Dell 5HCKT Notebook Computer w/ Intel PRO/Wireless 2195ABG User Manual book

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Document ID	593650
Application ID	UCNL7O8XboumLMdduLuTzw==
Document Description	Users Manual 2
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Permanent Confidential	No
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Document Type	User Manual
Display Format	Adobe Acrobat PDF - pdf
Filesize	311.25kB (3890571 bits)
Date Submitted	2005-10-19 00:00:00
Date Available	2005-10-19 00:00:00
Creation Date	2005-09-28 09:35:20
Producing Software	Acrobat Distiller 6.0 (Windows)
Document Lastmod	2005-10-13 10:39:06
Document Title	book.book
Document Creator	FrameMaker 7.1
Document Author:	cathy_tesch

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11
Solving Problems
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software
Problems" on page 88 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical
assistance.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with your computer.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also
known as the ResourceCD).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
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. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
1 Shut down the computer.
2 Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3 Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:
Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press  immediately.
Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press .
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see
the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
Press and hold the  key while powering the system on.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell
Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities CD.
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The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment, a series of initial tests of your system
board, keyboard, hard drive, and display.
•
During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
•
If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart
the computer, 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.
If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you receive the message Booting
Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue.
4 Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your
hard drive.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may be optional and may not ship with your computer.
1 Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.
2 Shut down and restart 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.
NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer
boots according to the devices specified in the system setup program.
3 When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive and press .
4 Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears and press .
5 Type 1 to start the ResourceCD menu and press  to proceed.
6 Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed,
select the version appropriate for your computer.
7 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run.
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Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
1 After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the
option you want.
Option
Function
Express Test
Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes
10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your
part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of
tracing the problem quickly.
Extended Test
Performs a thorough check of devices. This 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 you
want to run.
Symptom Tree
Lists the most common symptoms encountered and
allows you to select a test based on the symptom of the
problem you are having.
2 If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an 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.
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell,
technical support will ask for your Service Tag.
3 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
the problem description.
Help
Describes the test and may indicate requirements for
running the test.
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Tab
Function
Configuration
Displays your hardware configuration for the selected
device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information
for all devices from the system setup program, memory,
and various internal tests, and it 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.
4 When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and
Utilities CD, remove the CD.
5 When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the Main Menu screen. To exit
the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the Main Menu screen.
Drive Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
E N S U R E T H A T M I C R O S O F T ® W I N D O W S ® R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E — Click the Start button and
click My Computer. If the floppy, CD, or DVD 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.
TE S T T H E D R I V E —
•
Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is
defective.
•
Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.
C L E A N T H E D R I V E O R D I S K — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 141.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E CD I S S N A P P E D O N T O T H E S P I N D L E
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
C H E C K F O R H A R D W A R E I N C O M P A T I B I L I T I E S — (See "Resolving Software and Hardware
Incompatibilities" on page 99.
R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 77.
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CD and DVD drive problems
NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a
defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all
DVD drives.
Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive
C L O S E O T H E R P R O G R A M S — The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when
writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the
CD/DVD-RW.
TU R N O F F S T A N D B Y M O D E I N W I N D O W S B E F O R E W R I T I N G T O A CD/DVD-R W D I S C — See "Power
Management Modes" on page 41 for information on standby mode.
C H A N G E T H E W R I T E S P E E D T O A S L O W E R R A T E — See the help files for your CD or DVD creation
software.
If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray
1 Ensure that the computer is shut down.
2 Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive; 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.
Hard drive problems
A L L O W T H E C O M P U T E R T O C O O L B E F O R E T U R N I N G I T O N — A hot hard drive may prevent the
operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before
turning it on.
RUN CHECK DISK —
1 Click the Start button and click My Computer.
2 Right-click Local Disk C:.
3 Click Properties.
4 Click the Tools tab.
5 Under Error-checking, click Check Now.
6 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors.
7 Click Start.
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E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not operate while it is
connected to a digital telephone network.
C H E C K T H E M I C R O S O F T O U T L O O K ® E X P R E S S S E C U R I T Y S E T T I N G S — If you cannot open your e-
mail attachments:
1 In Outlook Express, click Tools, click Options, and then click Security.
2 Click Do not allow attachments to remove the checkmark.
CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION
CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK
CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK
USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —
•
Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem. (The jack has either a
green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.)
•
Ensure that you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.
•
Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a
dial tone.
•
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 connect the modem directly
to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a
shorter one.
R U N T H E M O D E M H E L P E R D I A G N O S T I C S — Click the Start button, point to All Programs and then
click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem
problems. (Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E M O D E M I S C O M M U N I C A T I N G W I T H W I N D O W S —
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Printers and Other Hardware.
3 Click Phone and Modem Options.
4 Click the Modems tab.
5 Click the COM port for your modem.
6 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the
modem is communicating with Windows.
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
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E N S U R E T H A T Y O U A R E C O N N E C T E D T O T H E I N T E R N E T — Ensure that you have subscribed to an
Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a
checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help,
contact your Internet service provider.
S C A N T H E C O M P U T E R F O R S P Y W A R E — If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you
frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet,
your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes antispyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove
spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.
Error Messages
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that
was running when the message appeared.
A U X I L I A R Y D E V I C E F A I L U R E — The touch pad, track stick, or external mouse may be faulty. For an
external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system
setup program. If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
B A D C O M M A N D O R F I L E N A M E — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces
in the proper place, and used the correct pathname.
C A C H E D I S A B L E D D U E T O F A I L U R E — The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed.
Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
CD D R I V E C O N T R O L L E R F A I L U R E — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the
computer. See "Drive Problems" on page 80.
D A T A E R R O R — The hard drive cannot read the data. See "Drive Problems" on page 80.
D E C R E A S I N G A V A I L A B L E M E M O R Y — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly
seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Memory" on
page 112.
D I S K C: F A I L E D I N I T I A L I Z A T I O N — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in
the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 77.
D R I V E N O T R E A D Y — The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it can continue.
Install a hard drive in the hard drive bay. See "Hard Drive" on page 108.
E R R O R R E A D I N G PCMCIA C A R D — The computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert the
card or try another card. See "Using ExpressCards" on page 67.
E X T E N D E D M E M O R Y S I Z E H A S C H A N G E D — 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. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
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T H E F I L E B E I N G C O P I E D I S T O O L A R G E F O R T H E D E S T I N A T I O N D R I V E — The file that you are trying to
copy is too large to fit on the disk, or the disk is too full. Try copying the file to a different disk or
use a larger capacity disk.
A F I L E N A M E C A N N O T C O N T A I N A N Y O F T H E F O L L O W I N G C H A R A C T E R S : \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use
these characters in filenames.
G A T E A2 0 F A I L U R E — A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if
necessary, replace them. See "Memory" on page 112.
G E N E R A L F A I L U R E — 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.
H A R D - D I S K D R I V E C O N F I G U R A T I O N E R R O R — The computer cannot identify the drive type. Shut
down the computer, remove the hard drive (see page 108), and boot the computer from a CD.
Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the HardDisk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
H A R D - D I S K D R I V E C O N T R O L L E R F A I L U R E 0 — The hard drive does not respond to commands from
the computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see page 108), and boot the
computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the
computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell
Diagnostics (see page 77).
H A R D - D I S K D R I V E F A I L U R E — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer.
Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see page 108), and boot the computer from a
CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the
problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see
page 77).
H A R D - D I S K D R I V E R E A D F A I L U R E — The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer,
remove the hard drive (see page 108), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the
computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another
drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
I N S E R T B O O T A B L E M E D I A — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable CD. Insert
a bootable CD.
I N V A L I D C O N F I G U R A T I O N I N F O R M A T I O N - P L E A S E R U N S YS T E M S E T U P P R O G R A M — 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" on page 137).
K E Y B O A R D C L O C K L I N E F A I L U R E — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the
Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
K E Y B O A R D C O N T R O L L E R F A I L U R E — 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 in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
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K E Y B O A R D D A T A L I N E F A I L U R E — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the
Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostic (see page 77)s.
K E Y B O A R D S T U C K K E Y F A I L U R E — For external keyboards or keypads, check the cable connection.
Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the
Stuck Key test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
L I C E N S E D C O N T E N T I S N O T A C C E S S I B L E I N M E D I A D I R E C T — Dell MediaDirect cannot verify the
Digital Rights Management (DRM) restrictions on the file, so the file cannot be played. See
"Dell MediaDirect problems" on page 89.
M E M O R Y A D D R E S S L I N E F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory module
may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them (see page 112).
M E M O R Y A L L O C A T I O N E R R O R — The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the
operating system, another program, or a utility. Shut down the computer, wait 30 seconds, and
then restart it. Try to run the program again. If the error message still appears, see the software
documentation.
M E M O R Y D A T A L I N E F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory module
may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them (see page 112).
M E M O R Y D O U B L E W O R D L O G I C F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory
module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,
replace them (see page 112).
M E M O R Y O D D / E V E N L O G I C F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory
module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,
replace them (see page 112).
M E M O R Y W R I T E / R E A D F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory module
may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them (see page 112).
N O B O O T D E V I C E A V A I L A B L E — The computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard drive is your
boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.
N O B O O T S E C T O R O N H A R D D R I V E — The operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell. See
"Contacting Dell" on page 145.
N O T I M E R T I C K I N T E R R U P T — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the
System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
N O T E N O U G H M E M O R Y O R R E S O U R C E S . E X I T S O M E P R O G R A M S A N D T R Y A G A I N — You have too
many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use.
O P E R A T I N G S YS T E M N O T F O U N D — Reinstall the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 108). If the
problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
O P T I O N A L ROM B A D C H E C K S U M — The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell. See
"Contacting Dell" on page 145.
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A R E Q U I R E D .DLL F I L E W A S N O T F O U N D — The program that you are trying to open is missing an
essential file. Remove and then reinstall the program.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Add or Remove Programs.
3 Select the program you want to remove.
4 Click Remove or Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen.
5 See the program documentation for installation instructions.
S E C T O R N O T F O U N D — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may
have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking
utility to check the file structure on the hard drive. See the Windows Help and Support Center
for instructions. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support
Center" on page 13. If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and
then reformat the hard drive.
S E E K E R R O R — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard drive.
S H U T D O W N F A I L U R E — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
T I M E - O F - D A Y C L O C K L O S T P O W E R — 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" on page 137. If the message reappears, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on
page 145.
T I M E - O F - D A Y C L O C K S T O P P E D — 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. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
T I M E - O F - D A Y N O T S E T - P L E A S E R U N T H E S YS T E M S E T U P P R O G R A M — 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" on page 137.
T I M E R C H I P C O U N T E R 2 F A I L E D — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the
System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
U N E X P E C T E D I N T E R R U P T I N P R O T E C T E D M O D E — The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning,
or a memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller
test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE.
T H E D E V I C E I S N O T R E A D Y — Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
W A R N I N G : B A T T E R Y I S C R I T I C A L L Y L O W — The battery is running out of charge. Replace the
battery, or connect the computer to an electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate hibernate mode or
shut down the computer.
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IEEE 1394 Device Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E I EEE 13 94 D E V I C E I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S —
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Printers and Other Hardware.
If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.
I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A D E L L - P R O V I D E D IEEE 1394 D E V I C E — Contact Dell or the
IEEE 1394 device manufacturer. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A N IEEE 1394 D E V I C E N O T P R O V I D E D B Y D E L L — Contact Dell or the
IEEE 1394 device manufacturer. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E I EEE 13 94 D E V I C E I S P R O P E R L Y I N S E R T E D I N T O T H E C O N N E C T O R
Keyboard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program.
When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
External Keyboard problems
NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
C H E C K T H E K E Y B O A R D C A B L E — 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.
3 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs→ Accessories, and
then 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.
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TO V E R I F Y T H A T T H E P R O B L E M I S W I T H T H E E X T E R N A L K E Y B O A R D , C H E C K T H E I N T E G R A T E D
KEYBOARD —
1 Shut down the computer.
2 Disconnect the external keyboard.
3 Turn on the computer.
4 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs→ Accessories, and
click Notepad.
5 Type some characters on the internal 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. Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
R U N T H E K E Y B O A R D D I A G N O S T I C S T E S T S — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the
Dell Diagnostics (see page 77). If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell. See
"Contacting Dell" on page 145.
Unexpected characters
D I S A B L E T H E N U M E R I C K E Y P A D — Press  to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are
displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.
Lockups and Software Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
The computer does not start up
E N S U R E T H A T T H E AC A D A P T E R I S F I R M L Y C O N N E C T E D T O T H E C O M P U T E R A N D T O T H E E L E C T R I C A L
OUTLET
The computer stops responding
NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your
keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds
until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.
A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly
END THE PROGRAM —
1 Press  simultaneously.
2 Click the Applications tab and select the program that is no longer responding.
3 Click End Task.
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NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the
screen.
C H E C K T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk
or CD.
A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system
R U N T H E P R O G R A M C O M P A T I B I L I T Y W I Z A R D — The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a
program so it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories, and then click Program
Compatibility Wizard.
2 In the welcome screen, click Next.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen.
A solid blue screen appears
TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard
or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the
computer turns off. Then restart your computer.
Dell MediaDirect problems
C H E C K T H E D E L L M E D I A D I R E C T H E L P F I L E F O R I N F O R M A T I O N — Click the ? icon at the bottom of
the Dell MediaDirect screen to access Help.
TO P L A Y M O V I E S W I T H D E L L M E D I A D I R E C T , Y O U M U S T H A V E A DV D D R I V E A N D T H E D E L L D V D
P L A Y E R — If you purchased a DVD drive with your computer, this software should already be
installed.
V I D E O Q U A L I T Y P R O B L E M S — Turn off the Use Hardware Acceleration option. This feature takes
advantage of the special processing in some graphics cards to reduce processor requirements
when playing DVDs and certain types of video files.
C A N N O T P L A Y S O M E M E D I A F I L E S — Because Dell MediaDirect provides access to media files
outside the Windows XP environment, access to licensed content is restricted. Licensed content
is digital content that has Digital Rights Management (DRM) applied to it. The Dell
MediaDirect environment cannot verify the DRM restrictions, so the licensed files cannot be
played. Licensed music and video files have a lock icon next to them. You can access licensed
files in the Windows XP environment.
ADJUSTING THE COLOR SETTINGS FOR MOVIES THAT CONTAIN SCENES THAT ARE TOO DARK OR TOO
B R I G H T — Click EagleVision to use a video enhancement technology that detects video content
and dynamically adjusts the brightness/contrast/saturation ratios.
NOTICE: You cannot reinstall the Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive.
Contact Dell for assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
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Other software problems
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR
TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION —
•
Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.
•
Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the
software. See the software documentation for information.
•
Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
•
Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.
•
If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY
U S E A V I R U S - S C A N N I N G P R O G R A M T O C H E C K T H E H A R D D R I V E , F L O P P Y D I S K S , O R CD S
SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER THROUGH THE
Start M E N U
S C A N T H E C O M P U T E R F O R S P Y W A R E — If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you
frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the
Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that
includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer
and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword
spyware.
R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S — If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a
software problem. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 77.
Memory Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —
•
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that
resolves the problem.
•
See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install
additional memory (see "Memory" on page 112).
•
Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating
with the memory (see "Memory" on page 112).
•
Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —
•
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Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating
with the memory (see "Memory" on page 112).
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•
Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Memory" on page 112).
•
Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
Network Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K C A B L E C O N N E C T O R — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into
both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.
C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K L I G H T S O N T H E N E T W O R K C O N N E C T O R — No light indicates that no network
communication exists. Replace the network cable.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN
C H E C K Y O U R N E T W O R K S E T T I N G S — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up
your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.
ExpressCard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
C H E C K T H E E X P R E S S C A R D — Ensure that the ExpressCard is properly inserted into the connector.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E C A R D I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S — Double-click the Safely Remove
Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.
I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A D E L L - P R O V I D E D E X P R E S S C A R D — Contact Dell. See "Contacting
Dell" on page 145.
I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A N E X P R E S S C A R D N O T P R O V I D E D B Y D E L L — Contact the
ExpressCard manufacturer.
Power Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
C H E C K T H E P O W E R L I G H T — 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.
NOTE: For information on standby mode, see "Power Management Modes" on page 41.
C H A R G E T H E B A T T E R Y — 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.
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NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending
on how often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a
new battery during the life of your computer.
C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y S T A T U S L I G H T — If the battery status light flashes orange or is a steady
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. See
"Contacting Dell" on page 145.
C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y T E M P E R A T U R E — If the battery temperature is below 0°C (32°F), the
computer will not start up.
TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
another device, such as a lamp.
C H E C K T H E AC A D A P T E R — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a
light, ensure that the light is on.
C O N N E C T T H E C O M P U T E R D I R E C T L Y T O A N E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Bypass power protection devices,
power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.
E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or
other appliances.
A D J U S T T H E P O W E R P R O P E R T I E S — See "Power Management Modes" on page 41.
R E S E A T T H E M E M O R Y M O D U L E S — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains
blank, reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 112).
Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer
Your computer is designed to use the 90-W AC adapter; for optimum system performance, you
should always use this adapter.
The 65-W AC adapters used in other Dell™ portable computers can be used with your computer,
but they will decrease system performance. Using less-powerful AC adapters, including the 65-W
AC adapter, will cause you to receive a WARNING message.
Printer Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s manufacturer.
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ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON
CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —
•
See the printer documentation for cable connection information.
•
Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer.
TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
another device, such as a lamp.
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S —
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click View installed printers or fax printers.
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.
3 Click Properties and click the Ports tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that the Print to the
following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). For a USB printer, ensure that the Print to
the following port(s): setting is USB.
R E I N S T A L L T H E P R I N T E R D R I V E R — See the printer documentation for instructions
Scanner Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer.
C H E C K T H E P R I N T E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N — See the printer documentation for setup and
troubleshooting information.
C H E C K T H E S C A N N E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N — See the scanner documentation for setup and
troubleshooting information.
U N L O C K T H E S C A N N E R — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —
•
See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.
•
Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E S C A N N E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y M I C R O S O F T W I N D O W S —
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click Scanners and Cameras.
If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.
R E I N S T A L L T H E S C A N N E R D R I V E R — See the scanner documentation for instructions.
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Sound and Speaker Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
No sound from integrated speakers
A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — 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.
A D J U S T T H E V O L U M E U S I N G K E Y B O A R D S H O R T C U T S — Press  to disable (mute) or
reenable the integrated speakers.
R E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D ( A U D I O ) D R I V E R — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 97.
No sound from external speakers
E N S U R E T H A T T H E S U B W O O F E R A N D T H E S P E A K E R S A R E T U R N E D O N — See the setup diagram
supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble
to eliminate distortion.
A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — Click or 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.
D I S C O N N E C T H E A D P H O N E S F R O M T H E H E A D P H O N E C O N N E C T O R — Sound from the speakers is
automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone
connector.
TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
another device, such as a lamp.
E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to
check for interference.
R E I N S T A L L T H E A U D I O D R I V E R — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 97.
R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S (see page 77)
NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been
listening to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.
No sound from headphones
C H E C K T H E H E A D P H O N E C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely
inserted into the headphone connector (see "audio connectors" on page 20).
A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — Click or 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.
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Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click Mouse.
3 Try adjusting the settings.
C H E C K T H E M O U S E C A B L E — 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 V E R I F Y T H A T T H E P R O B L E M I S W I T H T H E M O U S E , C H E C K T H E T O U C H P A D —
1 Shut down the computer.
2 Disconnect the mouse.
3 Turn on the computer.
4 At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and
open it.
If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.
R E I N S T A L L T H E T O U C H P A D D R I V E R — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 97.
Video and Display Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
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.
C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y — 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.
TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with
another device, such as a lamp.
C H E C K T H E AC A D A P T E R — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light,
ensure that the light is on.
C O N N E C T T H E C O M P U T E R D I R E C T L Y T O A N E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Bypass power protection devices,
power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.
A D J U S T T H E P O W E R P R O P E R T I E S — Search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and
Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see page 13.
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S W I T C H T H E V I D E O I M A G E — 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
A D J U S T T H E B R I G H T N E S S — Press  and the up- or down-arrow key
M O V E T H E E X T E R N A L S U B W O O F E R A W A Y F R O M T H E C O M P U T E R O R M O N I T O R — 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.
E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or
other appliances.
R O T A T E T H E C O M P U T E R T O F A C E A D I F F E R E N T D I R E C T I O N — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can
cause poor picture quality.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —
1 Click the Start button and then click Control Panel.
2 Click Appearance and Themes.
3 Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.
4 Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.
S E E "E R R O R M E S S A G E S " — If an error message appears, see page 83.
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.
If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact
Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
Drivers
What Is a Driver?
A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices
require a driver program.
A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device.
Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes.
Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation
or configuration is needed.
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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.
Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft® Windows® operating
system. You may need to install drivers if you:
•
Upgrade your operating system.
•
Reinstall your operating system.
•
Connect or install a new device.
Identifying Drivers
If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your
problem and, if necessary, update the driver.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.
5 Click Device Manager.
6 Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on
the device icon.
If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or
install a new driver. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 97.
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and Utilities CD provide
approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer
might not work correctly.
Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback
If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP
Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.
5 Click Device Manager.
6 Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties.
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7 Click the Drivers tab.
8 Click Roll Back Driver.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your
computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.
Using the Drivers and Utilities CD
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with your computer.
If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore does not resolve the problem, then reinstall
the driver from the 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 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.
5 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 drop-down menus.
A link or links appear(s) for the specific drivers and utilities used by your computer.
6 Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or utility
that you want to install.
7 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 then 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.
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Manually Reinstalling Drivers
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. See "Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 97.
1 After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous section, 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 Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click Next.
8 Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files.
9 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.
10 Click Finish and restart your computer.
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly
configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Type hardware troubleshooter in the Search field and click the arrow to start the
search.
3 Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.
4 In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my
computer, and click Next.
Restoring Your Operating System
You can restore your operating system in the following ways:
•
Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state
without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your
operating system and preserving data files.
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•
Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when
you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive
and removes any applications installed after you received the computer. Use PC Restore only
if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
•
If you received an Operating System CD with your computer, you can use it to restore your
operating system. However, using the Operating System CD also deletes all data on the hard
drive. Use the CD only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore
The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return
your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the
hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating
state. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To
access help, see page page 13.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or
recover them.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not
apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.
Creating a Restore Point
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Click the task for System Restore.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 97) to
resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files
and exit any 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 Programs→ Accessories→ 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 boldface type.
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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 prefer.
5 Click Next.
The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and
then the computer restarts.
6 After the computer restarts, click OK.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or
you can undo the restoration.
Undoing the Last System Restore
NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any 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 Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools, and then click
System Restore.
2 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
Enabling System Restore
If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System
Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 Click the System Restore tab.
5 Ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.
Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec
NOTICE: Using Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any
applications or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before
using PC Restore. Use PC Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
NOTE: Dell PC Restore by Symantec may not be available in certain countries nor on certain computers.
Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system.
PC Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the
computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer—including data
files—are permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets,
e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data before using
PC Restore.
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To use PC Restore:
1 Turn on the computer.
During the boot process, a blue bar with www.dell.com appears at the top of the screen.
2 Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press .
If you do not press  in time, let the computer finish starting, and then restart
the computer again.
NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the following step.
3 On the next screen that appears, click Restore.
4 On the next screen, click Confirm.
The restore process takes approximately 6–10 minutes to complete.
5 When prompted, click Finish to reboot the computer.
NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely
reboot.
6 When prompted, click Yes.
The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the
screens that appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that
appeared the first time the computer was turned on.
7 Click Next.
The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts.
8 After the computer restarts, click OK.
Removing Dell PC Restore
NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from
your computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your
computer’s operating system.
Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you
purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your
computer, even to gain additional hard-drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard
drive, you cannot ever recall it, and you will never be able to use PC Restore to return your
computer’s operating system to its original state.
To remove PC Restore:
1 Log on to the computer as a local administrator.
2 In Windows Explorer, go to c:\dell\utilities\DSR.
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3 Double-click the filename DSRIRRemv2.exe.
NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator, a message appears stating that you must log on
as administrator. Click Quit, and then log on as a local administrator.
NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer’s hard drive, a message
appears stating that the partition was not found. Click Quit; there is no partition to delete.
4 Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.
5 Click Yes when a confirmation message appears.
The PC Restore partition is deleted and the newly available disk space is added to the free
space allocation on the hard drive.
6 Right-click Local Disk (C) in Windows Explorer, click Properties, and verify that the
additional disk space is available as indicated by the increased value for Free Space.
7 Click Finish to close the PC Restore Removal window.
8 Restart the computer.
Using the Operating System CD
Before You Begin
If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a
newly installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback (see page 97). If
Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your
operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver. See
"Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 100.
To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:
•
Dell™ Operating System CD
•
Dell Drivers and Utilities CD
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer.
Use the Drivers and Utilities CD to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from where you
ordered your computer, or whether you requested the CDs, the ResourceCD and Operating System CD
may not ship with your system.
Reinstalling Windows XP
To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which
they are listed.
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating
system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can
overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall
Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.
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NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your
computer before you reinstall Windows XP. See the documentation that came with the software for
instructions.
1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2 Insert the Operating System CD. Click Exit if the Install Windows XP message appears.
3 Restart the computer.
4 Press  immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut
down the computer and try again.
5 Press the arrow keys to select CD-ROM, and press .
6 When the Press any key to boot from CD message appears, press any key.
7 When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press .
8 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the reinstallation.
9 When the operating system reinstallation completes, reinstall drivers and applications as
necessary.
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12
Adding and Replacing Parts
Before You Begin
This chapter 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 "Turning Off Your Computer" (see this page) and "Before
Working Inside Your Computer" (see page 106).
•
You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide.
•
A component can be replaced—or if purchased separately—installed by performing the
removal procedure in reverse order.
Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
•
Small flat-blade screwdriver
•
Phillips screwdriver
•
Small plastic scribe
•
Flash BIOS update (see the Dell Support website at support.dell.com)
Turning Off Your Computer
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn
off your computer.
1 Shut down the operating system:
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then
click Turn Off Computer.
In the Turn off computer window, click Turn off.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.
2 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 operating system,
press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.
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Before Working Inside Your Computer
Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to
help ensure your own personal safety.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
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 processor
by its edges, not by its pins.
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.
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 Turn off your computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 105.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it
from the network wall jack.
3 Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you service the
computer.
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4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
5 Remove the battery.
Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then pull the
battery out of the battery bay.
battery
battery-bay latch release
6 Remove the optical drive, if installed, from the optical drive bay. See "Optical Drives" on
page 111.
7 Press the power button to ground the system board.
8 Remove any installed ExpressCards from the ExpressCard slot. See "Removing an
ExpressCard or Blank" on page 68.
9 Remove any installed media memory cards from the 5-in-1 media memory card reader. See
"Removing a Media Memory Card or Blank" on page 72.
10 Close the display and turn the computer upside down on a flat work surface.
11 Remove the hard drive. See "Hard Drive" on page 108.
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Battery
Removing a Battery
CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, 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
1 minute to complete the battery replacement before the computer shuts down and loses any unsaved
data.
1 Ensure that the computer is turned off or suspended in a power management mode.
2 Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove
the battery from the bay by pulling it straight out from the computer.
NOTE: The 6-cell battery is flush with the back of the computer. The 9-cell battery extends beyond the
back of the computer.
Installing a Battery
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 battery is designed to work with your
Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.
Slide the battery into the bay until the latch release clicks.
Hard 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 you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see page 105) 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.
NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other
than Dell.
NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to install an operating
system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive.
To replace the hard drive in the hard drive bay:
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Turn the computer over, and loosen the two captive screws in the hard drive cover.
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screws (2)
NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. See
"Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide.
3 Lift the cover off the computer and set it aside.
4 Use the pull-tab to slide the hard drive toward the screw holes, and then lift the hard drive
straight up to remove it from the computer.
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pull-tab
hard drive
5 Remove the new drive from its packaging.
Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.
NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may
damage the connector.
6 Seat the new hard drive into the bay, and then slide it into the connector by sliding it away
from the screw holes until it is fully seated.
7 Replace the cover and tighten the screws.
8 Install the operating system for your computer. See "Restoring Your Operating System" on
page 99.
9 Install the drivers and utilities for your computer. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on
page 97.
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Returning a Hard Drive to Dell
Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original or comparable foam packaging. Otherwise, the
hard drive may be damaged in transit.
foam packaging
hard drive
Optical Drives
About the Device Security Screw
NOTE: You do not need to install the device security screw unless you want to prevent the module from
being easily removed.
Your Dell™ computer ships with an optical drive installed in the module bay and a device security
screw, which may not be installed in the optical drive but packaged separately. When you install a
module in the bay, you can install the device security screw to prevent the module from being easily
removed.
Removing and Installing Optical Drives
NOTICE: To prevent damage to drives, store 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 While the computer is turned on, double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the
taskbar, click the device that you want to eject, and click Stop.
2 Close your display and turn the computer upside-down.
3 Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the device security screw from the bottom of the
computer.
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4 Insert a Phillips screwdriver into the screw hole to push the drive out of the module bay.
5 Pull the drive straight out of the module bay.
6 Push the new drive straight into the module bay until it clicks.
7 Replace the security device screw.
8 Turn the computer right-side up and open the display.
9 The operating system automatically recognizes the drive. If necessary, enter your password to
unlock your computer.
Memory
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See
"Specifications" on page 131 for information on the memory supported by your computer. Install
only memory modules that are intended for your computer.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
The computer has two memory module connectors labeled "DIMM A" and "DIMM B." Connector
DIMM A (located under the keyboard) holds the basic memory module as configured from the
factory. If you did not order additional memory, connector DIMM B (located on the bottom of the
computer under the memory module cover) will be empty. Generally, if you are adding memory,
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you will install a memory module in connector DIMM B. If you are upgrading memory, you may
need to install memory in both the DIMM A and B connectors, depending on the extent of the
upgrade.
Installing a Memory Module in Connector DIMM B
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.
3 Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the memory module cover, and then
remove the memory module cover.
screws (2)
memory module cover
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NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memorymodule securing clips.
4 If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:
Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory
module connector until the module pops up.
Remove the module from the connector.
memory module
securing clips
(2 per connector)
NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the
connector labeled “DIMM A” before you install a module in the connector labeled “DIMM B.” Insert
memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error
message indicates this failure.
5 Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
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Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.
Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down
until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.
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tab in connector slot
6 Replace the memory module cover and tighten the screws.
NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close
may damage your computer.
7 Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an
electrical outlet.
8 Reinstall the hard drive. See "Hard Drive" on page 108.
9 Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system
configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click the Start button, click Help and
Support, and then click Computer Information.
Installing a Memory Module in Connector DIMM A
The memory module connector labeled "DIMM A" is located under the keyboard.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.
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3 Remove the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 123.
NOTE: Ensure that you remove the two screws in the battery bay as part of the hinge removal
procedure.
4 Remove the keyboard. See "Keyboard" on page 125.
5 Loosen the captive screws on the memory module cover, and then remove the memory
module cover.
tab in connector slot
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memorymodule securing clips.
6 If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:
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Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory
module connector until the module pops up.
Remove the module from the connector.
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memory module
securing clips
(2 per connector)
NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the
connector labeled “DIMM A” before you install a module in the connector labeled “DIMM B.” Insert
memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error
message indicates this failure.
7 Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.
Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down
until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.
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tab in connector slot
8 Replace the memory module cover and tighten the screws.
NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close
may damage your computer.
9 Replace the keyboard. See "Keyboard" on page 125.
10 Replace the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 123.
NOTE: Ensure that you replace the two screws inside the battery bay as part of the hinge
replacement procedure.
11 Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an
electrical outlet.
12 Reinstall the hard drive. See "Hard Drive" on page 108.
13 Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system
configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click the Start button, click Help and
Support, and then click Computer Information.
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Modem (Optional)
If you ordered the optional modem at the same time that you ordered your computer, the modem
is already installed.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the modem/Mini PCI/wireless cover,
and then remove the cover.
modem/Mini
PCI/wireless cover
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3 Remove the existing modem:
Remove the screw securing the modem to the system board, and set it aside.
Pull straight up on the attached pull-tab to lift the modem out of its connector on the
system board, and disconnect the modem cable.
screw
modem
modem cable
pull-tab
system board connector
4 Install the replacement modem:
Connect the modem cable to the modem.
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the
connectors and realign the card.
Align the modem with the screw holes and press the modem into the connector on the
system board.
Replace the screw that secures the modem to the system board.
5 Replace the modem/Mini PCI/wireless cover.
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Wireless Mini PCI Card
If you ordered a Mini PCI card with your computer, the card is already installed.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 If a Mini PCI card is not already installed, go to step . If you are replacing a Mini PCI card,
remove the existing card:
Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini PCI card.
antenna cables
Release the Mini PCI card by spreading the metal securing tabs until the card pops up
slightly.
Lift the Mini PCI card out of its connector.
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Mini PCI card
metal securing tabs (2)
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the
connectors and realign the card.
3 Install the replacement Mini PCI card:
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the Mini PCI card, make sure the antenna cables are not under the card
when you click the card into place.
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Align the Mini PCI card with the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the Mini PCI
card into the connector until it clicks.
Connect the antenna cables to the Mini PCI card. Make sure the cables snap onto the
tiny connectors on the Mini PCI card.
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antenna cables
Hinge Cover
Removing the Hinge Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
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NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin
working inside the computer.
NOTICE: The hinge cover is fragile and can be damaged if extreme force is used. Be careful when
removing the hinge cover.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Remove the battery (see page 108).
3 Remove the two screws inside the battery bay.
screws (2)
4 Turn the computer right-side up, and then open the display all the way (180 degrees) so that
it rests on your work surface.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the hinge cover, do not lift the cover on both sides simultaneously.
5 Insert a scribe into the indent to lift the hinge cover on the right side.
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hinge cover
indent
6 Ease the hinge cover up, moving from right to left, and remove it.
Replacing the Hinge Cover
1 Insert the left edge of the cover into place.
2 Press from left to right until the cover snaps into place.
3 Close the display and turn the computer upside down.
4 Replace the two screws in the battery bay.
5 Replace the battery (see page 108).
Keyboard
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin
working inside the computer.
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Removing the Keyboard
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Remove the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 123.
NOTICE: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace. Be
careful when removing and handling the keyboard.
3 Lift the keyboard and hold it up and slightly forward to allow access to the keyboard
connector.
4 Release the lever on the system board connector to disconnect the keyboard cable from the
system board.
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keyboard
keyboard cable
side tabs (2)
lever on system board connector
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Replacing the Keyboard
NOTICE: To avoid scratching the palm rest when replacing the keyboard, hook the six tabs along the
front edge of the keyboard into the palm rest, and then secure the keyboard in place.
1 Connect the keyboard cable to the system board.
2 Place the six tabs along the front edge of the keyboard into the palm rest.
3 Fasten the keyboard cable with the lever on the system board connector.
4 Snap the keyboard into place under the two side tabs.
Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin
working inside the computer.
If you ordered a card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer, the card is already
installed.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Loosen the captive screws in the modem/Mini PCI/wireless cover, and then remove the cover.
3 Remove the screw securing the card carrier.
4 Pull the carrier out of the compartment so that you can disconnect the card from its cable and
remove the card from the computer.
5 To replace the card, connect the card to the cable.
6 Then carefully insert the card into the carrier and insert the carrier into the compartment.
7 Replace the screw securing the card carrier into place.
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screw
card
card carrier
card connector
Coin-Cell Battery
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery
CAUTION: Before you perform the following procedures, see the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as the back panel) on the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin
working inside the computer.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Remove the hinge cover (see page 123).
3 Remove the keyboard (see page 125).
4 Use a plastic scribe to lift the battery upward to remove it from the system board.
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coin-cell battery
Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery
When you replace the battery, insert it into the circular socket with the positive side up, and then
push it into place.
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13
Appendix
Specifications
Processor
Processor type
Intel® Pentium® M or Intel Celeron® M
L1 cache
32-KB I-cache
32-KB D-cache
L2 cache
2 MB
External bus frequency (front side
bus)
400 MHz and 533 MHz
System Information
System chip set
Mobile Intel 915 GM Express
Data bus width
64 bits
DRAM bus width
dual-channel (2) 64-bit buses
Processor address bus width
32 bits
Flash EPROM
1 MB
Graphics bus
internal
PCI bus
32 bits
ExpressCard
ExpressCard controller
Intel ICH6
ExpressCard connector
one ExpressCard slot (54 mm)
Cards supported
ExpressCard/34 (34 mm) and
ExpressCard/54 (54 mm)
ExpressCard connector size
28 pins
1.5 V and 3.3 V
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5-in-1 Media Memory Card Reader
5-in-1 media memory card controller Ricoh R5C832
5-in-1 media memory card connector 5-in-1 combo card connector
Cards supported
MS
MS Pro
SSD/SDIO
MMC
xD
CD Type I/II & IBM® Microdrive through
ExpressCard adapter
5-in-1 media memory card connector 36.8 x 29.3 x 4.75 mm
size
Memory
Memory module connector
two SODIMM connectors
Memory module capacities
256 MB, 512 MB, and 1 GB
Memory type
1.8-V SODIMM DDR-2
Minimum memory
256 MB
Maximum memory
2 GB
Ports and Connectors
132
Audio
microphone connector, stereo
headphone/speaker connector
IEEE 1394a
4-pin serial connector
Mini PCI
one Type IIIA Mini PCI card slot
Modem
RJ-11 port
Network adapter
RJ-45 port
S-video TV-out
7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-video
to composite video adapter cable)
USB
four 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors
Video
15-hole connector
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Communications
Modem:
Type
v.92 56K MDC
Controller
softmodem
Interface
internal HDA bus
Network adapter
10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board
Wireless
internal Mini PCI Wi-Fi and Bluetooth®
wireless technology support
Video
Video type:
integrated on system board
Video controller
Intel® Graphics Media
Accelerator (GMA) 900
Video memory
Up to 64 MB of shared memory
LCD interface
LVDS
TV support
NTSC/PAL
Audio
Audio type
High Definition Audio (HDA) bus
Audio controller
Sigmatel STAC9200
Stereo conversion
24-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-toanalog)
Interfaces:
Internal
HDA bus
External
microphone-in connector, stereo
headphones/speakers connector
Speaker
two 4-ohm speakers
Internal speaker amplifier
1-W channel into 4 ohms
Volume controls
keyboard shortcuts, program menus, media
control buttons
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Display
Type (active-matrix TFT)
14.1-inch WXGA
Dimensions:
Height
206 mm (8.11 inches)
Width
320 mm (12.59 inches)
Diagonal
357.74 mm (14.1 inches)
Maximum resolutions:
WXGA
1280 x 800 at 16.7 million colors
Refresh rate
60 Hz
Operating angle
0° (closed) to 180°
Viewing angles:
Horizontal
±40° (WXGA) typical
Vertical
+15°/–30° (WXGA)
Pixel pitch:
WXGA
Controls
0.237 mm
brightness can be controlled through
keyboard shortcuts
Keyboard
Number of keys
87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe);
91 (Japan)
Layout
QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji
Touch Pad
X/Y position resolution
(graphics table mode)
240 cpi
Size:
134
Width
73.0-mm (2.9-inch) sensor-active area
Height
42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle
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Battery
Type
9-cell "smart" lithium ion
6-cell "smart" lithium ion
Dimensions:
Depth
60.1 mm (2.37 inches) (9 cell)
49 mm (1.93 inches) (6 cell)
Height
24 mm (0.94 inch)
Width
206.8 mm (8.14 inches)
Weight
0.48 kg (1.06 lb) (9 cell)
0.32 kg (0.7 lb) (6 cell)
Voltage
11.1 VDC
Charge time (approximate):
Computer off
Operating time
2 hours
Battery operating time varies depending on
operating conditions and can be significantly
reduced under certain power-intensive
conditions. See "Power Problems" on
page 91.
See "Using a Battery" on page 45 for more
information on battery life.
Life span (approximate)
500 discharge/charge cycles
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–40° to 60°C (–40° to 140°F)
Coin-cell battery
CR-2032
AC Adapter
Input voltage
90–264 VAC
Input current (maximum)
1.5 A
Input frequency
47–63 Hz
Output current
4.34 A (maximum at 4-second pulse);
3.34 A (continuous)
Output power
65 W
Rated output voltage
19.5 +/–1.0 VDC
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AC Adapter (continued)
Dimensions:
Height
28.2 mm (1.11 inches)
Width
57.9 mm (2.28 inches)
Depth
137.2 mm (5.4 inches)
Weight (with cables)
0.4 kg (0.9 lb)
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Physical
Height
38.6 mm (1.52 inches)
Width
330 mm (12.99 inches)
Depth
243 mm (9.56 inches)
Weight (with 6-cell battery,
CDRW/DVD combo, and 40G hard
drive):
Configurable to less than
2.5 kg (5.5 lb)
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
1.3 GRMS
Maximum shock (measured with
hard drive in head-parked position
and a 2-ms half-sine pulse):
Operating
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Environmental (continued)
Storage
163 G
Altitude (maximum):
Operating
–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)
Storage
–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)
Using the System Setup Program
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 the Windows Help and Support
Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see page 13.
The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer,
such as:
•
System configuration
•
Basic device-configuration settings
•
System security and hard-drive password settings
•
Power management settings
•
Boot (start-up) configuration and display settings
•
Docking-device settings
•
Wireless control settings
NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do
not change the system setup program settings. Certain changes might make your computer work
incorrectly.
Viewing the System Setup Screen
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.
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System Setup Screen
The system setup screen consists of three windows of information. The window on the left contains
an expandable hierarchy of control categories. If you select (highlight) a category (such as System,
Onboard Devices, or Video) and press , you can show or hide the related subcategories.
The window on the right contains information about the category or subcategory selected in the
window on the left.
The window at the bottom tells you how to control the system setup program with key functions.
Use these keys to select a category, modify its settings, or exit the system setup program.
Commonly Used Options
Certain options require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect.
Changing the Boot Sequence
The boot sequence, or boot order, tells the computer where to look to find the software needed to
start the operating system. You can control the boot sequence and enable/disable devices using the
Boot Order page of the system setup program.
NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a One-Time Boot" on
page 139.
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
•
Internal HDD
•
USB Storage Device
•
CD/DVD/CD-RW drive
•
Modular bay HDD
NOTE: Only devices that are preceded by a number are bootable.
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 down-arrow or up-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. Enabled items are
preceded by a number; disabled items are not preceded by a number.
•
To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and press either  to move the device
up the list or  to move a device down the list.
Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit the system setup
program.
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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 through the Start menu.
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 previous boot order is restored.
Computer Tracking Software
Computer tracking software may enable you to locate your computer if it is lost or stolen. The
software is either preinstalled on your computer, or you can purchase it from www.dell.com. To
use tracking software, activate the setting, if necessary, in the system setup program (BIOS). To
access the system setup program, start your computer and press  immediately when the
blue DELL™ logo appears.
Traveling With Your Computer
Identifying Your Computer
•
Attach a name tag or business card to the computer.
•
Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying
case. Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and
to Dell.
•
Create a file on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop called if_found. Place information such
as your name, address, and phone number in this file.
•
Contact your credit card company and ask if it offers coded identification tags.
Packing the Computer
•
Remove any external devices attached to the computer and store them in a safe place.
•
To make the computer as light as possible, replace any devices installed in the module bay
with the Dell TravelLite™ module.
•
Fully charge the main battery and any spare batteries that you plan to carry with you.
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•
Shut down the computer.
•
Disconnect the AC adapter.
NOTICE: When the display is closed, extraneous items on the keyboard or palm rest could damage the
display.
•
Remove any extraneous items, such as paper clips, pens, and paper, from the keyboard and
palm rest and close the display.
•
Use the optional Dell™ carrying case to pack the computer and its accessories together safely.
•
Avoid packing the computer with items such as shaving cream, colognes, perfumes, or food.
NOTICE: If the computer has been exposed to extreme temperatures, allow it to acclimate to room
temperature for 1 hour before turning it on.
•
Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as extreme
temperatures and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids.
•
Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead
storage compartment.
Travel Tips
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive to prevent loss of data.
NOTICE: Do not check the computer as baggage.
•
Consider disabling wireless activity on your computer to maximize battery operating time. To
disable wireless activity, press.
•
Consider changing your power management options to maximize battery operating time. See
"Power Management" on page 39.
•
If you are the system setup program internationally, carry proof of ownership—or of your right
to use the computer if it is company-owned—to speed your passage through customs.
Investigate the customs regulations of the countries you plan to visit, and consider acquiring
an international carnet (also known as a merchandise passport) from your government.
•
Find out what type of electrical outlets are used in the countries you will visit, and have
appropriate power adapters.
•
Check with your credit card company for information about the kinds of emergency travel
assistance it offers to users of portable computers.
Traveling by Air
NOTICE: Do not walk the computer through a metal detector. Send the computer through an X-ray
machine or have it hand-inspected.
•
140
Ensure that you have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn on the
computer.
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•
Prior to entering the airplane, verify that using a computer is permitted. Some airlines forbid
the use of electronic devices during flight. All airlines forbid the use of electronic devices
during takeoff and landing.
If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen
•
Call a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer. Include the Service Tag
in your description of the computer. Ask that a case number be assigned and write down the
number, along with the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. If
possible, obtain the name of the investigating officer.
NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area. If
you do not know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.
•
If the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of the company.
•
Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer. Provide the computer Service
Tag, the case number, and the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement
agency to which you reported the missing computer. If possible, give the name of the
investigating officer.
The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the computer Service Tag and
record the computer as missing or stolen. If someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives
your Service Tag, the computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen. The representative
will attempt to get the phone number and address of the caller. Dell will then contact the law
enforcement agency to which you reported of the missing computer.
Cleaning Your Computer
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
Computer, Keyboard, and Display
CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and
remove any installed batteries. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use
liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.
•
Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from between the keys on the keyboard and to
remove any dirt or lint from the 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 displays, and follow the instructions that are
included with the product.
•
Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with either water or a display cleaner. Do not use alcohol or an
ammonia-based cleaner. Wipe the display gently working from the center to the edges until it
is clean and any fingerprints are removed. Do not use excessive pressure.
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•
Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water and wipe the computer and keyboard. Do not allow
water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.
Touch Pad
1 Shut down and turn off your computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 105.
2 Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets.
3 Remove any installed batteries. See "Battery" on page 108.
4 Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe 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
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign the heads
which prevents the drive from operating.
Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain
pretreated floppies to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation.
CDs and DVDs
NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions
that come with the compressed-air product. 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, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a
straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disc.
For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also
purchase commercial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust,
fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are also safe to use on DVDs.
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.
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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 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.
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FCC Identification Information
The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in
compliance with FCC regulations:
•
Model number: PP19L
•
Company name:
Dell Inc.
One Dell Way
Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA
512-338-4400
Macrovision Product Notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and
other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized
by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise
authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)
Technician-assisted technical support requires the cooperation and participation of the customer
in the troubleshooting process and provides for restoration of the operating system, software
programs, and hardware drivers to the original default configuration as shipped from Dell, as well as
the verification of appropriate functionality of the computer and all Dell-installed hardware. In
addition to this technician-assisted technical support, online technical support is available at
support.dell.com. Additional technical support options may be available for purchase.
Dell provides limited technical support for the computer and any "Dell-installed" software and
peripherals1. Support for third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original
manufacturer, including those purchased and/or installed through Dell Software and Peripherals,
Readyware, and Custom Factory Integration2.
Repair services are provided pursuant to the terms and conditions of your limited warranty and any optional
support service contract purchased with the computer.
All Dell-standard components included in a Custom Factory Integration (CFI) project are covered by the standard Dell limited warranty for your computer. However, Dell also extends a parts replacement program to
cover all nonstandard, third-party hardware components integrated through CFI for the duration of the computer’s service contract.
Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals
Dell-installed software includes the operating system and some of the software programs that are
installed on the computer during the manufacturing process (Microsoft® Office, Norton Antivirus,
and so on).
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Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dell-branded module bay or
ExpressCard accessories. In addition, any Dell-branded monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers,
microphones for telephonic modems, docking stations/port replicators, networking products, and
all associated cabling are included.
Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals
Third-party software and peripherals include any peripheral, accessory, or software program sold by
Dell not under the Dell brand (printers, scanners, cameras, games, and so on). Support for all thirdparty software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer of the product.
Contacting Dell
To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:
•
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.
NOTE: In certain countries, technical support specific to Dell XPS portable computers is available at a
separate telephone number listed for participating countries. If you do not see a telephone number listed that is
specific for XPS portable computers, you may contact Dell through the technical support number listed and
your call will be routed appropriately.
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
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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Argentina (Buenos Aires)
Website: www.dell.com.ar
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: us_latin_services@dell.com
Country Code: 54
E-mail for desktop and portable computers:
la-techsupport@dell.com
City Code: 11
E-mail for servers and EMC® storage products:
la_enterprise@dell.com
Customer Care
toll-free: 0-800-444-0730
Tech Support
toll-free: 0-800-444-0733
Tech Support Services
toll-free: 0-800-444-0724
Sales
Aruba
General Support
Australia (Sydney)
E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com
International Access Code: 0011 E-mail Customer Care (Australia and
New Zealand): apcustserv@dell.com
Country Code: 61
City Code: 2
Appendix
0-810-444-3355
toll-free: 800-1578
Home and Small Business
1-300-655-533
Government and Business
toll-free: 1-800-633-559
Preferred Accounts Division (PAD)
toll-free: 1-800-060-889
Customer Care (after sales)
146
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
toll-free 1-333-55(option 3)
Technical Support (portables and desktops)
toll-free: 1-300-655-533
Technical Support (servers and workstations)
toll-free: 1-800-733-314
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 1-800-808-385
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 1-800-808-312
Fax
toll-free: 1-800-818-341
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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
Austria (Vienna)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 900
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com
Country Code: 43
Home/Small Business Sales
0820 240 530 00
City Code: 1
Home/Small Business Fax
0820 240 530 49
Home/Small Business Customer Care
0820 240 530 14
Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care
0820 240 530 16
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
0820 240 530 81
Home/Small Business Technical Support for all
other Dell computers
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
E-mail for French-speaking Customers:
support.euro.dell.com/be/fr/emaildell/
Country Code: 32
City Code: 2
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
02 481 92 96
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
02 481 92 88
Technical Support Fax
02 481 92 95
Customer Care
02 713 15 65
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
Country Code: 55
Technical Support Fax
51 481 5470
City Code: 51
Customer Care Fax
51 481 5480
Sales
British Virgin Islands
General Support
0800 90 3355
0800 90 3390
toll-free: 1-866-278-6820
Appendix
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book.book Page 148 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
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
Brunei
Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4966
Country Code: 673
Customer Care (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4888
Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4955
Canada (North York, Ontario)
Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus
International Access Code: 011
AutoTech (automated technical support)
toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
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
Technical Support (printers, projectors, televisions,
handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)
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
Cayman Islands
General Support
Chile (Santiago)
Sales, Customer Support, and Technical Support
Country Code: 56
City Code: 2
148
Appendix
1-877-335-5767
1 866 440 3355
1-800-805-7541
toll-free: 1230-020-4823
book.book Page 149 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
China (Xiamen)
Technical Support website: support.dell.com.cn
Country Code: 86
Technical Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.com
City Code: 592
Customer Care E-mail: customer_cn@dell.com
Technical Support Fax
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
592 818 1350
Technical Support (Dell™ Dimension™ and
Inspiron)
toll-free: 800 858 2969
Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and
Dell Precision™)
toll-free: 800 858 0950
Technical Support (servers and storage)
toll-free: 800 858 0960
Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, switches,
routers, and so on)
toll-free: 800 858 2920
Technical Support (printers)
toll-free: 800 858 2311
Customer Care
toll-free: 800 858 2060
Customer Care Fax
592 818 1308
Home and Small Business
toll-free: 800 858 2222
Preferred Accounts Division
toll-free: 800 858 2557
Large Corporate Accounts GCP
toll-free: 800 858 2055
Large Corporate Accounts Key Accounts
toll-free: 800 858 2628
Large Corporate Accounts North
toll-free: 800 858 2999
Large Corporate Accounts North Government and
Education
toll-free: 800 858 2955
Large Corporate Accounts East
toll-free: 800 858 2020
Large Corporate Accounts East Government and
Education
toll-free: 800 858 2669
Large Corporate Accounts Queue Team
toll-free: 800 858 2572
Large Corporate Accounts South
toll-free: 800 858 2355
Large Corporate Accounts West
toll-free: 800 858 2811
Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts
toll-free: 800 858 2621
Colombia
General Support
980-9-15-3978
Costa Rica
General Support
0800-012-0435
Appendix
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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
Czech Republic (Prague)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com
Country Code: 420
Technical Support
22537 2727
Customer Care
22537 2707
Fax
22537 2714
Tech Fax
22537 2728
Switchboard
22537 2711
Denmark (Copenhagen)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/dk/da/emaildell/
Country Code: 45
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
7010 0074
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
7023 0182
Customer Care (Relational)
7023 0184
Home/Small Business Customer Care
3287 5505
Switchboard (Relational)
3287 1200
Switchboard Fax (Relational)
3287 1201
Switchboard (Home/Small Business)
3287 5000
Switchboard Fax (Home/Small Business)
3287 5001
Dominica
General Support
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
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fi/fi/emaildell/
Country Code: 358
Technical Support
09 253 313 60
City Code: 9
Customer Care
09 253 313 38
Fax
09 253 313 99
Switchboard
09 253 313 00
150
Appendix
toll-free: 1-866-278-6821
book.book Page 151 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
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
France (Paris) (Montpellier)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/
Country Code: 33
Home and Small Business
City Codes: (1) (4)
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
0825 387 129
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
0825 387 270
Customer Care
0825 823 833
Switchboard
Switchboard (calls from outside of France)
0825 004 700
04 99 75 40 00
Sales
0825 004 700
Fax
0825 004 701
Fax (calls from outside of France)
04 99 75 40 01
Corporate
Technical Support
0825 004 719
Customer Care
0825 338 339
Switchboard
01 55 94 71 00
Sales
01 55 94 71 00
Fax
01 55 94 71 01
Germany (Langen)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com
Country Code: 49
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
06103 766-7222
City Code: 6103
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
06103 766-7200
Home/Small Business Customer Care
0180-5-224400
Global Segment Customer Care
06103 766-9570
Preferred Accounts Customer Care
06103 766-9420
Large Accounts Customer Care
06103 766-9560
Public Accounts Customer Care
06103 766-9555
Switchboard
06103 766-7000
Appendix
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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
Greece
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/gr/en/emaildell/
Country Code: 30
Technical Support
00800-44 14 95 18
Gold Service Technical Support
00800-44 14 00 83
Switchboard
2108129810
Gold Service Switchboard
2108129811
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
Technical Support E-mail: apsupport@dell.com
Country Code: 852
Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)
2969 3188
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)
2969 3191
Technical Support (PowerApp™, PowerEdge™,
PowerConnect™, and PowerVault™)
2969 3196
Customer Care
3416 0910
Large Corporate Accounts
3416 0907
Global Customer Programs
3416 0908
Medium Business Division
3416 0912
Home and Small Business Division
2969 3105
India
E-mail: india_support_desktop@dell.com
india_support_notebook@dell.com
india_support_Server@dell.com
Technical Support
1600338045
and 1600448046
152
Appendix
Sales (Large Corporate Accounts)
1600 33 8044
Sales (Home and Small Business)
1600 33 8046
book.book Page 153 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
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
Ireland (Cherrywood)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 16
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
Country Code: 353
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
1850 200 722
City Code: 1
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
1850 543 543
U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only)
0870 908 0800
Home User Customer Care
01 204 4014
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)
01 204 4444
0870 907 4000
Fax/Sales Fax
01 204 0103
Switchboard
01 204 4444
Italy (Milan)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/it/it/emaildell/
Country Code: 39
Home and Small Business
City Code: 02
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)
02 577 821
1-800-682-3639
Appendix
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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Japan (Kawasaki)
Website: support.jp.dell.com
International Access Code: 001
Technical Support (servers)
Country Code: 81
Technical Support outside of Japan (servers)
City Code: 44
Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and
Inspiron)
Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision,
OptiPlex, and Latitude)
Technical Support (PDAs, projectors, printers,
routers)
Technical Support outside of Japan (PDAs,
projectors, printers, routers)
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
toll-free: 0120-198-498
81-44-556-4162
toll-free: 0120-198-226
81-44-520-1435
toll-free:0120-198-433
81-44-556-3894
toll-free: 0120-981-690
81-44-556-3468
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
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
Korea (Seoul)
E-mail: krsupport@dell.com
International Access Code: 001
Technical Support
toll-free: 080-200-3800
Country Code: 82
Technical Support (Dimension, PDA, Electronics
and Accessories)
toll-free: 080-200-3801
Sales
toll-free: 080-200-3600
City Code: 2
154
Appendix
Fax
2194-6202
Switchboard
2194-6000
book.book Page 155 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Latin America
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
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
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
Technical Support
Country Code: 352
Home/Small Business Sales
342 08 08 075
+32 (0)2 713 15 96
Corporate Sales
26 25 77 81
Customer Care
+32 (0)2 481 91 19
Fax
26 25 77 82
Macao
Technical Support
Country Code: 853
Customer Service (Xiamen, China)
34 160 910
Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China)
29 693 115
toll-free: 0800 105
Malaysia (Penang)
Website: support.ap.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)
toll-free: 1 800 880 193
Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)
toll-free: 1 800 881 306
Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)
toll-free: 1800 881 386
Customer Care
toll-free: 1800 881 306
(option 6)
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 1 800 888 202
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 1 800 888 213
Country Code: 60
City Code: 4
Appendix
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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Mexico
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Customer Technical Support
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 52
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383
Sales
50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355
Customer Service
001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383
Main
50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355
Montserrat
General Support
toll-free: 1-866-278-6822
Netherlands Antilles
General Support
001-800-882-1519
Netherlands (Amsterdam)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
020 674 45 94
Country Code: 31
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
020 674 45 00
City Code: 20
Technical Support Fax
020 674 47 66
Home/Small Business Customer Care
020 674 42 00
Relational Customer Care
020 674 4325
Home/Small Business Sales
020 674 55 00
Relational Sales
020 674 50 00
Home/Small Business Sales Fax
020 674 47 75
Relational Sales Fax
020 674 47 50
Switchboard
020 674 50 00
Switchboard Fax
020 674 47 50
156
Appendix
book.book Page 157 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
New Zealand
E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail Customer Care (Australia and
New Zealand): apcustserv@dell.com
Country Code: 64
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Customer Care
toll-free: 0800-289-335
(option 3)
Technical Support (for desktop and portable
computers)
toll-free: 0800 446 255
Technical Support (for servers and workstations)
toll-free: 0800 443 563
Home and Small Business
0800 446 255
Government and Business
0800 444 617
Sales
0800 441 567
Fax
0800 441 566
Nicaragua
General Support
Norway (Lysaker)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/no/no/emaildell/
Country Code: 47
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
815 35 043
Technical Support for all other Dell products
671 16882
Relational Customer Care
671 17575
001-800-220-1006
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
E-mail: pl_support_tech@dell.com
Country Code: 48
Customer Service Phone
57 95 700
City Code: 22
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
Appendix
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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Portugal
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/pt/en/emaildell/
Country Code: 351
Technical Support
Customer Care
Sales
Fax
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
707200149
800 300 413
800 300 410 or 800 300 411 or
800 300 412 or 21 422 07 10
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 (Singapore)
Website: support.ap.dell.com
International Access Code: 005
Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)
toll-free: 1800 394 7430
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)
toll-free: 1800 394 7488
Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)
toll-free: 1800 394 7478
Country Code: 65
Customer Care
toll-free: 1 800 394 7430
(option 6)
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 1 800 394 7412
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 1 800 394 7419
Slovakia (Prague)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com
Country Code: 421
Technical Support
Customer Care
158
Appendix
02 5441 5727
420 22537 2707
Fax
02 5441 8328
Tech Fax
02 5441 8328
Switchboard (Sales)
02 5441 7585
book.book Page 159 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
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
South Africa (Johannesburg)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code:
E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com
09/091
Gold Queue
011 709 7713
Country Code: 27
Technical Support
011 709 7710
City Code: 11
Customer Care
011 709 7707
Sales
011 709 7700
Fax
011 706 0495
Switchboard
011 709 7700
Southeast Asian and Pacific
Countries
Customer Technical Support, Customer Service,
and Sales (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4810
Spain (Madrid)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/es/es/emaildell/
Country Code: 34
Home and Small Business
City Code: 91
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
902 115 236
Switchboard
91 722 92 00
Fax
91 722 95 83
Appendix
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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Sweden (Upplands Vasby)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/se/sv/emaildell/
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Country Code: 46
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
0771 340 340
City Code: 8
Technical Support for all other Dell products
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
08 590 05 594
Sales
08 590 05 185
Switzerland (Geneva)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
International Access Code: 00
E-mail: Tech_support_central_Europe@dell.com
Country Code: 41
E-mail for French-speaking HSB and Corporate
Customers: support.euro.dell.com/ch/fr/emaildell/
City Code: 22
20 140 14 44
Technical Support Fax
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
0848 33 88 57
Technical Support (Home and Small Business) for
all other Dell products
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
Taiwan
Website: support.ap.dell.com
International Access Code: 002
E-mail: ap_support@dell.com
Country Code: 886
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, Inspiron,
Dimension, and Electronics and Accessories)
toll-free: 00801 86 1011
Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)
toll-free: 00801 60 1256
Customer Care
toll-free: 00801 60 1250
(option 5)
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 00801 65 1228
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 00801 651 227
160
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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
Thailand
Website: support.ap.dell.com
International Access Code: 001
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)
toll-free: 1800 0060 07
Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)
toll-free: 1800 0600 09
Customer Care
toll-free: 1800 006 007
(option 7)
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 1800 006 009
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 1800 006 006
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: 66
Country Code: 44
City Code: 1344
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred
Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees])
0870 908 0500
Technical Support for XPS portable computers only
0870 366 4180
Technical Support (direct and general) for all other
products
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
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
Home and Small Business Fax
Uruguay
General Support
0870 907 4006
toll-free: 000-413-598-2521
Appendix
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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
U.S.A. (Austin, Texas)
Automated Order-Status Service
toll-free: 1-800-433-9014
International Access Code: 011
AutoTech (portable and desktop computers)
toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
Country Code: 1
Technical Support (Dell TV, Printers, and
Projectors) for Relationship customers
toll-free 1-877-459-7298
Consumer (Home and Home Office) Technical
Support for all other Dell products
toll-free: 1-800-624-9896
Customer Service
toll-free: 1-800-624-9897
DellNet™ Service and Support
toll-free: 1-877-Dellnet
(1-877-335-5638)
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers
toll-free: 1-800-695-8133
Financial Services website:
www.dellfinancialservices.com
Financial Services (lease/loans)
toll-free: 1-877-577-3355
Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA])
toll-free: 1-800-283-2210
Business
Customer Service and Technical Support
toll-free: 1-800-456-3355
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers
toll-free: 1-800-695-8133
Printers and 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: 1-800-695-8133
Dell Sales
toll-free: 1-800-289-3355
or toll-free: 1-800-879-3355
Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers)
toll-free: 1-888-798-7561
Software and Peripherals Sales
toll-free: 1-800-671-3355
Spare Parts Sales
toll-free: 1-800-357-3355
Extended Service and Warranty Sales
toll-free: 1-800-247-4618
Fax
toll-free: 1-800-727-8320
Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or
Speech-Impaired
toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY
(1-877-335-5889)
U.S. Virgin Islands
General Support
1-877-673-3355
Venezuela
General Support
8001-3605
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Appendix
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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 videorelated tasks. AGP delivers a smooth, true-color video
image because of the faster interface between the video
circuitry and the computer memory.
battery — A rechargeable 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 these settings have on the
computer, do not change them. Also referred to as the
system setup program.
bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your
computer.
Bluetooth® wireless technology — A wireless technology
standard for short-range (9 m [29 feet]) networking
devices that allows for enabled devices to automatically
recognize each other.
antivirus software — A program designed to identify,
quarantine, and/or delete viruses from your computer.
boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from
which the computer attempts to boot.
APR — advanced port replicator — A docking device that
allows you to conveniently use an external monitor,
keyboard, mouse, and other devices with your portable
computer.
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 ResourceCD is a bootable CD.
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.
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.
backup — A copy of a program or data file on a floppy,
CD, DVD, or hard drive. As a precaution, back up the
data files from your hard drive regularly.
BTU — British thermal unit — A measurement of heat
output.
Glossary
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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 scale
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 processor operations.
L1 cache — Primary cache stored inside the processor.
L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external
to the processor or incorporated into the processor
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-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. 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 processor and memory or between the
processor 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.
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.
DDR SDRAM — double-data-rate SDRAM — A type of
SDRAM that doubles the data burst cycle, improving
system performance.
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.
DDR2 SDRAM — double-data-rate 2 SDRAM — A type
of DDR SDRAM that uses a 4-bit prefetch and other
architectural changes to boost memory speed to over
400 MHz.
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).
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.
164
Glossary
device — Hardware such as a disk drive, printer, or
keyboard that is installed in or connected to your
computer.
device driver — See driver.
DIMM — Dual Inline Memory Module.
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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 processor.
docking device — See APR.
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-R — DVD recordable — A recordable version of a
DVD. Data can be recorded only once onto a DVD-R.
Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.
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.
DMTF — Distributed Management Task Force — A
consortium of hardware and software companies who
develop management standards for distributed desktop,
network, enterprise, and Internet environments.
DVI — digital video interface — A standard for digital
transmission between a computer and a digital video
display.
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 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.
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.
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.
ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency
requirements that decrease the overall consumption of
electricity.
DVD — digital versatile disc — A high-capacity disc
usually used to store movies. DVD drives read most CD
media as well.
EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector
design that provides bidirectional data transmission.
DVD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read
data from DVDs and CDs.
ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of
static electricity. ESD can damage integrated circuits
found in computer and communications equipment.
Glossary
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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.
ExpressCard — A removable I/O card adhering to the
PCMCIA standard. Modems and network adapters are
common types of ExpressCards. ExpressCards support
both the PCI Express and USB 2.0 standard.
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.
extended PC Card — A PC Card that extends beyond the
edge of the PC Card slot when installed.
Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale
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 communications-related
regulations that state how much radiation computers and
other electronic equipment can emit.
floppy — An electromagnetic form of storage media. Also
known as a floppy diskette or a floppy disk.
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.
166
Glossary
FSB — front side bus — The data path and physical
interface between the processor 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.
GHz — gigahertz — A measurement of frequency that
equals one thousand million Hz, or one thousand MHz.
The speeds for computer processors, 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 processors 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 standalone 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
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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.
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 processor to
communicate with that device.
IrDA — Infrared Data Association — The organization
that creates international standards for infrared
communications.
IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway
assigned to a specific device so that the device can
communicate with the processor. 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.
key combination — A command requiring you to press
multiple keys at the same time.
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.
Glossary
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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 processor.
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.
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 processor 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
processors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in
MHz.
168
Glossary
Mini PCI — A standard for integrated peripherals with
an emphasis on communications such as such as modems
and NICs. Mini PCI is a small card that is functionally
equivalent to a standard PCI expansion card.
modem — A device that allows your computer to
communicate with other computers over analog
telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external,
PC Card or ExpressCard, 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 an 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 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.
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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 processor
and devices such as video, drives, and networks.
PCI Express — A modification to the PCI interface that
boosts the data transfer rate between the processor and
the devices attached to it. PCI Express can transfer data at
speeds from 250 MB/sec to 4 GB/sec. If the PCI Express
chip set and the device are capable of different speeds,
they will operate at the slower speed.
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
processor 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.
processor — A computer chip that interprets and executes
program instructions. Sometimes the processor is referred
to as the CPU (central processing unit).
program — Any software that processes data for you,
including spreadsheet, word processor, database, and
game packages. Programs require an operating system to
run.
PS/2 — personal system/2 — A type of connector for
attaching a PS/2-compatible keyboard, mouse, or 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
method of providing data redundancy. Some common
implementations of RAID include RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 5, RAID 10, and RAID 50.
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.
Glossary
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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 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.
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Glossary
SDRAM — synchronous dynamic random-access memory
— A type of DRAM that is synchronized with the optimal
clock speed of the processor.
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 the 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 processor
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.
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Strike Zone™ — Reinforced area of the platform base
that protects the hard drive by acting as a dampening
device when a computer experiences resonating shock or
is dropped (whether the computer is on or off).
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.
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 — A utility that serves as an interface
between the computer hardware and the operating
system. System setup allows you to configure userselectable 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.
UMA — unified memory allocation — System memory
dynamically allocated to video.
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.
Glossary
171
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UXGA — ultra extended graphics array — A video
standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1600 x 1200.
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.
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.
W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One
W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt.
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.
WXGA — wide-aspect extended graphics array — A video
standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1280 x 800.
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.
XGA — extended graphics array — A video standard for
video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to
1024 x 768.
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.
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.
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.
172
Glossary
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.
book.book Page 173 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
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.
Glossary
173
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174
Glossary
book.book Page 175 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
Index
Numbers
battery-bay latch release, 23
5-in-1 media memory card
reader, 71
blanks
ExpressCards, 67
removing, 68, 72
audio connectors, 20
audio device
connecting, 55
enabling, 64
audio. See sound
battery
charge gauge, 47
charging, 47
checking the charge, 46
description, 23
health gauge, 47
installing, 108
life expectancy, 39
low-battery warning, 47
low-charge warning, 43
performance, 45
power conservation, 39
power meter, 46
removing, 108
storing, 48
Bluetooth wireless technology
card
device status light, 18
installing, 127
boot sequence, 138
brightness
adjusting, 33
CardBus technology
ExpressCards, 45, 67
media memory cards, 71
carnet, 140
CD drive
problems, 81
CD-RW drive
problems, 81
CDs, 52
operating system, 14
playing, 49
Check Disk, 81
cleaning
touch pad, 142
computer
crashes, 88-89
restore to previous operating
state, 100
restore to previous state, 99
slow performance, 83, 90
specifications, 131
stops responding, 88
conflicts
software and hardware
incompatibilities, 99
connecting
audio device, 55
TV, 55
Control Panel
power options, 42
copying CDs
general information, 52
helpful tips, 54
how to, 52
copying DVDs
general information, 52
helpful tips, 54
how to, 52
Dell
contacting, 145
support policy, 142
support site, 13
Index
175
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Index
Dell Diagnostics, 77
starting from the Drivers and
Utilities CD, 78
starting from your hard
drive, 77
documentation (continued)
safety, 12
warranty, 12
Dell MediaDirect, 17, 54
problems, 89
drivers, 96
about, 96
identifying, 97
reinstalling, 97
Dell Premier Support
website, 12
device security screw
about, 111
device status lights, 16
diagnostics
Dell, 77
display
adjusting brightness, 33
adjusting the size of icons, 44
adjusting the size of
toolbars, 44
description, 16
resolution, 34
switching the video image, 33
display latch, 18
display settings for a TV
enabling in Windows XP, 66
display. See monitor
documentation
End User License
Agreement, 12
ergonomics, 12
online, 13
Product Information
Guide, 12
regulatory, 12
176
Index
Dolby headphones, setting
up, 65
Drivers and Utilities CD, 98
drives
problems, 80
See hard drive
fan
description, 19, 23
FCC notice, 142
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 26
floppy drive
connecting to a USB
connector, 21-22
DVDs, 52
playing, 49
hard drive
description, 24
problems, 81
replacing, 108
returning to Dell, 111
hardware
conflicts, 99
Dell Diagnostics, 77
DVD drive
problems, 81
End User License
Agreement, 12
ergonomics information, 12
error messages, 83
ExpressCard slot
description, 20
ExpressCards
blanks, 67-68
CardBus technology, 45, 67
extended, 45, 67
installing, 67
removing, 68
slots, 45, 67
types, 45, 67
Hardware Troubleshooter, 99
Help and Support Center, 13
help file
Windows Help and Support
Center, 13
hibernate mode, 42-43
hinge cover
removing, 123
icons
adjusting the size, 44
book.book Page 177 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
IEEE 1394 connector
description, 20
problems, 87
Internet connection
about, 25
options, 25
setting up, 25
IRQ conflicts, 99
keyboard
description, 17
numeric keypad, 35
problems, 87
removing, 125
shortcuts, 36
keyboard status lights
description, 18
keypad
numeric, 35
labels
Microsoft Windows, 12
Service Tag, 12
lost computer, 141
media control buttons
Dell MediaDirect button, 54
description, 17
media control buttons
(continued)
play/pause/Dell
MediaDirect, 17
media memory cards
blanks, 72
CardBus technology, 71
installing, 71
removing, 72
slots, 71
types, 71
memory
adding, 113, 115
installing, 112
removing, 114, 116
memory module cover, 23
messages
error, 83
Microsoft Windows label, 12
Mini PCI card
installing, 121
modem
installing, 119
network
Network Setup Wizard, 73
problems, 91
setting up, 73
network connector
description, 22
Network Setup Wizard, 73
operating system
CD, 14
reinstalling, 14
reinstalling Windows XP, 100
Operating System CD, 14
optical drive
description, 21
optical-drive-tray eject
button
description, 21
modem connector
description, 21
modem cover
description, 24
playing CDs, 49
module bay
device security screw, 111
swapping devices, 111
monitor
problems, 95
switching the video image, 33
PC Restore, 101
playing DVDs, 49
power
hibernate mode, 42
line conditioners, 30
management, 39
power options properties, 42
problems, 91
Index
177
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book.book Page 178 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
Index
power (continued)
protection devices, 30
settings, 39
standby mode, 41
surge protectors, 30
UPS, 30
power light
conditions, 91
power management
adjusting settings, 44
QuickSet, 44
power management. See
power
printer
cable, 29
connecting, 29
problems, 92
setting up, 29
USB, 30
problems
blue screen, 89
CD drive, 81
CD-RW drive, 81
computer crashes, 88-89
computer does not start up, 88
computer stops responding, 88
conflicts, 99
Dell Diagnostics, 77
Dell MediaDirect, 89
drives, 80
DVD drive, 81
error messages, 83
hard drive, 81
IEEE 1394 connector, 87
keyboard, 87
lockups, 88
network, 91
178
Index
problems (continued)
power, 91
power light conditions, 91
printer, 92
program crashes repeatedly, 88
program stops responding, 88
programs and Windows
compatibility, 89
restore computer to previous
operating state, 100
restore operating system to
previous state, 99
scanner, 93
slow computer
performance, 83, 90
software, 88-90
sound and speakers, 94
speaker, 94
spyware, 83, 90
technical support policy, 142
video and monitor, 95
Product Information
Guide, 12
resolution
setting, 34
ResourceCD
Dell Diagnostics, 77
S/PDIF digital audio
enabling, 64
safety instructions, 12
scanner
problems, 93
screen. See monitor
security
device security screw, 111
security cable slot
description, 19
Service Tag, 12
software
conflicts, 99
problems, 89-90
QuickSet, 36, 44, 54
sound
problems, 94
volume, 94
speaker
problems, 94
volume, 94
RAM. See memory
regulatory information, 12
regulatory notice
FCC, 142
reinstalling
Windows XP, 100
speakers
description, 17
specifications, 131
spyware, 83, 90
standby mode
about, 41, 43
password options, 43
book.book Page 179 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
stolen computer, 141
support
contacting Dell, 145
policy, 142
support website, 13
S-video TV-out connector
description, 20
System Restore, 99-100
system setup program
commonly used options, 138
purpose, 137
screens, 138
viewing, 137
taskbar
QuickSet icon, 44
technical support
policy, 142
toolbars
adjusting the size, 44
troubleshooting
conflicts, 99
Dell Diagnostics, 77
external keyboard
problems, 87
Hardware Troubleshooter, 99
Help and Support Center, 13
restore computer to previous
operating state, 100
restore to previous state, 99
TV
connecting, 55
enabling display settings in
Windows XP, 66
uninterruptible power supply.
See UPS
UPS, 30
USB connectors
description, 21-22
touch pad
cleaning, 142
customizing, 38
description, 17
transferring information to a
new computer, 26
video connector
description, 22
traveling with the computer
by air, 140
identification tag, 139
packing, 139
tips, 140
volume
adjusting, 94
video
problems, 95
warranty information, 12
Windows XP
Device Driver Rollback, 97
enabling display settings for a
TV, 66
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 26
Hardware Troubleshooter, 99
Help and Support Center, 13
hibernate mode, 42
Network Setup Wizard, 73
power options properties, 42
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 89
reinstalling, 14, 100
standby mode, 41
System Restore, 99-100
wireless
turning activity on and off, 44
wizards
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 26
Network Setup Wizard, 73
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 89
Index
179
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book.book Page 180 Wednesday, September 28, 2005 2:16 PM
Index
180
Index

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