About ARCHOS 5 and 48 Internet Tablet



 

What to check first

Make sure your WiFi Internet connection is working...
 
Some of your applications will not work if you do not have a WiFi connection to the Internet. For example, the GPS application needs to have a WiFi connection the first time it is launched. Otherwise, it will not be able to validate its license. To connect to the Internet via WiFi, see page 8 of the printed Quick Start Guide.

Make sure your battery is completely charged...
 
Make sure that your battery is completely charged by connecting it to your computer (or by using a USB style wall charger) for 12 hours or until the green charging indicator light blinks. If using a USB wall charger, make sure it is rated 5 volts 1A (1000 mA).

Even better, you can purchase the Mini Dock accessory which will charge the battery quicker than with your computer and give you additional functions such as USB host and TV output.

Check the user manual...
 
There is a wealth of useful information in the full user manual. It can be read on the device by starting the ThinkFree™ application and then opening the folder 'Info' and selecting the manual in your language.

Make sure the USB setting is correct...
 
Make sure your USB setting is on Mobile Media Device (MTP). To check this, go to Menu > Settings > Device storage & USB Connection > USB connection mode. Your Windows computer must have Windows Media Player 10 (preferably 11 or higher) installed in order for the ARCHOS to be recognized by the computer. To verify it is connected, in Windows® double-click on My Computer and then open the device ARCHOS 5. You will then be able to see all of its files in the ‘internal hard drive.’

Make sure you have the latest firmware...
 
This is one of the most important things you should do. Firmware updates are important to install because they add new functionality, improve functionality, and/or fix bugs. If you can connect by WiFi to the Internet, then go to Menu > Settings > About Device > Firmware update to see if a newer one is proposed.
If you do not have a WiFi connection to the Internet, you can update your device by downloading the latest firmware to your computer and transferring it to your ARCHOS using the USB cable. See the ‘How to install a firmware’ on the download page of the ‘Support’ section.

Migrating to Android 'Donut' version 1.6

Why should I upgrade to ‘Donut’ 1.6?
 
Upgrading in general is always a good idea because there are improvements on current features, bug fixes, and the introduction of new features. For example, in this version there is a quick search feature which indexes the information that you choose from your device’s memory or hard drive. This means that by using the Search function (Menu > Search) you can very quickly find an application, a song, a web site you once visited, or someone in your contacts. A power control widget has been added also so that you can easily turn on and off the WiFi, Bluetooth, or GPS and dim the screen in order to save battery power. Finally, this version of Android takes into account portable devices with high-resolution screens, such as the ARCHOS 5 IT. Android was originally designed for smaller screens but now those constraints don’t exist anymore.

Will some of my Applications not work after the update?
 
All of the applications that are included with the ARCHOS and any of the ones you re-download and installed from the AppsLib will work as before.

Will migrating to ‘Donut’ 1.6 erase any of my files?
 
Any applications that you may have downloaded from the AppsLib will be deleted. Other than those, no files will be deleted. Therefore, you should note which ones you downloaded and any passwords that they need. Once the new ‘Donut’ 1.6 version of Android is installed, you can go to the Appslib and re-download and install those applications. You will also find that your settings such as the default WiFi access point and others will have been reset to their default values, so you will need to change those settings.

Will my GPS license or plug-ins be affected by updating to this new firmware?
 
No, they will remain intact. However, you will need to have WiFi access the first time you launch your GPS, so that the license can be revalidated. You will not have to enter any information or codes.

How do I use the new Search function?
 
When you select Menu > Search, where exactly is Android searching? You can set what information becomes indexed on your device for the searching to quickly locate what you are looking for.

To set which items get indexed for searching, select Menu > Settings > Search > Searchable items. The search can also be accessed from the search widget on the home screen or a long press on the menu icon.

Where is the power control widget?
 
The handy Power Control widget is placed on your home screen by selecting Menu > add > Widgets > Power control. It can be moved to any of the three home screen panels by holding down on it for two seconds, at which point it will increase in size slightly, and can then be moved and placed where you want it.

Use this control to save battery power by quickly activating/de-activating the WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS as well as adjust the screen brightness.

Can I go back to version 1.4.25 (Android "Cupcake" version 1.5) afterwards if I want to?
 
No, this is not possible.

Will this version increase the battery life of my device?
 
By using the power control widget wisely, you will be able to increase the duration of a charged device. Dimming the screen when ambient light is not too strong is especially helpful.

What are the applications that come with this new version?
 
This version brings the power control widget and the indexed searching. There is also a newer version of the office documents reader ThinkFree. It also includes the standard applications that were in the previous version (Quickpedia, Twidroid, eBuddy, etc.) Of course you can go to the AppsLib to find hundreds of other applications as well.

Will this give me access to purchasable applications on the Appslib?
 
A software update is independent of the contents of the AppsLib. ARCHOS is currently working on the retail store section of the AppsLib and purchasable applications should be available soon.

What should I do if an application displays incorrectly?
 
If this is the case, then the developer of the application did not follow the proper protocols for Android application development. If would be helpful to the developer to send off a message informing him/her of this as they may not be aware. They usually include contact information within their application somewhere.

Will the AppsLib have the same applications as before?
 
Yes. As well as the new applications that get added by the day.

WiFi

How can I ‘manage’ or change the settings of my WiFi modem/router?
 
There are typically two ways to manager your WiFi modem/router, via a web browser like Internet Explorer or Firefox, or via software that was supplied with your WiFi modem/router. The latter option is preferable. If you lost the CD that came with your WiFi modem/router, go the manufacturer’s web site were you can most likely download the software for your specific device. To manager your WiFi access with a web browser (you must use the computer that has a physical wired connection to the router). You will type in the IP address in the address bar of your browser. The address will be found in your router’s documentation. Typical addresses are: 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.123.254 or 192.168.2.1. Thus, instead of typing www.something.com, you will type 192.168.1.1. You will also need the user name and password (which should also be in the documentation). Be extremely careful when changing settings as this could make your WiFi modem/router work incorrectly or not at all.

How do I know if my WiFi access point can be recognized by the ARCHOS?
 
To make sure that the ARCHOS can recognize the presence of the WiFi access point, go to Menu > Settings > Wireless controls > WiFi settings and then see what is listed under the section “Wi-Fi Networks”. One or several WiFi access points should be listed.

If the access point you want to connect to is not listed, then it might be
• Because the router/modem is not switched on.
• Because the router/modem access point is set to not broadcast its identity (even though it is available for use). Ask the manager of the WiFi modem/router to temporarily enable the identity (SSID) broadcasting. To do so, one would have to go into the settings of the router/modem either by using the web browser or a special application program that came with the router/modem. Search for a setting that has a name something like “Hide SSID” and make sure it is off. Once this is done, the ARCHOS should recognize the access point and be able to connect to it. The ARCHOS just needs to connect once and it will “know” this access point – even when it is later “hidden”. The WiFi router/modem can then be set back to “Hidden SSID”. In general, hiding the SSID of your modem/router is ineffective as a security measure so you might as well just leave it on.
• Because the router/modem is set to use only WiFi-A or WiFi-N. Check the settings of the WiFi modem/router make sure that WiFi-B is enabled. It may also be listed as something like “enable 2.4 GHz range”.

How do I know what kind of security system my WiFi access point has?
 
When you see your WiFi access point in the list of recognized access points (Menu > Settings > Wireless controls > WiFi settings > WiFi networks), underneath the name of the WiFi point, you will see either “Open network” (no security system – thus no password needed), “Secured with WPA” (a good quality security system that requires a password or a pass-phrase), or “Secured with WEP” (a low quality security system that requires a password of exactly 10 or 26 characters consisting of 0-9 and A-F).

Is it possible to update my WiFi modem/router?
 
Yes. It is highly recommended that you check to see if this can be done for your WiFi modem/router. Sometimes bugs are found and the manufacturer makes available software updates on its web site to fix these bugs and improve performance.

I have problems making a WiFi connection. What can I do?
 
First, update your ARCHOS to the latest firmware version. Then try connecting again after it is updated.

- Check the functioning of your Wifi router/modem by using another Wifi device (ex: friend’s laptop) to verify that your router/modem is functioning properly.

- Check your WiFi router/modem documentation to see if it has a pairing button that needs to be pressed. Some modems have such a button that must be pressed the very first time you try to make a WiFi connection with a new device.

- Make sure that you are relatively close to the modem/router to make your first connection. Then later you can test to see how far away you can make a connection.

- Try connecting to a friend's WiFi access point to see if reacts the same way. If it connects, then you know that you'll have to set your WiFi router/modem with similar parameters.

- Turn off the Wifi then turn it back on again. Go to Menu > Settings > Wireless controls and uncheck Wi-Fi. Wait until the small text below “Wifi” says “Turn on Wi-Fi” and then check it. Your WiFi access point should show up as an item below this.

-If you have to enter a password (an security code of type WEP or WPA) be very careful that you do not confuse a 1 and I (one and letter “I”), a 0 and O (zero and letter “O”), or U and V. These are common mistakes.

- When entering a security code for your WiFi access, check the box “Show password” which will allow you to see exactly what you are typing in. This will avoid any mistakes.

My ARCHOS can recognize the WiFi access point, but it won’t connect to it. What can I do?
 
Make sure that when you enter your password that you use capital letters when required. The password “happydogs” will not work if the password is “HappyDogs”.

Some access points use what is known as MAC filtering. That means, the WiFi access point has a list of access numbers (every hardware device has a unique MAC number) which are the only ones allowed to access to the WiFi point. The person managing the WiFi modem/router should shut off this MAC filtering system to see if this solves the problem. It is recommended to shut off MAC filtering in general as this is now known to be an outdated and ineffective system for WiFi security.

Try temporarily shutting off the encryption system of your WiFi router/modem to see if the problem has to do with the encryption system you are using. The preferred encryption system is the WPA2.

If your WiFi router is set to WEP encryption, you should change it to WPA. The WEP encryption is known to be a weak security standard. If you do not know how to change your WiFi router/modem to WPA, make sure that when you enter your WEP security code that it consists ONLY of the numbers 0-9 and the letters A-F. Be careful not to confuse the number 0 and the letter D. Your WEP security code will have either 10 or 26 characters, there is no other possibility. In the case that the WEP security code is a password or pass-phrase, you will need to convert the password/pass-phrase into its equivalent form of 0-9 and A-F (also known as Hexidecimal numbering). You can use the WEP password to Hexidecimal converter at http://www.powerdog.com/wepkey.cgi to convert the password/pass-phrase. Use this given string of characters as your password.

If the WPA encryption setup on your WiFi router is a pass-phrase type (ex: “All good dogs listen to their master”, then it may be too long. Try setting your WiFi router/modem to a pass phrase with 12 or less letters, like “happydogtime”

If you are using an Apple airport express WiFi access point, try converting the security pass-phrase into its equivalent in 0 to 9, and A to F (Hexidecimal numbering) format using the tool at http://www.corecoding.com/utilities/wep2hex.php . Enter this hexidecimal equivalence into the ARCHOS when the pass-phrase is asked (ex: 63757274697342726f64657236373839)

If your WiFi access point requires a pass-phrase and it has WEP security,If the WiFi router/modem is set up at the workplace, it may be using the WPA-EAP security protocol. This specialized WPA protocol is not compatible with the ARCHOS.

Some WiFi modem/routers are known to have problems with their internal power management systems (certain models from Netgear and Linksys). Try disabling (probably in the advanced configuration settings) the power management WME/WMM setting.

The ARCHOS connects the WiFi access point but an IP address doesn’t get assigned to my ARCHOS. What can I do?
 
Check the web site of your WiFi router/modem’s manufacturer. See if they have a software update for your specific WiFi router/modem. You can also try setting your WiFi router/modem to use only static IP addresses. That is, use only a fixed address such as 192.168.1.3. You would then need to enter this same address in the connection parameters on the ARCHOS when you connect to the access point.

I can connect to my WiFi access point but then the connection gets broken a couple minutes later. What can I do?
 
Try setting your WiFi modem/router to disable automatic channel selection. That is, set it to one specific channel, such as 11. You can also try setting the encryption method to “AES only” or “TKIP only”. This may fix the problem. Many WiFi modem/routers use AES/TKIP as the default setting.

My WiFi does not connect automatically anymore, what should I do?
 
Go to Menu > Settings > Wireless controls and uncheck Wi-Fi. Wait until the text below “Wifi” says “Turn on Wi-Fi” and then check it. If the ARCHOS does not refind your WiFi access point, you’ll have to go to the section “WiFi networks” below it, and select the network you want to connect to.

I can connect to my WiFi access point but some websites don’t work properly. What can I do?
 
If you have ever adjusted the firewall, routing, or DNS settings of your Wifi modem/router, these could have effects on certain web sites. Reset the firewall settings of your modem/router to its default settings to see if the trouble websites will now work.

Troubleshooting

I cannot pair my telephone to my ARCHOS. My telephone is running Windows Mobile 6.
 
You should activate the Bluetooth™ PAN and then retry the pairing. To activate the Bluetooth™ PAN on your telephone, go to Start > Accessories > Internet sharing and then select Bluetooth PAN as the PC connection type.

My device says "checking disk..." and that Media Center features are not available during USB connection. What should I do?
 
You must wait while Android™ finishes its operation. This should take no longer than three minutes. Watch in the notification bar on top to see when the “checking disk” icon disappears.

The ARCHOS will not let me calibrate the Accelerometer. It says, "Wait for device to be ready."
 
If this happens, just tap on back button on the status bar, on the top right.

My device “froze”. What do I do? How do I prevent that?
 
If your device freezes, press and hold the power button for 15 seconds. This will shut off the device. Restart as normal. To prevent this, make sure you are running the latest version of the firmware. Check by going to Menu > Settings > About Device > Firmware Update.

After a few seconds, my screen goes black. What’s wrong?
 
Nothing is wrong. This happens automatically to save power. Press and hold the on/off button again. You can change the time that it automatically goes into this mode (no user interaction) by going to Menu > Settings > sound and display > Screen timeout.

My device seems to be unstable (stops suddenly, often gives error messages, or fails to run an application). What can I do?
 
First make sure that your ARCHOS is running the latest firmware version (see the ‘Download’ section of ‘Support’). If you are already running the latest firmware, it can be very helpful to reset the device configurations. Do this by going to Menu > Settings > About device > Repair and formatting tools > Delete device configuration and installed applications. This will also erase the additional applications that you have downloaded from the Appslib to your device. You can of course re-download the applications afterwards.

I cannot turn on my device, what should I do?
 
Make sure the battery is fully charged. Connect it to a running computer with the USB cable and allow it to charge until the battery light on the side of the device blinks (this could take several hours). If the device does not turn on after a full charge, press the reset button inside the pinhole (back side for the thin flash memory devices or the bottom for the hard drive devices) by delicately inserting a paper clip. You will feel a slight button press. Now restart as usual.

I cannot update the firmware because I do not have a WiFi connection. What can I do?
 
You can update by downloading the latest firmware to your computer and transferring it to your ARCHOS using the USB cable. See the ‘How to install a firmware’ on the download page of the ‘Support’ section.

Some of my applications freeze the device or crash and I get an error message. What can I do about this?
 
Reboot your device and run the program again to see if some data corruption wasn’t the cause of the failure. Applications are created by various individuals and organizations. You can contact the author of the application to inform him/her of any malfunctions.

My device is frozen and will not respond, what can I do?
 
First try pressing the home button on the top left. If the device is still frozen and does not respond, hold down on the on/off button for 15 seconds. This will shut off the device. Restart it as normal. Only if that does not shut off the device should you press the reset button inside the pinhole (back side for the thin flash memory devices or the bottom for the hard drive devices) by delicately inserting a paper clip. You will feel a slight button press.

GPS - 5IT only

How do I buy and install the GPS? New maps? Cities in photo-realistic view?
 
The DVD included with your ARCHOS 5 Internet Tablet lets you install maps and use them during the trial period*. You need to install the trial version before buying the license.

Before buying the license to use the maps indefinitely, you need to update the GPS application, and then you can purchase them either on-line** with your computer or directly from your ARCHOS device itself.

To update the GPS (before the purchase of maps or the city photo-views) go to the ARCHOS web site (www.archos.com) and go into your user account (the one you created when you registered your device) and select,
• "Manage Products" (Choose the ARCHOS 5 Internet Tablet if you have more than one product registered)
• Scroll down to "GPS" and then click on "More"
• In the section "GPS Software Update" click on "Show"
• Follow the instructions for updating both the application and its components

Once the GPS software is updated, you can buy the license while in your user account* and then on your ARCHOS, select “Activate” when the GPS application starts up.
You can also purchase the license from your ARCHOS device itself by selecting “Purchase” when the GPS application starts up.

*Make sure that you can connect the ARCHOS to the Internet by WiFi. A one-time internet WiFi connection is needed when you run the GPS application for the first time.
**for North America, purchase of maps currently only available via the ARCHOS itself.

Can I use the GPS receiver on Google Maps™, or can I use it to locate myself if I do not purchase the ARCHOS maps and software?
 
The Google Maps™ application cannot be used. Check the Appslib for other applications that freely take advantage of the GPS receiver. You can of course, use the maps.google.com web site.

Will the GPS work anywhere in the world even without WiFi?
 
Yes. GPS and WiFi are two different systems which are not dependant on each other. You will need to have an application on your ARCHOS, such as the N-Drive Navigation application to use the GPS module’s location data (you will however need to make a one-time WiFi Internet connection to purchase or activate a map license).

When you install the GPS Software it mentions Phone, what is this?
 
This is due to the fact that the same software is used on Android™ based telephone devices with GPS. You can safely disregard this information.

Can I purchase GPS maps directly from the NDrive web site?
 
No. You will need to go into your ARCHOS user account and purchase them there. The GPS application was developped especially for ARCHOS and thus does accept codes purchased at the NDrive web site.

In the GPS settings, I can select Traffic Updates. How do I receive these?
 
This functionality is not yet implemented.

I’m having problems installing the GPS software. What can I do?
 
Check the other FAQs and as well check the following three items:
1)That you have the Service Pack 3 update on your PC if you are running Windows XP.
2)That you have the latest Microsoft .net framework on your PC (downloadable here).
3) Make sure that you can connect the ARCHOS to the Internet by WiFi. A one-time internet WiFi connection is needed when you run the GPS application for the first time.

Periodically, my GPS brings up a window saying “HTTP Connection Error” – what does this mean?
 
Certain actions in the GPS require a connection to the Internet (such as activating a newly purchased map) and will try to connect via the WiFi to the Ndrive/BLOM servers to grant your device permission to use the maps. If you are not in range of a WiFi spot, you will get this error. If you get this message while driving, pull off the road to stop at a safe place and then make sure the option Menu > Settings > Traffic options > Traffic is set to OFF.

I get the message “Error reading wizard configuration file” when I run the DVD. What should I do?
 
There is an updated version of the DVD installer file that takes into account 64-bit versions of Windows (the reason why you got the error) which will allow you to install the maps without problem. Using Windows Explorer, type in "ftp://support.archos.com/NDrive Update". This will bring you to a folder where you have the updated DVD installer program. The instructions are in the readme file as well as below.

The file in this folder is for users experiencing issues (often on 64-bit Windows) installing the GPS application on their ARCHOS 5 IT with the provided DVD.
1) Download the file to your computer.
2) Unzip the file.
3) Copy the entire contents of the GPS DVD into a new folder on your PC.
4) Replace the _NDriveInstaller.exe in the created folder with the file you just downloaded and unzipped (confirm "yes" when Windows asks if you want to replace the file).
5) Open the folder, double-click the _NDriveInstaller.exe, and follow the instructions.

How do I install the GPS with a 64-bit version of Windows?
 
There is an updated version of the DVD installer file that takes into account 64-bit versions of Windows which will allow you to install the maps without problem. Using Windows Explorer, type in ftp://support.archos.com/NDrive Update. This will bring you to a folder where you have the updated DVD installer program. The instructions are in the readme file as well as below.

The file in this folder is for users experiencing issues (often on 64-bit Windows) installing the GPS application on their ARCHOS 5 IT with the provided DVD.
1) Download the file to your computer.
2) Unzip the file.
3) Copy the entire contents of the GPS DVD into a new folder on your PC.
4) Replace the _NDriveInstaller.exe in the created folder with the file you just downloaded and unzipped (confirm "yes" when Windows asks if you want to replace the file).
5) Open the folder, double-click the _NDriveInstaller.exe, and follow the instructions.

When I started my GPS, it indicated I was in a totally different place than I actually am. Why is that and how do I fix it?
 
This is because the ARCHOS unit’s GPS hasn’t yet made a ‘fix’ on the satellites. You will need to wait until the device gets a ‘fix’ on your location. You will see a message on the bottom of the screen indicating this. This could take anywhere from 20 seconds to 3 minutes depending on where you are.

Android User Interface and applications

Can I view/edit a Microsoft® Word, Excel®, Powerpoint® document? How?
 
Can I view/edit a Microsoft® Word, Excel®, Powerpoint® document? How? Yes. The ARCHOS 5 comes with the ThinkFree Mobile Office Suite application that will allow you to read Microsoft® Word, Powerpoint®, and Excel® documents (some of the advanced features in these documents will not be seen however). The makers of ThinkFree are planning to update this application in the near future to be able to edit these document types as well. Puis-je lire / modifier un document Microsoft® Word, Excel®, Powerpoint® ? Comment faire ? Oui. L'ARCHOS 5 est livré avec l’application gratuite ThinkFree Mobile Office Suite qui vous permettra d'ouvrir des fichiers Microsoft® Word, Powerpoint®, et Excel® (une partie des fonctionnalités avancées dans ces documents ne sera cependant pas disponible). Une mise à jour par les éditeurs de ThinkFree permettra bientôt d'éditer ces fichiers.

I no longer have the standard applications that come with the ARCHOS. How can I get them?
 
They may be still on your device but not installed. Run the installation wizard. Go to Menu > Settings > About device > repair and formatting tools > startup wizard. If the applications are there, they will get installed.

When installing a new application, the device tells me it is replacing something else. What is it replacing and why?
 
It is replacing the old version of that application with the new one you are currently installing. This is the same behavior as on a desktop PC.

How do I change my desktop wallpaper?
 
Go to Menu > Wallpaper, then choose one of the preset wallpapers or one of your own photos. Or, while you are browsing through your photos with the ARCHOS photo browser, select menu > Set as wallpaper.

Can I import my Outlook® Contacts from my computer to the ARCHOS?
 
Currently this is not possible.

Where can I download the Appslib application?
 
You can download it here. x{9679} Connect your ARCHOS to your computer x{9679} Save the Appslib.apk file onto your PC's hard drive. If the file extension is NOT "apk", but is "zip" instead, change it to "apk". x{9679} Transfer the Appslib.apk file to the [DOWNLOAD] folder on your ARCHOS 5. x{9679} Unplug your ARCHOS 5. x{9679} Open the File Manager on the ARCHOS 5, go into the Download folder, and tap twice on the Appslib.apk file that you will find there to start the installation. x{9679} Follow the on-screen instruction to install this newer version of the Appslib application x{9679} At the end of the installation, select: "Open".

How do I uninstall an application?
 
Go to Menu > Settings > Applications > Manage applications, then tap on the application to remove and select 'Uninstall.'

What is Android™? What does it do?
 
Android™ is the name given to the applications platform created by Google™ for mobile devices. This software platform allows mobile devices to run a multitude of applications.

Can I create an application for my device?
 
If you understand the basics of programming and are patient, go to http://developer.android.com/index.html to learn more.

I can’t get my ARCHOS 5 to connect to the Internet via my 3G Bluetooth® telephone. What can I do?
 
See the section Tethering (Using your portable phone as a modem) for an explanation of what to do.

How do I download applications?
 
Tap on the icon AppsLib found in the applications tab to see a list of available applications to download.

Can I download any Android™ application?
 
Be aware that some Android applications (other than the ones in the AppsLib) require certain hardware functions that are not on the ARCHOS 5 device and thus may behave strangely or display on half the screen or portrait mode only. A large number of fully compatible applications can be downloaded and installed directly on the ARCHOS (icon on the home screen) from the AppsLib icon.

How do I get access to Yahoo mail?
 
Yahoo! Mail is available for free as a web-based e-mail program. To use the Android Email program with your Yahoo! Mail account, you need to purchase the mail plus product from Yahoo which allows POP3 (what the mail program needs) capabilities.

How do I place an application or widget on my home screen?
 
To place an application, open the applications tab to first get to the application. Next, hold down on the icon until it increases in size. It is at this time that you can drag it to any of the home screen panels. Make sure you drop it where there is enough space for an icon.

Battery / Power

The battery of my ARCHOS 5 IT is completely drained and the device will not charge.
 
If the battery is completely drained, connect it to the USB and to your computer, but do not attempt to start the unit with the power on/off button. When the unit gets enough power it will start by itself (this could take a few hours). Even when started, do not use it until it is fully charged.

Is it possible to charge the ARCHOS 5 with a standard USB power adapter?
 
Yes. There are commercially available charger/adapters that plug into a wall outlet or your car cigarette lighter which have a USB port which will charge your device. Only purchase ones from a reputable brand. Some do not charge as well as others.

My battery runs out very quickly, what can I do?
 
The Android™ Mobile Technology Platform was conceived such that the device can be woken up from suspend triggered from applications (ex: check emails every 10mn). As a consequence if you have network applications running in the background (that are auto launched at boot) that are network hungry (ex: checking the weather every 2 minutes) this will have an impact on the battery drain. If you are not using the WiFi, shut it off. Same for the Bluetooth®. A screen set to the brightest also drains energy from the device. Set your device as well to have its screen go off after 2 minutes of non-use. These things will help your battery conserve energy.

Internet

Is it possible to access the Internet without a WiFi connection?
 
Yes, through a process known as tethering. - You'll need to have a portable telephone (ideally 3G) that can connect to the internet. You'll need to have a data plan with an Internet option. Your data plan must also include Internet access. Verify that you can connect to the Internet with it. This may mean that your telecom operator will add on extra charges. - To connect the ARCHOS 5 Internet Tablet to a telephone, you'll have to indicate the correct APN (Access Point Name) of the telecom provider. This is the name the telephone uses to connect to the Internet. You can get this information from your telecom company. - If you have connected multiple telephones by Bluetooth® make sure you choose the right telephone before activating the connection.

Some websites automatically direct me to their mobile device web page, how do I access the normal web page?
 
Typically, most mobile web pages have a link on the bottom of the page saying, "Go to the Desktop version" or something similar. It is possible as well to set your ARCHOS such that it will always been seen by websites as a ‘desktop’ computer. In this case however, not all website’s videos will play, such as YouTube™. Set this in the Browser by going to Menu > More > Settings > Desktop User Agent.

How can I enter addresses directly into my web browser?
 
While in the browser, select Menu > Go.

How can I go back to another application while I am browsing the web?
 
Press and hold down on the 'Home' icon in the top left of the screen. It will then allow you to choose a different open application to use.

Can I have multiple windows or tabs like on desktop computer web browsers?
 
Yes. Press on Menu then select New Window. To change between windows, select Menu then Window.

Are the devices Adobe Flash™ compatible?
 
Yes, the ARCHOS supports the FLV flash container and can play such video files. Although not supported by the Android™ web browser, the ARCHOS 5 Internet Tablets will play Flash™ video (type .flv) from most websites (it will typically do so through the mobile version of the website). The ARCHOS will play .swf (vectorial Flash™) files with its FlashLite™ player. Put your .SWF files in the folder ‘Flash’ and run them via the file browser.

Why do I get a blue box icon with a ? in it or a message at some web sites that say I don’t have or I need to update to the latest Adobe Flash™ Player?
 
This icon is shown on websites that have Adobe Flash™ content. The Android™ browser does not yet support Adobe Flash™. For most web sites however, the ARCHOS will play .FLV video files by redirecting them to the ARCHOS multimedia player and play them in full screen. Flash™ files of type .swf need to be saved first in order to be played.

Hardware & Connections

Can I attach a keyboard to the tiny USB connector on the ARCHOS?
 
No. This connector is only for the device to be connected to a PC and the PC then controls what gets transferred to or from the ARCHOS.

I have connected my unit to my PC in the “MSC” mode, but I cannot see it on my computer.
 
This mode is only for Linux computers which will recognize a plugged-in ARCHOS Internet Tablet as an external hard drive. For advanced Windows® users, it is possible to obtain drivers (use at your own risk - NOT supported by ARCHOS tech support team) from the Internet that will allow you to mount Ext3 type partitions as an external hard drive on your Windows® computer.

What file system does the ARCHOS use? FAT32 or NTFS?
 
What file system does the ARCHOS use? FAT32 or NTFS? The ARCHOS Internet Tablets use the Linux type Ext3 file system which is more robust than FAT32 system and allows the product to store files larger than 4GB.

Can I listen to music with Bluetooth®-enabled headphones or speakers?
 
Yes. Go to Menu > Settings > Wireless Controls > Bluetooth® and check this item to turn it on (while on, your device will consume more power and diminish the battery power a bit quicker). Then, in the setting below this, ‘Bluetooth® settings’, scan for devices (make sure your Bluetooth® headphones are on) and then select your headphones. Your Bluetooth® headphones or speakers must respect the A2DP protocol.

What type of Bluetooth® peripherals can I use with the ARCHOS 5?
 
You can use a Bluetooth® keyboard, mouse, headphones/speaker, or a telephone.

I open the web browser and get a message: “no network connection”. What do I do?
 
This means there is no Wi-Fi connection. Make sure that you are in a WiFi zone and that the WiFi in your settings (Menu > Settings > Wireless Controls > WiFi) is checked. If the device does not make an automatic connection with the WiFi hot spot, select (Menu > Settings > Wireless controls > Wi-Fi settings) to see a list of the potentially usable WiFi networks.

Can I exchange files between my PC and the ARCHOS via the WiFi and Bluetooth®?
 
Android™ does not yet support Bluetooth® file transfers. You can exchange files via the WiFi by connecting to the same network as your PC. Use the File Manager application and then select Network.

What do the options MSC and MTP in the USB Connection mode do for me?
 
These are the protocols for how it connects to a computer. MSC (Mass Storage Class) is the most common USB connection method. MTP (Media Transport Protocol) is an intelligent transport system for regular files and Windows Media Player® files. If you are using Windows®, you should connect in MTP mode. If you are using Linux, then you should connect in MSC mode.

When I calibrate the Accelerometer, should I lay the device on its back, or stand it vertically?
 
Lay it down on its back.

How does the FM transmitter work ?
 
When your device is powered by the cigarette lighter cable of the Car Mount kit, your ARCHOS will be able to transmit its sound (usually music) to a specific frequency on nearby radios (the radio of your car). You can set the frequency of the device’s transmitter (the same frequency you will tune your car radio to) by going to Menu > Settings > Sound & Display > FM Transmitter. Then, when you are playing music, go to Menu > Settings > Sound > FM Transmitter and turn it on. Make sure the power cable from the car kit is plugged into the ARCHOS.

I am having trouble with the accuracy of the touch-screen, how can I fix this?
 
You can calibrate the touch screen by going to Menu > Settings > Sound & Display > Touch screen calibration.

I tried using the FM transmitter in my car but it doesn’t work. What’s wrong?
 
The FM transmitter requires that the device be powered with the Car Mount kit’s charger.

The screen keeps changing its orientation. What’s wrong?
 
Some devices are more sensitive to movements than others and will change orientation with slighter movements. Recalibrate this going to Menu > Sound & Display > Accelerometer Calibration. Make sure your device is laying on its back when you do this. You can also uncheck the option ‘orientation’ to stop it from changing.

What type of memory card and what maximum size can I use in my ARCHOS?
 
Use MicroSD or MicroSDHC cards. Only the flash memory based devices have a Micro-SD slot on the bottom.

Video / Photo / Music

How can I add shortcuts for my favorite movies and albums onto the home screen?
 
Go into the music or video browser and highlight an album or video, then select Menu > set bookmark. The next time you tap on the video or Music icon, your item will appear there instantly and you can select it. If you quit in the middle of a song or video, that item will also be available next time you tap on the Music or Video icon.

How can I connect my digital camera to the ARCHOS?
 
You will need an accessory that has a regular USB port built into it. This USB port will allow you to plug your camera’s usual USB into the ARCHOS accessory. The following accessories have a USB port: Mini Dock, Battery Dock, HDMI Mini Dock, DVR Station.

Can I stream HD video from my computer to my ARCHOS?
 
Yes.

Is there a custom sound equalizer (EQ) feature?
 
Yes. Open up the ARCHOS music player and select Menu > Settings > Sound. The headphones must be plugged in for you to have access. Otherwise, the control icons will be grayed out.

When I watch a movie and use a Bluetooth™ headset/speakers, the sound is out of sync with the image, why?
 
Bluetooth™ was initially created to be used with cell phones and was later updated for listening to music. The bandwidth however is too low to be used for video purposes.

I cannot delete or rename files while in the media applications video, music, photo, or the file manager.
 
Register or re-register you product via a WiFi connection. Go to Menu > Settings > About device > Repair and formatting tools > Start up wizard and check it. Then restart the device.

Why can’t I play Hulu?
 
Hulu requires an Adobe Flash™ player in the web browser for this to work. Currently, Android’s web browser does not support Adobe Flash™ content even though the ARCHOS itself is fully capable of playing FLV formatted video files. Other web sites such as YouTube will play video as it is channelled from the mobile web site to the ARCHOS video player.

Accessories

Are last year’s (ARCHOS 5 and 7 Internet Media Tablets) accessories compatible with the new Android™ based ARCHOS 5 devices?
 
Yes, all but the FM Remote and the TV Snap-on.

What are the plug-ins available for my device? Where can I find them and install them?
 
There are two plug-ins available. The first one is free upon registering your device. It gives you H.264 video playback support, AAC audio playback support, FM Radio player, and the Web Radio & TV application. The second plug-in must be purchased from the ARCHOS web site (or from your device via the Media Club: Archos Store). This plug-in gives WMV-HD and MPEG-2/VOB video playback support and AC3 Audio playback support.

Do you need to buy the FM remote to listen to the radio?
 
No. The ARCHOS Internet tablets running Android™ have FM radios built into them.

DVR Station

Can I plug a mouse, keyboard, or other USB devices into the USB port of the DVR Station?
 
Yes, a standard keyboard or mouse can be connected to the DVR Station. The keyboard however is based on the American key layout and thus keyboards from other countries will not always have the same keyboard correspondencies.

How can I get the TV Program Guide?
 
The TV program guide is only available in European countries. US, Canada, and other countries need to program television recordings manually in the TV Scheduler.

General

How can I connect my digital camera to the ARCHOS?
 
You will need an accessory that has a regular USB port built into it. This USB port will allow you to plug your camera’s usual USB into the ARCHOS accessory. The following accessories have a USB port: Mini Dock, Battery Dock, HDMI Mini Dock, DVR Station.

How can I restore my device to the original factory state?
 
Go to Menu > Settings > About device > repair and formatting tools > Default Configuration. This will delete all the data on your device. You will see other data cleaning options as well which do not erase your personal data.

How can I receive TV on my ARCHOS?
 
You can watch selected video channels with the Web TV function. Choose Media Club > Web TV. This functions anywhere on the planet that has a WiFi connection to the Internet.

Can I lock the device with a password?
 
Yes, and Android™ is really cool here. They don’t have a pass 'word' but a pass pattern. You can lock your device by setting up a pass pattern, something you have to draw on the screen. Go to Menu > Settings > Security & Location > Set unlock pattern and set up your own unique dot-to-dot pattern to unlock your device.

How can I record my voice using the built-in microphone?
 
Use the Sound recorder application.

Can I connect to the Internet via my Bluetooth® telephone even though I only have a GPRS connection and not 3G?
 
Yes. Of course your data transfer speed will be much slower than with 3G.

How do I charge my device?
 
By plugging it into a running computer with the included USB cable. You can also purchase a USB type wall socket adapter from most electronics stores.

How can I optimize the battery life in my device?
 
Shut off the WiFi when not browsing the web (Menu > Settings > Wireless controls > WiFi), turn down the brightness of the screen (Menu > Settings > Sound and Display > Brightness). Shut down (not go into suspend mode) your device (Power button > Power off > Power off) if you don’t think you’ll be using it for the rest of the day.

What is the average battery life for my device when fully charged?
 
Depending on whether or not the WiFi and Bluetooth modules are turned on or if the screen is set to its brightest, you can get up to 7 hours of watching video or 22 hours of music playback on the hard drive version of the device. Remember that your device consumes energy when it is in stand-by mode and especially so if it is checking for e-mails every few minutes (uses WiFi power).

How do I get automatic firmware updates?
 
When you make a WiFi connection, your device will notify you if a newer firmware is currently available and offer to download it for you. If you choose yes, be aware that it could take a few minutes depending on how quick your Internet connection is. You can also download it from the ARCHOS web site (http://www.archos.com/firmware).

What’s the difference between the ARCHOS 5 Internet Tablet and the ARCHOS 5 Internet Media Tablet (from last year)?
 
This year’s Internet Tablet runs the Android™ Mobile Technology platform, has a faster processor, has a built-in GPS receiver, Wifi-N, Bluetooth®, an SD card slot, and the flash memory version is thinner than last year’s model.

What does a firmware update bring me? How can I do it?
 
Firmware updates are important to install because they add new functionality, improve functionality, and/or fix bugs. When you make a WiFi connection, your device will notify you if a newer firmware is currently available and offer to download it for you. If you choose yes, be aware that it could take a few minutes depending on how quick your Internet connection is. You can also download it from the ARCHOS web site ().

The Media Club does not seem to work. How do I get access to it?
 
Your ARCHOS must first be registered (Settings > About device > on-line registration, or on the ARCHOS web site) and your device needs to be connected to a WiFi hot spot.

What is the benefit in registering my device? How do I do it?
 
Registering will give you a free video plug-in, the Web TV & Radio application, and FM Radio application. You can register your ARCHOS 5 Internet Tablet by connecting it to the Internet via the WiFi and going to Menu > Settings > About device > Online Registration, or by going to www.archos.com/registration with your computer.

I have an earlier ARCHOS 5 Internet Media Tablet, can I just put the firmware on that to make it Android™ compatible?
 
No, there are too many hardware differences between these two devices.

Can I transfer last year’s products (ARCHOS 5 and 7 Internet Media Tablets) plug-ins to the ARCHOS Internet Tablet?
 
No.

Why does it take so long to boot the device?
 
The Android system is based on the Linux operating system and thus if the device is fully shut off, it must restart the Linux operating system like a desktop computer does. By placing your device in suspend mode instead of shutting it completely off, turning it back on will be practically instantaneous. It does however use a small amount of power while in suspend mode.

Average rating: 4 (3 Votes)
Last update:
2017-01-19 12:07
Revision:
1.2