Broadcom BRCM1005-D 802.11g MINI PCI Card build in Laptops User Manual PP02X User Guide

Broadcom Corporation 802.11g MINI PCI Card build in Laptops PP02X User Guide

PP02X User Guide Main

Dell™ Latitude™ D800 User's Guide
Click the links to the left for information on the features and operation of your computer. For information on
other documentation included with your computer, see "Finding Information."
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Glossary.
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows®
operating systems are not applicable.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2003 Dell Computer Corporation. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Computer Corporation is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron,Dell Precision,Dell TravelLite,Dimension,OptiPlex,Latitude, and
are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks and Intel SpeedStep and Centrino are
trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft,Windows, Windows NT, and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Computer Corporation under license; ENERGY STAR is a
registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Dell Computer Corporation has
determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or
products. Dell Computer Corporation disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model PP02X
February 2003 P/N 4Y332 Rev. A00
CAUTION: Follow the safety instructions in the System Information Guide to help protect
computer from damage and ensure your own personal safety.
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to
avoid the problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or
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Finding Information
Safety Instructions
Documentation Updates
Using Microsoft®Windows®
Using Devices
Using the Dell™Drivers and Utilities CD
Fixing Problems
Installing Parts
Safety Instructions
Documentation Updates
Documentation updates are sometimes included with your computer to describe changes to your computer or
software. Always read these updates before consulting any other documentation because the updates contain
the latest information.
Readme files, which may be installed on your hard drive or located on CDs such as the Drivers and Utilities
CD, provide last-minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technical reference
material intended for experienced users or technicians.
Using Microsoft® Windows®
Windows Help
Your operating system provides complete online instructions for using it:
zIn Windows XP, click the Start button and click Help and Support. For more information, see "Using
Microsoft®Windows®XP."
zIn Windows 2000, click the Start button and click Help.
Microsoft Windows Guide
For more information on using the Windows operating system, see the Windows documentation that came
with your computer.
CAUTION: For precautions on safely handling and using your computer and preventing
electrostatic discharge, see the safety instructions in the System Information Guide.
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Using Devices
Device User's Guides
For help with using your computer devices (such as a modem) and options you purchase separately from your
computer, see the device user's guide.
zIn Windows XP, click the Start button and click Help and Support. In the Help and Support window,
click User and system guides.
zIn Windows 2000, click the Start button, point to Programs, and then click User's Guides.
Using the Dell™ Drivers and Utilities CD
The Drivers and Utilities CD contains drivers and utilities, the Dell Diagnostics, and user's guides for your
computer and optional devices. Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers and utilities already
installed—no further installation or configuration is needed. If you ever need to reinstall a driver or utility,
diagnostics tests on your computer, or access the user's guides, use the Drivers and Utilities CD. See
"Reinstalling Software" and "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Fixing Problems
For help with fixing computer problems, see "Solving Problems" and "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Microsoft Windows Guide
For more information on troubleshooting problems, see the Windows documentation that came with your
computer.
Dell Support
For personalized online support, driver updates, and instant answers to your questions, access Dell Support at
support.dell.com.
Installing Parts
For help with adding parts to your computer, see "Adding and Replacing Parts"
For detailed information on the computer's parts and assemblies and how to remove and replace them, see
computer Service Manual on support.dell.com.
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About Your Computer
Front View
Left View
Right View
Back View
Bottom View
Front View
display latch — Keeps the display closed.
1display latch 8speakers
2display 9track stick/touch pad buttons
3power button 10 track stick
4device status lights 11 volume control buttons
5keyboard 12 mute button
6touch pad 13 keyboard status lights
7display latch button
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display — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display."
power button — Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power management
mode.
If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off completely
(which may take several seconds).
device status lights
If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the light operates as follows:
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft® Windows®
rather than by pressing the power button.
Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in a power management
mode.
Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.
NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is
Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.
Turns on when Bluetooth™ is enabled. To enable or disable Bluetooth, press .
NOTE: Bluetooth is an optional feature, so the icon turns on only if you ordered Bluetooth with
computer. For more information, see the documentation that came with your Bluetooth wireless
technology.
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{Solid green: The battery is charging.
{Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged.
If the computer is running on a battery, the light operates as follows:
{Off: The battery is adequately charged, the computer is turned off, or the battery is not installed
the computer.
{Flashing orange: The battery charge is low.
{Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low.
keyboard — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft® Windows® logo key .
For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad."
touch pad — Touch pad and touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Using the Keyboard
and Touch Pad" for more information.
display latch button — Press this button to release the display latch and open the display.
speakers — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume control buttons or volume-
control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad."
track stick/touch pad buttons — Track stick and touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse.
"Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" for more information.
track stick — Track stick and track stick buttons provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Using the
and Touch Pad" for more information.
volume control buttons — Press these buttons to adjust the volume.
mute button — Press this button to turn off the volume.
keyboard status lights
The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:
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Left View
air vents — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the
computer from overheating.
IEEE 1394 connector (4-pin) — Use to attach devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such
as some digital video cameras.
PC Card slot — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter. The computer ships with a
blank installed in the slot. For more information, see "Using PC Cards."
smart card slot — Supports one smart card. For more information, see "Using Smart Cards."
infrared sensor — Lets you transfer files from your computer to another infrared-compatible device without
usin
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cable connections.
Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.
Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.
Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.
1air vents 5infrared sensor
2IEEE 1394 connector (4-pin) 6audio connectors
3PC Card slot 7hard drive
4smart card slot 8security cable slot
NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not
indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.
CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do
store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is
running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.
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When you receive your computer, the sensor is disabled. You can use the system setup program to enable the
sensor. For information on transferring data, see Windows Help (Windows 2000), the Windows Help and
Center (Windows XP), or the documentation that came with your infrared-compatible device.
audio connectors
hard drive — Stores software and data.
security cable slot — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more
information, see the instructions included with the device.
Right View
Attach a microphone to the connector.
Attach headphones or speakers to the
NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable
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security cable slot — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more
information, see the instructions included with the device.
module bay — You can install devices such as an optical drive or Dell TravelLite™ module in the module bay.
For more information, see "Using the Module Bay."
device latch release — Releases a device. See "Using the Module Bay" or "Using a Battery" for instructions.
Dell™ D/Bay connector
1security cable slot
2module bay
3device latch release
4Dell™D/Bay connector
NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable
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Back View
S-video TV-out connector
USB connectors (2)
Connects the Dell D/Bay, which is an external media bay that accommodates an optical
drive, floppy drive, or second hard drive.
1S-video TV-out connector 6parallel connector
2USB connectors (2) 7serial connector
3network connector (RJ-45) 8video connector
4modem connector (RJ-11) 9AC adapter
5air vent 10 air vents
Connects your computer to a TV. Also connects digital-audio capable devices using
TV/digital-audio adapter cable. For more information, see "Connecting a Television to
the Computer."
Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. You can also connect the
optional floppy drive directly to a USB connector using the optional floppy-drive cable,
shown below.
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network connector (RJ-45)
modem connector (RJ-11) (optional)
air vent — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the
from overheating.
parallel connector
video connector
NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the
computer, do not plug a telephone line in to the network connector.
Connects the computer to a network. The green and yellow lights next to the connector
indicate activity for both wired and wireless network communications.
For information on using the network adapter, see the online network-adapter
documentation supplied with your computer. See "Finding Information."
If you ordered the optional internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem
connector.
For information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied
with your computer. See "Finding Information."
Connects a parallel device, such as a
Connects an external monitor. For more information, see "Using the
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serial connector
AC adapter connector — Attach an AC adapter to the computer.
The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC
with your computer turned either on or off.
air vents — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the
computer from overheating.
Bottom View
Connects serial devices, such as a mouse or handheld
CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power
connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or
connecting the cable to the power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment
damage.
NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the connector, not the
cable itself, and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable.
NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not
indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.
CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do
store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is
running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.
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hard drive — Stores software and data.
Mini PCI card/modem cover — Covers the compartment that contains the optional modem and optional
PCI card. See "Adding and Replacing Parts."
battery-bay latch release — Releases the battery. See "Using a Battery."
battery — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an
electrical outlet. See "Using a Battery."
battery charge gauge — Provides information on the battery charge. See "Using a Battery."
docking device slot — Lets you attach your computer to a docking device. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for additional information.
memory module cover — Covers the compartment that contains the memory modules. See "Adding and
Replacing Parts."
fan — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer
overheating.
1hard drive 5battery charge gauge
2Mini PCI card/modem 6docking device slot
3battery-bay latch release 7memory module
4battery 8fan
NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not
indicate a problem with the fans or the computer.
CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do
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store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is
running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.
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Using Microsoft® Windows® XP
Help and Support Center
Switching to Classic View
Desktop Cleanup Wizard
User Accounts and Fast User Switching
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
Program Compatibility Wizard
Home and Small Office Networking
Internet Connection Firewall
Help and Support Center
The Help and Support Center provides help with the Windows XP operating system and other support and
educational tools. To access the Help and Support Center, click the Start button and click Help and Support.
Switching to Classic View
You may change the appearance of the Control Panel, the Start menu, and the Windows desktop to the
classic view of previous Windows operating systems.
Control Panel
The Control Panel presents information as task-oriented categories. If you are accustomed to performing a
particular task with the icon-oriented classic Control Panel, you can switch to the classic icon view.
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. Click Switch to Classic View or Switch to Category View in the upper-left area of the Control
Panel window.
Start Menu
1. Right-click the empty area on the taskbar.
2. Click Properties.
3. Click the Start Menu tab.
4. Select Classic Start Menu and click OK.
Window and Button Appearance
1. Right-click anywhere on the main desktop screen and click Properties.
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2. Click the Appearance tab.
3. From the Windows and buttons drop-down menu, select Windows Classic style.
4. To customize color, font, and other classic desktop options, click Advanced.
5. When you have completed your appearance selections, click OK.
Desktop Cleanup Wizard
By default, the Desktop Cleanup Wizard moves program icons that you don't frequently use from your desktop
to a designated folder 7 days after you first start your computer and every 60 days after that. The appearance
of the Start menu changes as program icons are moved.
To turn off the Desktop Cleanup Wizard:
1. Right-click an empty spot on the desktop and click Properties.
2. Click the Desktop tab and click Customize Desktop.
3. Click Run Desktop Cleanup Wizard every 60 days to remove the check mark.
4. Click OK.
To run the Desktop Cleanup Wizard at any time:
1. Right-click an empty spot on the desktop and click Properties.
2. Click the Desktop tab and click Customize Desktop.
3. Click Clean Desktop Now.
4. When the Desktop Cleanup Wizard appears, click Next.
5. In the list of shortcuts, deselect any shortcuts you want to leave on the desktop and then click Next.
6. Click Finish to remove the shortcuts and close the wizard.
User Accounts and Fast User Switching
After Windows XP is installed, the administrator or a user with administrator rights can create additional user
accounts.
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. In the Control Panel window, click User Accounts.
NOTE: Account options for Windows XP Home Edition differ from those available for Windows XP
Professional. Also, options available in Windows XP Professional vary depending on whether the
is connected to a domain.
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3. Under Pick a task, click Create a new account.
4. Under Name the new account, type the name of the new user and click Next.
5. Under Pick an account type, click one of the following options:
zComputer administrator — You can change all computer settings.
zLimited — You can change only your own personal settings, such as your password. You cannot
install programs or use the Internet.
6. Click Create Account.
Fast User Switching
Fast User Switching allows multiple users to access one computer without requiring the previous user to log
1. Click the Start button and click Log Off.
2. In the Log Off Windows window, click Switch User.
When you use Fast User Switching, programs that previous users were using remain running in the
so you might experience slower computer activity. Also, multimedia programs, such as games and DVD
software, might not work with Fast User Switching. For more information, see the Windows Help and
Center.
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
The Files and Settings Transfer Wizard allows you to transfer files and settings from one computer to another
(for instance, when upgrading to a new computer), even if the old computer is running an earlier operating
system. The time required to collect and transfer data depends on the amount of data collected. Times can
from just a few minutes to several hours.
You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or direct serial connection, or you can store it
a removable medium such as a floppy disk or writable CD. If a CD drive is not available, the wizard allows you
to create a wizard disk to run on your old computer.
For more information, see the Windows Help and Support Center.
Program Compatibility Wizard
If you encounter problems running a program designed for an earlier Windows operating system, you can use
the Program Compatibility Wizard to help resolve the problem. The Program Compatibility Wizard allows you
configure a program to run in an environment closer to that of Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows Millennium
Edition (Me), Windows NT® 4.0 with Service Pack 5, or Windows 2000.
NOTE: Fast User Switching is unavailable if the computer is running Windows XP Professional and is a
member of a computer domain, or if the computer has less than 128 MB of memory.
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If you experience problems with your operating system or other programs after performing an installation,
can use the system restore feature to return your computer to a previous stable condition.
For more information, see the Windows Help and Support Center.
Home and Small Office Networking
The Network Setup Wizard provides online documentation and support for setting up a home or small office
network. The new wizard automatically enables the personal firewall (see "Internet Connection Firewall").
The Network Setup Wizard includes a checklist and steps to guide you through the process of sharing
such as files, printers, or an Internet connection, between computers in a home or small office. For more
information, see the Windows Help and Support Center.
Internet Connection Firewall
The Internet Connection Firewall provides basic protection from unauthorized access to the computer while
computer is connected to the Internet. The firewall is automatically enabled when you run the Network Setup
Wizard. When the firewall is enabled for a network connection, the firewall icon appears with a red background
in the Network Connections portion of the Control Panel.
Note that enabling the Internet Connection Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking software.
For more information, see the Windows Help and Support Center.
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Dell™ QuickSet Features
Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Dell™ QuickSet runs from the icon located in the taskbar and functions differently when you click,
click, or right-click the icon.
Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Click the icon to perform the following tasks:
zAdjust power management settings using the Power Management Wizard.
zAdjust the size of icons and toolbars.
zSelect a power scheme that you set in the Power Management Wizard.
zTurn presentation mode on or off.
Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Double-click the icon to adjust power management settings using the Power Management Wizard.
Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:
zEnable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen.
zEnable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.
zTurn wireless activity on or off.
zView Dell QuickSet Help.
zView the version and copyright date of the QuickSet program installed on your computer.
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.
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Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
Numeric Keypad
Keyboard Shortcuts
Touch Pad
Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick
Numeric Keypad
The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or
symbol, ensure that the keypad is enabled and press and the desired key. The light indicates that
keypad is active.
Keyboard Shortcuts
System Functions
Opens the Task Manager window
Enables and disables the numeric
Enables and disables the scroll lock
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Battery
CD or DVD Tray
Display Functions
Radios (Including Wireless Networking and Bluetooth™)
Power Management
Speaker Functions
If no sound comes from the speakers, press and adjust the volume.
Displays the Dell™QuickSet Battery
Requires Dell QuickSet to function. Ejects the tray out of the
Switches the video image to the next display in the following sequence: the integrated display
only, the integrated display and an external CRT monitor simultaneously, an external CRT
monitor only, the integrated display and an external DVI monitor simultaneously, external DVI
monitor only, and external CRT monitor and external DVI monitor simultaneously.
Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
Enables and disables radios, including wireless networking and
Activates the power management mode of your choice. You can program this keyboard
on the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window.
Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if
Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if
Enables and disables the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attached
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Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions
To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, and click Printers
Other Hardware (Windows XP) or double-click the Keyboard icon (Windows 2000).
Touch Pad
The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow you to move the cursor on the
display. Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons as you would use a mouse.
Minimizes all open windows
Maximizes all windows
Runs Windows Explorer
Opens the Run dialog box
Opens the Search Results dialog box
Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if the computer is connected to a
network)
Opens the System Properties dialog box
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zTo move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad.
zTo select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left
touch-pad button.
zTo select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and tap down-up-down on the
touch pad. On the second down motion, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected
by sliding your finger over the surface.
zTo double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad or use your
thumb to press the left touch-pad button twice.
You can also use the track stick to move the cursor. Press the track stick left, right, up, or down to change the
direction of the cursor on the display. Use the track stick and track stick buttons as you would use a mouse.
Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick
You can disable the touch pad and track stick or adjust their settings by using the Mouse Properties window.
1touch pad
2track stick
3track stick buttons
4touch pad buttons
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1. Open the Control Panel and double-click the Mouse icon.
2. On the Mouse Properties window:
zClick the Device Select tab to disable the touch pad and track stick.
zClick the Pointer tab to adjust touch pad and track stick settings.
3. Select the desired settings and click Apply.
4. Click OK to save the settings and close the window.
Changing the Track Stick Cap
Your computer came with an additional track stick cap. You can purchase additional caps by visiting the Dell
website at www.dell.com. You may need to change the track stick cap if it wears down from prolonged use.
1. Pull the cap off the track stick.
2. Align the new cap over the square track-stick post and gently press the cap down onto the post.
3. Test the track stick to ensure that the cap is seated properly.
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Using the Display
Adjusting Brightness
Switching the Video Image
Setting Display Resolution
Adjusting Brightness
When the Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the brightness to
lowest comfortable setting using the appropriate keyboard shortcuts for the display.
The Dell QuickSet Brightness Meter shows the current brightness setting for the display. Right-click the
icon in the taskbar to enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen.
You can enable or disable the Brightness Meter from the QuickSet taskbar menu. When the meter is
press the following keys to adjust brightness:
zPress to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
zPress to decrease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.
Switching the Video Image
When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector) attached and
turned on, the image may appear on either the display or the external device.
1Brightness Meter
NOTE: By default, the Brightness Meter appears in the lower-right corner of the display. You can click
and drag the meter to a new location, and the meter subsequently always appears at the new
NOTE: Brightness keyboard shortcuts only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors
that you attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is in CRT only mode
you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter appears, but the brightness level on the
monitor does not change.
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Press to switch the video image to the integrated display only, the integrated display and an
external CRT monitor simultaneously, an external CRT monitor only, the integrated display and external DVI
monitor simultaneously, external DVI monitor only, and external CRT monitor and external DVI monitor
simultaneously.
Setting Display Resolution
To display a program at a specific resolution, both the video controller and the display must support the
program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.
Before you change any of the default display settings, make a note of the default settings for future
If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust
automatically to the closest possible setting.
Microsoft® Windows® XP
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes.
3. Under Pick a task..., click the area you want to change, or under or pick a Control Panel icon, click
Display.
4. Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Display icon and click the Settings tab.
3. Try different settings for Colors and Screen area.
If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode.
pan mode, the screen cannot be completely displayed. For example, the taskbar that usually appears at the
bottom of the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the rest of the screen, use the touch pad or track
to move the cursor past the top, bottom, left, and right borders of the screen.
NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with
your Dell-installed operating system.
NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the
NOTICE: You can damage an external monitor by using an unsupported refresh rate. Before adjusting
the refresh rate on an external monitor, see the monitor user's guide.
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Using the Module Bay
About the Module Bay
Checking the Charge on the Second Battery
Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off
Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running
Using the CD or DVD Tray
About the Module Bay
You can install devices such as a floppy drive, CD drive, CD-RW drive, DVD drive, CD-RW/DVD drive,
Dell TravelLite™ module, second battery, or second hard drive in the module bay.
Your Dell™ computer ships with an optical drive installed in the module bay. However, the device screw is not
installed in the optical drive but packaged separately. When you install your device in the module bay, you can
install the device screw.
Checking the Charge on the Second Battery
Before you install a second battery, press the status button on the battery charge gauge to illuminate the
charge-level lights. Each light represents approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if
the battery has 80 percent of its charge remaining, four of the lights are on. If no lights appear, the battery
no charge.
NOTE: All devices that you install in the module bay, except a second battery, can also be installed in
Dell D/Bay.
NOTE: You do not need to install the device screw unless you want to secure the module inside the
computer for security purposes.
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Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is
Turned Off
Your computer ships with an optical drive installed in the module bay. However, the device screw is not
in the optical drive but packaged separately. When you install your device in the module bay, you can install
device screw.
If the Device Screw Is Not Installed
1. Press the device latch release.
1status button on the charge
gauge
2second battery (top)
NOTE: If the device screw is not installed, you can remove and install devices while the computer is
running and connected to a docking device (docked).
NOTE: You do not need to install the device screw unless you want to secure the module inside the
computer for security purposes.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, place them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in
the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.
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2. Pull the device out of the module bay.
3. Insert the new device into the bay, and push the device until you feel a click.
If the Device Screw Is Installed
1. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
2. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for instructions.
1device latch release
NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, place them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in
the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.
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3. Close the display and turn the computer over.
4. Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the device screw from the bottom of the computer.
5. Press the device latch release.
6. Pull the device out of the module bay.
7. Insert the new device into the bay, and push the device until you feel a click.
8. Replace the device screw.
1device latch release
NOTICE: Insert devices into the module bay before you dock and turn on the
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9. Turn on the computer.
Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is
Running
Your computer ships with an optical drive installed in the module bay. However, the device screw is not
in the optical drive but packaged separately. When you install your device in the module bay, you can install
device screw.
If the Device Screw Is Not Installed
Microsoft® Windows® XP
1. Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.
2. Click the device you want to eject.
3. Press the device latch release.
NOTE: If the device screw is not installed, you can remove and install devices while the computer is
running and connected to a docking device (docked).
NOTE: You do not need to install the device screw unless you want to secure the module inside the
computer for security purposes.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, place them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in
the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.
1device latch release
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4. Pull the device out of the module bay.
5. Insert the new device into the bay, and push the device until you feel a click.
Windows XP automatically recognizes the new device.
6. If necessary, enter your password to unlock your computer.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Unplug or Eject Hardware icon on the taskbar.
2. Click the device you want to eject and click Stop.
3. Press the device latch release.
1device latch release
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4. Pull the device out of the bay.
5. Insert the new device into the bay, and push the device until you feel a click.
6. When the operating system recognizes the new device, click Close.
If the Device Screw Is Installed
Windows XP
1. Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.
2. Click the device you want to eject.
3. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for instructions.
4. Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the device screw from the bottom of the computer.
5. Press the device latch release.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, place them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in
the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.
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6. Pull the device out of the module bay.
7. Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and replace the screw.
Windows XP automatically recognizes the new device.
8. If necessary, enter your password to unlock your computer.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Unplug or Eject Hardware icon on the taskbar.
2. Click the device you want to eject and click Stop.
3. Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the device screw from the bottom of the computer.
1device latch release
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4. Press the device latch release.
5. Pull the device out of the module bay.
6. Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and then replace the screw.
7. When the operating system recognizes the new device, click Close.
Using the CD or DVD Tray
1device latch release
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1. Press the eject button on the front of the drive.
2. Pull the tray out.
3. Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.
4. Snap the disc onto the spindle.
5. Push the tray back into the drive.
You can play a DVD on your computer if the computer shipped with a DVD drive or a CD-RW/DVD combo
You can write data to a blank CD on your computer if the computer shipped with a CD-RW or CD-RW/DVD
combo drive.
For more information on playing CDs or watching movies, click Help on the CD player or DVD player (if
available).
Adjusting the Volume
NOTICE: Do not press down on the drive tray when opening or closing it. Keep the tray closed when
are not using the drive.
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing CDs or
1eject button
NOTE: If you use a module bay that shipped with another computer, you need to install the drivers and
software necessary to play DVDs or write data. For more information, see the Drivers and Utilities CD.
NOTE: If the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD
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1. Click the Start button, point to All ProgramsoAccessoriesoEntertainment (or Multimedia), and
then click Volume Control.
2. In the Volume Control window, click and drag the bar in the Volume Control column and slide the
up or down to increase or decrease the volume.
For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.
The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either right-click the
icon in the taskbar or press the volume control buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the
screen.
When the meter is enabled, adjust the volume using the volume control buttons or by pressing the following
keys:
zPress to increase volume.
zPress to decrease volume.
zPress to mute volume.
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.
Adjusting the Picture
If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and
preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties.
Windows XP
1volume icon
2Volume Meter
3mute icon
NOTE: By default, the Volume Meter appears in the lower-right corner of the display. You can click
drag the meter to a new location, and the meter subsequently always appears at the new location.
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1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes.
3. Under Pick a task..., click Change the screen resolution.
4. In the Display Properties window, click and drag the bar in Screen resolution to change the setting
1280 by 800 pixels.
5. Under Color quality, click the drop-down menu and click Medium (16 bit).
6. Click OK.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Display icon and click the Settings tab.
3. Click and drag the bar in Screen area to change the setting to 1280 by 800 pixels.
4. Under Color quality, click the drop-down menu and click High Color (16 bit).
5. Click Apply.
6. Click OK to save the settings and close the window.
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Using a Battery
Battery Performance
Checking the Battery Charge
Charging the Battery
Removing a Battery
Installing a Battery
Storing a Battery
Battery Performance
Use a battery to power the computer when it is not connected to an electrical outlet. One battery is supplied
standard equipment in the battery bay.
Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. With average usage, you may expect from 3
4 hours from a single fully charged battery. You can install an optional second battery in the module bay to
significantly increase operating time. For more information about the second battery, see "Using the Module
Bay."
Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the
zUsing optical drives, especially DVD and CD-RW drives
zUsing wireless communications devices, PC Cards, or USB devices
zUsing high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as
games
zRunning the computer in maximum performance mode
You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer. You can also set power
management options to alert you when the battery charge is low.
NOTE: Batteries for portable computers are covered only during the initial one-year period of the
warranty for your computer. For more information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the
System Information Guide.
NOTE: The module bay in your computer supports a second battery. The Dell D/Bay does not support a
second battery.
NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a
NOTE: You can conserve battery life by setting the Maximum Power Savings option for your graphics
card. For more information, see the documentation that came with your graphics card.
CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace
the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The lithium-ion battery is
designed to work with your Dell™ computer. Do not use a battery from other computers
your computer.
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Checking the Battery Charge
The Dell QuickSet battery meter, the Microsoft® Windows® power meter window and icon, the battery
charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge.
For more information about checking the charge on the second battery, see "Using the Module Bay."
Dell QuickSet Battery Meter
Press to display the QuickSet Battery Meter.
The Battery Meter screen displays status, charge level, and charge completion time for the primary and
batteries in your computer.
In addition, when your computer is connected to a docking device (docked), the Battery Meter screen
aDock Battery tab, which displays the charge level and current status of the docking device battery.
The following icons appear in the Battery Meter screen:
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.
Microsoft Windows Power Meter
The Windows power meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the power meter, double-click the
icon on the taskbar. For more information on the Power Meter tab, see "Power Management."
If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears.
CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer
holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or environmental agency for advice on
of a lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" in your System Information Guide.
CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not
puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures above 65°C
Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme
Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.
NOTE: You can use your docking device to charge a computer battery. However, a battery in a docking
device does not power the docking device or computer.
zThe computer or docking device is running on battery power.
zThe battery is discharging or idle.
zThe computer or docking device is connected to an electrical outlet and running on AC
zThe battery is charging.
zThe computer or docking device is connected to an electrical outlet and running on AC
zThe battery is discharging, idle, or charging.
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Charge Gauge
Before you insert a battery, press the status button on the battery charge gauge to illuminate the charge-level
lights. Each light represents approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if the
has 80 percent of its charge remaining, four of the lights are on. If no lights appear, the battery has no
Health Gauge
The battery operating time is largely determined by the number of times it is charged. After hundreds of
and discharge cycles, batteries lose some charge capacity, or battery health. To check the battery health,
and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery
in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents
incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you
should consider replacing the battery. See "Specifications" for more information about the battery operating
time.
Low-Battery Warning
A low-battery warning occurs when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer
beeps once, indicating that minimal battery operating time remains. During that time, the speaker beeps
periodically. If two batteries are installed, the low-battery warning means that the combined charge of both
batteries is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer enters hibernate mode when the battery charge
at a critically low level. For more information on low-battery alarms, see "Power Management."
Charging the Battery
When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is connected to
electrical outlet, the computer checks the battery charge and temperature. If necessary, the AC adapter then
charges the battery and maintains the battery charge.
If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot environment, the battery may not
charge when you connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
The battery is too hot to start charging if the light flashes alternately green and orange. Shut down the
computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and allow the computer and the battery to cool
room temperature. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue charging the battery.
For more information on resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems."
NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery warning.
Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet, or install a second battery in the module bay. If
battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.
NOTE: The AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately 1 hour with the
computer turned off. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in
computer as long as you like. The battery internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.
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Removing a Battery
For more information about removing the second battery, see "Using the Module Bay."
1. Ensure that the computer is turned off, suspended in a power management mode, or connected to an
electrical outlet.
2. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for instructions.
3. Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the
from the bay.
Installing a Battery
Slide the battery into the bay and lower the battery until the latch release clicks.
For information about installing the second battery, see "Using the Module Bay."
Storing a Battery
Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges
prolonged storage. After a long storage period, rechar
g
e the battery fully before you use it.
CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect it from the
electrical outlet, and disconnect the modem from the telephone wall jack.
NOTICE: If you choose to replace the battery with the computer in standby mode, you have up to 90
seconds to complete the battery replacement before the computer shuts down and loses any unsaved
data.
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Power Management
Power Management Tips
Power Management Wizard
Power Management Modes
Power Options Properties
Power Management Tips
zConnect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible because battery life is largely determined by
the number of times the battery is charged.
zPlace the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for
long periods of time.
zTo enter a power management mode, close the display or press .
zTo exit a power management mode, open the display or press the power button.
Power Management Wizard
Click or double-click the icon to open the Power Management Wizard.
The first two screens of the wizard—Welcome and What is Power Management?—describe and define
various power management options.
Use the following screens of the Power Management Wizard to set various power management options,
including sleep modes, power schemes, and low battery charge alarms.
Setting Sleep Modes
The screen defines standby and hibernate modes. From the screen you can:
zSet standby-mode password options.
zEnable or disable hibernate mode.
NOTE: See "Using a Battery" for more information on conserving battery
NOTE: The Power Management Wizard is not available if you have restricted access
NOTE: On the What is Power Management? screen, you can select Do not show this page again.
When you select this option, the Welcome screen also does not appear again.
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zSelect how the computer will respond when you close the display:
{Choose no action.
{Enter standby mode.
{Enter hibernate mode.
zSelect how the computer will respond when you press the power button:
{Choose no action.
{Enter standby mode.
{Enter hibernate mode.
{Shut down the Microsoft® Windows® operating system and turn off the computer.
{Prompt a user for an action (Ask me what to do).
zSelect how the computer will respond when you press :
{Choose no action.
{Enter standby mode.
{Enter hibernate mode.
{Shut down Microsoft Windows and turn off the computer.
{Prompt a user for an action (Ask me what to do).
Selecting a Power Scheme
The screen allows you to select, create, and edit power scheme settings. In addition, you can delete power
schemes that you create, but you cannot delete Dell™ QuickSet predefined power schemes (Maximum
Battery,Maximum Performance,Presentation, and Network Disabled).
All QuickSet power schemes are displayed in a drop-down menu near the center of the screen. The power
settings for each scheme in the menu are listed below the menu. The power settings are listed separately
when the computer is running on battery or connected to an electrical outlet.
The Power Management Wizard also allows you to associate the display brightness level with a power
scheme. You must enable brightness-level power schemes through QuickSet in order to set the brightness
The display brightness, internal network card activity, and wireless activity features are not available
the Microsoft® Windows® Control Panel power schemes. In order to make use of these value-added
you must set them through QuickSet power schemes.
NOTE: When your computer is running on battery power, the Network Disabled power scheme
your internal network and wireless activity. When your computer is connected to an electrical outlet
docking device, the Network Disabled power scheme disables only your wireless activity. You must
the power scheme through QuickSet (not Microsoft® Windows®) for Network Disabled to work.
NOTE: QuickSet automatically adds the word (QuickSet) after the names of power schemes created
using QuickSet.
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Setting Battery Alarms and Actions
The screen allows you to enable the low-battery and critical-battery alarms and to change settings for the
alarms. For example, you can set the low-battery alarm to 20% to remind you to save work and switch to AC
power, and you can set the critical-battery alarm to 10% to enter hibernate mode. From the screen, you can:
zSelect whether the alarm will notify you by sound or text.
zAdjust the power level at which you want the alarm to notify you.
zSelect how the computer will respond when the alarm notifies you:
{Choose no action.
{Enter standby mode.
{Enter hibernate mode.
{Shut down Windows and turn off the computer.
Completing the Power Management Wizard
The screen summarizes the QuickSet power scheme, sleep mode, and battery alarm settings for your
Review the settings you have selected and click Finish.
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.
Power Management Modes
Standby Mode
Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a predetermined period of
inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby mode, it returns to the same operating state it was
before entering standby mode.
To enter standby mode:
zIn the Microsoft®Windows® XP operating system, click the Start button, click Turn off computer,
then click Stand by.
In Windows 2000, click the Start button, click Shutdown, click Standby, and then click O
K
.
NOTE: Brightness shortcut keys only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors that
attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is in CRT only mode and you
change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter appears, but the brightness level on the monitor
not change.
NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby mode, it may lose
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or
zDepending on how you set the power management options on the Advanced tab in the Power
Properties window, use one of the following methods:
{Close the display.
{Press .
To exit standby mode, press the power button or open the display depending on how you set the options on
Advanced tab. You cannot make the computer exit standby mode by pressing a key or touching the touch
or track stick.
Hibernate Mode
Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then
completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits hibernate mode, it returns to the same
state it was in before entering hibernate mode.
Your computer enters hibernate mode if the battery charge level becomes critically low.
To manually enter hibernate mode:
zIn Windows XP, click the Start button, click Turn off computer, press and hold , and then
click Hibernate.
In Windows 2000, if hibernate support is enabled, click the Start button, click Shutdown, click
Hibernate, and then click OK.
or
zDepending on how you set the power management options on the Advanced tab in the Power
Properties window, use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:
{Close the display.
{Press .
To exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit hibernate mode.
You cannot make the computer exit hibernate mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad or track
For more information on hibernate mode, see the documentation that came with your operating system.
Power Options Properties
NOTICE: You cannot remove devices or disconnect your computer from a docking device while your
computer is in hibernate mode.
NOTE: Some PC Cards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove
reinsert the card, or simply restart (reboot) your computer.
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The Power Options Properties window helps you to manage power consumption and monitor battery
status. To access the Microsoft Windows Power Options Properties window:
zIn Windows XP, click the Start button, click Control Panel, click Performance and Maintenance,
then click Power Options.
zIn Windows 2000, open the Control Panel and double-click the Power Options icon.
Power Schemes Tab
Windows XP controls the performance level of the processor depending on the power scheme you select. You
not need to make any further adjustments to set the performance level. For information on setting processor
performance for other operating systems, see "Intel SpeedStep™Technology Tab."
Each preset power scheme has different time-out settings for entering standby mode, turning off the
and turning off the hard drive. For more information on power management options, see the Help and
Center (Windows Help in Windows 2000).
Alarms Tab
The Low battery alarm and Critical battery alarm settings alert you with a message when the battery
charge falls below a certain percentage. When you receive your computer, the Low battery alarm and
battery alarm check boxes are selected. It is recommended that you continue to use these settings. See
"Using a Battery" for more information on low-battery warnings.
Power Meter Tab
The Power Meter tab displays the current power source and amount of battery charge remaining.
Advanced Tab
The Advanced tab allows you to:
zSet power icon and standby mode password options.
zProgram the following functions (depending on your operating system):
{Prompt a user for an action (Ask me what to do).
{Enter standby mode.
{Enter hibernate mode.
{Shut down Windows and turn off the computer.
{Choose no action (None or Do nothing).
To program these functions, click an option from the corresponding drop-down menu and then click OK.
Hibernate Tab
NOTE: To enable audible alarms, click each Alarm Action button and select Sound
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The Hibernate tab lets you enable hibernate mode by clicking the Enable hibernate support check box.
Intel SpeedStep™ Technology Tab
Depending on your operating system and microprocessor, the Power Options Properties window includes
Intel SpeedStep™ technology tab. Intel SpeedStep technology allows you to set the performance level of
processor according to whether the computer is running on battery or AC power. Depending on your
system, typical options are:
zAutomatic — The processor runs at its highest possible speed (Maximum Performance mode) when the
computer is running on AC power. When the computer is running on battery power, the processor
Battery Optimized mode.
zMaximum Performance — The processor runs at its highest possible speed even if the computer is
running on battery power.
zBattery Optimized Performance — Processor speed is optimized for battery power even if the
computer is connected to an electrical outlet.
zMaximum Battery — The processor runs at a slower speed to extend battery life.
To change additional Intel SpeedStep options:
1. Click Advanced and click one of the following options:
zDisable Intel SpeedStep technology control
zRemove flag icon (from the notification area)
zDisable audio notification when performance changes
2. Click OK to accept any changes and click OK to close the Intel SpeedStep™ technology window.
You can also change the Intel SpeedStep settings by right-clicking the flag icon in the notification area.
NOTE: Windows XP controls the performance level of the processor depending on the power scheme
you select. See "Power Schemes Tab."
NOTE: To use Intel SpeedStep technology, a Windows operating system must be
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Using PC Cards
PC Card Types
PC Card Blanks
Extended PC Cards
Installing a PC Card
Removing a PC Card or Blank
PC Card Types
See "Specifications" for information on supported PC Cards.
The PC Card slot has one connector that supports a single Type I or Type II card. The PC Card slot supports
CardBus technology and extended PC Cards. "Type" of card refers to its thickness, not its functionality.
PC Card Blanks
Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the PC Card slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust
and other particles. Save the blank for use when no PC Card is installed in the slot; blanks from other
computers may not fit your computer.
To remove the blank, see "Removing a PC Card or Blank."
Extended PC Cards
An extended PC Card (for example, a wireless network adapter) is longer than a standard PC Card and
extends outside the computer. Follow these precautions when using extended PC Cards:
zProtect the exposed end of an installed card. Striking the end of the card can damage the system
board.
zAlways remove an extended PC Card before you pack the computer in its carrying case.
Installing a PC Card
You can install a PC Card in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects
NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable
device.
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the card.
PC Cards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) to indicate which end to insert
into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the
documentation that came with the card.
To install a PC Card:
1. Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the slot and the top side of the card facing up.
latch may need to be in the "in" position before you insert the card.
2. Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.
If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again.
The computer recognizes most PC Cards and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the
configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the floppy disk or CD that came with
PC Card.
Removing a PC Card or Blank
Press the latch and gently remove the card or blank. For some latches, you must press the latch twice: once
pop the latch out, and then a second time to pop the card out.
3. Gently remove the card or blank.
Save a blank to use when no PC Card is installed in a slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other
particles.
NOTICE: Use the PC Card configuration utility on the taskbar to select a card and stop it from
functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration
utility, you could lose data. Do not attempt to eject a card by pulling its cable, if one is attached.
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Using Smart Cards
About Smart Cards
Installing a Smart Card
About Smart Cards
Smart cards are small portable credit-card shaped devices with internal integrated circuits. Smart cards come
in two varieties: memory and microprocessor. Memory smart cards store data but cannot process information.
Microprocessor smart cards can add, delete, and manipulate information in the card memory. The top surface
of the microprocessor smart card contains an embedded microprocessor located under the gold contact pad.
Microprocessor smart cards can be used for programs such as:
zSecure log-on and authentication of users to PCs and networks
zSecure business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C)
e-commerce
zStorage of digital certificates, credentials, and passwords
zEncryption of sensitive data
The combination of the small size and integrated circuits make smart cards valuable tools for security, data
storage, and special programs. Using smart cards can improve system security by combining something a
user has (the smart card) with something only the user should know (a PIN) to provide more secure user-
authentication than passwords alone.
Installing a Smart Card
You can install a smart card in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically
detects the card.
To install a smart card:
1. Remove the smart card blank from the smart card slot.
2. Hold the card face up with the gold contact pad on the top surface and pointing toward the smart card
slot.
NOTE: To use a smart card for secure PC log-on and authentication, B2B and B2C e-commerce, local
file encryption, and storage of digital certificates, additional software is required. To use a smart card
for secure network log-on and authentication, file and e-mail encryption, and Virtual Private Network
(VPN) log-on, you need to enable Microsoft® Windows® PKI support.
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3. Slide the smart card into the smart card slot until the card is completely seated in its connector. The
smart card will protrude approximately 1.27 cm (0.5 inch) from the slot. The smart card slot is located
below the PC Card slot.
If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again.
1gold contact pad
2smart card (top)
1PC Card slot (top)
2smart card slot (bottom)
3smart card
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Traveling With Your Computer
Identifying Your Computer
Packing the Computer
Travel Tips
Identifying Your Computer
zAttach a name tag or business card to the computer, or use a permanent marker or stencil to write a
unique identifying mark (such as your driver's license number) on the computer.
zWrite down your service tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case. Use
the service tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell.
zCreate a file on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop called if_found. Place information such as your
name, address, and telephone number in this file.
zContact your credit card company and ask if it offers coded identification tags.
Packing the Computer
zRemove any external devices attached to the computer and store them in a safe place. Remove any
cables attached to installed PC Cards, and remove any extended PC Cards.
zTo make the computer as light as possible, replace any devices installed in the module bay with the Dell
TravelLite™ module.
zFully charge the main battery and any spare batteries you plan to carry with you.
zShut down the computer.
zDisconnect the AC adapter.
zRemove any extraneous items, such as paper clips, pens, and paper, from the keyboard and palm rest
and close the display.
zUse the optional Dell™ carrying case to pack the computer and its accessories together safely.
zAvoid packing the computer with items such as shaving cream, colognes, perfumes, or food.
zProtect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as extreme temperatures
and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids.
NOTICE: When the display is closed, extraneous items on the keyboard or palm rest could damage
the display.
NOTICE: If the computer has been exposed to extreme temperatures, allow it to acclimate to room
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zPack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead storage
compartment.
Travel Tips
zConsider disabling wireless activity on your computer to maximize battery operating time. To disable
wireless activity, press .
zConsider changing your power management options to maximize battery operating time.
zIf you are traveling internationally, carry proof of ownership—or of your right to use the computer if it is
company-owned—to speed your passage through customs. Investigate the customs regulations of the
countries you plan to visit, and consider acquiring an international carnet (also known as a merchandise
passport) from your government.
zEnsure that you know which electrical outlets are used in the countries you will visit, and have
appropriate power adapters.
zCheck with your credit card company for information about the kinds of emergency travel assistance it
offers to users of portable computers.
Traveling by Air
zEnsure that you have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn on the computer.
zBefore you use the computer on an airplane, verify that such usage is permitted. Some airlines forbid
use of electronic devices during the flight. All airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during takeoff
and landing.
If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen
zCall a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer. Include the service tag in your
description of the computer. Ask that a case number be assigned and write down the number, along
the name, address, and telephone number of the law enforcement agency. If possible, obtain the name
the investigating officer.
temperature for 1 hour before turning it on.
NOTICE: Do not check the computer as
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive. Doing so can result in loss of
NOTICE: Do not walk the computer through a metal detector. Send the computer through an X-ray
machine or have it hand inspected.
NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area.
you do not know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.
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zIf the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of the company.
zContact Dell customer service to report the missing computer. Provide the computer service tag, the
number, and the name, address, and telephone number of the law enforcement agency to which you
reported the missing computer. If possible, give the name of the investigating officer.
The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the computer service tag and flag the
computer as missing or stolen. If someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives your service tag, the
computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen. The representative will attempt to get the phone
number and address of the caller. Dell will then contact the law enforcement agency to which you made the
report of the missing computer.
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Passwords
About Passwords
Using a Primary Password
Using an Administrator Password
Using a Hard Drive Password
Assigning an Asset Tag
About Passwords
A primary password prevents unauthorized access to the computer at start-up. You can use an administrator
password instead of the primary password. A hard drive password helps prevent unauthorized access to data
the drive, even when the drive is installed in another computer.
If you forget any of your passwords, contact your system administrator or call Dell. For your protection, Dell
technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use
the computer.
The following table identifies types and features of passwords available on your computer.
Using a Primary Password
The primary password allows you to protect the computer from unauthorized access.
After assigning a primary password, you must enter it each time you turn on your computer. The following
NOTE: Passwords are disabled when you receive your
NOTE: Only hard drives purchased from Dell for use with the Dell™ Latitude™ D-Family computers
support hard drive passwords.
NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However,
they are not foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection,
as smart cards, data encryption programs, or PC Cards with encryption features.
Type of
Password
Features
Primary zProtects the computer from unauthorized access
Administrator zGives system administrators or service technicians access to computers for repair
reconfiguration
zAllows you to restrict access to the system setup program in the same way a
password restricts access to the computer
zCan be used instead of the primary password
Hard drive zHelps protect the data on your hard drive or external hard drive (if one is being
used) from unauthorized access.
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message appears each time you turn on the computer:
Please type in the primary or administrator password and press .
To continue, enter your password (maximum eight characters).
If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous state.
If you have assigned an administrator password, you can use it instead of the primary password. The
does not specifically prompt you for the administrator password.
Using an Administrator Password
The administrator password is designed to give system administrators or service technicians access to
computers for repair or reconfiguration. The administrators or technicians can assign identical administrator
passwords to groups of computers, allowing you to assign the primary password.
When you set an administrator password, the Configure Setup option becomes available in the system setup
program. The Configure Setup option allows you to restrict access to the system setup program in the same
way a primary password restricts access to the computer.
The administrator password can be used instead of the primary password. Whenever you are prompted to
the primary password, you can enter the administrator password.
If you forget the primary password and do not have an administrator password assigned, or if you have
primary and an administrator password assigned but forget them both, contact your system administrator
contact Dell.
Using a Hard Drive Password
The hard drive password helps protect the data on your hard drive from unauthorized access. You can also
assign a password for an external hard drive (if one is being used) that can be the same as or different from
password for the primary hard drive.
After assigning a hard drive password, you must enter it each time you turn on the computer and each time
resume normal operation from standby mode.
If the hard drive password is enabled, the following message appears each time you turn on the computer:
Please type in the hard-disk drive password and press .
NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also
NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the computer, but it does not provide access to
hard drive when a hard drive password is assigned.
NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also
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To continue, enter your password (maximum eight characters). Press to return the computer to its
previous state.
If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous state.
If you enter the wrong password, the following message appears:
Invalid password
[Press Enter to retry]
If the correct password is not entered in three attempts, the computer tries to boot from another bootable
device if the Boot First Device option in the system setup program is set to allow it. If the Boot First
option is not set to allow booting from another device, the computer returns to the state it was in when you
turned it on.
If the hard drive password, the external hard drive password, and the primary password are the same, you
prompted only for the primary password. If the hard drive password is different from the primary password,
are prompted for both. Two different passwords provide greater security.
Assigning an Asset Tag
The Asset Tag utility allows you to enter an asset tag that you or your company assigns to the computer. After
you enter an asset tag, the tag appears in the system setup screens.
You can also use the Asset Tag utility to enter an owner tag that appears in the system log-on screen and with
the primary password prompt.
Use your Drivers and Utilities CD to create a bootable floppy disk, and then use the bootable floppy disk to
assign an asset tag:
1. Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2. Connect the Dell™ D/Bay with a floppy drive to the Dell D/Bay connector on the right side of the
computer, or connect a USB floppy drive to one of the two USB connectors on the back of the
3. Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.
4. When the Welcome Dell System Owner window appears, click Next.
5. Select MS-DOS from the Operating System drop-down menu.
6. Click Dell Portables Asset Tag, click Extract, and then click Setup.
7. Insert a blank floppy disk and press .
Follow the instructions on the screen to create a bootable floppy disk.
8. Boot the computer using the bootable floppy disk:
a. Restart the computer.
NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the computer, but it does not provide access to a
hard drive that is protected by a hard drive password.
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b. Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut
the computer and try again.
c. Press the arrow keys to select Diskette Drive and press .
9. Type asset and a space followed by the new asset tag, and press .
For example, type the following command line and press :
asset 1234$ABCD&
10. When the computer prompts you to verify the asset tag, type y.
The computer displays the new or modified asset tag and the service tag.
11. Restart your computer to exit the Asset Tag utility.
Viewing Existing Asset and Service Tags
1. Boot the computer using the bootable floppy disk you created in "Assigning an Asset Tag."
2. Type asset and press .
Deleting an Asset Tag
1. Boot the computer using the bootable floppy disk you created in "Assigning an Asset Tag."
2. Type asset /d and press .
3. When the computer prompts you to delete the asset tag, type y.
Assigning an Owner Tag
An owner tag can have up to 48 characters; any combination of letters, numbers, and spaces is valid.
1. Boot the computer using the bootable floppy disk you created in "Assigning an Asset Tag."
2. Type asset /o and a space followed by the new owner tag, and press .
NOTE: An asset tag can have up to 10 characters; any combination of characters excluding spaces is
valid.
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For example, type the following command line and press :
asset /o ABC Company
3. When the computer prompts you to verify the owner tag, type y.
The computer displays the new owner tag.
Deleting an Owner Tag
1. Boot the computer using the bootable floppy disk you created in "Assigning an Asset Tag."
2. Type asset /o /d and press .
3. When the computer prompts you to delete the owner tag, type y.
Asset Tag Options
To use one of the asset tag options (see the following table):
1. Boot the computer using the bootable floppy disk you created in "Assigning an Asset Tag."
2. Type asset and a space followed by the option, and then press .
NOTE: For security, you cannot set, change, or delete the owner tag if the primary or administrator
passwords are set.
Asset Tag Option Description
/d Deletes the asset tag
/o owner tag Specifies a new owner tag
/o /d Deletes the owner tag
/? Displays the Asset Tag utility help
screen
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Solving Problems
Power Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
Power Problems
Error Messages
Video and Display Problems
Sound and Speaker Problems
Printer Problems
Modem and Internet Connection
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
External Keyboard Problems
Unexpected Characters
Drive Problems
PC Card Problems
Smart Card Problems
Network Problems
General Program Problems
If Your Dell™Computer Gets Wet
If You Drop or Damage Your
Resolving Other Technical Problems
Check the power light — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the
power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit
mode. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer.
Charge the battery — The battery charge may be depleted.
1. Reinstall the battery.
2. Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3. Turn on the computer.
Check the battery status light — If the battery status light flashes orange or is a steady
the battery charge is low or depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
If the battery status light flashes green and orange, the battery is too hot to charge. Shut down
the computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and
computer cool to room temperature.
If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. Contact Dell.
Check the battery temperature — If the battery temperature is below 0° C (32° F), the
computer will not start up.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
device, such as a lamp.
Check the AC adapter — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light,
ensure that the light is on.
Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet — Bypass power protection devices,
power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.
Eliminate possible interference — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or
other appliances.
Adjust the power properties — See "Power Management."
Reseat the memory modules — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains
blank, reseat the memory modules.
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Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer
Your computer is designed to use the 90-W AC adapter; for optimum system performance, you should always
use this adapter.
The 65-W AC adapters used in other Dell™ portable computers can be used with your computer, but they will
decrease system performance. Using less-powerful AC adapters, including the 65-W AC adapter, will cause
to receive a WARNING message.
Docking Power Considerations
Due to the extra power consumption when a computer is docked to the Dell D/Dock, normal computer
is not possible on battery power alone. Ensure that the 90-W AC adapter is connected to your computer when
the computer is docked to the Dell D/Dock.
Docking While the Computer Is Running
If a computer is connected to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port while the computer is running, presence of the
docking device is ignored until the AC adapter is connected to the computer.
AC Power Loss While the Computer Is Docked
If a computer loses AC power while docked to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port, the computer immediately goes
into low-performance mode.
Error Messages
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running
the time the message appeared.
Auxiliary device failure — The touch pad, track stick, or external mouse may be faulty. For an
external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system
setup program. If the problem persists, contact Dell.
Bad command or file name — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put
in the proper place, and used the correct pathname.
Cache disabled due to failure — The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed.
Contact Dell.
CD drive controller failure — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer.
See "Drive Problems."
Data error — The hard drive cannot read the data. See "Drive Problems."
Decreasing available memory — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly
seated. Reseat the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Adding Memory."
Disk C: failed initialization — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests
as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Drive not ready — The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it can continue. Install
hard drive in the hard drive bay.
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Error reading PCMCIA card — The computer cannot identify the PC Card. Reinsert the card or
try another PC Card.
Extended memory size has changed — The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not
match the memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again,
contact Dell.
Gate A20 failure — A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if
necessary, replace them.
General failure — The operating system is unable to carry out the command. The message is
usually followed by specific information—for example, Printer out of paper. Take the
appropriate action.
Hard-disk drive configuration error — The computer cannot identify the drive type. Shut
the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the
computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests as
described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Hard-disk drive controller failure 0 — The hard drive does not respond to commands from
computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a CD.
Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the
persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests as described in "Using the Dell
Diagnostics."
Hard-disk drive failure — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer.
Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut
down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists,
another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Hard-disk drive read failure — The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer,
remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer,
the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the
Disk Drive tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Insert bootable media — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable CD. Insert a
CD.
Invalid configuration information-please run System Setup Program — The system
configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is most
to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate options in the system
program. See "Using the System Setup Program."
Keyboard clock line failure — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the
Keyboard Controller test as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Keyboard controller failure — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Restart the
computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. Run the
Keyboard Controller test as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Keyboard data line failure — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the
Keyboard Controller test as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Keyboard stuck key failure — For external keyboards or keypads, check the cable connection.
Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run
Stuck Key test as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Memory address line failure at address, read value expecting value — A memory module
may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them.
Memory allocation error — The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the
operating system, another program, or a utility. Shut down the computer, wait 30 seconds, and
then restart it. Try to run the program again. If the error message still appears, see the
documentation.
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Memory data line failure at address, read value expecting value — A memory module may
be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.
Memory double word logic failure at address, read value expecting value — A memory
module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,
replace them.
Memory odd/even logic failure at address, read value expecting value — A memory
may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them.
Memory write/read failure at address, read value expecting value — A memory module
may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them.
No boot device available — The computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard drive is your
boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot
No boot sector on hard drive — The operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell.
No timer tick interrupt — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System
Set tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Operating system not found — Contact Dell.
Optional ROM bad checksum — The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell.
A required .DLL file was not found — The program that you are trying to open is missing an
essential file. Remove and then reinstall the program.
Microsoft® Windows® XP
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. Click Add or Remove Programs.
3. Select the program you want to remove.
4. Click Remove or Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen.
5. See the program documentation for installation instructions.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.
3. Select the program that you want to remove.
4. Click Change or Remove Programs.
5. See the program documentation for installation instructions.
Sector not found — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may
have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking
to check the file structure on the hard drive. See Windows Help for instructions. If a large
of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the hard drive.
Seek error — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard drive.
Shutdown failure — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set
tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Time-of-day clock lost power — System configuration settings are corrupted. Connect your
computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to restore the
data by entering the system setup program. Then immediately exit the program. See "Using
System Setup Program." If the message reappears, contact Dell.
Time-of-day clock stopped — The reserve battery that supports the system configuration
settings may require recharging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the
battery. If the problem persists, contact Dell.
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Video and Display Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If the display is blank
If the display is difficult to read
Time-of-day not set-please run the System Setup program — The time or date stored in
system setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date and
Time options. See "Using the System Setup Program."
Timer chip counter 2 failed — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the
System Set tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Unexpected interrupt in protected mode — The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning,
a memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller
as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
x:\ is not accessible. The device is not ready — Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
Warning: Battery is critically low — The battery is running out of charge. Replace the battery,
or connect the computer to an electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate hibernate mode or shut
the computer.
NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer supports, it is
recommended that you attach an external monitor to your computer.
Check the battery — If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge
be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the
computer.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
device, such as a lamp.
Check the AC adapter — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light,
ensure that the light is on.
Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet — Bypass power protection devices,
power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.
Adjust the power properties — Search for the keyword standby in Windows Help or the
Windows Help and Support Center.
Switch the video image — If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press
to switch the video image to the display.
Adjust the brightness — See "Adjusting Brightness" for instructions on adjusting the
Move the subwoofer away from the computer or monitor — If your external speaker
includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the
or external monitor.
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If only part of the display is readable
Sound and Speaker Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If you have a problem with integrated speakers
Eliminate possible interference — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or
other appliances.
Rotate the computer to face a different direction — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can
poor picture quality.
Adjust the Windows display settings —
Windows XP
1. Click the Start button and then click Control Panel.
2. Click Appearance and Themes.
3. Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.
4. Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Display icon and click the Settings tab.
3. Try different settings for Colors,Screen area, and Advanced Settings.
Run the Video diagnostics tests — If no error message appears and you still have a display
problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the Dell
Diagnostics. Then contact Dell.
See "Error Messages" — If an error message appears, see "Error Messages."
Connect an external monitor —
1. Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.
2. Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness and contrast
controls.
If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact
Dell.
Adjust the Windows volume control — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner
of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Adjust
volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.
Adjust the volume using keyboard shortcuts — See "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad."
Press to disable (mute) or reenable the integrated speakers.
Reinstall the sound (audio) driver — See "Reinstalling Software."
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If you have a problem with external speakers
Printer Problems
For Windows 2000 only, ensure that digital audio for the CD drive is enabled —
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the System icon.
3. Click the Hardware tab.
4. Click Device Manager.
5. Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives.
6. Double-click the name of the drive.
7. On the drive Properties screen, click the Properties tab.
8. Click the box near the bottom of the screen to enable digital audio for your CD or DVD
NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have
listening to MP3 songs, make sure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.
Check the speaker cable connections — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
device, such as a lamp.
Ensure that the speakers are turned on — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.
Adjust the Windows volume control — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner
of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Adjust
volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.
Test the speakers — Plug the speaker audio cable in to the connector on the computer.
Ensure that the headphone volume control is turned up. Play a music CD.
Run the speaker self-test — Some speaker systems have a self-test button on the subwoofer.
See the speaker documentation for self-test instructions.
Eliminate possible interference — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps
check for interference.
Reinstall the sound (audio) driver — See "Reinstalling Software."
Run the Misc. PCI Devices diagnostic test — See "Using the Dell Diagnostics." If the tests
complete successfully, the controller is functioning properly.
If the problem persists, or if the tests do not complete successfully, contact Dell.
For Windows 2000 only, ensure that digital audio for the CD drive is enabled —
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the System icon.
3. Click the Hardware tab.
4. Click Device Manager.
5. Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives.
6. Double-click the name of the drive.
7. On the drive Properties screen, click the Properties tab.
8. Click the box near the bottom of the screen to enable digital audio for your CD or DVD
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Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
Modem and Internet Connection Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
Check the printer cable connections — Ensure that the printer cable is properly connected to
the computer.
Check the printer cable —
1. Shut down the computer and turn off the printer.
2. Swap the printer cable with a cable that you know is working.
3. Turn on the printer and computer, and try again to print.
4. If you print successfully, contact Dell for assistance in obtaining a new printer cable.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
device, such as a lamp.
Ensure that the printer is turned on — See the documentation supplied with the printer.
Verify that Windows recognizes the printer —
Windows XP
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. Click Printers and Other Hardware.
3. Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer model is listed, right-click
printer icon.
4. Click Properties and click the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port
setting is LPT1 (Printer Port).
Windows 2000
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers.
If the printer model is listed, right-click the printer icon.
2. Click Properties and click the Ports tab.
3. Ensure that the Print to the following port: option is set for your printer type:
zFor a parallel printer: LPT1 (Printer Port)
zFor a USB printer: USB
Reinstall the printer driver — See "Reinstalling Software."
Check the printer — Run the printer self-test. If the test does not complete successfully, the
printer is probably defective. Contact the printer manufacturer.
NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only. Connecting the modem to a
telephone network may damage the modem.
NOTICE: Modem and network connectors look similar. Do not plug a telephone line in to the network
connector.
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NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your modem is functioning properly.
you are sure that your modem is working properly and you still experience problems, contact your
Check the telephone wall jack — Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect
to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone. Ensure that you have touchtone telephone service. Try
connecting the modem to a different telephone wall jack.
Slow connection speeds can be caused by telephone noise as well as by telephone line or
conditions. Contact your telephone company or network administrator for more information.
Connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack — If you have other telephone
devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line
splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone line to connect the modem directly to the
telephone wall jack.
Check the connection — Verify that the telephone line is connected to the modem.
Check the telephone line — Try using a different telephone line. If you are using a line that is
m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
Irregular dial tone — If you have voice mail service, you might hear an irregular dial tone
you have messages. Contact your telephone company for instructions on restoring a dial tone.
Turn off call waiting (catch-phone) — See your telephone directory for instructions on
deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking connection properties.
Windows XP
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. Click Printers and Other Hardware, click Phone and Modem Options, click the
Rules tab, and then click Edit....
3. In the Edit Location window, ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and
then select the proper code as listed in your telephone directory.
4. Click Apply and click OK.
5. Close the Phone and Modems Options window.
6. Close the Control Panel window.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Click Phone and Modem Options.
3. Click the Dialing Rules tab and click Edit.
4. Ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and then select the proper code as
listed in your telephone directory.
5. Click Apply and click OK.
6. Close the Phone and Modem Options window.
Verify that the modem is communicating with Windows —
Windows XP
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. Click Printers and Other Hardware and click Phone and Modem Options.
3. Click the Modems tab.
4. Click the COM port for your modem.
5. Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that
the modem is communicating with Windows.
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
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Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click Phone and Modem Options.
If multiple entries for the same modem or modems are listed but not installed, delete
entries, restart the computer, and repeat steps 1 and 2.
3. Click the Diagnostics tab.
4. Click the COM port for your modem.
5. Click Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
Check the touch pad settings —
Windows XP
1. Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other
2. Click Mouse.
3. Try adjusting the settings.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Mouse icon.
3. Try adjusting the settings.
Check the mouse cable — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for
damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.
If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse directly to the
computer.
To verify that the problem is with the mouse, check the touch pad —
1. Shut down the computer.
2. Disconnect the mouse.
3. Turn on the computer.
4. At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and
open it.
If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.
Check the system setup program settings — Verify that the system setup program lists the
correct device for the pointing device option. (The computer automatically recognizes a USB
without making any setting adjustments.)
Test the mouse controller — To test the mouse controller (which affects pointer movement)
the operation of the touch pad or mouse buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing Devices
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External Keyboard Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
Unexpected Characters
group in the Dell Diagnostics.
Reinstall the touch pad driver — See "Reinstalling Software."
NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when working in MS-DOS® mode or when running the Dell
Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated
keyboard remains fully functional.
Check the keyboard cable — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and
it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.
If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to
computer.
Check the external keyboard —
1. Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.
2. Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the
boot routine.
3. From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to
Accessories, and click Notepad.
4. Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.
To verify that the problem is with the external keyboard, check the integrated
—
1. Shut down the computer.
2. Disconnect the external keyboard.
3. Turn on the computer.
4. From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to
Accessories, and click Notepad.
5. Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective
external keyboard.
Run the keyboard diagnostics tests — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell
Diagnostics. If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell.
Disable the numeric keypad — Press to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are
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Drive Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW
High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. The noise does not indicate a defect with the
drive or the CD.
If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray
If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound
displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.
NOTE: Because of different worldwide file types, not all DVD titles work in all DVD
Ensure that Windows recognizes the drive — In Windows XP, click the Start button and click
My Computer.In other operating systems, double-click My Computer. If the drive is not listed,
perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can
sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive. Insert a bootable disk and restart the
computer.
Try another disc — Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original disc is
defective.
Adjust the Windows volume control — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner
of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.
Reinstall the drive
1. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
2. Remove the drive. See "Using the Module Bay" for instructions.
3. Reinstall the drive.
4. Turn on the computer.
Clean the drive or disc — See "Cleaning Your Computer" for instructions.
Check the drive for errors
If a drive error message appears, see "Error Messages" for an explanation.
Run the IDE Drives tests as described in the Dell Diagnostics.
1. Ensure that the computer is shut down.
2. Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive;
firmly until the tray is partially ejected.
3. Gently pull out the tray until it stops.
zEnsure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.
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If the CD-RW or DVD+RW drive stops writing
If you have problems with a hard drive
PC Card Problems
Smart Card Problems
zEnsure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.
Disable standby or hibernate mode in Windows before writing to a CD-RW — Search for
the keyword standby or hibernate in Windows Help or the Windows Help and Support Center.
Change the write speed to a slower rate — See the help files for your CD or DVD creation
software.
Exit all other open programs — Exiting all other open programs before writing to the CD-RW
DVD+RW may alleviate the problem.
Allow the computer to cool before turning it on — A hot hard drive may prevent the
system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning
on.
Check the drive for errors —
zRun the Windows error-checking tool:
1. In Windows XP, click the Start button and click My Computer.In Windows 2000, double-
click My Computer.
2. Right-click the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and then click
Properties.
3. Click the Tools tab.
4. Under Error-checking, click Check Now.
5. Click Start.
zRun the IDE Drives tests as described in the Dell Diagnostics.
Check the PC Card — Ensure that the PC Card is properly inserted into the connector.
Ensure that the card is recognized by Windows — Double-click the Unplug or Eject
Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.
Run the PC Card diagnostics test — See the documentation that came with the PC Card for
instructions if a diagnostics test was provided with the card.
If you have problems with a Dell-provided PC Card — Contact Dell.
If you have problems with a PC Card not provided by Dell — Contact the PC Card
manufacturer.
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Network Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
General Program Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
A program crashes
A program stops responding
A solid blue screen appears
Check the smart card — Ensure that the smart card is properly inserted into the smart card
If you have problems with a Dell-provided smart card — Contact Dell.
If you have problems with a smart card not provided by Dell — Contact the smart card
manufacturer.
Check the network cable connector — Ensure that the network cable connector is firmly
connected to the connector on the computer and the network wall jack.
Check the network lights on the network connector — Green indicates that the network
connection is active. If the status light is not green, try replacing the network cable. Amber
indicates that the network adapter driver is loaded and the adapter is detecting activity.
Restart the computer — Try to log on to the network again.
Contact your network administrator — Verify that your network settings are correct and that
the network is functioning.
NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a
See the software documentation — Many software manufacturers maintain websites with
information that may help you solve the problem. Ensure that you properly installed and
configured the program. Reinstall the program if necessary.
End the program
1. Simultaneously press .
2. Click the Applications tab, and then select the program that is no longer responding.
3. Click End Task.
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Error messages appear
If Your Dell™ Computer Gets Wet
1. Shut down the computer, disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, and then disconnect the AC
adapter from the electrical outlet.
2. Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from
computer.
3. Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
4. Remove the module bay device and any installed PC Cards, and put them in a safe place to dry.
5. Remove the battery.
6. Wipe off the battery and put it in a safe place to dry.
7. Remove the hard drive.
8. Remove the memory module(s).
9. Open the display and place the computer right-side up across two books or similar props to let air
circulate all around it. Let the computer dry for at least 24 hours in a dry area at room temperature.
Turn the computer off — If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper
press the power button until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart
computer.
Windows XP
The computer restarts.
Windows 2000
The solid blue screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows
ScanDisk automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Review "Error Messages" — Look up the message and take the appropriate action. See the
software documentation.
Confirm that the problem is software-related — Run the System Board Devices tests in the
Dell Diagnostics. If all tests in the device group run successfully, the problem may be software-
related. See the software documentation.
CAUTION: Perform this procedure only after you are certain that it is safe to do so. If the
computer is connected to an electrical outlet, it is recommended that you turn off AC
the circuit breaker before attempting to remove the power cables from the electrical
Use the utmost caution when removing wet cables from a live power source.
NOTICE: Do not use artificial means, such as a hair dryer or a fan, to speed the drying
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10. Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
11. Replace the memory module(s), the memory module cover, and the screw(s).
12. Replace the hard drive.
13. Replace the module bay device and any PC Cards you removed.
14. Replace the battery.
15. Turn on the computer and verify that it is working properly.
If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, contact Dell.
If You Drop or Damage Your Computer
1. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
2. Disconnect the AC adapter from the computer and from the electrical outlet.
3. Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from
computer.
4. Remove and reinstall the battery.
5. Turn on the computer.
If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, contact Dell.
Resolving Other Technical Problems
CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is thoroughly dry before
continuing with the rest of this procedure.
NOTE: See your System Information Guide for information on your warranty
NOTE: See your System Information Guide for information on your warranty
Go to the Dell Support website — Go to support.dell.com for help with general usage,
installation, and troubleshooting questions. See "Getting Help" for a description of the hardware
and software support provided by Dell.
E-mail Dell — Go to support.dell.com and then click E-Mail Dell in the Communicate list.
Send an e-mail message to Dell about your problem; you can expect to receive an e-mail
from Dell within hours. See "Getting Help" for a description of the hardware and software
provided by Dell.
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Contact Dell — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell Support website
(support.dell.com) or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance. See "Getting Help" for a
description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.
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Using the Dell Diagnostics
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
Features of the Dell Diagnostics
Starting the Dell Diagnostics
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
Whenever a major component or device in your computer does not function properly, you may have a
component failure. If you are experiencing a problem with your Dell™ computer, perform the checks in
"Solving Problems" and run the Dell Diagnostics before you call Dell for technical assistance. Running the Dell
Diagnostics may help you to resolve the problem yourself quickly without having to contact Dell for
If you are experienced with computers and know what component(s) you need to test, select the
diagnostic test group(s) or subtest(s). If you are unsure about how to begin diagnosing a problem, see
"Starting the Dell Diagnostics."
Features of the Dell Diagnostics
The Dell Diagnostics helps you to check your computer hardware without any additional equipment and
without destroying any data. By using the diagnostics, you can have confidence in the operation of your
computer. If you find a problem that you cannot solve by yourself, the diagnostic tests can provide you with
important information you need when talking to Dell's service and support personnel.
The diagnostic test groups or subtests also have the following features:
zOptions that let you perform express, extended, or custom tests on one or all devices
zAn option that allows you to select tests based on a symptom of the problem you are having
zAn option that allows you to choose the number of times a test group or subtest is repeated
zThe ability to display test results
zOptions to temporarily suspend testing if an error is detected, or to terminate testing
zExtensive online Help that describes the tests and devices
zStatus messages that inform you whether test groups or subtests were completed successfully
zError messages that appear if any problems are detected
NOTICE: Use the Dell Diagnostics to test only your Dell computer. Using this program with other
computers may cause incorrect computer responses or result in error messages.
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Starting the Dell Diagnostics
The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden Diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
1. Shut down the computer.
2. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for instructions.
3. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
4. Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately. If you wait too long
the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut
down your computer and try again.
5. When the boot device list appears, highlight Diagnostics and press .
The computer begins to run the Pre-boot System Assessment, a series of embedded diagnostics that
perform initial testing on your system board, keyboard, hard drive, and display.
zDuring the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
zIf a component failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and
reboot to the operating system, press ; to continue to the next test, press ; to
the component that failed, press .
zIf failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s)
contact Dell before continuing on to the Dell Diagnostics.
zIf you receive a message stating that no Diagnostics utility partition has been found, follow the
instructions on the screen to run the Dell Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities CD.
If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you receive the message Booting Dell
Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue.
6. Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the Diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.
7. After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you
want.
NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact
NOTE: If you cannot see anything on your display, you can hold down the mute button and press the
power button (instead of F12) to begin the Dell Diagnostics. You do not need to highlight Diagnostics
and press . The computer automatically runs the Pre-boot System Assessment.
NOTE: The service tag for your computer is located in the title bar of each
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8. If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears, displaying the error code and a
of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the
screen. If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell.
9. If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab described in
the following table for more information.
10. When you have finished running a test, close the screen to return to the Main Menu screen. To exit the
Dell Diagnostics and reboot the computer, close the Main Menu screen.
Option Function
Express
Test
Performs a quick test of devices. The test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires no
interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the
quickly.
Extended
Test
Performs a thorough check of devices. The test typically takes 1 hour or more and requires you
to answer questions periodically.
Custom
Test
Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests to be run.
Symptom
Tree
Allows you to select tests based on a symptom of the problem you are experiencing. The
lists the most common symptoms.
Tab Function
Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered.
Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and problem description.
Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for running the test.
Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains your configuration information for all devices from the system
setup program, memory, and various internal tests and displays the information in the device
list in the left pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names of all the
components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.
Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test settings.
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Cleaning Your Computer
Preparing to Clean Your Computer
Computer, Keyboard, and Display
Touch Pad
Optical Media
Preparing to Clean Your Computer
1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu.
2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices
did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
3. Remove any installed batteries and disconnect the AC adapter.
Computer, Keyboard, and Display
zGently use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust from the slots and holes on your
computer and between the keys on the keyboard.
zMoisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water or an LCD cleaner, and wipe the display until it is clean.
zMoisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water or an LCD cleaner, and wipe the computer and keyboard. Do
not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.
Touch Pad
1. Shut down and turn off your computer, disconnect any attached devices, and disconnect them from
their electrical outlets.
2. Remove any installed batteries and disconnect the AC adapter.
3. Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and stroke it gently across the surface of the touch pad. Do
not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.
Optical Media
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer or display, do not spray cleaning solution directly onto the
display. Only use products specifically designed for cleaning LCDs, and follow the instructions that are
included with the product.
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If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try cleaning the
1. Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.
2. With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line
the center to the outer edge of the disc.
You can also purchase commercial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust,
fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are safe to use on DVDs.
3. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the drive, and follow the instructions that are
included with the compressed air. Never touch the lens in the drive.
NOTICE: To prevent damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the
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Reinstalling Software
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
Using Microsoft®Windows®System Restore
Reinstalling Microsoft®Windows®XP
Reinstalling Windows 2000
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers and utilities already installed—no further installation or
configuration is needed.
To reinstall drivers for optional devices such as wireless communications and DVD drives, you may need the
and documentation that came with those devices.
To reinstall a driver or utility from your Drivers and Utilities CD:
1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2. Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.
In most cases, the CD starts running automatically. If it does not, start Microsoft® Windows®
click your CD drive directory to display the CD contents, and then double-click the autorcd.exe file.
first time that you run the CD, it might prompt you to install setup files. Click OK, and follow the
instructions on the screen to continue.
3. From the Language drop-down menu in the toolbar, select your preferred language for the driver or
utility (if available).
A welcome screen appears.
4. Click Next. The CD automatically scans your hardware to detect drivers and utilities used by your
computer.
After the CD completes the hardware scan, you can also detect other drivers and utilities. Under
Criteria, select the appropriate categories from the System Model,Operating System, and Topic
drop-down menus.
A link or links appear(s) for the specific drivers and utilities used by your computer.
5. Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or utility that you want
to install.
NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your
computer. Ensure that you are installing software appropriate for your operating system.
NOTICE: The Dell Support website, support.dell.com, and the Drivers and Utilities CD provide
approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers from other sources, your computer might
work correctly.
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6. Click the Install button (if present) to begin installing the driver or utility. At the welcome screen,
the screen prompts to complete the installation.
If no Install button is present, automatic installation is not an option. For installation instructions,
see the appropriate instructions in the following subsections, or click Extract, follow the extracting
instructions, and read the readme file.
If instructed to navigate to the driver files, click the CD directory on the driver information window to
display the files associated with that driver.
Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows XP
1. After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described previously, click the Start button, point
Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Click the Start button and right-click My Computer.
3. Click Properties.
4. Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
5. Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example, Modems or
devices).
6. Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
7. Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.
8. Select Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click Next.
9. Click Browse, and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.
10. When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.
11. Click Finish and restart your computer.
Using the Windows XP Device Driver Rollback
If you install a new device driver that causes system instability, you can use the Windows XP Device Driver
Rollback to replace the new device driver with the previously installed version of the device driver. If you
reinstall your previous driver by using the Device Driver Rollback process, then use System Restore to return
your operating system to its previous operating state before you installed the new device driver. To use
Driver Rollback:
1. Click the Start button and right-click My Computer.
2. Click Properties.
3. Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
4. In the Device Manager window, right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and then
click Properties.
NOTE: If you are reinstalling an infrared-sensor driver, you must first enable the infrared sensor in the
system setup program before continuing with the driver installation.
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5. Click the Drivers tab.
6. Click Roll Back Driver.
Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows 2000
1. After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described previously, click the Start button, point
Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the System icon.
3. Click the Hardware tab.
4. Click Device Manager.
5. Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example, Modems or
devices).
6. Double-click the name of the device.
7. Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.
8. Click Next.
9. Ensure that Search for a suitable driver for my device (recommended) is selected, and then click
Next.
10. Ensure that the Specify a location check box is checked and that all other check boxes are unchecked,
and click Next.
11. Click Browse to browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.
12. When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.
13. Click Finish and restart your computer.
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
In the Microsoft® Windows® XP and Windows 2000 operating systems, IRQ conflicts occur if a device either is
not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured. See the following
subsection that corresponds to your operating system to check for IRQ conflicts on your computer.
Windows XP
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. Click Performance and Maintenance and click System.
3. Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
4. In the Device Manager list, check for conflicts with the other devices.
NOTE: If you are reinstalling an infrared driver, you must first enable the infrared sensor in the system
setup program before continuing with the driver installation.
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Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (!) beside the conflicting device or a red X if the
device has been disabled.
5. Double-click any conflicting device listed to bring up the Properties window so that you can determine
what needs to be reconfigured or removed from the Device Manager.
6. Resolve these conflicts before checking specific devices.
7. Double-click the malfunctioning device type in the Device Manager list.
8. Double-click the icon for the specific device in the expanded list.
The Properties window appears.
If an IRQ conflict exists, the Device status area in the Properties window reports what other devices
are sharing the device's IRQ.
9. Resolve any IRQ conflicts.
You can also use the Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter. To use the troubleshooter, click the Start button
and click Help and Support. Type hardware troubleshooter in the Search field, and then click the arrow
start the search. Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list. In the Hardware
Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer and click Next.
Windows 2000
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the System icon.
3. Click the Hardware tab.
4. Click Device Manager.
5. Click View and click Resources by connection.
6. Double-click Interrupt request (IRQ) to view the IRQ assignments.
Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (!) beside the conflicting device or a red X if the
device has been disabled.
7. Double-click any conflicting device listed to bring up the Properties window so that you can determine
what needs to be reconfigured or removed from the Device Manager. Resolve these conflicts before
checking specific devices.
8. Double-click the malfunctioning device type in the Device Manager list.
9. Double-click the icon for the specific device in the expanded list.
The Properties window appears.
If an IRQ conflict exists, the Device status area in the Properties window reports what other devices
are sharing the device's IRQ.
10. Resolve any IRQ conflicts.
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You can also use the Windows 2000 Hardware Troubleshooter. To use the troubleshooter, click the Start
and click Help. Click Troubleshooting and Maintenance on the Contents tab, click Windows 2000
troubleshooters, and then click Hardware. In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve
hardware conflict on my computer, and then click Next.
Using Microsoft® Windows® System Restore
The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides a System Restore feature that allows you to return your
computer to an earlier operating state if changes to the computer's hardware, software (including new
or program installations), or system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. You can
also undo the last system restore.
System Restore automatically creates system checkpoints. You can also manually create your own
by creating restore points. To limit the amount of hard disk space used, older restore points will be
automatically purged.
To resolve an operating system problem, you can use System Restore from Safe Mode or Normal Mode to
your computer to an earlier operating state.
System Restore does not cause you to lose personal files stored in the My Documents folder, data files, or
mail messages after restoring the computer to an earlier time. If you restore the computer to an operating
that existed before you installed a program, the program's data files are not lost, but you must reinstall the
actual program again.
System Restore is enabled on your new computer. However, if you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200
of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. Before you use System Restore,
confirm that it is enabled:
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2. Click the Performance and Maintenance.
3. Click System.
4. Click the System Restore tab.
5. Ensure that Turn off System Restore is not checked.
Creating a Restore Point
In Windows XP, you can either use the System Restore Wizard or manually create a restore point.
Using the System Restore Wizard
To use the System Restore Wizard, click the Start button, click Help and Support, click System Restore,
then follow the instructions in the System Restore Wizard window. You can also create and name a restore
point if you are logged on as the computer administrator or a user with administrator rights.
NOTICE: It is important to make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor
changes to or recover your data files. If the original data on the hard disk is accidentally erased or
overwritten, or if it becomes inaccessible because of a hard disk malfunction, use your backup files to
recover the lost or damaged data.
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Manually Creating a Restore Point
1. Click the Start button, point to All Programso
AccessoriesoSystem Tools, and then click System Restore.
2. Click Create a restore point.
3. Click Next.
4. Type a name for the new restore point in the Restore point description field.
The present date and time are automatically added to the description of the new restore point.
5. Click Create.
6. Click OK.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
If problems occur after installing a device driver, first try using Device Driver Rollback. If Device Driver
does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore.
1. Click the Start button, point to All Programso
AccessoriesoSystem Tools, and then click System Restore.
2. Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected and click Next.
3. Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
The Select a Restore Point screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore
All calendar dates with available restore points appear in bold.
4. Select a restore point and click Next.
If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected. If two
more restore points are available, click the restore point that you want to use.
5. Click Next.
In Windows XP, the Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting
and then the computer automatically restarts.
6. After the computer restarts, click OK.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you
undo the restoration.
NOTICE: Before restoring the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close all open files and
exit all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system
complete.
NOTICE: Save and close all open files and exit all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any
or programs until the system restoration is complete.
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Undoing the Last System Restore
1. Click the Start button, point to All Programso
AccessoriesoSystem Tools, and then click System Restore.
2. Select Undo my last restoration and click Next.
3. Click Next.
The System Restore screen appears, and then the computer automatically restarts.
4. After the computer restarts, click OK.
Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP
Before You Reinstall
If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly
driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback. If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the
problem, then use System Restore to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you
installed the new device driver.
Reinstalling Windows XP
To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which they are listed.
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you
also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.
Booting From the Operating System CD
1. Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2. Insert the Operating System CD. If any program starts automatically, exit the program before
NOTICE: Save and close all open files and exit all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any
or programs until the system restoration is complete.
NOTICE: Save and close all open files and exit all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any
or programs until the system restoration is complete.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can
overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall
Windows XP unless instructed to do so by a Dell technical support representative.
NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your
computer before you reinstall Windows XP. See the documentation that came with the software for
instructions.
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proceeding.
3. Shut down the computer through the Start menu and restart the computer.
4. Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the
computer and try again.
5. Press the arrow keys to select CD-ROM, and then press .
6. When the Press any key to boot from CD message appears, press any key.
Windows XP Setup
1. When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press to select To set up Windows now.
2. Read the information on the Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement screen, and press to
accept the license agreement.
3. If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to recover your current Windows XP
data, type r to select the repair option, and then remove the CD from the drive.
4. If you want to install a new copy of Windows XP, press to select that option.
5. Press to select the highlighted partition
(recommended), and then follow the instructions on the screen.
The Windows XP Setup screen appears, and the operating system begins to copy files and install the
devices. The computer automatically restarts multiple times.
6. When the Regional and Language Options screen appears, select the settings for your location, and
then click Next.
7. Enter your name and organization (optional) in the Personalize Your Software screen and click
8. If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition, at the What's your computer's name window,
a name for your computer (or accept the name provided) and click Next.
If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional, at the Computer Name and Administrator
window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the one provided) and a password, and then click
Next.
9. If the Modem Dialing Information screen appears, enter the requested information and click Next.
NOTE: The time required to complete the setup depends on the size of the hard drive and the speed of
your computer.
NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot from
the CD.
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10. Enter the date, time, and time zone in the Date and Time Settings window and click Next.
11. If the Networking Settings screen appears, click Typical and click Next.
12. If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional and you are prompted to provide further information
regarding your network configuration, enter your selections. If you are unsure of your settings, accept
the default selections.
Windows XP installs the operating system components and configures the computer. The computer
automatically restarts.
13. When the Welcome to Microsoft screen appears, click Next.
14. When the How will this computer connect to the Internet? message appears, click Skip.
15. When the Ready to register with Microsoft? screen appears, select No, not at this time and click
Next.
16. When the Who will use this computer? screen appears, you can enter up to five users. Click Next.
17. Click Finish to complete the setup, and remove the CD from the drive.
Reinstalling Drivers and Software
1. Reinstall the appropriate drivers.
2. Reinstall your virus protection software. See the documentation that came with the software for
instructions.
3. Reinstall your other software programs. See the documentation that came with the software for
instructions.
Reinstalling Windows 2000
Booting From the Operating System CD
1. Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2. Insert the Operating System CD. If any program starts automatically, exit the program before
proceeding.
3. Shut down the computer through the Start menu and restart the computer.
NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot from
the CD.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling the Windows 2000 operating
system. The options can potentially overwrite files installed by Dell and possibly affect programs
on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall your operating system unless instructed to do so by a
technical support representative.
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4. Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the
computer and try again.
5. Press the arrow keys to select CD-ROM, and then press .
6. When the Press any key to boot from CD message appears, press any key.
Windows 2000 Setup
1. When the Windows 2000 Setup window appears, ensure that To setup Win2000 now, press
is highlighted. Then press .
2. Read the information in the License Agreement window and press to continue.
3. When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup window appears, press the arrow keys to select the
Windows 2000 partition option that you want. Then press the key for the partition option you chose.
4. When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup window reappears, press the arrow keys to select the
type of file system that you want Windows 2000 to use, and then press .
5. Press again to restart your computer.
6. Click Next when the Welcome to the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard window appears.
7. When the Regional Settings window appears, select your region, and then click Next.
8. Enter your name and organization in the Personalize Your Software window and click Next.
9. Enter the Windows product key, which is printed on the Microsoft label on your computer. Then click
Next.
10. When the Computer Name and Administrator Password window appears, enter a name for your
computer and a password, if desired. Then click Next.
11. Enter the date and time in the Date and Time Settings window and click Next.
Windows 2000 installs components and configures the computer.
12. When the Completing the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard window appears, remove the CD from the
drive and click Finish.
The computer automatically restarts.
Enabling Hibernate Mode
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings and click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Power Management icon.
3. Click the Hibernate tab.
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4. Ensure that Enable hibernate support is selected and click Apply.
5. Click OK to close the Control Panel.
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Adding and Replacing Parts
Adding Memory
Adding a Mini PCI Card
Adding a Modem
Replacing the Hard Drive
Replacing the Bluetooth™Card
Connecting a Television to the Computer
Adding Memory
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See
"Specifications" for information on the memory supported by your computer. Install only memory modules
are intended for your computer.
1. Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer cover.
2. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut down the computer.
3. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking station for instructions.
4. Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
5. Wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then disconnect any attached devices.
6. Remove any installed PC Cards, batteries, and module bay devices.
7. Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screw from the memory module cover, and then remove
cover.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your System
Information Guide.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts. Ground
yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer. Continue to ground yourself
periodically during this procedure.
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8. If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:
a. Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory
connector until the module pops up.
b. Remove the module from the connector.
1captive screw
2memory module cover
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the
module securing clips.
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9. Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
a. Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.
b. Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down until it
clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.
10. Replace the cover.
1securing clips (2 per
connector)
2memory module
NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the
connector labeled "DIMM A" before you install a module in the connector labeled "DIMM B." Insert
memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error
message indicates this failure.
NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close
may damage your computer.
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11. Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical
outlet.
12. Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration
information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer:
zIn the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system, click the Start button, click Help and Support,
then click Computer Information.
zIn Windows 2000, right-click the My Computer icon on your desktop, and then click the General tab.
Adding a Mini PCI Card
If you ordered a Mini PCI card with your computer, the card is already installed.
1. Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer cover.
2. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut down the computer.
3. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking station for instructions.
1captive screw
2memory module cover
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your System
Information Guide.
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4. Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
5. Wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then disconnect any attached devices.
6. Remove any installed PC Cards, batteries, and module bay devices.
7. Turn the computer over.
8. Loosen the captive screw from the Mini PCI card/modem cover, and remove the cover.
9. If a Mini PCI card is not already installed, go to step 10. If you are replacing a Mini PCI card, remove
existing card:
a. Disconnect the Mini PCI card from any attached cables.
b. Release the Mini PCI card by spreading the metal securing tabs until the card pops up slightly.
c. Lift the Mini PCI card out of its connector.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts. Ground
yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer. Continue to ground yourself
periodically during this procedure.
1captive screw
2Mini PCI card/modem cover
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10. Align the Mini PCI card with the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the Mini PCI card into the
connector until you feel a click.
11. Connect the antenna cables to the Mini PCI.
1Mini PCI card connector
2Mini PCI card
3antenna cables (2)
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the Mini PCI card, never place cables on top of or under the
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the
connectors and realign the card.
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12. Replace the cover and tighten the screw.
Adding a Modem
If you ordered the optional modem at the same time that you ordered your computer, Dell installed the
for you.
1. Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer cover.
2. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
3. If the computer is docked, undock it.
4. Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
5. Wait 10 to 20 seconds and then disconnect any attached devices.
6. Remove any installed PC Cards, batteries, and devices.
7. Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer, and continue to do so
periodically during this procedure.
8. Turn the computer over, and loosen the captive screw from the Mini PCI card/modem cover.
1Mini PCI card
2antenna cables (2)
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your System
Information Guide.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and
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9. If a modem is not already installed, go to step 10. If you are replacing a modem, remove the existing
modem:
a. Remove the screws securing the modem to the system board, and set it aside.
b. Pull straight up on the attached pull-tab to lift the modem out of its connector on the system
board, and disconnect the modem cable.
1captive screw
2Mini PCI card/modem cover
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10. Connect the modem cable to the modem.
11. Align the modem with the screw hole, and press the modem into the connector on the system board.
12. Install the screw to secure the modem to the system board.
13. Replace the Mini PCI card/modem cover.
Replacing the Hard Drive
To replace the hard drive in the hard drive bay:
1. Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer cover.
2. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut down the computer.
3. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking station for instructions.
4. Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
5. Wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then disconnect any attached devices.
6. Remove any installed PC Cards, batteries, and module bay devices.
1modem cable
2modem
3pull-tab
4screw
5system board connector
NOTICE: The cable connectors are keyed for correct insertion; do not force the
CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot, do not
the metal housing of the hard drive.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your System
Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, shut down your computer before removing the hard drive. Do not
the hard drive while the computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate mode.
NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile; even a slight bump can damage the
NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than
Dell.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts. Ground
yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer. Continue to ground yourself
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7. Turn the computer over, and remove the hard drive screw.
8. Slide the hard drive out of the computer.
9. Remove the new drive from its packaging.
Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.
10. Slide the hard drive into the bay until it is fully seated.
11. Replace and tighten the screw.
12. Use the Operating System CD to install the operating system for your computer.
13. Use the Drivers and Utilities CD to install the drivers and utilities for your computer.
Replacing the Bluetooth™ Card
If you ordered a Bluetooth card with your computer, the card is already installed.
periodically during this procedure.
1hard drive screw
NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. For
precautions on preventing electrostatic discharge, see the safety instructions in the System
Guide.
NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may
damage the connector.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your System
Information Guide.
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1. Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer cover.
2. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut down the computer.
3. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for instructions.
4. Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
5. Wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then disconnect any attached devices.
6. Remove any installed PC Cards, batteries, and module bay devices.
7. Remove the hard drive.
8. Pull the Bluetooth card connector out of the system board connector.
9. Pull the cable to remove the Bluetooth card from the computer.
Connecting a Television to the Computer
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts. Ground
yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer. Continue to ground yourself
periodically during this procedure.
1Bluetooth card
2system board connector
3Bluetooth card connector
4cable
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Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with the included TV/digital audio adapter
enables you to connect the computer to a television and/or stereo audio device. The TV/digital audio adapter
cable provides connections for S-video, composite video, and S/PDIF digital audio.
For televisions and audio devices without support for S/PDIF digital audio, you can use the audio connector on
the side of the computer to connect the computer to your television or audio device.
It is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the following
combinations:
zS-video and standard audio
zS-video and digital audio
zComposite video and standard audio
zComposite video and digital audio
When you complete the cable connection, see "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" to ensure that
computer recognizes and works properly with the television. Additionally, if you are using S/PDIF digital
see "Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio".
S-Video and Standard Audio
NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a television are not included with your
computer. Cables may be purchased at most consumer electronics stores.
1S-video TV-out connector
2TV/digital audio adapter
cable
3S/PDIF digital audio
connector
4composite video connector
5S-video connector
NOTE: Diagrams for each connection combination appear at the beginning of each subsection to help
determine which method you should use.
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Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:
1. Turn off the computer and the television and/or audio device you want to connect.
2. Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.
3. Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video connector on the TV/digital audio adapter cable.
1TV/digital audio adapter
cable
2S-video cable
3audio cable
NOTE: You can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video connector on the computer (without
video adapter cable) if your television or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio.
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4. Plug the other end of the S-video cable in to your television.
5. Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable in to the headphone connector on your computer.
6. Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the audio input connectors on
television or other audio device.
7. Turn on the television and any audio device you connected, and then turn on the computer.
8. See "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" to ensure that the computer recognizes and works
properly with the television.
S-Video and Digital Audio
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Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:
1. Turn off the computer and the television and/or audio device you want to connect.
2. Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.
3. Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video connector on the TV/digital audio adapter cable.
4. Plug the other end of the S-video cable in to the S-video connector on the television.
5. Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the digital audio connector on the TV/digital audio
adapter cable.
6. Plug the other end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the audio input connector on your television or
1TV/digital audio adapter
cable
2S-video cable
3S/PDIF digital audio cable
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other audio device.
Composite Video and Standard Audio
Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:
1. Turn off the computer and the television and/or audio device you want to connect.
2. Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.
3. Plug one end of the composite video cable in to the composite video connector on the TV/digital audio
adapter cable.
1TV/digital audio adapter
cable
2composite video cable
3audio cable
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4. Plug the other end of the composite video cable in to the composite video connector on the television.
5. Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable in to the headphone connector on the computer.
6. Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the audio input connectors on
television or other audio device.
Composite Video and Digital Audio
Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:
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1. Turn off the computer and the television and/or audio device you want to connect.
2. Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.
3. Plug one end of the composite video cable in to the composite video connector on the TV/digital audio
adapter cable.
4. Plug the other end of the composite video cable in to the composite video connector on the television.
5. Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the S/PDIF audio connector on the TV/digital audio
adapter cable.
6. Plug the other end of the digital audio cable in to the S/PDIF connector on your television or other audio
device.
1TV/digital audio adapter
cable
2composite video cable
3S/PDIF digital audio cable
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Enabling the Display Settings for a Television
NVIDIA Video Controller
1. Open the Control Panel window.
In Windows XP, click the Start button and then click the Control Panel icon.
In Windows 2000, click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Display icon, click the Settings tab, and then click Advanced.
3. Click the TwinView tab.
4. Click the Clone button to enable the television.
5. Click Apply.
6. Click OK to confirm the settings change.
7. Click Yes to keep the new settings.
8. Click OK.
Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio
To enable Dolby Digital 5.1 audio for DVD playback, see "Enabling Dolby Digital 5.1 Audio for DVD Playback."
Enabling Dolby Digital 5.1 Audio for DVD Playback
If your computer has a DVD drive, you can enable Dolby Digital 5.1 audio for DVD playback.
1. Double-click the InterVideo WinDVD icon on the Windows desktop.
2. Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.
If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.
NOTE: Ensure that you properly connect the television before you enable the display
NOTE: Various programs access the hardware in different ways. You may or may not need to click the
primary button for operations other than playing DVDs.
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3. Click the Properties (wrench) icon.
4. Click the Audio tab.
5. Click Enable S/PDIF output.
6. Click Apply.
7. Click OK.
Enabling S/PDIF in the Windows Audio Driver
1. Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area.
2. Click the Options menu and then click Advanced Controls.
3. Click Advanced.
NOTE: Enabling S/PDIF in Windows disables the sound from the headphone
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4. Click Enable S/PDIF.
5. Click Close.
6. Click OK.
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Using the System Setup Program
Overview
Viewing the System Setup Screens
System Setup Screens
Commonly Used Options
Overview
You can use the system setup program as follows:
zTo set or change user-selectable features—for example, your computer password
zTo verify information about the computer's current configuration, such as the amount of system
After you set up the computer, run the system setup program to familiarize yourself with your system
configuration information and optional settings. You may want to write down the information for future
reference.
The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer, such as:
zSystem configuration
zBoot order
zBoot (start-up) configuration and docking-device configuration settings
zBasic device configuration settings
zSystem security and hard-drive password settings
Viewing the System Setup Screens
1. Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2. When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately. If you wait too long and the Windows logo
appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try
again.
NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in the system
setup program, thus overriding options that you set through the system setup program. (An
the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through the system setup
For more information on configuring features for your operating system, see your Microsoft®
Help or the Windows Help and Support Center.
NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do
not change the settings for the system setup program. Certain changes might make your computer
incorrectly.
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System Setup Screens
On each screen, the system setup options are listed at the left. To the right of each option is the setting or
for that option. You can change settings that appear as white type on the screen. Options or values that you
cannot change (because they are determined by the computer) appear less bright.
The upper-right corner of the screen displays help information for the currently highlighted option; the lower-
right corner displays information about the computer. System setup key functions are listed across the bottom
of the screen.
Commonly Used Options
Certain options require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect.
Changing the Boot Sequence
The boot sequence, or boot order, tells the computer where to look to find the software needed to start the
operating system. You can control the boot sequence and enable/disable devices using the Boot Order page
the system setup program.
The Boot Order page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your computer,
including but not limited to the following:
zDiskette Drive
zModular bay HDD
zInternal HDD
zCD/DVD/CD-RW drive
During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device for the
operating system start-up files. When the computer finds the files, it stops searching and starts the
system.
To control the boot devices, select (highlight) a device by pressing the or key, and then enable
disable the device or change its order in the list.
zTo enable or disable a device, highlight the item and press . Enabled items appear as
white and display a small triangle to the left; disabled items appear blue or dimmed without a triangle.
zTo reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and then press or (not case-sensitive)
move the highlighted device up or down.
NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a One-Time
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Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit the system setup program.
Performing a One-Time Boot
You can set a one-time-only boot sequence without entering the system setup program. (You can also use this
procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.)
1. Turn off the computer.
2. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for instructions.
3. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
4. Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press immediately. If you wait too long and
the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your
computer and try again.
5. When the boot device list appears, highlight the device from which you want to boot and press
.
The computer boots to the selected device.
The next time you reboot the computer, the previous boot order is restored.
Changing Printer Modes
Set the Parallel Mode option according to the type of printer or device connected to the parallel connector.
determine the correct mode to use, see the documentation that came with the device.
Setting Parallel Mode to Disabled disables the parallel port and the port's LPT address, freeing computer
resources for another device to use.
Changing COM Ports
Serial Port allows you to map the serial port COM address or disable the serial port and its address, freeing
computer resources for another device to use.
Enabling the Infrared Sensor
1. Enter the system setup program:
a. Turn on your computer.
b. Press when the DELL™ logo appears.
2. Press until you locate
Infrared Data Port under Basic Device Configuration.
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3. Press the down-arrow key to select the Infrared Data Port setting, and press the right-arrow key to
change the setting to a COM port.
4. Press the down-arrow key to select the Infrared Mode setting, and press the right-arrow key to
the setting to Fast IR or Slow IR.
It is recommended that you use Fast IR. If the infrared device cannot communicate with your
shut down the computer and repeat steps 1 through 5 to change the setting to Slow IR.
5. Press and then click Yes to save the changes and exit the system setup program. If you are
prompted to restart your computer, click Yes.
6. Follow the instructions on the screen.
7. After the infrared sensor has been enabled, click Yes to restart the computer.
After you enable the infrared sensor, you can use it to establish a link to an infrared device. To set up and
an infrared device, see the infrared device documentation and the Microsoft® Windows® Help and Support
Center (Windows Help in Windows 2000).
NOTE: Ensure that the COM port that you select is different from the COM port assigned to the serial
connector.
NOTE: If neither Fast IR nor Slow IR work, contact the infrared device
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Alert Standard Format (ASF)
ASF is a DMTF management standard that specifies "pre-operating system" or "operating system absent"
alerting techniques. The standard is designed to generate an alert on potential security and fault conditions
when the operating system is in a sleep state or the system is turned off. ASF is designed to supersede
operating system-absent alerting technologies.
Your computer supports the following ASF alerts and remote capabilities:
For more information about Dell's ASF implementation, see ASF for Dell Portable Computers and the ASF
A
dministrator's Guide for Dell Portable Computers, which are available on the Dell Support website at
support.dell.com.
Alert Description
Chassis Intrusion – Physical Security Violation/Chassis
Intrusion – Physical Security Violation Event Cleared
The docking device has been opened
the PCI slot has been compromised.
Failure to Boot to BIOS The BIOS did not complete loading upon
initiation.
System Password Violation The system password is invalid (alert
occurs after three failed attempts).
Entity Presence Periodic heartbeats have been
transmitted to verify system presence.
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Getting Help
Technical Assistance
Problems With Your Order
Product Information
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
Before You Call
Contacting Dell
Technical Assistance
If you need help with a technical problem, Dell is ready to assist you.
1. Complete the procedures in "Solving Problems."
2. Run the Dell Diagnostics.
3. Make a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist and fill it out.
4. Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support (support.dell.com) for help with
installation and troubleshooting procedures.
5. If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, contact Dell.
NOTE: Call technical support from a telephone near or at the computer so that technical support can assist
you with any necessary procedures.
NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.
When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express Service Code to route the
call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do not have an Express Service Code, open the
Accessories folder, double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.
For instructions on using the technical support service, see "Technical Support Service."
NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S. Call
your local Dell representative for information on availability.
Online Services
You can access Dell Support at support.dell.com. Select your region on the WELCOME TO DELL SUPPORT
page, and fill in the requested details to access help tools and information.
You can contact Dell electronically using the following addresses:
zWorld Wide Web
CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer covers, first disconnect the computer power
and modem cables from all electrical outlets.
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www.dell.com/
www.dell.com/ap/ (for Asian/Pacific countries only)
www.euro.dell.com (for Europe only)
www.dell.com/la/ (for Latin American countries)
zAnonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)
ftp.dell.com/
Log in as user: anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.
zElectronic Support Service
mobile_support@us.dell.com
support@us.dell.com
apsupport@dell.com (for Asian/Pacific countries only)
support.euro.dell.com (for Europe only)
zElectronic Quote Service
sales@dell.com
apmarketing@dell.com (for Asian/Pacific countries only)
zElectronic Information Service
info@dell.com
AutoTech Service
Dell's automated technical support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most
frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and desktop computers.
When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your
questions.
The AutoTech service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also access this service through the
technical support service. For the telephone number to call, see the contact numbers for your region.
Automated Order-Status Service
To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you
call the automated order-status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and
report on your order. For the telephone number to call, see the contact numbers for your region.
Technical Support Service
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Dell's technical support service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to answer your questions about
hardware. Our technical support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers.
To contact Dell's technical support service, see "Technical Assistance" and then call the number for your
as listed in "Contacting Dell."
Problems With Your Order
If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing, contact Dell for
customer assistance. Have your invoice or packing slip handy when you call. For the telephone number to call,
see the contact numbers for your region.
Product Information
If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order,
the Dell website at www.dell.com. For the telephone number to call to speak to a sales specialist, see the
contact numbers for your region.
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:
1. Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly and prominently on the
outside of the box.
For the telephone number to call, see the contact numbers for your region.
2. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.
3. Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist indicating the tests you have run and any error messages
reported by the Dell Diagnostics.
4. Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (power cables, software floppy
guides, and so on) if the return is for credit.
5. Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing materials.
You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product returned,
and you assume the risk of loss during shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not
accepted.
Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at Dell's receiving dock and
to you.
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Before You Call
NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell's automated-support
telephone system direct your call more efficiently.
Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for
technical assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some
commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps
possible only at the computer itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is available.
Contacting Dell
To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:
zwww.dell.com
zsupport.dell.com (technical support)
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your System
Information Guide.
Diagnostics Checklist
Name:
Date:
Address:
Phone number:
Service tag (bar code on the back of the computer):
Express Service Code:
Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):
Operating system and version:
Devices:
Expansion cards:
Are you connected to a network? Yes No
Network, version, and network adapter:
Programs and versions:
See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system's start-up files. If the
computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling
Dell.
Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:
Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:
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zpremiersupport.dell.com (technical support for educational, government, healthcare, and
medium/large business customers, including Premier, Platinum, and Gold customers)
For specific web addresses for your country, find the appropriate country section in the table below.
NOTE: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed.
When you need to contact Dell, use the electronic addresses, telephone numbers, and codes provided in the
following table. If you need assistance in determining which codes to use, contact a local or an international
operator.
Country (City)
International
Code Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Anguilla General Support toll-free: 800-335-0031
Antigua and
Barbuda
General Support 1-800-805-5924
Argentina (Buenos
Aires)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 54
City Code: 11
Website: www.dell.com.ar
Tech Support and Customer Care toll-free: 0-800-444-0733
Sales 0-810-444-3355
Tech Support Fax 11 4515 7139
Customer Care Fax 11 4515 7138
Aruba General Support toll-free: 800-1578
Australia (Sydney)
International Access
Code: 0011
Country Code: 61
City Code: 2
E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com
E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com
Home and Small Business 1-300-65-55-33
Government and Business toll-free: 1-800-633-559
Preferred Accounts Division (PAD) toll-free: 1-800-060-889
Customer Care toll-free: 1-800-819-339
Corporate Sales toll-free: 1-800-808-385
Transaction Sales toll-free: 1-800-808-312
Fax toll-free: 1-800-818-341
Austria (Vienna)
International Access
Code: 900
Country Code: 43
City Code: 1
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com
Home/Small Business Sales 01 795 67602
Home/Small Business Fax 01 795 67605
Home/Small Business Customer Care 01 795 67603
Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care 0660 8056
Home/Small Business Technical Support 01 795 67604
Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support 0660 8779
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Switchboard 01 491 04 0
Bahamas General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6818
Barbados General Support 1-800-534-3066
Belgium (Brussels)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 32
City Code: 2
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_be@dell.com
E-mail for French Speaking Customers:
support.euro.dell.com/be/fr/emaildell/
Technical Support 02 481 92 88
Customer Care 02 481 91 19
Home/Small Business Sales toll-free: 0800 16884
Corporate Sales 02 481 91 00
Fax 02 481 92 99
Switchboard 02 481 91 00
Bermuda General Support 1-800-342-0671
Bolivia General Support toll-free: 800-10-0238
Brazil
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 55
City Code: 51
Website: www.dell.com/br
Customer Support, Technical Support 0800 90 3355
Tech Support Fax 51 481 5470
Customer Care Fax 51 481 5480
Sales 0800 90 3390
British Virgin
Islands
General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6820
Brunei
Country Code: 673
Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4966
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949
Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4955
Canada (North York,
Ontario)
International Access
Code: 011
Automated Order-Status System toll-free: 1-800-433-9014
AutoTech (automated technical support) toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
TechFax toll-free: 1-800-950-1329
Customer Care (home/small business) toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Customer Care (med./large business, government) toll-free: 1-800-326-9463
Technical Support (home/small business) toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Technical Support (med./large bus., government) toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Sales (direct sales—from outside Toronto) toll-free: 1-800-387-5752
Sales (direct sales—from within Toronto) 416 758-2200
Sales (federal government, education, and medical) toll-free: 1-800-567-7542
Cayman Islands General Support 1-800-805-7541
Chile (Santiago) Sales, Customer Support, and Technical Support toll-free: 1230-020-4823
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Country Code: 56
City Code: 2
China (Xiamen)
Country Code: 86
City Code: 592
Tech Support website: support.ap.dell.com/china
Tech Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.com
Tech Support Fax 818 1350
Home and Small Business Technical Support toll-free: 800 858 2437
Corporate Accounts Technical Support toll-free: 800 858 2333
Customer Experience toll-free: 800 858 2060
Home and Small Business toll-free: 800 858 2222
Preferred Accounts Division toll-free: 800 858 2062
Large Corporate Accounts GCP toll-free: 800 858 2055
Large Corporate Accounts Key Accounts toll-free: 800 858 2628
Large Corporate Accounts North toll-free: 800 858 2999
Large Corporate Accounts North Government and
Education
toll-free: 800 858 2955
Large Corporate Accounts East toll-free: 800 858 2020
Large Corporate Accounts East Government and
Education
toll-free: 800 858 2669
Large Corporate Accounts Queue Team toll-free: 800 858 2572
Large Corporate Accounts South toll-free: 800 858 2355
Large Corporate Accounts West toll-free: 800 858 2811
Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts toll-free: 800 858 2621
Colombia General Support 980-9-15-3978
Costa Rica General Support 0800-012-0435
Czech Republic
(Prague)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 420
City Code: 2
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com
Technical Support 02 22 83 27 27
Customer Care 02 22 83 27 11
Fax 02 22 83 27 14
TechFax 02 22 83 27 28
Switchboard 02 22 83 27 11
Denmark
(Copenhagen)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 45
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail Support (portable computers):
den_nbk_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (desktop computers):
den_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (servers):
Nordic_server_support@dell.com
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Technical Support 7023 0182
Customer Care (Relational) 7023 0184
Home/Small Business Customer Care 3287 5505
Switchboard (Relational) 3287 1200
Fax Switchboard (Relational) 3287 1201
Switchboard (Home/Small Business) 3287 5000
Fax Switchboard (Home/Small Business) 3287 5001
Dominica General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6821
Dominican Republic General Support 1-800-148-0530
Ecuador General Support toll-free: 999-119
El Salvador General Support 01-899-753-0777
Finland (Helsinki)
International Access
Code: 990
Country Code: 358
City Code: 9
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: fin_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (servers): Nordic_support@dell.com
Technical Support 09 253 313 60
Technical Support Fax 09 253 313 81
Relational Customer Care 09 253 313 38
Home/Small Business Customer Care 09 693 791 94
Fax 09 253 313 99
Switchboard 09 253 313 00
France (Paris)
(Montpellier)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 33
City Codes: (1) (4)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/
Home and Small Business
Technical Support 0825 387 270
Customer Care 0825 823 833
Switchboard 0825 004 700
Switchboard (calls from outside of France) 04 99 75 40 00
Sales 0825 004 700
Fax 0825 004 701
Fax (calls from outside of France) 04 99 75 40 01
Corporate
Technical Support 0825 004 719
Customer Care 0825 338 339
Switchboard 01 55 94 71 00
Sales 01 55 94 71 00
Fax 01 55 94 71 01
Germany (Langen) Website: support.euro.dell.com
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International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 49
City Code: 6103
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com
Technical Support 06103 766-7200
Home/Small Business Customer Care 0180-5-224400
Global Segment Customer Care 06103 766-9570
Preferred Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9420
Large Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9560
Public Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9555
Switchboard 06103 766-7000
Grenada General Support toll-free: 1-866-540-3355
Guatemala General Support 1-800-999-0136
Guyana General Support toll-free: 1-877-270-4609
Hong Kong
International Access
Code: 001
Country Code: 852
Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™) 296 93188
Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell
Precision™)
296 93191
Customer Service (non-technical, post-sales issues) 800 93 8291
Transaction Sales toll-free: 800 96 4109
Large Corporate Accounts HK toll-free: 800 96 4108
Large Corporate Accounts GCP HK toll-free: 800 90 3708
India Technical Support 1600 33 8045
Sales 1600 33 8044
Ireland
(Cherrywood)
International Access
Code: 16
Country Code: 353
City Code: 1
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
Ireland Technical Support 1850 543 543
U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only) 0870 908 0800
Home User Customer Care 01 204 4095
Small Business Customer Care 01 204 4444
U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only) 0870 906 0010
Corporate Customer Care 01 204 4003
Ireland Sales 01 204 4444
U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only) 0870 907 4000
SalesFax 01 204 0144
Fax 01 204 5960
Switchboard 01 204 4444
Italy (Milan)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 39
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/it/it/emaildell/
Home and Small Business
Technical Support 02 577 826 90
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City Code: 02 Customer Care 02 696 821 14
Fax 02 696 821 13
Switchboard 02 696 821 12
Corporate
Technical Support 02 577 826 90
Customer Care 02 577 825 55
Fax 02 575 035 30
Switchboard 02 577 821
Jamaica General Support (dial from within Jamaica only) 1-800-682-3639
Japan (Kawasaki)
International Access
Code: 001
Country Code: 81
City Code: 44
Website: support.jp.dell.com
Technical Support (servers) toll-free: 0120-198-498
Technical Support outside of Japan (servers) 81-44-556-4162
Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™) toll-free: 0120-198-226
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and
Inspiron)
81-44-520-1435
Technical Support (Dell Precision™, OptiPlex™, and
Latitude™)
toll-free:0120-198-433
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision,
OptiPlex, and Latitude)
81-44-556-3894
24-Hour Automated Order Service 044-556-3801
Customer Care 044-556-4240
Business Sales Division (up to 400 employees) 044-556-1465
Preferred Accounts Division Sales (over 400
employees)
044-556-3433
Large Corporate Accounts Sales (over 3500
employees)
044-556-3430
Public Sales (government agencies, educational
institutions, and medical institutions)
044-556-1469
Global Segment Japan 044-556-3469
Individual User 044-556-1760
Faxbox Service 044-556-3490
Switchboard 044-556-4300
Korea (Seoul)
International Access
Code: 001
Country Code: 82
City Code: 2
Technical Support toll-free: 080-200-3800
Sales toll-free: 080-200-3600
Customer Service (Seoul, Korea) toll-free: 080-200-3800
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949
Fax 2194-6202
Switchboard 2194-6000
Latin America Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4093
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Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-3619
Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service)
Texas, U.S.A.)
512 728-3883
Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4397
SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4600
or 512 728-3772
Luxembourg
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 352
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_be@dell.com
Technical Support (Brussels, Belgium) 02 481 92 88
Home/Small Business Sales (Brussels, Belgium) toll-free: 080016884
Corporate Sales (Brussels, Belgium) 02 481 91 00
Customer Care (Brussels, Belgium) 02 481 91 19
Fax (Brussels, Belgium) 02 481 92 99
Switchboard (Brussels, Belgium) 02 481 91 00
Macao
Country Code: 853
Technical Support toll-free: 0800 582
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949
Transaction Sales toll-free: 0800 581
Malaysia (Penang)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 60
City Code: 4
Technical Support toll-free: 1 800 888 298
Customer Service 04 633 4949
Transaction Sales toll-free: 1 800 888 202
Corporate Sales toll-free: 1 800 888 213
Mexico
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 52
Customer Technical Support 001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383
Sales 50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355
Customer Service 001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383
Main 50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355
Montserrat General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6822
Netherlands Antilles General Support 001-800-882-1519
Netherlands
(Amsterdam)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail (Technical Support):
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International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 31
City Code: 20
(Enterprise): nl_server_support@dell.com
(Latitude): nl_latitude_support@dell.com
(Inspiron): nl_inspiron_support@dell.com
(Dimension): nl_dimension_support@dell.com
(OptiPlex): nl_optiplex_support@dell.com
(Dell Precision): nl_workstation_support@dell.com
Technical Support 020 674 45 00
Technical Support Fax 020 674 47 66
Home/Small Business Customer Care 020 674 42 00
Relational Customer Care 020 674 4325
Home/Small Business Sales 020 674 55 00
Relational Sales 020 674 50 00
Home/Small Business Sales Fax 020 674 47 75
Relational Sales Fax 020 674 47 50
Switchboard 020 674 50 00
Switchboard Fax 020 674 47 50
New Zealand
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 64
E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com
E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com
Home and Small Business 0800 446 255
Government and Business 0800 444 617
Sales 0800 441 567
Fax 0800 441 566
Nicaragua General Support 001-800-220-1006
Norway (Lysaker)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 47
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail Support (portable computers):
nor_nbk_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (desktop computers):
nor_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (servers):
nordic_server_support@dell.com
Technical Support 671 16882
Relational Customer Care 671 17514
Home/Small Business Customer Care 23162298
Switchboard 671 16800
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Fax Switchboard 671 16865
Panama General Support 001-800-507-0962
Peru General Support 0800-50-669
Poland (Warsaw)
International Access
Code: 011
Country Code: 48
City Code: 22
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: pl_support@dell.com
Customer Service Phone 57 95 700
Customer Care 57 95 999
Sales 57 95 999
Customer Service Fax 57 95 806
Reception Desk Fax 57 95 998
Switchboard 57 95 999
Portugal
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 35
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/es/es/emaildell/
Technical Support 800 834 077
Customer Care 800 300 415 or
800 834 075
Sales 800 300 410 or
800 300 411 or
800 300 412 or
121 422 07 10
Fax 121 424 01 12
Puerto Rico General Support 1-800-805-7545
St. Kitts and Nevis General Support toll-free: 1-877-441-4731
St. Lucia General Support 1-800-882-1521
St. Vincent and the
Grenadines
General Support toll-free: 1-877-270-4609
Singapore
(Singapore)
International Access
Code: 005
Country Code: 65
Technical Support toll-free: 800 6011 051
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949
Transaction Sales toll-free: 800 6011 054
Corporate Sales toll-free: 800 6011 053
South Africa
(Johannesburg)
International Access
Code:
09/091
Country Code: 27
City Code: 11
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com
Technical Support 011 709 7710
Customer Care 011 709 7707
Sales 011 709 7700
Fax 011 706 0495
Switchboard 011 709 7700
Southeast Asian and Customer Technical Support, Customer Service, and 604 633 4810
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Pacific Countries Sales (Penang, Malaysia)
Spain (Madrid)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 34
City Code: 91
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/es/es/emaildell/
Home and Small Business
Technical Support 902 100 130
Customer Care 902 118 540
Sales 902 118 541
Switchboard 902 118 541
Fax 902 118 539
Corporate
Technical Support 902 100 130
Customer Care 902 118 546
Switchboard 91 722 92 00
Fax 91 722 95 83
Sweden (Upplands
Vasby)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 46
City Code: 8
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: swe_support@dell.com
E-mail Support for Latitude and Inspiron:
Swe-nbk_kats@dell.com
E-mail Support for OptiPlex: Swe_kats@dell.com
E-mail Support for Servers:
Nordic_server_support@dell.com
Technical Support 08 590 05 199
Relational Customer Care 08 590 05 642
Home/Small Business Customer Care 08 587 70 527
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support 20 140 14 44
Fax Technical Support 08 590 05 594
Sales 08 590 05 185
Switzerland
(Geneva)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 41
City Code: 22
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: swisstech@dell.com
E-mail for French-speaking HSB and Corporate
Customers:
support.euro.dell.com/ch/fr/emaildell/
Technical Support (Home and Small Business) 0844 811 411
Technical Support (Corporate) 0844 822 844
Customer Care (Home and Small Business) 0848 802 202
Customer Care (Corporate) 0848 821 721
Fax 022 799 01 90
Switchboard 022 799 01 01
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Taiwan
International Access
Code: 002
Country Code: 886
Technical Support (portable and desktop computers) toll-free: 00801 86 1011
Technical Support (servers) toll-free: 0080 60 1256
Transaction Sales toll-free: 0080 651 228
or 0800 33 556
Corporate Sales toll-free: 0080 651 227
or 0800 33 555
Thailand
International Access
Code: 001
Country Code: 66
Technical Support toll-free: 0880 060 07
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949
Sales toll-free: 0880 060 09
Trinidad/Tobago General Support 1-800-805-8035
Turks and Caicos
Islands
General Support toll-free: 1-866-540-3355
U.K. (Bracknell)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 44
City Code: 1344
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Customer Care website:
dell.co.uk/lca/customerservices
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred Accounts/PAD
[1000+ employees])
0870 908 0500
Technical Support (direct/PAD and general) 0870 908 0800
Global Accounts Customer Care 01344 373 185
or 01344 373 186
Home and Small Business Customer Care 0870 906 0010
Corporate Customer Care 0870 908 0500
Preferred Accounts (500–5000 employees) Customer
Care
01344 373 196
Central Government Customer Care 01344 373 193
Local Government & Education Customer Care 01344 373 199
Health Customer Care 01344 373 194
Home and Small Business Sales 0870 907 4000
Corporate/Public Sector Sales 01344 860 456
Uruguay General Support toll-free: 000-413-598-
U.S.A. (Austin,
Texas)
International Access
Code: 011
Country Code: 1
Automated Order-Status Service toll-free: 1-800-433-9014
AutoTech (portable and desktop computers) toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
Consumer (Home and Home Office)
Technical Support toll-free: 1-800-624-9896
Customer Service toll-free: 1-800-624-9897
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DellNet™ Service and Support toll-free: 1-877-Dellnet
(1-877-335-5638)
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-695-8133
Financial Services website: www.dellfinancialservices.com
Financial Services (lease/loans) toll-free: 1-877-577-3355
Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA]) toll-free: 1-800-283-2210
Business
Customer Service and Technical Support toll-free: 1-800-822-8965
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-695-8133
Projectors Technical Support toll-free: 1-877-459-7298
Public (government, education, and healthcare)
Customer Service and Technical Support toll-free: 1-800-456-3355
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-234-1490
Dell Sales toll-free: 1-800-289-3355
or toll-free: 1-800-879-
3355
Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers) toll-free: 1-888-798-7561
Software and Peripherals Sales toll-free: 1-800-671-3355
Spare Parts Sales toll-free: 1-800-357-3355
Extended Service and Warranty Sales toll-free: 1-800-247-4618
Fax toll-free: 1-800-727-8320
Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or
Impaired
toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY
(1-877-335-5889)
U.S. Virgin Islands General Support 1-877-673-3355
Venezuela General Support 8001-3605
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Specifications
Microprocessor
System Information
PC Card
Smart Card
Memory
Ports and Connectors
Communications
Video
Audio
Display
Keyboard
Touch Pad
Track Stick
Battery
AC Adapter
Physical
Environmental
Microprocessor
Microprocessor type Intel® Centrino™ Mobile Technology
or Intel Pentium® M
L1 cache 8 KB (internal)
L2 cache 1 MB (on die)
External bus frequency 400 MHz
System Information
System chip set Intel 855
Data bus width 64 bits
DRAM bus width 64 bits
Microprocessor address bus width 32 bits
PC Card
CardBus controller TI 7510 CardBus controller
PC Card connector supports one Type I or Type II card
Cards supported 3.3 V and 5 V
PC Card connector size 68 pins
Data width (maximum) PCMCIA 16 bits
CardBus 32 bits
Smart Card
Read/write capabilities reads and writes to all ISO 7816
1/2/3/4 microprocessor cards (T=0,
T=1)
Cards supported 3V and 5V
Program technology supported Java cards
Interface speed 9600–115,200 BPS
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EMV level level 1 certified
WHQL certification PC/SC
Compatibility compatible within a PKI environment
Insert/eject cycles certified for up to 100,000 cycles
Memory
Memory module connector two user-accessible SODIMM sockets
Memory module capacities 128MB, 256 MB, 512 MB, and 1024
MB
Memory type 266-MHz DDR SDRAM
Minimum memory 128 MB
Maximum memory 2 GB
Ports and Connectors
Serial 9-pin connector; 16550C-
16-byte buffer connector
Parallel 25-hole connector; unidirectional,
bidirectional, or ECP
Video 15-hole connector
Audio microphone miniconnector,
stereo headphones/speakers
miniconnector
USB two 4-pin USB 2.0–compliant
connectors
Dell™ D/Bay connector 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors
and 4 power supply pins
Infrared sensor sensor compatible with IrDA
Standard 1.1 (Fast IR) and IrDA
Standard 1.0 (Slow IR)
S-video TV-out 7-pin mini-DIN connector for S-
video, composite video, and S/PDIF
(TV/digital audio-adapter cable
supports composite video and
S/PDIF)
Mini PCI Type IIIA Mini PCI card slot
Modem RJ-11 port
Network adapter RJ-45 port
IEEE 1394 4-pin serial connector
Communications
Modem:
Type v.92 56K MDC
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Controller softmodem
Interface internal AC'97 bus
Network adapter 10/100/1000 Ethernet LAN on
system board
Wireless internal Mini PCI Wi-Fi wireless
support; Bluetooth™ (optional,
available at point of sale only)
Video
Video type 64-bit or 128-bit hardware
accelerated
Video controller NVIDIA GeForce4 4200
Video memory 32 MB or 64 MB
Data bus 4X AGP
LCD interface LVDS
TV support NTSC or PAL in S-video and
composite modes
Audio
Audio type Intel AC'97
Stereo conversion 20-bit (stereo digital-to-analog),
18-bit (stereo analog-to-digital)
Interfaces:
Internal AC'97
External microphone miniconnector,
stereo headphones/speakers
miniconnector
Speaker two 4-ohm speakers
Internal speaker amplifier 2-W channel into 4 ohms
Volume controls keyboard shortcuts or program
menus
Display
Type WXGA or WUXGA
Dimensions:
Height 222.5 mm (8.76 inches)
Width 344.5 mm (13.56 inches)
Diagonal 391.2 mm (15.4 inches)
Maximum resolutions 1280 x 800 (WXGA)
1920 x 1200 (WUXGA)
Response time (typical) 35-ms fall (maximum)
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Refresh rate 60 Hz
Operating angle 0° (closed) to 180°
Viewing angles:
Horizontal ±65°
Vertical ±50°
Pixel pitch 0.2588 (WXGA)
0.1725 (WUXGA)
Power Consumption:
Panel with backlight (typical) 5.5 W
Controls brightness can be controlled through
keyboard shortcuts
Keyboard
Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe);
91 (Japan)
Key travel 2.7 mm ± 0.3 mm (0.11 inch ±
0.016 inch)
Key spacing 19.05 mm ± 0.3 mm (0.75 inch ±
0.012 inch)
Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji
Touch Pad
X/Y position resolution
(graphics table mode) 240 cpi
Size:
Width 64.88-mm (2.55-inch) sensor-active
area
Height 48.88-mm (1.92-inch) rectangle
Track Stick
X/Y position resolution
(graphics table mode) 250 count/sec @ 100 gf
Size protrudes 0.5 mm (0.02 inch) higher
than surrounding keycaps
Battery
Type 9-cell "smart" lithium ion (72 WHr)
Dimensions:
Depth 222.8 mm (8.77 inches)
Height 22.5 mm (0.89 inch)
Width 67 mm (2.64 inches)
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Weight 0.48 kg (1.06 lb)
Voltage 11.1 VDC
Charge time with computer off approximately 1 hour to reach 80
percent charge
Operating time approximately 3 to 4 hours; can be
significantly reduced under certain
power-intensive conditions
Temperature range:
Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
AC Adapter
Input voltage 100–240 VAC
Input current (maximum) 1.5 A
Input frequency 50–60 Hz
Output current 4.62 A
Output power 90 W
Rated output voltage 19.5 VDC
Dimensions:
Height 27.94 mm (1.1 inches)
Width 58.42 mm (2.3 inches)
Depth 133.85 mm (5.25 inches)
Weight (with cables) 0.4 kg (0.9 lb)
Temperature range:
Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Physical
Height 38.6 mm (1.52 inches)
Width 361.3 mm (14.22 inches)
Depth 276.2 mm (10.87 inches)
Weight:
With travel module and 72-
WHr battery
3.18 kg (7.0 lb)
With CD drive and 72-WHr
battery
3.36 kg (7.4 lb)
Environmental
Temperature range:
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Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Relative humidity (maximum):
Operating 10% to 90% (noncondensing)
Storage 5% to 95% (noncondensing)
Maximum vibration (using a
vibration spectrum that simulates
user environment):
Operating 0.66 GRMS
Storage 1.30 GRMS
Maximum shock (measured with
drive in head-parked position and a
2-ms half-sine pulse):
Operating 122 G
Storage 163 G
Altitude (maximum):
Operating –15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)
Storage –15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000
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Appendix
Macrovision Product Notice
Ergonomic Computing Habits
Regulatory Notices
Warranty and Return Policy
Macrovision Product Notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S.
patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use
this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation and is intended for home
and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse
engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
Ergonomic Computing Habits
For comfort and efficiency, observe the following ergonomic guidelines when setting up and using your
workstation:
zPosition your computer directly in front of you as you work.
zAdjust the tilt of the computer's display, its contrast and/or brightness settings, and the lighting around
you (such as overhead lights, desk lamps, and the curtains or blinds on nearby windows) to minimize
reflections and glare on the display.
zWhen using an external monitor with your computer, set the monitor at a comfortable viewing distance
(usually 450 to 610 millimeters [18 to 24 inches] from your eyes). Make sure the monitor screen is at
level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.
zUse a chair that provides good lower-back support.
zKeep your forearms horizontal with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position while using the
keyboard, touch pad, track stick, or external mouse.
zAlways use the palm rest with the keyboard, touch pad, or track stick. Leave space to rest your hands
when using an external mouse.
zLet your upper arms hang naturally at your sides.
zEnsure that your feet are resting flat on the floor.
zWhen sitting, make sure the weight of your legs is on your feet and not on the front of your chair seat.
Adjust your chair's height or use a footrest, if necessary, to maintain proper posture.
CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in
CAUTION: Viewing the display or external monitor screen for extended periods of time may
result in eye strain.
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zVary your work activities. Try to organize your work so that you do not have to type for extended
of time. When you stop typing, try to do things that use both hands.
For more information about ergonomic computing habits, see the BSR/HFES 100 standard, which can be
purchased on the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) website at:
www.hfes.org/publications/HFES100.htm
References:
1. American National Standards Institute. ANSI/HFES 100: American National Standards for Human Factors
Engineering of Visual Display Terminal Workstations. Santa Monica, CA: Human Factors Society, Inc., 1988.
2. Human Factors and Ergonomics Society. BSR/HFES 100 Draft standard for trial use: Human Factors
Engineering of Computer Workstations. Santa Monica, CA: Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, 2002.
3. International Organization for Standardization (ISO). ISO 9241 Ergonomics requirements for office work
visual display terminals (VDTs). Geneva, Switzerland: International Organization for Standardization, 1992.
Regulatory Notices
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is any signal or emission, radiated in free space or conducted along power
signal leads, that endangers the functioning of a radio navigation or other safety service or seriously
obstructs, or repeatedly interrupts a licensed radio communications service. Radio communications services
include but are not limited to AM/FM commercial broadcast, television, cellular services, radar, air-traffic
pager, and Personal Communication Services (PCS). These licensed services, along with unintentional
such as digital devices, including computers, contribute to the electromagnetic environment.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is the ability of items of electronic equipment to function properly
in the electronic environment. While this computer has been designed and determined to be compliant with
regulatory agency limits for EMI, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause interference with radio communications services, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one
more of the following measures:
zReorient the receiving antenna.
zRelocate the computer with respect to the receiver.
zMove the computer away from the receiver.
zPlug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer and the receiver are on different branch
circuits.
If necessary, consult a Dell Technical Support representative or an experienced radio/television technician for
additional suggestions.
Dell™ computers are designed, tested, and classified for their intended electromagnetic environment. These
electromagnetic environment classifications generally refer to the following harmonized definitions:
zClass A is typically for business or industrial environments.
zClass B is typically for residential environments.
Information Technology Equipment (ITE), including devices, expansion cards, printers, input/output (I/O)
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devices, monitors, and so on, that are integrated into or connected to the computer should match the
electromagnetic environment classification of the computer.
A Notice About Shielded Signal Cables: Use only shielded cables for connecting devices to any Dell
device to reduce the possibility of interference with radio communications services. Using shielded
cables ensures that you maintain the appropriate EMC classification for the intended environment.
For parallel printers, a cable is available from Dell. If you prefer, you can order a cable from Dell on
the World Wide Web at accessories.us.dell.com/sna/category.asp?category_id=4117.
Most Dell computers are classified for Class B environments. However, the inclusion of certain options can
change the rating of some configurations to Class A. To determine the electromagnetic classification for your
computer or device, see the following sections specific for each regulatory agency. Each section provides
country-specific EMC/EMI or product safety information.
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Most Dell computers are classified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as Class B digital
To determine which classification applies to your computer, examine all FCC registration labels located on the
bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, on card-mounting brackets, and on the cards themselves. If
one of the labels carries a Class A rating, your entire computer is considered to be a Class A digital device. If
labels carry an FCC Class B rating as distinguished by either an FCC ID number or the FCC logo, ( ), your
computer is considered to be a Class B digital device.
Once you have determined your computer's FCC classification, read the appropriate FCC notice. Note that
regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell could void your authority
operate this equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
zThis device may not cause harmful interference.
zThis device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Class A
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction
may cause harmful interference with radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area
likely to cause harmful interference, in which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own
expense.
Class B
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction manual, may cause interference with
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
zReorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
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zIncrease the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
zConnect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
zConsult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.
FCC Identification Information
The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in compliance with
regulations:
zModel number: PP02X
zCompany name:
Dell Computer Corporation
One Dell Way
Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA
512-338-4400
Modem Regulatory Information
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC Rules. On the bottom of your computer is a label that
among other information, the FCC registration number and ringer equivalence number (REN) for your
equipment. If requested, you must provide this information to the telephone company.
The REN is used to determine the quantity of devices that may be connected to the telephone line. Excessive
RENs on the telephone line may result in the devices not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most
the sum of all the RENs on your telephone line should be less than five to ensure proper service from the
telephone company. To be certain of the number of devices that you may connect to a line, as determined by
the total RENs, contact your local telephone company.
The registration jack Universal Service Order Code (USOC) used by this equipment is RJ-11C. An FCC
telephone cord and modular plug is provided with this equipment. This equipment is designed to be connected
to the telephone network or premises wiring using a compatible modular jack that is Part 68 compliant.
This equipment cannot be used on public coin-phone service provided by the telephone company. Connection
party line service is subject to state tariffs.
There are no user serviceable parts on the modem contained in your computer.
If your telephone equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company will notify you in
advance that service may be temporarily discontinued. If advance notice is not practical, the telephone
will notify you as soon as possible. Also, you will be advised of your right to file a complaint with the FCC if
believe it is necessary.
The telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment, operations, or procedures that could
affect the operation of this equipment. If this happens, the telephone company will provide advance notice in
order for you to make necessary modifications to maintain uninterrupted service.
If you experience trouble with this telephone equipment, see "Getting Help" in your computer's
documentation or, for some computers, the section titled "Contacting Dell" in your computer's online guide to
find the appropriate telephone number for obtaining customer assistance. If the equipment is causing harm to
the telephone network, the telephone company may request that you disconnect the equipment until the
problem is resolved.
Fax Branding
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The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 makes it unlawful for any person to use a computer or other
electronic device, including fax machines, to send any message unless such message clearly contains in a
margin at the top or bottom of each transmitted page or on the first page of the transmission, the date and
it is sent, identification of the business, other entity, or individual sending the message, and the telephone
number of the sending machine or such business, other entity, or individual. The telephone number provided
may not be a 900 number or any other number for which charges exceed local or long-distance transmission
charges.
IC Notice (Canada Only)
Most Dell computers (and other Dell digital apparatus) are classified by the Industry Canada (IC) Interference-
Causing Equipment Standard #3 (ICES-003) as Class B digital devices. To determine which classification
A or B) applies to your computer (or other Dell digital apparatus), examine all registration labels located on
bottom, side, or the back panel of your computer (or other digital apparatus). A statement in the form of "IC
Class A ICES-003" or "IC Class B ICES-003" will be located on one of these labels. Note that Industry Canada
regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell could void your authority to
operate this equipment.
Modem Regulatory Information
The IC label identifies certified equipment. This certification means that the equipment meets
telecommunications network protective, operational, and safety requirements as prescribed in the appropriate
Terminal Equipment Technical Requirements document(s). The IC label does not guarantee that the
will operate to the user's satisfaction.
Before installing this equipment, users should ensure that it is permissible to be connected to the facilities of
local telecommunications company. The equipment must also be installed using an acceptable method of
connection. The customer should be aware that compliance with the above conditions may not prevent
degradation of service in some situations.
Repairs to certified equipment should be coordinated by a representative designated by the supplier. Any
or alteration made by a user to this equipment, or equipment malfunctions, may give the telephone
communications company cause to request the user to disconnect the equipment.
Users should ensure for their own protection, that the electrical ground connections of the power utility,
telephone lines, and internal metallic water-pipe system, if present, are connected together. This precaution
may be particularly important in rural areas.
NOTE: The REN assigned to each terminal device provides an indication of the maximum number of terminals
allowed to be connected to a telephone interface. The termination on an interface may consist of any
combination of devices subject only to the requirement that the sum of the RENs of all the devices does not
exceed the number five.
NOTICE: Users should not attempt to make such connections themselves. Contact the appropriate
electric inspection authority, or electrician, as appropriate.
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The REN for the internal modem as stated on the IC regulatory label located on the bottom of the computer is
0.6 B.
The following information is provided in compliance with IC regulations:
Dell Computer Corporation
One Dell Way
Round Rock, TX 78682 USA
512-338-4400
CE Notice (European Union)
Marking by the symbol indicates compliance of this Dell computer to the EMC Directive and the Low
Directive of the European Union. Such marking is indicative that this Dell system meets the following technical
standards:
zEN 55022 — "Information Technology Equipment — Radio Disturbance Characteristics — Limits and
Methods of Measurement."
zEN 55024 — "Information Technology Equipment - Immunity Characteristics - Limits and Methods of
Measurement."
zEN 61000-3-2 — "Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) - Part 3: Limits - Section 2: Limits for Harmonic
Current Emissions (Equipment Input Current Up to and Including 16 A Per Phase)."
zEN 61000-3-3 — "Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) - Part 3: Limits - Section 3: Limitation of
Fluctuations and Flicker in Low-Voltage Supply Systems for Equipment With Rated Current Up to and
Including 16 A."
zEN 60950 — "Safety of Information Technology Equipment."
NOTE: EN 55022 emissions requirements provide for two classifications:
zClass A is for typical commercial areas.
zClass B is for typical domestic areas.
This Dell device is classified for use in a typical Class B domestic environment.
A "Declaration of Conformity" in accordance with the preceding directives and standards has been made and is
on file at Dell Computer Corporation Products Europe BV, Limerick, Ireland.
CE Mark Notice
This equipment complies with the essential requirements of the European Union Directive 1999/5/EC.
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New Zealand Telecom Warnings
General
"The grant of a Telepermit for any item of terminal equipment indicates only that Telecom has accepted that
item complies with minimum conditions for connection to its network. It indicates no endorsement of the
product by Telecom, nor does it provide any sort of warranty. Above all, it provides no assurance that any
will work correctly in all respects with another item of Telepermitted equipment of a different make or model,
nor does it imply that any product is compatible with all of Telecom's network services."
"This equipment does not fully meet Telecom impedance requirements. Performance limitations may occur
used in conjunction with some parts of the network. Telecom will accept no responsibility should difficulties
in such circumstances."
"This equipment shall not be set up to make automatic calls to the Telecom `111' Emergence Service."
"If a charge for local calls is unacceptable, the `Dial' button should NOT be used for local calls. Only the 7-
of the local number should be dialed from your telephone. DO NOT dial the area code digit or the `0' prefix."
"This equipment may not provide for the effective hand-over of a call to another device connected to the same
line."
Important Notice
"Under power failure conditions, this telephone may not operate. Please ensure that a separate telephone, not
dependent on local power, is available for emergency use."
"Some parameters required for compliance with Telecom's Telepermit requirements are dependent on the
equipment (PC) associated with this device. The associated equipment shall be set to operate within the
following limits for compliance with Telecom's Specification:
1. There shall be no more than 10 call attempts to the same number within any 30-minute period for any
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single manual call initiation, and the equipment shall go on-hook for a period of not less than 30
between the end of one attempt and the beginning of the next attempt.
2. Where automatic calls are made to different numbers, the equipment shall go on-line for a period of not
less than 5 seconds between the end of one attempt and the beginning of the next attempt.
3. The equipment shall be set to ensure that calls are answered between 3 and 30 seconds of receipt of
ringing."
"All persons using this device for recording telephone conversations shall comply with New Zealand law. This
requires that at least one party to the conversation is to be aware that it is being recorded. In addition, the
Principles enumerated in the Privacy Act of 1993 shall be complied with in respect to the nature of the
information collected, the purpose for its collection, how it is used and what is disclosed to any other party."
ENERGY STAR® Compliance
Certain configurations of Dell computers comply with the requirements set forth by the Environmental
Agency (EPA) for energy-efficient computers. If the front panel of your computer bears the ENERGY STAR®
Emblem, your original configuration complies with these requirements and all ENERGY STAR® power
management features of the computer are enabled.
NOTE: Any Dell computer bearing the ENERGY STAR® Emblem is certified to comply with EPA ENERGY
requirements as configured when shipped by Dell. Any changes you make to this configuration (such as
installing additional expansion cards or drives) may increase the computer's power consumption beyond the
limits set by the EPA's ENERGY STAR® Computers program.
ENERGY STAR® Emblem
The EPA's ENERGY STAR® Computers program is a joint effort between the EPA and computer manufacturers
reduce air pollution by promoting energy-efficient computer products. The EPA estimates that use of ENERGY
STAR® computer products can save computer users up to two billion dollars annually in electricity costs. In
turn, this reduction in electricity usage can reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, the gas primarily responsible
the greenhouse effect, and sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, the primary causes of acid rain.
You can also help reduce electricity usage and its side effects by turning off your computer when it is not in
for extended periods of time, particularly at night and on weekends.
Simplified Chinese Class A Warning Notice (China Only)
On Class A systems, the following warning will appear near the regulatory label:
Warning: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio
interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
EN 55022 Compliance (Czech Republic Only)
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VCCI Notice (Japan Only)
Most Dell computers are classified by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) as Class B
information technology equipment (ITE). However, the inclusion of certain options can change the rating of
some configurations to Class A. ITE, including devices, expansion cards, printers, input/output (I/O) devices,
monitors, and so on, integrated into or connected to the computer should match the electromagnetic
environment classification (Class A or B) of the computer.
To determine which classification applies to your computer, examine the regulatory labels/markings (see
Class A ITE Regulatory Mark" and "VCCI Class B ITE Regulatory Mark") located on the bottom, side, or back
panel of your computer. Once you have determined your computer's VCCI classification, read the appropriate
VCCI notice.
Class A ITE
This is a Class A product based on the standard of the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) for
information technology equipment. If this equipment is used in a domestic environment, radio disturbance
arise. When such trouble occurs, the user may be required to take corrective actions.
VCCI Class A ITE Regulatory Mark
If the regulatory label includes the following marking, your computer is a Class A product:
Class B ITE
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This is a Class B product based on the standard of the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) for
information technology equipment. If this equipment is used near a radio or television receiver in a domestic
environment, it may cause radio interference. Install and use the equipment according to the instruction
manual.
VCCI Class B ITE Regulatory Mark
If the regulatory label includes the following marking, your computer is a Class B product:
MIC Notice (Republic of Korea Only)
To determine which classification (Class A or B) applies to your computer (or other Dell digital device),
the Republic of Korean Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) registration labels located on your
computer (or other Dell digital device). The MIC label may be located separately from the other regulatory
marking applied to your product. Line two of the label identifies the emissions class for the product—"(A)" for
Class A products or "(B)" for Class B products.
NOTE: MIC emissions requirements provide for two classifications:
zClass A devices are for business purposes.
zClass B devices are for nonbusiness purposes.
Class A Device
Please note that this device has been approved for business purposes with regard to electromagnetic
interference. If you find that this device is not suitable for your use, you may exchange it for a nonbusiness-
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purpose device.
MIC Class A Regulatory Label
If the regulatory label includes the following marking, your computer is a Class A product:
Class B Device
Please note that this device has been approved for nonbusiness purposes and may be used in any
including residential areas.
MIC Class B Regulatory Label
If the regulatory label includes the following marking, your computer is a Class B product.
Polish Center for Testing and Certification Notice
The equipment should draw power from a socket with an attached protection circuit (a 3-prong socket). All
equipment that works together (computer, monitor, printer, and so on) should have the same power supply
source.
The phasing conductor of the room's electrical installation should have a reserve short-circuit protection
in the form of a fuse with a nominal value no larger than 16 amperes (A).
To completely switch off the equipment, the power supply cable must be removed from the power supply
socket, which should be located near the equipment and easily accessible.
A protection mark "B" confirms that the equipment is in compliance with the protection usage requirements of
standards PN-93/T-42107 and PN-EN 55022.
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BSMI Notice (Taiwan Only)
If you find a or mark on the regulatory
label on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, the following section is applicable:
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NOM Information (Mexico Only)
The following information is provided on the device(s) described in this document in compliance with the
requirements of the official Mexican standards (NOM):
Exporter: Dell Computer Corporation
One Dell Way
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Warranty and Return Policy
Dell Computer Corporation ("Dell") manufactures its hardware products from parts and components that are
new or equivalent to new in accordance with industry-standard practices. For information about the Dell
warranty for your computer, see the System Information Guide.
Round Rock, TX 78682
Importer: Dell Computer de México,
S.A. de C.V.
Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11°
Col. Lomas Altas
11950 México, D.F.
Ship to: Dell Computer de México,
S.A. de C.V. al Cuidado de Kuehne
Nagel de México S. de R.I.
Avenida Soles No. 55
Col. Peñon de los Baños
15520 México, D.F.
Model number: PP02X
Supply voltage: 100–240 VAC
Frequency: 50–60 Hz
Current 1.5 A
Output voltage: 20 VDC
Output current: 3.5 A
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Glossary
A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W X Z
Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features
included with your particular computer.
A
AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter
power cable in to an electrical outlet.
ACPI — advanced configuration and power interface — A power management specification that enables
Microsoft® Windows® operating systems to put a computer in standby or hibernate mode to conserve the
amount of electrical power allocated to each device attached to the computer.
AGP — accelerated graphics port — A dedicated graphics port that allows system memory to be used for
related tasks. AGP delivers a smooth, true-color video image because of the faster interface between the
circuitry and the computer memory.
antivirus software — A program designed to identify, quarantine, and/or delete viruses from your computer.
APR — advanced port replicator — A docking device that allows you to conveniently use a monitor, keyboard,
mouse, and other devices with your portable computer.
ASF — alert standards format — A standard to define a mechanism for reporting hardware and software alerts
to a management console. ASF is designed to be platform- and operating system-independent.
B
backup — A copy of a program or data file on a floppy disk, CD, or hard drive. As a precaution, back up the
data files from your hard drive regularly.
battery — An internal power source used to operate portable computers when not connected to an AC
and an electrical outlet.
battery life span — The length of time (years) during which a portable computer battery is able to be
and recharged.
battery operating time — The length of time (minutes or hours) that a portable computer battery holds a
charge while powering the computer.
BIOS — basic input/output system — A program (or utility) that serves as an interface between the computer
hardware and the operating system. Unless you understand what effect the settings have on the computer,
not change the settings for this program. Also referred to as the system setup program.
bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your computer.
Bluetooth™ — A wireless technology standard for short-range (9 m [29 feet]) networking devices that allows
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for enabled devices to automatically recognize each other.
boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from which the computer attempts to boot.
bootable CD — A CD that you can use to start your computer. In case your hard drive is damaged or your
computer has a virus, ensure that you always have a bootable CD or floppy disk available. Your Drivers and
Utilities or Resource CD is a bootable CD.
bootable disk — A disk that you can use to start your computer. In case your hard drive is damaged or your
computer has a virus, ensure that you always have a bootable CD or floppy disk available.
bps — bits per second — The standard unit for measuring data transmission speed.
BTU — British thermal unit — A measurement of heat output.
bus — A communication pathway between the components in your computer.
bus speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast a bus can transfer information.
byte — The basic data unit used by your computer. A byte is usually equal to 8 bits.
C
C — Celsius — A temperature measurement system where 0° is the freezing point and 100° is the boiling
of water.
cache — A special high-speed storage mechanism which can be either a reserved section of main memory or
independent high-speed storage device. The cache enhances the efficiency of many microprocessor
L1 cache — Primary cache stored inside the microprocessor.
L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external to the microprocessor or incorporated into
microprocessor architecture.
carnet — An international customs document that facilitates temporary imports into foreign countries. Also
known as a merchandise passport.
CD — compact disc — An optical form of storage media, typically used for audio and software programs.
CD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read data from CDs.
CD player — The software used to play music CDs. The CD player displays a window with buttons that you
to play a CD.
CD-R — CD recordable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be recorded only once onto a CD-R. Once
recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.
CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a CD-RW disc, and then
and written over (rewritten).
CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs)
discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once.
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CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read CDs and DVDs and
to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times,
you can write to CD-R discs only once.
clock speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast computer components that are connected to
the system bus operate.
COA — Certificate of Authenticity — The Windows alpha-numeric code located on a sticker on your computer.
You may need the COA to complete the operating system setup or reinstallation. Also referred to as the
Key or Product ID.
Control Panel — A Windows utility that allows you to modify operating system and hardware settings, such
display settings.
controller — A chip that controls the transfer of data between the microprocessor and memory or between
microprocessor and devices.
CRIMM — continuity rambus in-line memory module — A special module that has no memory chips and is
to fill unused RIMM slots.
cursor — The marker on a display or screen that shows where the next keyboard, touch pad, or mouse action
will occur. It often is a blinking solid line, an underline character, or a small arrow.
D
DDR SDRAM — double-data-rate SDRAM — A type of SDRAM that doubles the data burst cycle, improving
system performance.
device — Hardware such as a disk drive, printer, or keyboard that is installed in or connected to your
device driver — See driver.
DIN connector — A round, six-pin connector that conforms to DIN (Deutsche Industrie-Norm) standards; it
typically used to connect PS/2 keyboard or mouse cable connectors.
disk striping — A technique for spreading data over multiple disk drives. Disk striping can speed up
that retrieve data from disk storage. Computers that use disk striping generally allow the user to select the
unit size or stripe width.
DMA — direct memory access — A channel that allows certain types of data transfer between RAM and a
to bypass the microprocessor.
docking device — See APR.
DMTF — Distributed Management Task Force — A consortium of hardware and software companies who
management standards for distributed desktop, network, enterprise, and Internet environments.
domain — A group of computers, programs, and devices on a network that are administered as a unit with
common rules and procedures for use by a specific group of users. A user logs on to the domain to gain
to the resources.
DRAM — dynamic random-access memory — Memory that stores information in integrated circuits containing
capacitors.
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driver — Software that allows the operating system to control a device such as a printer. Many devices do not
work properly if the correct driver is not installed in the computer.
DSL — Digital Subscriber Line — A technology that provides a constant, high-speed Internet connection
an analog telephone line.
dual display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as an extension of your
display. Also referred to as extended display mode.
DVD — digital versatile disc — A disc usually used to store movies. DVDs are double-sided, whereas CDs are
single-sided. DVD drives read most CD media as well.
DVD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read data from DVDs and CDs.
DVD player — The software used to watch DVD movies. The DVD player displays a window with buttons that
you use to watch a movie.
DVD+RW — DVD rewritable — A rewritable version of a DVD. Data can be written to a DVD+RW disc, and
erased and written over (rewritten). (DVD+RW technology is different from DVD-RW technology.)
DVD+RW drive — A drive that can read DVDs and most CD media and write to DVD+RW (rewritable DVDs)
discs.
DVI — digital video interface — A standard for digital transmission between a computer and a digital video
display; the DVI adapter works through the computer's integrated graphics.
E
ECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special circuitry for testing the
of data as it passes in and out of memory.
ECP — extended capabilities port — A parallel connector design that provides improved bidirectional data
transmission. Similar to EPP, ECP uses direct memory access to transfer data and often improves
EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives
CD drives.
EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical interference caused by electromagnetic radiation.
ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency requirements that decrease the overall consumption of
electricity.
EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector design that provides bidirectional data transmission.
ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of static electricity. ESD can damage integrated circuits
found in computer and communications equipment.
expansion card — A circuit board that installs in an expansion slot on the system board in some computers,
expanding the capabilities of the computer. Examples include video, modem, and sound cards.
expansion slot — A connector on the system board (in some computers) where you insert an expansion
connecting it to the system bus.
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Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™ computer. Use the Express
Service Code when contacting Dell for assistance. Express Service Code service may not be available in
countries.
extended display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as an extension of your
display. Also referred to as dual display mode.
extended PC Card — A PC Card that extends beyond the edge of the PC Card slot when installed.
F
Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement system where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling
of water.
FCC — Federal Communications Commission — A U.S. agency responsible for enforcing communications-
regulations that state how much radiation computers and other electronic equipment can emit.
floppy drive — A disk drive that can read and write to floppy disks.
folder — A term used to describe space on a disk or drive where files are organized and grouped. Files in a
folder can be viewed and ordered in various ways, such as alphabetically, by date, and by size.
format — The process that prepares a drive or disk for file storage. When a drive or disk is formatted, the
existing information on it is lost.
FSB — front side bus — The data path and physical interface between the microprocessor and RAM.
FTP — file transfer protocol — A standard Internet protocol used to exchange files between computers
connected to the Internet.
G
G — gravity — A measurement of weight and force.
GB — gigabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1024 MB (1,073,741,824 bytes). When used to
refer to hard drive storage, the term is often rounded to 1,000,000,000 bytes.
GHz — gigahertz — A measurement of frequency that equals one thousand million Hz, or one thousand MHz.
The speeds for computer microprocessors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in GHz.
graphics mode — A video mode that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors.
Graphics modes can display an unlimited variety of shapes and fonts.
GUI —
g
raphical user interface — Software that interacts with the user by means of menus, windows, and
NOTE: If your computer has two PC Card connectors, always install extended PC Cards in the top
connector.
NOTICE: Always remove an extended PC Card before packing the computer or traveling. If something
strikes the exposed end of the PC Card, the system board may be damaged.
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icons. Most programs that operate on the Windows operating systems are GUIs.
H
hard drive — A drive that reads and writes data on a hard disk. The terms hard drive and hard disk are often
used interchangeably.
heat sink — A metal plate on some microprocessors that helps dissipate heat.
help file — A file that contains descriptive or instructional information about a product. Some help files are
associated with a particular program, such as Help in Microsoft Word. Other help files function as stand-alone
reference sources. Help files typically have a filename extension of .hlp or .chm.
hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves everything in memory to a reserved space on the
hard drive and then turns off the computer. When you restart the computer, the memory information that
saved to the hard drive is automatically restored.
HTML — hypertext markup language — A set of codes inserted into an Internet web page intended for display
on an Internet browser.
HTTP — hypertext transfer protocol — A protocol for exchanging files between computers connected to the
Internet.
Hz — hertz — A unit of frequency measurement that equals 1 cycle per second. Computers and electronic
devices are often measured in kilohertz (kHz), megahertz (MHz), gigahertz (GHz), or terahertz (THz).
I
IC — Industry Canada — The Canadian regulatory body responsible for regulating emissions from electronic
equipment, much as the FCC does in the United States.
IC — integrated circuit — A semiconductor wafer, or chip, on which thousands or millions of tiny electronic
components are fabricated for use in computer, audio, and video equipment.
IDE — integrated device electronics — An interface for mass storage devices in which the controller is
integrated into the hard drive or CD drive.
IEEE 1394 — Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. — A high-performance serial bus used to
connect IEEE 1394-compatible devices, such as digital cameras and DVD players, to the computer.
infrared sensor — A port that allows you to transfer data between the computer and infrared-compatible
devices without using a cable connection.
integrated — Usually refers to components that are physically located on the computer's system board. Also
referred to as built-in.
I/O — input/output — An operation or device that enters and extracts data from your computer. Keyboards
printers are I/O devices.
I/O address — An address in RAM that is associated with a specific device (such as a serial connector,
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connector, or expansion slot) and allows the microprocessor to communicate with that device.
IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway assigned to a specific device so that the device can
communicate with the microprocessor. Each device connection must be assigned an IRQ. Although two
can share the same IRQ assignment, you cannot operate both devices simultaneously.
ISP — Internet service provider — A company that allows you to access its host server to connect directly to
Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access websites. The ISP typically provides you with a software
user name, and access phone numbers for a fee.
K
Kb — kilobit — A unit of data that equals 1024 bits. A measurement of the capacity of memory integrated
circuits.
KB — kilobyte — A unit of data that equals 1024 bytes but is often referred to as 1000 bytes.
keyboard shortcut — A command requiring you to press multiple keys at the same time. Also referred to as
key combination.
kHz — kilohertz — A measurement of frequency that equals 1000 Hz.
L
LAN — local area network — A computer network covering a small area. A LAN usually is confined to a
or a few nearby buildings. A LAN can be connected to another LAN over any distance through telephone
and radio waves to form a wide area network (WAN).
LCD — liquid crystal display — The technology used by portable computer and flat-panel displays.
LED — light-emitting diode — An electronic component that emits light to indicate the status of the computer.
local bus — A data bus that provides a fast throughput for devices to the microprocessor.
LPT — line print terminal — The designation for a parallel connection to a printer or other parallel device.
M
Mb — megabit — A measurement of memory chip capacity that equals 1024 Kb.
Mbps — megabits per second — One million bits per second. This measurement is typically used for
transmission speeds for networks and modems.
MB — megabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB equals 1024 KB. When
used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often rounded to 1,000,000 bytes.
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MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes per second. This measurement is typically used for
transfer ratings.
memory — A temporary data storage area inside your computer. Because the data in memory is not
permanent, it is recommended that you frequently save your files while you are working on them, and
save your files before you shut down the computer. Your computer can contain several different forms of
memory, such as RAM, ROM, and video memory. Frequently, the word memory is used as a synonym for
memory address — A specific location where data is temporarily stored in RAM.
memory mapping — The process by which the computer assigns memory addresses to physical locations at
start-up. Devices and software can then identify information that the microprocessor can access.
memory module — A small circuit board containing memory chips, which connects to the system board.
MHz — megahertz — A measure of frequency that equals 1 million cycles per second. The speeds for
microprocessors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in MHz.
microprocessor — A computer chip that interprets and executes program instructions. Sometimes the
microprocessor is referred to as the processor or the CPU (central processing unit).
modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone
lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, and internal. You typically use your modem to
to the Internet and exchange e-mail.
module bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™
module.
monitor — The high-resolution TV-like device that displays computer output.
mouse — A pointing device that controls the movement of the cursor on your screen. Typically you roll the
mouse over a hard, flat surface to move the pointer or cursor on your screen.
ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second. Access times of storage
are often measured in ms.
N
network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on
its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as
NIC (network interface controller).
NIC — See network adapter.
notification area — The section of the Windows taskbar that contains icons for providing quick access to
programs and computer functions, such as the clock, volume control, and print status. Also referred to as
system tray.
ns — nanosecond — A measure of time that equals one billionth of a second.
NVRAM — nonvolatile random access memory — A type of memory that stores data when the computer is
turned off or loses its external power source. NVRAM is used for maintaining computer configuration
such as date, time, and other system setup options that you can set.
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O
Optical Drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read or write data from CDs, DVDs, or DVD+RWs.
Example of optical drives include CD drives, DVD drives, CD-RW drives, and CD-RW/DVD combo drives.
P
parallel connector — An I/O port often used to connect a parallel printer to your computer. Also referred to
an LPT port.
partition — A physical storage area on a hard drive that is assigned to one or more logical storage areas
as logical drives. Each partition can contain multiple logical drives.
PC Card — A removable I/O card adhering to the PCMCIA standard. Modems and network adapters are
types of PC Cards.
PCI — peripheral component interconnect — PCI is a local bus that supports 32-and 64-bit data paths,
providing a high-speed data path between the microprocessor and devices such as video, drives, and
PCMCIA — Personal Computer Memory Card International Association — The organization that establishes
standards for PC Cards.
PIN — personal identification number — A sequence of numerals and/or letters used to restrict unauthorized
access to computer networks and other secure systems.
PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two devices through the
microprocessor as part of the data path.
pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are arranged in rows and columns to create an image. A
resolution, such as 800 x 600, is expressed as the number of pixels across by the number of pixels up and
down.
Plug-and-Play — The ability of the computer to automatically configure devices. Plug and Play provides
automatic installation, configuration, and compatibility with existing hardware if the BIOS, operating
and all devices are Plug and Play compliant.
POST — power-on self-test — Diagnostics programs, loaded automatically by the BIOS, that perform basic
on the major computer components, such as memory, hard drives, and video. If no problems are detected
during POST, the computer continues the start-up.
program — Any software that processes data for you, including spreadsheet, word processor, database, and
game packages. Programs require an operating system to run.
PS/2 — personal system/2 — A type of connector for attaching a PS/2-compatible keyboard, mouse, or
PXE — pre-boot execution environment — A WfM (Wired for Management) standard that allows networked
computers that do not have an operating system to be configured and started remotely.
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R
RAID — redundant array of independent disks — A system of two or more drives working together for
performance and fault tolerance. RAID drives are typically used on servers and high-end PCs.
The three most common RAID levels are 0, 3, and 5:
zLevel 0: Provides data striping but no redundancy. Level 0 improves performance but does not
provide fault tolerance.
zLevel 3: Same as Level 0, but also reserves one dedicated drive for error correction data,
good performance and some level of fault tolerance.
zLevel 5: Provides data striping at the byte level and also stripe error correction information,
resulting in excellent performance and good fault tolerance.
RAM — random-access memory — The primary temporary storage area for program instructions and data.
information stored in RAM is lost when you shut down your computer.
readme file — A text file included with a software package or hardware product. Typically, readme files
installation information and describe new product enhancements or corrections that have not yet been
documented.
read-Only — Data and/or files you can view but cannot edit or delete. A file can have read-only status if:
zIt resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
zIt is located on a network in a directory and the system administrator has assigned rights only to
specific individuals.
refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines are recharged
(sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency). The higher the refresh rate, the less video flicker can
seen by the human eye.
resolution — The sharpness and clarity of an image produced by a printer or displayed on a monitor. The
higher the resolution, the sharper the image.
RFI — radio frequency interference — Interference that is generated at typical radio frequencies, in the range
10 kHz to 100,000 MHz. Radio frequencies are at the lower end of the electromagnetic frequency spectrum
are more likely to have interference than the higher frequency radiations, such as infrared and light.
ROM — read-only memory — Memory that stores data and programs that cannot be deleted or written to by
computer. ROM, unlike RAM, retains its contents after you shut down your computer. Some programs
to the operation of your computer reside in ROM.
RPM — revolutions per minute — The number of rotations that occur per minute. Hard drive speed is often
measured in rpm.
RTC — real time clock — Battery-powered clock on the system board that keeps the date and time after you
shut down the computer.
RTCRST — real-time clock reset — A jumper on the system board of some computers that can often be used
troubleshooting problems.
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S
ScanDisk — A Microsoft utility that checks files, folders, and the hard disk's surface for errors. ScanDisk often
runs when you restart the computer after it has stopped responding.
SDRAM — synchronous dynamic random-access memory — A type of DRAM that is synchronized with the
optimal clock speed of the microprocessor.
serial connector — An I/O port often used to connect devices such as a handheld digital device or digital
camera to your computer.
service tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when you access Dell Support
at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service or technical support.
setup program — A program that is used to install and configure hardware and software. The setup.exe or
install.exe program comes with most Windows software packages. Setup program differs from system setup
program.
shortcut — An icon that provides quick access to frequently used programs, files, folders, and drives. When
place a shortcut on your Windows desktop and double-click the icon, you can open its corresponding folder
file without having to find it first. Shortcut icons do not change the location of files. If you delete a shortcut,
original file is not affected. Also, you can rename a shortcut icon.
shutdown — The process of closing windows and exiting programs, exiting the operating system, and turning
off your computer. You can lose data if you turn off your computer before completing a shutdown.
smart card — A card that is embedded with a microprocessor and a memory chip. Smart cards can be used
authenticate a user on computers equipped for smart cards.
software — Anything that can be stored electronically, such as computer files or programs.
S/PDIF — Sony/Philips Digital Interface — An audio transfer file format that allows the transfer of audio from
one file to another without converting it to and from an analog format, which could degrade the quality of
file.
standby mode — A power management mode that shuts down all unnecessary computer operations to save
energy.
surge protectors — Prevent voltage spikes, such as those that may occur during an electrical storm, from
entering the computer through the electrical outlet. Surge protectors do not protect against lightning strikes
against brownouts, which occur when the voltage drops more than 20 percent below the normal AC-line
level.
Network connections cannot be protected by surge protectors. Always disconnect the network cable from
network connector during electrical storms.
SVGA — super-video graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers. Typical SVGA
resolutions are 800 x 600 and 1024 x 768.
The number of colors and resolution that a program displays depends on the capabilities of the monitor, the
video controller and its drivers, and the amount of video memory installed in the computer.
S-video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or digital audio device to the computer.
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SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1280 x 1024.
SXGA+ — super-extended graphics array plus — A video standard for video cards and controllers that
resolutions up to 1400 x 1050.
system board — The main circuit board in your computer. Also known as the motherboard.
system setup program — A utility that serves as an interface between the computer hardware and the
operating system. System setup allows you to configure user-selectable options in the BIOS, such as date
time or system password. Unless you understand what effect the settings have on the computer, do not
the settings for this program.
system tray — See notification area.
T
TAPI — telephony application programming interface — Enables Windows programs to operate with a wide
variety of telephony devices, including voice, data, fax, and video.
text editor — A program used to create and edit files that contain only text; for example, Windows Notepad
uses a text editor. Text editors do not usually provide word wrap or formatting functionality (the option to
underline, change fonts, and so on).
travel module — A plastic device designed to fit inside the module bay of a portable computer to reduce the
weight of the computer.
U
UPS — uninterruptible power supply — A backup power source used when the electrical power fails or drops
an unacceptable voltage level. A UPS keeps a computer running for a limited amount of time when there is
electrical power. UPS systems typically provide surge suppression and may also provide voltage regulation.
Small UPS systems provide battery power for a few minutes to enable you to shut down your computer.
USB — universal serial bus — A hardware interface for a low-speed device such as a USB-compatible
mouse, joystick, scanner, set of speakers, printer, broadband devices (DSL and cable modems), imaging
devices, or storage devices. Devices are plugged directly in to a 4-pin socket on your computer or in to a
port hub that plugs in to your computer. USB devices can be connected and disconnected while the
turned on, and they can also be daisy-chained together.
UTP — unshielded twisted pair — Describes a type of cable used in most telephone networks and some
computer networks. Pairs of unshielded wires are twisted to protect against electromagnetic interference,
than relying on a metal sheath around each pair of wires to protect against interference.
UXGA — ultra extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1600 x 1200.
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V
video controller — The circuitry on a video card or on the system board (in computers with an integrated
controller) that provides the video capabilities—in combination with the monitor—for your computer.
video memory — Memory that consists of memory chips dedicated to video functions. Video memory is
faster than system memory. The amount of video memory installed primarily influences the number of
that a program can display.
video mode — A mode that describes how text and graphics are displayed on a monitor. Graphics-based
software, such as Windows operating systems, displays in video modes that can be defined as x horizontal
by y vertical pixels by z colors. Character-based software, such as text editors, displays in video modes that
be defined as x columns by y rows of characters.
video resolution — See resolution.
virus — A program that is designed to inconvenience you or to destroy data stored on your computer. A virus
program moves from one computer to another through an infected disk, software downloaded from the
or e-mail attachments. When an infected program starts, its embedded virus also starts.
A common type of virus is a boot virus, which is stored in the boot sectors of a floppy disk. If the floppy disk
left in the drive when the computer is shut down and then turned on, the computer is infected when it reads
boot sectors of the floppy disk expecting to find the operating system. If the computer is infected, the boot
may replicate itself onto all the floppy disks that are read or written in that computer until the virus is
eradicated.
V — volt — The measurement of electric potential or electromotive force. One V appears across a resistance o
f
ohm when a current of 1 ampere flows through that resistance.
W
W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt.
WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For
example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for 1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours.
wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the
Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in your favorite picture and make it wallpaper.
write-protected — Files or media that cannot be changed. Use write-protection when you want to protect
from being changed or destroyed. To write-protect a 3.5-inch floppy disk, slide its write-protect tab to the
position.
X
XGA — extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions
to 1024 x 768.
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Z
ZIF — zero insertion force — A type of socket or connector that allows a computer chip to be installed or
removed with no stress applied to either the chip or its socket.
Zip — A popular data compression format. Files that have been compressed with the Zip format are called Zip
files and usually have a filename extension of .zip. A special kind of zipped file is a self-extracting file, which
a filename extension of .exe. You can unzip a self-extracting file by double-clicking it.
Zip drive — A high-capacity floppy drive developed by Iomega Corporation that uses 3.5-inch removable
called Zip disks. Zip disks are slightly larger than regular floppy disks, about twice as thick, and hold up to
MB of data.
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