Dell 5HCKT Notebook Computer with Intel PRO/Wireless 2915ABG User Manual Users Guide Notebook

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Document ID	502009
Application ID	7eaYQbTGLX+wy7gHypYs1g==
Document Description	Users Guide
Short Term Confidential	No
Permanent Confidential	No
Supercede	No
Document Type	User Manual
Display Format	Adobe Acrobat PDF - pdf
Filesize	193.32kB (2416547 bits)
Date Submitted	2004-12-29 00:00:00
Date Available	2005-01-25 00:00:00
Creation Date	2004-01-14 02:48:36
Producing Software	Acrobat Distiller 5.0.5 (Windows)
Document Lastmod	2004-12-21 14:29:22
Document Title	Users Guide - Notebook.pdf
Document Author:	logon

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Dell™ User's Guide
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
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 death.
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 Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Latitude, Dell Precision, OptiPlex, Inspiron, Dimension, Dell TravelLite, and
DellNet are trademarks of Dell Inc.; 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 Corporation; Bluetooth is
a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Inc. under license; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Dell Inc. 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
their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model PP10L
September 2003
P/N M1794
Rev. A00
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Glossary
Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features
included with your particular computer.
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
video-related tasks. AGP delivers a smooth, true-color video image because of the faster interface between
the video 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.
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
adapter and an electrical outlet.
battery life span — The length of time (years) during which a portable computer battery is able to be
depleted 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, do
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.
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Bluetooth™ — A wireless technology standard for short-range (9 m [29 feet]) networking devices that allows
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 — Celsius — A temperature measurement system where 0° is the freezing point and 100° is the boiling
point of water.
cache — A special high-speed storage mechanism which can be either a reserved section of main memory or
an independent high-speed storage device. The cache enhances the efficiency of many microprocessor
operations.
L1 cache — Primary cache stored inside the microprocessor.
L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external to the microprocessor or incorporated into
the 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
use 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
erased and written over (rewritten).
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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.
CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read CDs and DVDs 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.
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
Product Key or Product ID.
Control Panel — A Windows utility that allows you to modify operating system and hardware settings, such
as display settings.
controller — A chip that controls the transfer of data between the microprocessor and memory or between
the microprocessor and devices.
CRIMM — continuity rambus in-line memory module — A special module that has no memory chips and is
used 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.
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
computer.
device driver — See driver.
DIN connector — A round, six-pin connector that conforms to DIN (Deutsche Industrie-Norm) standards; it
is 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
operations that retrieve data from disk storage. Computers that use disk striping generally allow the user to
select the data unit size or stripe width.
DMA — direct memory access — A channel that allows certain types of data transfer between RAM and a
device to bypass the microprocessor.
docking device — See APR.
DMTF — Distributed Management Task Force — A consortium of hardware and software companies who
develop 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
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access to the resources.
DRAM — dynamic random-access memory — Memory that stores information in integrated circuits containing
capacitors.
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
through 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
then 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.
ECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special circuitry for testing the
accuracy 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
performance.
EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives
and 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.
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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
card, connecting it to the system bus.
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 some
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.
NOTE: If your computer has two PC Card connectors, always install extended PC Cards in the top
connector.
extended PC Card — A PC Card that extends beyond the edge of the PC Card slot when installed.
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.
Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement system where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling
point of water.
FCC — Federal Communications Commission — A U.S. agency responsible for enforcing communicationsrelated 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 — 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.
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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 — graphical user interface — Software that interacts with the user by means of menus, windows, and
icons. Most programs that operate on the Windows operating systems are GUIs.
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 was
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).
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.
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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
and printers are I/O devices.
I/O address — An address in RAM that is associated with a specific device (such as a serial connector,
parallel 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
devices 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
the Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access websites. The ISP typically provides you with a software
package, user name, and access phone numbers for a fee.
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
a key combination.
kHz — kilohertz — A measurement of frequency that equals 1000 Hz.
LAN — local area network — A computer network covering a small area. A LAN usually is confined to a
building or a few nearby buildings. A LAN can be connected to another LAN over any distance through
telephone lines 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.
Mb — megabit — A measurement of memory chip capacity that equals 1024 Kb.
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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.
MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes per second. This measurement is typically used for
data 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 always
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
RAM.
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
computer 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
connect 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
devices are often measured in ms.
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 a
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
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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
information such as date, time, and other system setup options that you can set.
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.
parallel connector — An I/O port often used to connect a parallel printer to your computer. Also referred to
as an LPT port.
partition — A physical storage area on a hard drive that is assigned to one or more logical storage areas
known 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
common 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
networks.
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
video 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 system,
and all devices are Plug and Play compliant.
POST — power-on self-test — Diagnostics programs, loaded automatically by the BIOS, that perform basic
tests 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
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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
keypad.
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.
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:
Level 0: Provides data striping but no redundancy. Level 0 improves performance but does not
provide fault tolerance.
Level 3: Same as Level 0, but also reserves one dedicated drive for error correction data,
providing good performance and some level of fault tolerance.
Level 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.
Any 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
provide 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:
It resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
It 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 be
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
of 10 kHz to 100,000 MHz. Radio frequencies are at the lower end of the electromagnetic frequency spectrum
and 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
the computer. ROM, unlike RAM, retains its contents after you shut down your computer. Some programs
essential 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
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shut down the computer.
RTCRST — real-time clock reset — A jumper on the system board of some computers that can often be used
for troubleshooting problems.
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
you place a shortcut on your Windows desktop and double-click the icon, you can open its corresponding
folder or file without having to find it first. Shortcut icons do not change the location of files. If you delete a
shortcut, the 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
to 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 the
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
or against brownouts, which occur when the voltage drops more than 20 percent below the normal AC-line
voltage level.
Network connections cannot be protected by surge protectors. Always disconnect the network cable from the
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.
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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.
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
supports 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 and
time or system password. Unless you understand what effect the settings have on the computer, do not
change the settings for this program.
system tray — See notification area.
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.
UPS — uninterruptible power supply — A backup power source used when the electrical power fails or drops
to an unacceptable voltage level. A UPS keeps a computer running for a limited amount of time when there is
no 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
keyboard, 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 multi-port hub that plugs in to your computer. USB devices can be connected and disconnected while the
computer is 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,
rather 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
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resolutions up to 1600 x 1200.
video controller — The circuitry on a video card or on the system board (in computers with an integrated
video 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
usually faster than system memory. The amount of video memory installed primarily influences the number of
colors 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
pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors. Character-based software, such as text editors, displays in video modes
that can 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
Internet, 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 is
left in the drive when the computer is shut down and then turned on, the computer is infected when it reads
the boot sectors of the floppy disk expecting to find the operating system. If the computer is infected, the
boot virus 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 of
1 ohm when a current of 1 ampere flows through that resistance.
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
data from being changed or destroyed. To write-protect a 3.5-inch floppy disk, slide its write-protect tab to
the open position.
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XGA — extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions
up to 1024 x 768.
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
has 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
disks called Zip disks. Zip disks are slightly larger than regular floppy disks, about twice as thick, and hold up
to 100 MB of data.
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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
of 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
CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.
CAUTION: Viewing the display or external monitor screen for extended periods of time may
result in eye strain.
For comfort and efficiency, observe the following ergonomic guidelines when setting up and using your
computer workstation:
Position your computer directly in front of you as you work.
Adjust 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.
When 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
eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.
Use a chair that provides good lower-back support.
Keep your forearms horizontal with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position while using the
keyboard, touch pad, track stick, or external mouse.
Always use the palm rest with the keyboard, touch pad, or track stick. Leave space to rest your hands
when using an external mouse.
Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides.
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Ensure that your feet are resting flat on the floor.
When 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.
Vary your work activities. Try to organize your work so that you do not have to type for extended
periods 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.html
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
with 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
or signal leads, that endangers the functioning of a radio navigation or other safety service or seriously
degrades, 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, airtraffic control, pager, and Personal Communication Services (PCS). These licensed services, along with
unintentional radiators 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
together 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 or more of the following measures:
Reorient the receiving antenna.
Relocate the computer with respect to the receiver.
Move the computer away from the receiver.
Plug 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:
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Class A is typically for business or industrial environments.
Class B is typically for residential environments.
Page 3 of 13
Information Technology Equipment (ITE), including devices, expansion cards, printers, input/output (I/O)
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
devices. 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 any one of the labels carries a Class A rating, your entire computer is considered to be a Class
A digital device. If all 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 FCC
regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell could void your authority to
operate this equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
This device may not cause harmful interference.
This 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
Part 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 radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference with radio communications. Operation of this equipment
in a residential area is 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
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in 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 radio 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
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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:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult 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
FCC regulations:
Model number:
Company name:
Dell Inc.
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
contains, 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
areas, 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
compliant 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
to 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
company will notify you as soon as possible. Also, you will be advised of your right to file a complaint with the
FCC if you 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
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troubleshooting 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
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
time 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) InterferenceCausing Equipment Standard #3 (ICES-003) as Class B digital devices. To determine which classification
(Class A or B) applies to your computer (or other Dell digital apparatus), examine all registration labels
located on the 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
equipment 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
the 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
repairs 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.
NOTICE: Users should not attempt to make such connections themselves. Contact the appropriate
electric inspection authority, or electrician, as appropriate.
NOTE: The REN assigned to each terminal device provides an indication of the maximum number of
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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.
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 Inc.
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
Voltage Directive of the European Union. Such marking is indicative that this Dell system meets the following
technical standards:
EN 55022 — "Information Technology Equipment — Radio Disturbance Characteristics — Limits and
Methods of Measurement."
EN 55024 — "Information Technology Equipment - Immunity Characteristics - Limits and Methods of
Measurement."
EN 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)."
EN 61000-3-3 — "Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) - Part 3: Limits - Section 3: Limitation of
Voltage Fluctuations and Flicker in Low-Voltage Supply Systems for Equipment With Rated Current Up
to and Including 16 A."
EN 60950 — "Safety of Information Technology Equipment."
NOTE: EN 55022 emissions requirements provide for two classifications:
Class A is for typical commercial areas.
Class B is for typical domestic areas.
RF INTERFERENCE WARNING: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product
may cause radio frequency (RF) interference, in which case the user may be required to take
adequate measures.
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 Inc. 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
the 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
item 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
when used in conjunction with some parts of the network. Telecom will accept no responsibility should
difficulties arise 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 7digits 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:
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1. There shall be no more than 10 call attempts to the same number within any 30-minute period for any
single manual call initiation, and the equipment shall go on-hook for a period of not less than 30
seconds 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
personal information collected, the purpose for its collection, how it is used and what is disclosed to any other
party."
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)
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 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 (see "VCCI Class A ITE Regulatory Mark" or "VCCI Class B ITE
Regulatory Mark").
Class A ITE
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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
may 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
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),
examine 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:
Class A devices are for business purposes.
Class B devices are for nonbusiness purposes.
Class A Device
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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 nonbusinesspurpose 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
environment, 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
device in the form of a fuse with a nominal value no larger than 16 amperes (A).
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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
standard PN-EN 55022.
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 Inc.
One Dell Way
Round Rock, TX 78682
Importer:
Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V.
Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11° Piso
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.L.
Avenida Soles No. 55
Col. Peñon de los Baños
15520 México, D.F.
Model number:
PP10L
Supply voltage:
100–240 VAC
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Frequency:
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50–60 Hz
Current Consumption: 1.5 A
Output voltage:
19.5 VDC
Output current:
4.62 A
ENERGY STAR® Compliance
Certain configurations of Dell computers comply with the requirements set forth by the Environmental
Protection 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
STAR® 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
to 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 for 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
use for extended periods of time, particularly at night and on weekends.
Warranty and Return Policy
Dell Inc. ("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 or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your
computer.
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Specifications
Microprocessor
Microprocessor type
Intel® Centrino™ Mobile Technology
or Intel® Pentium® M Processor
L1 cache
64 KB (internal); 32-KB instruction
and 32-KB write-back data
L2 cache
1 MB
External bus frequency
400 MHz, source synchronous
processor system bus
System Information
Data bus width
64 bits
DRAM bus width
64 bits
Microprocessor address bus width
32 bits
Flash EPROM
1MB
PCI bus
32 bits
PC Card
CardBus controller
PCI4510 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
Memory
Minimum speed requirement
266 MHz
Memory module connector
two user-accessible DDR SDRAM
connectors
Memory module capacities
128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB, and
1024MB
Memory type
2.5V DDR SDRAM
Standard memory
128 MB
Maximum memory
2 GB
Ports and Connectors
Serial
9-pin connector; 16550Ccompatible,
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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
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 (optional
S-video to composite video adapter
cable)
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
Controller
softmodem
Interface
internal AC'97 bus
Network adapter
10/100 Ethernet LAN on system
board
Wireless
internal Mini PCI Wi-Fi wireless
support; Bluetooth™ (optional,
available at point of sale only)
Video
Video type
Intel UMA Integrated
Video controller
Intel 855GME Integrated chip set
Video memory
1 MB with Intel DVMT up to 32 MB
(with 128 MB of system memory) or
64 MB (with 256 MB or more of
system memory)
LCD interface
LVDS
Audio
Audio type
compatible with Soundblaster and
Microsoft® Windows® Sound
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System
Audio controller
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 (active-matrix TFT)
XGA
Dimensions:
Height
228.1 mm (9 inches)
Width
304.1 mm (12 inches)
Diagonal
380.1 mm (15 inches)
Maximum resolutions
1024 x 768 at 16.8 million colors
Response time (typical)
25-ms rise (maximum),
35-ms fall (maximum)
Refresh rate
60 Hz
Operating angle
0° (closed) to 180°
Viewing angles:
Horizontal
±60°
Vertical
±45°
Pixel pitch
0.2172 x 0.2172 mm
Power Consumption:
Panel with backlight (typical)
Controls
4.6 W
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 ±
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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
Battery
Type
6-cell "smart" lithium ion (48 WHr)
4-cell "smart" lithium ion (32 WHr)
Dimensions:
Depth
77.5 mm (3.05 inches)
Height
19.5 mm (0.76 inch)
Width
123.4 mm (4.86 inches)
Weight
0.32 kg (0.7 lb) (6-cell battery)
0.23 kg (0.52 lb) (4-cell battery)
Voltage
11.1 VDC (6-cell battery)
14.8 VDC (4-cell battery)
Charge time with computer off
(approximate)
1 hour for 80 percent charge
Operating time
approximately 3 to 4 hours (6-cell
battery); approximately 2 to 2.5
hours (4-cell battery); can be
significantly reduced under certain
power-intensive conditions
Life span (approximate)
300 discharge/charge cycles
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–20° to 65°C (–4° to 149°F)
AC Adapter
Input voltage
90–264 VAC
Input current (maximum)
1.7 A
Input frequency
47–63 Hz
Output current
3.34A (65 W)
4.62A (90 W)
Output power
65 W or 90 W
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19.5 VDC
Dimensions:
Height
28.2mm (1.11 inches) (65 W)
34.2mm (1.35 inches) (90 W)
Width
57.9mm (2.28 inches) (65 W)
60.8mm (2.39 inches) (90 W)
Depth
137.2mm (5.40 inches) (65 W)
153.4mm (6.04 inches) (90 W)
Weight (with cables)
0.4 kg (1 lb) (90 W)
0.3 kg (.69 lb) (65 W)
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Computer Dimensions and Weight
Height
35.5 mm (1.40 inches)
Width
338.4 mm (13.32 inches)
Depth
273 mm (10.75 inches)
Weight:
With travel module and
standard battery
2.49 kg (5.49 lb)
With CD drive and standard
battery
2.70 kg (5.94 lb)
Computer Environmental
Temperature range:
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
random-vibration spectrum that
simulates user environment):
Operating
0.66 GRMS
Storage
1.30 GRMS
Maximum shock (measured with
hard drive in head-parked position
and a 2-ms half-sine pulse):
Operating
122 G
Storage
163 G
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Altitude (maximum):
Operating
–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)
Storage
–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000
ft)
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Specifications
Microprocessor
Microprocessor type
Intel® Centrino™ Mobile Technology
or Intel® Pentium® M Processor
L1 cache
64 KB (internal); 32-KB instruction
and 32-KB write-back data
L2 cache
1 MB
External bus frequency
400 MHz, source synchronous
processor system bus
System Information
Data bus width
64 bits
DRAM bus width
64 bits
Microprocessor address bus width
32 bits
Flash EPROM
1MB
PCI bus
32 bits
PC Card
CardBus controller
PCI4510 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
Memory
Minimum speed requirement
266 MHz
Memory module connector
two user-accessible DDR SDRAM
connectors
Memory module capacities
128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB, and
1024MB
Memory type
2.5V DDR SDRAM
Standard memory
128 MB
Maximum memory
2 GB
Ports and Connectors
Serial
9-pin connector; 16550Ccompatible,
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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
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 (optional
S-video to composite video adapter
cable)
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
Controller
softmodem
Interface
internal AC'97 bus
Network adapter
10/100 Ethernet LAN on system
board
Wireless
internal Mini PCI Wi-Fi wireless
support; Bluetooth™ (optional,
available at point of sale only)
Video
Video type
Intel UMA Integrated
Video controller
Intel 855GME Integrated chip set
Video memory
1 MB with Intel DVMT up to 32 MB
(with 128 MB of system memory) or
64 MB (with 256 MB or more of
system memory)
LCD interface
LVDS
Audio
Audio type
compatible with Soundblaster and
Microsoft® Windows® Sound
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System
Audio controller
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 (active-matrix TFT)
XGA
Dimensions:
Height
228.1 mm (9 inches)
Width
304.1 mm (12 inches)
Diagonal
380.1 mm (15 inches)
Maximum resolutions
1024 x 768 at 16.8 million colors
Response time (typical)
25-ms rise (maximum),
35-ms fall (maximum)
Refresh rate
60 Hz
Operating angle
0° (closed) to 180°
Viewing angles:
Horizontal
±60°
Vertical
±45°
Pixel pitch
0.2172 x 0.2172 mm
Power Consumption:
Panel with backlight (typical)
Controls
4.6 W
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 ±
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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
Battery
Type
6-cell "smart" lithium ion (48 WHr)
4-cell "smart" lithium ion (32 WHr)
Dimensions:
Depth
77.5 mm (3.05 inches)
Height
19.5 mm (0.76 inch)
Width
123.4 mm (4.86 inches)
Weight
0.32 kg (0.7 lb) (6-cell battery)
0.23 kg (0.52 lb) (4-cell battery)
Voltage
11.1 VDC (6-cell battery)
14.8 VDC (4-cell battery)
Charge time with computer off
(approximate)
1 hour for 80 percent charge
Operating time
approximately 3 to 4 hours (6-cell
battery); approximately 2 to 2.5
hours (4-cell battery); can be
significantly reduced under certain
power-intensive conditions
Life span (approximate)
300 discharge/charge cycles
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–20° to 65°C (–4° to 149°F)
AC Adapter
Input voltage
90–264 VAC
Input current (maximum)
1.7 A
Input frequency
47–63 Hz
Output current
3.34A (65 W)
4.62A (90 W)
Output power
65 W or 90 W
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19.5 VDC
Dimensions:
Height
28.2mm (1.11 inches) (65 W)
34.2mm (1.35 inches) (90 W)
Width
57.9mm (2.28 inches) (65 W)
60.8mm (2.39 inches) (90 W)
Depth
137.2mm (5.40 inches) (65 W)
153.4mm (6.04 inches) (90 W)
Weight (with cables)
0.4 kg (1 lb) (90 W)
0.3 kg (.69 lb) (65 W)
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Computer Dimensions and Weight
Height
35.5 mm (1.40 inches)
Width
338.4 mm (13.32 inches)
Depth
273 mm (10.75 inches)
Weight:
With travel module and
standard battery
2.49 kg (5.49 lb)
With CD drive and standard
battery
2.70 kg (5.94 lb)
Computer Environmental
Temperature range:
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
random-vibration spectrum that
simulates user environment):
Operating
0.66 GRMS
Storage
1.30 GRMS
Maximum shock (measured with
hard drive in head-parked position
and a 2-ms half-sine pulse):
Operating
122 G
Storage
163 G
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Altitude (maximum):
Operating
–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)
Storage
–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000
ft)
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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.
CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer covers, first disconnect the computer power
and modem cables from all electrical outlets.
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 Dell
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
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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:
World Wide Web
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)
Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)
ftp.dell.com/
Log in as user: anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.
Electronic 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)
Electronic Quote Service
sales@dell.com
apmarketing@dell.com (for Asian/Pacific countries only)
Electronic 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
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To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you
can 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
Dell's technical support service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to answer your questions about
Dell 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
country 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,
visit 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
disks, 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.
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Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at Dell's receiving dock and
returned to you.
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.
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:
Contacting Dell
To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:
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www.dell.com
support.dell.com (technical support)
premiersupport.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 Access
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)
Website: www.dell.com.ar
Tech Support and Customer Care
toll-free: 0-800-444-0733
International Access
Code: 00
Sales
Country Code: 54
Tech Support Fax
11 4515 7139
Customer Care Fax
11 4515 7138
City Code: 11
Aruba
General Support
Australia (Sydney)
E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com
International Access
Code: 0011
Country Code: 61
City Code: 2
Austria (Vienna)
International Access
Code: 900
Country Code: 43
0-810-444-3355
toll-free: 800-1578
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
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com
Home/Small Business Sales
0820 240 530 00
Home/Small Business Fax
0820 240 530 49
Home/Small Business Customer Care
0820 240 530 14
City Code: 1
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Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care
0820 240 530 16
Home/Small Business Technical Support
0820 240 530 14
Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support
Switchboard
0660 8779
0820 240 530 00
Bahamas
General Support
toll-free: 1-866-278-6818
Barbados
General Support
1-800-534-3066
Belgium (Brussels)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 32
City Code: 2
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
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
Website: www.dell.com/br
International Access
Code: 00
Customer Support, Technical Support
Tech Support Fax
51 481 5470
Country Code: 55
Customer Care Fax
51 481 5480
City Code: 51
Sales
British Virgin
Islands
General Support
Brunei
Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4966
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4949
Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4955
Country Code: 673
Canada (North York, Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus
Ontario)
AutoTech (automated technical support)
International Access
Code: 011
0800 90 3355
0800 90 3390
toll-free: 1-866-278-6820
toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
TechFax
toll-free: 1-800-950-1329
Customer Care (Home Sales/Small Business)
toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Customer Care (med./large business, government)
toll-free: 1-800-326-9463
Technical Support (Home Sales/Small Business)
toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Technical Support (med./large bus., government)
toll-free: 1-800-387-5757
Sales (Home Sales/Small Business)
toll-free: 1-800-387-5752
Sales (med./large bus., government)
toll-free: 1-800-387-5755
Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales
1 866 440 3355
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Cayman Islands
General Support
Chile (Santiago)
Sales, Customer Support, and Technical Support
1-800-805-7541
toll-free: 1230-020-4823
Country Code: 56
City Code: 2
China (Xiamen)
Country Code: 86
Tech Support website: support.ap.dell.com/china
Tech Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.com
Tech Support Fax
City Code: 592
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
Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts
toll-free: 800 858 2811
toll-free: 800 858 2621
Colombia
General Support
980-9-15-3978
Costa Rica
General Support
0800-012-0435
Czech Republic
(Prague)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code: 00
Technical Support
02 2186 27 27
Customer Care
02 2186 27 11
Country Code: 420
Fax
02 2186 27 14
TechFax
02 2186 27 28
Switchboard
02 2186 27 11
City Code: 2
Denmark
(Copenhagen)
International Access
Code: 00
E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail Support (portable computers):
den_nbk_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (desktop computers):
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Country Code: 45
Page 8 of 17
den_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (servers):
Nordic_server_support@dell.com
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)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code: 990
Country Code: 358
City Code: 9
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)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code: 00
Home and Small Business
Technical Support
0825 387 270
Country Code: 33
Customer Care
0825 823 833
Switchboard
0825 004 700
City Codes: (1) (4)
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/
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
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Germany (Langen)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 49
City Code: 6103
Greece
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 30
Page 9 of 17
Sales
01 55 94 71 00
Fax
01 55 94 71 01
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com
Technical Support
Home/Small Business Customer Care
06103 766-7200
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
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/gr/en/emaildell/
Technical Support
Gold Technical Support
080044149518
08844140083
Switchboard
2108129800
Sales
2108129800
Fax
2108129812
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
Website: support.ap.dell.com
International Access
Code: 001
Country Code: 852
E-mail: ap_support@dell.com
Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™)
296 93188
Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell
Precision™)
296 93191
Customer Service (non-technical, post-sales issues)
India
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
Technical Support
1600 33 8045
Sales
1600 33 8044
Ireland
(Cherrywood)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code: 16
Ireland Technical Support
Country Code: 353
Home User Customer Care
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only)
1850 543 543
0870 908 0800
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01 204 4014
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City Code: 1
Page 10 of 17
Small Business Customer Care
U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)
Corporate Customer Care
Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)
01 204 4014
0870 906 0010
1850 200 982
0870 907 4499
Ireland Sales
U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only)
Italy (Milan)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 39
City Code: 02
01 204 4444
0870 907 4000
Fax/SalesFax
01 204 0103
Switchboard
01 204 4444
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/it/it/emaildell/
Home and Small Business
Technical Support
02 577 826 90
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
Jamaica
General Support (dial from within Jamaica only)
Japan (Kawasaki)
Website: support.jp.dell.com
International Access
Code: 001
Country Code: 81
City Code: 44
Technical Support (servers)
Technical Support outside of Japan (servers)
Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™)
02 577 821
1-800-682-3639
toll-free: 0120-198-498
81-44-556-4162
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
Faxbox Service
044-556-3490
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
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Korea (Seoul)
International Access
Code: 001
Country Code: 82
City Code: 2
Latin America
Page 11 of 17
Public Sales (government agencies, educational
institutions, and medical institutions)
044-556-1469
Global Segment Japan
044-556-3469
Individual User
044-556-1760
Switchboard
044-556-4300
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
Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)
512 728-4093
Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)
512 728-3619
Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service)
(Austin, 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
Macao
Country Code: 853
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_be@dell.com
Technical Support (Brussels, Belgium)
Home/Small Business Sales (Brussels, Belgium)
3420808075
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
Technical Support
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)
toll-free: 0800 582
604 633 4949
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 0800 581
Malaysia (Penang)
Technical Support
toll-free: 1 800 888 298
International Access
Code: 00
Customer Service
04 633 4949
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 1 800 888 202
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 1 800 888 213
Country Code: 60
City Code: 4
Mexico
International Access
Customer Technical Support
001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383
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Code: 00
Page 12 of 17
Sales
Country Code: 52
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):
International Access
Code: 00
(Enterprise): nl_server_support@dell.com
Country Code: 31
(Latitude): nl_latitude_support@dell.com
City Code: 20
(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
New Zealand
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 64
Nicaragua
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
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
General Support
001-800-220-1006
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Norway (Lysaker)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 47
Page 13 of 17
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
Fax Switchboard
671 16865
Panama
General Support
001-800-507-0962
Peru
General Support
0800-50-669
Poland (Warsaw)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code: 011
Country Code: 48
City Code: 22
Portugal
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 351
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
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/pt/en/emaildell/
Technical Support
707200149
Customer Care
Sales
800 300 413
800 300 410 or
800 300 411 or
800 300 412 or
21 422 07 10
Fax
21 424 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
Technical Support
toll-free: 800 6011 051
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(Singapore)
International Access
Code: 005
Page 14 of 17
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4949
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 800 6011 054
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 800 6011 053
Country Code: 65
South Africa
(Johannesburg)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code:
Technical Support
011 709 7710
Customer Care
011 709 7707
Sales
011 709 7700
Country Code: 27
Fax
011 706 0495
City Code: 11
Switchboard
011 709 7700
09/091
E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com
Southeast Asian and Customer Technical Support, Customer Service, and
Pacific Countries
Sales (Penang, Malaysia)
Spain (Madrid)
International Access
Code: 00
Country Code: 34
City Code: 91
604 633 4810
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)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code: 00
E-mail Support for Latitude and Inspiron:
Swe-nbk_kats@dell.com
Country Code: 46
City Code: 8
E-mail: swe_support@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
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Fax Technical Support
08 590 05 594
Sales
08 590 05 185
Switzerland
(Geneva)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code: 00
E-mail for French-speaking HSB and Corporate
Customers:
support.euro.dell.com/ch/fr/emaildell/
Country Code: 41
City Code: 22
Taiwan
International Access
Code: 002
E-mail: swisstech@dell.com
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
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
Country Code: 886
or 0800 33 556
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 0080 651 227
or 0800 33 555
Thailand
Technical Support
International Access
Code: 001
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)
Country Code: 66
toll-free: 0880 060 07
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)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access
Code: 00
Customer Care website:
support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/Form/Home.asp
Country Code: 44
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
City Code: 1344
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 373 186
Home and Small Business Customer Care
0870 906 0010
Corporate Customer Care
01344 373 185
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Preferred Accounts (500–5000 employees) Customer
Care
0870 906 0010
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
U.S.A. (Austin,
Texas)
Automated Order-Status Service
toll-free: 1-800-433-9014
AutoTech (portable and desktop computers)
toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
International Access
Code: 011
Consumer (Home and Home Office)
Technical Support
toll-free: 1-800-624-9896
Country Code: 1
Customer Service
toll-free: 1-800-624-9897
DellNet™ Service and Support
toll-free: 000-413-5982521
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: 1-800-8793355
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
Speech-Impaired
toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY
(1-877-335-5889)
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U.S. Virgin Islands
General Support
1-877-673-3355
Venezuela
General Support
8001-3605
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Using the System Setup Program
Page 1 of 4
Using the System Setup Program
Overview
Viewing the System Setup Screens
System Setup Screens
Commonly Used Options
Overview
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 exception
is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through the system setup
program.) For more information on configuring features for your operating system, see your Microsoft®
Windows® Help or the Windows Help and Support Center.
You can use the system setup program as follows:
To set or change user-selectable features—for example, your password
To verify information about the computer's current configuration, such as the amount of system
memory
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.
NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do
not change the settings for this program. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly.
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.
System Setup Screens
The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer. On each
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screen, the system setup options are listed at the left of the screen. To the right of each option is the setting
or value 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 lowerright corner displays information about the computer. System setup key functions are listed across the bottom
of the screen.
The screens display such information as:
System configuration
Boot order
Boot (start-up) configuration and docking-device configuration settings
Basic device configuration settings
Battery charge status
System security and hard-drive password settings
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 using the Boot Order page of 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:
Diskette Drive
Modular bay HDD
Internal HDD
CD/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 operating
system.
To control the boot devices, select (highlight) a device by pressing the up-arrow key or down-arrow key, and
then enable or disable the device or change its order in the list.
To enable or disable a device, highlight the item and press the space-bar key. Enabled items appear as
white and display a small triangle to their left; disabled items appear blue or dimmed without a triangle.
To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and then press  or  (not case-sensitive) to
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move the highlighted device up or down.
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. Shut down the computer.
2. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3. 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.
4. 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 normal 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.
To 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 its interrupt
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
its interrupt 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.
3. Press the down-arrow key to highlight Disabled next to Infrared Data Port.
4. Press the right-arrow key to change the setting to a COM port.
Ensure that the COM port that you select is different from the COM port assigned to the serial
connector.
5. Press the down-arrow key to select Infrared Mode, and press the right-arrow key to change the
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setting to Fast IR or Slow IR.
It is recommended that you use Fast IR. If the infrared device cannot communicate with your
computer, turn off the computer and repeat steps 1 through 5 to change the setting to Slow IR.
6. Press  to save the changes and exit the system setup program.
If you are prompted to restart your computer, click Yes.
7. Follow the instructions on the screen while the infrared sensor driver is being installed.
8. At the end of the installation process, 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 use
an infrared device, see the infrared device documentation and Windows Help.
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Adding and Replacing Parts
Before You Begin
Recommended Tools
Shutting Down Your Computer
Memory
Keyboard
Bluetooth™
Mini PCI Card
Hard Drive
Connecting a Television to the Computer
Before You Begin
This section provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless
otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:
You have performed the steps in "Shutting Down Your Computer."
You have read the safety information in your System Information Guide.
Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
Small flat-blade screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Small plastic scribe
Flash BIOS update program floppy disk or CD
Shutting Down Your Computer
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Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to ensure your
own personal safety.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety
instructions in the System Information Guide.
NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to
servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.
CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts
on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such
as a microprocessor by its edges, not by its pins.
NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the
cable itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable,
press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them
evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both
connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working
inside the computer.
1. Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.
2. Shut down the computer.
3. Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached
devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, press and hold the power
button for 4 seconds.
4. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for instructions.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it
from the network wall jack.
5. Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
6. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the
power button to ground the system board.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it
into the computer.
7. Remove any installed PC Cards from the PC Card slot.
8. Close the display and turn the computer upside down on a flat work surface.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you service
the computer.
9. Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the
battery from the bay.
10. Remove any installed modules, including a second battery, if installed.
11. Remove the hard drive.
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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. Be sure to add only memory
modules that are intended for your computer.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.
CAUTION: Before working inside your Dell™ computer, read the safety instructions in your
System Information Guide.
1. Turn the computer over, remove the screw from the memory module cover, and lift the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the inner
metal tabs that secure the memory module.
2. If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module.
NOTICE: Handle memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the components on a module.
a. Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory
module connector until the module pops up.
b. Remove the module from the connector.
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NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the
connector labeled "JDIM (DIMMA)" before you install a module in the connector labeled "JDIM2
(DIMMB)."
3. Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
a. Align the notch in the module with the slot in the center of the connector.
b. Slide the edge of the module firmly into the connector, and rotate the module down until you feel
a click. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer does not boot. No error message
indicates this failure.
4. Replace the cover and screw.
NOTICE: If the memory module cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing
the cover to close may damage your computer.
5. Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical
outlet.
6. Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration
information.
Keyboard
CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, read the safety instructions in your
System Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
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periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as the back panel) on the computer."
1. Turn the computer top-side up and open it.
display
center control cover
palm rest
2. Remove the center control cover:
a. Open the display all the way (180 degrees) so that it lies flat against your work surface.
b. Starting on the right side of the computer, use a plastic scribe to pry up the center control cover.
Lift it away from the computer, and lay it aside.
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center control cover
3. Remove the keyboard:
a. Remove the two M2.5 x 6-mm screws across the top of the keyboard.
NOTICE: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace. Be
careful when removing and handling the keyboard.
b. Rotate the keyboard up and slide it forward.
c. Hold the keyboard up and slightly forward to allow access to the keyboard connector.
d. Pull up on the keyboard connector tab to disconnect the keyboard connector from the system
board.
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M2.5 x 6-mm screws (2)
keyboard tabs
palm rest
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NOTE: When you replace the keyboard, ensure that the keyboard tabs are completely in place to avoid
scratching the palm rest.
Bluetooth™
If you ordered a Bluetooth card with your computer, the card is already installed.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your System
Information Guide.
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.
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.
7. Remove the Hard Drive.
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8. Pull the Bluetooth card connector out of the system board connector.
9. Pull the cable to remove the Bluetooth card from the computer.
1 Bluetooth card
2 system board connector
3 Bluetooth card connector
4 cable
NOTE: When replacing the Bluetooth card, ensure the Bluetooth cable is routed correctly so that you do
not damage the cable when you install the hard drive.
Mini PCI Card
CAUTION: FCC rules strictly prohibit users from installing 5-GHz (802.11a,802.11a/b,
802.11a/b/g) Wireless LAN Mini PCI cards. Under no circumstances should the user install
such a device. Only trained Dell service personnel are authorized to install a 5-GHz Wireless
LAN Mini PCI card.
If you are removing and/or installing a 2.4-GHz (802.11b, 802.11b/g) Mini PCI card, follow
the instructions noted below. Only products approved for use in your portable computer may
be installed. Approved Mini PCI cards may be purchased only from Dell.
NOTE: 2.4-GHz Wireless LAN PC Cards may be removed and installed by the user.
If you ordered a Mini PCI card at the same time that you ordered your computer, the card is already installed.
NOTE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your System
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Information Guide.
1. Turn the computer over, and remove the screw from the Mini PCI card cover.
2. Place your finger under the cover at the indentation, and lift and slide the cover open.
3. If a Mini PCI card is not already installed, go to step 6. If you are replacing a Mini PCI card, remove the
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.
4. Align the new Mini PCI card with the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the Mini PCI card into
the connector.
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5. Connect the antenna cables from the Mini PCI card to the antenna connectors on the computer.
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed for correct insertion; do not force the connections.
1 antenna connectors on card (2)
2 antenna cables (2)
6. Lower the Mini PCI card toward the inner tabs to approximately a 20-degree angle.
7. Continue lowering the Mini PCI card until it snaps into the inner tabs of the connector.
8. Replace the cover.
Hard Drive
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, shut down your computer before removing the hard drive. Do not
remove 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 drive.
CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot, do not
touch the metal housing of the hard drive.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your System
Information Guide.
NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than
Dell.
1. Turn the computer over. Use a small screwdriver to loosen the captive hard drive screw.
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captive screws
2. Turn the computer over so that it is upright.
NOTICE: You cannot remove your hard drive unless you open your display first.
3. Open the display approximately 2.54 cm (1 in).
NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. See
"Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in your System Information Guide."
4. Pull the hard drive cover out of the computer.
5. Remove the new drive from its packaging.
Save the original packaging for use when storing or shipping the hard drive.
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NOTICE: You cannot replace your hard drive unless you open your display first.
6. Ensure that the display is open approximately 2.54 cm (1 inch).
NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you force the hard drive into place
using excessive force, you may damage the hard drive connector.
7. Press the hard drive cover into the bay until it is fully seated in the bay.
8. Turn the computer over. Use a small screwdriver to tighten the screw.
9. Use the Operating System CD to install the operating system for your computer.
10. Use the Drivers and Utilities CD to install the drivers and utilities for your computer.
Connecting a Television to the Computer
Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that enables you to connect the computer to a television.
Using a commercially available S-video cable or composite video cable, you can connect the computer to a
television in one of two ways:
S-video (for a television with S-video input)
Composite video (for a television with only a composite video input; also uses a composite TV-out
adapter cable)
NOTE: Diagrams for each connection combination appear at the beginning of each subsection to help
you determine which method you should use.
The audio connector on the side of the computer enables you to connect the computer to your television or
audio device, using a commercially available audio cable.
When you complete the cable connection, see "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" to ensure that
the computer recognizes and works properly with the television.
S-Video Connection
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Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:
S-video cable
audio cable
1. Shut down the computer and the television and/or audio device you want to connect.
2. Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video connector on the computer.
3. Plug the other end of the S-video cable in to your television.
4. Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable in to the headphone connector on your computer.
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5. Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the audio input connectors on
your television or audio device.
6. Turn on the television, turn on any audio device you connected, and then turn on the computer.
7. See "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" to ensure that the computer recognizes and works
properly with the television.
Composite Video Connection
To connect the computer to a television that has a composite video input only, use a composite TV-out
adapter cable available from Dell. Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:
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1 composite TV-out adapter
cable
2 composite video cable
3 audio cable
1. Turn off the computer and the television and/or audio device you want to connect.
2. Connect the composite TV-out adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.
1 S-video TV-out connector
2 S-video connector
3 composite TV-out adapter
cable
4 composite video connector
3. Plug one end of the composite video cable in to the composite video connector on the composite TV-out
adapter 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
your television or audio device.
Enabling the Display Settings for a Television
Intel UMA Integrated Video Controller
NOTE: Ensure that you properly connect the television before you enable the display settings.
1. Open the Control Panel window.
In Microsoft® Windows® XP, click the Start button and click the Control Panel icon. Under Pick a
Category, click Appearance and Themes.
In Windows 2000, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Display icon, click the Settings tab, and then click Advanced.
3. Click the Intel (R) Extreme Graphics tab.
4. Click the Graphic Properties button.
5. If you want to use only a television without using the computer display or any other display options:
a. In the new window, click Television so that a red check mark appears over the television icon.
b. Ensure that the settings are correct.
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6. If you want to use a television and the computer display at the same time:
a. In the new window, click Intel (R) Dual Display Clone and ensure that one of the devices
listed is a television.
b. Click Device Settings.
c. In the new window, ensure that the display resolution settings are correct.
7. Click Apply to view the new settings.
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Reinstalling Software
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
Using Microsoft® Windows® System Restore
Reinstalling 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.
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.
To reinstall drivers for optional devices such as wireless communications and DVD drives, you may need the
CD and documentation that came with those devices.
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
not work correctly.
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® Explorer,
click your CD drive directory to display the CD contents, and then double-click the autorcd.exe file.
The 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 Search
Criteria, select the appropriate categories from the System Model, Operating System, and Topic
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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.
6. Click the Install button (if present) to begin installing the driver or utility. At the welcome screen,
follow the screen prompts to complete the installation.
If no Install button is present, automatic installation is not an option. For installation instructions,
either 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
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.
1. After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described previously, click the Start button, point
to Settings, and then click Control Panel. Click the Start button and right-click My Computer.
2. Click Properties.
3. Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
4. Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example, Modems or
Infrared devices).
5. Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
6. Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.
7. Select Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click Next.
8. Click Browse, and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.
9. When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.
10. 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
cannot 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
Device Driver Rollback:
1. Click the Start button and right-click My Computer.
2. Click Properties.
3. Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
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4. In the Device Manager window, right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and then
click Properties.
5. Click the Drivers tab.
6. Click Roll Back Driver.
Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows 2000
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.
1. After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described previously, 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 the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example, Modems or
Infrared 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.
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3. Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
4. In the Device Manager list, check for conflicts with the other devices.
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 to
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.
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10. Resolve any IRQ conflicts.
You can also use the Windows 2000 Hardware Troubleshooter. To use the troubleshooter, click the Start
button 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
a 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
hardware 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 checkpoints
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
return 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 email messages after restoring the computer to an earlier time. If you restore the computer to an operating
state that existed before you installed a program, the program's data files are not lost, but you must reinstall
the actual program again.
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.
System Restore is enabled on your new computer. However, if you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200
MB 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,
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and 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.
Manually Creating a Restore Point
1. Click the Start button, point to All Programso
Accessorieso System 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
Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore.
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 restoration
is complete.
1. Click the Start button, point to All Programso
Accessorieso System 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
points. 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 or
more restore points are available, click the restore point that you want to use.
NOTICE: Save and close all open files and exit all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any
files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
5. Click Next.
In Windows XP, the Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting
data, and then the computer automatically restarts.
6. After the computer restarts, click OK.
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To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can
undo the restoration.
Undoing the Last System Restore
NOTICE: Save and close all open files and exit all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any
files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1. Click the Start button, point to All Programso
Accessorieso System Tools, and then click System Restore.
2. Select Undo my last restoration and click Next.
NOTICE: Save and close all open files and exit all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any
files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
3. Click Next.
The System Restore screen appears, and then the computer automatically restarts.
4. After the computer restarts, click OK.
Reinstalling Windows® XP
Before reinstalling the Microsoft® Windows XP operating system to correct a problem, try correcting the
problem by using Windows System Restore.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling the Windows XP operating system.
The options can potentially overwrite files installed by Dell and possibly affect programs installed on
your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall your operating system unless instructed to do so by a Dell
technical support representative.
1. Insert the Operating System CD.
2. Shut down the computer, and then turn on the computer.
3. Press any key when the Press any key to boot from CD message appears on the screen.
4. When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press  to select To set up Windows now.
5. Read the information in the License Agreement window, and then press  on your keyboard to
agree with the license information.
6. 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 go to step 15.
If you want to install a new copy of Windows XP, press  to select the fresh copy option and then
press  on the next screen to select the highlighted partition (recommended). Then follow the
instructions on the screen.
The Windows XP Setup screen appears and Windows XP begins to copy files and install the device
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drivers. The computer automatically restarts multiple times before it requires additional input.
7. When the Welcome to Microsoft screen appears, click the green arrow icon at the bottom of the
screen to continue. Then follow the instructions on the screen to finish the installation.
8. When the Regional Settings screen appears, select the settings for your locale and click Next.
9. Enter your name and organization in the Personalize Your Software screen and click Next.
10. If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition, enter a name for your computer when the Computer
Name window appear and click Next.
If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional, enter a name for your computer and a password when
the Computer Name and Administrator Password window appears and click Next.
11. If you have a modem installed, the Modem Dialing Information screen appears. Enter the requested
information and click Next.
12. Enter the date, time, and time zone in the Date and Time Settings window and click Next.
13. If your computer has a network adapter, select the appropriate network settings. If your computer does
not have a network adapter, you do not see this option.
Windows XP begins to install its components and configure the computer. The computer automatically
restarts.
14. When the Welcome to Microsoft screen appears, click the green arrow icon at the bottom of the
screen to continue. Then follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
15. Remove the CD from the drive.
16. Reinstall the appropriate drivers.
17. Reinstall your virus protection software.
Reinstalling Windows 2000
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
installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall your operating system unless instructed to do
so by a Dell technical support representative.
1. Turn on the computer, and enter the system setup program as directed by a Dell technical support
representative or as follows:
a. Shut down the computer.
b. Before the computer boots into Windows, press  to enter the system setup program.
c. Press 
 to move to the Boot menu.
d. In the system setup program Boot menu, follow the instructions on the screen to change the
boot sequence so that the CD or DVD drive boots first. Then insert the Operating System CD into
the drive.
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e. Press  to save your changes and exit the system setup program.
f. Press any key to boot the computer from the CD.
2. When the Windows 2000 Setup window appears, ensure that To setup Win2000 now, press
ENTER is highlighted. Then press .
3. Read the information in the License Agreement window and press  to continue.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Press  again to restart your computer.
7. Click Next when the Welcome to the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard window appears.
8. When the Regional Settings window appears, select your region, and then click Next.
9. Enter your name and organization in the Personalize Your Software window and click Next.
10. Enter the Windows product key, which is printed on the Microsoft label on your computer. Then click
Next.
11. When the Computer Name and Administrator Password window appears, enter a name for your
computer and a password, if desired. Then click Next.
12. Enter the date and time in the Date and Time Settings window and click Next.
Windows 2000 installs components and configures the computer.
13. 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.
4. Ensure that Enable hibernate support is selected and click Apply.
5. Click OK to close the Control Panel.
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Cleaning Your Computer
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Cleaning Your Computer
Computer and Keyboard
Display
Touch Pad
Floppy Drive
Optical Media
Computer and Keyboard
1. Shut down your computer, disconnect any attached devices, and disconnect them from their electrical
outlets.
2. Remove any installed batteries.
3. Gently 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.
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.
4. Moisten 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.
Display
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.
1. Shut down your computer, disconnect any attached devices, and disconnect them from their electrical
outlets.
2. Remove any installed batteries.
3. Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water or an LCD cleaner, and wipe the display until it is clean.
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Touch Pad
1. Shut down your computer, disconnect any attached devices, and disconnect them from their electrical
outlets.
2. Remove any installed batteries.
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.
Floppy Drive
Use only a commercially available cleaning kit to clean your floppy drive. Such kits contain pretreated floppy
disks to remove contaminants that accumulate during typical operation.
Optical Media
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.
If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try cleaning the
discs.
1. Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.
2. With a soft, dry, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line
from the center to the outer edge.
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.
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Using the Dell Diagnostics
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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 assistance.
If you are experienced with computers and know what component(s) you need to test, select the appropriate
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.
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.
The diagnostic test groups or subtests also have the following features:
Options that let you perform express, extended, or custom tests on one or all devices
An option that allows you to select tests based on a symptom of the problem you are having
An option that allows you to choose the number of times a test group or subtest is repeated
The ability to display test results
Options to temporarily suspend testing if an error is detected, or to terminate testing
Extensive online Help that describes the tests and devices
Status messages that inform you whether test groups or subtests were completed successfully
Error messages that appear if any problems are detected
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Starting the Dell Diagnostics
The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden Diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell.
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.
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.
4. Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press  immediately. If you wait too long
and 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.
During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
If 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 retest
the component that failed, press .
If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s)
and contact Dell before continuing on to the Dell Diagnostics.
If 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: The Service Tag for your computer is located in the title bar of each 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
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possibility of tracing the problem 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 option lists the most common symptoms.
8. If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears, displaying the error code and a
description 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.
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.
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.
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Solving Problems
Power Problems
Error Messages
Video and Display Problems
Sound and Speaker Problems
Printer Problems
Modem and Internet Connection Problems
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
External Keyboard Problems
Unexpected Characters
Drive Problems
PC Card Problems
Network Problems
General Program Problems
If Your Dell™ Computer Gets Wet
If You Drop or Damage Your Computer
Resolving Other Technical Problems
Power Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
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 standby
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
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orange 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.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
another 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.
Error Messages
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running
at the time the message appeared.
Auxiliary device failure — The touch pad 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
spaces 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 floppy or 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
"Memory."
Disk C: failed initialization — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the Hard-Disk
Drive tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Floppy drive 0 seek failure — The system configuration information may not match the
hardware configuration. Run the Diskette tests as described in "Using the Dell
Diagnostics."
Diskette read failure — The floppy disk may be defective. If the drive access light turns
on, try a different disk. See "Drive Problems."
Diskette subsystem reset failed — The floppy drive controller may be faulty. Run the
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Diskette tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Diskette write-protected — Because the floppy disk is write-protected, the operation
cannot be completed. Slide the write-protect notch.
Drive not ready — The operation requires a floppy disk in the drive or a hard drive in
the bay before it can continue. Insert a floppy disk, or push the floppy disk all the way
into the drive until the eject button pops out. Or, install a hard drive in the hard drive
bay.
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.
Turn off the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a bootable
floppy disk or CD. Then turn off 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 the computer. Turn off the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the
computer from a bootable floppy disk or CD. Then turn off the computer, reinstall the
hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem 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. Turn off the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a
bootable floppy disk or CD. Then turn off the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and
restart the computer. If the problem persists, try 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. Turn off the computer,
remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a bootable floppy disk or CD. Then
turn off the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem
persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests as described in "Using the
Dell Diagnostics."
Insert bootable media — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable floppy
disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.
Invalid configuration information-please run System Setup Program — The system
configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is
most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate
options in the system setup 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
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connection. Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the
boot routine. Run the 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. Turn off the computer, wait 30
seconds, and then restart it. Try to run the program again. If the error message still
appears, see the software documentation.
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
module 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 floppy disk or hard drive. If
the floppy drive is your boot device, ensure that a bootable floppy disk is in the drive.
If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated,
and partitioned as a boot device.
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."
Non-system disk or disk error — A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy
disk and restart the computer.
Not a boot diskette — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable floppy
disk. Insert a bootable floppy disk.
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.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
Click Add or Remove Programs.
Select the program you want to remove.
Click Remove or Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen.
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.
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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 floppy or hard
drive. You may have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the floppy disk or hard
drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility to check the file structure on the floppy
disk or hard drive. See Windows Help for instructions. If a large number of sectors are
defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the floppy disk or hard
drive.
Seek error — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the floppy disk or
hard drive. If the error is on the floppy disk, try another floppy disk.
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 the 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.
Time-of-day not set-please run the System Setup program — The time or date stored in
the 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, or a memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and
the Keyboard Controller test 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 turn off the computer.
Video and Display Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If the display is blank
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
may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on
the computer.
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Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
another 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.
If the display is difficult to read
Adjust the brightness — See "Adjusting Brightness" for instructions on adjusting the
brightness.
Move the subwoofer away from the computer or monitor — If your external speaker
system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the
computer or external monitor.
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
cause poor picture quality.
Adjust the Windows display settings —
Windows XP
1.
2.
3.
4.
Click the Start button and then click Control Panel.
Click Appearance and Themes.
Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.
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."
If only part of the display is readable
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.
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If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact
Dell.
Sound and Speaker Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If you have a problem with integrated 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 the
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."
For Windows 2000 only, ensure that digital audio for the CD drive is enabled —
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
Double-click the System icon.
Click the Hardware tab.
Click Device Manager.
Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives.
Double-click the name of the drive.
On the drive Properties screen, click the Properties tab.
Click the box near the bottom of the screen to enable digital audio for your CD or DVD
drive.
If you have a problem with external speakers
NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have
been 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
another 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 the
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
to check for interference.
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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.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
Double-click the System icon.
Click the Hardware tab.
Click Device Manager.
Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives.
Double-click the name of the drive.
On the drive Properties screen, click the Properties tab.
Click the box near the bottom of the screen to enable digital audio for your CD or DVD
drive.
Printer Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
Check the printer cable connections — Ensure that the printer cable is properly connected to
the computer.
Check the printer cable —
1.
2.
3.
4.
Shut down the computer and turn off the printer.
Swap the printer cable with a cable that you know is working.
Turn on the printer and computer, and try again to print.
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
another 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
the printer icon.
4. Click Properties and click the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port
(s): 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.
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2. Click Properties and click the Ports tab.
3. Ensure that the Print to the following port: option is set for your printer type:
z For a parallel printer: LPT1 (Printer Port)
z For 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.
Modem and Internet Connection Problems
NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only. Connecting the modem to a
digital telephone network may damage the modem.
NOTICE: Modem and network connectors look similar. Do not plug a telephone line in to the network
connector.
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your modem is functioning properly.
If you are sure that your modem is working properly and you still experience problems, contact your
ISP.
Check the telephone wall jack — Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect
it 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
network 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
3 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
when 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
Dialing Rules tab, and then click Edit....
3. In the Edit Location window, ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and
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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.
2.
3.
4.
Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
Click Phone and Modem Options.
Click the Dialing Rules tab and click Edit.
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.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
Click Printers and Other Hardware and click Phone and Modem Options.
Click the Modems tab.
Click the COM port for your modem.
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.
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 the
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.
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
Check the touch pad settings —
Windows XP
1. Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other
Hardware.
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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.
2.
3.
4.
Shut down the computer.
Disconnect the mouse.
Turn on the computer.
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
mouse without making any setting adjustments.)
Test the mouse controller — To test the mouse controller (which affects pointer movement)
and the operation of the touch pad or mouse buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing
Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics.
Reinstall the touch pad driver — See "Reinstalling Software."
External Keyboard Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
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
check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.
If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to
the 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.
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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
keyboard —
1.
2.
3.
4.
Shut down the computer.
Disconnect the external keyboard.
Turn on the computer.
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.
Unexpected Characters
Disable the numeric keypad — Press  to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are
displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.
Drive Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If you cannot save a file to a floppy disk drive
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.
Ensure that the disk is not write-protected — You cannot save data to a write-protected
disk.
Try another floppy disk — Insert another disk to eliminate the possibility that the original disk
is defective.
Reinstall the drive —
1. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
2. Remove the drive from the module bay. See "Using the Module Bay" for instructions.
3. Reinstall the drive.
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4. Turn on the computer.
Clean the drive — 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 Diskette tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW
NOTE: Because of different worldwide file types, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.
High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. The noise does not indicate a defect with the
drive or the CD.
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.
2.
3.
4.
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
Remove the drive. See "Using the Module Bay" for instructions.
Reinstall the drive.
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.
If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray
1. Ensure that the computer is turned off.
2. Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive;
push firmly until the tray is partially ejected.
3. Gently pull out the tray until it stops.
If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound
Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.
Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.
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If the CD-RW or DVD+RW drive stops writing
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
or DVD+RW may alleviate the problem.
If you have problems with a hard drive
Allow the computer to cool before turning it on — A hot hard drive may prevent the
operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before
turning it on.
Check the drive for errors —
Run the Windows error-checking tool:
1. In Windows XP, click the Start button and click My Computer. In Windows 2000, doubleclick 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.
Run the IDE Drives tests as described in the Dell Diagnostics.
PC Card Problems
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 Safely Remove
Hardware (Unplug or Eject Hardware in Windows 2000) 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.
Network Problems
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Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
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.
General Program Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
A program crashes
NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.
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.
A program stops responding
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.
A solid blue screen appears
Turn the computer off — If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper
shutdown, press the power button until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to
restart the computer.
Windows XP
The computer restarts.
Windows 2000
The solid blue screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows
shutdown. ScanDisk automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on
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the screen.
Error messages appear
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 softwarerelated. See the software documentation.
If Your Dell™ Computer Gets Wet
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 power
at the circuit breaker before attempting to remove the power cables from the electrical
outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing wet cables from a live power source.
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
the 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.
NOTICE: Do not use artificial means, such as a hair dryer or a fan, to speed the drying process.
CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is thoroughly dry before
continuing with the rest of this procedure.
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.
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14. Replace the battery.
15. Turn on the computer and verify that it is working properly.
NOTE: See your System Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with
your computer for information on your warranty coverage.
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
the computer.
4. Remove and reinstall the battery.
5. Turn on the computer.
NOTE: See your System Information Guide for information on your warranty coverage.
If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, contact Dell.
Resolving Other Technical Problems
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
message from Dell within hours. See "Getting Help" for a description of the hardware and
software support provided by Dell.
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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Solving Problems
Power Problems
Error Messages
Video and Display Problems
Sound and Speaker Problems
Printer Problems
Modem and Internet Connection Problems
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
External Keyboard Problems
Unexpected Characters
Drive Problems
PC Card Problems
Network Problems
General Program Problems
If Your Dell™ Computer Gets Wet
If You Drop or Damage Your Computer
Resolving Other Technical Problems
Power Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
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 standby
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
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orange 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.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
another 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.
Error Messages
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running
at the time the message appeared.
Auxiliary device failure — The touch pad 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
spaces 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 floppy or 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
"Memory."
Disk C: failed initialization — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the Hard-Disk
Drive tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Floppy drive 0 seek failure — The system configuration information may not match the
hardware configuration. Run the Diskette tests as described in "Using the Dell
Diagnostics."
Diskette read failure — The floppy disk may be defective. If the drive access light turns
on, try a different disk. See "Drive Problems."
Diskette subsystem reset failed — The floppy drive controller may be faulty. Run the
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Diskette tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
Diskette write-protected — Because the floppy disk is write-protected, the operation
cannot be completed. Slide the write-protect notch.
Drive not ready — The operation requires a floppy disk in the drive or a hard drive in
the bay before it can continue. Insert a floppy disk, or push the floppy disk all the way
into the drive until the eject button pops out. Or, install a hard drive in the hard drive
bay.
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.
Turn off the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a bootable
floppy disk or CD. Then turn off 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 the computer. Turn off the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the
computer from a bootable floppy disk or CD. Then turn off the computer, reinstall the
hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem 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. Turn off the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a
bootable floppy disk or CD. Then turn off the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and
restart the computer. If the problem persists, try 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. Turn off the computer,
remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a bootable floppy disk or CD. Then
turn off the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem
persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests as described in "Using the
Dell Diagnostics."
Insert bootable media — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable floppy
disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.
Invalid configuration information-please run System Setup Program — The system
configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is
most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate
options in the system setup 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
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connection. Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the
boot routine. Run the 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. Turn off the computer, wait 30
seconds, and then restart it. Try to run the program again. If the error message still
appears, see the software documentation.
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
module 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 floppy disk or hard drive. If
the floppy drive is your boot device, ensure that a bootable floppy disk is in the drive.
If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated,
and partitioned as a boot device.
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."
Non-system disk or disk error — A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy
disk and restart the computer.
Not a boot diskette — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable floppy
disk. Insert a bootable floppy disk.
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.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
Click Add or Remove Programs.
Select the program you want to remove.
Click Remove or Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen.
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.
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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 floppy or hard
drive. You may have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the floppy disk or hard
drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility to check the file structure on the floppy
disk or hard drive. See Windows Help for instructions. If a large number of sectors are
defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the floppy disk or hard
drive.
Seek error — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the floppy disk or
hard drive. If the error is on the floppy disk, try another floppy disk.
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 the 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.
Time-of-day not set-please run the System Setup program — The time or date stored in
the 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, or a memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and
the Keyboard Controller test 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 turn off the computer.
Video and Display Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If the display is blank
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
may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on
the computer.
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Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
another 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.
If the display is difficult to read
Adjust the brightness — See "Adjusting Brightness" for instructions on adjusting the
brightness.
Move the subwoofer away from the computer or monitor — If your external speaker
system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the
computer or external monitor.
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
cause poor picture quality.
Adjust the Windows display settings —
Windows XP
1.
2.
3.
4.
Click the Start button and then click Control Panel.
Click Appearance and Themes.
Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.
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."
If only part of the display is readable
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.
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If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact
Dell.
Sound and Speaker Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If you have a problem with integrated 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 the
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."
For Windows 2000 only, ensure that digital audio for the CD drive is enabled —
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
Double-click the System icon.
Click the Hardware tab.
Click Device Manager.
Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives.
Double-click the name of the drive.
On the drive Properties screen, click the Properties tab.
Click the box near the bottom of the screen to enable digital audio for your CD or DVD
drive.
If you have a problem with external speakers
NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have
been 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
another 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 the
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
to check for interference.
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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.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
Double-click the System icon.
Click the Hardware tab.
Click Device Manager.
Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives.
Double-click the name of the drive.
On the drive Properties screen, click the Properties tab.
Click the box near the bottom of the screen to enable digital audio for your CD or DVD
drive.
Printer Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
Check the printer cable connections — Ensure that the printer cable is properly connected to
the computer.
Check the printer cable —
1.
2.
3.
4.
Shut down the computer and turn off the printer.
Swap the printer cable with a cable that you know is working.
Turn on the printer and computer, and try again to print.
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
another 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
the printer icon.
4. Click Properties and click the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port
(s): 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.
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2. Click Properties and click the Ports tab.
3. Ensure that the Print to the following port: option is set for your printer type:
z For a parallel printer: LPT1 (Printer Port)
z For 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.
Modem and Internet Connection Problems
NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only. Connecting the modem to a
digital telephone network may damage the modem.
NOTICE: Modem and network connectors look similar. Do not plug a telephone line in to the network
connector.
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your modem is functioning properly.
If you are sure that your modem is working properly and you still experience problems, contact your
ISP.
Check the telephone wall jack — Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect
it 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
network 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
3 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
when 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
Dialing Rules tab, and then click Edit....
3. In the Edit Location window, ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and
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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.
2.
3.
4.
Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
Click Phone and Modem Options.
Click the Dialing Rules tab and click Edit.
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.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
Click Printers and Other Hardware and click Phone and Modem Options.
Click the Modems tab.
Click the COM port for your modem.
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.
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 the
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.
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
Check the touch pad settings —
Windows XP
1. Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other
Hardware.
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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.
2.
3.
4.
Shut down the computer.
Disconnect the mouse.
Turn on the computer.
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
mouse without making any setting adjustments.)
Test the mouse controller — To test the mouse controller (which affects pointer movement)
and the operation of the touch pad or mouse buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing
Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics.
Reinstall the touch pad driver — See "Reinstalling Software."
External Keyboard Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
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
check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.
If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to
the 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.
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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
keyboard —
1.
2.
3.
4.
Shut down the computer.
Disconnect the external keyboard.
Turn on the computer.
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.
Unexpected Characters
Disable the numeric keypad — Press  to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are
displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.
Drive Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If you cannot save a file to a floppy disk drive
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.
Ensure that the disk is not write-protected — You cannot save data to a write-protected
disk.
Try another floppy disk — Insert another disk to eliminate the possibility that the original disk
is defective.
Reinstall the drive —
1. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
2. Remove the drive from the module bay. See "Using the Module Bay" for instructions.
3. Reinstall the drive.
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4. Turn on the computer.
Clean the drive — 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 Diskette tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."
If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW
NOTE: Because of different worldwide file types, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.
High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. The noise does not indicate a defect with the
drive or the CD.
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.
2.
3.
4.
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
Remove the drive. See "Using the Module Bay" for instructions.
Reinstall the drive.
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.
If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray
1. Ensure that the computer is turned off.
2. Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive;
push firmly until the tray is partially ejected.
3. Gently pull out the tray until it stops.
If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound
Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.
Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.
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If the CD-RW or DVD+RW drive stops writing
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
or DVD+RW may alleviate the problem.
If you have problems with a hard drive
Allow the computer to cool before turning it on — A hot hard drive may prevent the
operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before
turning it on.
Check the drive for errors —
Run the Windows error-checking tool:
1. In Windows XP, click the Start button and click My Computer. In Windows 2000, doubleclick 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.
Run the IDE Drives tests as described in the Dell Diagnostics.
PC Card Problems
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 Safely Remove
Hardware (Unplug or Eject Hardware in Windows 2000) 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.
Network Problems
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Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
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.
General Program Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
A program crashes
NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.
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.
A program stops responding
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.
A solid blue screen appears
Turn the computer off — If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper
shutdown, press the power button until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to
restart the computer.
Windows XP
The computer restarts.
Windows 2000
The solid blue screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows
shutdown. ScanDisk automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on
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the screen.
Error messages appear
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 softwarerelated. See the software documentation.
If Your Dell™ Computer Gets Wet
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 power
at the circuit breaker before attempting to remove the power cables from the electrical
outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing wet cables from a live power source.
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
the 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.
NOTICE: Do not use artificial means, such as a hair dryer or a fan, to speed the drying process.
CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is thoroughly dry before
continuing with the rest of this procedure.
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.
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14. Replace the battery.
15. Turn on the computer and verify that it is working properly.
NOTE: See your System Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with
your computer for information on your warranty coverage.
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
the computer.
4. Remove and reinstall the battery.
5. Turn on the computer.
NOTE: See your System Information Guide for information on your warranty coverage.
If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, contact Dell.
Resolving Other Technical Problems
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
message from Dell within hours. See "Getting Help" for a description of the hardware and
software support provided by Dell.
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 PC Cards
PC Card Types
Extended PC Cards
Installing a PC Card
Removing a PC Card
CAUTION: Before performing any of the procedures listed below, read and follow the safety
instructions in the System Information Guide.
PC Card Types
See "Specifications" for information on supported PC Cards.
NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device.
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.
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:
Protect the exposed end of an installed card. Striking the end of the card can damage the system
board.
Always remove an extended PC Card before you pack the computer in its carrying case.
Install an extended card in the upper PC Card connector to allow room for a second PC Card.
Installing a PC Card
You can install a PC Card in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects
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.
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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.
The latch needs 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
the PC Card.
Removing a PC Card
NOTICE: Before you remove a PC Card from the computer, click the
icon on the taskbar to select
a card and stop it from functioning. 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.
1. Press the eject button.
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eject button
2. Push the eject button a second time.
3. Gently remove the card.
eject button
PC Card
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Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network
Determining Your Network Type
Connecting to a Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP
Finalizing Your Network Connection (Security Settings)
NOTE: These networking instructions do not apply to Bluetooth™ or cellular products.
Before you can connect to a wireless Local Area Network (LAN), you must have specific information about
your network. Be sure to get the name of your wireless network along with any special security settings from
your network administrator. The settings are unique to your network and cannot be provided by Dell.
Determining Your Network Type
NOTE: Most wireless networks are of the infrastructure type. Consult your network administrator if you
are unsure of the type of network you are connecting to.
Wireless networks fall into two categories—infrastructure networks and ad-hoc networks. An infrastructure
network uses routers or access points to connect several computers. An ad-hoc network does not use routers
or access points and consists of computers that broadcast to one another.
infrastructure network
Ad-Hoc network
Connecting to a Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP
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Your wireless network card requires proper software and drivers in order to connect to a network. The
software is pre-installed in the factory. If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions listed in
the User's Guide for your wireless card. The User's Guide is located on your Drivers and Utilities CD (that
came with your computer) in the "User's Guides-Network User's Guides" category. The User's Guide is also
available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
1. Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Switch to Classic View.
2. Double-click Network Connections.
3. Click Wireless Network Connection.
The Wireless Network Connection icon is highlighted.
4. Under Network Tasks in the left-hand pane, click Change settings of this connection.
The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears.
5. Select the Wireless Networks tab.
NOTE: The names of wireless networks that your computer can detect are listed under Available
Networks.
6. Click Add.
The Wireless network properties window appears.
7. Enter the name of your network in the Network name (SSID) field.
8. If you are connecting to an ad-hoc network, which does not use any routers or access points, click the
check box labeled This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network; wireless access points are
not used.
9. Click OK.
Your new network name appears in the Preferred networks area.
Finalizing Your Network Connection (Security Settings)
To finalize your connection, you must change your wireless security settings to match the wireless network
you are trying to connect to. Choose one of the following connection options based on the security settings for
your network:
Connecting to a Network without Security-Related Requirements (common for home and small office
networks)
Connecting to a Network with Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) Security Requirements
Connecting to a Network with Wired Equivalent Protocol (WEP) Security Requirements
NOTE: Network security settings are only provided by your network administrator and are unique to
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your network. Dell cannot provide this information.
Connecting to a Network Without Security-Related
Requirements
1. In the Preferred networks area, click the name of your wireless network.
2. Click Properties.
3. From the Network Authentication drop-down menu, select Open.
Earlier versions of the Dell™ wireless software may not contain the
drop-down menu. If you are using an earlier version, click to uncheck the Data encryption (WEP
enabled) check box and go to step 5.
4. From the Data encryption drop-down menu, select Disabled.
NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.
5. Click OK.
Your network setup is complete.
Connecting to a Network With Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)
Security Requirements
The following instructions are basic steps for connecting to a WPA network. If your network requires a user
name, password, or domain settings, consult the setup instructions in the User's Guide for your wireless
network card.
NOTE: WPA protocols require that you know the Network Authentication and Data Encryption settings
for your wireless network. In addition, your WPA-protected network may require special settings such
as a network key, user name, password, and domain name. Be sure to get all necessary WPA settings
from your network administrator before continuing.
1. In the Preferred networks section, click the name of your wireless network.
2. Click Properties.
3. From the Network Authentication drop-down menu, select your network authentication type (as
provided by the network administrator).
If you do not see the drop-down menu, you must update your wireless software before continuing.
Download and install the latest version of your wireless driver software from the Dell Support website at
support.dell.com.
4. From the Data encryption drop-down menu, select your data encryption type (as provided by the
network administrator).
5. If your wireless network requires a key, enter it in the Network key field.
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NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.
6. Click OK.
Your network setup is complete.
Connecting to a Network With Wired Equivalent Protocol (WEP)
Security Requirements
1. In the Preferred networks section, click the name of your wireless network.
2. Click Properties.
3. From the Network Authentication drop-down menu, select Open.
Earlier versions of Dell wireless software may not contain the drop-down menus. If you are using an
earlier version, click to check the check box labeled Data encryption (WEP enabled) and go to
step 5.
4. From the Data encryption drop-down menu, select WEP.
5. If the wireless network does not require a network key (for example, a password), go to step 8.
6. Click to uncheck the check box labeled The key is provided for me automatically.
7. Enter the WEP network key, provided by your network administrator, in the Network key field.
8. Enter the WEP network key again in the Confirm network key field.
NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.
9. Click OK.
Your network setup is complete.
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Power Management
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Power Management
Power Management Tips
Power Management Wizard
Power Management Modes
Power Options Properties
Power Management Tips
NOTE: See "Using a Battery" for more information on conserving battery power.
Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible because battery life is largely determined by
the number of times the battery is charged.
Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for
long periods of time.
To enter a power management mode, close the display or press .
To exit a power management mode, press the power button.
Power Management Wizard
NOTE: The Power Management Wizard is not available if you have restricted access rights.
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.
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.
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:
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Set standby-mode password options.
Enable or disable hibernate mode.
Select how the computer will respond when you close the display:
Choose no action.
Enter standby mode.
Enter hibernate mode.
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Select 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).
Select 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
NOTE: When your computer is running on battery power, the Network Disabled power scheme
disables your internal network and wireless activity. When your computer is connected to an electrical
outlet, the Network Disabled power scheme disables only your wireless activity. You must set the
power scheme through QuickSet (not Microsoft® Windows®) for Network Disabled to work.
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).
NOTE: QuickSet automatically adds the word (QuickSet) after the names of power schemes created
using QuickSet.
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 for
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
level.
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The display brightness, internal network-card activity, and wireless activity features are not available through
the Microsoft® Windows® Control Panel power schemes. In order to make use of these value-added
features, you must set them through QuickSet power schemes.
NOTE: Brightness shortcut keys 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 and you
try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter appears, but the brightness level on the
monitor does not change.
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 percent to remind you to save work and switch
to AC power, and you can set the critical-battery alarm to 10 percent to enter hibernate mode. From the
screen, you can:
Select whether the alarm will notify you by sound or text.
Adjust the power level at which you want the alarm to notify you.
Select 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
computer. 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
in before entering standby mode.
NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby mode, it may lose data.
To enter standby mode:
In the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system, click the Start button, click Turn off computer,
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and then click Stand by.
In Windows 2000, click the Start button, click Shutdown, click Standby, and then click OK.
or
Depending on how you set the power management options on the Advanced tab in the Power
Options 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
the Advanced tab. You cannot make the computer exit standby mode by pressing a key or touching the
touch pad.
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
operating state it was in before entering hibernate mode.
NOTICE: You cannot remove devices or disconnect your computer from a docking device while your
computer is in hibernate mode.
Your computer enters hibernate mode if the battery charge level becomes critically low.
To manually enter hibernate mode:
In Windows XP, click the Start button, click Turn off computer, press and hold  key, 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
Depending on how you set the power management options on the Advanced tab in the Power
Options Properties window, use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:
Close the display.
Press .
NOTE: Some PC Cards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove
and reinsert the card, or simply restart (reboot) your computer.
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. For more
information on hibernate mode, see the documentation that came with your operating system.
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Power Options Properties
The Power Options Properties window helps you to manage power consumption and monitor battery
charge status. To access the Microsoft Windows Power Options Properties window:
In Windows XP, click the Start button, click Control Panel, click Performance and Maintenance,
and then click Power Options.
In 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
do 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 (for Windows
2000)."
Each preset power scheme has different time-out settings for entering standby mode, turning off the display,
and turning off the hard drive. For more information on power management options, see the Help and Support
Center (Windows Help in Windows 2000).
Alarms Tab
NOTE: To enable audible alarms, click each Alarm Action button and select Sound alarm.
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
Critical 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:
Set power icon and standby mode password options.
Program 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).
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To program these functions, click an option from the corresponding drop-down menu and then click OK.
Hibernate Tab
The Hibernate tab lets you enable hibernate mode by clicking the Enable hibernate support check box.
Intel SpeedStep™ Technology Tab (for Windows 2000)
NOTE: Windows XP controls the performance level of the processor depending on the power scheme
that you select. See "Power Schemes Tab."
NOTE: To use Intel SpeedStep technology, a Windows operating system must be running.
Depending on your operating system and microprocessor, the Power Options Properties window includes
the Intel SpeedStep™ technology tab. Intel SpeedStep technology allows you to set the performance level
of the processor according to whether the computer is running on battery or AC power. Depending on your
operating system, typical options are:
Automatic — 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 runs
in Battery Optimized mode.
Maximum Performance — The processor runs at its highest possible speed even if the computer is
running on battery power.
Battery Optimized Performance — Processor speed is optimized for battery power even if the
computer is connected to an electrical outlet.
Maximum 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:
Disable Intel SpeedStep technology control
Remove flag icon (from the notification area)
Disable 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.
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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 CDs or DVDs
About the Module Bay
CAUTION: Before performing any of the following procedures, read and follow the safety
instructions in the System Information Guide.
You can install devices such as a floppy drive, CD drive, CD-RW drive, DVD drive, CD-RW/DVD drive,
DVD+RW, second battery, or second hard drive in the module bay.
NOTE: You do not need to install the device screw unless you want to secure the module inside the
computer for security purposes.
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
has no charge.
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1 status button on the
battery charge gauge
2 second battery (bottom)
Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is
Turned Off
CAUTION: Before performing any of the following procedures, read and follow the safety
instructions in the System Information Guide.
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).
Your 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.
NOTE: You do not need to install the device screw unless you want to secure the module inside the
computer for security purposes.
If the Device Screw Is Not Installed
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.
1. Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.
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device latch release
2. Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.
3. Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the device latch
release in so that it is flush with the computer.
If the Device Screw Is Installed
1. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then 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.
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.
device latch release
5. Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.
6. Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.
7. Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the device latch
release in so that it is flush with the computer.
8. Replace the device screw.
9. Turn on the computer.
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Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is
Running
CAUTION: Before performing any of the following procedures, read and follow the safety
instructions in the System Information Guide.
Your 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.
NOTE: You do not need to install the device screw unless you want to secure the module inside the
computer for security purposes.
If the Device Screw Is Not Installed
Microsoft® Windows® XP
1. Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.
2. Click Stop and wait for the operating system to confirm that the device has stopped.
3. Click the device you want to eject.
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.
4. Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.
device latch release
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5. Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.
6. Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the device latch
release in so that it is flush with the computer. Windows XP automatically recognizes the new device.
7. 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 so that the latch release pops out.
device latch release
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4. Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.
5. Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the device latch
release in so that it is flush with the computer.
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.
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.
4. Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the device screw from the bottom of the computer.
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device latch release
5. Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.
6. Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.
7. Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the device latch
release in so that it is flush with the computer. 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. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for instructions.
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4. Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the device screw from the bottom of the computer.
device latch release
5. Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.
6. Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.
7. Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the device latch
release in so that it is flush with the computer.
8. When the operating system recognizes the new device, click Close.
Using CDs or DVDs
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Using the CD or DVD Tray
NOTICE: Do not press down on the drive tray when opening or closing it. Keep the tray closed when
you are not using the drive.
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing CDs or DVDs.
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.
NOTICE: Ensure that you snap the disc onto the spindle. Otherwise you may damage the drive tray, or
your CD or DVD will not work properly.
4. Snap the disc onto the spindle.
eject button
5. Push the tray back into the drive.
NOTE: If you use a module 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.
You can play a DVD on your computer if the computer shipped with a DVD drive or a CD-RW/DVD combo
drive. You can write data to a CD-R/CD-RW on your computer if the computer shipped with a CD-RW or CDRW/DVD combo drive.
For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD player or DVD player (if available).
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Adjusting the Volume
NOTE: If the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.
1. Click the Start button, point to All Programso Accessorieso Entertainment (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
bar 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.
volume icon
Volume Meter
mute icon
NOTE: By default, the Volume 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 location.
When the meter is enabled, adjust the volume using the volume control buttons or by pressing the following
keys:
Press  to increase volume.
Press  to decrease volume.
Press  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.
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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 Change the screen resolution.
4. In the Display Properties window, click and drag the bar in Screen resolution to change the setting
to 1024 by 768 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 1024 by 768 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
Removing and Installing a Reserve Battery
Installing a Battery
Storing a Battery
Battery Performance
NOTE: Batteries for portable computers are covered under warranty only during the initial 1-year
period of the limited warranty for the computer. For more information about the Dell warranty for the
computer, see the System Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with
your computer.
For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer
with the main battery installed at all times. Use a battery to run the computer when the computer is not
connected to an electrical outlet. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.
NOTE: For more information on maximizing battery operating time, see "Power Management."
Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. With average usage, you may expect from 3
to 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."
NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD.
Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the
following:
Using optical drives, especially DVD and CD-RW drives
Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, or USB devices
Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs, such as
3D games
Running the computer in maximum performance mode
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You can check the battery charge on the bottom of the computer. You can also set power management
options to alert you when the battery charge is low.
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 with
your computer.
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
disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See the battery disposal instructions 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 (149°
F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme
care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.
Checking the Battery Charge
The Dell QuickSet battery meter, 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
second batteries in your computer.
The following icons appear in the Battery Meter screen:
The computer is running on battery power.
The battery is discharging or idle.
The computer is connected to an electrical outlet and running on AC power.
The battery is charging.
The computer is connected to an electrical outlet and running on AC power.
The battery is discharging, idle, or charging.
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.
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Charge Gauge
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 has no charge.
Health Gauge
The battery operating time is largely determined by the number of times it is charged. After hundreds of
charge and discharge cycles, batteries lose some charge capacity, or battery health. To check the battery
health, press and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights
appear, the battery is 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
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 the
battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.
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
is at a critically low level. For more information on low-battery alarms, see "Power Management."
Charging the Battery
NOTE: The AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately 1 hour with the
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computer turned off. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in
the computer as long as you like. The battery internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.
When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is connected to
an 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.
Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and allow the computer and the battery to cool to 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."
Removing a Battery
CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, read and follow the safety
instructions in the System Information Guide.
For more information about removing the second battery, see "Using the Module Bay."
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.
1. Ensure that the computer is turned off, disconnected from an electrical outlet, and disconnected from
the telephone wall jack.
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
battery from the bay.
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Removing and Installing a Reserve Battery
CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, read and follow the safety
instructions in the System Information Guide.
1. Remove the battery.
2. Remove the reserve battery cover.
3. Pull the reserve battery out of its compartment, and disconnect the reserve battery cable from the
connector.
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reserve battery cable
connector
reserve battery
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4. Connect the reserve battery cable to the connector in the reserve battery compartment.
5. Place the reserve battery in the compartment, and replace the reserve battery cover.
Installing a Battery
CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, read and follow the safety
instructions in the System Information Guide.
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Slide the battery into the bay until the latch release clicks.
For more 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
during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully before you use it.
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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
the 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.
Brightness 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 location.
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 and
you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter appears, but the brightness level on the
monitor does not change.
You can enable or disable the Brightness Meter from the QuickSet taskbar menu. When the meter is
enabled, press the following keys to adjust brightness:
Press  up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external
monitor).
Press  down-arrow key 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
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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.
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, and external DVI monitor only.
NOTE: : You cannot use  to switch the video image between the integrated display and an
external S-Video device.
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 reference.
NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with
your Dell-installed operating system.
If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust
automatically to the closest possible setting.
NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen.
If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode. In
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 to pan up,
down, left, and right.
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.
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.
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Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
Numeric Keypad
Keyboard Shortcuts
Touch Pad
Customizing the Touch Pad
Numeric Keypad
NOTE: When you connect an external keyboard or keypad to the computer, the keypad is disabled.
The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has
multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To
type a number or symbol, enable the keypad, hold down  and press the desired key.
To enable the keypad, press . The
To disable the keypad, press  again.
light indicates that the keypad is active.
Keyboard Shortcuts
System Functions
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Opens the Windows Task Manager window
Enables and disables the numeric keypad (on an external keyboard only)
Enables and disables the scroll lock
Battery
Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter.
CD or DVD Tray
Ejects the tray out of the drive.
Display Functions
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, and an
external DVI monitor only.
Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor)
Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor)
Radios (Including Wireless Networking and Bluetooth™)
Enables and disables radios, including wireless networking and Bluetooth.
Power Management
Activates the power management mode of your choice. You can program this keyboard
shortcut on the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window.
Speaker Functions
If no sound comes from the speakers, press  and adjust the volume.
Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attached
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Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attached
Enables and disables the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attached
Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions
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
To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, and click Printers
and Other Hardware (for Windows XP) or double-click the Keyboard icon (for 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.
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touch pad
touch pad buttons
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To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad.
To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left
touch-pad button.
To 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
object by sliding your finger across the surface.
To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and then tap twice on the touch pad, or use
your thumb to press the left touch-pad button twice.
Customizing the Touch Pad
You can disable the touch pad or adjust its settings by using the Mouse Properties window.
1. In Windows XP, open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click Mouse.
In Windows 2000, open the Control Panel and double-click the Mouse icon.
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2. On the Mouse Properties window:
Click the Device Select tab to disable the touch pad.
Click the Pointer tab to adjust touch pad settings.
3. Select the desired settings and click Apply.
4. Click OK to save the settings and close the window.
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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
click, or right-click the icon.
icon located in the taskbar and functions differently when you click, double-
Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Click the
icon to perform the following tasks:
Adjust power management settings using the Power Management Wizard.
Adjust the size of icons and toolbars.
Select a power scheme that you set in the Power Management Wizard.
Turn 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:
Enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen.
Enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.
Turn wireless activity on or off.
View Dell QuickSet Help.
View the version and copyright date of the QuickSet program installed on your computer.
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For more information about QuickSet, right-click the
Page 2 of 2
icon in the taskbar and click Help.
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About Microsoft® Windows® XP
Page 1 of 4
About Microsoft® Windows® XP
Help and Support Center
Switching to Classic View
Desktop Cleanup Wizard
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
Program Compatibility Wizard
User Accounts and Fast User Switching
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 earlier 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.
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4. Select Classic Start Menu and click OK.
Window and Button Appearance
1. Right-click anywhere on the main desktop screen and click Properties.
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 programs that are not frequently used 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 programs 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.
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
vary from just a few minutes to several hours.
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You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or direct serial connection, or you can store it
on 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 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
to 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.
If you experience problems with your operating system or other programs after performing an installation,
you can use the system restore feature to return your computer to a previous stable condition.
For more information, see the Help and Support Center.
User Accounts and Fast User Switching
Fast User Switching allows multiple users to access the computer. After you log on to the computer with your
specific settings, including the desktop and various programs, other users can log on to the computer without
requiring you to first log off. New users log on and switch from your session to their own. New users can run
their desktop and programs without interfering with yours. You can switch back to your desktop and programs
with the original settings. For more information, see the Help and Support Center.
Special Considerations With Fast User Switching
Computers with low memory configurations can experience problems. The computer uses memory to
keep your programs running in the background while a second user is logged on, which can cause the
computer to run slowly. Fast User Switching is off by default on computers with less than 128 MB of
RAM.
Fast User Switching is disabled in Windows XP Professional when the computer is a member of a
computer domain.
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
resources, such as files, printers, or an Internet connection, between computers in a home or small office. For
more information, see the Help and Support Center.
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Internet Connection Firewall
The Internet Connection Firewall provides basic protection from unauthorized access to the computer while
the 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 Help and Support Center.
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About Your Computer
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About Your Computer
Front View
Left View
Right View
Back View
Bottom View
Front View
display
speakers
power button
touch pad buttons
device status lights
touch pad
keyboard
keyboard status lights
display latch
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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 exit a power management mode.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft® Windows®
operating system shutdown rather than by pressing the power button.
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
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 flashing.
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 on your computer, so the
icon turns on only if you ordered
Bluetooth with your computer. For more information, see the documentation that came with your
Bluetooth wireless technology.
If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the
light operates as follows:
Solid green: The battery is charging.
Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged.
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If the computer is running on a battery, the
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light operates as follows:
Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off).
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 Windows logo key
information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad."
. For
display latch — Keeps the display closed.
speakers — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume control buttons, mute button,
or volume-control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad."
touch pad buttons — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" for
more information.
touch pad — Provides the functionality of a mouse. See "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" for more
information.
keyboard status lights
The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:
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.
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Left View
air vents (2)
infrared sensor
IEEE 1394 connector
audio connectors (2)
PC Card slot
security cable slot
air vents — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the
computer from overheating.
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
not store your Dell™ 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.
PC Card slot — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter. For more information, see
"Using PC Cards."
infrared sensor — Lets you transfer files from your computer to another infrared-compatible device without
using cable connections.
IEEE 1394 connector —
Use to attach devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras.
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, the Help and Support Center, or the
documentation that came with your infrared-compatible device.
audio connectors
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About Your Computer
Attach a microphone to the
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connector.
Attach headphones or speakers to the
connector.
security cable slot — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more
information, see the instructions included with the device.
NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot.
Right View
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About Your Computer
security cable slot
module bay
device latch release
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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.
NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot.
module bay — You can install devices such as an optical drive or a Dell TravelLite™ module in the module
bay. For more information, see "Using the Module Bay."
device latch release — Releases the module bay device. See "Using the Module Bay" for instructions.
Back View
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CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do
not 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.
1 USB connectors (2)
6 video connector
2 S-video TV-out connector
7 serial connector
3 modem connector (RJ-11) (optional) 8 AC adapter connector
4 network connector (RJ-45)
9 air vents
5 parallel connector
USB connectors
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.
S-video TV-out connector
Connects your computer to a TV. For more information, see "Connecting a Television to the
Computer."
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modem connector (RJ-11) (optional)
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 for Your Computer."
network connector (RJ-45)
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 device user's guide supplied with
your computer. See "Finding Information for Your Computer."
parallel connector
Connects a parallel device, such as a printer.
video connector
Connects an external monitor. For more information, see "Using the Display."
serial connector
Connects serial devices, such as a mouse or handheld device.
AC adapter connector — Attach an AC adapter to the computer.
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The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC
adapter with your computer turned either on or off.
CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power
connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or
improperly 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.
air vents — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the
computer from overheating.
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
not 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.
Bottom View
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1 memory module cover
Page 10 of 11
5 docking device slot
2 battery-bay latch release 6 fan
3 battery charge gauge
7 Mini PCI card cover
4 battery
8 hard drive
memory module cover — Covers the compartment that contains the memory module(s). See "Adding and
Replacing Parts."
battery-bay latch release — Releases the battery. See "Using a Battery" for instructions.
battery charge gauge — Provides information on the battery charge. 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."
docking device slot — Lets you attach your computer to a docking device. See the documentation that came
with your docking device for additional information.
fan — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer
from overheating.
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
not 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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Mini PCI card cover — Covers the compartment that contains the Mini PCI card. See "Adding and Replacing
Parts."
hard drive — Stores software and data.
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Finding Information for Your Computer
Page 1 of 3
Finding Information for Your Computer
What are you looking
for?
Find It Here
A diagnostic
program for my
computer
Drivers for my
computer
My computer
documentation
My device
documentation
Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD)
How to set up my
computer
Warranty
information
Safety instructions
Dell™ System Information Guide
Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can
use the CD to reinstall drivers, run the Dell Diagnostics, or access your
documentation.
Readme files may be included on your CD to provide last-minute updates about
technical changes to your computer or advanced technical-reference material
for technicians or experienced users.
NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at support.dell.com.
How to remove and
replace parts
Technical
specifications
How to configure
system settings
How to troubleshoot
and solve problems
User's Guide
Windows XP Help and Support Center
1. Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2. Click User's and system guides and click User's guides.
Microsoft Windows 2000
Double-click the User's Guides icon
Service Tag and
Express Service
on your desktop.
Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License
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Finding Information for Your Computer
Code
Microsoft Windows
License Label
These labels are located on your computer.
Page 2 of 3
Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use
support.dell.com or contact technical support.
Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting
technical support. The Express Service Code is not available in all
countries.
Use the number on the Microsoft Windows License Label if you reinstall
your operating system.
Latest drivers for my Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
computer
Answers to technical
The Dell Support website provides several online tools, including:
service and support
questions
z Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians,
Online discussions
and online courses
with other users and
z Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers
technical support
z Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as memory, the
Documentation for
hard drive, and the operating system
my computer
z Customer Care — Contact information, order status, warranty, and
repair information
z Downloads — Drivers, patches, and software updates
z Reference — Computer documentation, product specifications, and white
papers
Service call status
and support history
Top technical issues
for my computer
Frequently asked
questions
File downloads
Details on my
computer
configuration
Service contract for
my computer
Dell Premier Support Website — premiersupport.dell.com
The Dell Premier Support website is customized for corporate, government,
and education customers. This website may not be available in all regions.
How to use Windows Windows Help and Support Center
XP
Documentation for
1. Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
my computer
2. Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow
Documentation for
icon.
devices (such as a
3. Click the topic that describes your problem.
modem)
4. Follow the instructions on the screen.
How to reinstall my
operating system
Operating System CD
The operating system is already installed on your computer. To resintall your
operating system, use the Operating System CD. See your User's Guide for
operating system reinstallation instructions.
After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities CD to
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Page 3 of 3
reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.
Your operating system product key label is located on your computer.
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