Dell Dimension 8400 Owners Manual Owner's

2014-11-13

: Dell Dell-Dimension-8400-Owners-Manual-110655 dell-dimension-8400-owners-manual-110655 dell pdf

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Dell™ Dimension™ 8400 Series
CD or DVD activity light
CD or DVD drive eject button

floppy drive eject button*
floppy drive light*
USB 2.0
connectors (2)

hard drive light
power button

headphone connector

*On computers with a
floppy drive.

Service Tag

power connector

parallel connector

voltage selection switch

diagnostic lights

serial connector
mouse connector

keyboard connector

surround connector
center/LFE connector

line-in connector

line-out connector

network adapter

microphone connector

DVI connector

USB 2.0 connectors (6)

PCI card (3), PCI
Express x1 card (1),
PCI Express x16
card (1) slots

VGA video connector
TV-OUT connector**
optional sound-card connectors**
**Not present on all computers.

w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m

Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows®
operating systems are not applicable.

____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2004 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault,
PowerApp, DellNet, PowerConnect, and Axim are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation;
Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model DHM

September 2004

P/N U7035

Rev. A00

Contents
Finding Information

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Setting Up a Printer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connecting to the Internet

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Setting Up Your Internet Connection
Playing CDs or DVDs .

11
11
11
12

Printer Cable . . . . . . . .
Connecting a USB Printer . .
Connecting a Parallel Printer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16
17

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusting the Volume
Adjusting the Picture
Copying CDs and DVDs .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

17
18
18

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

How to Copy a CD or DVD . . . .
Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs .
Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting Two Monitors

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . .

. . . .
. . . .

20
20
20

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors . . . . . . . .
Connecting One Monitor With a VGA connector and One Monitor
With a DVI Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changing the Display Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
About Your RAID Configuration .

. . . . .

21
21
22
23
24

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

28
29

RAID Level 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RAID Level 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Configuring Your Computer for RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Configuring for RAID Using the Intel(R) Option ROM Utility . . .
Configuring for RAID Using the Intel(R) Application Accelerator
Setting Up a Home and Office Network .
Connecting to a Network Adapter
Network Setup Wizard . . . . .

. . . .

. . . . .
. . . . .
. . . . .
. . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Contents

Power Management

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hyper-Threading .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips .
Battery Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Card Fan Problems .
Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems
Hard drive problems . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Error Messages

34
35

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

IEEE 1394 Device Problems .
Keyboard Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . .

38
39
39
39
39
39
40

Memory Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mouse Problems .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The computer does not start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A program stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A program crashes repeatedly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system.
A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Network Problems .

29
29
29
30
30

Overview . . . . . . . .
Standby Mode . . . . .
Hibernate Mode. . . . .
Power Options Properties

. . . .
. . . .
. . . .
. . . .
. . . .
. . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Power Problems .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Printer Problems .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Contents

Scanner Problems .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sound and Speaker Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

45
46

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

46
47

Diagnostic Lights

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dell Diagnostics .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If the screen is blank . . . . .
If the screen is difficult to read .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Advanced Troubleshooting

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu .
Drivers

What Is a Driver? .
Identifying Drivers.
Reinstalling Drivers

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Restoring Your Operating System .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore
Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

No sound from speakers. .
No sound from headphones
Video and Monitor Problems .

54
54
55
56
56
57

. . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing and Installing Parts
Before You Begin

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

59
59
60

Front View .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Back View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Recommended Tools . . . . . . . .
Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . .
Before Working Inside Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Front-Panel Door and Hinge Arms

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Reattaching the Hinge Arms .
Reattaching the Front Door .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

65
68

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Opening the Computer Cover .

Contents

Inside Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

System Board Components .
Memory .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

72
73
73
75

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

DDR2 Memory Overview . . . . . . . . . . .
Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations
Installing Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cards

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hard Drive .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

89
89

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Front-Panel Inserts
Floppy Drive .

Removing a Floppy Drive
Installing a Floppy Drive .
CD/DVD Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

91
92
93

Removing a Hard Drive . . .
Installing a Hard Drive . . . .
Adding a Second Hard Drive .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

97
98

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100
101

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103

Removing a CD/DVD Drive .
Installing a CD/DVD Drive .

Replacing the Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Closing the Computer Cover

Contents

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

General Installation Guidelines.
Connecting Drive Cables . . .

Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

76
81

Card Fan .
Drives .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PCI Cards . . . . .
PCI Express Cards.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

103
104

Appendix
Specifications .
System Setup

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

107

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

111

Overview . . . . . . .
Entering System Setup.
System Setup Options .
Boot Sequence . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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111
112
113
116

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117

Clearing CMOS Settings

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

119

Cleaning Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

119

Clearing Forgotten Passwords

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . .
CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

121
121

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121

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122
122
122

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123

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

141

Class A . . . . . . . . . . .
Class B . . . . . . . . . . .
FCC Identification Information
Contacting Dell

Index

120

. . . . . . . .

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals
Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals .
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

119
119
120
120

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Contents

Finding Information
What Are You Looking For?

Find it Here

•
•
•
•
•

Dell™ Product Information Guide

Warranty information
Safety instructions
Regulatory information
Ergonomics information
End User License Agreement

• How to set up my computer

Setup Diagram

Finding Information

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

What Are You Looking For?

Find it Here

• Service Tag and Express Service Code
• Microsoft Windows License Label

Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License
These labels are located on your computer.
• Use the Service Tag to
identify your computer
when you use
support.dell.com or
contact technical
support.
• Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when
contacting technical support. The Express Service Code
is not available in all countries.

• Latest drivers for my computer
• Answers to technical service and support questions
• Online discussions with other users and technical
support
• Documentation for my computer

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support
site.

• How to use Windows XP
• Documentation for my computer
• Documentation for devices (such as a modem)

Windows Help and Support Center
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and
click the arrow icon.
3 Click the topic that describes your problem.
4 Follow the instructions on the screen.

Finding Information

The Dell Support website provides several online tools,
including:
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles
from technicians, and online courses
• Community — Online discussion with other Dell
customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such
as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system
• Customer Care — Contact information, order status,
warranty, and repair information
• Downloads — Drivers, patches, and software updates
• Reference — Computer documentation, product
specifications, and white papers

Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Setting Up a Printer
NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer.
See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to:
•

Obtain and install updated drivers.

•

Connect the printer to the computer.

•

Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.

•

Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance.

Printer Cable
Your printer connects to your computer with either a USB cable or a parallel cable. Your printer may
not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible
with your printer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer,
the cable may arrive in the computer box.

Connecting a USB Printer
NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1

Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.

Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.

Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The
USB connectors fit only one way.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

USB connector on computer

USB printer cable

USB connector
on printer

Connecting a Parallel Printer
1

Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.

Turn off the computer (see page 59).
NOTICE: For best results, use a 3-m (10-ft) or shorter parallel cable.

Attach the parallel printer cable to the parallel connector on the computer and tighten the
two screws. Attach the cable to the connector on the printer and snap the two clips into the
two notches.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

parallel connector on computer

connector on printer
screws (2)
clips (2)

parallel printer
cable

notches (2)

Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard
window appears, click Cancel.

Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.

Connecting to the Internet
NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.
To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service
provider (ISP), such as AOL or MSN. Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet
connection options:
•

Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up
connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections.

•

DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone
line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same
line simultaneously.

•

Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable
TV line.

If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your
computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are
using a DSL or cable modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Setting Up Your Internet Connection
To set up an AOL or MSN connection:
1

Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an
Internet connection with a different ISP:
1

Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer.
The New Connection Wizard appears.

Click Connect to the Internet.

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

•

If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose from a list of Internet
service providers (ISPs).

•

If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a
setup CD, click Set up my connection manually.

•

If you have a CD, click Use the CD I got from an ISP.

Click Next.
If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the
instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.

Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then
click Next.

Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet
Problems" on page 35. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the
past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try
connecting again later.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Playing CDs or DVDs
NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when
you are not using the drive.

NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs.
1

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.

Press the eject button or gently push in the tray.

To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that
came with your computer.
NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.
A CD player includes the following basic buttons:
Play.
Move backward within the current track.
Pause.
Move forward within the current track.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Stop.
Go to the previous track.
Eject.
Go to the next track.

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:
Stop.
Restart the current chapter.
Play.
Fast forward.
Pause.
Fast reverse.
Advance a single frame while in pause mode.
Go to the next title or chapter.
Continuously play the current title or chapter.
Go to the previous title or chapter.
Eject.

For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Adjusting the Volume
NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.
1

Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment, and then click
Volume Control.

In the Volume Control window, click and drag the bar in the Volume Control column and
slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.

For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Adjusting the Picture
If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much
memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties.
1

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes.

Under Pick a task..., click Change the screen resolution.

In the Display Properties window, click and drag the bar in Screen resolution to change the
setting to 800 by 600 pixels.

Click the drop-down menu under Color quality, and then click Medium (16 bit).

Click OK.

Copying CDs and DVDs
NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs or DVDs.
This section applies only to computers that have a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD+R, or
DVD/CD-RW combo drive.
NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
The following instructions show how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use
Sonic RecordNow for other purposes, including creating CDs from audio files on your computer
and creating MP3 CDs. For instructions, see the Sonic RecordNow documentation that came with
your computer. Open Sonic RecordNow, click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of
the window, and then click RecordNow Help or RecordNow Tutorial.

How to Copy a CD or DVD
NOTE: If you have a DVD/CD-RW combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for
available software patches at the Sonic support website at support.sonic.com.
Currently, five DVD-writable disc formats are available: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW,
and DVD-RAM. The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to DVD+R and
DVD+RW media, and can read DVD-R and DVD-RW media. However, DVD-writable drives do
not write to and might not read DVD-RAM media. In addition, commercially available DVD
players for home theater systems might not read all five formats.
NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic
RecordNow.
1

Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Sonic→ RecordNow!, and then click
RecordNow!

Click either the audio tab or the data tab, depending on the kind of CD or DVD you want to
copy.

Click Exact Copy.
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To copy the CD or DVD:
•

If you have one CD or DVD drive, ensure that the settings are correct and click Copy. The
computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies it to a temporary folder on your
computer hard drive.
When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the CD or DVD drive and click OK.

•

If you have two CD or DVD drives, select the drive into which you have inserted your
source CD or DVD and click Copy. The computer copies the data on the CD or DVD to
the blank CD or DVD.

Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have
created automatically ejects.

Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs
Your CD-RW drive can write to two different types of recording media—CD-Rs and CD-RWs
(including high-speed CD-RWs). Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files.
After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more
information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.
Your DVD-writable drive can write to four different types of recording media—CD-Rs, CD-RWs
(including high-speed CD-RWs), DVD+Rs, and DVD+RWs. Blank DVD+Rs can be used to
permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+R disc, you may not be
able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc
creation process. Use blank DVD+RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that
disc later.

Helpful Tips
•

Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after
you start Sonic RecordNow and open a RecordNow project.

•

You must use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do
not play in most home or car stereos.

•

You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic RecordNow.

•

Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software
installed.

•

Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a
650-MB file to a 650-MB blank CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1 or 2 MB of the blank CD to
finalize the recording.

•

Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording
techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again. You
can also use blank CD-RWs to test music file projects before you record the project
permanently to a blank CD-R.

See the Sonic support website at support.sonic.com for additional information.
18

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Connecting Two Monitors
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you are connecting two monitors that have VGA connectors, you must have the optional DVI
adapter. If you are connecting two flat-panel monitors, at least one of them must have a VGA connector.
If you are connecting a TV, you may connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the TV.

If you purchased a graphics card that supports dual monitors, follow these instructions to connect
and enable your monitors. The instructions tell you how to connect either two monitors (each with
a VGA connector), one monitor with a VGA connector and one monitor with a DVI connector, or
a TV.

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.
NOTE: If your computer has integrated video, do not connect either monitor to the integrated video
connector. If the integrated video connector is covered by a cap, do not remove the cap to connect the
monitor or the monitor will not function.

Connect one of the monitors to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.

Connect the other monitor to the optional DVI adapter and connect the DVI adapter to the
DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.
optional DVI adapter

DVI (white) connector
TV-OUT connector
VGA (blue) connector

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Connecting One Monitor With a VGA connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the
computer.

Connect the DVI connector on the other monitor to the DVI (white) connector on the back
of the computer.

Connecting a TV
NOTE: To connect a TV to your computer, you must purchase an S-video cable, which is available at
most consumer electronics stores. An S-video cable is not included with your computer.
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Connect one end of the S-video cable to the TV-OUT connector on the back of the computer.

Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV.

Connect the VGA or DVI monitor.

Changing the Display Settings
1

After you connect the monitor(s) or TV, turn on the computer.
The Microsoft® Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.

Enable clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings.
•

In clone mode, both monitors display the same image.

•

In extended desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively
doubling the amount of viewable work space.

For information on changing the display settings for your graphics card, see the user’s guide in
the Help and Support Center (click the Start button, click Help and Support, click User and
system guides, click Device guides, and then click the guide for your graphics card).

About Your RAID Configuration
This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration that you might have selected when
you purchased your computer. Although several RAID configurations are available, Dell offers
either RAID level 0 or RAID level 1 for its Dimension computers. A RAID level 0 configuration is
recommended for high-performance gaming, and a RAID level 1 configuration is recommended for
the data integrity requirements of digital photography and audio.
The Intel RAID controller on your computer can only create a RAID volume using two physical
drives. If a third drive is present, then that drive cannot be made part of a RAID volume using the
Intel RAID configuration program, although it can be used as a spare drive in a RAID 1
configuration (see "Creating a Spare Hard Drive" on page 27). However, if four drives are present in

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

your computer, then each pair of drives can be made into RAID level 0 or RAID level 1 volumes.
The drives should be the same size in order to ensure that the larger drive does not contain
unallocated (and therefore unusable) space.
NOTE: RAID levels do not represent a hierarchy. A RAID level 1 configuration is not inherently better or
worse than a RAID level 0 configuration.

RAID Level 0
RAID level 0 uses a storage technique known as "data striping" to provide a high data access rate.
Data striping is a method of writing consecutive segments, or stripes, of data sequentially across
the physical drives to create a large virtual drive. Data striping allows one of the drives to read data
while the other drive is searching for and reading the next block.
serial ATA RAID
configured for
RAID level 0

segment 1

segment 2

segment 3

segment 4

segment 5

segment 6

hard drive 1

hard drive 2

Another advantage of a RAID level 0 configuration is that it utilizes the full capacities of the drives.
For example, if you have two 120-GB drives installed, you have 240 GB on which to store data.
NOTICE: Because RAID level 0 provides no data redundancy, if one drive fails, then the data on the
other drive is also inaccessible. Therefore, ensure that you perform regular backups when you use a
RAID level 0 configuration.

RAID Level 1
RAID level 1 uses a data-redundancy storage technique known as "mirroring." When data is written
to the primary drive, it is then duplicated, or mirrored, on the other drive. A RAID level 1
configuration sacrifices high data access rates for its data redundancy advantages.

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serial ATA RAID
configured for
RAID level 1

segment 1

segment 1 duplicated

segment 2

segment 2 duplicated

segment 3

segment 3 duplicated

segment 4

segment 4 duplicated

segment 5

segment 5 duplicated

segment 6

segment 6 duplicated

hard drive 1

hard drive 2

If a drive failure occurs, subsequent read and write operations are directed to the surviving drive. A
replacement drive can then be rebuilt using the data from the surviving drive. Also, because data is
duplicated on both drives, two 120-GB RAID level 1 drives collectively have a maximum of 120-GB
on which to store data.

Configuring Your Computer for RAID
At some point you may want to configure your computer for RAID if you did not select a RAID
configuration when you purchased your computer. You must have at least two hard drives installed
in your computer to set up a RAID configuration. For instructions on how to install a hard drive,
see page 92.
You can use one of two methods to configure RAID hard drive volumes. One method uses the
Intel(R) Option ROM utility, and is performed before you install the operating system onto the
hard drive. The second method uses the Intel Application Accelerator, or Intel Storage Utility, and
this method is performed after you have installed the operating system and the Intel Storage
Utility. Both methods require that you set your computer to RAID-enabled mode before starting
any of the RAID configuration procedures in this document.
Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode

Enter system setup (see page 112).

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Drives, and press .

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Drive Controller, and press .

Use the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight RAID On, press , and then
press .

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Use the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight Save/Exit, and press to exit system
setup and resume the boot process.

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel(R) Option ROM Utility
NOTE: Although any size drives may be used to create a RAID configuration using the Intel Option ROM
utility, ideally the drives should be of equal size. In a RAID level 0 configuration, the size of the array will
be the size of the smallest disk multiplied by the number (two) of disks in the array. In a RAID level 1
configuration, the size of the array will be the smaller of the two disks used.

Creating a RAID Level 0 Configuration

NOTICE: You will lose any data on your hard drives when you create a RAID configuration using the
following procedure. Back up data you want to keep before continuing.
NOTE: The following procedure should only be used if you are reinstalling your operating system. The
following procedure should not be used to migrate an existing storage configuration to RAID 0.
1

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 22).

Press when you are prompted to enter the Intel(R) RAID Option ROM utility.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Create RAID Volume, and press .

Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default, and press .

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select RAID0(Stripe), and press .

If there are more than two hard disks available, use the up- and down-arrow keys and space bar
to select the two disks you want to use to make up your array, and then press .
NOTE: Select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to store on the RAID volume. If
you do not know the average file size, choose 128 as your strip size.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to change the strip size, and press .

Select the desired capacity for the volume, and press . The default value is the
maximum available size.

Press to create the volume.

Press to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.

Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main Intel Option ROM
screen.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select Exit, and press .

Install the operating system.

Creating a RAID Level 1 Configuration
1

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 22).

Press when you are prompted to enter Intel RAID Option ROM.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Create RAID Volume, and press .
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Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default, and press .

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select RAID1(Mirror), and press .

If there are more than two hard disks available, use the up- and down-arrow keys and space bar
to select the two disks you want to use to make up your array, and then press .

Select the desired capacity for the volume, and press . The default value is the
maximum available size.

Press to create the volume.

Press to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.

Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main Intel Option ROM
screen.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select Exit, and press .

Install the operating system.

Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.
NOTE: If your computer currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume in the Intel RAID Option
ROM, your computer will become unbootable.
1

Press when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Delete RAID Volume, and press .

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the RAID volume you want to delete, and press
.

Press to confirm the deletion of the RAID volume.

Press to exit the Intel Option ROM utility.

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel(R) Application Accelerator
If you already have one hard drive with the operating system installed on it, and you want to add a
second hard drive and reconfigure both drives into a RAID volume without losing the existing
operating system and any data, you need to use the migrating option (see "Migrating to a RAID 0
Volume" on page 26 or "Migrating to a RAID 1 Volume" on page 27). Create a RAID 0 Volume or
RAID 1 Volume only when:

•

You are adding two new drives to an existing single-drive computer (and the operating system
is on the single drive), and you want to configure the two new drives into a RAID volume.

•

You already have a two-hard drive computer configured into an array, but you still have some
space left on the array that you want to designate as a second RAID volume.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Creating a RAID 0 Volume

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.
1

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 22).

Click Start and point to Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel Application
Accelerator to launch the Intel(R) Storage Utility.
NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled
mode (see page 22).

On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume to launch the Create RAID Volume
Wizard, and then click Next.

On the Select Volume Location screen, click the first hard drive you want to include in your
RAID 0 volume, and then click the right arrow. Click a second hard drive until two drives
appear in the Selected window, and then click Next.

In the Specify Volume Size window, click the Volume Size desired, and then click Next.

Click Finish to create the volume, or click Back to make changes.

Creating a RAID 1 Volume

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.
1

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 22).

Click the Start button and point to Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel
Application Accelerator to launch the Intel(R) Storage Utility.
NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled
mode (see page 22).

On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume to launch the Create RAID Volume
Wizard.

Click Next at the first screen.

Confirm the volume name, select RAID 1 as the RAID level, and then click Next to continue.

On the Select Volume Location screen, click the first hard drive you want to use to create
your RAID 0 volume, and then click the right arrow. Click a second hard drive until two drives
appear in the Selected window, and then click Next.

In the Specify Volume Size window, select the Volume Size desired and click Next.

Click Finish to create the volume, or click Back to make changes.

Follow Microsoft Windows procedures for creating a partition on the new RAID volume.

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Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTE: While this procedure deletes the RAID 1 volume, it also splits the RAID 1 volume into two nonRAID hard drives with a partition, and leaves any existing data files intact. Deleting a RAID 0 volume,
however, destroys all data on the volume.
1

Click the Start button and point to Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel
Application Accelerator to launch the Intel(R) Storage Utility.

Right-click the Volume icon of the RAID volume you want to delete, and select Delete
Volume.

On the Delete RAID Volume Wizard screen, click Next.

Highlight the RAID volume you want to delete in the Available box, click the right-arrow
button to move the highlighted RAID volume into the Selected box, and then click Next.

Click Finish to delete the volume.

Migrating to a RAID 0 Volume
1

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 22).

Click the Start button and point to All Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel
Application Accelerator to launch the Intel(R) Storage Utility.
NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled
mode (see page 22).

On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard Drive to launch the
Migration Wizard.

Click Next on the Migration Wizard screen.

Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default.

From the drop-down box, select RAID 0 as the RAID level.
NOTE: Select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to store on the RAID volume. If
you do not know the average file size, choose 128 as your strip size.

Select the appropriate strip size from the drop-down box, and then click Next.
NOTE: Select the hard drive that you want to use as your source hard drive (it should be the hard drive
containing the data or operating system files that you want to keep on the RAID volume).

On the Select Source Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive from which you want to
migrate, and click Next.

On the Select Member Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive to select the member
drive to span the stripe array, and click Next.

On the Specify Volume Size screen, select the Volume Size you want, and click Next.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

NOTE: In the following step, you will lose all data contained on the member drive.
11

Click Finish to start migrating, or click Back to make changes. You can use your computer
normally during the migration process.

Migrating to a RAID 1 Volume
1

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 22).

On the Actions menu, click Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard Drive to launch the
Migration Wizard.

Click Next on the first Migration Wizard screen.

Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default.

From the drop-down box, select RAID 1 as the RAID level.
NOTE: Select the hard drive that already has the data or operating system files that you want to maintain
on the RAID volume as your source hard drive.

On the Select Source Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive from which you want to
migrate, and click Next.

On the Select Member Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive to select the member
drive that you want to act as the mirror in the array, and click Next.

On the Specify Volume Size screen, select the volume size you want, and click Next.
NOTE: In the following step, you will lose all data contained on the member drive.

Click Finish to start migrating, or click Back to make changes. You can use your computer
normally during migration process.

Creating a Spare Hard Drive

A spare hard drive may be created with a RAID 1 array. The spare hard drive will not be recognized by
the operating system, but you will be able to see the spare drive from within Disk Manager or the Intel
Option ROM Utility. When a member of the RAID 1 array is broken, the computer automatically
rebuilds the mirror array using the spare hard drive as the broken member’s replacement.
To Mark a Drive as a Spare Hard Drive:
1

Click the Start button and point to Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel
Application Accelerator to launch the Intel(R) Storage Utility.

Right-click the hard drive you want to mark as a spare hard drive.

Click Mark as Spare.

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To Remove Spare Marking From a Spare Hard Drive:
1

Right-click the spare hard drive icon.

Click Reset Hard Drive to Non-RAID

Rebuilding a Degraded RAID 1 Volume

If your computer does not have a spare hard drive, and the computer has reported a degraded RAID
1 volume, you can manually rebuild the computer’s redundancy mirror to a new hard drive by
performing the following steps:
1

Click the Start button and point to Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel
Application Accelerator to launch the Intel(R) Storage Utility.

Right-click the available hard drive to which you want to rebuild the RAID 1 volume, and
click Rebuild to this Disk.

You can use your computer while the computer is rebuilding the RAID 1 volume.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network
Connecting to a Network Adapter
NOTE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the computer. Do not plug the
network cable into the modem connector on the computer. Do not plug a network cable into a telephone
wall jack.
1

Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.
Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.

Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device.

network adapter
connector

network adapter connector on computer

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

network device

network cable

Network Setup Wizard
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you
through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a
home or small office.
1

Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications, and then
click Network Setup Wizard.

On the welcome screen, click Next.

Click Checklist for creating a network.
NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the
integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1).

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.

Power Management
Overview
The Microsoft® Windows® XP power management features can reduce the amount of electricity
your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can reduce power to just the monitor
or the hard drive, or you can use standby mode or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire
computer. When the computer exits from a power conservation mode, the Windows desktop is
restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode.
NOTE: Windows XP Professional includes security and networking features not available in
Windows XP Home Edition. When a Windows XP Professional computer is connected to a network,
different options related to security and networking appear in certain windows.

Standby Mode
Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out.
When the computer exits from standby mode, it returns to the operating state it was in before it
entered standby mode.
To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity:
1

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.

Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.

To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click the Start button, click
Turn Off Computer, and then click Stand by.
To exit from standby mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.
NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data.
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Hibernate Mode
Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and
then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits from hibernate mode, the
desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered hibernate mode.
To activate hibernate mode:
1

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.

Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.

Define your hibernate settings on the Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab, and Hibernate tab.

To exit from hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit
from hibernate mode. Pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the
computer out of hibernation, because the keyboard and the mouse do not function when the
computer is in hibernate mode.
Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store
the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file
before shipping the computer to you. If the computer’s hard drive becomes corrupted,
Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.

Power Options Properties
Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the Power
Options Properties window. To access the Power Options Properties window:
1

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.

Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.

Define your power settings on the Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab, and Hibernate tab.

Power Schemes Tab

Each standard power setting is called a scheme. If you want to select one of the standard Windows
schemes installed on your computer, choose a scheme from the Power schemes drop-down menu.
The settings for each scheme appear in the fields below the scheme name. Each scheme has
different settings for starting standby mode or hibernate mode, turning off the monitor, and
turning off the hard drive.
The Power schemes drop-down menu displays the following schemes:

•

Always On (default) — If you want to use your computer with no power conservation.

•

Home/Office Desk — If you use your computer as a home or office computer and you require
minimal power conservation.

•

Portable/Laptop — If your computer is a portable computer that you use for traveling.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

•

Presentation — If you want your computer to run without interruption (using no power
conservation).

•

Minimal Power Management — If you want your computer to run with minimal power
conservation.

•

Max Battery — If your computer is a portable computer and you run your computer from
batteries for extended periods of time.

If you want to change the default settings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the Turn off
monitor, Turn off hard disks, System stand by, or System hibernates field, and then select a timeout from the displayed list. Changing the time-out for a scheme field permanently changes the
default settings for that scheme, unless you click Save As and enter a new name for the changed
scheme.
NOTICE: If you set the hard drive (hard disk) to time-out before the monitor does, your computer may
appear to be locked up. To recover, press any key on the keyboard or click the mouse. To avoid this
problem, always set the monitor to time-out before the hard drive.
Advanced Tab

The Advanced tab allows you to:
•

Place the power options icon

in the Windows taskbar for quick access.

•

Set the computer to prompt you for your Windows password before the computer exits from
standby mode or hibernate mode.

•

Program the power button to activate standby mode, activate hibernate mode, or turn off the
computer.

To program these functions, click an option from the corresponding drop-down menu and
click OK.
Hibernate Tab

The Hibernate tab allows you to enable hibernate mode. If you want to use the hibernate settings
you defined on the Power Schemes tab, click the Enable hibernate support check box on the
Hibernate tab.
For more information on power management options:
1

Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

In the Help and Support window, click Performance and maintenance.

In the Performance and maintenance window, click Conserving power on your computer.

Hyper-Threading
Hyper-Threading is an Intel® technology that can enhance overall computer performance by
allowing one physical processor to function as two logical processors, capable of performing certain
tasks simultaneously. It is recommended that you use the Microsoft® Windows® XP Service Pack 1
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(SP1) or later operating system because Windows XP is optimized to take advantage of
Hyper-Threading technology. While many programs can benefit from Hyper-Threading, some
programs have not been optimized for Hyper-Threading and may require an update from the
software manufacturer. Contact the software manufacturer for updates and information about
using Hyper-Threading with your software.
To determine if your computer is using Hyper-Threading technology:
1

Click the Start button, right-click My Computer, and then click Properties.

Click Hardware and click Device Manager.

In the Device Manager window, click the plus (+) sign next to Processors. If Hyper-Threading
is enabled, the processor is listed twice.

You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. For more information on
accessing system setup, see page 111. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the
Knowledge Base on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips
Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer:
•

If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures
and ensure that the part is correctly installed.

•

If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.

•

If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may
help technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).

•

If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.

Battery Problems
CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the
battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used
batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
R E P L A C E T H E B A T T E R Y — If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on
the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see page 103).
If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 123).

Card Fan Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
C H E C K T H E C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N S — Ensure that the card fan cable is connected firmly to the card fan
connector on the system board (see page 71).

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Drive Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located 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 119.
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See page 58.
R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S — See page 52.

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.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —
• Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
• Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.
• Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.
C H E C K T H E S P E A K E R S A N D S U B W O O F E R — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 45.

Solving Problems

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 C D / D V D - R W D I S C — See
"Standby Mode" on page 29 or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help (see page 10) for
information on power management modes.

Hard drive problems
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.

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located 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.

Solving Problems

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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 use the telephone to 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.
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.

Error Messages
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located 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.

Solving Problems

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.
A R E Q U I R E D . D L L 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. To remove and then reinstall the program:
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Add or Remove Programs.
2 Select the program you want to remove.
3 Click the Change or Remove Program icon.
4 See the program documentation for installation instructions.
drive letter : \ I S N O T A C C E S S I B L E . T H E D E V I C E I S N O T R E A D Y — The drive cannot read the disk.
Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
I N S E R T B O O T A B L E M E D I A — Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.
N O N - S YS T E M D I S K E R R O R — Remove the floppy disk from the drive and restart your computer.
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 . C L O S E S O M E P R O G R A M S A N D T R Y A G A I N — Close all
windows and open the program that you want to use. In some cases, you might have to restart your
computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.
O P E R A T I N G S YS T E M N O T F O U N D — Contact Dell (see page 123).

IEEE 1394 Device Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located
in the Product Information Guide.

E N S U R E T H A T T H E C A B L E F O R T H E IEEE 1394 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 D E V I C E A N D
INTO THE CONNECTOR ON THE COMPUTER

E N S U R E T H A T T H E IEEE 1394 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.

Solving Problems

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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 IEEE 1394 D E V I C E — Contact Dell (see page 123).
I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A N O N -D E L L IEEE 1394 D E V I C E — Contact the manufacturer of the
IEEE 1394 device.

Keyboard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE —
• Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.
• Shut down the computer (see page 59), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for
your computer, and then restart the computer.
• Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent
pins.
• Remove keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.
TE S T T H E K E Y B O A R D — Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, and try using the
keyboard.
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See page 58.

Lockups and Software Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.

The computer does not start up
C H E C K T H E D I A G N O S T I C L I G H T S — See page 49.
ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE
ELECTRICAL OUTLET

Solving Problems

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
END THE PROGRAM —
1 Press simultaneously.
2 Click Applications.
3 Click the program that is no longer responding.
4 Click End Task.

A program crashes repeatedly
NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.
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.

A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system
RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so it runs in an environment similar to nonWindows 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.

Solving Problems

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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
USE A VIRUS-SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE, FLOPPY DISKS, OR CDS
SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER THROUGH THE
START MENU

Memory Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located 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 page 73).
• Reseat the memory modules (see page 72) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating
with the memory.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 52).

Solving Problems

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —
• Reseat the memory modules (see page 73) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating
with the memory.
• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see page 73).
• Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by
your computer, see "Memory" on page 107.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 52).

Mouse Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
C L E A N T H E M O U S E — See page 119 for instructions on cleaning the mouse.
CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —
1 Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent
pins.
2 Remove mouse extension cables, if used, and connect the mouse directly to the computer.
3 Shut down the computer (see page 59), reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the setup diagram for
your computer, and then restart the computer.
RESTART THE COMPUTER —
1 Simultaneously press to display the Start menu.
2 Type u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn Off, and then press .
3 After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the on the setup diagram for your
computer.
4 Start the computer.
TE S T T H E M O U S E — Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, and try using the mouse.
CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS —
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click Mouse.
3 Try adjusting the settings.

Solving Problems

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R E I N S T A L L T H E M O U S E D R I V E R — See page 55.
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See page 58.

Network Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located 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 B A C K O F T H E C O M P U T E R — If the link integrity light is off,
that indicates no network communication exists. Replace the network cable. For a description of
network lights, see "Controls and Lights" on page 110.
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.
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See page 58.

Power Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S G R E E N A N D T H E C O M P U T E R I S N O T R E S P O N D I N G — See "Diagnostic Lights"
on page 49.
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S B L I N K I N G G R E E N — The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the
keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation.

Solving Problems

I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S O F F — The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.
• Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical
outlet.
• If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical
outlet and that the power strip is turned on. Also bypass power protection devices, power strips, and
power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on properly.
• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see
page 71).
IF
•
•
•

— A device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.
Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see page 73).
Remove and then reinstall any cards (see page 76).
Remove and then reinstall the graphics card, if applicable (see page 81).

THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER

I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S B L I N K I N G A M B E R — The computer is receiving electrical power, but an
internal power problem might exist.
Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location (if applicable).
Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 71).
E L I M I N A T E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Some possible causes of interference are:
• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables
• Too many devices on a power strip
• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Printer Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’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.
ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON

Solving Problems

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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 (see page 11).
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
located 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 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.

Solving Problems

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.

Sound and Speaker Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.

No sound from speakers
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.
C H E C K T H E S P E A K E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N S — Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on
the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If you purchased a sound card, ensure that the speakers
are connected to the card.
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.

Solving Problems

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RUN THE SPEAKER DIAGNOSTICS
R E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D D R I V E R — See page 55.
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See page 58.

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 page 61).
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.

Video and Monitor Problems
See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.

If the screen is blank
CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION —
• Ensure that the graphics cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.
• If you are using a graphics extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is
defective.
• Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective.
• Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing
pins.)
C H E C K T H E M O N I T O R P O W E R L I G H T — If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that
the monitor is turned on. If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power. If the power light is
blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

Solving Problems

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 D I A G N O S T I C L I G H T S — See page 49.

If the screen is difficult to read
C H E C K T H E M O N I T O R S E T T I N G S — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the
contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
M O V E T H E S U B W O O F E R A W A Y F R O M T H E M O N I T O R — If your speaker system includes a subwoofer,
ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the monitor.
M O V E T H E M O N I T O R A W A Y F R O M E X T E R N A L P O W E R S O U R C E S — Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen
lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky." Turn off nearby devices
to check for interference.
ROTATE THE MONITOR TO ELIMINATE SUNLIGHT GLARE AND POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE
ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Appearance and Themes.
2 Click Display and click the Settings tab.
3 Try different settings for Screen resolution and Color quality.

Solving Problems

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Advanced Troubleshooting
Diagnostic Lights
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "A," "B," "C," and "D" on
the back panel (see page 63). The lights can be yellow or green. When the computer starts
normally, the lights flash. After the computer starts, all four lights display solid green. If the
computer malfunctions, the color and sequence of the lights identify the problem.
Light Pattern

Problem Description

Suggested Resolution

The computer is in a normal off condition or a Plug the computer into a working electrical
possible pre-BIOS failure has occurred.
outlet and press the power button.

A B C D
A possible processor failure has occurred.

Contact Dell (see page 123).

A B C D
= yellow
= green
= off

Advanced Troubleshooting

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Light Pattern

Problem Description

Suggested Resolution

Memory modules are detected, but a memory
failure has occurred.

• If you have two or more memory modules
installed, remove the modules, reinstall one
module (see page 73), and then restart the
computer. If the computer starts normally,
reinstall an additional module. Continue
until you have identified a faulty module or
reinstalled all modules without error.
• If available, install properly working memory
of the same type into your computer (see
page 73).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see
page 123).

A possible graphics card failure has occurred.

• If the computer has a graphics card, remove
the card, reinstall it (see page 81), and then
restart the computer.
• If the problem still exists, install a graphics
card that you know works and restart the
computer.
• If the problem persists or the computer has
integrated graphics, contact Dell (see
page 123).

A possible floppy or hard drive failure has
occurred.

Reseat all power and data cables and restart
the computer.

A possible USB failure has occurred.

Reinstall all USB devices, check cable
connections, and then restart the computer.

A B C D

= yellow
= green
= off

Advanced Troubleshooting

Light Pattern

Problem Description

Suggested Resolution

No memory modules are detected.

Memory modules are detected, but a memory
configuration or compatibility error exists.

• Ensure that no special memory
module/memory connector placement
requirements exist (see page 73).
• Verify that the memory modules that you are
installing are compatible with your computer
(see page 73).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see
page 123).

A possible expansion card failure has occurred.

1 Determine if a conflict exists by removing a

A B C D

card (not a graphics card) (see page 81) and
restarting the computer.
2 If the problem persists, reinstall the card that
you removed, remove a different card, and
then restart the computer.
3 Repeat this process for each card. If the
computer starts normally, troubleshoot the
last card removed from the computer for
resource conflicts (see "Resolving Software
and Hardware Incompatibilities" on
page 58).
4 If the problem persists, contact Dell (see
page 123).

= yellow
= green
= off

Advanced Troubleshooting

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Light Pattern

Problem Description

Suggested Resolution

Another failure has occurred.

• Ensure that the cables are properly
connected to the system board from the hard
drive, CD drive, and DVD drive (see
page 99).
• If there is an error message on your screen
identifying a problem with a device (such as
the floppy drive or hard drive), check the
device to make sure it is functioning properly.
• The operating system is attempting to boot
from a device (such as the floppy drive or
hard drive); check system setup (see
page 111) to make sure the boot sequence is
correct for the devices installed on your
computer.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see
page 123).

The computer is in a normal operating
condition after POST.

None.

A B C D

= yellow
= green
= off

Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on
page 33 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.
1

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately.
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 (see page 59) and try again.

When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press .

Advanced Troubleshooting

When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see
page 53).

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
an 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.

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 (see page 123).
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.

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.

Advanced Troubleshooting

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Tab

Function

Configuration

Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all
devices from system setup, 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
4

Allows you to customize the test by changing the test settings.

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.

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.
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.
Windows XP

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.

Click System.

In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.

Advanced Troubleshooting

Click Device Manager.

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 page 55).

Reinstalling Drivers
NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com provides 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.

Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.

Click System.

In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.

Click Device Manager.

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties.

Click the Drivers tab.

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.
Manually Reinstalling Drivers
1

After copying the required driver files to your hard drive, click the Start button and right-click
My Computer.

Click Properties.

Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.

Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver.

Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.

Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.

Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click Next.

Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.

Click Finish and restart your computer.
Advanced Troubleshooting

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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.

•

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.

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 10.
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
work 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.

Click System Restore.

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 55) 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.

Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected and click Next.

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.

Advanced Troubleshooting

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.

Click Next.
The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and
then the computer restarts.

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.

Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec
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.
NOTICE: Using 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.
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.

Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press .
If you do not press in time, let the computer finish restarting, and then
restart the computer again.
NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the following step.

On the next screen that appears, click Restore.

Advanced Troubleshooting

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On the next screen, click Confirm.
The restore process takes approximately 6–10 minutes to complete.

When prompted, click Finish to reboot the computer.
NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot.

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.

Click Next.
The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts.

After the computer restarts, click OK.

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.

Click Performance and Maintenance.

Click System.

Click the System Restore tab.

Ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.

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 resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:

Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

Type hardware troubleshooter in the Search field and click the arrow to start the search.

Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.

In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my
computer, and click Next.

Advanced Troubleshooting

Removing and Installing 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 page 59) and "Before
Working Inside Your Computer" (see page 60).

•

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

•

Flash BIOS update program floppy disk or CD

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:
a

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.

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.

Removing and Installing Parts

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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
located 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

Turn off your computer (see page 59).
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it
from the network device.

Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.

Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then
press the power button to ground the system board.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover (see page 69).
NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted
metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an
unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.

Removing and Installing Parts

Front View
1
2

3*
10

4*
5
9

6
8
7

*On computers with a floppy drive.

CD or DVD drive-activity
light

The drive light is on when the computer reads data from the
CD or DVD drive.

CD or DVD drive eject
button

Press to eject a disc from the CD or DVD drive.

floppy-drive eject button

Press to eject a floppy disk from the floppy drive.
(On computers with an optional floppy drive.)

floppy-drive activity light

The floppy drive light is on when the computer reads data from
or writes data to the floppy drive. Wait until this light turns off
before you remove the floppy disk from the drive.
(On computers with an optional floppy drive.)

hard-drive activity light

The hard drive light is on when the computer reads data from
or writes data to the hard drive. The light might also be on
when a device such as your CD player is operating.

Removing and Installing Parts

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power button

Press to turn on the computer.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the
computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown.
7

Service Tag

Used to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call
technical support.

headphone connector

Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most kinds of speakers.

USB 2.0 connectors (2)

Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see "System Setup" on page 111
for more information on booting to a USB device).
It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors for devices that typically
remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.

front-panel door

Open the door to use the front-panel connectors.
NOTE: The front door is removable; if you remove it or accidentally knock it off its
hinges, it snaps back in place. For instructions on how to reattach the door, see
page 65.

Removing and Installing Parts

Back View
1

2
3
4

5
6
7

19
18

9
16

10*

15
11

14
13
12*
*Not present on all computers.

power connector

Insert the power cable.

voltage selection switch (may
not be available on all
computers)

See the safety instructions located in the Product Information
Guide for more information.

parallel connector

Connect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel
connector. If you have a USB printer, plug it into a USB
connector.

diagnostic lights (4)

Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem
based on the diagnostic code. For more information, see
"Diagnostic Lights" on page 49.

mouse connector

Plug a standard mouse into the green mouse connector. Turn
off the computer and any attached devices before you connect
a mouse to the computer. If you have a USB mouse, plug it
into a USB connector.

Removing and Installing Parts

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surround connector

Use the black surround connector to attach multichannel-capable speakers.

line-in connector

Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a cassette
player, CD player, or VCR.

On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
8

TV-OUT connector

Connects your computer to a TV. For more information, see "Connecting to the
Internet" on page 13.

DVI video connector

If your monitor has a DVI connector, plug it into the DVI connector on the
computer. If your monitor has a VGA connector, plug it into the VGA connector on
the computer.

optional sound card
connectors

• Line-in connector — Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback
device such as a cassette player, CD player, or VCR.
• Microphone connector — Use the pink microphone connector to attach a
personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or
telephony program.
• Line-out connector — Use the green line-out connector to attach headphones
and most speakers with integrated amplifiers.
• Surround connector — Use the black surround connector to attach multichannelcapable speakers.
• Center/Low-Frequency Effects (LFE) connector — Use the yellow center/LFE
connector to attach your subwoofer.

card slots (5)

Access connectors for any installed PCI cards (three slots) and PCI Express cards
(one x16 slot and one x1 slot).

modem connector(s)

(Optional) If you have a modem, connect a telephone cable to either of the modem
connectors. Do not connect the telephone cable to the network connector.
NOTE: Not all modems have two connectors.

VGA video connector

If your monitor has a DVI connector, plug it into the DVI connector on the
computer. If your monitor has a VGA connector, plug it into the VGA connector on
the computer.

Removing and Installing Parts

network adapter
connector

To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a
network cable to either a network jack or your network or broadband device.
Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on
your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely
attached.
NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network connector.
On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card.
It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your
network. If you must use Category 3 wiring, force the network speed to 10 Mbps to
ensure reliable operation.

USB 2.0 connectors (6)

Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
printers and keyboards.
It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you
connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices.

microphone connector

Use the pink microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone
for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.

line-out connector

Use the green line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with
integrated amplifiers.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

center/Low-Frequency
Effects (LFE) connector

Use the yellow center/LFE connector to attach your subwoofer.

keyboard connector

If you have a standard keyboard, plug it into the purple keyboard connector. If you
have a USB keyboard, plug it into a USB connector.

serial connector

Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port.

On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

Front-Panel Door and Hinge Arms
To prevent damage to your computer, the front-panel door is designed to "break away" if it is lifted
up too far. If the front-panel door is open and it is pushed inward too hard, the hinge arms may also
break away (the hinge arms are loose when they are detached).

Reattaching the Hinge Arms
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Disconnect the computer power cable from the electrical outlet.

Remove the front-panel door by gently snapping it off the two hinge arms.

Removing and Installing Parts

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Remove the front-panel insert above the door bay area by pulling the bottom of the insert
with your fingers.
front-panel
insert

use fingers
to pull here

Lift both hinge arms to the horizontal position.

Use the two view slots to align the pivot bar with the two pivot-bar slots.

Removing and Installing Parts

view slots (2)

pivot-bar slots (2)
pivot bar

hinge arms (2)
in horizontal
position

NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted
metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an
unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.
7

Pull the arms toward you until they snap into position.
If the hinge arms do not snap back into position on the first attempt, slightly reposition the
arms and try again.

After the hinge arms snap into position, lower and raise the arms two or three times to
properly seat them.

Reattach the front-panel insert.

Reconnect the computer power cable to the electrical outlet.

Reattach the front door (see page 68).

Removing and Installing Parts

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Reattaching the Front Door
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Disconnect the computer power cable from the electrical outlet.

Lower the hinge arms to the vertical position.

Align the two clips on the inside of the front door with the two hinge arms.

Press inward on the front door until it clips to both hinge arms.
front-door
clips (2)

hinge arms (2)
in vertical
position
frontpanel door

Removing and Installing Parts

Opening the Computer Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.
NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the open cover—at least 30 cm (1 ft) of desk top
space.

Lay the computer on its side so that the arrow on the bottom of the computer points up.

Open the cover:
a

Facing the back of the computer, press the release button on the right side of the
computer with one hand while pulling up on the top of the cover with the other hand.

Press the release button on the left side of the computer with one hand while pulling up
on the top of the cover with the other hand.

Hold the bottom of the computer with one hand, and then pull open the cover with the
other hand.
release
button

arrow

back of computer
release button

Removing and Installing Parts

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Inside Your Computer
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.
floppy drive*
hard drive
CD/DVD drive

power supply

system board
* On computers with
a floppy drive.

Removing and Installing Parts

heat sink and blower assembly

System Board Components
SATA connectors (SATA-O,
SATA-1, SATA-2, SATA-3)

password
jumper (PASS)

IDE drive connector (PRI IDE)

hard-drive activity light for add-in
cards (SCSI LED)
front-panel connector (FRONT
PANEL)

floppy drive
connector (FLOPPY)

internal speaker (SPKR)

standby power
light (AUX_PWR)

card fan connector
(PCI FAN)
clear CMOS jumper
(CLR CMOS)

main power
connector (POWER)
memory module
connectors (1, 2, 3, 4)

battery socket
(BATTERY)

processor fan
connector (CPU FAN)

PCI Express x16 card
connector

front panel audio
(FP AUD)

processor and
heat-sink connector

PCI Express x1 card
connector

PCI card connectors
(PCI SLOT 1, PCI SLOT
2, PCI SLOT 3)
processor power connector (12V PWR)
telephony connector
(TELEPHONY)
back of computer

Removing and Installing Parts

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Memory
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board.
Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For additional information on the type of memory
supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 107.

DDR2 Memory Overview
DDR2 memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology.
If the DDR2 memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to
operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. See the label on the upper-right corner of the
module to determine the module’s capacity.

NOTE: Always install DDR2 memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.
The recommended memory configurations are:
–

A pair of matched memory modules installed in DIMM connectors 1 and 2

or
–

A pair of matched memory modules installed in DIMM connectors 1 and 2 and another
matched pair installed in DIMM connectors 3 and 4

NOTICE: Do not install ECC memory modules.

•

If you install mixed pairs of DDR2 400-MHz (PC2-3200) and DDR2 533-MHz (PC2-4200)
memory, the modules function at the slowest speed installed.

•

Be sure to install a single memory module in DIMM connector 1, the connector closest to the
processor, before you install modules in the other connectors.

Removing and Installing Parts

matched pair of memory modules in
DIMM connectors 1 and 2 (white
securing clips)

matched pair of memory modules
in DIMM connectors 3 and 4
(black securing clips)

NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.
NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade,
keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules
from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your
computer may not start properly. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in DIMM
connectors 1 and 2 or DIMM connectors 3 and 4.

Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations
Your computer supports a maximum of 4 GB of memory when you use four 1-GB DIMMs. Current
operating systems, such as Microsoft® Windows® XP, can only use a maximum of 4 GB of address
space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is less than 4 GB. Certain
components within the computer require address space in the 4-GB range. Any address space
reserved for these components cannot be used by computer memory.

Installing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the
computer.

Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

Removing and Installing Parts

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memory connector closest to processor

securing clips (2)

connector

Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.
notch
memory module
cutouts (2)

crossbar

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector
while you apply equal force to each end of the module.
5

Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the
module.

Removing and Installing Parts

Close the computer cover.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

Right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties.

Click the General tab.

To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.

Removing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

Grasp the module and pull up.
If the module is difficult to remove, gently ease the module back and forth to remove it from
the connector.

Cards
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Removing and Installing Parts

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Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards:
•

Three PCI card slots

•

One PCI Express x16 card slot

•

One PCI Express x1 card slot

PCI Cards

If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are
removing but not replacing a PCI card, see "Removing a PCI Card" on page 80.
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, see "Installing a PCI Express Card" on page 81.
Installing a PCI Card

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm.

Removing and Installing Parts

lever

PCI card

retention
arm
edge
connector

filler
bracket

card
connector

If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then
continue with step 5.

If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners,
and ease it out of its connector.

Prepare the card for installation.
See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card,
making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.
CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a
network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet
before installing any cards.

Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in
the slot.

Removing and Installing Parts

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not fully
seated card
fully seated
card

bracket
within slot

bracket caught
outside of slot

Before you lower the retention arm, ensure that:
•

The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.

•

The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

Press the retention arm into place, securing the card(s) in the computer.

Removing and Installing Parts

retention arm
alignment guide

alignment bar

filler bracket

NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent
the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.
9

Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
See the documentation for the card for information about the card’s cable connections.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.

Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then
turn them on.

If you installed a sound card:
a

Enter system setup (see page 111), select Audio Controller, and then change the setting
to Off.

Connect external audio devices to the sound card’s connectors. Do not connect external
audio devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back
panel.

Removing and Installing Parts

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If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network
adapter:
a

Enter system setup (see page 111), select Network Controller, and then change the
setting to Off.

Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter’s connectors. Do not connect
the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel.

Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.

Removing a PCI Card
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm.

If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card.

Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.

If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot
opening.
If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see page 123).
NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification
of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.

Lower the retention arm and press it into place, securing the card(s) in the computer.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.

Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then
turn them on.

Remove the card’s driver from the operating system.

If you removed a sound card:

Enter system setup (see page 111), select Audio Controller, and then change the setting
to On.

Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the
computer.

If you removed an add-in network connector:
a

Enter system setup (see page 111), select Network Controller, and then change the
setting to On.

Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the
computer.

Removing and Installing Parts

PCI Express Cards
Your computer supports one PCI Express x16 card and one PCI Express x1 card.
NOTICE: PCI Express graphics card that run higher than 75 W require an additional cooling fan.
Otherwise, your card could overheat and damage your computer.
If a card fan is not present in your computer and you are installing a graphics card that runs at 75 W
or higher, contact Dell (see page 123) to find out how to purchase a card fan.
PCI Express
x16 card

PCI Express
x1 card

PCI Express
x1 card slot

PCI Express
x16 card slot

If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, follow the procedures in the next section. If
you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing a PCI Express Card" on page 85.
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
If you are installing or replacing a PCI card, see "Installing a PCI Card" on page 76.
Installing a PCI Express Card
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm.

Removing and Installing Parts

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top of retention
mechanism

tab
lever
retention
arm

x16 card

securing slot
securing tab
edge connector

filler bracket
card connector

x1 card

edge connector

card connector

Removing and Installing Parts

If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then
continue with step 5.

If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. If your card includes a retention
mechanism, remove the top of the retention mechanism by pressing the tab and pulling up
on the top. Gently pull the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out
of its connector.

If you are installing the card into the x16 card connector, position the card so the securing slot
is aligned with the securing tab, and gently pull the securing tab.

Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in
the slot.
not fully
seated card
fully seated
card

bracket
within slot

bracket caught
outside of slot

If you replaced a card that was already installed in the computer and you removed the top of
the retention mechanism, you may reinstall the top.

Removing and Installing Parts

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Before you lower the retention arm, ensure that:
•

The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.

•

The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

Press the retention arm into place, securing the card(s) in the computer.
retention arm
alignment guide

alignment bar

filler bracket

NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent
the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.
If a card fan is not present in your computer and you are installing a graphics card that runs higher
than 75 W, contact Dell (see page 123) to find out how to purchase a card fan.
11

If you installed a PCI Express graphics card that runs at 75 W or higher, install the card fan
(see page 86).

Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
See the documentation that came with the card for information about the card’s cable
connections.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.

Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then
turn them on.

Removing and Installing Parts

If you installed a sound card:
a

Enter system setup (see page 111), select Audio Controller, and then change the setting
to Off.

Connect external audio devices to the sound card’s connectors. Do not connect external
audio devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back
panel.

If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network
adapter:
a

Enter system setup (see page 111), select Network Controller, and then change the
setting to Off.

Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter’s connectors. Do not connect
the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel.

Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.

Removing a PCI Express Card
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm.

If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card.

If your card includes a retention mechanism, remove the top of the retention mechanism by
pressing the tab and pulling up on the top.

Gently pull back the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out of its
connector.

Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then
turn them on.

Remove the card’s driver from the operating system.

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If you removed a sound card:
a

Enter system setup (see page 111), select Audio Controller, and then change the setting
to On.

Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the
computer.

If you removed an add-in network connector:
a

Enter system setup (see page 111), select Network Controller, and then change the
setting to On.

Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the
computer.

Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.

Card Fan
NOTICE: PCI Express graphics card that run higher than 75 W require an additional cooling fan.
Otherwise, your card could overheat and damage your computer.
If a card fan is not present in your computer and you are installing a graphics card that runs at 75 W
or higher, contact Dell (see page 123) to find out how to purchase a card fan.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

If spare drive rails are installed on the inside of the computer cover, remove them by gently
pulling the rails up and out.

Removing and Installing Parts

card fan bracket

top edge of card fan bracket

hooks on inside of
computer cover

Slide the card fan bracket onto the hooks on the inside of the computer cover.

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Press the top edge of the card fan bracket toward the computer cover until it clicks.

card fan bracket

top edge of
card fan bracket

cabling slot

card fan cable

card fan connector
on system board
5

Route the card fan cable through the cabling slots.

Plug the card fan cable into the card fan connector (PCI FAN) on the system board (see
page 71).

If you removed drive rails in step 2, you may attach them to the side of the card fan bracket
for convenient storage.

Close the computer cover (see page 104).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Removing and Installing Parts

Drives
Your computer supports a combination of these devices:
•

Up to two hard drives

•

One optional floppy drive

•

One optional Zip drive

•

Up to two CD or DVD drives

General Installation Guidelines
Connect serial ATA hard drives to the system board connectors labeled SATA-0, SATA-1, SATA-2,
or SATA-3. Connect CD/DVD drives to the connector labeled PRI IDE.
When you connect two IDE devices to a single IDE interface cable and configure them for the
cable select setting, the device attached to the last connector on the interface cable is the primary
or the boot device (drive 0), and the device attached to the middle connector on the interface cable
is the secondary device (drive 1). See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information
on configuring devices for the cable select setting.

Connecting Drive Cables
When you install a drive, you connect two cables—a DC power cable and a data cable—to the back
of the drive and to the system board. Some drives may also have an audio connector; one end of the
audio cable attaches to the drive connector and the other end attaches to the system board.
Drive Interface Connectors
Serial ATA Connector

interface cable

interface connector

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Most interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one
connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector.
When you connect an IDE cable, ensure that you align the colored stripe with the pin 1 connector.
When you disconnect an IDE cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector
detaches.
When you connect and disconnect a serial ATA cable, hold the cable by the connector at each end.
NOTE: The system board serial ATA connector may have an attached cover or shroud.
Power Cable Connector
power input
connector

power cable

Hard Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a
surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.

If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data you want to keep, back up your files before
you begin to remove the hard drive.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Removing and Installing Parts

Removing a Hard Drive
1

Disconnect the power and data cable from the drive and from the system board.

Press in on the tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out.

tabs (2)

hard drive

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Installing a Hard Drive
1

Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation.

Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

If your replacement hard drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from
the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive. Attach the bracket
rails to the new drive by aligning the screw holes on the drive with the screw holes on the
bracket rails and then inserting and tightening all four screws (two screws on each rail).

drive

bracket rails (2)

screws (4)

Install the hard drive into the computer by gently sliding the drive into place until you hear it
securely click.

Connect the power and data cable to the drive and to the system board (see page 71).

Removing and Installing Parts

Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.

Close the computer cover (see page 104).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software
required for drive operation.

If the drive you just installed is the primary drive, insert a bootable floppy disk into drive A.

Turn on the computer.

Enter system setup (see page 111), and update the appropriate Drive option.

Exit system setup, and restart the computer.

Partition and logically format your drive before you proceed to the next step.
See the documentation for your operating system for instructions.

Test the hard drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 52).

If the drive you just installed is the primary drive, install your operating system on the hard
drive.

Adding a Second Hard Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a
surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
1

Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Remove the two plastic rails from the inside of the hard-drive bay by gently pulling the rails
up and out of the bay.

Attach the rails to the hard drive using the two screws attached to the rails.
Ensure that the rail tabs are positioned at the back of the hard drive.
NOTICE: Do not install any drive into the lower hard-drive bay until you have removed the green drive
rails from the inside of the hard-drive bay.

Remove the first hard drive from the upper bay and install it in the lower bay:
a

Disconnect the power and the data cable from the back of the first hard drive.

Press in the two rail tabs and pull the first hard drive out of the upper bay.
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Gently slide the first hard drive into the lower bay until you hear a click.

Reconnect the power and data cable to the back of the first hard drive.

Gently slide the new hard drive into the upper bay until you hear a click.

rail tabs (2)
second hard drive in
upper bay
first hard drive in
lower bay

hard drive bay

Connect a power cable to the drive.

Connect the data cable to the drive and to the system board (see page 71).

Close the computer cover (see page 104).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software
required for drive operation.

Front-Panel Inserts
If you are installing a new floppy or CD/DVD drive instead of replacing a drive, remove the frontpanel inserts.

Open the cover to a 90-degree angle.

Locate the insert that is in front of the drive bay that you want to use.

From inside the computer, press in the release tab of the insert.

Removing and Installing Parts

insert release tab

From the outside of the computer, pull the insert away from the computer’s front panel.

Remove the insert from the insert frame by pressing on the four tabs.

Removing and Installing Parts

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insert frame for
floppy drive bay

insert frame for
CD/DVD drive bay
6

Reattach the empty insert frame over the front of the drive bay (the insert frame fits only one
way):
a

Face the front of the computer and slip the left side of the insert in to the left side of the
drive bay opening.

Slightly press the right-side insert release tab and gently push in the insert.

If you are adding a floppy drive and you purchased the drive from Dell, you received a front panel
insert in your floppy drive kit. Attach this insert over the front of the drive bay.
front-panel floppy drive insert
included in the floppy drive kit

floppy drive light

floppy drive eject button

If you are adding a floppy drive that was not purchased from Dell, reattach the empty insert frame
over the front of the drive bay.
96

Removing and Installing Parts

Floppy Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.
NOTE: If you are adding a floppy drive, see "Installing a Floppy Drive" on page 98.

Removing a Floppy Drive
1

Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive.

Disconnect the other end of the data cable from the system board.

power cable
data cable

Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive, slide the drive upward, and then
remove it from the floppy-drive bay.

Removing and Installing Parts

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Installing a Floppy Drive
1

If you are replacing a drive and the new drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove
the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive.
Attach the bracket to the new drive by aligning the screw holes on the drive with the screw
holes on the bracket rails and then inserting and tightening all four screws (two screws on
each rail).

drive

bracket rails (2)

screws (4)

Gently slide the drive into place until the tabs securely click into position.

Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive.

Connect the other end of the data cable to the connector labeled FLOPPY on the system
board (see page 71).

Removing and Installing Parts

If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front-panel
inserts (see page 94).

Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and
cooling vents.

Close the computer cover. (see page 104).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network device and then plug it in to
the computer.

9
10

Enter system setup (see page 111) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive option.
Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 52).

CD/DVD Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.

Removing and Installing Parts

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Removing a CD/DVD Drive
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the drive.
power cable
data cable

100

Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive, and then slide the drive upward and
remove it from the drive bay.

Removing and Installing Parts

Installing a CD/DVD Drive
1

If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.
Check the documentation that accompanied the drive to verify that the drive is configured
for your computer. If you are installing an IDE drive, configure the drive for the cable select
setting.

Connect the new drive to the set of rails that are attached to the inside of the cover. If a set of
rails is not attached inside the cover, contact Dell (see page 123).

If you are installing a replacement drive and the new drive does not have the bracket rails
attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail
to the drive. Attach the bracket to the new drive by aligning the screw holes on the drive with
the screw holes on the bracket rails and then inserting and tightening all four screws (two
screws on each rail).

Removing and Installing Parts

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drive

bracket rails (2)

screws (4)

Gently slide the drive into place until the tabs securely click into position.

Connect the power and data cables to the drive.

power cable
data cable

102

If you are installing a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the frontpanel inserts (see page 94).

Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and
cooling vents.

Removing and Installing Parts

Close the computer cover (see page 104).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network device and then plug it in to
the computer.

Enter system setup (see page 111) and select the appropriate Drive option.

Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 52).

Battery
Replacing the Battery
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
A coin-cell battery maintains computer configuration, date, and time information. The battery can
last several years.
If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, replace
the battery.
CAUTION: A new battery can explode if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the battery only with the
same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
To replace the battery:
1

Record all the screens in system setup (see page 111) so that you can restore the correct
settings in step 8.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Locate the battery socket (see page 71).
NOTICE: If you pry the battery out of its socket with a blunt object, be careful not to touch the system
board with the object. Ensure that the object is inserted between the battery and the socket before you
attempt to pry out the battery. Otherwise, you may damage the system board by prying off the socket or
by breaking circuit traces on the system board.

Remove the battery by carefully prying it out of its socket with your fingers or with a blunt,
nonconducting object such as a plastic screwdriver.

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Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up, and snap the
battery into place.

battery

battery socket

tab

Close the computer cover (see page 104).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

Enter system setup (see page 111) and restore the settings you recorded in step 1.

Properly dispose of the old battery. See the Product Information Guide for battery disposal
information.

Closing the Computer Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
1

Ensure that all cables are connected, and fold cables out of the way.
Gently pull the power cables toward you so that they do not get caught underneath the drives.

104

Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer.

Close the cover:
a

Pivot the cover down.

Press down on the right side of the cover until it closes.

Press down on the left side of the cover until it closes.

Ensure that both sides of the cover are locked. If not, repeat all of step 3.

Removing and Installing Parts

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.
4

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

Removing and Installing Parts

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106

Removing and Installing Parts

Appendix
Specifications
Processor
Processor type

Intel® Pentium® 4 with HT Technology
NOTE: Not all Pentium 4 processors support Hyper-Threading
technology.

Cache

512 KB, 1 MB, or 2 MB

Memory
Type

400- and 533-MHz DDR2 unbuffered SDRAM

Memory connectors

four

Memory capacities

256 MB, 512 MB, or 1 GB, non-ECC

Minimum memory

256 MB

Maximum memory

4 GB

NOTE: See "Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations" on
page 73 to verify the amount of memory available to the operating
system.
BIOS address

F0000h

Computer Information
Chipset

Intel 925X Express or Intel 925XE Express

DMA channels

eight

Interrupt levels

BIOS chip (NVRAM)

4-Mb

NIC

Integrated network interface capable of 10/100/1000
communication.

System clock

800- or 1066-MHz data rate (depending on your processor)

Video
Type

PCI Express

Appendix

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Audio
Type

ADI 1980 AC97 Codec

NOTE: This audio type is present only on computers with integrated
sound capabilities.
Expansion Bus
Bus type
Bus speed

PCI 2.3
PCI Express x1 and x16
PCI: 33 MHz
PCI Express:
x1 slot bidirectional speed - 500 MB/s
x16 slot bidirectional speed - 8 GB/s

PCI
connectors

three

connector size

120 pins

connector data width (maximum)

32 bits

PCI Express
connector

one x1

connector size

36 pins

connector data width (maximum)

1 PCI Express lane

PCI Express

108

connector

one x16

connector size

164 pins

connector data width (maximum)

16 PCI Express lanes

Appendix

Drives
Externally accessible:
two 3.5-inch drive bays
two 5.25-inch drive bays
Available devices

Serial ATA drive, floppy drive, Zip drive, USB memory devices, CD
drive, CD-RW drive, DVD drive, DVD-RW drive, and DVD and
CD-RW combo drive

Internally accessible:
two bays for 1-inch high hard drives
Connectors
External connectors:
Serial

9-pin connector; 16550C-compatible

Parallel

25-hole connector (bidirectional)

Video

15-hole connector

Network adapter

RJ45 connector

PS/2 (keyboard and mouse)

two 6-pin mini-DIN connectors

USB

two front-panel and six back-panel USB 2.0–compliant connectors

Audio

five connectors for line-in, line-out, microphone, surround, and
center/Low Frequency Effects (LFE) channel; one front-panel
connector for headphones

System board connectors:
Primary IDE drive

40-pin connector on PCI local bus

Serial ATA

four 7-pin connectors

Floppy drive

34-pin connector

Fan

two 5-pin connectors

PCI 2.3

120-pin connector

PCI Express x1

36-pin connector

PCI Express x16

164-pin connector

Telephony (TAPI)

4-pin connector

Appendix

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Controls and Lights
Power control

push button

Power light

green light — Blinking green in sleep state; solid green for power-on
state.
amber light — Blinking amber indicates a problem with an installed
device; solid amber indicates an internal power problem (see "Power
Problems" on page 42).

Hard-drive access light

green

Link integrity light (on integrated
network adapter)

green light — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps
network and the computer.
orange light — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps
network and the computer.
yellow light — A good connection exists between a 1 Gb (or
1000-Mbps) connection.
off (no light) — The computer is not detecting a physical
connection to the network.

Activity light (on integrated network
adapter)

yellow blinking light

Diagnostic lights

four lights on the back panel (See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 49.)

Standby power light

AUX_PWR on the system board

Power
DC power supply:
Wattage

350 W

Heat dissipation

460.7 BTU/hr

Voltage (see the safety instructions
located in the Product Information
Guide for important voltage setting
information)

fixed-voltage power supply — 110 V at 50/60 Hz

Backup battery

manual selection and auto-sensing power supplies — 90 to 135 V at
50/60 Hz; 180 to 265 V at 50/60 Hz; 100 V at 50/60 Hz for Japanese
computers
3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell

Physical

110

Height

42.5 cm (16.7 inches)

Width

18.1 cm (7.1 inches)

Depth

44.7 cm (17.6 inches)

Weight

12.7 kg (28 lbs)

Appendix

Environmental
Temperature:
Operating

10° to 35°C (50° to 95°F)

NOTE: At 35°C (95°F), the maximum operating altitude is 914 m
(3000 ft).
Storage
Relative humidity

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
20% to 80% (noncondensing)

Maximum vibration:
Operating

0.25 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 0.5 octave/min

Storage

0.5 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1 octave/min

Maximum shock:
Operating

bottom half-sine pulse with a change in velocity of 20 inches/sec
(50.8 cm/sec)

Storage

27-G faired square wave with a velocity change of 200 inches/sec
(508 cm/sec)

Altitude:
Operating

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

Storage

–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

System Setup
Overview
Use system setup as follows:
•

To change the system configuration information after you add, change, or remove any
hardware in your computer

•

To set or change a user-selectable option such as the user password

•

To read the current amount of memory or set the type of hard drive installed

Before you use system setup, it is recommended that you write down the system setup screen
information for future reference.
NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings for this program. Certain
changes can make your computer work incorrectly.

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Entering System Setup
1

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the blue DELL™ logo appears, press immediately.
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 (see page 59) and try again.

System Setup Screens

The system setup screen displays current or changeable configuration information for your
computer. Information on the screen is divided into three areas: the options list, active options
field, and key functions.
Options List — This
field appears on the left
side of the system setup
window. The field is a
scrollable list containing
features that define the
configuration of your
computer, including
installed hardware,
power conservation, and
security features.

Option Field — This field contains information about each
option. In this field you can view your current settings and
make changes to your settings.
Use the right and left arrow keys to highlight an option. Press
to make that selection active.

Scroll up and down the
list with the up- and
down-arrow keys. As an
option is highlighted, the
Option Field displays
more information about Key Functions — This field appears below the Option Field
and lists keys and their functions within the active system
that option and the
setup field.
option’s current and
available settings.

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System Setup Options
NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not
appear, or may not appear exactly as listed.
System
System Info

Lists system information such as the computer name, the BIOS version
number and date, system tags, and other system-specific information.

CPU Info

Identifies whether the computer’s processor supports Hyper-Threading and
lists the processor bus speed, processor ID, clock speed, and L2 cache.

Memory Info

Indicates amount of installed memory, memory speed, channel mode (dual
or single), and type of memory installed.

Date/Time

Displays current date and time settings.

Boot Sequence

The computer attempts to boot from the sequence of devices specified in
this list.
NOTE: If you insert a boot device and restart the computer, this option appears
in the system setup menu. To boot from a USB memory device, select the USB
device and move it so it becomes the first device in the list.

Drives
Diskette Drive

Identifies and defines the floppy drive attached to the FLOPPY connector
on the system board as Off, USB, Internal, or Read Only.

Drives 0 through
5

Identifies the drives attached to the SATA or PRI IDE connectors on the
system board, and lists the capacity for hard drives.

Drive Controller

Identifies and defines the SATA controller settings for RAID. You can set
the SATA controller to RAID Autodetect/AHCI, RAID Autodetect/ATA, or
RAID On.

Onboard Devices
NIC Controller

You can set the NIC to On (default), Off, or On w/ PXE. When the On w/
PXE setting is active (available only for the future boot process), the
computer prompts the user to press . Pressing this key
combination causes a menu to display that allows you to select a method for
booting from a network server. If a boot routine is not available from the
network server, the computer attempts to boot from the next device in the
boot sequence list.

Audio Controller

Enables or disables the onboard audio controller.

USB

Set to On (default) so that USB devices will be detected and supported in
the operating system.

Mouse Port

Enables or disables the onboard PS/2-compatible mouse controller.

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LPT Port Mode

Identifies and defines the parallel port settings. You can set the parallel port
to Off, AT, PS/2, EPP, or ECP.

LPT Port Address

Identifies the address for the parallel port.

LPT Port DMA

Identifies and defines the parallel port DMA settings. You can set the
parallel port DMA to Off, DMA1, or DMA3.

Serial Port #1

Identifies and defines the serial port settings. Auto, the default setting,
automatically configures a connector to a particular designation (COM1 or
COM3).

Video
Primary Video

This setting specifies which video controller is primary when two video
controllers are present on the computer.

Performance
HyperThreading

If your computer’s processor supports Hyper-Threading, this option appears
in the Options List.

Performance

• Bypass — Your computer does not test or change the current acoustics
mode setting.
• Quiet (default) — The hard drive operates at its most quiet setting.
• Suggested — The hard drive operates at the level suggested by the drive
manufacturer.
• Performance — The hard drive operates at its maximum speed.
NOTE: Switching to performance mode may cause the drive to be noisier, but
its performance is not affected.
NOTE: Changing the acoustics setting does not alter your hard drive image.

Security

This section displays available system security options.

Admin Password

This option provides restricted access to the computer's system setup
program in the same way that access to the system can be restricted with the
System Password option.

System Password

Displays the current status of the system's password security feature and
allows a new system password to be assigned and verified.

Password Status

This option locks the system password field with the setup password. When
the field is locked, you can no longer disable password security by pressing
when the computer starts.

Power Management
AC Recovery

114

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Determines what happens when AC power is restored to the computer.

Auto Power On

Sets the computer to automatically turn on. Choices
are every day or every Monday through Friday.
The default setting is Off.
This feature does not work if you turn off your
computer using a power strip or surge protector.

Auto Power Time

Sets time to automatically turn on the computer.
Time is kept in a 24-hour format (hours:minutes). Change the start-up time
by pressing the right- or left-arrow key to increase or decrease the numbers,
or type numbers in both the date and time fields.
This feature does not work if you turn off your computer using a power strip
or surge protector.

Low Power Mode

When Low Power Mode is selected, remote wakeup events no longer power
up from Hibernate or Off.

Remote Wake Up

This option allows the computer to power up when a NIC or Remote
Wakeup-capable modem receives a wake up signal.
On is the default setting. On w/ Boot to NIC allows the computer to
attempt to boot from a network prior to using the boot sequence.
NOTE: Normally, the system can be powered up remotely from suspend mode,
hibernate mode, or when powered off. When Low Power Mode (in the Power
Management menu) is enabled, the computer can only be powered up
remotely from Suspend.

Suspend Mode

The options are S1, a suspend state where the computer is running in a lowpower mode, and S3, a standby state where the power is reduced or turned
off for most components, however, system memory remains active.

Maintenance
CMOS Defaults

This setting restores the computer’s factory-installed default settings.

Event Log

Displays the system event log.

BIOS Update

After downloading a new version of the BIOS, use this option to identify
and define the location of the BIOS update file. The options are Diskette or
Disk.

POST Behavior
Fastboot

When set to On (default), your computer starts more quickly because it
skips certain configurations and tests.

Numlock Key

This option involves the rightmost bank of keys on your keyboard. When set
to On (default), this option activates the numeric and mathematical
features shown at the top of each key. When set to Off, this option activates
the cursor-control functions labeled on the bottom of each key.

OS Install

This setting turns the OS Install Mode either On or Off (default).

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POST Hotkeys

This option allows you to specify the function keys to display on the screen
when the computer starts.

Keyboard Errors

This option disables or enables keyboard error reporting when the computer
starts.

Boot Sequence
This feature allows you to change the boot sequence for devices.
Option Settings

•

Diskette Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the floppy drive. If the floppy disk in
the drive is not bootable, if no floppy disk is in the drive, or if there is no floppy drive installed
in the computer, the computer generates an error message.

•

Hard Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the primary hard drive. If no operating
system is on the drive, the computer generates an error message.

•

CD Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the CD drive. If no CD is in the drive, or
if the CD has no operating system, the computer generates an error message.

•

USB Flash Device — Insert the memory device into a USB port and restart the computer.
When F12 = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press . The
BIOS detects the device and adds the USB flash option to the boot menu.
NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To make sure that your device is bootable,
check the device documentation.

Changing Boot Sequence for the Current Boot

You can use this feature, for example, to restart your computer to a USB device such as a floppy
drive, memory key, or CD-RW drive.
NOTE: If you are booting to a USB floppy drive, you must first set the floppy drive to OFF in system setup
(see page 111).
1

If you are booting to a USB device, connect the USB device to a USB connector (see page 61).

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When F2 = Setup, F12 = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right corner of the screen,
press .
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 (see page 59) and try again.
The Boot Device Menu appears, listing all available boot devices. Each device has a number
next to it.

116

Appendix

At the bottom of the menu, enter the number of the device that is to be used for the current
boot only.
For example, if you are booting to a USB memory key, highlight USB Flash Device and press
.
NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To make sure your device is bootable,
check the device documentation.

Changing Boot Sequence for Future Boots
1

Enter system setup (see page 112).

Use the arrow keys to highlight the Boot Sequence menu option and press to access
the menu.
NOTE: Write down your current boot sequence in case you want to restore it.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to move through the list of devices.

Press the spacebar to enable or disable a device (enabled devices have a checkmark).

Press plus (+) or minus (–) to move a selected device up or down the list.

Clearing Forgotten Passwords
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

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PASS

CLR CMOS
(page 119)
2

Locate the 3-pin password jumper (PASS) on the system board (see page 71), and attach the
jumper plug to pins 2 and 3 to clear the password.
NOTE: When you receive your computer, the jumper plug is attached to pins 1 and 2.

Close the computer cover (see page 104).

Connect your computer and monitor to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

After the Microsoft® Windows® desktop appears on your computer, shut down the computer
(see page 59).

Turn off the monitor and disconnect it from the electrical outlet.

Disconnect the computer power cable from the electrical outlet, and press the power button
to ground the system board.

Open the computer cover (see page 69).

Locate the 3-pin password jumper (PASS) on the system board (see page 71) and attach the
jumper to pins 1 and 2 to reenable the password feature.

Close the computer cover (see page 104).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.

118

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

Appendix

Clearing CMOS Settings
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Reset the current CMOS settings:

Locate the 3-pin CMOS jumper (CLR CMOS) on the system board (see page 71).

Remove the jumper plug from pins 2 and 3.

Place the jumper plug on pins 1 and 2 and wait approximately 5 seconds.

Replace the jumper plug on pins 2 and 3.

Close the computer cover (see page 104).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into
the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

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 Monitor
CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean
your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may
contain flammable substances.
•

Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust from the slots and holes
on your computer and from between the keys on the keyboard.
NOTICE: Do not wipe the display screen with any soap or alcohol solution. Doing so may damage the
antiglare coating.

•

To clean your monitor screen, lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth with water. If possible, use a
special screen-cleaning tissue or solution suitable for the monitor’s antistatic coating.

•

Wipe the keyboard, computer, and plastic part of the monitor with a soft cleaning cloth
moistened with a solution of three parts water and one part dishwashing detergent.
Do not soak the cloth or let water drip inside your computer or keyboard.

Mouse
If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse. To clean a non-optical mouse:
1

Turn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counterclockwise, and then remove
the ball.
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Wipe the ball with a clean, lint-free cloth.

Blow carefully into the ball cage to dislodge dust and lint.

If the rollers inside the ball cage are dirty, clean the rollers with a cotton swab moistened
lightly with isopropyl alcohol.

Recenter the rollers in their channels if they are misaligned. Ensure that fluff from the swab is
not left on the rollers.

Replace the ball and retainer ring, and turn the retainer ring clockwise until it clicks into
place.

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
floppy disks 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. 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 prevent damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.

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 safe to use on DVDs.

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.

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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.
1
2

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).
Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dell-branded module bay or PC
Card 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.

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as
Class B digital devices. To determine which classification applies to your computer system,
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 system 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 system is
considered to be a Class B digital device.
Once you have determined your system’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.

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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.

FCC Identification Information
The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in
compliance with FCC regulations:
•

Model number: DHM
Company name:
Dell Inc.
One Dell Way
Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA
512-338-4400

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Appendix

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.
When you need to contact Dell, use the electronic addresses, telephone numbers, and codes
provided in the following table. If you need assistance in determining which codes to use, contact a
local or an international operator.

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Anguilla

General Support

toll-free: 800-335-0031

Antigua and Barbuda

General Support

1-800-805-5924

Argentina (Buenos Aires)

Website: www.dell.com.ar

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:
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

0-810-444-3355
toll-free: 800-1578

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Australia (Sydney)

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com

International Access Code: 0011 E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com
Country Code: 61

Home and Small Business

1-300-655-533

City Code: 2

Government and Business

toll-free: 1-800-633-559

Preferred Accounts Division (PAD)

toll-free: 1-800-060-889

Customer Care

toll-free: 1-800-819-339

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

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

Home/Small Business Technical Support

0820 240 530 14

Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support
Switchboard

0660 8779
0820 240 530 00

Bahamas

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6818

Barbados

General Support

1-800-534-3066

Belgium (Brussels)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 32

E-mail for French Speaking Customers:
support.euro.dell.com/be/fr/emaildell/

City Code: 2

Technical Support

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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

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

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

City Code: 51

Customer Care Fax

Bermuda

Sales

0800 90 3355
51 481 5470
51 481 5480
0800 90 3390
toll-free: 1-866-278-6820

British Virgin Islands

General Support

Brunei

Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4966

Country Code: 673

Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4949

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

Sales (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5752

Sales (med./large bus., government)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5755

Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales

1 866 440 3355

Cayman Islands

General Support

1-800-805-7541

Chile (Santiago)

Sales, Customer Support, and Technical Support

toll-free: 1230-020-4823

Country Code: 56
City Code: 2

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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

818 1350

Technical Support (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, printers,
switches, routers, and so on)

toll-free: 800 858 2920

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

126

Appendix

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:
http://support.euro.dell.com/dk/da/emaildell/

Country Code: 45

Technical Support

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
toll-free: 1-866-278-6821

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: http://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

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

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

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

City Code: 6103

Home/Small Business Customer Care

128

Appendix

06103 766-7200
0180-5-224400

Global Segment Customer Care

06103 766-9570

Preferred Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9420

Large Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9560

Public Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9555

Switchboard

06103 766-7000

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
toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

Grenada

General Support

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
2969 3105

Home and Small Business Division
India

Technical Support

1600 33 8045

Sales (Large Corporate Accounts)

1600 33 8044

Sales (Home and Small Business)

1600 33 8046

Appendix

129

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Ireland (Cherrywood)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 16

E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com

Country Code: 353

Technical Support

City Code: 1

U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only)
Home User Customer Care
Small Business Customer Care
U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)
Corporate Customer Care
Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)
Ireland Sales
U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only)

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

1850 543 543
0870 908 0800
01 204 4014
01 204 4014
0870 906 0010
1850 200 982
0870 907 4499
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

130

General Support (dial from within Jamaica only)

Appendix

02 577 821
1-800-682-3639

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)

Technical Support

toll-free: 080-200-3800

International Access Code: 001

Sales

toll-free: 080-200-3600

Country Code: 82

Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)

City Code: 2

Fax

2194-6202

Switchboard

2194-6000

Technical Support (Electronics and Accessories)

604 633 4949

toll-free: 080-200-3801

Appendix

131

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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

E-mail: tech_be@dell.com

Country Code: 352

Technical Support (Brussels, Belgium)
Home/Small Business Sales (Brussels, Belgium)

3420808075
toll-free: 080016884

Corporate Sales (Brussels, Belgium)

02 481 91 00

Customer Care (Brussels, Belgium)

02 481 91 19

Fax (Brussels, Belgium)

02 481 92 99

Switchboard (Brussels, Belgium)

02 481 91 00
toll-free: 0800 105

Macao

Technical Support

Country Code: 853

Customer Service (Xiamen, China)

Malaysia (Penang)

Website: support.ap.dell.com

toll-free: 1 800 88 0193

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)

toll-free: 1 800 88 1306

Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China)

Country Code: 60
City Code: 4

Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)

Appendix

29 693 115

Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)
Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

132

34 160 910

toll-free: 1800 88 1386
04 633 4949

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 202

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 213

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Mexico

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Customer Technical Support

001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 52

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

50-81-8800

Sales

or 01-800-888-3355
Customer Service

001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383
50-81-8800

Main

or 01-800-888-3355
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

020 674 45 00

Country Code: 31

Technical Support Fax

020 674 47 66

City Code: 20

Home/Small Business Customer Care

020 674 42 00

Montserrat

Relational Customer Care

020 674 4325

Home/Small Business Sales

020 674 55 00

Relational Sales

020 674 50 00

Home/Small Business Sales Fax

020 674 47 75

Relational Sales Fax

020 674 47 50

Switchboard

020 674 50 00

Switchboard Fax

020 674 47 50

New Zealand

E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com

Country Code: 64

Technical Support (for desktop and portable
computers)

toll-free: 0800 446 255

Technical Support (for servers and workstations)

toll-free: 0800 443 563

Nicaragua

Home and Small Business

0800 446 255

Government and Business

0800 444 617

Sales

0800 441 567

Fax

0800 441 566

General Support

001-800-220-1006

Appendix

133

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Norway (Lysaker)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail:
http://support.euro.dell.com/no/no/emaildell/

Country Code: 47

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Technical Support

671 16882

Relational Customer Care

671 17575

Home/Small Business Customer Care

23162298

Switchboard

671 16800

Fax Switchboard

671 16865

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

Panama

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

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

134

Appendix

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

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 Service (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4949

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

02 5441 5727
420 22537 2707

Fax

02 5441 8328

Tech Fax

02 5441 8328

Switchboard (Sales)

02 5441 7585

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

Customer Technical Support, Customer Service,
and Sales (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4810

Southeast Asian and Pacific
Countries

Appendix

135

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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

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

Sweden (Upplands Vasby)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: http://support.euro.dell.com/se/sv/emaildell/

Country Code: 46

Technical Support

08 590 05 199

City Code: 8

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

136

Appendix

20 140 14 44

Technical Support Fax

Technical Support (Home and Small Business)

0844 811 411

Technical Support (Corporate)

0844 822 844

Customer Care (Home and Small Business)

0848 802 202

Customer Care (Corporate)

0848 821 721

Fax

022 799 01 90

Switchboard

022 799 01 01

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

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

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 00801 65 1228

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 00801 651 227

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

Country Code: 66

Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4949

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

Appendix

137

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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.K. (Bracknell)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Customer Care website: support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/Form/Home.asp

Country Code: 44
City Code: 1344

Uruguay

138

E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred
Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees])

0870 908 0500

Technical Support (direct and general)

0870 908 0800

Global Accounts Customer Care

01344 373 186

Home and Small Business Customer Care

0870 906 0010

Corporate Customer Care

01344 373 185

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

0870 907 4006

General Support

Appendix

toll-free: 000-413-598-2521

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

Consumer (Home and Home Office)
Technical Support

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: 1-800-822-8965

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: 1-800-234-1490

Dell Sales

toll-free: 1-800-289-3355
or toll-free: 1-800-879-3355

Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers)

toll-free: 1-888-798-7561

Software and Peripherals Sales

toll-free: 1-800-671-3355

Spare Parts Sales

toll-free: 1-800-357-3355

Extended Service and Warranty Sales

toll-free: 1-800-247-4618

Fax

toll-free: 1-800-727-8320

Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or
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

Appendix

139

140

Appendix

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Index
A
audio. See sound

B
battery
problems, 33
replacing, 103
BIOS, 111
boot sequence
about, 116
changing, 116-117
option settings, 116
booting
to a USB device, 116

C
card fan
installing, 86
problems, 33
cards
installing PCI, 76
installing PCI Express, 81
PCI, 76
PCI Express, 81
PCI Express card fan, 86
PCI Express slots, 64
PCI slots, 64
removing PCI, 80
removing PCI Express, 85

cards (continued)
slots, 64, 75
types supported, 75
CD/DVD drive
activity light, 61
eject button, 61
front-panel inserts, 94
installing, 101
problems, 34
removing, 100
CD-RW drive
problems, 35
CDs
copying, 17
playing, 15
Check Disk, 35
CMOS settings
clearing, 119
computer
components inside, 70
crashes, 38-39
inside view, 70
restore to previous operating
state, 56
stops responding, 38-39
connectors
center/LFE, 64-65
DVI, 64
headphone, 62
keyboard, 65
line-in, 64
line-out, 64-65

connectors (continued)
microphone, 64-65
modem, 64
mouse, 63
network adapter, 65
parallel, 63
power, 63
serial, 65
sound, 64-65
surround, 64
TV-OUT, 64
USB, 62, 65
VGA, 64
video, 64
copying CDs and DVDs, 17
cover
closing, 104
opening, 69

D
Dell
contacting, 123
Dell Diagnostics, 52
support policy, 119
support site, 10
diagnostic lights, 49
diagnostics
Dell, 52
lights, 49, 63
display. See monitor

Index

141

142

Index

documentation
End User License
Agreement, 9
ergonomics, 9
Finding Information, 9
online, 10
Product Information Guide, 9
regulatory, 9
safety, 9
Setup Diagram, 9
warranty, 9
door
front-panel, 62
hinge arms, 65
reattaching, 65
drivers
about, 54
identifying, 54
drives
front-panel inserts, 94
hard drive, 90
installing CD/DVD, 94, 101
installing floppy, 94, 98
installing hard drive, 92
problems, 34
RAID, 20
removing CD/DVD, 100
removing floppy, 97
removing hard drive, 91
second hard drive, 93
serial ATA, 90
DVD drive
problems, 34

DVDs
copying, 17
playing, 15
DVI
connector, 64

E
e-mail
problems, 35
End User License
Agreement, 9
ergonomics information, 9

Index

hard drive
activity light, 61
installing, 92
installing second, 93
problems, 35
removing, 91
hardware
Dell Diagnostics, 52
drives, RAID configuration, 20
Hardware Troubleshooter, 58
headphone
connector, 62

error messages
diagnostic lights, 49
troubleshooting, 36

Help and Support Center, 10

hibernate mode, 30-31

Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 28

help file
Windows Help and Support
Center, 10
Hyper-Threading, 31

Finding Information, 9

floppy drive
activity light, 61
eject button, 61
front-panel inserts, 94
installing, 98
removing, 97

IEEE 1394
problems, 37

front door
hinge arms, 65
reattaching, 65
front-panel
inserts, 94

142

installing parts
before you begin, 59
recommended tools, 59
turning off your computer, 59
Internet
connection, about, 13
connection, options, 13
connection, setting up, 14
problems, 35

K
keyboard
connector, 65
problems, 38

L
labels
Microsoft Windows, 10
Service Tag, 10, 62
lights
back of computer, 49
CD/DVD drive activity, 61
diagnostic, 49, 63
floppy drive activity, 61
hard drive activity, 61

M
memory
4-GB configurations, 73
DDR2 overview, 72
installation guidelines, 72
installing, 73
problems, 40
removing, 75
type supported, 72
messages
error, 36
microphone
connector, 64-65
Microsoft Windows label, 10
modem
connector, 64
problems, 35

monitor
blank, 46
clone mode, 20
connect DVI, 19-20
connect TV, 19-20
connect two, 19-20
connect VGA, 19-20
display settings, 20
extended desktop mode, 20
hard to read, 47
problems, 46

PC Restore, 57

motherboard. See system
board

power
button, 62
connector, 63
conserving, 29
hibernate mode, 30-31
managing, 29
options, 30
options, advanced, 31
options, hibernate, 31
options, schemes, 30
problems, 42
standby mode, 29

mouse
connector, 63
problems, 41

N
network
connector, 65
Network Setup Wizard, 29
problems, 42
setting up, 28
Network Setup Wizard, 29

O
operating system
reinstalling Windows XP, 56

P
password
clearing, 117
jumper, 117

PCI cards
installing, 76
removing, 80
PCI Express cards
card fan, 86
installing, 81
removing, 85
playing CDs, 15
playing DVDs, 15

power light
conditions, 42
Power Options Properties, 30
printer
cable, 11
connecting, 11
parallel, 12
problems, 43
setting up, 11
USB, 11
problems
battery, 33
blue screen, 39
card fan, 33

Index

143

144

Index

problems (continued)
CD drive, 34
CD-RW drive, 35
computer crashes, 38-39
computer stops
responding, 38-39
Dell Diagnostics, 52
diagnostic lights, 49
drives, 34
DVD drive, 34
e-mail, 35
error messages, 36
general, 38
hard drive, 35
IEEE 1394, 37
Internet, 35
keyboard, 38
memory, 40
modem, 35
monitor is blank, 46
monitor is hard to read, 47
mouse, 41
network, 42
power, 42
power light conditions, 42
printer, 43
program crashes, 39
program stops responding, 39
programs and Windows
compatibility, 39
restore to previous operating
state, 56
scanner, 44
screen is blank, 46
screen is hard to read, 47
software, 39-40
sound and speakers, 45
technical support policy, 119

144

Index

problems (continued)
troubleshooting tips, 33
video and monitor, 46
volume adjusting, 45
Product Information Guide, 9
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 39

R
RAID
configuring, 20
regulatory information, 9
reinstalling
Windows XP, 56

S
safety instructions, 9
SATA. See serial ATA
scanner
problems, 44
screen. See monitor
serial ATA, 90
Service Tag, 10, 62
settings
system setup, 111

sound connectors
about, 64
center/LFE, 65
line-in, 64
line-out, 65
surround, 64
speaker
problems, 45
volume, 45
specifications
audio, 108
computer information, 107
connectors, 109
controls and lights, 110
drives, 109
environmental, 111
expansion bus, 108
memory, 107
physical, 110
power, 110
processor, 107
technical, 107
video, 107
standby mode, 29
support
contacting Dell, 123
policy, 119
support.dell.com, 10
system board, 71

Setup Diagram, 9

System Restore, 56

software
Hyper-Threading, 31
problems, 39-40

system setup
about, 111
entering, 112
options, 113
screens, 112

sound
problems, 45
volume, 45

technical support
policy, 119

VGA
connector, 64

transferring information to a
new computer, 28

video
connector, 64
problems, 46

troubleshooting
Dell Diagnostics, 52
diagnostic lights, 49
Hardware Troubleshooter, 58
Help and Support Center, 10
restore to previous operating
state, 56
tips, 33
TV
connect to computer, 19-20,
64

U
USB
booting to devices, 116
connectors, 62, 65

wizards
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 28
Network Setup Wizard, 29
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 39

voltage selection switch, 63
volume
adjusting, 45

W
warranty information, 9
Windows XP
Device Driver Rollback, 55
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 28
Hardware Troubleshooter, 58
Help and Support Center, 10
Hyper-Threading, 31
Network Setup Wizard, 29
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 39
reinstalling, 56
scanner, 45
System Restore, 56

Index

145

146

Index

146

Index

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