vpr Matrix Desktops Frequently Asked Questions FT9150-PE
Q: What PC information should I have available if I need to call Customer Support?
A: The Customer Support Representative will ask for your PC’s model number and serial number. You can find this information on a sticker located on the side of your computer.

Q: My PC features Hyper-Threading technology, what is that?
A: Hyper-Threading is a new technology offered in high-end Pentium&174; 4 processors that allows the processor to act as two virtual processors. This allows the system to better utilize the processing power available because it can perform two independent processing tasks at the same time.

Q: My PC is RAID capable, what is that?
A: RAID stands for a "Redundant Array of Independent Disks." RAID provides even greater performance and reliability by integrating two or more hard drives. Your system is configured for RAID 0, or Striping, which maps data across a number of different hard drives to create one large drive. The data is stored on the physical drives in consecutive "stripes" of a predefined size. This means that different stripes of a single file can be read at the same time by each of the drives, which increases the speed of data transfer from the hard drives.

Q: How can I change the configuration of RAID in my system?
A: In addition to RAID Striping, two other configurations of RAID are available:

Mirroring, or RAID 1, keeps a complete copy of one drive on another drive. This means that a RAID 1 array of two hard drives has the storage capacity of only one drive. RAID 1 is the most reliable kind of array, because it always keeps a complete backup of your data. However, its performance is not as high as RAID 0.

Striping and Mirroring, or RAID 0+1, is a combination of RAID 0 and RAID 1, where the data is both striped (for speed) and mirrored (for reliability). The read and write performance is excellent, as long as a failed drive does not need to be rebuilt by the mirror process. The reliability is also excellent, because you still have a complete backup of your data on another drive. Striping and Mirroring requires the addition of two hard drives and a mounting kit. Contact your store technician about reconfiguring your system for RAID 0+1.

Q: Where do I get the connection information for my e-mail?
A: Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) will provide you with your connection settings, logon name and password.

Q: How do I play DVDs?
A: Simply insert your DVD and it will play automatically.

Q: How do I enter the system bios?
A: Turn the computer on (or reboot). Once you see the INTEL/VPR MATRIX splash screen, press the F1 key to enter the system bios.

Q: What is the best way to add my peripherals?
A: Peripherals such as cameras, scanners and printers should be added one at a time. Some peripherals should only be connected when the machine is powered off. Some Universal Serial Bus devices, including scanners and printers, require special installation. In all cases, refer to manufacturer instructions for details. Your local Best Buy store technician offers installation of peripherals; see store for details.

Q: What is the best way to install software programs and games?
A: Software programs and games should be installed one at a time. After carefully following installation instructions, reboot your PC to ensure that the operating system and all other programs are corruption free. Hardware and software installation is available where you bought your vpr Matrix PC, including participating Best Buy stores.

Q: My DVD-RW drive has a headphone jack and volume control, how do I use these?
A: Your PC is configured to provide the best sound quality through the premium discrete sound card featured in this system; see your Setup Poster for details on how to connect your speakers. The jack and volume control knob on the front of the DVD-RW is an alternative way of controlling the audio from this drive, however it disables other audio features. For instructions on enabling this function, please see the Customer Center at www.vprmatrix.com.

For further assistance, contact our Customer Support Group @ 1-800-332-4800