This service guide provides you with all technical information relating to the basic configuration for Acer’s global product offering. To better fit local market requirements and enhance product competitiveness, your regional office may have decided to extend the functionality of a machine (such as add-on cards, modems, or extra memory capabilities).
Hardware Specifications and Configurations Features The following is a brief summary of the computer’s many features: Operating System ® Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit Platform ® Intel Core™ i7-2637M processor (4 MB L3 cache, 1.70 GHz.17W), i5-2467M processor (3 MB ...
Acer clear.fi Photo Cyberlink MediaEspresso NTI Media Maker Gaming Acer Fooz Kids Wild Tangent WW Acer Edition Communication and ISP Acer VCM Skype Windows Live Essentials 2011 Web links and utilities Acer Accessory Store ...
Page 20
Humidity (non-condensing): Operating: 20% to 80% Non-operating: 20% to 80% 1-10 Hardware Specifications and Configurations...
Notebook Tour This section provides an overview of the features and functions of the notebook. Open Top View Figure 1-1. Open Top View Table 1-1. Open Top View Icon Item Description Microphone Internal microphone for recording sound. Display screen Also called Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD), displays computer output.
Closed Front View Figure 1-2. Closed Front View Table 1-2. Closed Front View Icon Item Description Power button Turns the computer on and off. Power indicator Indicates the computer’s power status. Battery indicator Indicates the computer’s battery status. Closed Rear View Figure 1-3.
Table 1-3. Closed Rear View Icon Item Description Headphones/ Connects to audio line-out devices (e.g., speaker/line-ou speakers, headphones). t jack with S/PDIF support USB 2.0 port Connects to USB 2.0 devices (e.g., USB mouse, USB camera). USB 3.0 port Connects to USB devices. Supports the USB 3.0 (SuperSpeed USB) specification.
Table 1-4. Left View Icon Item Description Emergency eject hole Ejects the optical drive tray when the computer is turned off. NOTE: Insert a paper clip to the emergency eject hole to eject the optical drive tray when the computer is off. Multi-in-1 card reader Accepts Secure Digital (SD 3.0), MultiMediaCard (MMC).
Base View Figure 1-6. Base View Table 1-6. Base View Icon Item Description Main door Houses the computer’s HDD, Memory bar, SSD card and WLAN card. Speakers Deliver stereo audio output. 1-15 Hardware Specifications and Configurations...
Indicators The computer has two easy-to-read status indicators. The following indicators are visible even when the computer cover is closed. Table 1-7. Indicators Icon Function Description Power indicator Indicates the computer’s power status. Battery indicator Indicates the computer’s battery status. Touchpad Basics Figure 1-7.
Table 1-8. Touchpad Function Left Button (2) Right Button (3) Main Touchpad (1) Select Click once. Tap once. Access context Click once. menu Using the Keyboard The keyboard contains an embedded numeric keypad, a separate cursor, windows key, lock function keys, special and full sized keys. Figure 1-8.
Lock Keys The keyboard has three lock keys which the user can toggle on and off. Table 1-9. Lock Keys Lock key Description Caps Lock When on, all alphabetic characters are in uppercase. Num Lock Off by default. When On, internal keyboard acts as numeric key padlock. If an external keyboard or keypad is present, the Num Lock will have the following definitions: When On, the system boots with external keyboard/keypad Num Lock...
Windows Keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Windows Logo key Application key Table 1-10. Windows Keys Description Windows Logo 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.
Hotkeys The computer uses hotkeys or key combinations to access most computer controls. To activate hotkeys, press and hold the <Fn> key before pressing the key in the combination. Figure 1-9. Keyboard Hotkeys Table 1-11. Hotkeys Hotkey Icon Function Description <Fn>...
Page 31
Table 1-11. Hotkeys (Continued) Hotkey Icon Function Description Alt> + <F10> D2D recovery Enters to the D2D recovery during POST 1-21 Hardware Specifications and Configurations...
Page 32
System Block Diagram 1-22 Hardware Specifications and Configurations...
Specification Tables Computer specifications Item Metric Imperial Dimensions Length 376.4 mm 14.81 in Width 253.0 mm 10.0 in Height 19.7/20.7 mm 0.77/0.82 in (front/rear) Weight (equipped with optical 2.25 kg with HDD 4.5 lbs with HDD drive, flash drive, and battery) Input power Operating voltage 19V at 3.42A Max for 65W...
Page 34
System Board Major Chips Item Specification Core logic Intel Panther Point HM77 NVIDIA Optimus™ GeForce GT640M BCM57780 USB 3.0 RT9712AGS Embedded controller NUVOTON NPCE795L Bluetooth Atheros AR3012, Broadcom BCM20702 Wireless BCM943227HM4L NUVOTON NPCT420R(For future SKU) PCMCIA Audio codec Realtek ALC271X Card reader Realtek RTS5209 Processor...
Page 35
CPU Fan True Value Table Fan Speed (RPM) SPL Spec (dBA) Temperature 2600 3000 3300 3700 4000 Throttling 50%: On= 95 °C; OFF=80 °C OS shut down at 100C; H/W shut down at 92 °C System Memory Item Specification Memory controller Built in CPU Memory size 2GB DDR3 RAM on-board+one DDR3 DIMM socket...
Page 36
Support PXE Support WinFlash Wake on LAN from S3 Wake on LAN from S5 in AC mode System information Refer to Acer BIOS specification. LAN Interface Item Specification LAN Chipset BROADCOM BCM57780 LAN connector type RJ45...
Item Specification LAN connector location RJ45 at the rear side Features Supports 10/100/1000Mbps Keyboard Item Specification Type AF7S keyboard Total number of keypads 103-US/104-UK/107-JP keys Windows logo key Internal & external keyboard Plug USB keyboard to the USB port directly: Yes work simultaneously Features Phantom key auto detect...
Audio Codec and Amplifier Item Specification Audio Controller Realtek ALC271X 1-32 Hardware Specifications and Configurations...
Page 43
Item Specification Features Meets Microsoft WLP (Windows Logo Program) audio requirements High performance DACs with digital >110dB and analog 98dB (A-weighting) signal-to-noise High performance ADCs with digital > 100dB and analog 90dB (A-Weighting) signal-to-noise ratio Six DAC channels support 16/20/24-bit PCM format for 5.1 ...
Item Specification Amplifier Embedded Features 4 step gain control 2-W/Ch Output Power into 3- load from 5-V supply Fully Differential Input Low Supply Current and Shutdown selection Embedded de-pop circuit Audio Interface Item Specification Audio Controller Realtek ALC271X Audio onboard or optional On board...
Item Specification EHCI Number of USB port(s) USB3.0x1, USB2.0x2 Location USB3.0 at the rear side USB2.0 two at the rear side Output Current 1.0A for each connector HDMI Port Item Specification Compliance level HDMI1.3c Data thoroughput Up to 16.7 million colors Number of HDMI port(s) Location HDMI at the rear side...
Item Specification Maximum supported size SD: 2T, MMC: 16G, miniSD: 16G Features Supports SD Extended Capacity (SDXC), compliant with the SD Memory Card Specification Version 3.0. System LED Indicator Item Specification Power indicator Blue color solid on: System on Blue color and amber color off: System off ...
System Utilities BIOS Setup Utility A hardware configuration program built into a computer’s BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). Preconfigured and optimized so users do not need to run this utility. If configuration problems occur, users may need to run Setup. Refer to Chapter 4, Troubleshooting when problem arises.
BIOS The following is a description of the tabs found on the InsydeH20 Setup Utility screen: NOTE: NOTE: The screens provided are for reference only. Actual values may differ by model. Information This tab shows a summary of computer hardware information. Figure 2-1.
Page 55
Table 2-1 describes the parameters shown in Figure 2-1 Table 2-1. Parameters Parameter Description CPU Type The CPU type and speed of the system. CPU Speed The speed of the CPU. HDD Model Name The model name of HDD installed on primary IDE master. HDD Serial Number The serial number of HDD installed on primary IDE master.
Main This tab allows the user to set system time and date, enable or disable boot option and enable or disable recovery. Figure 2-2. BIOS Main Table 2-2 describes the parameters shown in Figure 2-2. Table 2-2. BIOS Main Parameter Description Format/Option System...
Page 57
Table 2-2. (Continued)BIOS Main Parameter Description Format/Option Quiet Boot The notebook shows an illustration called the OEM Enabled or Disabled screen during system boot instead of the traditional POST screen that shows the normal diagnostic messages. Network Enables, disables the system boot from LAN (remote Enabled or Disabled Boot server).
Security This tab shows parameters that safeguard and protect the computer from unauthorized use. Figure 2-3. BIOS Security Table 2-3 describes the parameters shown in Figure 2-3. Table 2-3. BIOS Security Parameter Description Option Supervisor Shows the setting of the supervisor password Clear or Password Is User Password Is...
Setting a Password Perform the following to set the user or supervisor password: 1. Use the and keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press Enter key. The Set Supervisor Password box appears. Figure 2-4. Set Supervisor Password 2.
Changing a Password 1. Use the and keys to highlight Set Supervisor Password and press the Enter. The Set Supervisor Password box appears. Figure 2-6. Set Supervisor Password 2. Type the current password in the Enter Current Password field and press Enter. 3.
Page 61
Figure 2-9. Setup Warning 2-11 System Utilities...
Boot This tab allows changes to the order of boot devices used to load the operating system. Bootable devices include the: USB diskette drives Onboard hard disk drive DVD drive in the module bay Use and keys to select a device and press F5 or F6 to move it up or down the list. Figure 2-10.
Exit The Exit tab allows users to save or discard changes and quit the BIOS Utility. Figure 2-11. BIOS Exit Table 2-4 describes the parameters in Figure 2-11. Table 2-4. Exit Parameters Parameter Description Exit Saving Changes Exit System Setup and save changes to the system. Exit Discarding Changes Exit utility without saving setup data to.
BIOS Flash Utilities BIOS Flash memory updates are required for the following conditions: New versions of system programs New features or options Restore a BIOS when it becomes corrupted. Use the Flash utility to update the system BIOS Flash ROM. NOTE: NOTE: Create a Crisis Recovery Disc, if one is not available, before the Flash utility is used.
DOS Flash Utility Perform the following to use the DOS Flash Utility: 1. Press F2 during boot to enter the Setup Menu. 2. Select Boot Menu to modify the boot priority order. Example: If using USB HDD to Update BIOS, move USB HDD to position 1. Figure 2-12.
Page 66
Figure 2-13. DOS Flash 4. In flash BIOS, the message Please do not remove AC Power Source is shown. NOTE: NOTE: If AC power is not connected, the following message (Figure 2-14) is shown. Figure 2-14. AC Power Warning NOTE: NOTE: Plug in the AC power to continue.
WinFlash Utility Perform the following to use the WinFlash Utility: 1. Double click the WinFlash executable. 2. Click OK to begin the update. A progress screen is shown (Figure 2-15). Figure 2-15. InsydeFlash 2-17 System Utilities...
Remove HDD/BIOS Password Utilities This section provides details for removing HDD/BIOS passwords. Remove HDD Password Utilities This section provides details for removing HDD passwords. Remove HDD Password as follows: NOTE: NOTE: If the HDD password is incorrectly entered three times, an error is generated, you will see below menu (Figure 2-16).
Page 69
Enter the password from the Step 1 to unlock the HDD (Figure 2-19). Figure 2-19. Unlock Password NOTE: NOTE: After customer clearing the HDD password, HDD maybe in “Frozen” state. Please power off system. Then, power on to Win system, HDD Password will be in normal. Figure 2-20.
Removing BIOS Passwords To clear User or Supervisor passwords, open the DIMM door and use a metal instrument to short the RTCRST# point.(Figure 2-21 and Figure 2-22) Figure 2-21. CMOS Jumper Figure 2-22. CMOS Jumper 2-20 System Utilities...
4. After press Y/y key, BIOS will clear BIOS password and reboot system. Figure 2-23. Clear BIOS Password The on screen message indicates the function success. NOTE: NOTE: This document is for Pegatron Acer project in 2012. 2-21 System Utilities...
Using DMI Tools The DMI (Desktop Management Interface) Tool copies BIOS information to EEPROM. Used in the DMI pool for hardware management. 1. Execute < MN.bat > to update SMBIOS Type 1 Manufacturer Name(Figure 2-23). Figure 2-24. Manufacture Name 2-22 System Utilities...
Page 73
2. Execute < PN.bat > to update SMBIOS Type 1 Product Name(Figure 2-24). Figure 2-25. Update Product Name 2-23 System Utilities...
Page 74
3. Execute < SN.bat > to update SMBIOS Type 1 Serial Number(Figure 2-25). Figure 2-26. Update Serial Number 2-24 System Utilities...
Page 75
4. Execute < AT.bat > to update SMBIOS Type 3 Asset Tag Number(Figure 2-26). Figure 2-27. Update Asset Tag 2-25 System Utilities...
Page 76
5. Execute < RU.bat > to read SMBIOS Type 1 UUID(Figure 2-27). Figure 2-28. Read UUID 2-26 System Utilities...
Page 77
6. Execute < WU.bat > to write SMBIOS Type 1 UUID(Figure 2-28). Figure 2-29. Write UUID 2-27 System Utilities...
Page 78
7. Execute < GU.bat > to generate and write SMBIOS Type 1 UUID (Figure 2-29). Figure 2-30. Generate and write UUID 2-28 System Utilities...
LAN MAC EEPROM Utility LAN EEPROM Utility enables to change the MAC address. Perfer the following steps to use the LAN EEPROM Utility: 1. Create a DOS bootable USB HDD. 2. Copy the AN MAC EEPROM Utility to the HDD and remove the HDD form the computer. 3.
Page 80
8. Enter Broadcom utility screen, then key in “secfg” command to show configuration screen. Figure 2-32. Broadcom utility screen 9. Enter configuration Figure 2-33. Configuration Screen 2-30 System Utilities...
Page 81
10. You can see the current MAC address in item1 and key in “1” to edit MAC address Figure 2-34. Edit MAC address 11. The new MAC address had changed in item1 Figure 2-35. MAC address Changed 2-31 System Utilities...
Page 82
12. Key in “x” key to save and exit configuration Figure 2-36. Exit configuration 2-32 System Utilities...
Page 83
13. Key in “q” to exit Broadcom program Figure 2-37. Exit Broadcom program 2-33 System Utilities...
Machine Disassembly and Replacement This chapter contains step-by-step procedures on how to disassemble the notebook computer for maintenance and troubleshooting. Cable paths and positioning may not represent the actual model. During the removal and installation of the components, ensure all available cable channels and clips are used and that the cables are replaced in the same position.
Pre-disassembly Instructions Before proceeding with the disassembly procedure, make sure to do the following: 1. Turn off the power to the system and all peripherals. 2. Unplug the AC adapter and all power and signal cables from the system. Figure 3-1. AC Adapter 3.
For example, when removing the mainboard, remove first the keyboard, and LCD module then disassemble the inside assembly frame in that order. Table 3-1. Main Screw List Screw Quantity Acer Part Number M2*2.5 Ni 86.W750U.003 M2*3 Ni 86.RY8N5.006 M2.5*5 Ni...
Removing the Dummy Card 1. Press the dummy card in to allow it to spring out. Figure 3-3. Dummy Card 2. Pull the dummy card out. Figure 3-4. Dummy Card...
Removing the HDD Module 1. Using tweezers, lift the pull tab out if lodged behind the HDD. 2. Hold the tab and lift the HDD. Figure 3-7. HDD Module 3. Disconnect the HDD and the SATA cable. Figure 3-8. HDD Module 3-11...
Removing the DIMM Module 1. Using fingers, push the memory module clips outwards. Figure 3-9. DIMM Module 2. Hold the module and pull the DIMM module from the connector. 3. Repeat for additional modules if present. 3-12...
Removing the WLAN Module 1. Disconnect the two cables from the WLAN module. IMPORTANT: Note the position of the Main (black) and Auxiliary (white) connectors. Figure 3-12. WLAN Module 2. Remove the screw and ensure the cables are well clear of the module. Figure 3-13.
Page 99
3. Pull the WLAN module out and away. Figure 3-14. WLAN Module 3-15...
Removing the ODD Module 1. Remove the screw from the ODD module. Figure 3-15. ODD Module Table 3-5. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type ODD Module Disassembly M2*3 2. Pull the ODD completely out of the bay. Figure 3-16. ODD Module 3-16...
Page 101
3. Remove the 2 screws from the ODD bracket. Figure 3-17. ODD Module Table 3-6. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type ODD Bracket Disassembly M2*2.5 4. Remove the ODD bracket. Figure 3-18. ODD Bracket 3-17...
Page 102
5. Pry the ODD bezel off the ODD module. Figure 3-19. ODD Bezel 3-18...
Main Unit Disassembly Process Main Unit Disassembly Flowchart Top Case Click Pad Bracket Keyboard Battery Power Switch Board Card Reader LCD Module Touch Pad Cables from MB Main Board Thermal Module Bluetooth Speaker DC-in Bracket DC-in Connector Figure 3-20. Main Unit DIsassembly Flowchart Table 3-7.
Removing the Top Case 1. Remove the 11 screws in the Bottom case. Figure 3-21. Screws on Bottom Case Table 3-8. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Bottom Case Disassembly M2*6 (red callout) M2*3 Ni (green callout) 2. Separate the top case from the bottom case. Figure 3-22.
Page 105
3. Turn the top case over. Lift up the top case, starting from the top edge. Figure 3-23. Top Case 4. Disconnect the cable from the top case to Mainboard (FFC). a. Unlock the FFC b. Disconnect the cable. Figure 3-24. Touchpad FFC & Keyboard FFC 3-21...
Page 106
5. Disconnect the FFC cable from touch pad. Figure 3-25. Touchpad module IMPORTANT: Take care of the dotted line box to tear down the touch pad cable from the Touch pad. 6. Romve 4 screws from touch pad. Figure 3-26. Touchpad module Table 3-9.
Page 107
7. Lift the clickpad bracket and remove. Figure 3-27. Touchpad module 8. Remove the touch pad. Figure 3-28. Touchpad module 3-23...
Page 108
9. Remove the AL foil on the keyboard. Figure 3-29. Keyboard module 10. Remove the 19 screws from the keyboard. Figure 3-30. Keyboard module Table 3-10. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Keyboard Disassembly M2*2 Ni(green callout) M2*3 Ni (red callout) 3-24...
Page 109
11. Remove the keyboard from the top case. Figure 3-31. Keyboard module 3-25...
Removing battery 1. Disconnect the battery cable from Mainboard. Figure 3-32. Battery cable 2. Lift the card reader cable from Mainboard,remove the SATA cable. Figure 3-33. Card reader SATA cable 3. Lift the card reader cable from card reader and then remove. Figure 3-34.
Page 111
4. Release the locking latch for the power switch cable. 5. Remove the FFC cable. Figure 3-35. Power switch Cable 6. Remove the screw from the battery and lift the power switch cable up from the battery. Figure 3-36. Battery module Table 3-11.
Removing the Power switch board 1. Use a flat plastic tool to unlock the corner of the power switch board. Figure 3-38. Power Switch Board IMPORTANT: Take care not to damage the FFC and power switch board during removal. 3-29...
Remove the cables from the Mainboard 1. Remove the HDD SATA cable from the Mainboard. Figure 3-41. HDD SATA cable 2. Disconnect the speaker cable from the Mainboard. Figure 3-42. Speaker cable 3. Disconnect the bluetooth cable from Mainboard. 3-31...
Page 116
Figure 3-43. Bluetooth cable 4. Disconnect the LVDS cable from the Mainboard. Figure 3-44. LVDS Cable Figure 3-45. LVDS Cable IMPORTANT: Take care not to damage the cable during removal. 3-32...
Removing the Mainboard 1. Remove the 7 screws from the Mainboard. Figure 3-47. Mainboard Table 3-14. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Mainboard Disassembly M2.5*5 Ni(green callout) M2*3 Ni (red callout) 2. Lift Mainboard from the bottom case and take it over. Figure 3-48.
Page 119
Figure 3-49. DC-in cable 4. Remove the DC-in bracket and then take it away. Figure 3-50. DC-in cable 5. Remove the DC-in connector and then take it away. Figure 3-51. DC-in cable 3-35...
Removing the Thermal module 1. Disconnect the cable of the fan from Mainboard. Figure 3-52. Thermal module 2. Remove 6 screws from the thermal module. Figure 3-53. Thermal module Table 3-15. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Thermal module Disassembly M2*3 3-36...
Page 121
3. Lift the thermal module and take it away. Figure 3-54. Thermal Module 3-37...
Removing the Speakers 1. Remove the speaker. Figure 3-56. Speakers 2. Remove the 2 screws from the speakers. Figure 3-57. Speakers Table 3-16. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Speakers Disassembly M2*2L+4.2MM Ni 3-39...
Page 124
3. Remove the speakers and cable. Figure 3-58. Speakers 3-40...
Removing the LCD Bezel 1. Disassembly sequence of LCD moudle, and then take off LCD bezel. Figure 3-60. LCD Bezel 2. Hold the edge firmly. Apply force with thumb in +Z direction, and with the other 4 fingers in –Y direction. Figure 3-61.
Page 127
Figure 3-62. LCD Bezel 4. Hold firmly the left edge of LCD module. Apply force with thumb in +Z direction, and with the other 4 fingers in +X direction. Figure 3-63. LCD Bezel 5. Put the edge of thumb nail into the gap of both hinge cap plastic parts, and move the thumb nail back and forth in the direction shown below to disengage the latch.
Page 128
Figure 3-64. LCD Bezel 6. Press center area of the bottom edge with left fingers, then push the edge of the hinge cap with thumb of the right hand in +Y direction, and apply force with index finger and middle finger in +Z direction.
Removing the LCD Panel 1. Remove the LCD panel. Figure 3-68. LCD Panel 2. Remove the 4 screws on the LCD panel. Figure 3-69. LCD Pane IMPORTANT: Do not remove the screws on the hinge&LCD cover. Table 3-18. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type...
Page 131
3. Lift the LCD panel out of the module. Figure 3-70. LCD Panel CAUTION: To avoid damage, make sure all cables near the hinge are free and clear to move. 4. Turn the LCD panel over, then disconnect the LVDS cable. Figure 3-71.
Removing the Camera Board 1. Disconnect the camera cable. Figure 3-72. Camera Board 2. Pry the camera board away from the module. Figure 3-73. Camera Board 3-48...
LCD Reassembly Procedure Replacing the Camera 1. Place the camera on the LCD cover. Figure 3-74. Camera 2. Connect the LVDS cable to the camera module. Figure 3-75. Camera 3-49...
Replacing the LCD Panel 1. Connect the LVDS cable to the panel and bond the mylar to secure the connector. Figure 3-76. LCD Panel 2. Place the LCD panel on the LCD cover. Figure 3-77. LCD Panel CAUTION: To avoid damage, make sure all cables near the hinge are free and clear to move. 3.
Replacing the Speakers 1. Place the left speaker assembly into the bottom case. Figure 3-82. Speakers 2. Secure 2 screws to the left speaker. Figure 3-83. Speakers Table 3-20. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Speaker Assembly M2*2L+4.2MM 3. Place the right speaker into the bottom case. 3-54...
Page 139
Figure 3-84. Speakers 4. Secure 2 screws to the right speaker. Figure 3-85. Speakers Table 3-21. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type. Speaker Assembly M2*2L+4.2MM 3-55...
Replacing the DC-IN cable 1. Place the DC-in cable into the bottom case,and place the cable in the cable clip. Figure 3-86. DC-in cable 2. Place the DC-in bracket on the DC-in connector. Figure 3-87. DC-in cable 3-56...
Replacing the Thermal Module IMPORTANT: Apply a suitable thermal grease and ensure all heat pads are in place before replacing the thermal module. The following thermal grease types are approved for use: N302 I-Connosseur Honeywell The following thermal pads are approved for use: ...
Page 142
2. Replace the 6 screws to secure the thermal module in place. Figure 3-89. Thermal Module Table 3-22. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type. Thermal module M2*3 Ni Disassembly 3. Connect the fan cable to the mainboard. Figure 3-90. Thermal Module 3-58...
Replacing the Mainboard 1. Slide the main board external connector edge in first to the bottom case, then lower into place. Figure 3-91. Main board 2. Replace 7 screws on the mainboard. Figure 3-92. Mainboard Table 3-23. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Mainboard Disassembly...
Replacing the LCD Module & Cables to Mainboard 1. Place the LCD module onto the bottom case. 2. Secure the 5 securing screws to the lower cover. Figure 3-93. LCD Module Table 3-24. Screws Step Size Quantity Screw Type LCD Module Assembly M2.5*5 3.
Page 145
Figure 3-94. LVDS Cable Figure 3-95. LVDS Cables 4. Connect the bluetooth cable to the main board. Figure 3-96. Bluetooth cable 3-61...
Page 146
5. Connect the Speaker cable to the mainboard. Figure 3-97. Speaker cable 6. Connect the HDD cable to the mainboard. Figure 3-98. HDD SATA Cable 3-62...
Replacing the Card reader 1. Place the card reader board in the bottom case. Figure 3-99. card reader 2. Secure the 2 screws on the card reader. Figure 3-100. Card reader Table 3-25. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Carder reader Assembly M2*3 3-63...
Replacing the Power Switch board&Battery 1. Secure the locking latch for the power switch board. Figure 3-101. Power switch board 2. Place the battery into the bottom case. Figure 3-102. Battery 3. Secure the screw on battery. Figure 3-103. Battery 3-64...
Page 149
Table 3-26. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Battery module Disassembly M2*3Ni 4. Connect the card reader cable on card reader. Figure 3-104. Card reader cable 5. Connect the card reader cable on main board. Figure 3-105. Card reader cable 3-65...
Page 150
6. Connect the power switch cable on the main board. Figure 3-106. Power switch cable 7. Connect the Battery cable to the main board. Figure 3-107. Battery cable 3-66...
Replacing the Keyboard 1. Place the keyboard on the top case as below picture shows. Figure 3-108. Keyboard 2. Secure the 17 screws on the keyboard. Figure 3-109. Keyboard module Table 3-27. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Keyboard Disassembly M2*2 Ni(green callout) M2*3 Ni (red callout) 3-67...
Page 152
3. Place the AL foil on the keyboard. Figure 3-110. Keyboard 4. Place the touch pad on the top case. Figure 3-111. Touch pad module 3-68...
Page 153
5. Replace the click pad bracket on the touch pad. Figure 3-112. Click pad bracket 6. Secrue the 4screws on the touch pad. Figure 3-113. Touch pad module Table 3-28. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Touchpad Disassembly M2*2 Ni(red callout) M2*3 Ni (green callout) 3-69...
Page 154
7. Connect the touch pad cable with the touch pad. Figure 3-114. Touch pad FFC cable 8. Connect the keyboard FFC cable on the main board. Figure 3-115. Keyboard FFC Cable 3-70...
Page 155
9. Connect the touch pad cable on the main board. Figure 3-116. Touch Pad Cable 10. Turn over the top case and install the top case to bottom case. Figure 3-117. Top case 3-71...
Page 156
11. Secure the 11 screws in the bottom case. Figure 3-118. Bottom case Table 3-29. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type Bottom Case Disassembly M2*6 (red callout) M2*3 Ni (green callout) 3-72...
Replacing the ODD Module 1. Replace the ODD bezel. Figure 3-119. ODD Module 2. Replace the ODD bracket. Figure 3-120. ODD Module 3-73...
Page 158
3. Replace the 2 screws of the ODD bracket. Figure 3-121. ODD Bracket Table 3-30. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type ODD Bracket Assembly M2*2.5 4. Push the ODD completely into the bay until flush with the bottom case. Figure 3-122. ODD Module 3-74...
Page 159
5. Replace the screw to secure the ODD module. Figure 3-123. ODD Module Table 3-31. Screw Step Screw Quantity Screw Type ODD Module Assembly M2*3 3-75...
Replacing the WLAN Module 1. Insert the WLAN module into the connector. Figure 3-124. WLAN Module 2. Replace the screw on the WLAN module. Figure 3-125. WLAN Module Table 3-32. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type WLAN Module Assembly M2*3 Ni 3-76...
Page 161
3. Connect the WLAN antenna cables. Figure 3-126. WLAN Module IMPORTANT: Note the position of the Main (black) and Auxiliary (white) connectors. 3-77...
Replacing the SSD Module 1. Insert the SSD module into the connector. Figure 3-127. SSD Module 2. Replace the screw on the SSD module. Figure 3-128. SSD Module Table 3-33. Screws Step Screw Quantity Screw Type SSD Module Assembly M2*3 Ni 3-78...
Replacing the DIMM Module 1. Slide the DIMM modules into the mainboard connectors. Figure 3-129. DIMM Module 2. Press down until the locking springs click into place. Figure 3-130. DIMM Module 3-79...
Replacing the HDD Module 1. Connect the HDD to the HDD SATA cable. Figure 3-131. HDD module 2. Hold the tab and slide the HDD firmly into the docking. Figure 3-132. HDD module 3-80...
Replacing the Door 1. Insert the HDD door edge flanges into the slots. Figure 3-133. HDD Door 2. Replace the 3 screws. Figure 3-134. HDD Door Screws 3-81...
NOTE: NOTE: The diagnostic tests are intended for Acer products only. Non-Acer products, prototype cards, or modified options can give false errors and invalid system responses. 1. Obtain as much detailed information as possible about the problem.
Power On Issues If the system does not power on, perform the following, one at a time, to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: Start Check AC/Battery Swap AC/Battery Power on Check Swap Daughter BD & Daughter BD &...
No Display Issues If the Display does not work, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: START LCD Moduel Power On? Power On Issue Replace LCD Panel/LCD Cable Ext.DDRRAM Module well Check Connection connected? Replace Ext DDRRAM Ext.
5. Connect an external monitor to the computer and switch between the internal display and the external display is by pressing Fn+F5. 6. If the POST or video appears on the external display only, refer to Failure. 7. Disconnect power and all external devices including port replicators or docking stations. Remove any memory cards and CD/DVD discs.
LCD Failure If the LCD fails, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: START Swap LCD Check Module/LCD LCD Module Panel Check LCD Reassemble/Re- Connector/ plug LCD Cable Cable Swap MB Figure 4-3. LCD Failure Troubleshooting...
Keyboard Failure If the Keyboard fails, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: START Keyboard FFC Connect it Well Well Connected? Keyboard Ok? Replace Keyboard Replace M/B Figure 4-4. Keyboard Failure Troubleshooting...
Touchpad Failure If the Touchpad fails, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: START Check MB T/P Reassemble the T/P FFC to MB Swap/Reassemble Check the T/P Pad or T/P Touchpad Swap MB Figure 4-5. Touchpad Failure Troubleshooting...
Internal & External Speaker Failure If internal Speakers fail, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: S TA R T S TA R T C heck M B R eassem ble the C heck I/O B oard R eassem ble I/O S P K cable S P K cable to M B...
Page 177
Click Mixer to verify that other audio applications are set to 50 and not muted. 6. Navigate to Start Sound. Confirm that Control Panel Hardware and Sound Speakers are selected as the default audio device (green check mark). NOTE: NOTE: If Speakers do not show, right-click on the Playback tab and select Show Disabled...
Microphone Failure If internal or external Microphones fail, perform the following, one at a time. Start Check Mic to Re-assemble Mic MB cable well cable to MB connected? Swap Mic module Check Mic module? and cable Replace M/B Figure 4-7. Microphone Failure 1.
USB Failure If the USB fails, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: S t a r t C h e c k U S B b o a r d t o R e - a s s e m b le U S B M B c a b le b o a r d c a b le t o M B S w a p U S B b o a r d...
WLAN Failure If the WLAN fails, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: S ta r t T u r n o n W L A N d e v ic e W L A N d e v ic e t u r n o n ? fr o m A c e r R in g D e v ic e C o n tr o l C h e c k W L A N a n te n n a w e ll...
Card Reader Failure If the Card Reader fails, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: S t a r t C h e c k C a r d R e a d e r R e - i n s t a l l C a r d d e v i c e O K ? R e a d e r d r i v e r...
Thermal Unit Failure If the Thermal Unit fails, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: Start Fan power wire well Check Connect connected? Replace thermal Fan OK? module Heatsink well Seat it well seated? CPU OK? Replace CPU Replace M/B...
HDMI and CRT Failure If the HDMI or CRT function fails, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: START Reinsert CRT/HDMI CRT/HDMI connection check Connector Check Drivers install OK Reinstall corrcet or not in Device driver manager Swap MB...
CD-ROM/DVD Failure If the CD-ROM/DVD function fail, perform the following, one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: START ODD Device with ODD/B Reassemble ODD connection check Device ODD/B with M/B Reassemble connection check ODD/B to M/B ODD/B function Swap ODD/B check Swap MB...
1. Remove power from the computer. 2. Visually check the components for damage. If any problems are found, replace the FRU. 3. Remove or disconnect all of the following devices: Non-Acer devices Printer, mouse, and other external devices ...
Post Codes The following are the InsydeH2O™ Functionality POST code tables. The components of the POST code table includes: SEC phase, PEI phase, DXE phase, BDS phase, CSM functions, S3 functions and ACPI functions. POST Code Range Table 4-2. POST Code Range Phase POST Code Range 0x01 - 0x0F...
Page 187
Table 4-3. SEC Phase POST Code Table (Continued) Functionality Name (Include\ Post Phase Description PostCode.h) Code SEC_SETUP_CAR_OK Cache as RAM test SEC_FORCE_MAX_RATIO* Tune CPU frequency ratio to maximum level SEC_GO_TO_SECSTARTUP Setup BIOS ROM cache SEC_GO_TO_PEICORE Enter Boot Firmware Volume * 3rd party relate functions – Platform dependence. Table 4-4.
Page 188
Table 4-4. PEI Phase POST Code Table Functionality Name (Include\ Post Phase Description PostCode.h) Code PEI_ENTER_RECOVERY_MODE Recovery device Initialization PEI_RECOVERY_MEDIA_FOUND Found Recovery image PEI_RECOVERY_MEDIA_NOT_FOUND Recovery image not found PEI_RECOVERY_LOAD_FILE_DONE Load Recovery Image completed PEI_RECOVERY_START_FLASH Start Flash BIOS with Recovery image PEI_ENTER_DXEIPL Loading BIOS image to RAM PEI_FINDING_DXE_CORE...
Page 189
Table 4-5. DXE Phase POST Code Table Functionality Name (Include\ Post Phase Description PostCode.h) Code DXE_SMART_TIMER_INIT 8259 Initialization DXE_PCRTC_INIT RTC Initialization DXE_SATA_INIT* SATA Controller earlyInitialization DXE_SMM_CONTROLER_INIT* Setup SMM Control service DXE_LEGACY_INTERRUPT* Setup Legacy Interrupt service DXE_RELOCATE_SMBASE Relocate SMM BASE DXE_FIRST_SMI SMI test DXE_VTD_INIT* VTD Initial...
Page 190
Table 4-6. BDS Phase POST Code Table Functionality Name (Include\ Post Phase Description PostCode.h) Code BDS_CONNECT_STD_ERR Error report device initialization BDS_CONNECT_USB_HC USB host controller initialization BDS_CONNECT_USB_BUS USB BUS driver initialization BDS_CONNECT_USB_DEVICE USB device driver initialization BDS_NO_CONSOLE_ACTION Console device initial fail BDS_DISPLAY_LOGO_SYSTEM_INFO Display logo or system information...
Page 191
Table 4-6. BDS Phase POST Code Table Functionality Name (Include\ Post Phase Description PostCode.h) Code BDS_LEGACY_BOOT_EVENT Last Chipset initial before boot to Legacy OS. BDS_ENTER_LEGACY_16_BOOT Ready to Boot Legacy OS. BDS_RECOVERY_START_FLASH Fast Recovery Start Flash. * 3rd party relate functions – Platform dependence. Table 4-7.
Page 192
Table 4-8. ACPI Function POST Table Functionality Name (Include\ Post Phase Description PostCode.h) Code ASL_ENTER_S1 Prepare to enter S1 ASL_ENTER_S3 Prepare to enter S3 ASL_ENTER_S4 Prepare to enter S4 ASL_ENTER_S5 Prepare to enter S5 ASL_WAKEUP_S1 System wakeup from S1 ASL_WAKEUP_S3 System wakeup from S3 ASL_WAKEUP_S4 System wakeup from S4...
Page 193
Table 4-10. InsydeH2ODDT Debugger POST Code Table (Continued) Functionality Name Post Code Description (Include\ PostCode.h) Used by Insyde debugger 0xD3 Debug port connect low speed device Used by Insyde debugger 0xD4 DDT Cable become low speed device Used by Insyde debugger 0xD5 DDT Cable Transmission Error (Get descriptor fail)
Clearing Password Check and BIOS Recovery This section provides procedures for: Clearing Passwords BIOS Recovery. This Machine has one Hardware Open Gap on the main board for clearing password check and one Hotkey for enabling BIOS Recovery. Clearing Password Check NOTE: NOTE: The following procedure is only for clearing BIOS Password (Supervisor Password and...
BIOS Recovery by Crisis Disk BIOS Recovery Boot Block BIOS Recovery Boot Block is a special block of BIOS, used to boot the system with minimum BIOS initialization. Users can enable this feature to restore the BIOS firmware once the previous BIOS flashing process failed.
Page 205
DIFFERENT part number code from those given in the FRU list of this printed Service Guide. Users MUST use the local FRU list provided by the regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and service of customer machines.
Top Case Assembly Figure 6-3. Top Case Assembly Exploded Diagram Table 6-3. Top Case Assembly Exploded Diagram Item Description Part Number UPPER CASE ASSY CLICKPAD MODULE 55.RY8N5.001 FFC - CLICK PAD TO MB 50.RY8N5.001 CLICKPAD POST SCREW M2*3L K B-ZN #1 NY 86.RY8N5.006 SCREW M2*2L (K,D=5) W-NI #1 NY 86.RY8N5.003...
Table 6-3. Top Case Assembly Exploded Diagram Item Description Part Number KEYBOARD CHICONY AF7S_A10B AF7S 60.RYKN5.001 103KS Black US International W/FRAME , FOIL , MYLAR Bottom Case Assembly Figure 6-4. Bottom Case Assembly Exploded Diagram Table 6-4. Bottom Case Assembly Exploded Diagram Item Description Part Number...
Page 211
Table 6-4. Bottom Case Assembly Exploded Diagram Item Description Part Number Battery SANYO ID:AP12A3i Li-Polymar 3S1P BT.00303.028 SANYO 3 cell 4850mAh Main COMMON for embedded type IO/CARD READER BOARD FOR TPM 55.RYKN5.003 BT 4.0 Foxconn Braodcom 20702 BH.21100.018 POWER BUTTON BOARD W/FFC FOR TPM 55.RYKN5.001 FRU (Field Replaceable Unit) List...
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 7 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 users repair their Acer Systems. For distributors, dealers, ASP or TPM, please refer the technical queries to a local Acer branch office. Acer Branch Offices and Regional Business Units may access our website.
Need help?
Do you have a question about the Aspire M3-581T and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers