LCD bracket on the LCD cover so the LCD Cover pins penetrate the bracket. Lift the antenna cable and slide the right LCD Bracket under the antenna cable. Chapter 3...
Place the LCD bracket on the LCD cover so the LCD Cover pins penetrate the bracket. Replacing the FPC Cable Connect the LCD cable as shown. Adhere the clear adhesive tape to the LCD Panel. Chapter 3...
Adhere the camera cable to the LCD Panel. Replacing the LCD Panel Place the LCD Panel into of the LCD Cover back edge first, aligning the pins with the holes in the mounting tabs. Chapter 3...
Insert the four screws to secure the LCD Panel to the LCD Module. Step LCD Panel M2*3 Replacing the Camera Board Connect the cable to the Camera Board as shown. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Place the Camera Board into the LCD Module so that the mounting pins are aligned and press down to secure to the adhesive. NOTE: Be sure the magnet rests next to the post on the LCD cover as shown. Replacing the LCD Bezel Route the LVDS cable through the cable channel and hinge cover as shown.
Page 121
Connect the left and right hinge cover part of the LCD bezel, making sure that the cables pass through the holes. Press down on the bottom edge of the bezel until the securing clips snap into place. Chapter 3...
Page 122
Continue pressing down along the edges, working towards the top of the LCD Module. IMPORTANT:If any of the clips do not readily snap into place, check to make sure that none of the cables have been incorrectly routed and are blocking the clip. Chapter 3...
Main Unit Reassembly Process Replacing the LCD Module Using both hands, place the LCD Module into the Lower Cover. Replace the three screws on the rear of the Lower Cover to secure the LCD Module to the Lower Cover. Step LCD Module M2.5*6 (red)
Page 124
Insert the Microphone cable into the securing clips as shown. Insert the Antenna cables into the cable channel on the Lower Cover as shown, pushing the cables through the penetration to the bottom of the cover. Replace the adhesive strip to secure the WLAN cables in place. Chapter 3...
Replacing the CPU Place the CPU into the socket. IMPORTANT:Be sure to align the socket marker with the indicator on the CPU. The socket is a Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) socket. If the CPU does not drop into the socket, check to make sure the socket is unlocked and the pins of the CPU ar straight.
Page 126
Place the pads as shown. Grasp the Thermal Module by the CPU heat sink and place onto the Mainboard as shown. Chapter 3...
Insert the four screws to secure the Thermal Module to the Mainboard in the following order: 1, 2, 3, 4. Step Thermal Module M2.5*6 Replacing the Fan Place the fan onto the Mainboard. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Page 128
Insert the single screw to secure the fan to the Mainboard. Step M2.5*6 Connect the fan cable to the Mainboard. Chapter 3 Size Quantity Screw Type...
Replacing the Mainboard Connect the DC-In Cable to the mainboard. Reach under the mainboard to plug in the LVDS cable. Insert the Mainboard right side first, aligning the I/O ports with the Lower Cover. Chapter 3...
Page 130
Insert the LVDS cable into the cable channel as shown. Insert the DC-In cable into the securing clips as shown. Chapter 3...
Page 131
Insert the two screws securing the Mainboard and Fan to the Lower Cover as indicated. Step Mainboard M2.5*5 Connect the Microphone Cable to the Mainboard. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Replacing the I/O Board Connect the I/O Board Cable to the I/O Board. Apply the adhesive to secure the I/O Board cable to the Lower Cover. Insert the board into the lower cover so the white tab is under the securing clip in the lower cover, taking care to align the screw holes.
Page 133
Insert the single screw to secure the I/O Board to the Lower Cover. Step I/O Board M2.5*6 Connect the cable to the Mainboard. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Connect the FFC to the Mainboard and close the locking latch. Replacing the Bluetooth Module Insert the Bluetooth Module right side first and press down on the top to attach it to the Lower Cover. Connect the cable to the Bluetooth Module. Chapter 3...
Connect the Bluetooth cable to the Mainboard. Apply the adhesive to secure the cable in place. Replacing the Media Board Insert the Media Board FFC through the cover as shown. Chapter 3...
Page 136
Holding the mylar back, insert the Media Board under the securing clips in the upper cover and place on the upper cover so the aligning pins are in the holes. Adhere the mylar to the Media Board. Place the securing bracket on the Media Board so the tab penetrates the slot on the media board. Chapter 3...
Insert the single screw to secure the Media Board to the Lower Cover. Step Media Board M2.5*3 Replacing the Speaker Modules Place the right side speaker onto the Lower Cover as shown. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Page 138
Place the right side speaker into the Lower Cover and peel back the mylar to expose the wire guides as shown. Peel back the mylar and insert the Speaker Cable into the cable channel. Ensure that the cable passes under all cable clips. Chapter 3...
Insert the four screws to secure the Speakers to the Upper Cover. Step Speaker Module M2.5*3 Replacing the Power Board Insert the Power Board into the Lower Cover so the slot on the Power Board hooks onto the securing tab in the upper cover.
Insert the single screw to secure the Power Board to the Lower Cover. Step Power Board M2.5*3 Replacing the Touchpad Bracket Slide the Touchpad Bracket into the slots in the upper cover. Chapter 3 Size Quantity Screw Type...
Page 141
Push the bracket down until it is secured under the tabs along the top edge. Insert the single screw to secure the Touchpad Bracket to the Upper Cover. Step TouchPad M2*3 Bracket Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Replacing the Button Board Insert the Mainboard FFC through the cover as shown. Place the Button Board on the Upper Cover so that the securing tab penetrates the slot on the Button Board, then slide the board forward as shown. Adhere the FFCs to the upper cover.
Page 143
Connect the single FFC to the Touchpad and close the securing latch. Replace the four screws to secure the button board to the Upper Cover. Step Button Board M2*3 Replace the mylar sheet covering the Button Board. Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Replacing the Upper Cover Place the Upper Cover on the assembly bottom edge first. Starting at the bottom edge, press the edges of the upper cover and lower cover together. An audible click signifies that the securing clips are engaged. Chapter 3...
Page 145
Insert the six securing screws into the Upper Cover. Step Upper Cover M2.5*6 Turn the computer over and connect the following cables to the Mainboard: Size Quantity Screw Type Chapter 3...
Page 146
Connect the Power Board FFC and close the locking latch as shown. Connect the Speaker Cable as shown. Connect the Button Board FFC and close the locking latch as shown. Chapter 3...
Page 147
Connect the Media Board FFC and close the locking latch as shown. Connect the Media Board FFC and close the locking latch as shown. Chapter 3...
Turn the computer over and insert the screws to secure the Upper Cover to the Lower Cover. Step Upper Cover M2.5*8 Replacing the Keyboard Connect the FFC and close the Keyboard FFC securing latch as shown. Chapter 3 Size Quantity Screw Type...
Page 149
Insert the keyboard so that the bottom tabs enter the slots in the upper cover. Press down on the edges of the keyboard. An audible click indicates that the securing clips have engaged. Chapter 3...
External Module Reassembly Process Replacing the WLAN Board Insert the WLAN Board into the Mainboard. Insert the single screw to secure the WLAN Board in place. Step WLAN Board M2*3 Chapter 3 Size Quantity Screw Type...
Connect the Antenna cables to the WLAN Board. NOTE: Cable placement is White to the AUX terminal (right) and Black to the MAIN terminal (left). IMPORTANT:Ensure that the cables are tucked into the chassis to prevent them from being pinched when the lower covers are replaced.
Page 152
Press the DIMM down into the socket as shown. An audible click indicates the DIMM is properly installed. Insert a DIMM into Slot 1. Press the DIMM down into the socket as shown. An audible click indicates the DIMM is properly installed. Chapter 3...
Replacing the Hard Disk Drive Module Place the HDD into the carrier. Insert the four screws (two each side) to secure the hard disk to the carrier. Carrier screw holes have been numbered 1-4. Insert the screws in numerical order: 1, 2, 3, 4. Step HDD Carrier M3*3...
Page 154
Place the hard disk drive module into the bay. Slide the HDD in the direction of the arrow to connect the HDD to the SATA interface connector. Insert the two screws to secure the HDD Module in place. Step HDD Module M2.5*4 Chapter 3 Size...
Replacing the ODD Insert the hook on the ODD bezel as shown. Slide the securing clip of the ODD bezel into the slot on the ODD module. An audible click indicates the hook has engaged. Insert the two screws to secure the ODD bracket in place. Step ODD Bracket M2*3...
Page 156
Slide the ODD module into the assembly Insert the screw to secure the ODD module. Step ODD Module M2.5*3 Chapter 3 Size Quantity Screw Type...
Replacing the Lower Covers Place the HDD cover over the HDD bay. Press until the six tabs in the door engage. Tighten the two captive screws in the HDD Cover. Chapter 3...
Page 158
Place the Memory Cover on the memory bay. Press down until the seven clips in the cover snap into place. Chapter 3...
Common Problems Use the following procedure as a guide for computer problems. NOTE: The diagnostic tests are intended to test only Acer products. Non-Acer products, prototype cards, or modified options can give false errors and invalid system responses. Obtain the failing symptoms in as much detail as possible.
Power On Issue If the system doesn’t power on, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Computer Shutsdown Intermittently If the system powers off at intervals, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Check the power cable is properly connected to the computer and the electrical outlet.
No Display Issue If the Display doesn’t work, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: No POST or Video If the POST or video doesn’t display, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Make sure that the internal display is selected.
Abnormal Video Display If video displays abnormally, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Reboot the computer. If permanent vertical/horizontal lines or dark spots display in the same location, the LCD is faulty and should be replaced. See “Disassembly Process” on page 52. If extensive pixel damage is present (different colored spots in the same locations on the screen), the LCD is faulty and should be replaced.
LCD Failure If the LCD fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non- defective FRUs: Built-In Keyboard Failure If the built-in Keyboard fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Chapter 4...
Touchpad Failure If the Touchpad doesn’t work, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Internal Speaker Failure If the internal Speakers fail, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Chapter 4...
Sound Problems If sound problems are experienced, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Reboot the computer. Navigate to Start Control Panel the Device Manager to determine that: • The device is properly installed. • There are no red Xs or yellow exclamation marks.
Internal Microphone Failure If the internal Microphone fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Microphone Problems If internal or external Microphones do no operate correctly, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem.
HDD Not Operating Correctly If the HDD does not operate correctly, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Disconnect all external devices. Run a complete virus scan using up-to-date software to ensure the computer is virus free. Run the Windows Vista Startup Repair Utility: insert the Windows Vista Operating System DVD in the ODD and restart the computer.
ODD Failure If the ODD fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non- defective FRUs: ODD Not Operating Correctly If the ODD exhibits any of the following symptoms it may be faulty: •...
Page 172
Navigate to Start Control Panel Double-click lDE ATA/ATAPI controllers. If a device displays a down arrow, right-click on the device and click Enable. Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives. If the device displays a down arrow, right-click on the device and click Enable. Check that there are no yellow exclamation marks against the items in lDE ATA/ATAPI controllers.
Page 173
Navigate to Start Double-click IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers, then right-click ATA Device 0. Click Properties and select the Advanced Settings tab. Ensure that the Enable DMA box is checked and click OK. Repeat for the other ATA Devices shown if applicable. Drive Not Detected If Windows cannot detect the drive, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem.
USB Failure (Right side) If the rightside USB port fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Chapter 4...
Wireless Function Failure If the WLAN/WiMAX fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Start Reconnect the Check Antenna to Antenna to the WLAN/WiMAX C ard card Check Antenna Swap the Antenna Check WLAN/Wi MAX Swap WLAN/...
Bluetooth Function Failure If the Bluetooth fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non- defective FRUs: Easy Button Failure If the Media Board fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Chapter 4 Start...
Thermal Unit Failure If the Thermal Unit fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRUs: Start Reconnect the Check Fan power cable cable to the Mainboard Swap the Thermal Check Fan Module CPU Heatink well...
External Mouse Failure If an external Mouse fails, perform the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Try an alternative mouse. If the mouse uses a wireless connection, insert new batteries and confirm there is a good connection. See the mouse user manual.
Issue” on page 153): Power-off the computer. Visually check them for damage. If any problems are found, replace the FRU. Remove or disconnect all of the following devices: • Non-Acer devices • Printer, mouse, and other external devices • Battery pack •...
POST Code Tables These tables describe the POST codes and descriptions during the POST. NO_EVICTION_MODE_DEBUG EQU 1 (CommonPlatform\sec\Ia32\SecCore.inc) Post Code 0xC2 MTRR setup 0xC3 Enable cache 0xC4 Establish cache tags 0xC5 Enter NEM, Place the BSP in No Fill mode, set CR0.CD = 1, CR0.NW = 0. 0xCF Cache Init Finished Memory...
DLL Timing Control Registers, RCOMP settings Post Code 0x27 Enable DRAM Channel I/O Buffers 0x28 Enable all clocks on populated rows 0x29 Perform JEDEC memory initialization for all memory rows 0x30 Perform steps required after memory init 0x31 Program DRAM throttling and throttling event registers 0x32 Setup DRAM control register for normal operation and enable 0x33...
BDS & Specific action: Post Code 0x00 Report the legacy boot is happening 0x12 Wake up the Aps 0x13 Initialize SMM Private Data and relocate BSP SMBASE 0x21 PC init begin at the stage1 0x27 Report every memory range do the hard ware ECC init 0x28 Report status code of every memory range 0x50...
Page 183
Post Code 0xA8 PEI_SB_INIT 0x0C PEI_CAPSULE 0xAA PEI_PLATFORM_STAGE2 0xAC PEI_SB_SMBUS_ARP_DISABLED 0x0F PEI_HOST_TO_SYSTEM 0x40 PEI_MEMORY_INIT 0x41 PEI_S3_RESUME 0xAD PEI_CLOCK_GEN 0xAB PEI_OP_PRESENCE 0xAE PEI_FIND_FV 0x16 PEI_H2O_DEBUG_IO 0x17 PEI_H2O_DEBUG_COMM 0x16~0x1F PEI_RESERVED 0x20~0x2E PEI_OEM_DEFINED 0xAF PEI_DXE_IPL Each Driver entry point used in 80_PORT Post Code 0x30 RESERVED 0xB6...
Jumper and Connector Locations Top View ITEM DESCRIPTION Connect to IO/B (FFC) Connect to CAP/B (FFC) Connect to Bluetooth (Cable) Connect to Touch pad (FFC) Connect to Keyboard Connect to Power BTN board (FFC) JP19 Connect to Digital MIC JP20 Connect to speaker Chapter 5 ITEM...
Bottom View ITEM DESCRIPTION PJP1 Connect to Battery PJP2 DC-IN jack JDIM1 / DDR2 Memory socket JDIM2 JLVDS1 Connect to LED Panel JSATA1 Connect to SATA ODD JSATA2 Connect to SATA HDD JMINI1 Connect to WLAN JMINI2 Reserved JUSB1 / USB Connector JUSB2 JMIC1...
Clearing Password Check and BIOS Recovery This section provide you the standard operating procedures of clearing password and BIOS recovery for Aspire 5538. Aspire 5538 provides one Hardware Open Gap on main board for clearing password check, and one Hotkey for enabling BIOS Recovery.
BIOS Recovery by Crisis Disk BIOS Recovery Boot Block: BIOS Recovery Boot Block is a special block of BIOS. It is used to boot up the system with minimum BIOS initialization. Users can enable this feature to restore the BIOS firmware to a successful one once the previous BIOS flashing process failed.
Guide. For ACER AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDERS, your Acer office may have a DIFFERENT part number code from those given in the FRU list of this printed Service Guide. You MUST use the local FRU list provided by your regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and service of customer machines.
Model Definition and Configuration Aspire 5538 Series Model Country AS5538- EMEA Eastern 113G25Mn Europe AS5538- EMEA Middle 314G32Mn East AS5538- Australia/ 203G25Mn Zealand AS5538- EMEA 113G25Mn AS5538- EMEA Ukraine 113G25Mn AS5538- EMEA Turkey 113G25Mn AS5538- EMEA Switzerlan 113G25Mn AS5538- EMEA...
Page 203
AS5538- EMEA Denmark 113G25Mn AS5538- EMEA Denmark 113G25Mn AS5538- EMEA South 113G25Mn Africa Acer Part No LX.PE90X.016 AS5538-113G25Mn VHP32ATGR1 MC UMACss 2G+1G/250/6L/5R/CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_EL32 LX.PE90X.017 AS5538-113G25Mn VHP32ATES1 MC UMACss 2G+1G/250/6L/5R/CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_ES22 LX.PE90X.018 AS5538-113G25Mn VHP32ATPT1 MC UMACss 2G+1G/250/6L/5R/CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_PT12 LX.PE90X.019 AS5538-113G25Mn VHP32ATHU1 MC UMACss 2G+1G/250/6L/5R/CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_HU13 LX.PE90X.020...
Page 204
313G32Mn East AS5538G- EMEA Middle 313G32Mn East AS5538G- EMEA Middle 313G32Mn East Appendix A Acer Part No LX.PE90X.042 AS5538-113G25Mn EM VHP32ATZA1 MC UMACss 2G+1G/250/6L/5R/ CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_FR23 LX.PE90X.043 AS5538-113G25Mn EM VHP32ATZA2 MC UMACss 2G+1G/250/6L/5R/ CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_EN16 LX.PE90X.044 AS5538-113G32Mn VHP32ATNO1 MC UMACss 2G+1G/320/6L/5R/CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_NO12 LX.PE90X.045 AS5538-114G25Mn VHP32ATES1 MC UMACss 2*2G/250/6L2.2/5R/CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_ES22...
Page 205
Europe AS5538G- EMEA Russia 313G32Mi AS5538G- EMEA Austria 313G32Mn AS5538G- EMEA Sweden 313G32Mn Acer Part No LX.PEA0X.011 AS5538G-313G32Mn EM VHP32ATME2 MC M92LP512Css_V3 2G+1G/320/6L/5R/ CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_EN15 LX.PEA0X.012 AS5538G-313G32Mn EM VHP32ATME6 MC M92LP512Css_V3 2G+1G/320/6L/5R/ CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_EN15 LX.PEA0X.013 AS5538G-313G32Mn EM VHP32ATME9 MC M92LP512Css_V3 2G+1G/320/6L/5R/ CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_FR22 LX.PEA0X.014...
Page 206
AS5538G- CHINA China 312G32Mn AS5538G- EMEA Middle 313G32Mn East AS5538G- EMEA Spain 314G32Mn Appendix A Acer Part No LX.PEA0X.030 AS5538G-313G32Mn VHP32ATCZ2 MC M92LP512Css_V3 2G+1G/320/6L/5R/ CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_SK12 LX.PEA0X.031 AS5538G-313G32Mn VHP32ATNO3 MC M92LP512Css_V3 2G+1G/320/6L/5R/ CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_ENS3 LX.PEA0X.032 AS5538G-313G32Mn VHP32ATNO3 MC M92LP512Css_V3 2G+1G/320/6L/5R/ CB_bgn_0.3D_AN_ENS4 LX.PEA0X.033 AS5538G-313G32Mn VHP32ATNO1 MC M92LP512Css_V3 2G+1G/320/6L2.2/5R/...
Appendix B Test Compatible Components This computer’s compatibility is tested and verified by Acer’s internal testing department. All of its system ® ® functions are tested under Windows XP Home, Windows XP Pro environment. Refer to the following lists for components, adapter cards, and peripherals which have passed these tests.
This section describes online technical support services available to help you repair your Acer Systems. If you are a distributor, dealer, ASP or TPM, please refer your technical queries to your local Acer branch office. Acer Branch Offices and Regional Business Units may access our website. However some information sources will require a user i.d.
Need help?
Do you have a question about the Aspire 5538 Series and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers