Dell Optiplex Gx270 Users Manual Systems User's Guide

2014-11-13

: Dell Dell-Optiplex-Gx270-Users-Manual-111000 dell-optiplex-gx270-users-manual-111000 dell pdf

Open the PDF directly: View PDF .
Page Count: 178

Download
Open PDF In Browser	View PDF

Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

Documentation for Your Computer

Advanced Features

Finding Information for Your Computer
Technical Specifications
Cleaning Your Computer

LegacySelect Technology Control
Manageability
Security
Password Protection
System Setup
Booting to a USB Device
Jumper Settings
Power Button
Hyper-Threading
Power Management

Small Form-Factor Computer
About Your Computer
l
l
l
l
l

Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand

Adding and Removing Parts
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l

Opening the Computer Cover
AGP and DVI Adapter Cards
Battery
Drives
Memory
Microprocessor
PCI Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Closing the Computer Cover

Small Desktop Computer
About Your Computer
l
l
l
l
l

Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand

Adding and Removing Parts
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l

Opening the Computer Cover
AGP and DVI Adapter Cards
Battery
Drives
Memory
Microprocessor
PCI Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Closing the Computer Cover

Small Mini-Tower Computer
About Your Computer
l
l
l
l

Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components

Adding and Removing Parts
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l

Opening the Computer Cover
AGP and DVI Adapter Cards
Battery
Drives
Memory
Microprocessor
PCI Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Closing the Computer Cover

Computer and Software Problems
Solving Problems
Advanced Troubleshooting

Additional Information
Microsoft® Windows® XP Features
Glossary

CAUTION: Safety Instructions
Ergonomic Computing Habits
Regulatory Notices
Warranty and Return Policy

Getting Help

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.

Dell recommends that the original version (Gold) of Windows XP should not be installed on this platform.

Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Glossary.

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 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, OptiPlex, Inspiron, Dimension, Latitude, Dell Precision, DellNet, TravelLite, Dell OpenManage, PowerVault, Axim, and PowerApp are
trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows NT, MS-DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation; IBM and OS/2 are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation; NetWare and Novell are registered trademarks of Novell, Inc.
ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY
STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any
proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision
Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited
viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
Models: DHP, DHS, and DHM
May 2004 8Y945 Rev. A02

Back to Contents Page

Advanced Troubleshooting
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Dell Diagnostics
Reinstalling Drivers
Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore
Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP
Reinstalling Microsoft Windows 2000
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Dell Diagnostics
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical
assistance. Running the Dell Diagnostics may help you resolve the problem without contacting Dell. If you do contact Dell, the test results can provide
important information for Dell's service and support personnel.
The Dell Diagnostics allows you to:
l

Perform tests on one or all devices

Select tests based on a symptom of the problem you are having

Choose how many times a test is run

Suspend testing if an error is detected

Access help information that describes the tests and devices

Receive status messages that tell you whether tests completed successfully

Receive error messages if problems are detected

Starting the Dell Diagnostics
It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.
NOTICE: Use the Dell Diagnostics to test your Dell™ computer only. Using this program with other computers can result in error messages.

Enter system setup, review your computer's configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test displays in system setup and is active.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD).

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
1.

Shut down and restart the computer.

When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately.

NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities CD.

If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer
through the Start menu and try again.
3.

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

When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD
1.

Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.

Shut down and restart the computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press immediately.
If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the
Start menu and try again.

NOTE: This feature changes the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in system
setup.

When the boot device list appears, highlight IDE CD-ROM Device and press .

Select the IDE CD-ROM Device option from the CD boot menu.

Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears.

Type 1 to start the ResourceCD menu.

Type 2 to start the Dell Diagnostics.

Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer.

When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
1.

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want.

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen.
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.

If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab described in the following table for more information.

Tab

Function

Results

Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered.

Errors

Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and problem description.

Help

Describes the test and may indicate requirements for running the test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains 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

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

When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities CD, remove the CD.

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.

Reinstalling Drivers
Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation or configuration is needed.
NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your computer. Ensure that you are installing software
appropriate for your operating system.
Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft® Windows® operating system. You may need to install drivers if you:
l

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
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.

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.

Windows 2000
1.

Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

Double-click System.

In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.

Click Device Manager.

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and Utilities CD provide approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install
drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback
If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously
installed version.
1.

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

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.

Using the Drivers and Utilities CD
If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the
Resource CD).
NOTE: To access device drivers and user documentation, you must use the Drivers and Utilities CD while your computer is running Windows.

Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.
If this is your first time to use the Drivers and Utilities CD, the Installation window opens to inform you that the CD will begin the installation. Click OK
and respond to the installation program prompts to complete the installation.

Click Next at the Welcome Dell System Owner screen.

Choose the appropriate selections for System Model, Operating System, Device Type, and Topic.

Click My Drivers in the Topic drop-down menu.
The Drivers and Utilities CD scans your computer's hardware and operating system and then displays a list of device drivers for your system
configuration.

Click the appropriate driver and follow the instructions to download the driver for your computer.

To view a list of all available drivers for your computer, click Drivers in the Topic drop-down menu.
To access the help files on the Drivers and Utilities CD, click the question mark button or the Help link at the top of the screen.

Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore

System Restore returns 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.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them.

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
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 bold.

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 close all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or
programs until the system restoration is complete.
1.

Click the Start button, point to All Programs® Accessories® System Tools, and then click System Restore.

Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.

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.

Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP
Before You Reinstall
If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, use System Restore to return your
operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver.

NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary
hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.
To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:
l

Dell Operating System CD

Dell ResourceCD

NOTE: The Dell ResourceCD contains drivers that were factory-installed during assembly of the computer. Use the ResourceCD to load any required
drivers, including those drivers required if your computer has a redundant array of independent disks (RAID) controller.
l

Product Key (Product ID Number) ____________________

NOTE: The Product Key is the bar code number on the sticker that is located on the external side cover of your computer. You may be prompted for the
Product Key when using the Operating System CD under certain conditions.

Reinstalling Windows XP
To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which they are listed.
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus
protection program, and other software.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed
on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless instructed to do so by a Dell technical support representative.
NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your computer before you reinstall Windows XP. See
the documentation that came with the software for instructions.

Booting From the Operating System CD
1.

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

Insert the Operating System CD. If any program starts automatically, exit the program before proceeding.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu and restart the computer.

Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again.

Press the arrow keys to select CD-ROM, and then press .

When the Press any key to boot from CD message appears, press any key.

Windows XP Setup
1.

When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press to select To set up Windows now.

Read the information on the Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement screen, and press to accept the license agreement.

If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to recover your current Windows XP data, type r to select the repair option, and then
remove the CD from the drive.

If you want to install a new copy of Windows XP, press to select that option.

Press to select the highlighted partition (recommended), and then follow the instructions on the screen.
The Windows XP Setup screen appears, and the operating system begins to copy files and install the devices. The computer automatically restarts
multiple times.

NOTE: The time required to complete the setup depends on the size of the hard drive and the speed of your computer.
NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot from the CD.

When the Regional and Language Options screen appears, select the settings for your location, and then click Next.

Enter your name and organization (optional) in the Personalize Your Software screen and click Next.

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition, at the What's your computer's name window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the name
provided) and click Next.
If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional, at the Computer Name and Administrator Password window, enter a name for your computer (or accept
the one provided) and a password, and then click Next.

If the Modem Dialing Information screen appears, enter the requested information and click Next.

10.

Enter the date, time, and time zone in the Date and Time Settings window and click Next.

11.

If the Networking Settings screen appears, click Typical and click Next.

12.

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional and you are prompted to provide further information regarding your network configuration, enter your
selections. If you are unsure of your settings, accept the default selections.
Windows XP installs the operating system components and configures the computer. The computer automatically restarts.

NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot from the CD.

13.

When the Welcome to Microsoft screen appears, click Next.

14.

When the How will this computer connect to the Internet? message appears, click Skip.

15.

When the Ready to register with Microsoft? screen appears, select No, not at this time and click Next.

16.

When the Who will use this computer? screen appears, you can enter up to five users. Click Next.

17.

Click Finish to complete the setup, and remove the CD from the drive.

18.

Reinstall the appropriate drivers using the ResourceCD.

19.

Reinstall your virus protection software.

Reinstalling Microsoft Windows 2000
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed
on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless instructed to do so by a Dell technical support representative.
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus
protection program, and other software.
1.

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

Insert the Operating System CD. If any program starts automatically, exit the program before proceeding.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu and restart the computer.

Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.

If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again.
5.

Press the arrow keys to select CD-ROM, and then press .

When the Press any key to boot from CD message appears, press any key.

When the Windows 2000 Setup window appears, ensure that To setup Win2000 now, press ENTER is highlighted. Then press .

When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup window appears, press the arrow keys to select the Windows 2000 partition option that you want. Then
press the key for the partition option you chose.

When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup window reappears, press the arrow keys to select the type of file system that you want Windows 2000
to use, and then press .

10.

Press again to restart your computer.

11.

Click Next when the Welcome to the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard window appears.

12.

When the Regional Settings window appears, select your region, and then click Next.

13.

Enter your name and organization in the Personalize Your Software window, and then click Next.

14.

Enter the Windows product key, which is printed on the Microsoft label on your computer. Then click Next.

15.

When the Computer Name and Administrator Password window appears, enter a name for your computer and a password, if desired. Then click Next.

16.

Enter the date and time in the Date and Time Settings window, and then click Next.
Windows 2000 installs components and configures the computer.

17.

When the Completing the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard window appears, remove the CD from the drive, and then click Finish.
The computer automatically restarts.

18.

Reinstall the appropriate drivers using the Drivers and Utilities CD.

19.

Reinstall your virus protection software.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
Microsoft Windows XP
Windows XP IRQ conflicts occur if a device either is not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured.
To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows XP:

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

Click Performance and Maintenance and click System.

Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.

In the Device Manager list, check for conflicts with the other devices.
Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (!) beside the conflicting device or a red X if the device has been disabled.

Double-click any conflict to display the Properties window.
If an IRQ conflict exists, the Device status area in the Properties window reports the cards or devices that share the device's IRQ.

Resolve conflicts by reconfiguring the devices or removing the devices from the Device Manager.

To use the Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter:
1.

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.

Windows 2000
To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows 2000:
1.

Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

In the Control Panel window, double-click System.

Click the Hardware tab.

Click Device Manager.

Click View and click Resources by connection.

Double-click Interrupt request (IRQ) to view the IRQ assignments.
Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (!) beside the conflicting device or a red X if the device has been disabled.

Double-click any conflict to display the Properties window.
If an IRQ conflict exists, the Device status area in the Properties window reports the cards or devices that share the device's IRQ.

Resolve conflicts by reconfiguring the devices or removing the devices from the Device Manager.

To use the Windows 2000 Hardware Troubleshooter:
1.

Click the Start button and click Help.

Click Troubleshooting and Maintenance on the Contents tab, click Windows 2000 troubleshooters, and then click Hardware.

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

Back to Contents Page

Advanced Features
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
LegacySelect Technology Control

Booting to a USB Device

Manageability

Jumper Settings

Security

Power Button

Password Protection

Hyper-Threading

System Setup

Power Management

LegacySelect Technology Control
LegacySelect technology control offers legacy-full, legacy-reduced, or legacy-free solutions based on common platforms, hard-drive images, and help desk
procedures. Control is provided to the administrator through system setup, Dell OpenManage™ IT Assistant, or Dell™ custom factory integration.
LegacySelect allows administrators to electronically activate or deactivate connectors and media devices that include serial and USB connectors, a parallel
connector, PCI slots, a floppy drive, and a PS/2 mouse. Connectors and media devices that are deactivated make resources available. You must restart the
computer to effect the changes.

Manageability
Alert Standard Format
ASF is a DMTF management standard that specifies "pre-operating system" or "operating system-absent" alerting techniques. The standard is designed to
generate an alert on potential security and fault conditions when the operating system is in a sleep state or the system is powered down. ASF is designed to
supersede previous operating system-absent alerting technologies.
Your computer supports the following ASF version 1.0 alerts and remote capabilities:
Alert

Description

Chassis: Chassis Intrusion – Physical Security Violation/Chassis Intrusion –
Physical Security Violation Event Cleared

The computer chassis has been opened or the chassis
intrusion alert has been cleared.

BIOS: Corrupt BIOS/Corrupt BIOS Cleared

The BIOS has been corrupted or the BIOS corruption has been
resolved.

Boot: Failure to Boot to BIOS

The BIOS did not complete loading upon initiation.

Password: System Password Violation

The system password is invalid (alert occurs after three failed
attempts).

CPU: CPU DOA Alert/CPU DOA Alert Cleared

The microprocessor is not functioning.

Heartbeats: Entity Presence

Periodic heartbeats have been transmitted to verify system
presence.

Cooling Device: Generic Critical Fan Failure/Generic Critical Fan Failure Cleared

The fan speed (rpm) is out of limits or the fan speed (rpm)
problem has been resolved.

Connectivity: Ethernet Connectivity Enabled/
Ethernet Connectivity Disabled

The ethernet connectivity is enabled or the ethernet
connectivity is disabled.

For more information about Dell's ASF implementation, see the ASF User's Guide and the ASF Administrator's Guide, which are available on the Dell Support
website at support.dell.com.

Dell OpenManage IT Assistant
IT Assistant configures, manages, and monitors computers and other devices on a corporate network. IT Assistant manages assets, configurations, events
(alerts), and security for computers equipped with industry-standard management software. It supports instrumentation that conforms to SNMP, DMI, and CIM
industry standards.
Dell OpenManage Client instrumentation, which is based on DMI and CIM, is available for your computer. For information on IT Assistant, see the Dell
OpenManage IT Assistant User's Guide available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation
Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation is software that enables remote management programs such as IT Assistant to do the following:
l

Access information about your computer, such as how many processors it has and what operating system it is running

Monitor the status of your computer, such as listening for thermal alerts from temperature probes or hard-drive failure alerts from storage devices

Change the state of your computer, such as updating its BIOS or shutting it down remotely

A managed system has Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation set up on a network that uses IT Assistant. For information about Dell OpenManage Client
Instrumentation, see the Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation User's Guide, which is available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

Security
Chassis Intrusion Detection
NOTE: When the setup password is enabled, you must know the setup password before you can reset the Chassis Intrusion setting.

This feature detects that the chassis was opened and alerts the user. To change the Chassis Intrusion setting:
1.

Enter system setup.

Press the down-arrow keys to move to the System Security option.

Press to access the System Security option's pop-up menu.

Press the down-arrow key to move to the Chassis Intrusion setting.

Press the spacebar to select an option setting.

Exit system setup.

Option Settings
l

Enabled — If the computer cover is opened, the setting changes to Detected, and the following alert message displays during the boot routine at the
next computer start-up:

Alert! Cover was previously removed.
To reset the Detected setting, enter system setup. In the Chassis Intrusion option, press the left- or right-arrow key to select Reset, and then choose
Enabled, Enabled-Silent, or Disabled.
l

Enabled-Silent (default) — If the computer cover is opened, the setting changes to Detected. No alert message appears during the boot sequence at
the next computer start-up.

Disabled — No intrusion monitoring occurs and no messages appear.

Padlock Ring and Security Cable Slot
Use one of the following methods to secure your computer:
l

Use a padlock alone or a padlock and looped security cable with the padlock ring located on the back of your computer.
A padlock alone prevents the computer from being opened.
A security cable looped around a stationary object is used in conjunction with a padlock to prevent unauthorized movement of the computer.

Attach a commercially available antitheft device to the security cable slot on the back of the computer.

NOTE: Before you purchase an antitheft device, make sure that it works with the security cable slot on your computer.

Antitheft devices usually include a segment of metal-stranded cable with an attached locking device and key. Dell recommends that you use a
Kensington lock. The documentation that comes with the device contains instructions for installing it.

Password Protection
NOTICE: Although passwords provide security for the data on your computer, they are not foolproof. If your data requires more security, it is your
responsibility to obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as data encryption programs.

System Password
NOTICE: If you leave your computer running and unattended without having a system password assigned, or if you leave your computer unlocked so
that someone can disable the password by changing a jumper setting, anyone can access the data stored on your hard drive.

Option Settings
You cannot change or enter a new system password if either of the following two options is displayed:
l

Enabled — A system password is assigned.

Disabled — The system password is disabled by a jumper setting on the system board.

You can only assign a system password when the following option is displayed:
l

Not Enabled — No system password is assigned and the password jumper on the system board is in the enabled position (the default).

Assigning a System Password
To escape from the field without assigning a system password, press or the key combination to move to another field, or press at
any time before you complete step 5.
1.

Enter system setup and verify that Password Status is set to Unlocked.

Highlight System Password, and then press the left- or right-arrow key.
The option heading changes to Enter Password, followed by an empty 32-character field in square brackets.

Type your new system password.
You can use up to 32 characters. To erase a character when entering your password, press or the left-arrow key. The password is not
case sensitive.
Certain key combinations are not valid. If you enter one of these combinations, the speaker emits a beep.
As you press each character key (or the spacebar for a blank space), a placeholder appears in the field.

Press .
If the new system password is less than 32 characters, the whole field fills with placeholders. Then the option heading changes to Verify Password,
followed by another empty 32-character field in square brackets.

To confirm your password, type it a second time and press .
The password setting changes to Enabled.

Exit system setup.
Password protection takes effect when you restart the computer.

Typing Your System Password
When you start or restart your computer, one of the following prompts appears on the screen.
If Password Status is set to Unlocked:
Type in the password and
- press to leave password security enabled.
- press to disable password security.
Enter password:
If Password Status is set to Locked:
Type the password and press .
If you have assigned a setup password, the computer accepts your setup password as an alternate system password.
If you type a wrong or incomplete system password, the following message appears on the screen:
** Incorrect password. **
If you again type an incorrect or incomplete system password, the same message appears on the screen. The third and subsequent times you type an
incorrect or incomplete system password, the computer displays the following message:
** Incorrect password. **
Number of unsuccessful password attempts: 3
System halted! Must power down.
Even after your computer is turned off and on, the previous message is displayed each time you type an incorrect or incomplete system password.
NOTE: You can use Password Status in conjunction with System Password and Setup Password to further protect your computer from unauthorized
changes.

Deleting or Changing an Existing System Password
1.

Enter system setup and verify that Password Status is set to Unlocked.

Restart your computer.

When prompted, type the system password.

Press to disable the existing system password.

Confirm that Not Enabled is displayed for the System Password option.
If Not Enabled is displayed, the system password is deleted. If Not Enabled is not displayed, press to restart the computer, and then repeat
step 3 through step 5.
To assign a new password, follow the procedure in "Assigning a System Password."

Exit system setup.

Setup Password
Option Settings
l

Enabled — Does not allow assignment of setup passwords; users must enter a setup password to make changes to system setup

Not Enabled — Allows assignment of setup passwords; password feature is enabled but no password is assigned

Assigning a Setup Password
The setup password can be the same as the system password.
NOTE: If the two passwords are different, the setup password can be used as an alternate system password. However, the system password cannot
be used in place of the setup password.
1.

Enter system setup and verify that Setup Password is set to Not Enabled.

Highlight Setup Password and press the left- or right-arrow key.
The computer prompts you to type and verify the password. If a character is not permitted, the computer emits a beep.

Type and then verify the password.
After you verify the password, the Setup Password setting changes to Enabled. The next time you enter system setup, the computer prompts you for
the setup password.

Exit system setup.
A change to Setup Password becomes effective immediately (no need to restart the computer).

Operating Your Computer With a Setup Password Enabled
When you enter system setup, the Setup Password option is highlighted, prompting you to type the password.
If you do not type the correct password, the computer lets you view, but not modify, system setup options.
NOTE: You can use Password Status in conjunction with Setup Password to protect the system password from unauthorized changes.

Deleting or Changing an Existing Setup Password
To change an existing setup password, you must know the setup password.
1.

Enter system setup.

Type the setup password at the prompt.

Highlight Setup Password and press the left- or right-arrow key to delete the existing setup password.
The setting changes to Not Enabled.
To assign a new setup password, perform the steps in "Assigning a System Password."

Exit system setup.

Disabling a Forgotten Password and Setting a New Password
NOTICE: This process erases both the system and setup passwords.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Open the computer cover.

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.
2.

Remove the jumper plug labeled "PSWD" from the jumper.

See "Jumper Settings" to locate the password jumper.
3.

Close the computer cover.

Reconnect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and turn them on.
This disables the existing password(s).

Enter system setup and verify that Setup Password is set to Disabled.

Exit system setup.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Open the computer cover.

Replace the PSWD jumper plug.

Close the computer cover and reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets and turn them on.
This re-enables the password feature. When you enter system setup, both password options appear as Not Enabled—the password feature is enabled
but no password is assigned.

10.

Assign a new system and/or setup password.

System Setup
Use system setup settings as follows:
l

To set user-selectable options such as date and time or system password

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

Print the system setup screens (by pressing ) or record the information for future reference.
Before you use system setup, you must know the kind of floppy drive(s) and hard drive(s) installed in your computer. To confirm this information, see the
Manufacturing Test Report that came with your computer, or find this information in the online Dell Accessories folder.

Entering System Setup
1.

Turn on or restart your computer.

When Press to Enter Setup appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press immediately.
If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer
through the Start menu and try again.

NOTE: To ensure an orderly computer shutdown, see the documentation that came with your operating system.

System Setup Screens
System setup screens display current configuration information for your computer. Information on the screen is organized into four areas:
l

Title — The box at the top of all screens that lists the computer name.

Computer data — Two boxes below the title box that display your computer processor, L2 cache, service tag, and the version number of the BIOS.

Options — A scrollable box listing options that define the configuration of your computer, including installed hardware, power conservation, and security
features.
Fields to the right of the option titles contain settings or values. The fields that you can change appear bright on the screen. The fields that you cannot
change (because they are set by the computer) appear less bright. When appears to the right of an option title, press to access a
popup menu of additional options.

Key functions — A line of boxes across the bottom of all screens that lists keys and their functions within system setup.

System Setup Navigation Keys
Keys

Action

Moves to the next field.

Moves to the previous field.

Cycles through the options in a field.
In many fields, you can also type the
appropriate value.

Scrolls through help information.

Enters the selected field's pop up
options menu.

spacebar or

In the selected field's pop up options
menu, cycles through the options in a
field.

Exits system setup without restarting
the computer and returns the
computer to the boot routine.

Exits system setup and restarts the
computer, implementing any changes
you have made.

Resets the selected option to the
default.

Restores all system settings to the
default configuration.

Boot Sequence
This feature allows users to change the sequence of devices from which the computer boots.

Option Settings
l

Normal — (Available only for the current boot process) The computer attempts to boot from the sequence of devices specified in system setup.

Diskette Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the floppy drive. If the floppy disk in the drive is not bootable, or if no floppy disk is in the drive,
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.

PXE — (Available only for the future boot process) As the computer boots, it 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 system attempts to boot from the next device in the boot sequence list.

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 your device is bootable, check the device documentation.

Changing Boot Sequence for the Current Boot

You can use this feature, for example, to tell the computer to boot from the CD drive so you can run the Dell Diagnostics, but specify that the computer boots
from the hard drive when the diagnostic tests are complete.
If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the Start
menu and try again.
1.

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 Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the
Start menu and try again.

NOTE: To ensure an orderly computer shutdown, consult the documentation that came with your operating system.

The Boot Device Menu appears, listing all available boot devices. Each device has a number next to it. At the bottom of the menu, enter the number of
the device that is to be used for the current boot only.

Changing Boot Sequence for Future Boots
1.

Enter system setup.

Use the arrow keys to highlight the Boot Sequence menu option and press to access the pop-up 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 the plus (+) or minus (–) keys to move a selected device up or down the list.

System Setup Options
NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, all of the items listed in the section may or may not appear.
Drive Configuration
l

Diskette Drive A — Identifies the floppy drive attached to the DSKT connector on the system board. With the standard cabling
configuration, Diskette Drive A (the boot floppy drive) is the 3.5-inch floppy drive installed in the top externally accessible drive bay.
The two options are 3.5 Inch, 1.44 MB and Not Installed.
Tape drives are not reflected in the Diskette Drive A option. For example, if a single floppy drive and a tape drive are attached to the
floppy drive interface cable, set Diskette Drive A to 3.5 Inch, 1.44 MB.

l
l
l
l
l
l
l

SATA Primary Drive — Identifies the serial ATA hard drive attached to the SATA1 connector on the system board.
SATA Secondary Drive — Identifies the serial ATA hard drive attached to the SATA2 connector on the system board (not available on
the small form-factor or small desktop computers).
Primary Drive 0 — Identifies the IDE hard drive attached to the IDE1 connector on the system board.
Primary Drive 1 — Identifies the IDE device attached to the IDE2 connector on the system board.
Secondary Drive 0 — Identifies the device that is cabled with the drive on the IDE1 data cable.
Secondary Drive 1 — Identifies the device that is cabled with the device on the IDE2 data cable.
IDE Drive UDMA — Sets the mode for all installed hard drives.

NOTE: You must have an IDE device connected to the primary IDE interface if you have an IDE device connected to the secondary IDE
interface.
If You Have a Problem — See "Hard drive problems."
Hard-Disk Drive Sequence — If you insert an boot device and reboot, this option will appear in your system setup menu.
l
l

System BIOS boot device
USB Device

NOTE: To boot from a USB memory device, select the USB device and move it to make it the first device in the list.
Boot Sequence — See "Boot Sequence" for more information on this option.
Memory Information — Indicates amount of installed memory, computer memory speed, amount of video memory, size of the display cache,
and channel mode (dual or single).
CPU Information
l

CPU Speed — The processor speed at which the computer boots.
Press the left- or right-arrow key to toggle the CPU Speed option between the resident microprocessor's rated speed (the default)
and a lower-compatibility speed. A change to this option takes effect immediately (no restart is necessary).
To toggle between the rated processor speed and the compatibility speed while the computer is running in real mode, press
<\>. (For keyboards that do not use American English, press <#>.)

l
l
l
l

Bus Speed — The speed of the microprocessor's system bus.
Processor ID — The manufacturer's identification code(s) for the installed microprocessor.
Clock Speed — The core speed at which the microprocessor(s) operates.
Cache Size — The size of the microprocessor's L2 cache.

Hyper-Threading — Enables or disables Hyper-Threading technology for operating systems that support Hyper-Threading. The
default setting is Disabled.

NOTE: If your computer has a processor capable of supporting hyper-threading, the Hyper-Threading option will be the first selection in the
list.
Integrated Devices (Legacy Select Options) — Configures the following devices integrated with the system board:
l
l
l
l
l
l
l

Sound — The settings are On (default) or Off.
Network Interface Controller — The settings are On (default), Off, or On w/ PXE.
Mouse Port — The settings are On or Off.
USB Emulation — The settings are On (default) and Off.
USB Controller — The settings are On (default) or Off.
PCI Slots — The settings are Enabled (default) and Disabled.
Serial Port 1 and Serial Port 2 (Serial Port 2 will appear as an option if you have a serial port card installed)— The settings are Off
and Auto (default).
Auto automatically configures a connector to a particular designation (COM1 or COM3 for Serial Port 1; COM2 or COM4 for Serial
Port 2).
If you set a serial connector to Auto and add a card containing a connector configured to the same designation, the computer
automatically remaps the integrated port to the next available connector designation that shares the same IRQ setting as follows:
l
l

COM1 (I/O address 3F8h), which shares IRQ4 with COM3, is remapped to COM3 (I/O address 3E8h).
COM2 (I/O address 2F8h), which shares IRQ3 with COM4, is remapped to COM4 (I/O address 2E8h).

NOTE: When two COM connectors share an IRQ setting, you can use either connector as necessary, but you may not be able to use them
both at the same time. If you are running the Windows 95 or IBM® OS/2® operating system, you cannot use both serial connectors at the
same time. If the second connector (COM3 or COM4) is also in use, the integrated connector is turned off.
l

Parallel Port — The settings are Mode, I/O Address, and DMA Channel.
¡ Mode settings are PS/2 (default), EPP, ECP, AT, or Off. Set the Mode option according to the type of device connected to the
parallel connector. To determine the correct mode to use, see the documentation that came with the device.
¡ I/O Address settings are 378h (default), 278h, or 3BCh. The settings are not available when Mode is set to Off.

NOTE: You cannot set the parallel connector to 3BCh if Mode is set to EPP.
¡

DMA Channel appears only when Mode is set to ECP. Settings are DMA 1, DMA 3, or Off.

IDE Drive Interface —The settings are Off and Auto (default).
Auto turns off the IDE interface when necessary to accommodate a controller card installed in an expansion slot.

l
l

Diskette Interface — The settings are Auto (default), Read Only, and Off.
¡ Auto turns off the integrated floppy drive controller when necessary to accommodate a controller card installed in an expansion
slot.
¡ Read Only prevents the computer's integrated floppy drive controller from writing to floppy drives and activates Auto.
PC Speaker — The settings are On (default) and Off.
Primary Video Controller — The settings are Auto (default) and Onboard.
¡ Auto (default) — If only an AGP card is installed, the computer uses the AGP card; if only a PCI card is installed, the computer
uses the PCI card; if both AGP and PCI cards are installed, the computer uses both cards unless the computer is using Windows
NT, in which case the computer uses the AGP card.
¡ Onboard — The computer uses the AGP card.
Onboard Video Buffer — The settings are 1 MB (default) and 8 MB.

Power Management (see "Power Management" for more information)
l
l

Suspend Mode — The options are S1 or S3.
AC Power Recovery — Determines what happens when AC power is restored to the computer.
¡ Off (default) — The computer remains off when AC power is restored.
¡ On — The computer starts when AC power is restored.
¡ Last — The computer returns to the AC power state existing at the time that AC power was lost
Low Power Mode — The settings are Enabled and Disabled.

System Security — See "Security" for more information.
Keyboard NumLock — The settings are On and Off (does not apply to 84-key keyboards).
l
l

On (default) — activates the rightmost bank of keys so they provide the mathematical and numeric functions shown at the top of each
key.
Off — activates the rightmost bank of keys so they provide cursor-control functions shown by the label on the bottom of each key.

Auto Power On — Sets time and days of week to automatically turn on the computer. Choices are every day or every Monday through
Friday.
Time is kept in a 24-hour format (hours:minutes). Change the start-up time by pressing the right- or left-arrow keys to increase or decrease
the numbers or type numbers in both the date and time fields.
Disabled is the default.
This feature does not work if you turn off your computer using a power strip or surge protector.
Fastboot
l
l

On (default) — Your computer boots in 10 seconds or less, skipping certain configurations and tests.
Off — Your computer does not skip certain configurations and tests during the boot process.

Hard Drive Acoustics Mode
The acoustics mode field may contain the following options:

l
l

Quiet (default) — The hard drive operates in its quietest setting.
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.
l
l

Bypass — Your computer will not test or change the current acoustics mode setting.
Suggested — The hard drive will operate at the level suggested by the hard-drive manufacturer.

NOTE: Changing the acoustics setting does not alter your hard-drive image.
Asset Tag — Displays the customer-programmable asset tag number for the computer if an asset tag number is assigned.

Booting to a USB Device
NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To ensure that your device is bootable, check the device documentation.

Memory Key
1.

Insert the memory key 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.

From the boot menu, select the number that appears next to the USB device.
The computer boots to the USB device.

Floppy Drive
1.

Disable the integrated floppy controller by entering system setup, going to integrated devices, and setting the diskette interface to Off.

Connect the USB floppy drive, insert a bootable diskette, and re-boot the system.

Jumper Settings

NOTICE: Ensure that your computer is turned off and unplugged before you change the jumper settings. Otherwise, damage to your computer or
unpredictable results can occur.
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.
To change a jumper setting, pull the plug off its pin(s) and carefully fit it down onto the pin(s) indicated.
Jumper Setting

Description
Password features are enabled.

PSWD
(default)

RTCRST

Password features are disabled.

Real-time clock reset

jumpered

unjumpered

Power Button
NOTICE: To turn off your computer, perform an orderly computer shutdown when possible.

You can use the ACPI feature to configure the function of the Microsoft Windows 2000 and Windows XP operating systems.

Power Button Functions With ACPI Enabled
Action

Results

Computer Turned
On
and ACPI Enabled

Computer
in Standby
Mode

Computer
Turned Off

Press
power
button

Computer goes into
standby mode or
turns off (depending
on the operating
system setup)

Computer
turns on

Boots and
computer
turns on

Hold
power
button
for 6
seconds*

Computer turns off

Computer
turns off

Boots and
computer
turns on

NOTE: *Pressing or holding the power button for 6 seconds
will cause the computer to shut down, which may result in
data loss. Use the power button to shut down the computer
only if the operating system is not responding.

Power Button Functions With ACPI Disabled
Action

Results

Computer
Turned On and
ACPI Disabled

Computer in
Suspend
Mode

Computer
Turned Off

Press power
button

Computer turns
off immediately

Computer
turns off
immediately

Boots and
computer
turns on

Hold power
button for 6
seconds*

Computer turns
off

Computer
turns off

Boots and
computer
turns on

Power Button Functions for Windows NT
Action

Results

Computer
Turned On

Computer Turned Off

Press power button Computer shuts
down

Boots and computer
turns on

Hold power button
for 6 seconds*

Boots and computer
turns on

Computer turns
off

Hyper-Threading
Hyper-Threading is an Intel® technology that can enhance overall computer performance by
microprocessors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously. It is recommended that
system because Windows XP is optimized to take advantage of Hyper-Threading technology.
programs have not been optimized for Hyper-Threading and may require an update from the
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.

allowing one physical microprocessor to function as two logical
you use the Microsoft® Windows® XP SP1 or later operating
While many programs can benefit from Hyper-Threading, some
software manufacturer. Contact the software manufacturer for

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

You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup.

Power Management
Your computer can be set to use less power when you are not working. You control the power usage through the operating system installed on your
computer and certain option settings in system setup. These periods of reduced power are called "sleep states":
l

Standby. In this sleep state, power is reduced or turned off for most components, including the cooling fans. However, system memory remains active.
This state is not supported by Windows NT 4.0.

NOTE: All components installed in the computer must support this feature and have the appropriate drivers loaded to enter standby. For more
information, see the manufacturer's documentation for each component.
l

Hibernate. This sleep state reduces power consumption to a minimum by writing all data in system memory to a hard drive and then removing system
power. Waking up from this state restarts the computer, and the memory contents are restored. Operation then resumes where the computer left off
when it entered the hibernation state.
This state is not supported by Windows NT 4.0.

NOTE: All components installed in the computer must support this feature and have the appropriate drivers loaded to enter hibernation. For more
information, see the manufacturer's documentation for each component.
l

Shutdown. This sleep state removes all power from the computer except a small auxiliary amount. As long as the computer remains connected to an
electrical outlet, it can be automatically or remotely started. For example, the Auto Power On option in system setup allows the computer to
automatically start at a specified time. Also, your network administrator can remotely start your computer using a power management event such as
Remote Wake Up.

The following table lists the sleep states and the methods you can use to wake the computer from each state.
Sleep State Wake-Up Methods (Windows 2000 and XP)
Standby

l
l
l
l
l
l

Hibernate

l
l
l

Shutdown

l
l
l

Press the power button
Auto power on
Move or click the mouse
Type on the keyboard
USB device activity
Power management event

Press the power button
Auto power on
Power management event

NOTE: For more information on power management, see your operating system documentation.

Back to Contents Page

Battery
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

Replacing the Battery
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.
The battery may need replacing if an incorrect time or date is displayed during the boot routine along with a message such as:
Time-of-day not set - please run SETUP program
or
Invalid configuration information please run SETUP program
or
Strike the F1 key to continue,
F2 to run the setup utility
To determine whether you need to replace the battery, reenter the time and date in system setup and exit the program to save the information. Turn off your
computer and disconnect it from the electrical outlet for a few hours; then reconnect the computer, turn it on, and enter system setup. If the date and time are
not correct in system setup, replace the battery.
You can operate your computer without a battery; however, without a battery, the configuration information is erased if the computer is turned off or
unplugged from the electrical outlet. In this case, you must enter system setup and reset the configuration options.
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.

If you have not already done so, make a copy of your configuration information, found in system setup.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.

Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Locate the battery socket (see illustration).

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.
9.
10.

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

11.

Close the computer cover.

12.

Attach the computer stand, if it is used.

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

13.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next
computer start-up:

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
14.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
15.

Enter system setup and restore the settings you recorded in step 1.

16.

Properly dispose of the old battery (see "Battery Disposal").

Back to Contents Page

Cleaning Your Computer
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor
Mouse
Floppy Drive
CDs and DVDs

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor
l

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 monitor 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
liquid dishwashing detergent.
Do not soak the cloth in the solution or let the solution 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.

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
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.

Back to Contents Page

Closing the Computer Cover
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

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.

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 step 3.

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

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
5.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

Ergonomic Computing Habits
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.
CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain.

For comfort and efficiency, observe the following ergonomic guidelines when setting up and using your computer workstation:
l

Position your computer so that the monitor and keyboard are directly in front of you as you work. Special shelves are commercially available to help you
correctly position your keyboard.

Set the monitor at a comfortable viewing distance (usually 450 to 610 millimeters [18 to 24 inches] from your eyes).

Make sure the monitor screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.

Adjust the tilt of the monitor, its contrast and brightness settings, and the lighting around you (such as overhead lights, desk lamps, and the curtains or
blinds on nearby windows) to minimize reflections and glare on the monitor screen.

Use a chair that provides good lower back support.

Keep your forearms horizontal with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position while using the keyboard or mouse.

Always leave space to rest your hands while using the keyboard or mouse.

Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides.

Ensure that your feet are resting flat on the floor.

When sitting, make sure the weight of your legs is on your feet and not on the front of your chair seat. Adjust your chair's height or use a footrest, if
necessary, to maintain proper posture.

Vary your work activities. Try to organize your work so that you do not have to type for extended periods of time. When you stop typing, try to do
things that use both hands.

For more information about ergonomic computing habits, see the BSR/HFES 100 standard, which can be purchased on the Human Factors and Ergonomics
Society (HFES) website at: www.hfes.org/publications/HFES100.html

1 monitor screen at or below eye level

4 feet flat on the floor

2 monitor and keyboard positioned directly in front of the user 5 wrists relaxed and flat
3 monitor stand

References:
1. American National Standards Institute. ANSI/HFES 100: American National Standards for Human Factors Engineering of Visual Display Terminal Workstations.
Santa Monica, CA: Human Factors Society, Inc., 1988.
2. Human Factors and Ergonomics Society. BSR/HFES 100 Draft standard for trial use: Human Factors Engineering of Computer Workstations. Santa Monica, CA:
Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, 2002.

3. International Organization for Standardization (ISO). ISO 9241 Ergonomics requirements for office work with visual display terminals (VDTs). Geneva,
Switzerland: International Organization for Standardization, 1992.

Back to Contents Page

Finding Information for Your Computer
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

What are you looking for?
l
l
l
l

A diagnostic program for my
computer
Drivers for my computer
My computer documentation
My device documentation

Find It Here

Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD)
Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer when shipped from Dell. You can use the
CD to reinstall drivers, run the Dell Diagnostics, or access your documentation.

Readme files may be included on your CD to provide last-minute updates about technical changes to your
computer or advanced technical-reference material for experienced users or technicians.
l
l
l
l

How to set up my computer
Troubleshooting information
Tools and utilities
Warranty information

Setup and Quick Reference Guide

This document ships with your computer and is also found on the Dell Support site.
l
l
l
l

How to remove and replace parts
Technical specifications
How to configure system settings
How to troubleshoot and solve
problems

User's Guide

Microsoft® Windows® 2000 — Double-click the User's Guides icon

on your desktop.

Windows XP Help and Support Center — Click the Start button and click Help and Support. Click User's and
system guides.
l
l

l
l
l
l

Express Service Code and Service
Tag
Microsoft Windows License Label

Express Service Code and Product Key Label

The 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

These labels are located on your computer.

The Dell Support website provides several online tools, including:
l
l
l
l
l
l

l
l
l
l
l
l

l
l
l

Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online courses
Community Forum — 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

Service call status and support
history
Top technical issues for my computer
Frequently asked questions
File downloads
Details on my computer
configuration
Service contract for my computer

Dell Premier Support Website — premiersupport.dell.com

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

Windows Help and Support Center

The Dell Premier Support website is customized for corporate, government, and education customers. This
website may not be available in all regions.

1.
2.

Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon.

3.
4.

How to reinstall my operating
system

Click the topic that describes your problem.
Follow the instructions on the screen.

Operating System CD
You can use the Operating System CD to reinstall your operating system. Then, use the Drivers and Utilities CD
to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

The product key for your operating system is located on your computer.

Back to Contents Page

Getting Help
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Technical Assistance
Problems With Your Order
Product Information
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
Before You Call
Contacting Dell

Technical Assistance
If you need help with a technical problem, Dell is ready to assist you.
CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer covers, first disconnect the computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets.

Complete the procedures in "Solving Problems."

Run the "Dell Diagnostics."

Make a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist and fill it out.

Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support (support.dell.com) for help with installation and troubleshooting procedures.

If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, contact Dell.

NOTE: Call technical support from a telephone near or at the computer so that technical support can assist you with any necessary procedures.
NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.
When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If
you do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder, double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.
For instructions on using the technical support service, see "Technical Support Service."
NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S. Call your local Dell representative for information on
availability.

Online Services
You can access Dell Support at support.dell.com. Select your region on the WELCOME TO DELL SUPPORT page, and fill in the requested details to access
help tools and information.
You can contact Dell electronically using the following addresses:
l

World Wide Web

www.dell.com/
www.dell.com/ap/ (Asian/Pacific countries only)
www.dell.com/jp (Japan only)

www.euro.dell.com (Europe only)
www.dell.com/la/ (Latin American countries)
www.dell.ca (Canada only)
l

Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)

ftp.dell.com/
Log in as user: anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.
l

Electronic Support Service

mobile_support@us.dell.com
support@us.dell.com
apsupport@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only)
support.jp.dell.com (Japan only)
support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)
l

Electronic Quote Service

sales@dell.com
apmarketing@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only)
sales_canada@dell.com (Canada only)
l

Electronic Information Service

info@dell.com

AutoTech Service
Dell's automated technical support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their
portable and desktop computers.
When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your questions.
The AutoTech service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also access this service through the technical support service. For the telephone
number to call, see the contact numbers for your region.

Automated Order-Status Service

To check on the status of any Dell™ products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A
recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. For the telephone number to call, see the contact numbers for your
region.

Technical Support Service
Dell's technical support service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to answer your questions about Dell hardware. Our technical support staff uses
computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers.
To contact Dell's technical support service, see "Getting Help" and then call the number for your country as listed in "Contacting Dell."

Problems With Your Order
If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or
packing slip handy when you call. For the telephone number to call, see the contact numbers for your region.

Product Information
If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For the
telephone number to call to speak to a sales specialist, see the contact numbers for your region.

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:
1.

Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box.

For the telephone number to call, see the contact numbers for your region.
2.

Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.

Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist indicating the tests you have run and any error messages reported by the Dell Diagnostics.

Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (power cables, software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if the return is for credit.

Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing materials.

You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during shipment
to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted.
Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at Dell's receiving dock and returned to you.

Before You Call
NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell's automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently.
Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for technical assistance and call from a telephone at or
near the computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting
steps possible only at the computer itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is available.

CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the "Safety Instructions."
Diagnostics Checklist
Name:
Date:
Address:
Phone number:
Service Tag (bar code on the back of the computer):
Express Service Code:
Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):
Operating system and version:
Devices:
Expansion cards:
Are you connected to a network? Yes No
Network, version, and network adapter:
Programs and versions:
See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system's start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file.
Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell.
Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:
Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:

Contacting Dell
To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:
l

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

Tech Support and Customer Care
Sales

Country Code: 54

Tech Support Fax

City Code: 11

Customer Care Fax

Aruba

General Support

Australia (Sydney)

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

International Access Code:
0011
Country Code: 61
City Code: 2

E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com
Home and Small Business

toll-free: 0-800-444-0733
0-810-444-3355
11 4515 7139
11 4515 7138
toll-free: 800-1578
1-300-65-55-33

Government and Business

toll-free: 1-800-633-559

Preferred Accounts Division (PAD)

toll-free: 1-800-060-889

Customer Care

toll-free: 1-800-819-339

Austria (Vienna)
International Access Code:
900
Country Code: 43
City Code: 1

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1-800-808-385

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1-800-808-312

Fax

toll-free: 1-800-818-341

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com

Home/Small Business Sales

0820 240 530 00

Home/Small Business Fax

0820 240 530 49

Home/Small Business Customer Care

0820 240 530 14

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

E-mail: tech_be@dell.com

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

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 32
City Code: 2

Technical Support

02 481 92 88

Customer Care

02 481 91 19

Corporate Sales

02 481 91 00

Fax

02 481 92 99

Switchboard

02 481 91 00

Bermuda

General Support

1-800-342-0671

Bolivia

General Support

toll-free: 800-10-0238

Brazil

Website: www.dell.com/br

International Access Code: 00

Customer Support, Technical Support
Tech Support Fax

Country Code: 55

Customer Care Fax

0800 90 3355
51 481 5470
51 481 5480

City Code: 51

Sales

British Virgin Islands

General Support

Brunei

Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4966

Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4949

Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4955

Country Code: 673

Canada (North York, Ontario) Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus
International Access Code:
011

0800 90 3390
toll-free: 1-866-278-6820

AutoTech (automated technical support)

toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

TechFax

toll-free: 1-800-950-1329

Customer Care (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

Customer Care (med./large business, government)

toll-free: 1-800-326-9463

Technical Support (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

Technical Support (med./large bus., government)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5757

Sales (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5752

Sales (med./large bus., government)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5755

Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales

1 866 440 3355

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
China (Xiamen)
Country Code: 86

Tech Support website: support.ap.dell.com/china
Tech Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.com
Tech Support Fax

City Code: 592

818 1350

Home and Small Business Technical Support

toll-free: 800 858 2437

Corporate Accounts Technical Support

toll-free: 800 858 2333

Customer Experience

toll-free: 800 858 2060

Home and Small Business

toll-free: 800 858 2222

Preferred Accounts Division

toll-free: 800 858 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 2222

Large Corporate Accounts South

toll-free: 800 858 2355

Large Corporate Accounts West

toll-free: 800 858 2811

Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts

toll-free: 800 858 2621

Colombia

General Support

980-9-15-3978

Costa Rica

General Support

0800-012-0435

Czech Republic (Prague)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 420
City Code: 2

Denmark (Copenhagen)
International Access Code: 00

E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com

Technical Support

02 2186 27 27

Customer Care

02 2186 27 11

Fax

02 2186 27 14

TechFax

02 2186 27 28

Switchboard

02 2186 27 11

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail Support (portable computers): den_nbk_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (desktop computers): den_support@dell.com

Country Code: 45

E-mail Support (servers): Nordic_server_support@dell.com

Technical Support

7023 0182

Customer Care (Relational)

7023 0184

Home/Small Business Customer Care

3287 5505

Switchboard (Relational)

3287 1200

Fax Switchboard (Relational)

3287 1201

Switchboard (Home/Small Business)

3287 5000

Fax Switchboard (Home/Small Business)

3287 5001

Dominica

General Support

Dominican Republic

General Support

1-800-148-0530

Ecuador

General Support

toll-free: 999-119

El Salvador

General Support

01-899-753-0777

Finland (Helsinki)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code:
990
Country Code: 358
City Code: 9

France (Paris) (Montpellier)
International Access Code: 00

E-mail: fin_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (servers): Nordic_support@dell.com

toll-free: 1-866-278-6821

Technical Support

09 253 313 60

Technical Support Fax

09 253 313 81

Relational Customer Care

09 253 313 38

Home/Small Business Customer Care

09 693 791 94

Fax

09 253 313 99

Switchboard

09 253 313 00

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/

Home and Small Business

Country Code: 33

Technical Support

0825 387 270

City Codes: (1) (4)

Customer Care

0825 823 833

Switchboard
Switchboard (calls from outside of France)
Sales
Fax
Fax (calls from outside of France)
Corporate
Technical Support
Customer Care

Germany (Langen)
International Access Code: 00

0825 004 700
04 99 75 40 00
0825 004 700
0825 004 701
04 99 75 40 01
0825 004 719
0825 338 339

Switchboard

01 55 94 71 00

Sales

01 55 94 71 00

Fax

01 55 94 71 01

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com
Technical Support

06103 766-7200

Country Code: 49

Home/Small Business Customer Care

City Code: 6103

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

Greece
International Access Code: 00

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/gr/en/emaildell/
Technical Support

Country Code: 30

Gold Technical Support

0180-5-224400

080044149518
08844140083

Switchboard

2108129800

Sales

2108129800

Fax

2108129812

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
Country Code: 852

E-mail: ap_support@dell.com

Ireland (Cherrywood)
International Access Code: 16

Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell Precision™)

2969 3191

Technical Support (PowerApp™ and PowerVault™)

2969 3196

Gold Queue EEC Hotline

2969 3187

Customer Advocacy

3416 0910

Large Corporate Accounts

3416 0907

Global Customer Programs

3416 0908

Medium Business Division

3416 0912
2969 3105

Technical Support

1600 33 8045

Sales

1600 33 8044

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com

Country Code: 353

U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only)

City Code: 1

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)

International Access Code: 00

2969 3189

Technical Support

Italy (Milan)

Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™)

Home and Small Business Division
India

toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

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/SalesFax

01 204 0103

Switchboard

01 204 4444

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/it/it/emaildell/
Home and Small Business

Country Code: 39

Technical Support

02 577 826 90

City Code: 02

Customer Care

02 696 821 14

Fax

02 696 821 13

Switchboard

02 696 821 12

Corporate

02 577 826 90

Customer Care

02 577 825 55

Fax

02 575 035 30

Switchboard
Jamaica

General Support (dial from within Jamaica only)

Japan (Kawasaki)

Website: support.jp.dell.com

International Access Code:
001

Technical Support

Technical Support (servers)
Technical Support outside of Japan (servers)

02 577 821
1-800-682-3639
toll-free: 0120-198-498
81-44-556-4162

Country Code: 81

Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and Inspiron)

City Code: 44

Technical Support (Dell Precision™, OptiPlex™, and Latitude™)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude)
Technical Support (Axim™)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Axim)

International Access Code:
001
Country Code: 82

Latin America

81-44-556-3894
toll-free: 0120-981-690
81-44-556-3468
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
044-556-4300

Technical Support

toll-free: 080-200-3800

Sales

toll-free: 080-200-3600

Customer Service (Seoul, Korea)

toll-free: 080-200-3800

Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)
Fax

City Code: 2

81-44-520-1435
toll-free:0120-198-433

Faxbox Service

Switchboard
Korea (Seoul)

toll-free: 0120-198-226

Switchboard

604 633 4949
2194-6202
2194-6000

Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-4093

Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-3619

Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service) (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-3883

Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-4397

SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-4600
or 512 728-3772

Luxembourg
International Access Code: 00

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_be@dell.com
Technical Support (Brussels, Belgium)

Country Code: 352

Home/Small Business Sales (Brussels, Belgium)

Country Code: 853

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)
Macao

Technical Support
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)

02 481 91 00
toll-free: 0800 582
604 633 4949

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 0800 581

Malaysia (Penang)

Technical Support

toll-free: 1 800 888 298

International Access Code: 00

Customer Service

04 633 4949

Country Code: 60

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 202

City Code: 4

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 213

Mexico

Customer Technical Support

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 52

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

Sales

50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355

Customer Service

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

Main

50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355

Montserrat

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6822

Netherlands Antilles

General Support

001-800-882-1519

Netherlands (Amsterdam)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail (Technical Support):

Country Code: 31

(Enterprise): nl_server_support@dell.com

City Code: 20

(Latitude): nl_latitude_support@dell.com
(Inspiron): nl_inspiron_support@dell.com
(Dimension): nl_dimension_support@dell.com
(OptiPlex): nl_optiplex_support@dell.com
(Dell Precision): nl_workstation_support@dell.com

New Zealand
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 64

Technical Support

020 674 45 00

Technical Support Fax

020 674 47 66

Home/Small Business Customer Care

020 674 42 00

Relational Customer Care

020 674 4325

Home/Small Business Sales

020 674 55 00

Relational Sales

020 674 50 00

Home/Small Business Sales Fax

020 674 47 75

Relational Sales Fax

020 674 47 50

Switchboard

020 674 50 00

Switchboard Fax

020 674 47 50

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

Home and Small Business

0800 446 255

Government and Business

0800 444 617

Sales

0800 441 567

Fax

0800 441 566

Nicaragua

General Support

Norway (Lysaker)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail Support (portable computers):

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 47

001-800-220-1006

nor_nbk_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (desktop computers):

nor_support@dell.com
E-mail Support (servers):

nordic_server_support@dell.com
Technical Support

671 16882

Relational Customer Care

671 17514

Home/Small Business Customer Care
Switchboard

23162298
671 16800

Fax Switchboard

671 16865

Panama

General Support

001-800-507-0962

Peru

General Support

0800-50-669

Poland (Warsaw)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code:
011
Country Code: 48
City Code: 22

Portugal
International Access Code: 00

E-mail: pl_support@dell.com
Customer Service Phone
Customer Care

57 95 700
57 95 999

Sales

57 95 999

Customer Service Fax

57 95 806

Reception Desk Fax

57 95 998

Switchboard

57 95 999

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/pt/en/emaildell/
Technical Support

707200149

Country Code: 351

Customer Care

Sales

Fax

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

800 300 413
800 300 410 or 800 300 411 or
800 300 412 or 21 422 07 10
21 424 01 12

Singapore (Singapore)
International Access Code:
005

Technical Support
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)

toll-free: 800 6011 051
604 633 4949

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 800 6011 054

Country Code: 65

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 800 6011 053

South Africa (Johannesburg)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code:

E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com

Technical Support

011 709 7710

09/091

Customer Care

011 709 7707

Country Code: 27

Sales

011 709 7700

Fax

011 706 0495

Switchboard

011 709 7700

Southeast Asian and Pacific
Countries

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

604 633 4810

Spain (Madrid)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

City Code: 11

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/es/es/emaildell/
Home and Small Business

Country Code: 34

Technical Support

902 100 130

City Code: 91

Customer Care

902 118 540

Sales

902 118 541

Switchboard

902 118 541

Fax

902 118 539

Corporate
Technical Support
Customer Care

Sweden (Upplands Vasby)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 46
City Code: 8

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 41
City Code: 22

91 722 92 00

Fax

91 722 95 83

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: swe_support@dell.com

E-mail Support for Latitude and Inspiron:
Swe-nbk_kats@dell.com

E-mail Support for OptiPlex: Swe_kats@dell.com

E-mail Support for Servers: Nordic_server_support@dell.com

Technical Support

08 590 05 199

Relational Customer Care

08 590 05 642

Home/Small Business Customer Care

08 587 70 527
20 140 14 44

Fax Technical Support

08 590 05 594

Sales

08 590 05 185

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: swisstech@dell.com

E-mail for French-speaking HSB and Corporate Customers:
support.euro.dell.com/ch/fr/emaildell/

Technical Support (Home and Small Business)

0844 811 411

Technical Support (Corporate)

0844 822 844

Customer Care (Home and Small Business)

0848 802 202

Customer Care (Corporate)
Fax
Switchboard
Taiwan

902 118 546

Switchboard

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support

Switzerland (Geneva)

902 100 130

Technical Support (portable and desktop computers)

0848 821 721
022 799 01 90
022 799 01 01
toll-free: 00801 86 1011

Technical Support (servers)

toll-free: 0080 60 1256

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 0080 651 228

Country Code: 886

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 0080 651 227

Thailand

Technical Support

International Access Code:
001

Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia)

International Access Code:
002

Country Code: 66

Sales

toll-free: 0880 060 07
604 633 4949
toll-free: 0880 060 09

Trinidad/Tobago

General Support

1-800-805-8035

Turks and Caicos Islands

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

U.K. (Bracknell)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Country Code: 44
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
City Code: 1344

Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees])

0870 908 0500

Technical Support (direct/PAD and general)

0870 908 0800

Global Accounts Customer Care

01344 373 186

Home and Small Business Customer Care

0870 906 0010

Corporate Customer Care

01344 373 185

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

Uruguay

General Support

U.S.A. (Austin, Texas)

Automated Order-Status Service

toll-free: 1-800-433-9014

AutoTech (portable and desktop computers)

toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

International Access Code:
011
Country Code: 1

toll-free: 000-413-598-2521

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

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

Back to Contents Page

Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers)

toll-free: 1-888-798-7561

Software and Peripherals Sales

toll-free: 1-800-671-3355

Back to Contents Page

Glossary
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W X Z

Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer.

A
AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable into an electrical outlet.
ACPI — advanced configuration and power interface — A power management specification that enables Microsoft® Windows® operating systems to put a
computer in standby or hibernate mode to conserve the amount of electrical power allocated to each device attached to the computer.
AGP — accelerated graphics port — A dedicated graphics port that allows system memory to be used for video-related tasks. AGP delivers a smooth, true-color
video image because of the faster interface between the video circuitry and the computer memory.
antivirus software — A program designed to identify, quarantine, and/or delete viruses from your computer.
APR — advanced port replicator — A docking device that allows you to conveniently use a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and other devices with your portable
computer.
ASF — alert standards format — A standard to define a mechanism for reporting hardware and software alerts to a management console. ASF is designed to
be platform- and operating system-independent.

B
backup — A copy of a program or data file on a floppy disk, CD, or hard drive. As a precaution, back up the data files from your hard drive regularly.
battery — An internal power source used to operate portable computers when not connected to an AC adapter and an electrical outlet.
battery life span — The length of time (years) during which a portable computer battery is able to be depleted and recharged.
battery operating time — The length of time (minutes or hours) that a portable computer battery holds a charge while powering the computer.
BIOS — basic input/output system — A program (or utility) that serves as an interface between the computer hardware and the operating system. Unless you
understand what effect the settings have on the computer, do not change the settings for this program. Also referred to as the system setup program.
bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your computer.
boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from which the computer attempts to boot.
bootable CD — A CD that you can use to start your computer. In case your hard drive is damaged or your computer has a virus, ensure that you always have
a bootable CD or floppy disk available. Your Drivers and Utilities or Resource CD is a bootable CD.
bootable disk — A disk that you can use to start your computer. In case your hard drive is damaged or your computer has a virus, ensure that you always
have a bootable CD or floppy disk available.
bps — bits per second — The standard unit for measuring data transmission speed.
BTU — British thermal unit — A measurement of heat output.
bus — A communication pathway between the components in your computer.
bus speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast a bus can transfer information.
byte — The basic data unit used by your computer. A byte is usually equal to 8 bits.

C
C — Celsius — A temperature measurement system where 0° is the freezing point and 100° is the boiling point of water.
cache — A special high-speed storage mechanism which can be either a reserved section of main memory or an independent high-speed storage device. The
cache enhances the efficiency of many microprocessor operations.
L1 cache — Primary cache stored inside the microprocessor.
L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external to the microprocessor or incorporated into the microprocessor architecture.
carnet — An international customs document that facilitates temporary imports into foreign countries. Also known as a merchandise passport.
CD — compact disc — An optical form of storage media, typically used for audio and software programs.
CD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read data from CDs.

CD player — The software used to play music CDs. The CD player displays a window with buttons that you use to play a CD.
CD-R — CD recordable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be recorded only once onto a CD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written
over.
CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten).
CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times,
but you can write to CD-R discs only once.
CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read CDs and DVDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R
(recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once.
clock speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast computer components that are connected to the system bus operate.
COA — Certificate of Authenticity — The Windows alpha-numeric code located on a sticker on your computer. You may need the COA to complete the operating
system setup or reinstallation. Also referred to as the Product Key or Product ID.
Control Panel — A Windows utility that allows you to modify operating system and hardware settings, such as display settings.
controller — A chip that controls the transfer of data between the microprocessor and memory or between the microprocessor and devices.
CRIMM — continuity rambus in-line memory module — A special module that has no memory chips and is used to fill unused RIMM slots.
cursor — The marker on a display or screen that shows where the next keyboard, touch pad, or mouse action will occur. It often is a blinking solid line, an
underline character, or a small arrow.

D
DDR SDRAM — double-data-rate SDRAM — A type of SDRAM that doubles the data burst cycle, improving system performance.
device — Hardware such as a disk drive, printer, or keyboard that is installed in or connected to your computer.
device driver — See driver.
DIN connector — A round, six-pin connector that conforms to DIN (Deutsche Industrie-Norm) standards; it is typically used to connect PS/2 keyboard or mouse
cable connectors.
disk striping — A technique for spreading data over multiple disk drives. Disk striping can speed up operations that retrieve data from disk storage.
Computers that use disk striping generally allow the user to select the data unit size or stripe width.
DMA — direct memory access — A channel that allows certain types of data transfer between RAM and a device to bypass the microprocessor.
docking device — See APR.
DMTF — Distributed Management Task Force — A consortium of hardware and software companies who develop management standards for distributed
desktop, network, enterprise, and Internet environments.
domain — A group of computers, programs, and devices on a network that are administered as a unit with common rules and procedures for use by a specific
group of users. A user logs on to the domain to gain access to the resources.
DRAM — dynamic random-access memory — Memory that stores information in integrated circuits containing capacitors.
driver — Software that allows the operating system to control a device such as a printer. Many devices do not work properly if the correct driver is not
installed in the computer.
DSL — Digital Subscriber Line — A technology that provides a constant, high-speed Internet connection through an analog telephone line.
dual display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as an extension of your display. Also referred to as extended display mode.
DVD — digital versatile disc — A disc usually used to store movies. DVDs are double-sided, whereas CDs are single-sided. DVD drives read most CD media as
well.
DVD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read data from DVDs and CDs.
DVD player — The software used to watch DVD movies. The DVD player displays a window with buttons that you use to watch a movie.
DVD+RW — DVD rewritable — A rewritable version of a DVD. Data can be written to a DVD+RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). (DVD+RW
technology is different from DVD-RW technology.)
DVD+RW drive — A drive that can read DVDs and most CD media and write to DVD+RW (rewritable DVDs) discs.
DVI — digital video interface — A standard for digital transmission between a computer and a digital video display; the DVI adapter works through the
computer's integrated graphics.

E
ECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special circuitry for testing the accuracy of data as it passes in and out of memory.
ECP — extended capabilities port — A parallel connector design that provides improved bidirectional data transmission. Similar to EPP, ECP uses direct memory
access to transfer data and often improves performance.
EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives and CD drives.

EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical interference caused by electromagnetic radiation.
ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency requirements that decrease the overall consumption of electricity.
EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector design that provides bidirectional data transmission.
ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of static electricity. ESD can damage integrated circuits found in computer and communications equipment.
expansion card — A circuit board that installs in an expansion slot on the system board in some computers, expanding the capabilities of the computer.
Examples include video, modem, and sound cards.
expansion slot — A connector on the system board (in some computers) where you insert an expansion card, connecting it to the system bus.
Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™ computer. Use the Express Service Code when contacting Dell for assistance.
Express Service Code service may not be available in some countries.
extended display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as an extension of your display. Also referred to as dual display mode.
extended PC Card — A PC Card that extends beyond the edge of the PC Card slot when installed.

F
Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement system where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling point of water.
FCC — Federal Communications Commission — A U.S. agency responsible for enforcing communications-related regulations that state how much radiation
computers and other electronic equipment can emit.
floppy drive — A disk drive that can read and write to floppy disks.
folder — A term used to describe space on a disk or drive where files are organized and grouped. Files in a folder can be viewed and ordered in various ways,
such as alphabetically, by date, and by size.
format — The process that prepares a drive or disk for file storage. When a drive or disk is formatted, the existing information on it is lost.
FSB — front side bus — The data path and physical interface between the microprocessor and RAM.
FTP — file transfer protocol — A standard Internet protocol used to exchange files between computers connected to the Internet.

G
G — gravity — A measurement of weight and force.
GB — gigabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1024 MB (1,073,741,824 bytes). When used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often
rounded to 1,000,000,000 bytes.
GHz — gigahertz — A measurement of frequency that equals one thousand million Hz, or one thousand MHz. The speeds for computer microprocessors, buses,
and interfaces are often measured in GHz.
graphics mode — A video mode that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors. Graphics modes can display an unlimited variety of
shapes and fonts.
GUI — graphical user interface — Software that interacts with the user by means of menus, windows, and icons. Most programs that operate on the Windows
operating systems are GUIs.

H
hard drive — A drive that reads and writes data on a hard disk. The terms hard drive and hard disk are often used interchangeably.
heat sink — A metal plate on some microprocessors that helps dissipate heat.
help file — A file that contains descriptive or instructional information about a product. Some help files are associated with a particular program, such as Help in
Microsoft Word. Other help files function as stand-alone reference sources. Help files typically have a filename extension of .hlp or .chm.
hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves everything in memory to a reserved space on the hard drive and then turns off the computer.
When you restart the computer, the memory information that was saved to the hard drive is automatically restored.
HTML — hypertext markup language — A set of codes inserted into an Internet web page intended for display on an Internet browser.
HTTP — hypertext transfer protocol — A protocol for exchanging files between computers connected to the Internet.
Hz — hertz — A unit of frequency measurement that equals 1 cycle per second. Computers and electronic devices are often measured in kilohertz (kHz),
megahertz (MHz), gigahertz (GHz), or terahertz (THz).

I
IC — Industry Canada — The Canadian regulatory body responsible for regulating emissions from electronic equipment, much as the FCC does in the United
States.
IC — integrated circuit — A semiconductor wafer, or chip, on which thousands or millions of tiny electronic components are fabricated for use in computer,

audio, and video equipment.
IDE — integrated device electronics — An interface for mass storage devices in which the controller is integrated into the hard drive or CD drive.
IEEE 1394 — Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. — A high-performance serial bus used to connect IEEE 1394-compatible devices, such as
digital cameras and DVD players, to the computer.
infrared sensor — A port that allows you to transfer data between the computer and infrared-compatible devices without using a cable connection.
integrated — Usually refers to components that are physically located on the computer's system board. Also referred to as built-in.
I/O — input/output — An operation or device that enters and extracts data from your computer. Keyboards and printers are I/O devices.
I/O address — An address in RAM that is associated with a specific device (such as a serial connector, parallel connector, or expansion slot) and allows the
microprocessor to communicate with that device.
IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway assigned to a specific device so that the device can communicate with the microprocessor. Each device
connection must be assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share the same IRQ assignment, you cannot operate both devices simultaneously.
ISP — Internet service provider — A company that allows you to access its host server to connect directly to the Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access
websites. The ISP typically provides you with a software package, user name, and access phone numbers for a fee.

K
Kb — kilobit — A unit of data that equals 1024 bits. A measurement of the capacity of memory integrated circuits.
KB — kilobyte — A unit of data that equals 1024 bytes but is often referred to as 1000 bytes.
keyboard shortcut — A command requiring you to press multiple keys at the same time. Also referred to as a key combination.
kHz — kilohertz — A measurement of frequency that equals 1000 Hz.

L
LAN — local area network — A computer network covering a small area. A LAN usually is confined to a building or a few nearby buildings. A LAN can be
connected to another LAN over any distance through telephone lines and radio waves to form a wide area network (WAN).
LCD — liquid crystal display — The technology used by portable computer and flat-panel displays.
LED — light-emitting diode — An electronic component that emits light to indicate the status of the computer.
local bus — A data bus that provides a fast throughput for devices to the microprocessor.
LPT — line print terminal — The designation for a parallel connection to a printer or other parallel device.

M
Mb — megabit — A measurement of memory chip capacity that equals 1024 Kb.
Mbps — megabits per second — One million bits per second. This measurement is typically used for transmission speeds for networks and modems.
MB — megabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB equals 1024 KB. When used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is
often rounded to 1,000,000 bytes.
MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes per second. This measurement is typically used for data transfer ratings.
memory — A temporary data storage area inside your computer. Because the data in memory is not permanent, it is recommended that you frequently save
your files while you are working on them, and always save your files before you shut down the computer. Your computer can contain several different forms of
memory, such as RAM, ROM, and video memory. Frequently, the word memory is used as a synonym for RAM.
memory address — A specific location where data is temporarily stored in RAM.
memory mapping — The process by which the computer assigns memory addresses to physical locations at start-up. Devices and software can then identify
information that the microprocessor can access.
memory module — A small circuit board containing memory chips, which connects to the system board.
MHz — megahertz — A measure of frequency that equals 1 million cycles per second. The speeds for computer microprocessors, buses, and interfaces are
often measured in MHz.
microprocessor — A computer chip that interprets and executes program instructions. Sometimes the microprocessor is referred to as the processor or the
CPU (central processing unit).
modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC
Card, and internal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail.
module bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module.
monitor — The high-resolution TV-like device that displays computer output.
mouse — A pointing device that controls the movement of the cursor on your screen. Typically you roll the mouse over a hard, flat surface to move the pointer

or cursor on your screen.
ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second. Access times of storage devices are often measured in ms.

N
network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with
an adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interface controller).
NIC — See network adapter.
notification area — The section of the Windows taskbar that contains icons for providing quick access to programs and computer functions, such as the clock,
volume control, and print status. Also referred to as system tray.
ns — nanosecond — A measure of time that equals one billionth of a second.
NVRAM — nonvolatile random access memory — A type of memory that stores data when the computer is turned off or loses its external power source. NVRAM
is used for maintaining computer configuration information such as date, time, and other system setup options that you can set.

O
Optical Drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read or write data from CDs, DVDs, or DVD+RWs. Example of optical drives include CD drives, DVD
drives, CD-RW drives, and CD-RW/DVD combo drives.

P
parallel connector — An I/O port often used to connect a parallel printer to your computer. Also referred to as an LPT port.
partition — A physical storage area on a hard drive that is assigned to one or more logical storage areas known as logical drives. Each partition can contain
multiple logical drives.
PC Card — A removable I/O card adhering to the PCMCIA standard. Modems and network adapters are common types of PC Cards.
PCI — peripheral component interconnect — PCI is a local bus that supports 32-and 64-bit data paths, providing a high-speed data path between the
microprocessor and devices such as video, drives, and networks.
PCMCIA — Personal Computer Memory Card International Association — The organization that establishes standards for PC Cards.
PIN — personal identification number — A sequence of numerals and/or letters used to restrict unauthorized access to computer networks and other secure
systems.
PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two devices through the microprocessor as part of the data path.
pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are arranged in rows and columns to create an image. A video resolution, such as 800 x 600, is expressed as
the number of pixels across by the number of pixels up and down.
Plug-and-Play — The ability of the computer to automatically configure devices. Plug and Play provides automatic installation, configuration, and compatibility
with existing hardware if the BIOS, operating system, and all devices are Plug and Play compliant.
POST — power-on self-test — Diagnostics programs, loaded automatically by the BIOS, that perform basic tests on the major computer components, such as
memory, hard drives, and video. If no problems are detected during POST, the computer continues the start-up.
program — Any software that processes data for you, including spreadsheet, word processor, database, and game packages. Programs require an operating
system to run.
PS/2 — personal system/2 — A type of connector for attaching a PS/2-compatible keyboard, mouse, or keypad.
PXE — pre-boot execution environment — A WfM (Wired for Management) standard that allows networked computers that do not have an operating system to
be configured and started remotely.

R
RAID — redundant array of independent disks — A system of two or more drives working together for performance and fault tolerance. RAID drives are
typically used on servers and high-end PCs. The three most common RAID levels are 0, 3, and 5:
l
l
l

Level 0: Provides data striping but no redundancy. Level 0 improves performance but does not provide fault tolerance.
Level 3: Same as Level 0, but also reserves one dedicated drive for error correction data, providing good performance and some level of fault
tolerance.
Level 5: Provides data striping at the byte level and also stripe error correction information, resulting in excellent performance and good fault
tolerance.

RAM — random-access memory — The primary temporary storage area for program instructions and data. Any information stored in RAM is lost when you shut
down your computer.
readme file — A text file included with a software package or hardware product. Typically, readme files provide installation information and describe new
product enhancements or corrections that have not yet been documented.
read-Only — Data and/or files you can view but cannot edit or delete. A file can have read-only status if:
l

It resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD.

It is located on a network in a directory and the system administrator has assigned rights only to specific individuals.

refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines are recharged (sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency). The
higher the refresh rate, the less video flicker can be seen by the human eye.
resolution — The sharpness and clarity of an image produced by a printer or displayed on a monitor. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image.
RFI — radio frequency interference — Interference that is generated at typical radio frequencies, in the range of 10 kHz to 100,000 MHz. Radio frequencies are
at the lower end of the electromagnetic frequency spectrum and are more likely to have interference than the higher frequency radiations, such as infrared
and light.
ROM — read-only memory — Memory that stores data and programs that cannot be deleted or written to by the computer. ROM, unlike RAM, retains its
contents after you shut down your computer. Some programs essential to the operation of your computer reside in ROM.
RPM — revolutions per minute — The number of rotations that occur per minute. Hard drive speed is often measured in rpm.
RTC — real time clock — Battery-powered clock on the system board that keeps the date and time after you shut down the computer.
RTCRST — real-time clock reset — A jumper on the system board of some computers that can often be used for troubleshooting problems.

S
ScanDisk — A Microsoft utility that checks files, folders, and the hard disk's surface for errors. ScanDisk often runs when you restart the computer after it has
stopped responding.
SDRAM — synchronous dynamic random-access memory — A type of DRAM that is synchronized with the optimal clock speed of the microprocessor.
serial connector — An I/O port often used to connect devices such as a handheld digital device or digital camera to your computer.
service tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for
customer service or technical support.
setup program — A program that is used to install and configure hardware and software. The setup.exe or install.exe program comes with most Windows
software packages. Setup program differs from system setup program.
shortcut — An icon that provides quick access to frequently used programs, files, folders, and drives. When you place a shortcut on your Windows desktop
and double-click the icon, you can open its corresponding folder or file without having to find it first. Shortcut icons do not change the location of files. If you
delete a shortcut, the original file is not affected. Also, you can rename a shortcut icon.
shutdown — The process of closing windows and exiting programs, exiting the operating system, and turning off your computer. You can lose data if you turn
off your computer before completing a shutdown.
smart card — A card that is embedded with a microprocessor and a memory chip. Smart cards can be used to authenticate a user on computers equipped for
smart cards.
software — Anything that can be stored electronically, such as computer files or programs.
S/PDIF — Sony/Philips Digital Interface — An audio transfer file format that allows the transfer of audio from one file to another without converting it to and
from an analog format, which could degrade the quality of the file.
standby mode — A power management mode that shuts down all unnecessary computer operations to save energy.
surge protectors — Prevent voltage spikes, such as those that may occur during an electrical storm, from entering the computer through the electrical outlet.
Surge protectors do not protect against lightning strikes or against brownouts, which occur when the voltage drops more than 20 percent below the normal
AC-line voltage level.
Network connections cannot be protected by surge protectors. Always disconnect the network cable from the network connector during electrical storms.
SVGA — super-video graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers. Typical SVGA resolutions are 800 x 600 and 1024 x 768. The number of
colors and resolution that a program displays depends on the capabilities of the monitor, the video controller and its drivers, and the amount of video memory
installed in the computer.
S-video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or digital audio device to the computer.
SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 1024.
SXGA+ — super-extended graphics array plus — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1400 x 1050.
system board — The main circuit board in your computer. Also known as the motherboard.
system setup program — A utility that serves as an interface between the computer hardware and the operating system. System setup allows you to
configure user-selectable options in the BIOS, such as date and time or system password. Unless you understand what effect the settings have on the
computer, do not change the settings for this program.
system tray — See notification area.

T
TAPI — telephony application programming interface — Enables Windows programs to operate with a wide variety of telephony devices, including voice, data,
fax, and video.
text editor — A program used to create and edit files that contain only text; for example, Windows Notepad uses a text editor. Text editors do not usually
provide word wrap or formatting functionality (the option to underline, change fonts, and so on).
travel module — A plastic device designed to fit inside the module bay of a portable computer to reduce the weight of the computer.

U
UPS — uninterruptible power supply — A backup power source used when the electrical power fails or drops to an unacceptable voltage level. A UPS keeps a
computer running for a limited amount of time when there is no electrical power. UPS systems typically provide surge suppression and may also provide
voltage regulation. Small UPS systems provide battery power for a few minutes to enable you to shut down your computer.
USB — universal serial bus — A hardware interface for a low-speed device such as a USB-compatible keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner, set of speakers,
printer, broadband devices (DSL and cable modems), imaging devices, or storage devices. Devices are plugged directly in to a 4-pin socket on your computer
or into a multi-port hub that plugs in to your computer. USB devices can be connected and disconnected while the computer is turned on, and they can also be
daisy-chained together.
UTP — unshielded twisted pair — Describes a type of cable used in most telephone networks and some computer networks. Pairs of unshielded wires are
twisted to protect against electromagnetic interference, rather than relying on a metal sheath around each pair of wires to protect against interference.
UXGA — ultra extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1600 x 1200.

V
video controller — The circuitry on a video card or on the system board (in computers with an integrated video controller) that provides the video
capabilities—in combination with the monitor—for your computer.
video memory — Memory that consists of memory chips dedicated to video functions. Video memory is usually faster than system memory. The amount of
video memory installed primarily influences the number of colors that a program can display.
video mode — A mode that describes how text and graphics are displayed on a monitor. Graphics-based software, such as Windows operating systems,
displays in video modes that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors. Character-based software, such as text editors, displays in
video modes that can be defined as x columns by y rows of characters.
video resolution — See resolution.
virus — A program that is designed to inconvenience you or to destroy data stored on your computer. A virus program moves from one computer to another
through an infected disk, software downloaded from the Internet, or e-mail attachments. When an infected program starts, its embedded virus also starts.
A common type of virus is a boot virus, which is stored in the boot sectors of a floppy disk. If the floppy disk is left in the drive when the computer is shut down
and then turned on, the computer is infected when it reads the boot sectors of the floppy disk expecting to find the operating system. If the computer is
infected, the boot virus may replicate itself onto all the floppy disks that are read or written in that computer until the virus is eradicated.
V — volt — The measurement of electric potential or electromotive force. One V appears across a resistance of 1 ohm when a current of 1 ampere flows
through that resistance.

W
W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt.
WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of
power for 1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours.
wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in
your favorite picture and make it wallpaper.
write-protected — Files or media that cannot be changed. Use write-protection when you want to protect data from being changed or destroyed. To writeprotect a 3.5-inch floppy disk, slide its write-protect tab to the open position.

X
XGA — extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1024 x 768.

Z
ZIF — zero insertion force — A type of socket or connector that allows a computer chip to be installed or removed with no stress applied to either the chip or
its socket.
Zip — A popular data compression format. Files that have been compressed with the Zip format are called Zip files and usually have a filename extension
of .zip. A special kind of zipped file is a self-extracting file, which has a filename extension of .exe. You can unzip a self-extracting file by double-clicking it.
Zip drive — A high-capacity floppy drive developed by Iomega Corporation that uses 3.5-inch removable disks called Zip disks. Zip disks are slightly larger than
regular floppy disks, about twice as thick, and hold up to 100 MB of data.

Back to Contents Page

Memory
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

Memory Installation Guidelines
For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, look under "Memory" in the Technical Specifications section.
NOTICE: Before you install new memory modules, download the most recent BIOS for your computer from the Dell Support website at
support.dell.com.

DDR Memory Overview
DDR memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology. If the DDR memory modules are not installed in matched
pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance.
NOTE: Always install DDR memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.

The recommended memory configurations are:
l

A memory module installed in connector DIMM_1
or

A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2
or

A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 and another matched pair installed in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4

NOTICE: Do not install ECC memory modules.

If you install mixed pairs of PC2700 (DDR 333-MHz) and PC3200 (DDR 400-MHz) memory, the modules function at the slowest speed installed.

Be sure to install a single memory module in DIMM_1, the connector closest to the processor, before you install modules in the other connectors.

The actual speed of the SDRAM memory channel will depend on the speed of the processor's front side bus.

Installing Memory in the Small Desktop and Small Mini-Tower Computers

A matched pair of memory modules in connectors
DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 (white securing clips)
B matched pair of memory modules in connectors
DIMM_3 and DIMM_4 (black securing clips)
NOTE: The small form-factor computer has two memory module connectors: DIMM_1 (channel A) and DIMM_2 (channel B).
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.

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® 2000 and
Windows XP, can only use a maximum of 4 GB of address space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is slightly 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.
The following components require memory address space:
l

System ROM

APIC(s)

Integrated PCI devices, such as network connectors

PCI and AGP cards

The AGP aperture size specified in system setup

At start-up, the BIOS identifies the components that require address space. The BIOS dynamically calculates the amount of reserved address space required.
The BIOS then subtracts the reserved address space from 4 GB to determine the amount of usable space.
l

If the total installed computer memory is less than the usable space, all installed computer memory is available for use only by the operating system.

If the total installed computer memory is equal to or greater than the usable address space, a small portion of installed memory is available for use by
the operating system.

Installing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

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

1 memory connector closest to microprocessor

2 securing clips (2)
3 connector
8.

Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.

cutouts (2)

memory module

notch

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.
9.

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.

10.

Close the computer cover.

11.

Attach the computer stand (optional).

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

12.

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
13.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
14.

The computer detects that the new memory does not match the existing configuration information and generates the following message:

The amount of system memory has changed.
Strike the F1 key to continue, F2 to run the setup utility
15.

Press to enter system setup and check the value for System Memory.

The computer should have changed the value of System Memory to reflect the newly installed memory capacity, speed, and mode (single or dual).
Verify that the information is correct. If it is correct, skip to step 17.
16.

If the memory total is incorrect, turn off and disconnect your computer and devices from their electrical outlets. Open the computer cover and check the
installed memory modules to ensure that they are seated properly in their sockets. Then repeat steps 10, 11, and 12.

17.

When the System Memory total is correct, press to exit system setup.

18.

Run the Dell Diagnostics to verify that the memory modules are operating properly.

Removing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

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.

Back to Contents Page

Regulatory Notices
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is any signal or emission, radiated in free space or conducted along power or signal leads, that endangers the functioning
of a radio navigation or other safety service or seriously degrades, obstructs, or repeatedly interrupts a licensed radio communications service. Radio
communications services include but are not limited to AM/FM commercial broadcast, television, cellular services, radar, air-traffic control, pager, and Personal
Communication Services (PCS). These licensed services, along with unintentional radiators such as digital devices, including computer systems, contribute to
the electromagnetic environment.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is the ability of items of electronic equipment to function properly together in the electronic environment. While this
computer system has been designed and determined to be compliant with regulatory agency limits for EMI, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference with radio communications services, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
l

Reorient the receiving antenna.

Relocate the computer with respect to the receiver.

Move the computer away from the receiver.

Plug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer and the receiver are on different branch circuits.

If necessary, consult a Dell Technical Support representative or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions.
Dell™ computer systems are designed, tested, and classified for their intended electromagnetic environment. These electromagnetic environment
classifications generally refer to the following harmonized definitions:
l

Class A is typically for business or industrial environments.

Class B is typically for residential environments.

Information Technology Equipment (ITE), including peripherals, expansion cards, printers, input/output (I/O) devices, monitors, and so on, that are integrated
into or connected to the system should match the electromagnetic environment classification of the computer system.
A Notice About Shielded Signal Cables: Use only shielded cables for connecting peripherals to any Dell device to reduce the possibility of interference
with radio communications services. Using shielded cables ensures that you maintain the appropriate EMC classification for the intended environment.
For parallel printers, a cable is available from Dell. If you prefer, you can order a cable from Dell on the World Wide Web at
accessories.us.dell.com/sna/category.asp?category_id=4117.
Most Dell computer systems are classified for Class B environments. However, the inclusion of certain options can change the rating of some configurations to
Class A. To determine the electromagnetic classification for your system or device, see the following sections specific for each regulatory agency. Each section
provides country-specific EMC/EMI or product safety information.

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Most Dell 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:
l

This device may not cause harmful interference.

This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Class A
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference with radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case you will
be required to correct the interference at your own expense.

Class B
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction manual, may cause interference with radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
l

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:
l

Model numbers: DHP, DHS, DHM

Company name:
Dell Computer Corporation
One Dell Way
Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA
512-338-4400

IC Notice (Canada Only)
Most Dell computer systems (and other Dell digital apparatus) are classified by the Industry Canada (IC) Interference-Causing Equipment Standard #3 (ICES003) as Class B digital devices. To determine which classification (Class A or B) applies to your computer system (or other Dell digital apparatus), examine all
registration labels located on the bottom, side, or the back panel of your computer (or other digital apparatus). A statement in the form of "IC Class A ICES003" or "IC Class B ICES-003" will be located on one of these labels. Note that Industry Canada regulations provide that changes or modifications not
expressly approved by Dell could void your authority to operate this equipment.

CE Notice (European Union)
Marking by the symbol
indicates compliance of this Dell computer to the EMC Directive and the Low Voltage Directive of the European Union. Such marking
is indicative that this Dell system meets the following technical standards:
l

EN 55022 — "Information Technology Equipment — Radio Disturbance Characteristics — Limits and Methods of Measurement."

EN 55024 — "Information Technology Equipment - Immunity Characteristics - Limits and Methods of Measurement."

EN 61000-3-2 — "Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) - Part 3: Limits - Section 2: Limits for Harmonic Current Emissions (Equipment Input Current Up to
and Including 16 A Per Phase)."

EN 61000-3-3 — "Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) - Part 3: Limits - Section 3: Limitation of Voltage Fluctuations and Flicker in Low-Voltage Supply
Systems for Equipment With Rated Current Up to and Including 16 A."

EN 60950 — "Safety of Information Technology Equipment."

NOTE: EN 55022 emissions requirements provide for two classifications:
l

Class A is for typical commercial areas.

Class B is for typical domestic areas.

RF INTERFERENCE WARNING: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio frequency (RF) interference, in which
case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
A "Declaration of Conformity" in accordance with the preceding directives and standards has been made and is on file at Dell Computer Corporation Products
Europe BV, Limerick, Ireland.

ENERGY STAR® Compliance
Certain configurations of Dell computers comply with the requirements set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for energy-efficient computers.
If the front panel of your computer bears the ENERGY STAR® Emblem, or if an ENERGY STAR® Emblem screen appears when you turn on your computer, your
original configuration complies with these requirements and all ENERGY STAR® power management features of the computer are enabled.
NOTE: Any Dell computer bearing the ENERGY STAR® Emblem on the computer or on a start-up screen is certified to comply with EPA ENERGY STAR®
requirements as configured when shipped by Dell. Any changes you make to this configuration (such as installing additional expansion cards or drives) may
increase the computer's power consumption beyond the limits set by the EPA's ENERGY STAR® Computers program.

ENERGY STAR® Emblem
The EPA's ENERGY STAR® Computers program is a joint effort between the EPA and computer manufacturers to reduce air pollution by promoting energyefficient computer products. The EPA estimates that use of ENERGY STAR® computer products can save computer users up to two billion dollars annually in
electricity costs. In turn, this reduction in electricity usage can reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, the gas primarily responsible for the greenhouse effect, and
sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, the primary causes of acid rain.
You can also help reduce electricity usage and its side effects by turning off your computer when it is not in use for extended periods of time, particularly at
night and on weekends.

Simplified Chinese Class A Warning Notice (China Only)
On Class A systems, the following warning will appear near the regulatory label:
Warning: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference, in which case the user may be required to
take adequate measures.

EN 55022 Compliance (Czech Republic Only)

VCCI Notice (Japan Only)
Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) as Class B information technology equipment (ITE).
However, the inclusion of certain options can change the rating of some configurations to Class A. ITE, including peripherals, expansion cards, printers,
input/output (I/O) devices, monitors, and so on, integrated into or connected to the system should match the electromagnetic environment classification (Class
A or B) of the computer system.
To determine which classification applies to your computer system, examine the regulatory labels/markings (see "VCCI Class A ITE Regulatory Mark" and
"VCCI Class B ITE Regulatory Mark") located on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer. Once you have determined your system's VCCI classification,
read the appropriate VCCI notice.

Class A ITE

This is a Class A product based on the standard of the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) for information technology equipment. If this
equipment is used in a domestic environment, radio disturbance may arise. When such trouble occurs, the user may be required to take corrective actions.

VCCI Class A ITE Regulatory Mark
If the regulatory label includes the following marking, your computer is a Class A product:

Class B ITE

This is a Class B product based on the standard of the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) for information technology equipment. If this
equipment is used near a radio or television receiver in a domestic environment, it may cause radio interference. Install and use the equipment according to
the instruction manual.

VCCI Class B ITE Regulatory Mark
If the regulatory label includes the following marking, your computer is a Class B product:

MIC Notice (Republic of Korea Only)
To determine which classification (Class A or B) applies to your computer (or other Dell digital device), examine the Republic of Korean Ministry of Information
and Communications (MIC) registration labels located on your computer (or other Dell digital device). The MIC label may be located separately from the other
regulatory marking applied to your product. Line two of the label identifies the emissions class for the product—"(A)" for Class A products or "(B)" for Class B
products.
NOTE: MIC emissions requirements provide for two classifications:
l

Class A devices are for business purposes.

Class B devices are for nonbusiness purposes.

Class A Device

Please note that this device has been approved for business purposes with regard to electromagnetic interference. If you find that this device is not suitable
for your use, you may exchange it for a nonbusiness-purpose device.

MIC Class A Regulatory Label
If the regulatory label includes the following marking, your computer is a Class A product:

Class B Device

Please note that this device has been approved for nonbusiness purposes and may be used in any environment, including residential areas.

Polish Center for Testing and Certification Notice
The equipment should draw power from a socket with an attached protection circuit (a 3-prong socket). All equipment that works together (computer,
monitor, printer, and so on) should have the same power supply source.
The phasing conductor of the room's electrical installation should have a reserve short-circuit protection device in the form of a fuse with a nominal value no
larger than 16 amperes (A).

To completely switch off the equipment, the power supply cable must be removed from the power supply socket, which should be located near the equipment
and easily accessible.
A protection mark "B" confirms that the equipment is in compliance with the protection usage requirements of standards PN-93/T-42107 and PN-EN 55022:
1996.

BSMI Notice (Taiwan Only)

If you find a

mark on the regulatory

label on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, the following section is applicable:

NOM Information (Mexico Only)
The following information is provided on the device(s) described in this document in compliance with the requirements of the official Mexican standards (NOM):
Exporter:

Dell Computer Corporation
One Dell Way
Round Rock, TX 78682

Importer:

Dell Computer de México,
S.A. de C.V.
Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11° Piso
Col. Lomas Altas
11950 México, D.F.

Ship to:

Dell Computer de México,
S.A. de C.V. al Cuidado de Kuehne &
Nagel de México S. de R.I.
Avenida Soles No. 55
Col. Peñon de los Baños
15520 México, D.F.

Model numbers:

DHP, DHS, and DHM

Supply voltage:

115/230 VAC

Frequency:

50/60 Hz

Input current rating: DHP — 1.5/0.75 A
DHS — 2.0/1.0 A
DHM — 3.0/1.5 A

Back to Contents Page

CAUTION: Safety Instructions
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential
damage.

SAFETY: General
l

Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instructions closely.

To help prevent electric shock, plug the computer and device power cables into properly grounded electrical outlets. These cables are equipped with 3prong plugs to help ensure proper grounding. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from a cable. If you must use an extension
cable, use a 3-wire cable with properly grounded plugs.

To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not use your computer during an electrical storm.

To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not connect or disconnect any cables or perform maintenance or reconfiguration of this product
during an electrical storm.

If your computer includes a modem, the cable used with the modem should be manufactured with a minimum wire size of 26 American wire gauge
(AWG) and an FCC-compliant RJ-11 modular plug.

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.

To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting a device from the computer.

To avoid shorting out your computer when disconnecting a network cable, first unplug the cable from the network adapter on the back of your
computer, and then from the network jack. When reconnecting a network cable to your computer, first plug the cable into the network jack, and then
into the network adapter.

To help protect your computer from sudden, transient increases and decreases in electrical power, use a surge suppressor, line conditioner, or
uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

Ensure that nothing rests on your computer's cables and that the cables are not located where they can be stepped on or tripped over.

Do not push any objects into the openings of your computer. Doing so can cause fire or electric shock by shorting out interior components.

Keep your computer away from radiators and heat sources. Also, do not block cooling vents. Avoid placing loose papers underneath your computer; do
not place your computer in a closed-in wall unit or on a bed, sofa, or rug.

SAFETY: When Using Your Computer
As you use your computer, observe the following safe-handling guidelines.
CAUTION: Do not operate your computer with any cover(s) (including computer covers, bezels, filler brackets, front-panel inserts, and so on)
removed.
l

Your computer is equipped with one of the following:
¡

A fixed-voltage power supply — Computers with a fixed-voltage power supply do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and
operate at only one voltage (see the regulatory label on the outside of the computer for its operating voltage).

An auto-sensing voltage circuit — Computers with an auto-sensing voltage circuit do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and
automatically detect the correct operating voltage.

A manual voltage selection switch — Computers with a voltage selection switch on the back panel must be manually set to operate at the correct
operating voltage.

Set the switch to the position that most closely matches the voltage used in your location.
NOTICE: To help avoid damaging a computer with a manual voltage selection switch, set the switch for the voltage that most closely matches the AC
power available in your location. For Japan, the voltage selection switch must be set to the 115-V position even though the AC power available in Japan
is 100 V. Also, ensure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to operate with the AC power available in your location.

Before working inside the computer, unplug the computer to help prevent electric shock or system board damage. Certain system board components
continue to receive power any time the computer is connected to AC power.

SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer
Before you open the computer cover, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to service the computer yourself, except as explained in your online Dell™ documentation or in instructions otherwise
provided to you by Dell. Always follow installation and service instructions closely.
NOTICE: To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before removing a component from the
system board or disconnecting a device from the computer.
1.

Perform an orderly computer shutdown using the operating system menu.

Turn off your computer and any devices connected to the computer.

Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the chassis, such as the metal around the card-slot openings at the back of the computer,
before touching anything inside your computer.

While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal
components.
4.

Disconnect your computer and devices, including the monitor, from their electrical outlets. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines
from the computer.

Doing so reduces the potential for personal injury or shock.
In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate:
l

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 disconnecting 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.

Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket.
Hold a component such as a microprocessor chip by its edges, not by its pins.

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. Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the
address of the nearest battery deposit site.

SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge
Static electricity can harm delicate components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch
any of your computer's electronic components, such as the microprocessor. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.
You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD):
l

Do not remove components from their antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the component in your computer. Just before unwrapping
the antistatic packaging, discharge static electricity from your body.

When transporting an electrostatic sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or packaging.

Handle all electrostatic sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads.

SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits
CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.
CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain.

For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in "Ergonomic Computing Habits" when setting up and using your computer.

SAFETY: Battery Disposal

Your computer uses a lithium coin-cell battery. The lithium coin-cell battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to
replace it. However, should you need to replace it, see "Replacing the Battery."
Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.

Back to Contents Page

About Your Computer
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand

Front View

1 front panel
door

Open the door to use the front panel
connectors.

2 headphone
connector

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

3 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" 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.

4 CD/DVD driv
eject button

Press to eject a CD or DVD from the drive.

5 floppy-drive
eject button

Press to eject a floppy disk from the floppy
drive.

6 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.

7 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.

8 power
button

Press to turn on the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do
not turn off the computer by

pressing the power button for 6
seconds or longer. Instead, perform
an operating system shutdown.
NOTICE: If your operating system
has ACPI enabled, when you press
the power button the computer will
perform an operating system
shutdown.
9 power light

The power light illuminates and blinks or
remains solid to indicate different states:
l
l
l
l

No light — The computer is turned
off (S4, S5, or mechanical OFF)
Steady green — The computer is in
a normal operating state
Blinking green — The computer is in
a power-saving state (S1 or S3)
Blinking or solid amber — See
"Power Problems"

To exit from a power-saving state, press
the power button or use the keyboard or
the mouse if it is configured as a wake
device in the Windows Device Manager. For
more information about sleep states and
exiting from a power-saving state, see
"Power Management."
See "Diagnostic Lights" for a description of
light codes that can help you troubleshoot
problems with your computer.

Back View

1 back panel
connectors

Plug serial, USB, and other devices into
the appropriate connector.

2 card slots

Access connectors for any installed PCI
and AGP cards.

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

Your computer is equipped with either
an auto-sensing voltage selector or a
manual voltage selection switch.
Computers with an auto-sensing
voltage selector do not have a voltage
selection switch on the back panel and
can automatically detect the correct
operating voltage.
To help avoid damaging a computer
with a manual voltage selection switch,
set the switch for the voltage that most
closely matches the AC power available
in your location.
NOTICE: The voltage selection
switch must be set to the 115-V
position even though the AC
power available in Japan is 100 V.
Also, ensure that your monitor and
attached devices are electrically rated to
operate with the AC power available in
your location.

4 power
connector

Insert the power cable.

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.
NOTE: The integrated parallel connector
is automatically disabled if the computer
detects an installed card containing a
parallel connector configured to the same
address. For more information, see
"System Setup Options."

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.
If your computer is running the
Microsoft® Windows® 2000 or Windows
XP operating system, the necessary
mouse drivers have been installed on
your hard drive.

link integrity
light

network
adapter
connector

Green — A good connection exists
between a 10-Mbps network and
the computer.
Orange — A good connection
exists between a 100-Mbps
network and the computer.
Yellow — A good connection exists
between a 1-Gbps (or 1000-Mbps)
network and the computer.
Off — The computer is not
detecting a physical connection to
the network.

To attach your computer to a network or
broadband modem, connect one end of a
network cable to either a network jack or
your network device. Connect the other
end of the network cable to the network
adapter connector on the back panel of
your computer. A click indicates that the
network cable has been securely
attached.
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.

network
activity light

Flashes a yellow light when the
computer is transmitting or receiving
network data. A high volume of network
traffic may make this light appear to be in
a steady "on" state.

line-in
connector

Use the blue line-in connector (available
on computers with integrated sound) 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.
7

line-out
connector

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

microphone
connector

Use the pink microphone connector
(available on computers with integrated
sound) 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.

USB 2.0
connectors
(6)

Use the back USB connectors for devices
that typically remain connected, such as
printers and keyboards, and for bootable
USB devices.

10 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.

11 diagnostic
lights

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

12 video
connector

Plug the cable from your VGA-compatible
monitor into the blue connector.
NOTE: If your computer shipped with a
video card installed, this connector will
have a cap on it. Plug the monitor cable
into the connector on the card.
NOTE: If you are using a video card that
supports dual monitors, use the y-cable
that came with your computer.

13 serial
connector

Connect a serial device, such as a
handheld device, to the serial port. In
system setup, the default designation is
COM1.
For more information, see "System Setup
Options."

Inside Your Computer
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: To avoid electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not accidently disconnect cables from the system board.

1 hard drive

padlock ring

2 chassis intrusion
switch

heat sink and blower
assembly

3 internal speaker

system board

4 power supply

floppy drive

5 card cage

10 CD/DVD drive

Cable Colors
Device

Color

Hard drive

Blue pull tab

Floppy drive

Black pull tab

CD/DVD drive

Orange pull tab

Serial ATA drive

Blue cable

System Board Components

floppy-drive
connector (DSKT)

11 CD drive audio cable
connector (CD_IN)

CD/DVD drive
connector (IDE2)

12 front-panel audio cable
connector (FRONTAUDIO)

battery socket
(BATTERY)

13 power connector
(12VPOWER)

front-panel connector 14 serial port connector (SER2)
(FRONTPANEL)
for optional serial port cards

IDE hard-drive
connector (IDE1)

15 microprocessor and heat
sink connector (CPU)

serial ATA hard-drive
connector (SATA1)

16 microprocessor fan
connector (FAN)

internal speaker
(SPEAKER)

17 memory module connectors
(DIMMs 1, 3, 2, and 4)

standby power light
(AUX_PWR)

18 power connector (POWER)

AGP card connector
(AGP)

19 RTC reset jumper (RTCRST)

10 PCI riser board
connector (PCI2)

20 password jumper (PSWD)

Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand
Your computer can be used in either a vertical or horizontal position.

To use the computer in a vertical position, you must attach the computer stand:
1.

Place the computer on its right side so that the drive bays are at the bottom.

Fit the stand onto what was the left side of the computer.

Position the stand as shown in the following illustration by aligning the large round hole in the stand with the securing button on the side of the
cover and aligning the captive screw in the stand with the screw hole in the cover.

When the stand is in place, tighten the thumbscrew.

Rotate the computer so that the stand is at the bottom and the drives are at the top.

To remove the stand:
1.

Turn the computer over so that the stand is at the top.

Loosen the thumbscrew and lift the stand away.

Place the computer in a horizontal position.

Back to Contents Page

AGP and DVI Adapter Cards
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.
Your Dell™ computer provides a connector for an AGP or DVI adapter card.
NOTE: The DVI adapter card works through your computer's integrated graphics. To control the adapter through your operating system, click the Start
button, click Control Panel, and then click the driver's user-interface icon.
1.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Removing an AGP/DVI Adapter Card
1.

Remove the filler bracket by raising the hinged lever and sliding the bracket up.
Press the indented tab on the hinged lever with your thumb until you release the tab. Continue holding the lever and pull the lever up.

1 hinged lever
2 indented tab (side view)
2.

Press the card lever toward the PCI connector.

Pull the card up and out of the card clip.

1 notch 4 card clip
2 lever

5 AGP connector

3 tab

6 PCI connector

Installing an AGP/DVI Adapter Card
1.

To add or replace the card, press the card lever toward the PCI connector and gently press the card into the AGP connector until it clicks into place.

Release the card lever, ensuring that the tab fits into the notch on the front end of the card.

Secure the card by lowering the hinged lever on the back panel.

Close the computer cover.

Attach the computer stand, if it is used.

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.

Connect the monitor cable to the card's video connector.
After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next
computer start-up:

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
8.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

PCI Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
PCI Cards
Serial Port Adapters

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.
Your Dell™ computer provides slots for up to two 32-bit, 33-MHz PCI cards, or one PCI card and one serial port adapter. For more information, see
"Specifications."

PCI Cards

NOTE: Your Dell computer uses only PCI slots. ISA cards are not supported.

If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a card, skip to "Removing a PCI Card."
1.

If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Installing a PCI Card
1.

Remove the card cage:
a.

Check any cables connected to cards through the back-panel openings. Disconnect any cables that will not reach the card cage once they are
removed from the computer.

Gently pull on the handle and lift the card cage up and away from the computer.

1 card cage
2 handle
2.

If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create an empty card-slot opening.
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.
4.

Insert the card into the card connector.
If the card is full-length, insert the end of the card into the card guide bracket as you lower the card toward its connector on the system board. Insert
the card firmly into the card connector on the riser board.

1 lever

5 card-edge connector

2 retention arm 6 card connector
3 filler bracket

7 riser board

4 card

8 card cage

Lower the retention arm and press it into place, securing the card(s) in the computer.

Replace the card cage:
a.

Align the tabs in the side of the card cage with the slots on the side of the computer, and slide the card cage down into place.

Ensure that the riser board is fully seated in the connector on the system board.

1 card cage
2 tabs (2)
3 slots (2)
7.

Reconnect any cables that you removed in step 1.

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: 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.
10.

Close the computer cover.
Attach the computer stand (optional).

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

11.

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
12.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
13.

14.

15.

If you installed a sound card, perform the following steps:
a.

Enter system setup, select Integrated Devices, and change the setting for Sound 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, perform the following steps:
a.

Enter system setup, select Integrated Devices and change the setting for Network Interface Card 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.

Remove the card cage (see step 1 of the previous procedure).

Press the lever on the 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.

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.
6.

Lower the retention arm and press it into place.

Serial Port Adapters
Installing a Serial Port Adapter
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Remove the card cage (see "Installing a PCI Card").

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

1 retention arm
2 filler bracket
3 card bracket
9.

Remove the filler bracket.

10.

Slide the adapter card bracket down over the card slot opening, and lower the retention arm, securing the bracket.

11.

Route the serial adapter cable under the card cage, and attach the cable to the connector on the system board (labeled SER2).

1 serial card system board connector (SER2)
2 serial adapter cable
3 card cage
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack, and then plug it into the computer.

12.

Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next
computer start-up:

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
13.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Removing a Serial Port Adapter
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Disconnect the serial adapter cable from the connector on the system board.

Remove the card cage (see "Installing a PCI Card").

Press the lever on the retention arm and raise the retention arm (see step 8 in the previous procedure).

10.
11.

Lift and remove the adapter card bracket.
If you are removing the adapter permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card- slot opening.
If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell.

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.
12.

Lower the retention arm and press it into place.

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

13.

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
14.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

Opening the Computer Cover
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: Ensure that there is sufficient space to support the open cover—at least 30 cm (1 ft) of desk top space.

Locate the two release buttons shown in the illustration. Then press the two release buttons as you lift the cover.

NOTICE: Open the cover slowly to ensure that you do not damage any cables.

Raise the back of the cover, and pivot it toward the front of the computer.

1 security cable slot
2 padlock ring
3 release buttons (one on each side)

Back to Contents Page

Drives
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Drives
Hard Drive
Front-Panel Inserts
Floppy Drive
CD/DVD Drive
Cable Routing

Drives
Your computer supports:
l

One hard drive (IDE or Serial ATA)

One floppy or optional Zip drive

One optional CD or DVD drive

1 CD/DVD drive
2 floppy drive
3 hard drive

General Installation Guidelines
IDE hard drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE1, and CD/DVD IDE drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE2.
Serial ATA hard drives should be connected to the connector labeled SATA1.
To locate the system board connectors, see "System Board Components."

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 will attach to the drive connector and the other will attach to the system board.

Drive Interface Connectors
IDE Drive Connector

Serial ATA Connector

NOTE: The serial ATA connector may have an attached cover or shroud.
NOTE: The serial ATA Connector may be straight or angled.

Power Cable Connector

1 power cable
2 power input connector

Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables
When removing an IDE drive data cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector detaches.
When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA data cable, hold the cable by the black connector at each end.
Like IDE connectors, the serial ATA 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.

IDE Drive Addressing
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 master or boot device (drive 0), and the device attached to the middle connector on the interface cable is the slave device (drive 1).
See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information on configuring devices for the cable select setting.
Your computer supports up to two IDE devices. Connect hard drives to the connector labeled "IDE1," and connect CD/DVD drives to the connector labeled
"IDE2."
Most IDE 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. Keyed connectors ensure that the pin-1 wire in the cable (indicated by the colored stripe along one edge of the cable) goes to the pin-1 end of the
connector. The pin-1 end of a connector on a board or a card is usually indicated by a silk-screened "1" printed directly on the board or card.
NOTICE: When you connect an interface cable, do not place the colored stripe away from pin 1 of the connector. Reversing the cable prevents the drive
from operating and could damage the controller, the drive, or both.

IDE Drive Interface Connector

1 interface connector
2 colored stripe on cable
3 interface cable

Hard Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.
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.

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

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

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Removing a Hard Drive
1.

Disconnect the power and hard-drive cables from the drive.

IDE

Serial ATA

1 hard-drive cable
2 power cable
2.

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

1 tabs (2)
2 hard drive

Installing a Hard Drive

NOTICE: If you install a serial ATA hard drive, it is recommended that you have Dell-supplied data and power cables.

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

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.
2.

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

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).

1 drive
2 bracket rails (2)
3 screws (4)
4.

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

NOTICE: If you are installing an IDE hard drive, match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive (pin 1 is marked as "1").

Connect the power and hard-drive cables to the drive.

IDE

Serial ATA

1 hard-drive cable
2 power cable
6.

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

Close the computer cover.

Attach the computer stand (optional).

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.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
10.

Insert a bootable floppy disk into drive A.

11.

Turn on the computer.

12.

Enter system setup, and update the appropriate Primary Drive option (0 or 1).

13.

Exit system setup, and reboot the computer.

14.

Partition and logically format your drive before you proceed to the next step.

For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system.
15.

Test the hard drive by running the "Dell Diagnostics."

16.

Install your operating system on the hard drive.

For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system.
After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next
computer start-up:
ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
17.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Front-Panel Inserts
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
If you are installing a new floppy or CD/DVD drive instead of replacing a drive, remove the front-panel inserts:
1.

Facing the front of the computer, use your fingers to remove the front-panel cover.

Press on the inserts until they pop free of the front-panel cover.

Floppy Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front- panel inserts.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Removing a Floppy Drive

Disconnect the data cable from the CD/DVD drive bay located above the floppy drive.

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

Disconnect the floppy-drive cable from the system board connector (labeled DSKT).

1 power cable
2 floppy-drive cable
3 floppy-drive connector (DSKT)
4.

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

Installing a Floppy Drive
1.

If the replacement 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).

1 drive
2 bracket rails (2)
3 screws (4)

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

Attach the power and floppy-drive cables to the floppy drive.

Connect the other end of the floppy-drive cable to the connector labeled DSKT on the system board.

1 power cable
2 floppy-drive cable
3 floppy-drive connector (DSKT)
5.

Reconnect the data cable to the back of the drive installed in the CD/DVD drive bay located above the floppy drive.

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

Close the computer cover.

Attach the computer stand (optional).

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 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.
10.

Enter system setup and update the appropriate Diskette Drive A option to reflect the size and capacity of your new floppy drive.

After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next
computer start-up:
ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
11.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
12.

Verify that your computer works correctly by running the "Dell Diagnostics."

CD/DVD Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

CAUTION: 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.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

If you are installing a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front- panel inserts.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Removing a CD/DVD Drive
1.

Disconnect the power, audio, and CD/DVD drive cables from the back of the drive.

Disconnect the other end of the CD/DVD drive cable from the system board connector (IDE2).

1 power cable
2 audio cable
3 CD/DVD drive cable
4 IDE2 connector
3.

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.

Installing a CD/DVD Drive
1.

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.
2.

If the replacement 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).

1 drive
2 bracket rails (2)
3 screws (4)

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

Connect the power, audio, and CD/DVD drive cables to the drive.

Connect the other end of the CD/DVD drive cable to the IDE2 system board connector.

1 power cable
2 audio cable
3 CD/DVD drive cable
4 IDE2 connector
6.

If you are installing a drive that has its own controller card, install the controller card in a card slot.

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

If the CD/DVD drive bay was previously empty, remove the front-panel inserts.

Close the computer cover.

10.

Attach the computer stand (optional).

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

11.

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.
12.

Update your configuration information by setting the appropriate Drive option (0 or 1) under Drives: Secondary to Auto. See "Drive Configuration" for
more information.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
14.

Verify that your computer works correctly by running the "Dell Diagnostics."

Cable Routing

1 CD/DVD drive audio cable

6 hard drive power cable (route and secure the cable by using the tabs on the inside of
the cover)

2 CD/DVD drive data cable

7 front input/output data cable

3 floppy drive data cable

8 front input/output audio cable

4 control panel cable

9 IDE drive data cable (used if an IDE hard drive is installed)

5 serial ATA drive data cable (used if a serial ATA hard drive is
installed)

Back to Contents Page

Microprocessor
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

Removing the Microprocessor
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before you open the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Disconnect the cooling fan power cable from the FAN connector on the system board.

Disconnect the power cable from the 12VPOWER connector on the system board.

CAUTION: The heat sink assembly can get very hot during normal operation. Be sure that the assembly has had sufficient time to cool before you
touch it.
9.

Remove the heat-sink/blower assembly:
a.

Press the tab on the green securing clip to remove the clip from the retention base.

1 securing clip
2 tab
3 retention base
b.

Remove the heat-sink/blower assembly by pressing on the retention base tab while lifting one end of the heat sink.

NOTICE: Lay the heat sink down with the thermal material facing upward.

1 heat-sink/blower assembly 4 retention base
2 screw

5 heat sink

3 retention base tab

6 screw

10.

Remove the two screws on the blower to remove it from the heat sink.

NOTICE: Do not discard the blower. You will reuse it. If you are installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, discard the original heat sink. If you
are not installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original heat sink when you install your new microprocessor.
NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you remove the microprocessor from the socket. Bending the pins can permanently damage the
microprocessor.
11.

Pull the release lever straight up until the microprocessor is released, and then remove the microprocessor from the socket.

1 release lever
2 microprocessor
3 socket

Installing the Microprocessor
NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.

NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you unpack the new microprocessor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the
microprocessor. If any of the pins on the microprocessor appears to be bent, contact Dell for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
1.

Unpack the new microprocessor.

1 pin-1 corners of the microprocessor and socket aligned
NOTICE: You must position the microprocessor correctly in the socket to avoid permanent damage to the microprocessor and the computer when you
turn on the computer.
2.

If the release lever on the socket is not fully extended, move it to that position.

Align the pin-1 corners of the microprocessor and socket.

NOTICE: When you place the microprocessor in the socket, ensure that all of the pins fit into the corresponding holes on the socket.

Set the microprocessor lightly in the socket and ensure that all pins are headed into the correct holes. Do not use force, which could bend the pins if the
microprocessor is misaligned. When the microprocessor is positioned correctly, press it with minimal pressure to seat it.

When the microprocessor is fully seated in the socket, pivot the release lever back toward the socket until it snaps into place to secure the
microprocessor.

NOTICE: If you are not installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original blower/heat sink assembly when you replace the
microprocessor.
If you are installing a microprocessor replacement kit from Dell, return the microprocessor to Dell in the same package in which your replacement kit was
sent.

Reinstall the two screws that attach the blower to the heat sink.

Install the heat-sink/blower assembly:
a.

Place the one end of the heat-sink assembly under the tab on one side of the retention base.

Lower the assembly until the heat sink fits securely under the tab on the retention base.

Insert the securing clip by placing the notched end of the clip opposite the tab into the slot on the retention base. Press on the securing clip tab
and lower the securing clip into place. Make sure that the notched ends of the securing clip are secured in the retention base slots.

1 heat-sink/blower assembly 4 retention base
2 screw

5 heat sink

3 retention base tab

6 screw

1 securing clip
2 tab
3 slot
4 retention base
8.

Plug the fan cable into the FAN connector on the system board.

Plug the power cable into the 12VPOWER connector on the system board.

10.

Close the computer cover.

11.

Attach the computer stand (optional).

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

12.

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.

13.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing the Chassis Intrusion option to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

About Your Computer
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand

Front View

1 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 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.

2 CD/DVD driveactivity light

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

3 CD/DVD drive
eject button

Press to eject a CD/DVD from the drive.

4 floppy-drive eject
button

Press to eject a floppy disk from the floppy drive.

5 power button

Press to turn on the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not turn off the computer by pressing the power button for 6 seconds or longer. Instead,
perform an operating system shutdown.
NOTE: If your operating system has ACPI enabled, when you press the power button the computer will perform an operating system
shutdown.

6 power light

The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:
l
l
l
l

No light — The computer is turned off (S4, S5, or mechanical OFF)
Steady green — The computer is in a normal operating state
Blinking green — The computer is in a power-saving state (S1 or S3)
Blinking or solid amber — See "Power Problems"

To exit from a power-saving state, press the power button or use the keyboard or the mouse if it is configured as a wake device in
the Windows Device Manager. For more information about sleep states and exiting from a power-saving state, see "Power
Management."
See "Diagnostic Lights" for a description of light codes that can help you troubleshoot problems with your computer.
7 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.

8 headphone
connector

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

Back View

1 back panel connectors

Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connector.

2 card slots

Access connectors for any installed PCI and AGP cards.

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

Your computer is equipped with either an auto-sensing voltage selector or a manual voltage selection switch.
Computers with an auto-sensing voltage selector do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and can
automatically detect the correct operating voltage.
To help avoid damaging a computer with a manual voltage selection switch, set the switch for the voltage that most
closely matches the AC power available in your location.
NOTICE: The voltage selection switch must be set to the 115-V position even though the AC power available in
Japan is 100 V.
Also, ensure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to operate with the AC power available in
your location.

4 power connector

Insert the power cable.

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.
NOTE: The integrated parallel connector is automatically disabled if the computer detects an installed card containing a parallel
connector configured to the same address. For more information, see "System Setup Options."

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.
If your computer is running the Microsoft® Windows® 2000 or Windows XP operating system, the necessary mouse drivers have
been installed on your hard drive.

link integrity light

l
l
l
l

network adapter
connector

Green — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps network and the computer.
Orange — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps network and the computer.
Yellow — A good connection exists between a 1-Gbps (or 1000-Mbps) network and the computer.
Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.

To attach your computer to a network or broadband modem, connect one end of a network cable to either a network jack or your
network device. Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back panel of your computer. A
click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached.
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.

network activity
light

Flashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting or receiving network data. A high volume of network traffic may make this
light appear to be in a steady "on" state.

line-in connector

Use the blue line-in connector (available on computers with integrated sound) to attach a record/playback device such as a cassette
player, CD player, or VCR.

line-out
connector

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

microphone
connector

Use the pink microphone connector (available on computers with integrated sound) to attach a personal computer microphone for
voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

USB 2.0
connectors (6)

On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.
Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards, and for bootable USB
devices.

10 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.

11 diagnostic lights

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

12 video connector

Plug the cable from your VGA-compatible monitor into the blue connector.
NOTE: If your computer shipped with a video card installed, this connector will have a cap on it. Plug the monitor cable into the
connector on the card.
NOTE: If you are using a video card that supports dual monitors, use the y-cable that came with your computer.

13 serial connector

Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. In system setup, the default designation is COM1.
For more information, see "System Setup Options."

1 hard drive

6 system board

2 floppy drive

7 power supply

3 CD/DVD drive

8 padlock ring

4 internal speaker

9 heat sink and blower assembly

5 chassis intrusion switch

Cable Colors
Device

Color

Hard drive

Blue pull tab

Floppy drive

Black pull tab

CD/DVD drive

Orange pull tab

Serial ATA drive Blue cable

System Board Components

floppy-drive connector (DSKT)

11 CD drive audio cable connector (CD_IN)

CD/DVD drive connector (IDE2)

12 front-panel audio cable connector (FRONTAUDIO)

battery socket (BATTERY)

13 power connector (12VPOWER)

front-panel connector (FRONTPANEL)

14 serial port connector (SER2) for optional serial port cards

IDE hard-drive connector (IDE1)

15 microprocessor and heat sink connector (CPU)

serial ATA hard-drive connector (SATA1) 16 microprocessor fan connector (FAN)

internal speaker (SPEAKER)

17 memory module connectors (DIMM_1 and DIMM_2)

standby power light (AUX_PWR)

18 power connector (POWER)

AGP card connector (AGP)

19 RTC reset jumper (RTCRST)

10 PCI card connector

20 password jumper (PSWD)

Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand
The computer can be used in either a vertical or horizontal position.

To use the computer in a vertical position, you must attach the computer stand:
1.

Place the computer on its right side so that the drive bays are at the bottom.

Fit the stand onto what was the left side of the computer.
a.

b.
3.

When the stand is in place, tighten the thumbscrew.

Rotate the computer so that the stand is at the bottom and the drives are at the top.

To remove the computer stand:
1.

Turn the computer over so that the stand is at the top.

Loosen the thumbscrew and lift the stand away.

Place the computer in a horizontal position.

Back to Contents Page

AGP and DVI Adapter Cards
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.
Your Dell™ computer provides a connector for an AGP or DVI adapter card.
NOTE: The DVI adapter card works through your computer's integrated graphics. To control the adapter through your operating system, click the Start
menu, click Control Panel, and then click the driver's user-interface icon.
1.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Removing an AGP/DVI Adapter Card
1.

Remove the filler bracket by raising the hinged lever and sliding the filler bracket up.

1 hinged lever
2 filler bracket

Press the card lever toward the PCI connector.

Pull the card up and out of the card clip.

1 notch 4 card clip
2 lever

5 AGP connector

3 tab

6 PCI connector

Installing an AGP/DVI Adapter Card
1.

To add or replace the card, press the card lever toward the PCI connector and gently press the card into the AGP connector until it clicks into place.

Release the card lever, ensuring that the tab fits into the notch on the front end of the card.

Secure the card by lowering the hinged lever on the back panel.

Close the computer cover.

Attach the computer stand, if it is used.

Connect the monitor cable to the card's video connector.

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

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
8.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

PCI Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
PCI Cards
Serial Port Adapters
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.
Your Dell™ computer provides a slot for one low-profile, 32-bit, 33-MHz PCI card or serial port adapter.

PCI Cards

NOTE: Your Dell computer uses only PCI slots. ISA cards are not supported.

If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a card, skip to "Removing a PCI Card."
1.

If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Installing a PCI Card
1.

Raise the retention arm.

1 edge connector 4 card connector
2 card

5 filler bracket

3 retention arm

If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a empty card-slot opening. Then continue with step 4.

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.

Place the card on the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.
If the card is full-length, insert the end of the card into the card guide bracket as you lower the card toward its connector on the system board. Insert
the card firmly into the card connector on the system board.

Before you lower the retention arm, ensure that:
l

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.

1 alignment guide

2 filler bracket
3 alignment bar
4 retention arm
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.
8.

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 wall jack and then plug it into the computer.

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
10.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
11.

12.

13.

If you installed a sound card, enter system setup, and perform the following steps:
a.

Enter system setup, select Integrated Devices, and change the setting for Sound 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, perform the following steps:
a.

Enter system setup, select Integrated Devices, and change the setting for Network Interface Card 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.

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.

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.
5.

Lower the retention arm and press it into place.

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

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
7.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Remove card's driver from the operating system.

Serial Port Adapters
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Installing a Serial Port Adapter
NOTE: You can install a serial port card in either the PCI or AGP connector.

Raise the retention arm.

Remove the filler bracket.

Slide the adapter bracket down over the card slot opening, and lower the retention arm, ensuring 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 (see step 6 of the previous procedure).

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

1 SER2 system board
connector
2 card bracket
3 serial card cable
4 card slot opening
5.

Attach the serial adapter cable to the serial port connector on the system board (labeled SER2).

Proceed with step 6 in the next procedure.

Removing a Serial Port Adapter
1.

Disconnect the serial adapter cable from the connector on the system board.

Raise the retention arm.

Lift and remove the adapter card bracket.

If you are removing the adapter permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card- slot opening.
If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell.

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.
5.

Lower the retention arm and press it into place.

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

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
7.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

Opening the Computer Cover
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

Locate the two release buttons shown in the illustration. Then press the two release buttons as you lift the cover.

NOTICE: Open the cover slowly to ensure that you do not damage any cables.

Raise the back of the cover, and pivot it toward the front of the computer.

1 security cable slot
2 padlock ring
3 release buttons (one on each side)

Back to Contents Page

Drives
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Drives
Hard Drive
Front-Panel Inserts
Floppy Drive
CD/DVD Drive
Cable Routing

Drives
Your computer supports:
l

One hard drive (IDE or Serial ATA)

One floppy or optional Zip drive

One optional CD or DVD drive

1 CD/DVD drive
2 floppy drive
3 hard drive

General Installation Guidelines
IDE hard drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE1, and CD/DVD IDE drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE2.
A serial ATA hard drive should be connected to the connector labeled SATA1.
To locate the system board connectors, see "System Board Components."

Connecting Drive Cables

Drive Interface Connectors
IDE Drive Connector

Serial ATA Connector

NOTE: The serial ATA connector may have an attached cover or shroud.
NOTE: The serial ATA Connector may be straight or angled.

Power Cable Connector

1 power cable
2 power input connector

IDE Drive Interface Connector

1 interface connector
2 colored stripe on cable
3 interface cable

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

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

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Removing a Hard Drive
1.

Disconnect the power cable and hard-drive cable from the drive.

IDE

Serial ATA

1 power cable
2 hard-drive cable
2.

Press in on the tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive toward the I/O panel and remove it from the computer.

Installing a Hard Drive
NOTICE: If you install a serial ATA hard drive, it is recommended that you have Dell-supplied data and power cables.

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

1 drive
2 bracket rails (2)
3 screws (4)
3.

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

NOTICE: If you are installing an IDE hard drive, match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive (pin 1 is marked as "1").

Connect the power and hard-drive cables to the drive.

IDE

Serial ATA

1 power cable
2 hard-drive cable
5.

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

Close the computer cover.

Attach the computer stand (optional).

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.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
9.

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

10.

Turn on the computer.

11.

Enter system setup, and update the appropriate Primary Drive option (0 or 1).

12.

Exit system setup, and reboot the computer.

13.

Partition and logically format your drive before you proceed to the next step.

For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system.

14.

Test the hard drive by running the "Dell Diagnostics."

15.

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

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis
intrusion detector.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front- panel inserts.

Removing a Floppy Drive
1.

Disconnect the floppy-drive cable from the system board connector (DSKT).

Remove the power cable from the interposer board.

Remove or raise the drive by pressing the green tabs on either side of the drive and lifting the drive up.

Remove the floppy-drive cable from the floppy drive:
a.

Remove the interposer board from the floppy drive by pressing on the tab and rotating the interposer board.

1 floppy-drive cable
2 tab
3 interposer board
4 system board floppy-drive connector (DSKT)
b.

To release the floppy-drive cable from the connector, slide the lever until it is fully extended, and then lift the cable away.

1 floppy-drive cable
2 lever
5.

Remove the floppy drive from its sled by pulling the sled tab out while pushing the drive up and then sliding the drive out of the sled.

1 sled tab
2 sled

Installing a Floppy Drive
1.

Snap the replacement drive into the sled and ensure that it is secure in the sled.

Connect the interposer board to the floppy drive:

Slide the floppy-drive cable into the connector.

Close the lever so that the cable is secure in the connector.

Line up the hole on the bottom of the interposer board with the notch on the connector, and snap the interposer board onto the drive.

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

1 connector notch
2 interposer board alignment hole
3 floppy-drive cable
4 lever
4.

Attach the power cable to the interposer board on the floppy drive.

Connect the strip cable to the DSKT connector on the system board.

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

Close the computer cover.

Attach the computer stand (optional).

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.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
10.

Enter system setup and update the appropriate Diskette Drive A option to reflect the size and capacity of your new floppy drive.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis
intrusion detector.
12.

Verify that your computer works correctly by running the "Dell Diagnostics."

CD/DVD Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

If you are installing a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front-panel inserts.

Removing a CD/DVD Drive

Disconnect the power and audio cables from the interposer board.

Remove the interposer board from the drive.

1 interposer board
3.

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.

Installing a CD/DVD Drive
1.

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.

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

Connect the interposer board to the CD drive:
a.

Ensure that the interposer board tab fits securely under the notch on the inside of the cover.

Attach the power and audio cables to the interposer board.

1 interposer board
2 notch on inside of cover
3 interposer board tab
If your computer came with an IDE CD drive, use the spare connector on the existing interface cable. Otherwise, use the IDE interface cable provided in
the drive kit.
4.

If you are installing a drive that has its own controller card, install the controller card in an expansion slot.

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

If the CD/DVD drive bay was previously empty, remove the front-panel insert (see "Front-Panel Inserts").

Close the computer cover.

Attach the computer stand (optional).

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.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
10.

Update your configuration information by setting the appropriate Drive option (0 or 1) under Drives: Secondary to Auto. See "Drive Configuration" for
more information.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis
intrusion detector.
12.

Verify that your computer works correctly by running the "Dell Diagnostics."

Cable Routing

1 CD/DVD drive data cable

front input/output data cable

2 floppy drive data cable

IDE drive data cable (used if an IDE hard drive is installed)

3 control panel cable

front input/output audio cable

4 CD/DVD and floppy drive power cables

10 12V power cable

5 serial ATA drive data cable (used if a serial ATA hard drive is installed) 11 CD/DVD audio cable
6 IDE drive power cable

Back to Contents Page

Microprocessor
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before you open the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Disconnect the cooling fan power cable from the FAN connector on the system board (see "System Board Components").

Disconnect the power cable from the 12VPOWER connector on the system board.

CAUTION: The heat-sink assembly can get very hot during normal operation. Be sure that the assembly has had sufficient time to cool before you
touch it.
9.

Remove the heat-sink/blower assembly:
a.

Press the tab on the green securing clip to remove the clip from the retention base.

1 securing clip
2 tab
3 retention base
b.

Remove the heat-sink/blower assembly by pressing on the retention base tab while lifting one end of the heat sink.

NOTICE: Lay the heat sink down with the thermal material facing upward.

1 heat-sink/blower assembly 4 retention base
2 screw

5 heat sink

3 retention base tab

6 screw

10.

Remove the two screws on the blower to remove it from the heat sink.

Pull the release lever straight up until the microprocessor is released, and then remove the microprocessor from the socket.

1 release lever
2 microprocessor
3 socket

Installing the Microprocessor
NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.
NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you unpack the new microprocessor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the
microprocessor. If any of the pins on the microprocessor appears to be bent, contact Dell for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.

Unpack the new microprocessor.

If the release lever on the socket is not fully extended, move it to that position.

Align the pin-1 corners of the microprocessor and socket.

NOTICE: When you place the microprocessor in the socket, ensure that all of the pins fit into the corresponding holes on the socket.

When the microprocessor is fully seated in the socket, pivot the release lever back toward the socket until it snaps into place to secure the
microprocessor.

Reinstall the two screws that attach the blower to the heat sink.

Install the heat-sink/blower assembly:
a.

Place the one end of the heat-sink assembly under the tab on one side of the retention base.

Lower the assembly until the heat sink fits securely under the tab on the retention base.

1 heat-sink/blower assembly 4 retention base
2 screw

5 heat sink

3 retention base tab

6 screw

1 securing clip
2 tab
3 slot
4 retention base
8.

Plug the fan cable into the FAN connector on the system board.

Plug the power cable into the 12VPOWER connector on the system board.

10.

Close the computer cover.

11.

Attach the computer stand (optional).

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

12.

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
13.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing the Chassis Intrusion option to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

About Your Computer
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components

Front View

1 CD-drive eject
button

Press to eject a CD from the CD drive.

2 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.

3 front panel door

Open the door to use the front panel connectors.

4 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 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.

5 headphone
connector

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

6 power button

Press to turn on the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not turn off the computer by pressing the power button for 6 seconds or longer. Instead,
perform an operating system shutdown.
NOTICE: If your operating system has ACPI enabled, when you press the power button the computer will perform an operating
system shutdown.

7 power light

The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:
l
l
l
l

No light — The computer is turned off (S4, S5, or mechanical OFF)
Steady green — The computer is in a normal operating state
Blinking green — The computer is in a power-saving state (S1 or S3)
Blinking or solid amber — See "Power Problems"

To exit from a power-saving state, press the power button or use the keyboard or the mouse if it is configured as a wake device in
the Windows Device Manager. For more information about sleep states and exiting from a power-saving state, see "Power
Management."
See "Diagnostic Lights" for a description of light codes that can help you troubleshoot problems with your computer.
8 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.

9 floppy-drive eject Press to eject a floppy disk from the floppy drive.
button

Back View

1 power connector

Insert the power cable.

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

Your computer is equipped with either an auto-sensing voltage selector or a manual voltage selection switch.
Computers with an auto-sensing voltage selector do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and can
automatically detect the correct operating voltage.
To help avoid damaging a computer with a manual voltage selection switch, set the switch for the voltage that most
closely matches the AC power available in your location.
NOTICE: The voltage selection switch must be set to the 115-V position even though the AC power available in
Japan is 100 V.
Also, ensure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to operate with the AC power available in
your location.

3 back panel connectors

Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connector.

4 card slots

Access connectors for any installed PCI and AGP cards.

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.
NOTE: The integrated parallel connector is automatically disabled if the computer detects an installed card containing a parallel
connector configured to the same address. For more information, see "System Setup Options."

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.
If your computer is running the Microsoft® Windows® 2000 or Windows XP operating system, the necessary mouse drivers have
been installed on your hard drive.

link integrity light

l
l
l
l

Green — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps network and the computer.
Orange — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps network and the computer.
Yellow — A good connection exists between a 1-Gbps (or 1000-Mbps) network and the computer.
Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.

network adapter
connector

To attach your computer to a network, connect one end of a network cable to either a network jack or your network device.
Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back panel of your computer. A click indicates
that the network cable has been securely attached.
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.

network activity
light

Flashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting or receiving network data. A high volume of network traffic may make this
light appear to be in a steady "on" state.

line-in connector

Use the blue line-in connector (available on computers with integrated sound) to attach a record/playback device such as a
cassette player, CD player, or VCR.

line-out
connector

microphone
connector

USB 2.0
connectors (6)

On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
Use the green line-out connector (available on computers with integrated sound) to attach headphones and most speakers with
integrated amplifiers.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
Use the pink microphone connector (available on computers with integrated sound) 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.
Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards, and for bootable USB
devices.

10 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.

11 diagnostic lights

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

12 video connector

Plug the cable from your VGA-compatible monitor into the blue connector.
NOTE: If your computer shipped with a video card installed, this connector will be have a cap on it. Plug the monitor cable into the
connector on the card.
NOTE: If you are using a video card that supports dual monitors, use the y-cable that came with your computer.

13 serial connector

Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. In system setup, the default designation is COM1.
For more information, see "System Setup Options."

1 hard drive

6 heat sink and blower assembly

2 internal speaker

7 power supply

3 chassis intrusion switch 8 floppy drive
4 system board

9 CD/DVD drive

5 padlock ring

Cable Colors
Device

Color

Hard drive

Blue pull tab

Floppy drive

Black pull tab

CD/DVD drive

Orange pull tab

Serial ATA drive Blue cable

System Board Components

floppy-drive connector (DSKT)

12 CD drive audio cable connector (CD_IN)

CD/DVD drive connector (IDE2)

13 front-panel audio cable connector (FRONTAUDIO)

battery socket (BATTERY)

14 power connector (12VPOWER)

front-panel connector (FRONTPANEL)

15 serial port connector (SER2) for optional serial port cards

IDE hard-drive connector (IDE1)

16 microprocessor and heat sink connector (CPU)

serial ATA hard-drive connector (SATA2) 17 microprocessor fan connector (FAN)

serial ATA hard-drive connector (SATA1) 18 memory module connectors (DIMMs 1, 3, 2, and 4)

internal speaker (SPEAKER)

19 power connector (POWER)

standby power light (AUX_PWR)

20 RTC reset jumper (RTCRST)

10 AGP card connector (AGP)

21 password jumper (PSWD)

11 PCI connectors (PCI 1, 2, 3, and 4)

Back to Contents Page

AGP and DVI Adapter Cards
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.
Your Dell™ computer provides a connector for an AGP or DVI adapter card.
NOTE: The DVI adapter card works through your computer's integrated graphics. To control the adapter through your operating system, click the Start
menu, click Control Panel, and then click the driver's user-interface icon.
1.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Removing an AGP/DVI Adapter Card
1.

Remove the filler bracket by raising the hinged lever and sliding the bracket up.

1 hinged lever
2 filler bracket

Press the card lever toward the PCI connector.

Pull the card up and out of the card clip.

1 notch 4 card clip
2 lever

5 AGP connector

3 tab

6 PCI connector

Installing an AGP/DVI Adapter Card
1.

To add or replace the card, press the card lever toward the PCI connector and gently press the card into the AGP connector until it clicks into place.

Release the card lever, ensuring that the tab fits into the notch on the front end of the card.

Secure the card by lowering the hinged lever on the back panel.

Close the computer cover.

Connect the monitor cable to the card's video connector.

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

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
7.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

PCI Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
PCI Cards
Serial Port Adapters
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.
Your Dell™ computer provides slots for up to four 32-bit, 33-MHz PCI cards, or three PCI cards and a serial port adapter. For more information, see
"Specifications."

PCI Cards

NOTE: Your Dell computer uses only PCI slots. ISA cards are not supported.

If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing a PCI Card."
1.

If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Installing a PCI Card
1.

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

1 card
2 edge connector
3 card connector
4 retention arm
5 lever
6 filler bracket
2.
3.

If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 4.
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.

Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.
If the card is full-length, insert the end of the card into the card guide bracket as you lower the card toward its connector on the system board. Insert
the card firmly into the card connector on the system board.

1 bracket within slot
2 bracket caught outside of slot
3 fully seated card
4 not fully seated card
6.

Before you lower the retention arm, ensure that:
l

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.

1 filler bracket
2 alignment bar
3 alignment guide
4 retention arm
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.
8.

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 wall jack and then plug it into the computer.

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
10.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
11.

12.

13.

If you installed a sound card:
a.

Enter system setup, select Integrated Devices, and change the setting for Sound 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:
a.

Enter system setup, select Integrated Devices, and change the setting for Network Interface Card 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.

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.

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.
5.

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 wall jack and then plug it into the computer.

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
7.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
8.

Remove the card's driver from the operating system.

If you removed a sound card:

10.

Enter system setup, select Integrated Devices, and change the setting for Sound to On.

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

If you removed an add-in network connector:
a.

Enter system setup, select Integrated Devices, and change the setting for Network Interface Card to On.

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

Serial Port Adapters
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Installing a Serial Port Adapter
1.

Raise the retention arm.

Remove the filler bracket.

Slide the adapter bracket down over the card-slot opening, and lower the retention arm, ensuring that:

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

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

Press the retention arm into place, securing the adapter in the computer.

1 serial port system board connector (SER2)
2 adapter bracket
3 serial adapter cable
4 retention arm
5.

Attach the serial adapter cable to the serial port connector on the system board (labeled SER2).

Continue with step 6 in the next procedure.

Removing a Serial Port Adapter
1.

Disconnect the serial adapter cable from the connector on the system board.

Raise the retention arm.

Lift and remove the adapter bracket.

If you are removing the adapter permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card- slot opening.
If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell.

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.
5.

Lower the retention arm and press it into place.

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

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
7.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

Opening the Computer Cover
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Lay the computer on its side as shown in the illustration.

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.

1 release buttons (2)
2 security cable slot
3 padlock ring

Back to Contents Page

Drives
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Drives
Hard Drive
Front-Panel Inserts
Floppy Drive
CD/DVD Drive
Cable Routing

Drives
Your computer supports:
l

two hard drives (IDE or Serial ATA)

two floppy or optional Zip drives

two CD or DVD drives

1 CD/DVD drive(s)
2 floppy drive(s)
3 hard drive(s)

General Installation Guidelines
IDE hard drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE1, and CD/DVD IDE drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE2.
Serial ATA hard drives should be connected to the connectors labeled SATA1 or SATA2.
To locate the system board connectors, see "System Board Components."

Connecting Drive Cables

Drive Interface Connectors
IDE Drive Connector

Serial ATA Connector

NOTE: The serial ATA connectors may have an attached cover or shroud.
NOTE: The serial ATA Connector may be straight or angled.

Power Cable Connector

1 power cable
2 power input connector

IDE Drive Addressing
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 master or boot device (drive 0), and the device attached to the middle connector on the interface cable is the slave device (drive 1).
See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information on configuring devices for the cable select setting.
Your computer supports up to four IDE devices. Connect hard drives to the connector labeled "IDE1," and connect CD/DVD drives to the connector labeled
"IDE2."
Most IDE 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. Keyed connectors ensure that the pin-1 wire in the cable (indicated by the colored stripe along one edge of the cable) goes to the pin-1 end of the
connector. The pin-1 end of a connector on a board or a card is usually indicated by a silk-screened "1" printed directly on the board or card.
NOTICE: When you connect an interface cable, do not place the colored stripe away from pin 1 of the connector. Reversing the cable prevents the drive
from operating and could damage the controller, the drive, or both.

IDE Drive Interface Connector

1 interface connector
2 colored stripe on cable
3 interface cable

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

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Removing a Hard Drive

Disconnect the power and hard-drive cables from the drive.

IDE

Serial ATA

1 hard-drive cable
2 power cable
2.

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

1 tabs (2)
2 hard drive

Installing a Hard Drive
NOTICE: If you install a serial ATA hard drive, it is recommended that you have Dell-supplied data and power cables.

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.

1 drive
2 bracket rails (2)
3 screws (4)
4.

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

NOTICE: If you are installing an IDE hard drive, match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive (pin 1 is marked as "1").

Connect the power and hard-drive cables to the drive.

IDE

Serial ATA

1 power cable
2 hard-drive cable
6.

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

Close the computer cover.

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.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
9.

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

10.

Turn on the computer.

11.

Enter system setup, and update the appropriate Primary Drive option (0 or 1).

12.

Exit system setup, and reboot the computer.

13.

Partition and logically format your drive before you proceed to the next step.

See the documentation for your operating system for instructions.
14.

Test the hard drive by running the "Dell Diagnostics."

15.

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

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Adding a Second Hard Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
CAUTION: 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.
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.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Remove the two green 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.

10.

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

Disconnect the power and the hard-drive cables from the back of the first hard drive.

Press in the two green rail tabs and pull the first hard drive out of the upper bay.

Gently slide the first hard drive into the lower bay until you hear a click.

Reconnect the power and hard-drive cables to the back of the first hard drive.

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

1 rail tabs (2)
2 second hard drive in upper bay
3 first hard drive in lower bay
4 hard drive bay
11.

Connect a power cable to the drive.

NOTICE: If you are installing an IDE hard drive, match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive.

12.

Connect a data cable to the drive.
a.

If you're installing a serial ATA drive, connect the new data cable to the back of the drive and to one of the serial ATA connectors on the system
board.

If your first hard drive is an IDE drive and you're installing another IDE drive, locate the extra connector on the drive cable that is attached to
your first hard drive and attach the connector to the second hard drive.

IDE devices use cable-select drive cables. This means that the device connected to the end connector of the drive cable is the master device and
the device connected to the middle connector is the slave device. Be sure that the jumper setting on the new device is set for "cable select" (see
the documentation that came with the drive for information).

Cabling for Primary and Secondary IDE Hard Drives

1 power cable
2 second hard-drive cable (secondary drive)
3 first hard-drive cable (primary boot drive)
13.

Close the computer cover.

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

14.

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

15.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

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.

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.

1 insert frame for CD/DVD drive bay
2 insert frame for floppy drive bay
6.

Reattach the empty insert frame over the front of the drive bay.

The insert frame fits only one way.

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Removing a Floppy Drive

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

Disconnect the other end of the floppy-drive cable from the system board.

1 power cable
2 floppy-drive cable
3 floppy-drive connector (DSKT)
3.

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

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).

1 drive
2 bracket rails (2)
3 screws (4)
2.

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

Attach the power and floppy-drive cables to the floppy drive.

Connect the other end of the floppy-drive cable to the connector labeled DSKT on the system board (see "System Board Components").

1 power cable
2 floppy-drive cable
3 floppy-drive connector (DSKT)
5.

If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front- panel inserts.

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

Close the computer cover.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network wall jack and then plug it in to 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.
9.

Enter system setup and update the appropriate Diskette Drive A option to reflect the size and capacity of your new floppy drive.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
11.

Verify that your computer works correctly by running the "Dell Diagnostics."

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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.

Removing a CD/DVD Drive
1.

Disconnect the power, audio, and CD/DVD drive cables from the back of the drive.

1 power cable
2 audio cable
3 CD/DVD drive cable
2.

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.

Installing a CD/DVD Drive

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.
2.

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.

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).

1 drive
2 bracket rails (2)
3 screws (4)
4.

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

Connect the power, audio, and CD/DVD drive cables to the drive.

1 power cable
2 audio cable
3 CD/DVD drive cable
6.

If you are installing a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front-panel inserts.

If you are installing a drive that has its own controller card, install the controller card in a card slot.

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

Close the computer cover.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network wall jack and then plug it in to the computer.

10.

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.
11.

Update your configuration information by setting the appropriate Drive option (0 or 1) under Drives: Secondary to Auto. See "Drive Configuration" for
more information.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.
13.

Verify that your computer works correctly by running the "Dell Diagnostics."

Cable Routing

1 CD/DVD drive power cable 6

serial ATA data cable (used if a serial ATA hard drive is installed)

2 CD/DVD drive data cable

hard drive power cable

3 CD/DVD drive audio cable

IDE drive data cable (used if an IDE hard drive is installed)

4 floppy drive power cable

front input/output data cable

5 floppy drive data cable

10 front input/output audio cable

Back to Contents Page

Microprocessor
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

Shut down the computer through the Start menu.

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your computer, turn them off now.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

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 you open the cover.

Open the computer cover.

Disconnect the cooling fan power cable from the FAN connector on the system board (see "System Board Components").

Disconnect the power cable from the 12VPOWER connector on the system board.

Lift up the airflow shroud.

CAUTION: The heat sink can get very hot during normal operation. Be sure that the heat sink has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

Remove the heat sink:
a.

Press the tab on the green securing clip to remove it from the retention base.

Remove the heat-sink by pressing on the retention base tab while lifting one end of the heat sink.

NOTICE: Lay the heat sink down with the thermal material facing upward.

1 securing clip
2 tab
3 retention base

1 heat sink
2 tab
3 retention base
NOTICE: If you are installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, discard the original heat sink. If you are not installing a microprocessor upgrade kit
from Dell, reuse the original heat sink and blower when you install your new microprocessor.
10.

Pull the release lever straight up until the microprocessor is released.

NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you remove the microprocessor from the socket. Bending the pins can permanently damage the
microprocessor.

1 release lever
2 microprocessor
3 socket
11.

Remove the microprocessor from the socket.
Leave the release lever extended in the release position so that the socket is ready for the new microprocessor.

Installing the Microprocessor
NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.
NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you unpack the microprocessor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the microprocessor. If
any of the pins on the microprocessor appear to be bent, contact Dell for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
1.

Unpack the new microprocessor.

If the release lever on the socket is not fully extended, move it to that position.

Align the pin-1 corners of the microprocessor and socket.

NOTICE: When you place the microprocessor in the socket, ensure that all of the pins fit into the corresponding holes on the socket.

When the microprocessor is fully seated in the socket, pivot the release lever back toward the socket until it snaps into place to secure the
microprocessor.

NOTICE: If you are not installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original heat sink assembly when you replace the microprocessor.

If you installed a microprocessor replacement kit from Dell, return the original heat sink assembly and microprocessor to Dell in the same package in
which your replacement kit was sent.
6.

Install the heat sink:
a.

Place the one end of the heat sink under the tab on one side of the retention base.

Lower the heat sink until the heat sink fits securely under the tab on the retention base.

heat sink

retention base tab

retention base

1 securing clip
2 tab
3 slot
4 retention base
7.

Lower the airflow shroud over the heat sink.

Reconnect the cooling fan power cable to the FAN connector on the system board.

Reconnect the power cable to the 12VPOWER connector on the system board.

10.

Close the computer cover.

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

11.

ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
12.

Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing the Chassis Intrusion option to Enabled or Enabled-Silent.

NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion
detector.

Back to Contents Page

Solving Problems
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Diagnostic Lights

Keyboard Problems

Beep Codes

Memory Problems

System Lights

Mouse Problems

Battery Problems

Network Problems

Card Problems

Power Problems

Drive Problems

Printer Problems

Dropped or Damaged Computer

Serial or Parallel Device Problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

Error Messages

System Board Problems

General Problems

Video and Monitor Problems

Diagnostic Lights
To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "A," "B," "C," and "D" on the back panel. The lights can be yellow or green. When
the computer starts normally, the patterns or codes on the lights change as the boot process completes. If the POST portion of system boot completes
successfully, all four lights display solid green. If the computer malfunctions during the POST process, the pattern displayed on the LEDs may help identify
where in the process the computer halted.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
Light
Pattern

Problem Description

Suggested Resolution

off
off
off
off

The computer is in a normal off Verify that the computer is plugged into a working electrical outlet and that you have pressed the power
condition or a possible prebutton.
BIOS failure has occurred.

green A possible BIOS failure has
yellow occurred; the computer is in
yellow the recovery mode.
yellow

Run the BIOS Recovery utility, wait for recovery completion, and then restart the computer.

yellow A possible microprocessor
green failure has occurred.
yellow
yellow

Reinstall the microprocessor and restart the computer.

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

l
l

yellow A possible expansion card
yellow failure has occurred.
green
yellow

1.
2.
3.

4.
5.

green A possible video card failure
yellow has occurred.
green
yellow

l
l
l

If you have one memory module installed, reinstall it and restart the computer.
If you have two or more memory modules installed, remove the modules, reinstall one module, 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.
If the problem persists, contact Dell.

Determine if a conflict exists by removing a card (not the video card) and then restarting the
computer.
If the problem persists, reinstall the card that you removed, remove a different card, and then
restart the computer.
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").
Move each card one at a time to a different PCI slot and restart the computer after each move.
If the problem persists, contact Dell.

If the computer has a video card, remove the card, reinstall it, and then restart the computer.
If the problem still exists, install a video card that you know works and restart the computer.
If the problem persists or the computer has integrated video, contact Dell.

yellow A possible floppy or hard drive
green failure has occurred.
green
yellow

Reseat all power and data cables and restart the computer.

green A possible USB failure has
green occurred.
green
yellow

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

yellow No memory modules are
yellow detected.
yellow
green

yellow
green
yellow
green

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

l
l

yellow Other failure has occurred.
green
green
green

green
green
green
green

The computer is in a normal
operating condition after
POST.

l
l
l

Reinstall all memory modules and restart the computer.
To eliminate the possibility of a faulty memory connector, remove all memory modules, reinstall one
memory module (if the computer supports a single module), and then restart the computer. If the
computer starts normally, move the memory module to a different connector and restart the
computer. Continue until you have identified a faulty connector or reinstalled all modules without
error.

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

Ensure that the cables are properly connected to the system board from the hard drive, CD drive,
and DVD drive.
Check the computer message that appears on your monitor screen.
If the problem persists, contact Dell.

None.

Beep Codes
Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code,
identifies a problem. One possible beep code (code 1-3-1) consists of one beep, a burst of three beeps, and then one beep. This beep code tells you that the
computer encountered a memory problem.
If your computer beeps during start-up:
1.

Write down the beep code on the Diagnostics Checklist.

Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause.

Contact Dell for technical assistance.

Code

Cause

1-1-2

Microprocessor register failure

1-1-3

NVRAM

1-1-4

ROM BIOS checksum failure

1-2-1

Programmable interval timer

1-2-2

DMA initialization failure

1-2-3

DMA page register read/write failure

1-3

Video Memory Test failure

1-3-1 through 2-4-4 Memory not being properly identified or used
3-1-1

Slave DMA register failure

3-1-2

Master DMA register failure

3-1-3

Master interrupt mask register failure

3-1-4

Slave interrupt mask register failure

3-2-2

Interrupt vector loading failure

3-2-4

Keyboard Controller Test failure

3-3-1

NVRAM power loss

3-3-2

NVRAM configuration

3-3-4

Video Memory Test failure

3-4-1

Screen initialization failure

3-4-2

Screen retrace failure

3-4-3

Search for video ROM failure

4-2-1

No time tick

4-2-2

Shutdown failure

4-2-3

Gate A20 failure

4-2-4

Unexpected interrupt in protected mode

4-3-1

Memory failure above address 0FFFFh

4-3-3

Timer-chip counter 2 failure

4-3-4

Time-of-day clock stopped

4-4-1

Serial or parallel port test failure

4-4-2

Failure to decompress code to shadowed memory

4-4-3

Math-coprocessor test failure

4-4-4

Cache test failure

System Lights
Located on the front of the computer, these lights can indicate a computer problem.
Power Light

Problem Description

Suggested Resolution

Solid green

Power is on, and the computer is operating
normally.

Normal operating condition.
If your computer is experiencing a problem, check the back-panel
diagnostics lights for more specific information (see Diagnostic
Lights").

Blinking green

The computer is in the suspended state
(Microsoft® Windows® 2000 and Windows
XP).

Press the power button, move the mouse, or press a key on the
keyboard to wake the computer.

Solid yellow

A device on the system board may be faulty
or incorrectly installed.

See "Power Problems."

Blinking yellow

A power supply or system board failure may
have occurred.

Solid green and a beep code during
POST

A problem was detected while the BIOS was
executing.

See "Beep Codes" for instructions on diagnosing the beep code.
Also, check the diagnostic lights to see if the specific problem is
identified.

Solid green power light and no beep
code and no video during POST

The monitor or the graphics card may be
faulty or incorrectly installed.

Check the diagnostic lights to see if the specific problem is
identified. See "Video and Monitor Problems."

Solid green power light and no beep
code but the computer locks up during
POST

An integrated system board device may be
faulty.

Check the diagnostic lights to see if the specific problem is
identified. If the problem is not identified, contact Dell for technical
assistance.

If the problem persists, contact Dell for technical assistance.
See "Power Problems."
If the problem persists, contact Dell for technical assistance.

Battery Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
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 steps in "Safety Instructions."
Replace the battery — 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 "Replacing the Battery"). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell.

Card Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
Check the card seating and cable —
1.
2.
3.

Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer
cover.
Ensure that each card is firmly seated in its connector. Reseat any loose cards.
Ensure that all cables are firmly connected to their corresponding connectors on the cards. If any cables appear loose, reconnect
them.

For instructions on which cables should be attached to specific connectors on a card, see the card's documentation.
4.

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

Test the video card —
1.

Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer
cover.
Remove all cards except the video card.

If your primary hard drive is connected to a drive controller card and not to one of the system board IDE connectors, leave the drive
controller card installed in the computer.
3.
4.

Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
Run the Dell Diagnostics.
If any of the tests fail, contact Dell.

Test the cards —
1.

Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer
cover.
Reinstall one of the cards that you removed previously.
Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
Run the Dell Diagnostics.

2.
3.
4.

If any of the diagnostics tests fail, the card you just reinstalled is faulty and needs to be replaced.
5.

Repeat this process until you have reinstalled all cards.
If you have reinstalled all of the cards and the problem is not resolved, contact Dell.

Drive Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.

Floppy drive problems
Test the drive —
l
l

Insert another disk to eliminate the possibility that the original floppy disk is defective.
Insert a bootable floppy disk and reboot the computer.

Ensure that the disk is not full or write-protected — Ensure that the disk has available space and that it is not write-protected (locked).
See the following figure.

Test the floppy drive light —
MS-DOS®
Insert a floppy disk, type dir a: at the DOS prompt, and then press .
Microsoft Windows operating systems
Insert a floppy disk, click the Start button, click My Computer, and then double-click the floppy drive icon.
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You may accidentally misalign the heads, which can render the drive inoperable.

Clean the drive — Use a commercially available cleaning kit.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
Remove and reinstall the floppy drive — See the "Drives" section pertinent to your computer chassis.

CD drive problems
Adjust the Windows volume control — Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
l
l

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.

Test the drive with another CD — Insert another CD to eliminate the possibility that the original CD is defective.
Ensure that Windows recognizes the drive — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the CD 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.
Clean the disc — Use a commercially available cleaning kit.

Problems writing to a CD-RW drive
Close other programs — The CD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs.
Try closing all programs before writing to the CD-RW.

DVD drive problems
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.
Test the drive with another DVD — Insert another DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original DVD is defective.
Ensure that Windows recognizes the drive — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the 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.
Clean the disc — Use a commercially available cleaning kit.
Check for interrupt request conflicts — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Hard drive problems
Check the cable connections —
1.
2.
3.

Ensure that the DC power cables from the power supply are firmly connected to the connectors on each drive.
Verify that the interface cable for each drive is firmly connected to the drive and to the system board.
Ensure that the control panel cable is firmly connected to the system board.

If the primary hard drive that contains the operating system does not boot, files in the operating system might be corrupt. For more
information, see your operating system documentation.
Run the Hard-Drive Diagnostics Utility — The Dell IDE Hard-Drive Diagnostics is a utility that tests the hard drive to troubleshoot or confirm
a hard-drive failure.
1.
2.
3.

Turn on your computer (if your computer is already on, restart it).
When F2 = Setup appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press .
Follow the instructions on the screen.

Test the hard drive —
Windows XP and Windows 2000 — Run the Check Disk utility:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

For Windows XP, click the Start button and click My Computer. For Windows 2000, double-click My Computer on the Windows
desktop.
Click the Tools tab.
Under Error-checking, click Check Now.
Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors.
Click Start.

Windows NT® — Run the error-checking utility:
1.
2.

Click the Start button, click My Computer, and then select the hard drive that you want to check.
Click the right mouse button, click Properties, click Tools, and then click Check Now in the Error-checking section.

MS-DOS

Type scandisk x: at an MS-DOS prompt, where x is the hard drive letter, and then press
Run the Dell Diagnostics — . If any of the diagnostics tests fail, contact Dell.

Dropped or Damaged Computer
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
Check the card and cable connections —
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer
cover.
Check all card connections in the computer, and reseat any loose cards.
Ensure that all cables are properly connected and that all components are properly seated in their connectors and sockets.
Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
Run the Dell Diagnostics.
If any of the diagnostics tests fail, contact Dell.

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
Check the telephone line connection — 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.
Check the telephone jack — Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.
Connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack — If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering
machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the
telephone wall jack.
Use a different telephone line — If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
Run the Modem Helper diagnostics — 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.)
Verify that the modem is communicating with Windows® —
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
Click Printers and Other Hardware.
Click Phone and Modem Options.
Click the Modems tab.
Click the COM port for your modem.
Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.

Turn off call waiting (catch-phone) — See your telephone directory for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up
networking connection properties.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
Click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click Phone and Modem Options.
Click your connection type to highlight it.
Click the Dialing Rules tab and click Edit.
Click the To Disable Call Waiting box to place a checkmark in it.
Select the disable code from the drop-down menu (for example, *70).
Click Apply and click OK.

Ensure that you are connected to the Internet — 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.
Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet service provider — Contact an Internet service provider to subscribe.
Contact your Internet service provider — Contact your Internet service provider for assistance.

Error Messages
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
A filename cannot contain any of the following characters: \ / : * ? " < > | — Do not use these characters in filenames.
A required .DLL file was not found — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the
program:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
Click Add or Remove Programs.
Select the program you want to remove.
Click the Change or Remove Program icon.
See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Alert! Previous attempts at booting this system have failed at checkpoint [nnnn ]. For help in resolving this problem, please note this
checkpoint and contact Dell Technical Support — The computer failed to complete the boot routine three consecutive times for the same
error. Contact Dell and report the checkpoint code (nnnn) to the support technician.
Attachment failed to respond — The floppy or hard drive controller cannot send data to the associated drive. See "Floppy drive problems" or
"Hard drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions.
Bad command or file name — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, have put spaces in the proper place, and have used the
correct pathname.
Bad error-correction code (ECC) on disk read — The floppy or hard drive controller detected an uncorrectable read error. See "Floppy drive
problems" or "Hard drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions.
Controller has failed — The hard drive or the associated controller is defective. See "Floppy drive problems" or "Hard drive problems" for
troubleshooting suggestions.
Data error — The floppy or hard drive cannot read the data.
l
l

For the Microsoft® Windows® operating system, run the chkdsk utility to check the file structure of the floppy or hard drive.
For another operating system, run the appropriate corresponding utility.

See your operating system documentation for information on running these utilities.
Decreasing available memory — One or more memory modules might be faulty or improperly seated.
l
l

Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.
See "Memory Problems" for additional troubleshooting suggestions.

Diskette drive 0 seek failure — A cable might be loose or the computer configuration information may not match the hardware
configuration. See "Floppy drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions.
Diskette read failure — The floppy disk may be defective or a cable might be loose.
l
l

If the drive access light turns on, try a different disk.
See "Floppy drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions.

Diskette subsystem reset failed — The floppy drive controller might be faulty. Run the Dell Diagnostics.
Diskette write protected — The floppy disk is write-protected. Slide the write-protect notch to the open position.
Drive not ready — No floppy disk is in the drive. Put a floppy disk in the drive.
Gate A20 failure — One or more memory modules might be faulty or improperly seated.
l
l

Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.
See "Memory Problems" for additional troubleshooting suggestions.

Hard-disk configuration error —
Hard-disk controller failure —
Hard-disk drive failure —
Hard-disk drive failure —
The hard drive failed initialization.
l
l

Run the Dell Diagnostics.
See "Hard drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions.

Insert bootable media — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable floppy disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.
Invalid configuration information - please run SETUP program — The computer configuration information does not match the hardware
configuration. Enter system setup and correct the computer configuration information.
Keyboard failure —
A cable or connector might be loose, or the keyboard or keyboard/mouse controller might be faulty. See "Keyboard Problems."
Memory address line failure at address, read value expecting value — A memory module might be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall
the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Memory Problems" for additional troubleshooting suggestions.
Memory allocation error — The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the operating system, another program, or a utility.
1.
2.
3.

Turn off the computer, wait 30 seconds, and then restart the computer.
Try to run the program again.
If the error message appears again, see the software documentation for additional troubleshooting suggestions.

Memory data line failure at address, read value expecting value —
Memory double word logic failure at address, read value expecting value —
Memory odd/even logic failure at address, read value expecting value —
Memory write/read failure at address, read value expecting value —
A memory module might be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Memory
Problems" for additional troubleshooting suggestions.
Memory size in CMOS invalid — The amount of memory recorded in the computer configuration information does not match the memory
installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error message appears again, contact Dell. See "Memory Problems" for additional
troubleshooting suggestions.
Memory tests terminated by keystroke — A keystroke interrupted the memory test. Restart the computer to rerun the test.
No boot device available — The computer cannot find the floppy disk or hard drive.
l
l
l

If the floppy drive is your boot device, ensure that a bootable floppy disk is in the drive.
If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.
Enter system setup and ensure that the boot sequence information is correct.

No boot sector on hard-disk drive — The computer configuration information in system setup might be incorrect. Enter system setup and
ensure that the computer configuration information for the hard drive is correct.
The operating system might have been corrupted. Reinstall the operating system. See your operating system documentation for
reinstallation information.
No timer tick interrupt — A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning. Run the Dell Diagnostics.
Non-system disk or disk error — The floppy disk in drive A does not have a bootable operating system installed on it. Either replace the
floppy disk with one that has a bootable operating system, or remove the floppy disk from drive A and restart the computer.
Not a boot diskette — The operating system is trying to boot to a floppy disk that does not have a bootable operating system installed on it.
Insert a bootable floppy disk.
Not enough memory or resources. Close some programs and try again — You have too many programs open. 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.
Operating system not found — Contact Dell.
Plug and Play Configuration Error — The computer encountered a problem while trying to configure one or more cards.
1.
2.
3.
4.

Turn your computer off, unplug it from the electrical outlet, and then remove all but one of the cards.
Plug in your computer and reboot it.
If the message reappears, the installed card might be malfunctioning. If the message does not reappear, turn off the computer and
reinsert one of the other cards.
Repeat this process until you identify which card is malfunctioning.

Read fault — The operating system cannot read from the floppy or hard drive, the computer could not find a particular sector on the disk, or
the requested sector is defective. See "Floppy drive problems" or "Hard drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions.
Requested sector not found — The operating system cannot read from the floppy or hard drive, the computer could not find a particular
sector on the disk, or the requested sector is defective. See "Floppy drive problems" or "Hard drive problems" for troubleshooting
suggestions.
Reset failed — The disk reset operation failed. See "Floppy drive problems" or "Hard drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions.
Sector not found — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the floppy or hard drive.
l
l

Run the Windows error-checking utility to check the file structure on the floppy disk or hard drive. See Windows Help for instructions.
If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the floppy disk or hard drive.

Seek error — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the floppy disk or hard drive. See "Floppy drive problems" or "Hard drive
problems" for troubleshooting suggestions.
Shutdown failure — A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning. Run the Dell Diagnostics.
The file being copied is too large for the destination drive — The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk. Try copying
the file to a blank disk or using a larger-capacity disk.
Time-of-day clock stopped — The battery might be dead. Enter system setup and correct the date or time. If the problem persists, contact
Dell. See "Battery Problems" for additional troubleshooting suggestions.
Time-of-day not set-please run the System Setup program — The time or date stored in system setup does not match the computer clock.
Enter system setup and correct the Date and Time options.
Timer chip counter 2 failed — A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning. Run the Dell Diagnostics.
Unexpected interrupt in protected mode — The keyboard controller might be malfunctioning, or a memory module might be loose. Run the
Dell Diagnostics.
WARNING: Dell's Disk Monitoring System has detected that drive [0/1] on the [primary/secondary] EIDE controller is operating
outside of normal specifications. It is advisable to immediately back up your data and replace your hard drive by calling your support
desk or Dell — During initial start-up, the drive detected possible error conditions.
l
l

When your computer finishes booting, immediately back up your data and replace your hard drive.
If no replacement drive is immediately available and the drive is not the only bootable drive, enter system setup and change the
appropriate drive setting to None. Then remove the drive from the computer.

Write fault — The operating system cannot write to the floppy or hard drive. See "Floppy drive problems" or "Hard drive problems" for
troubleshooting suggestions.
Write fault on selected drive — The operating system cannot write to the floppy or hard drive. See "Floppy drive problems" or "Hard drive
problems" for troubleshooting suggestions.
x:\ is not accessible. The device is not ready — The floppy drive cannot read the disk. Insert a floppy disk into the drive and try again.

General Problems
The computer stops responding
Turn the computer off — If your computer locks up and 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 press the power button again
to turn on the computer. You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.

A program stops responding
End the program —

Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT
1.
2.
3.
4.

Press simultaneously.
Click Applications.
Click the program that is no longer responding.
Click End Task.

Windows 98
1.
2.
3.

Press simultaneously.
Click the program that is no longer responding.
Click End Task.

A program crashes repeatedly
Check the software documentation — Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you solve the
problem. Ensure that you properly installed and configured the program. If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

A solid blue screen appears
Turn the computer off — If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper shutdown, press the power button for at least 8 to
10 seconds until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer. The chkdsk program automatically runs
during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Other software problems
Check the software documentation or contact the software manufacturer for troubleshooting information
Back up your files immediately — If your computer has a CD-RW drive or a zip drive installed, see the drive's documentation for
instructions.
Ensure that you have not made an error while entering data — See the program documentation to ensure that the values or characters
you are entering are valid.
Check for viruses — Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive, floppy disks, or CDs.
Restart the computer — Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut down your computer through the Start menu
instead of by pressing the power button. Otherwise, you may lose data.
Check for compatibility —
l
l

Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer and that your computer meets the
minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information.
If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

Ensure that you properly installed and configured the program — See the software documentation for information. If necessary, uninstall
and then reinstall the program.
Run the Dell Diagnostics — If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a software problem.
Check for device driver conflicts —
l
l

Verify that the program's device drivers do not conflict with certain programs.
Call the software manufacturer for technical assistance.

Other technical problems
Go to the Dell Support website —
Go to support.dell.com for help with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions. The support website offers several different
tools to help you, such as Dell Forum—a chat room where you can communicate with other Dell customers about their computers and gain
access to technical support through e-mail.
Call Dell — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell Support website or e-mail service, contact Dell for technical assistance.

General hardware problems
If your computer exhibits one or more of the following symptoms, a device conflict may exist:
l

Your computer locks up, particularly while using a specific device.

A recently added device does not work.

Memory parity errors occur on parity-enabled computers.

A sound card emits noise or demonstrates other problems.

Unintelligible characters print from the printer.

The mouse pointer does not move or "stutters" when it moves.

Messages appear stating that the computer is not operating at maximum performance.

Errors occur and programs crash for no apparent reason.

Nothing displays on the monitor.

Remove any recently added hardware to see if it resolves the conflict — If removing the hardware resolves the conflict, see the hardware
documentation for configuration and troubleshooting instructions. If the problem persists, contact the hardware manufacturer for technical
assistance.
Check your operating system documentation for additional troubleshooting information
Check for interrupt request conflicts — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Keyboard Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
Restart the computer —
l
l

If the mouse is functioning, shut down the computer through the Start menu. After the computer shuts down, press the power button
to restart the computer.
If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or the mouse, press the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the
computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer.

Check the keyboard cable —
l
l
l
l

Ensure that the keyboard cable is connected to the purple connector on the back panel.
Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to 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.

Test the keyboard — Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, and try using the keyboard. If the new keyboard works, the
original keyboard is faulty.
Check the keyboard switch setting — Switch settings are on the bottom of the keyboard, sometimes behind a panel. Ensure that the switch
is set to PS/2, Enhanced XT/AT, or PC/AT. See the keyboard documentation for recommended settings.
Run the Dell Diagnostics — If any of the diagnostics tests fail, contact Dell.
Check for interrupt request conflicts — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Memory Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."
If you receive an insufficient memory message —
l
l
l
l
l

Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem.
Confirm that the computer has sufficient memory to run your programs. See the software documentation for minimum memory
requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (see "Memory").
Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
Restart the computer.
Run the Dell Diagnostics. If any of the diagnostics tests fail, contact Dell.

If you experience other memory problems —
l
l
l

Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory (see "Memory").
Restart the computer.
Run the Dell Diagnostics. If any of the diagnostics tests fail, contact Dell.

Mouse Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
Restart the computer —

1.
2.
3.

Simultaneously press to display the Start menu.
Type u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn Off, and then press .
After the computer turns off, press the power button to restart the computer.

Check the mouse cable —
l
l
l

Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins.
Ensure that the mouse cable is connected to the green connector on the back panel.
Ensure that the cable is firmly connected to the computer.

Test the mouse — Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, and try using the mouse. If the new mouse works, the original
mouse was faulty.
Check the mouse settings —
Windows® XP
1.
2.
3.

Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
Click Mouse.
Try adjusting the settings.

Windows 2000 and Windows NT®
1.
2.
3.

Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
Double-click the Mouse icon.
Try adjusting the settings.

If you are using a PS/2 mouse
1.
2.

Enter system setup and ensure that Mouse Port under the Integrated Devices option is set to On.
Exit system setup and restart the computer.

Reinstall the mouse driver — See "Reinstalling Drivers."
Run the Dell Diagnostics — If any of the diagnostics tests fail, contact Dell.
Check for interrupt request conflicts — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Network Problems
Check the network cable connector — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the network connector on the back of the
computer and the network jack.
Check the network lights on the back of the computer —

Restart the computer and try to log on to the network again
Check your network settings — 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.
Check for interrupt request conflicts — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Power Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
Adjust the Power Properties — Your computer may be in standby or hibernate mode. For information on power conservation modes, see
your operating system documentation.
If the power light is green and the computer is not responding — See "Diagnostic Lights."
If the power light is blinking green — The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse to resume normal
operation.
If the power light is off — The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.
l
l

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

l
l
l
l
l
l

is turned on.
Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on.
Ensure that the main power cable is securely connected to the system board.
Ensure that the front panel cable is securely connected to the system board.
Toggle the voltage selection switch on the back of the computer.
If the problem persists, contact Dell.

If the power light is steady amber — The computer is receiving electrical power, but an internal power problem might exist.
l
l

Ensure that the microprocessor power cable is securely connected to the system board.
If the problem persists, contact Dell.

If the power light is blinking amber — A device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.
l
l
l
l
l

Remove and then reinstall the memory modules.
Remove and then reinstall any cards.
Remove and then reinstall the video card, if applicable.
Toggle the voltage selection switch on the back of the computer.
If the problem persists, contact Dell.

Eliminate interference — Electrical appliances on the same circuit or operating near the computer can cause interference. Other causes of
interference are:
l
l
l
l

Power extension cables
Keyboard and mouse extension cables
Too many devices on a power strip
Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Printer Problems
NOTE: Dell does not cover the printer's warranty. If you need technical assistance for your printer, call the printer's manufacturer. See the printer
documentation for the correct phone number.
Check the printer documentation — See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.
Ensure that the printer is turned on — See the printer documentation for power button information.
Verify the printer cable connections —
l
l

See the printer documentation for cable connection information.
Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer.

Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Verify that the printer is recognized by Windows® —
Windows XP
1.
2.
3.
4.

Click the Start button.
Click Control Panel.
Click Printers and Other Hardware.
Click View installed printers or fax printers.
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.

Click Properties, and then select 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.

Windows 2000 and Windows NT
1.

Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers.
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.

Reinstall the printer driver — See "Reinstalling Drivers."

Serial or Parallel Device Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
NOTE: If you are having a problem with a printer, see "Printer Problems."

Check the documentation for the device — See the device's documentation for troubleshooting procedures.
Ensure that the device is turned on — Firmly press the device's power button.
Check the device cable connections — Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for most device cable connectors to have
missing pins.) Ensure that the device cable is firmly connected to the computer.
Test the device cable — Swap the device's cable with a cable that works properly.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Eliminate interference — Relocate any electrical appliances on the same circuit or operating near the computer that might cause
interference. Remove these other possible causes of interference:
l
l
l
l

Power extension cables
Keyboard and mouse extension cables
Too many devices on a power strip
Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Check the option setting — See the device's documentation for the recommended settings. Then enter system setup and go to the
Integrated Devices option settings. Ensure that the Serial Port setting (for a serial device) or the Parallel Port setting (for a parallel
device) matches the recommended settings.
Check the software documentation — If the problem occurs with particular software, see the software documentation for the recommended
serial or parallel port settings. Ensure that the port settings match the recommended settings.
Run the Dell Diagnostics — If the tests do not complete, contact Dell.
Test the device — Swap the device with a comparable device that works properly.

Sound and Speaker Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.

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.
Check the speaker cable connections — 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.
Ensure that the subwoofer and the speakers are turned on — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have
volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.
Adjust the Windows volume control — 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.
Disconnect headphones from the headphone connector — Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are
connected to the computer's front-panel headphone connector.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Eliminate possible interference — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.
Run the speaker diagnostics — Some speaker systems have self- diagnostics. See the speaker documentation for diagnostics instructions.
Reinstall the audio (sound) driver — See "Reinstalling Drivers."
Check the device option setting — Enter system setup and ensure that Sound under the Integrated Devices option is set to On. Exit
system setup and reboot the computer.
Run the Dell Diagnostics —
l
l

If the tests complete successfully, the controller is functioning properly.
If the problem persists, or if the tests do not complete successfully, contact Dell.

Check for interrupt request conflicts — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

No sound from headphones
Check the headphone cable connection — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector.
Adjust the Windows volume control — 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.

System Board Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions."

Check the power supply cable connections —
1.
2.
3.

Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer
cover.
Ensure that the power cables from the power supply are firmly connected to the connectors on the system board.
Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Perform all checks in "Card Problems"
Perform all checks in "Keyboard Problems"
Reinstall the battery —
1.
2.
3.

Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer
cover.
Remove the battery, wait 5 minutes, and then reinstall the battery.
Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
If the problem still exists, contact Dell.

Replace the Memory Modules —
1.
2.
3.
4.

Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer
cover.
Replace the memory module(s) (see "Memory").
Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
If the RAM count displayed does not correctly match the actual amount of memory installed in the computer, contact Dell.

Video and Monitor Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.

If the screen is blank
NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.
Check the monitor power light — 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.
Check the monitor cable connection —
1.
2.

Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing pins.)
Ensure that the video cable is attached to the blue connector on the back panel.

NOTE: If you have a video card installed, connector the monitor to the connector on the card.
Check the video input switch — Certain digital flat-panel monitors have a switch to select the proper video input.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Swap the power cables — Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective.
Test the video extension cable (if used) — If you are using a video extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is
defective.
Test another monitor — If another monitor is available, connect it to the computer.
Check the diagnostic lights — See "Diagnostic Lights."
Check the card setting — Enter system setup and ensure that Primary Video Controller under the Integrated Devices option is set
correctly. For an AGP card, set Primary Video Controller to AGP. For a PCI card, set Primary Video Controller to Auto. Exit system setup
and reboot the computer.
Run the Dell Diagnostics — If any tests fail, contact Dell.

If the screen is difficult to read
Check the monitor settings — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing
(degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
Move the subwoofer away from the monitor — If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm
(2 ft) away from the monitor.
Move the monitor away from external power sources — 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.
Adjust the Windows® display settings —
Windows XP
1.
2.
3.
4.

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
Click Appearance and Themes.
Click Display and click the Settings tab.
Try different settings for Screen resolution and Color quality.

Windows 98, 2000, and Windows NT®
1.
2.
3.

Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
Double-click the Display icon and click the Settings tab.
Try different settings for Screen area or Desktop area.

Back to Contents Page

Specifications
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Microprocessor
Microprocessor type

Intel® Pentium® 4 and Celeron®; design provides
for future Dell-supported upgrades. A slower
compatibility speed can be set through system setup.

Level 1 (L1) data cache

8 KB

Level 2 (L2) cache

128-KB, 256-KB, 512-KB, or 1-MB (depending on your
computer configuration) pipelined-burst, eight-way
set associative, write-back SRAM

Memory
Type

333- and 400-MHz DDR SDRAM

Memory connectors

small form-factor computer: 2
small desktop computer: 4
small mini-tower computer: 4

Memory capacities

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

Minimum memory

128 MB

Maximum memory

small form-factor computer: 2 GB
small desktop computer: 4 GB
small mini-tower computer: 4 GB

BIOS address

F0000h

Computer Information
Chip set

Intel 865G

Data bus width

64 bits

Address bus width

32 bits

Interrupt levels

BIOS chip

4-MB

NIC

Gigabit integrated network interface with ASF 1.0
support as defined by DMTF
Capable of 10/100/1000 communication
l
l
l

Green — A good connection exists between a
10-Mbps network and the computer.
Orange — A good connection exists between a
100-Mbps network and the computer.
Yellow — A good connection exists between a
1 Gb (or 1000-Mbps) connection.

Off — The computer is not detecting a physical
connection to the network or the controller is
disabled in System Setup.
System clock

800-, 533-, or 400-MHz quad-data rate; 200-, 133-,
or 100-MHz (matches external bus speed)

Video
Type

Integrated chipset video or expansion AGP card

Audio
Type

AC97

Stereo conversion

16-bit analog-to-digital; 20-bit digital-to-analog

Controllers
Hard drive

dual-channel Serial ATA, supporting one device per
channel
Ultra ATA/100 dual-channel bus master EIDE,
supporting one or two devices per channel,
depending on your computer

Expansion Bus
Bus type

PCI 2.2
AGP 3.0

USB 2.0
Bus speed

PCI: 33 MHz
AGP: 66 MHz

Small form-factor computer

low-profile cards are supported (card size =6.35 cm
[2.5 inches] high by 16.76 cm [6.6 inches] long)

AGP

connector

one

connector size

172 pins

connector data width (maximum)

32 bits

bus protocols

8x/4x modes at 1.5 V

PCI

connector

one

connector size

120 pins

connector data width (maximum)

32 bits

Small desktop computer

two half-length PCI cards (card size = 10.67 cm [4.2
inches] high by 17.65 cm [6.95 inches] long)
one low-profile AGP card (card size = 6.35 cm [2.5
inches] high by 16.76 cm [6.6 inches] long)

AGP

connector

one

connector size

172 pins

connector data width (maximum)

32 bits

bus protocols

8x/4x modes at 1.5 V

PCI

connectors

two

connector size

120 pins

connector data width (maximum)

32 bits

Small mini-tower computer

card sizes = three PCI slots support cards up to 27.9
cm (11 inches) long, and one PCI slot and the AGP
slot support cards up to 22.9 cm (9 inches) long

AGP

connector

one

connector size

172 pins

connector data width (maximum)

32 bits

bus protocols

8x/4x modes at 1.5 V

PCI

connectors

four

connector size

120 pins

connector data width (maximum)

32 bits

Drives
Externally accessible:
Small form-factor computer

one bay for a slimline floppy drive
one bay for a slimline CD/DVD drive

Small desktop computer

one 3.5-inch bay
one 5.25-inch bay

Small mini-tower computer

two 3.5-inch drive bays
two 5.25-inch drive bays

Internally accessible:
Small form-factor computer

one bay for a 1-inch-high hard drive

Small desktop computer

one bay for a 1-inch-high hard drive

Small mini-tower computer

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)

6-pin mini-DIN

USB

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

Audio

three connectors for line-in, line-out, and microphone;
one front-panel connector for headphones

System board connectors:
Primary IDE drive

40-pin connector

Secondary IDE drive

40-pin connector

Serial ATA

7-pin connector

Secondary Serial ATA (not available on the
small form-factor or small desktop computers)

7-pin connector

Floppy drive

34-pin connector

CD drive audio interface

4-pin connector

Serial

12-pin connector for optional 2nd serial port card

Fan

3-pin connector

PCI 2.2

120-pin connector

Front audio

10-pin connector

Front panel

34-pin connector

Key Combinations

restarts the computer

<\>

toggles microprocessor speeds on 101-key keyboard
(in MS-DOS® real mode only)

<#>

toggles microprocessor speeds on 102-key keyboard
(in MS-DOS real mode only)

starts embedded system setup (during start-up only)

automatically starts the computer from the network
environment specified by the remote boot
environment (PXE) rather than from one of the
devices in the system setup Boot Sequence option
(during start-up only)

displays a one-time boot menu that lets the user
enter a device for a single boot (during start-up only)

launches the utility partition (if installed) during
computer start-up

launches the hard-drive diagnostics utility during
computer start-up

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")

Hard-drive access light

green

Link integrity light (on integrated network adapter)

green light for 10-Mb operation; orange light for 100Mb operation; yellow light for a 1000-Mb (1-Gb)
operation

Activity light (on integrated network adapter)

yellow blinking light

Diagnostic lights

four lights on the back panel

Standby power light

AUX_PWR on the system board

Power
DC power supply:
Wattage

small form-factor computer: 160 W
small desktop computer: 210 W
small mini-tower computer: 250 W

Heat dissipation

small form-factor computer: 455 BTU/hr
small desktop computer: 500 BTU/hr
small mini-tower computer: 910 BTU/hr

Voltage

90 to 135 V at 50/60 Hz; 180 to 265 V at 50/60 Hz

Backup battery

3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell

Physical
Small form-factor computer:
Height

9.0 cm (3.57 inches)

Width

31.9 cm (12.54 inches)

Depth

35.4 cm (13.93 inches)

Weight

6 kg (14 lbs)

Small desktop computer:
Height

10.6 cm (4.2 inches)

Width

38.9 cm (15.3 inches)

Depth

43.2 cm (17 inches)

Weight

9.9 kg (22 lbs)

Small mini-tower computer:
Height

42.5 cm (16.7 inches)

Width

18.1 cm (7.1 inches)

Depth

44.7 cm (17.6 inches)

Weight

14.5 kg (32 lbs)

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

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

Relative humidity
Operating

20% to 80% (noncondensing)

Storage

5% to 95% (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 40-G half-sine pulse with a change in velocity
of 20 inches/sec (50.8 cm/sec)

Storage

105-G pulse with a change in velocity of 50
inches/sec (127 cm/sec)

Altitude:
Operating

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

Storage

–16 to 10,600 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

Back to Contents Page

Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

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.

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary."
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.
May 2004 8Y945 Rev. A02

Back to Contents Page

Warranty and Return Policy
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide

Dell Computer Corporation ("Dell") manufactures its hardware products from parts and components that are new or equivalent to new in accordance with
industry-standard practices. For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Setup and Quick Reference Guide.

Back to Contents Page

Microsoft® Windows® XP Features
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide
Transferring Information to a New Computer
User Accounts and Fast User Switching
Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Transferring Information to a New Computer
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer wizard to move data from the source computer to the new computer.
You can move data such as:
l

E-mails

Toolbar settings

Window sizes

Internet bookmarks

You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or serial connection, or you can store it on a removable medium, such as a writable CD or
floppy disk.
To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:
1.

Click the Start button, point to All Programs® Accessories® System Tools, and then click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.

On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next.

On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD and click Next.

When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do not click Next at this time.

To copy data from the old computer:
1.

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System CD.

On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks.

Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings.

On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.

On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next.

On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer and click Next.
After the information has been copied, the Completing the Collection Phase screen appears.

Click Finish.

To transfer data to the new computer:
1.
2.

On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.
On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next.
The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer.
When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished screen appears.

Click Finished and restart the new computer.

User Accounts and Fast User Switching
Adding User Accounts
After the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system is installed, the administrator or a user with administrator rights can create additional user accounts.
1.

Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

In the Control Panel window, click User Accounts.

Under Pick a task, click Create a new account.

Under Name the new account, type the name of the new user and click Next.

Under Pick an account type, click one of the following options:

Computer administrator — You can change all computer settings.

Limited — You can change only your own personal settings, such as your password. You cannot install programs or use the Internet.

Click Create Account.

Fast User Switching
NOTE: Fast User Switching is unavailable if your computer is running Windows XP Professional and is a member of a computer domain, or if your
computer has less than 128 MB of memory.
Fast User Switching allows multiple users to access one computer without requiring the previous user to log off.
1.

Click the Start button and click Log Off.

In the Log Off Windows window, click Switch User.

When you use Fast User Switching, programs that previous users were using remain running in the background, so your computer might run slower. Also,
multimedia programs, such as games and DVD software, might not work with Fast User Switching. For more information, see the Windows Help and Support
Center.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network
Connecting to a Network Adapter
Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a network adapter installed and a network cable connected to it.
To connect a network cable:
NOTE: Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.

Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.

NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall jack.

Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device, such as a network wall jack.

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.

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

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

Back to Contents Page

Source Exif Data:
File Type : PDF File Type Extension : pdf MIME Type : application/pdf PDF Version : 1.4 Linearized : No Page Count : 178 Page Layout : OneColumn Page Mode : UseNone Subject : User's Guide Producer : Expert HTML to PDF Converter 7.0; modified using iTextSharp 5.1.3 (c) 1T3XT BVBA Create Date : 2012:01:30 12:13:35 Keywords : manual#, guide#, doc#, documentation#, Open, Manage#, OM#, user's, guide#, users, guide#, Solution#, systems, management#, BIOS#, license#, readme#, read, me#, release, notes#, dell#, Dell#, software#esuprt_desktop#esuprt_optiplex_desktop#OptiPlex, GX270#optiplex-gx270#User's, Guide Author : Dell Inc. Title : Dell OptiPlex GX270 Systems User's Guide Productcode : optiplex-gx270 Typecode : ug Typedescription : user's guide Languagecodes : en-us Sectioncode : Sectiondescription : Publishdate : 2004-05-01 00:00:00 Expirydate : 9999-09-09 00:00:00 Manualurl : http://ftp.dell.com/manuals/all-products/esuprt_desktop/esuprt_optiplex_desktop/optiplex-gx270_user's guide_en-us.pdf Readytocopy : false Futureproductindication : No Categorypathforfutureprodcuts : Businesskeywords : manual# guide# doc# documentation# Open Manage# OM# user's guide# users guide# Solution# systems management# BIOS# license# readme# read me# release notes# dell# Dell# software Filesize : 4959 Modify Date : 2012:07:08 15:57:11-05:00 Creationdate : D:20120130121335 Moddate : D:20120708113423-05'00'
EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools

Dell Optiplex Gx270 Users Manual Systems User's Guide

Navigation menu

Versions of this User Manual:

Views

Navigation