Dell Xps M140 Mxc051 Late 2005 Owners Manual Owner's

2014-11-13

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Dell™ Portable Computers

Owner’s Manual

Model PP19L

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

book.book Page 2 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

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

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary" on page 163.
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.
© 2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, DellNet, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerConnect,
PowerVault, PowerApp, Dell TravelLite, ExpressCharge, and Strike Zone are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Celeron, and Pentium are registered
trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Outlook, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered
trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines
Corporation; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model PP19L

October 2005

Rev. A02

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Contents
Finding Information

A Tour of Your Computer
Front View

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

Left Side View

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

Right Side View
Back View

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19

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

Bottom View

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

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

Setting Up Your Computer
Connecting to the Internet .

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

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

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

Transferring Information to a New Computer .

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

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the
Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the
Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Up a Printer

25
25
26

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

Printer Cable . . . . . . .
Connecting a USB Printer.
Power Protection Devices .

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

29
30

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Surge Protectors . . . . . . . .
Line Conditioners . . . . . . . .
Uninterruptible Power Supplies

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

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Contents

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Using the Display
Adjusting Brightness .

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

Switching the Video Image

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

Setting Display Resolution.

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

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
Numeric Keypad

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

Key Combinations

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

System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CD or DVD Tray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Display Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Radios (Including Wireless Networking and an Internal Card With
Bluetooth® Wireless Technology) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Speaker Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Touch Pad

. . .
. . .

36
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Power Management
Power Management Tips

Power Management Wizard .

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

Setting Sleep Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selecting a Power Scheme . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Battery Alarms and Actions . . . . .
Completing the Power Management Wizard .
Standby Mode .
Hibernate Mode .

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

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

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Power Options Properties
Power Schemes Tab
Alarms Tab . . . . .
Contents

39
39
40
41
41

Power Management Modes .

. . .
. . .

36
37
37
37

Customizing the Touch Pad .

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

42
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Power Meter Tab
Advanced Tab . .
Hibernate Tab . .

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

Dell™ QuickSet Features

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

Clicking the QuickSet Icon . . . . .
Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon .
Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon . .

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

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44

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

Using a Battery
Battery Types .

Battery Performance .

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

Checking the Battery Charge

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

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter . . . .
Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter
Charge Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Health Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . .

Storing a Battery .

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

Charging the Battery .

43
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Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia
Playing a CD or DVD

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

Adjusting the Volume

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

Adjusting the Picture

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

Copying CDs and DVDs.

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

How to Copy a CD or DVD. .
Using Blank CDs and DVDs .
Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . .
Using Dell MediaDirect

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

52
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54

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

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device
S-Video and Standard Audio . . .
S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio.

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

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

56
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Contents

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Composite Video and Standard Audio . . .
Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio .
Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . . . .
Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones .
Enabling the Display Settings for a TV . . .

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

60
62
64
65
66

ExpressCard Types .

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ExpressCard Blanks

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

Using ExpressCards

Installing an ExpressCard

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

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank .

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

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

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68

Using the 5-in-1 Media Memory Card Reader
Media Memory Card Types

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

Media Memory Card Blanks .

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

Installing a Media Memory Card

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

Removing a Media Memory Card or Blank

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

71
71
71
72

10 Setting Up a Home and Office Network
Connecting to a Network Adapter .
Network Setup Wizard

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

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

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network .

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

Determining Your Network Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP .

. . . .

74
74

Dell Diagnostics

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

Drive Problems .

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

. . . .

11 Solving Problems

CD and DVD drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray

Contents

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. . . . .

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81

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If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound
Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

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E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems .
Error Messages

IEEE 1394 Device Problems
Keyboard Problems

. . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

External Keyboard problems
Unexpected characters . . .

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

87
88

Lockups and Software Problems

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

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

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Network Problems .

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ExpressCard Problems .
Power Problems

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

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer

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Printer Problems .

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Scanner Problems

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Sound and Speaker Problems .

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No sound from integrated speakers
No sound from external speakers .
No sound from headphones . . . .

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Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
Video and Display Problems .

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

If the display is blank . . . . . . . . .
If the display is difficult to read . . . .
If only part of the display is readable .

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Contents

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Drivers

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

What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . .
Identifying Drivers . . . . . . .
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

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

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
Restoring Your Operating System

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

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

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore .
Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec . . . . . .
Using the Operating System CD. . . . . . . . .

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99

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100
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103

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105

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12 Adding and Replacing Parts
Before You Begin .

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

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

105
105
106

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108

Removing a Battery .
Installing a Battery .
Hard Drive

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108

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Returning a Hard Drive to Dell
Optical Drives

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111

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111

About the Device Security Screw . . .
Removing and Installing Optical Drives
Memory .

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111
111

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112

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Installing a Memory Module in Connector DIMM B
Installing a Memory Module in Connector DIMM A
Modem (Optional)

. . . . . . . . . . .

113
115

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119

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121

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123

Wireless Mini PCI Card
Hinge Cover

Removing the Hinge Cover
Replacing the Hinge Cover

Contents

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Keyboard

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Removing the Keyboard
Replacing the Keyboard

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

Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology.
Coin-Cell Battery .

125
126
127

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127

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128

Removing the Coin-Cell Battery
Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery

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128
129

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131

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

13 Appendix
Specifications

Using the System Setup Program

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

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Viewing the System Setup Screen
System Setup Screen . . . . . . .
Commonly Used Options . . . . .
Computer Tracking Software

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137
137
138
138

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139

Traveling With Your Computer .

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139

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139
139
140
140
141

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141

Computer, Keyboard, and Display
Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . .
CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . .
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

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

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

Identifying Your Computer . . . .
Packing the Computer . . . . . .
Travel Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traveling by Air . . . . . . . . . .
If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen
Cleaning Your Computer .

137

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142

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142

Class A . . . . . . . . . . . .
Class B . . . . . . . . . . . .
FCC Identification Information
Macrovision Product Notice .

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144

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Contents

book.book Page 10 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

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

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Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals
Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals. .

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145

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163

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175

Contacting Dell .

Glossary
Index .

Contents

144
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145

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book.book Page 11 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Finding Information
NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or
media may not be available in certain countries.
NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
What Are You Looking For?

Find It Here

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•
•

Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as ResourceCD)
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may be optional and may
not ship with your computer.

A diagnostic program for my computer
Drivers for my computer
My device documentation
Notebook System Software (NSS)

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your
computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see
page 97) or to run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
Readme files may be
included on your CD to
provide last-minute
updates about technical
changes to your computer
or advanced technicalreference material for
technicians or experienced
users.

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at
support.dell.com.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

How to set up my computer
Basic troubleshooting information
How to run the Dell Diagnostics
How to set up a printer
Additional information about setting up my computer
How to troubleshoot and solve problems
How to remove and install parts
Specifications
How to contact Dell

Owner’s Manual

NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at
support.dell.com.

Finding Information

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

book.book Page 12 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

What Are You Looking For?

Find It Here

•
•
•
•
•
•

Dell™ Product Information Guide

Warranty information
Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)
Safety instructions
Regulatory information
Ergonomics information
End User License Agreement

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

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License
These labels are located on the bottom of your computer.
• Use the Service Tag to
identify your computer
when you use
support.dell.com or
contact technical
support.
• Enter the Express
Service Code to direct
your call when
contacting technical
support.

Finding Information

book.book Page 13 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

What Are You Looking For?

Find It Here

• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles
from technicians, and online courses, frequently asked
questions
• Community — Online discussion with other Dell
customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such
as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system
• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and
order status, warranty, and repair information
• Service and support — Service call status and support
history, service contract, online discussions with
technical support
• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my
computer configuration, product specifications, and
white papers
• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software
updates

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support
site.
NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers
can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website at
premier.support.dell.com.

• Notebook System Software (NSS)— If you reinstall the To download Notebook System Software:
operating system for your computer, you should also
1 Go to support.dell.com and click Downloads.
reinstall the NSS utility. NSS provides critical updates
2 Enter your Service Tag or product model.
for your operating system and support for Dell™
3 In the Download Category drop-down menu, click All.
® Pentium® M
3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel
4 Select the operating system and operating system
processors, optical drives, and USB devices. NSS is
language for your computer, and click Submit.
necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer.
5 Under Select a Device, scroll to System and
The software automatically detects your computer and
Configuration Utilities, and click Dell Notebook System
operating system and installs the updates appropriate
Software.
for your configuration.
• How to use Windows XP
• How to work with programs and files
• How to personalize my desktop

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

Finding Information

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

book.book Page 14 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

What Are You Looking For?

Find It Here

• How to reinstall my operating system

Operating System CD
NOTE: The Operating System CD may be optional and may
not ship with your computer.
The operating system is already installed on your computer.
To reinstall your operating system, use the Operating
System CD. See "Reinstalling Windows XP" on page 103.
After you reinstall your
operating system, use the
Drivers and Utilities CD
(ResourceCD) to reinstall
drivers for the devices that
came with your computer.
NOTE: The color of your CD
varies based on the
operating system you
ordered.

Finding Information

book.book Page 15 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

1
A Tour of Your Computer
Front View
11

10
9

7
1

display latch release

touch pad

keyboard

display

media control buttons

keyboard and wireless
status lights

power button

speakers

display latches (2)

device status lights

touch pad buttons

A Tour of Your Computer

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

DISPLAY LATCH RELEASE
DISPLAY

— Press to release the display latches and open the display.

— For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on page 33.

P O W E R B U T T O N — Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power
management mode.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data when you turn off your computer, shut down your computer through the
Start menu instead of pressing the power button.
DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

Turns on when you turn on the computer, and blinks when the computer is in a power
management mode.
Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the

light is flashing.

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the
•

Solid green: The battery is charging.

•

Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged.

If the computer is running on a battery, the

light operates as follows:

•

Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off).

•

Flashing orange: The battery charge is low.

•

Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low.

A Tour of Your Computer

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TOUCH PAD

— Provides the functionality of a mouse.

MEDIA CONTROL BUTTONS

— Control CD, DVD, and Media Player playback.

Mute the sound.
Turn the volume down.
Turn the volume up.
Play or pause.
Play the previous track.
Play the next track.
Stop.
Launch Dell MediaDirect or Microsoft® Windows® Media Center Edition. See
"Using Dell MediaDirect" on page 54.
— To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the media control buttons or speakervolume keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Speaker Functions" on page 37.

SPEAKERS

TOUCH PAD BUTTONS

— Touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse.

K E Y B O A R D — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft Windows logo key. For
information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Key Combinations" on page 36.

A Tour of Your Computer

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

KEYBOARD AND WIRELESS STATUS LIGHTS

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:
9

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.
Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.
Turns on when wireless networking is enabled. To enable
or disable wireless networking, press .
Turns on when a card with Bluetooth® wireless
technology is enabled.
NOTE: The card with Bluetooth wireless technology is an
optional feature, so the
light turns on only if you
ordered the card with your computer. For more information,
see the documentation that came with your card.
To turn off only the Bluetooth wireless technology
functionality, right-click the
icon in the notification
area and click Disable Bluetooth Radio.
To quickly enable or disable all wireless devices, press
.

DISPLAY LATCHES

— Keeps the display closed.

A Tour of Your Computer

book.book Page 19 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Left Side View

security cable slot

IEEE 1394 connector

5-in-1 media memory card
reader

air vent

microphone connector

ExpressCard slot

S-video TV-out connector

headphone connector

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store
your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting
the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.
NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot.
— Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer.
For more information, see the instructions included with the device.

SECURITY CABLE SLOT

— The computer uses fans to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer
from overheating.

AIR VENT

A Tour of Your Computer

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

S- V I D E O TV- O U T C O N N E C T O R
Connects your computer to a TV. Also connects digital audio capable devices
using the TV/digital audio adapter cable.
IEEE 1394 C O N N E C T O R — Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as
some digital video cameras.
AUDIO CONNECTORS

Attach headphones or speakers to the
Attach a microphone to the

connector.

5- I N - 1 M E D I A M E M O R Y C A R D R E A D E R — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital
photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card. The 5-in-1 media memory card reader reads the
following digital media memory cards:
• Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO
• MultiMediaCard (MMC)
• Memory Stick
• Memory Stick PRO
• xD-Picture Card
E X P R E S S C A R D S L O T — Supports one ExpressCard. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in
the slot. For more information, see "Using ExpressCards" on page 67.

A Tour of Your Computer

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Right Side View

optical drive bay

USB connectors (2)

network connector (RJ-45)

optical drive-tray eject
button

modem connector (RJ-11)

video connector

O P T I C A L D R I V E B A Y — You can install devices such as a DVD drive or other optical drive in the optical
drive bay. For more information, see "Optical Drives" on page 111.
OPTICAL DRIVE-TRAY EJECT BUTTON

— Press this button to eject a CD or DVD from the optical drive.

( R J - 1 1)
To use the internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector.
For additional information on using the modem, see the online modem
documentation supplied with your computer.

NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the
computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network connector.

A Tour of Your Computer

book.book Page 22 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NETWORK CONNECTOR

(RJ-45 )
Connects the computer to a network. The green and yellow lights next to the
connector indicate activity for wired network communications.
For information on using the network adapter, see the online network adapter
documentation supplied with your computer.

VIDEO CONNECTOR

Connects an external VGA-compatible monitor.

Back View

1
1

USB connectors (2)

AC adapter connector

US B C O N N E C T O R S
Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. You can also connect
the optional floppy drive directly to a USB connector using the optional floppydrive cable.
AC A D A P T E R C O N N E C T O R — Attaches an AC adapter to the computer. The AC adapter converts AC
power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer
turned either on or off.

A Tour of Your Computer

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CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and
power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to
the power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage.
NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the connector, not the
cable itself, and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable.

Bottom View
1

battery

fan

optical-drive locking screw

memory module cover

processor and thermal
module cover

hard drive

battery-bay latch release

modem/Mini PCI/
wireless cover

battery charge gauge

B A T T E R Y — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to
an electrical outlet. For more information, see "Using a Battery" on page 45.

— Covers the compartment that contains the memory modules. For more
information, see page 112.

MEMORY MODULE COVER

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE

— Releases the battery from the battery bay. See "Battery" on page 108.

— The computer uses a fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from
overheating.

FAN

PROCESSOR AND THERMAL MODULE COVER

— Covers the processor and thermal module.
A Tour of Your Computer

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PC I/ W I R E L E S S C O V E R — Covers the compartment that contains the modem, Mini PCI
card, and internal card with Bluetooth wireless technology. For more information, see page 119.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

MODEM/MINI

OPTICAL-DRIVE LOCKING SCREW

— Secures the optical drive in the optical drive bay. For more
information, see "Optical Drives" on page 111.

H A R D D R I V E — Stores software and data. For more information, see "Hard Drive" on page 108 and "Hard
drive problems" on page 81. The size displayed for your hard drive in Windows Explorer is the capacity of
the drive before any operating system or programs are installed.
BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE

page 45.

A Tour of Your Computer

— Provides information on the battery charge status. See "Using a Battery" on

book.book Page 25 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

2
Setting Up Your Computer
Connecting to the Internet
NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.
To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service
provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options:
•

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

•

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

•

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

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

Setting Up Your Internet Connection
To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut:
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection
with a different ISP:
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2 Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer.
The New Connection Wizard appears.
3 Click Connect to the Internet.
4 In the next window, click the appropriate option:
•

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

Setting Up Your Computer

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book.book Page 26 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

•

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

•

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

5 Click Next.
If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the
instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.
6 Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then
click Next.
7 Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet
Problems" on page 82. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in
the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or
try connecting again later.

Transferring Information to a New Computer
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
to move data from a source computer to a new computer. You can transfer data, such as:
•

E-mail messages

•

Toolbar settings

•

Window sizes

•

Internet bookmarks

You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network connection, or you can store it on
a removable medium, such as a writable CD or floppy, for transfer to the new computer.
NOTE: For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, see Microsoft
Knowledge Base Article #305621, titled How to Set Up a Direct Cable Connection Between Two
Computers in Windows XP. This information may not be available in some countries.
For transferring information to a new computer, you must run the Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard. You can use the optional Operating System CD for this process or you can create a
wizard disk with the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard utility.

Setting Up Your Computer

book.book Page 27 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System CD
NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System CD. This CD is optional and may not be included
with all computers.
To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:
1 Start the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.
2 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.
3 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next.
4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the
Windows XP CD and click Next.
5 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.
2 On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks.
3 Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings.
4 On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.
5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next.
6 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.
7 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.
8 Click Finish.
To transfer data to the new computer:
1 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.
2 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.
3 Click Finished and restart the new computer.

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD
To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the optional Operating System CD, you
must create a wizard disk that will allow you to create a backup image file to removable media.

Setting Up Your Computer

book.book Page 28 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

To create a wizard disk, use your new computer with Windows XP and perform the following
steps:
1 Click the Start button.
2 Click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.
3 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.
4 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next.
5 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I want to create a Wizard Disk in the
following drive: and click Next.
6 Insert the removable media, such as a floppy disk or CD, and click OK.
7 When the disk creation completes and the Now go to your old computer message appears, do
not click Next.
8 Go to the old computer.
To copy data from the old computer:
1 On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.
2 Click the Start button and click Run.
3 In the Open field on the Run window, browse to the path for fastwiz (on the appropriate
removable media) and click OK.
4 On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.
5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next.
6 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.
7 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.
8 Click Finish.

Setting Up Your Computer

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To transfer data to the new computer:
1 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.
2 On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring
your settings and files and click Next. Follow the instructions on the screen.
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.
3 Click Finished and restart the new computer.
NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search dell.support.com for document #PA1089586
(How Do I Transfer Files From My Old Computer to My New Dell Computer Using the Microsoft®
Windows® XP Operating System?).
NOTE: Access to the Dell Knowledge Base document may not be available in some countries.

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

Obtain and install updated drivers.

•

Connect the printer to the computer.

•

Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.

For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the printer manufacturer.

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

Setting Up Your Computer

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Connecting a USB Printer
NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1 Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.
2 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The
USB connectors fit only one way.

3
2

USB connector on
computer

USB printer cable

connector on printer

3 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard
window appears, click Cancel.
4 Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.

Power Protection Devices
Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures:

•

Surge protectors

•

Line conditioners

•

Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Setting Up Your Computer

book.book Page 31 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Surge Protectors
Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help prevent damage to your
computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or after power
interruptions. Some surge protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain types
of damage. Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge protector. A device with a
higher joule rating offers more protection. Compare joule ratings to determine the relative
effectiveness of different devices.
NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or power interruptions
caused by nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in your area, disconnect the telephone line
from the telephone wall jack and disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet.
Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem protection. See the surge protector
documentation for modem connection instructions.
NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the network cable from
the network wall jack during electrical storms.

Line Conditioners
NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.
Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level.

Uninterruptible Power Supplies
NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage.
NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other
devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection.

A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices contain a battery that
provides temporary power to connected devices when AC power is interrupted. The battery
charges while AC power is available. See the UPS manufacturer documentation for information
on battery operating time and to ensure that the device is approved by Underwriters
Laboratories (UL).

Setting Up Your Computer

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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Setting Up Your Computer

book.book Page 33 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

3
Using the Display
Adjusting Brightness
When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the
brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing and the up- or down-arrow key
on the keyboard.
The Dell QuickSet Brightness Meter shows the current brightness setting for the display. Rightclick the
icon in the taskbar to enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen.
NOTE: By default, the Brightness Meter appears in the lower-right
corner of the display. You can click and drag the meter to a
preferred location.
NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your
portable computer, not monitors that you attach to your portable
computer. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to change the brightness
level, the Brightness Meter appears, but the brightness level on the monitor does not change.
You can enable or disable the Brightness Meter from the QuickSet taskbar menu. When the
meter is enabled, press the following keys to adjust brightness:
•

Press and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not
on an external monitor).

•

Press and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the integrated display only
(not on an external monitor).

For more information on using QuickSet, right-click the

icon in the taskbar and click Help.

Switching the Video Image
When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector)
attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the external
device.
Press to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only,
or the display and the external device simultaneously.

Using the Display

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Setting Display Resolution
To display a program at a specific resolution, both the graphics card and the display must
support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.
Before you change any of the default display settings, make a note of the default settings for
future reference.
If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings
adjust automatically to the closest supported values.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes.
3 Under Pick a task..., click the area you want to change, or under or pick a Control Panel icon,
click Display.
4 Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.
NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen.

Using the Display

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4
Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
Numeric Keypad

numeric keypad

The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the
keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of
the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, press and the desired key after enabling the
keypad.
•

To enable the keypad, press . The

•

To disable the keypad, press again.

light indicates that the keypad is active.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Key Combinations
System Functions
Opens the Task Manager window.

Battery

Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter. This feature
is not supported in Dell MediaDirect. For more
information, see "Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter" on
page 46.

CD or DVD Tray

Ejects the tray out of the drive (if Dell QuickSet is
installed). This feature is not supported in Dell
MediaDirect. For more information on QuickSet, see
"Dell™ QuickSet Features" on page 44.

Display Functions

Switches the video image to the next display option. The
options include the integrated display, an external
monitor, and both displays simultaneously.

and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not
on an external monitor).
and down-arrow
key

Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not
on an external monitor).

Radios (Including Wireless Networking and an Internal Card With
Bluetooth® Wireless Technology)

Enables and disables radios, including wireless
networking and Bluetooth wireless technology.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

book.book Page 37 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Power Management

Activates a power management mode. You can
reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different
power management mode using the Advanced tab in the
Power Options Properties window. See "Power
Management Modes" on page 41.

Speaker Functions

Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and
external speakers, if attached.

Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and
external speakers, if attached.

Enables and disables the integrated speakers and external
speakers, if attached.

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions
Windows logo key and

Minimizes all open windows.

Windows logo key and

Maximizes all windows.

Windows logo key and Runs Windows Explorer. This opens the same
window as double-clicking "My Computer" on your
desktop.
Windows logo key and Opens the Run dialog box.
Windows logo key and Opens the Search Results dialog box.
Windows logo key and

Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box
(if the computer is connected to a network).

Windows logo key and

Opens the System Properties dialog box.

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click
Printers and Other Hardware, and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see
the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see page 13.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

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Touch Pad
The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow you to move the cursor
on the display. Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons as you would use a mouse.
1

touch pad

•

To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad.

•

To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to
press the left touch-pad button.

•

To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the
touch pad. On the second tap, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected
object by sliding your finger over the surface.

•

To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad or
use your thumb to press the left touch-pad button twice.

Customizing the Touch Pad
You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad or adjust their settings.
1 Open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click Mouse. For
information about the Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access
the Help and Support Center, see page 13.
2 In the Mouse Properties window, click the Touch Pad tab to adjust touch pad settings.
3 Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

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5
Power Management
Power Management Tips
NOTE: See "Using a Battery" on page 45 for more information on conserving battery power.
•

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible because battery life is largely
determined by the number of times the battery is used and recharged.

•

Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer
unattended for long periods of time.

•

You can use the Power Management Wizard to select options to optimize your computer’s
power usage. These options can also be set to change when you press the power button, close
the display, or press .

Power Management Wizard
NOTE: The Power Management Wizard is not available if you have restricted access rights.
Click or double-click the

icon to open the Power Management Wizard.

The first two screens of the wizard—Welcome and What is Power Management?—describe and
define various power management options.
NOTE: On the What is Power Management? screen, you can select Do not show this page again. When
you select this option, the Welcome screen also does not appear again.
Use the screens that follow the Welcome and What is Power Management? screens to set
various power management options, including sleep modes, power schemes, and low batterycharge alarms.

Setting Sleep Modes
This screen defines standby and hibernate modes. From the screen you can:
•

Set the standby-mode password option.

•

Enable or disable hibernate mode.

•

Select how the computer will respond when you close the display:
–

Choose no action.

–

Enter standby mode.

–

Enter hibernate mode.

Power Management

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•

Select how the computer will respond when you press the power button:
–

Choose no action.

–

Enter standby mode.

–

Enter hibernate mode.

–

Shut down Microsoft Windows and turn off the computer.

–

Prompt a user for an action (Ask me what to do).

Select how the computer will respond when you press :
–

Choose no action.

–

Enter standby mode.

–

Enter hibernate mode.

–

Shut down Microsoft Windows and turn off the computer.

–

Prompt a user for an action (Ask me what to do).

Selecting a Power Scheme
NOTE: The Network Disabled power scheme disables your internal network and wireless activity when
your computer is running on battery power. When your computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the
Network Disabled power scheme disables only your wireless activity. You must select the power scheme
through QuickSet (not Microsoft® Windows®) for the Network Disabled power scheme to work.
The Selecting a Power Scheme screen allows you to create, edit, and switch between power
schemes. In addition, you can delete power schemes that you create, but you cannot delete
Dell™ QuickSet predefined power schemes (Maximum Battery, Maximum Performance,
Presentation, and Network Disabled).
NOTE: QuickSet automatically adds the word (QuickSet) after the names of power schemes created
using QuickSet.
All QuickSet power schemes are displayed in a drop-down menu near the center of the screen.
The power settings for each scheme are below the name of the current selection. The power
settings are listed separately for when the computer is running on battery or connected to an
electrical outlet.
The Power Management Wizard also allows you to associate the display brightness level with a
power scheme. You must enable brightness-level power schemes through QuickSet in order to
set the brightness level.
The display brightness, internal network-card activity, and wireless activity features are not
available through the Control Panel power schemes. In order to use these features, you must set
them through QuickSet power schemes.
NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors that
you attach to your portable computer. If your computer is in CRT-only mode and you try to change the
brightness level, the Brightness Meter appears, but the brightness level on the monitor does not change.

Power Management

book.book Page 41 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Setting Battery Alarms and Actions
This screen allows you to enable the low-battery and critical-battery alarms and to change
settings for the alarms. For example, you can set the low-battery alarm to 20 percent to remind
you to save work and switch to AC power, and you can set the critical-battery alarm to
10 percent to enter hibernate mode. From the screen, you can:
•

Select whether the alarm will notify you by sound or text.

•

Adjust the power level at which you want the alarm to notify you.

•

Select how the computer will respond when the alarm notifies you:
–

Choose no action.

–

Enter standby mode.

–

Enter hibernate mode.

–

Shut down Windows and turn off the computer.

Completing the Power Management Wizard
This screen summarizes the QuickSet power scheme, sleep mode, and battery alarm settings for
your computer. Review the settings you have selected and click Finish.
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the

icon in the taskbar and click Help.

Power Management Modes
Standby Mode
Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a
predetermined period of inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby mode, it
returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby mode.
NOTICE: If your computer loses AC or battery power while in standby mode, it may lose data.
To enter standby mode, click the Start button, click Turn off computer, and then click Stand by.
Depending on how you set the power management options on the Advanced tab in the Power
Options Properties window, use one of the following methods:
•

Press the power button.

•

Close the display.

•

Press .

To exit standby mode, press the power button or open the display depending on how you set the
options on the Advanced tab. You cannot make the computer exit standby mode by pressing a
key or touching the touch pad.

Power Management

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Hibernate Mode
Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive
and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits hibernate mode, it
returns to the same operating state it was in before entering hibernate mode.
NOTICE: You cannot remove devices while your computer is in hibernate mode.
Your computer enters hibernate mode if the battery charge level becomes critically low.
To manually enter hibernate mode, click the Start button, click Turn off computer, press and
hold , and then click Hibernate. Depending on how you set the power management
options on the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window, use one of the following
methods to enter hibernate mode:
•

Press the power button.

•

Close the display.

•

Press .
NOTE: Some ExpressCards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove
and reinsert the card, or simply restart (reboot) your computer. See "Installing an ExpressCard" on
page 67.

To exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit
hibernate mode. You cannot make the computer exit hibernate mode by pressing a key or
touching the touch pad. For more information on hibernate mode, see the documentation that
came with your operating system.

Power Options Properties
The Power Options Properties window helps you to manage power consumption and monitor
battery charge status. To access the Windows Power Options Properties window, click the Start
button, point to Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance, and click Power Options.

Power Schemes Tab
The Power schemes drop-down menu displays the selected preset power scheme. Keep the
default Portable/Laptop power scheme to maximize battery power.
Windows XP controls the performance level of the processor depending on the power scheme
you select. You do not need to make any further adjustments to set the performance level.
Each preset power scheme has different time-out settings for entering standby mode, turning
off the display, and turning off the hard drive. For more information on power management
options, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see
page 13.

Power Management

book.book Page 43 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Alarms Tab
NOTE: To enable audible alarms, click each Alarm Action button and select Sound alarm.
The Low battery alarm and Critical battery alarm settings alert you with a message when the
battery charge falls below a certain percentage. When you receive your computer, the Low
battery alarm and Critical battery alarm check boxes are selected. It is recommended that you
continue to use these settings. See "Using a Battery" on page 45 for more information on lowbattery warnings.

Power Meter Tab
The Power Meter tab displays the current power source and amount of battery charge
remaining.

Advanced Tab
The Advanced tab allows you to:
•

Set power icon and standby mode password options.

•

Select how the computer will respond when you close the display:

•

–

Choose no action.

–

Enter standby mode.

–

Enter hibernate mode.

Select how the computer will respond when you press the power button:
–

Choose no action.

–

Enter standby mode.

–

Enter hibernate mode.

–

Shut down Microsoft Windows and turn off the computer.

–

Prompt a user for an action (Ask me what to do).

Select how the computer will respond when you press :
–

Choose no action.

–

Enter standby mode.

–

Enter hibernate mode.

–

Shut down Microsoft Windows and turn off the computer.

–

Prompt a user for an action (Ask me what to do).

To program these functions, click an option from the corresponding drop-down list and then
click OK.

Power Management

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Hibernate Tab
The Hibernate tab lets you enable hibernate mode by clicking the Enable hibernation check
box.

Dell™ QuickSet Features
NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer.
Dell QuickSet is activated from the
icon on the taskbar and functions differently when you
click, double-click, or right-click the icon.

Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Click the

icon to perform the following tasks:

•

Adjust power management settings using the Power Management Wizard (see page 39).

•

Adjust the size of icons and toolbars.

•

Select a power scheme that you set in the Power Management Wizard (see page 39).

•

Turn presentation mode on or off.

Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Double-click the
icon to adjust power management settings using the Power Management
Wizard (see page 39).

Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon
Right-click the

icon to perform the following tasks:

•

Enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen (see page 33).

•

Enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen (see page 51).

•

Turn the wireless activity indicator on or off (see page 40).

•

View Dell QuickSet Help.

•

View the version and copyright date of the QuickSet program installed on your computer.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the

Power Management

icon in the taskbar and click Help.

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6
Using a Battery
Battery Types
See "Specifications" on page 131 for information on supported batteries.

Battery Performance
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or
separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer.
For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™
portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. Use a battery to run the
computer when it is not connected to an electrical outlet. One battery is supplied as standard
equipment in the battery bay.
NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer
to an electrical outlet the first time you use the computer. For best results, operate the computer with the
AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, access the Control Panel→
Power Options→ Power Meter tab.
Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.
NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending
on how often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a
new battery during the life of your computer.
Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited
to, the following:
•

Using optical drives

•

Using wireless communications devices, ExpressCards, or USB devices

•

Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs
such as 3D games

•

Running the computer in maximum performance mode (see page 40)
NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD

or DVD.

Using a Battery

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You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer. You can also set
power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low.
CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the
battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your
Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.
CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a
charge, call your local waste disposal or environmental agency for advice on disposing of a battery.
See "Battery Disposal" in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture,
incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures above 60°C (140°F). Keep the battery
away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may
leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.

Checking the Battery Charge
The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and
icon,
the battery charge gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge.

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter
If Dell QuickSet is installed, press to display the QuickSet Battery Meter.
The Battery Meter window displays status, charge level, and charge completion time for the
battery in your computer.
The following icons appear in the Battery Meter window:
The computer is running on battery power.
The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is charging.
The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is fully charged.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the

icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter
The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter,
double-click the
icon on the taskbar. For more information about the Power Meter tab, see
"Power Management" on page 39.
If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a

Using a Battery

icon appears.

book.book Page 47 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Charge Gauge
Before you insert a battery, press the status button on the battery charge gauge to illuminate the
charge-level lights. Each light represents approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge.
For example, if the battery has 80 percent of its charge remaining, four of the lights are on. If no
lights appear, the battery has no charge.

Health Gauge
The battery operating time is largely determined by the number of times it is charged. After
hundreds of charge and discharge cycles, batteries lose some charge capacity, or battery health.
To check the battery health, press and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at
least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of
its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights
appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing
the battery. See "Specifications" on page 131 for more information about the battery operating
time.

Low-Battery Warning
NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery warning.
Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate
mode begins automatically.
A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. For
more information about low-battery alarms, see "Power Management" on page 39.

Charging the Battery
NOTE: Without Dell™ ExpressCharge™, the AC adapter charges a completely discharged 6-cell battery
in approximately 2 hours and a 9-cell battery in approximately 3 hours with the computer turned off.
Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer as long as
you like. The battery’s internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.
When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is
connected to an electrical outlet, the computer checks the battery charge and temperature. If
necessary, the AC adapter then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge.
If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot environment, the
battery may not charge when you connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
The battery is too hot to start charging if the
light flashes alternately green and orange.
Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and allow the computer and the battery to
cool to room temperature. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue
charging the battery.
For more information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 91.

Using a Battery

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Storing a Battery
Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery
discharges during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully before
you use it.

Using a Battery

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7
Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia
Playing a CD or DVD
NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when
you are not using the drive.
NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs to prevent damage to your
CD/DVD drive or discs.
1 Press the eject button on the front of the drive.
2 Pull out the tray.

CD/DVD tray

3 Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray and snap the disc onto the spindle.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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NOTE: If you use a CD/DVD drive that shipped with another computer, you need to install the drivers and
software necessary to play CDs or DVDs or write data. For more information, see the Drivers and Utilities
CD (the Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not be available for your computer or in certain
countries).
4 Push the tray back into the drive.
To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that
came with your computer.
NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.
The CD player includes the following basic buttons:
Play.
Move backward within the current track.
Move forward within the current track.
Go to the previous track.
Go to the next track.
Pause.
Stop.
Eject.

The DVD player includes the following basic buttons:
Play.
Stop.
Restart the current chapter.
Fast forward.
Fast reverse.
Go to the next title or chapter.
Go to the previous title or chapter.
Continuously play the current title or chapter.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

book.book Page 51 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Pause.
Advance a single frame while in pause mode.
Eject.

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

Adjusting the Volume
NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment, and then click
Volume Control.
2 In the Volume Control window, click and drag the bar in the Volume Control column and
slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.
For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.
The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either
right-click the
icon in the taskbar or press the volume control buttons to enable or disable
the Volume Meter on the screen.
1

3
1

volume icon

Volume Meter

mute icon

When the Volume Meter is enabled, adjust the volume with the volume control buttons or by
pressing the following key combinations:
•

Press to increase the volume.

•

Press to decrease the volume.

•

Press to mute the volume.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the

icon in the taskbar and click Help.
Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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Adjusting the Picture
If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much
memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes.
3 Under Pick a task..., click Change the screen resolution.
4 In the Display Properties window, click and drag the bar in Screen resolution to reduce the
screen resolution setting.
5 Click the drop-down menu under Color quality, and then click Medium (16 bit).
6 Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Copying CDs and DVDs
NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when creating CDs or DVDs.
This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD
(combo) drive.
NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use
Sonic DigitalMedia for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on
your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Sonic DigitalMedia and then click
the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.

How to Copy a CD or DVD
NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive
and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support
website at www.sonic.com.
The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to and read DVD+/-R,
DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but they cannot write to and may not read
DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.
NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic
DigitalMedia.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Sonic→ DigitalMedia Projects, and then
click Copy.
2 Under the Copy tab, click Disc Copy.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

book.book Page 53 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

3 To copy the CD or DVD:
•

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

•

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

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

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

Read

Write

Rewritable

CD-R

Yes

CD-RW

Yes

Media Type

Read

Write

Rewritable

CD-R

Yes

CD-RW

Yes

DVD+R

Yes

DVD-R

Yes

DVD+RW

Yes

DVD-RW

Yes

DVD+R DL

Yes

DVD-Writable Drives

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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Media Type

Read

Write

Rewritable

DVD-R DL

Maybe

DVD-RAM

Maybe

Helpful Tips
•

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

•

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

•

You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic DigitalMedia.

•

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

•

Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may not support all
available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by your DVD player, see the
documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer.

•

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

•

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

See the Sonic website at www.sonic.com for additional information.

Using Dell MediaDirect
NOTE: Dell QuickSet, which is automatically installed and enabled on your computer, is necessary for
Dell MediaDirect to function. Changing or disabling QuickSet default settings can limit Dell MediaDirect
functionality. For more information about Dell QuickSet, see "Dell™ QuickSet Features" on page 44.
If you have Microsoft Windows Media Center Edition or another version of Windows XP with
Dell Media Experience installed, you can press the Dell MediaDirect button
to launch
either media program.

•

If you press the Dell MediaDirect button while you are logged in, either Windows XP Media
Center Manager or Dell Media Experience launches, depending on your system setup. If both
programs are present, Windows XP Media Center Manager will launch.

•

When your computer is off, you can press the Dell MediaDirect button to start the computer
and automatically launch the media application. The computer can either be on and running
Windows or it can be in the hibernate, standby, or off mode.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

book.book Page 55 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

NOTICE: You cannot reinstall the Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive.
Contact Dell for assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.

1
1

Dell MediaDirect button

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device
NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio device are not
included with your computer. Cables may be purchased at most consumer electronics stores. The
TV/digital audio adapter cable is available for purchase from Dell.
Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with a standard S-video cable
(available from Dell), enables you to connect the computer to a TV.
1

3
4
5

S-video TV-out connector

S/PDIF digital audio
connector

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

composite video-output
connector

S-video connector

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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Your TV has either an S-video input connector or a composite video-input connector.
Depending on what type of connector is available on your TV, you can use a commercially
available S-video cable or composite video cable to connect your computer to your TV.
It is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the
following combinations.
NOTE: See the diagrams at the beginning of each subsection to help you determine which method of
connection you should use.
•

S-video and standard audio

•

Composite video and standard audio

When you finish connecting the video and audio cables between your computer and your TV,
you must enable your computer to work with the TV. See "Enabling the Display Settings for a
TV" on page 66 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
Additionally, if you are using S/PDIF digital audio, see "Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio" on
page 64.

S-Video and Standard Audio

audio connector

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

S-video TV-out connector

book.book Page 57 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

2
3

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

standard S-video cable

standard audio cable

1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
NOTE: You can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer
(without the TV/digital audio adapter cable) if your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF
digital audio.
2 Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video output connector on the computer.
1

3
4
5

S-video TV-out connector

S/PDIF digital audio
connector

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

composite video-output
connector

S-video connector

3 Plug the other end of the S-video cable in to the S-video input connector on your TV.
4 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable in to the headphone connector on your
computer.
5 Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the audio input
connectors on your TV or other audio device.
Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

6 Turn on the TV and any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the
computer.
7 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 66 to ensure that the computer
recognizes and works properly with the TV.

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

S-video TV-out connector

2
3
1

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

S-video cable

S/PDIF digital audio cable

book.book Page 59 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

1
2
1

S-video cable

S/PDIF digital audio cable

1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
2 Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on your
computer.
3 Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video input connector on the TV/digital audio
adapter cable.
2

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

S-video cable

4 Plug the other end of the S-video cable in to the S-video input connector on the TV.
5 Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the digital audio connector on the
TV/digital audio adapter cable.
1

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

S/PDIF digital audio cable

6 Plug the other end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the audio input connector on your
TV or other audio device.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

book.book Page 60 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

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7 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on
the computer.
8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 66 to ensure that the computer
recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Composite Video and Standard Audio

audio input connector

composite video-input
connector

2
3

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

composite video cable

standard audio cable

book.book Page 61 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
2 Connect the standard video to composite video adapter cable to the S-video TV-out
connector on the computer.
3 Plug one end of the composite video cable in to the composite video-input connector on the
standard video to composite video cable.
1

standard S-video to
composite video adapter

composite video cable

4 Plug the other end of the composite video cable in to the composite video-input connector on
the TV.
5 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable in to the headphone connector on the
computer.
6 Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the audio input
connectors on your TV or other audio device.
7 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on
the computer.
8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 66 to ensure that the computer
recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

composite video-input
connector

2
3

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

composite video cable

standard audio cable

book.book Page 63 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
2 Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on the
computer.
3 Plug one end of the composite video cable in to the composite video-input connector on the
TV/digital audio adapter cable.
1
2

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

composite video-input
connector

4 Plug the other end of the composite video cable in to the composite video-input connector on
the TV.
5 Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the S/PDIF audio connector on the
TV/digital audio adapter cable.
1

TV/digital audio adapter
cable

S/PDIF digital audio cable

6 Plug the other end of the digital audio cable in to the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or
other audio device.
7 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on
the computer.
8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 66 to ensure that the computer
recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio
If your computer has a DVD drive, you can enable digital audio for DVD playback.
1 Click Start→ Programs→ PowerDVD to launch the Cyberlink PowerDVD application.
2 Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.
If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.
3 Click the Settings option.

4 Click the DVD option.

5 Click the DVD Audio Setting icon.

6 Click the arrows beside the Speaker Configuration setting to scroll through the options, and
select the SPDIF option.

7 Click the Back button once, and then click the Back button again to return to the main menu
screen.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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Enabling S/PDIF in the Windows Audio Driver

1 Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area.
2 Click the Options menu and then click Advanced Controls.
3 Click Advanced.
4 Click S/PDIF Interface.
5 Click Close.
6 Click OK.

Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones
NOTE: The CL headphone feature is available only if your computer has a DVD drive.
If your computer has a DVD drive, you can enable digital audio for DVD playback.
1 Click Start→ Programs→ PowerDVD to launch the Cyberlink PowerDVD program.
2 Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.
If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.
3 Click the Settings option.

4 Click the DVD option.

5 Click the DVD Audio Setting icon.

6 Click the arrows beside the Speaker Configuration setting to scroll through the options, and
select the Headphones option.
7 Click the arrows beside the Audio listening mode setting to scroll through the options, and
select the CL Headphone option.
8 Click the arrows beside the Dynamic range compression option to select the most suitable
option.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

book.book Page 66 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

9 Click the Back button once, and then click the Back button again to return to the main menu
screen.

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV
Video Controller

NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the computer before you
enable the display settings.

1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2 Double-click Display and click the Settings tab.
3 Click Advanced.
4 Click the tab for your video card.
5 In the display devices section, select the appropriate option for using either a single display or
multiple displays, ensuring that the display settings are correct for your selection.
NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, click the Start button and click

Help and Support. Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose
problems and click My Computer Information.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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8
Using ExpressCards
ExpressCard Types
See "Specifications" on page 131 for information on supported ExpressCards.
NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.

ExpressCard Blanks
Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the ExpressCard slot. Blanks protect
unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no ExpressCard is
installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer.
To remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 68.

Installing an ExpressCard
You can install an ExpressCard in the computer while the computer is running. The computer
automatically detects the card.
ExpressCards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) or a label to
indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If
card orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
To install an ExpressCard:
1 Hold the card with the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need to be in the "in"
position before you insert the card.
2 Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.
If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and
try again.

Using ExpressCards

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

book.book Page 68 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

ExpressCard

The computer recognizes the ExpressCard and automatically loads the appropriate device
driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the floppy
disk or CD that came with the ExpressCard.

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank
NOTICE: Use the ExpressCard configuration utility (click the
icon in the taskbar) to select a card
and stop it from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the
configuration utility, you could lose data.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
Press the latch and remove the card or blank. For some latches, you must press the latch twice:
once to pop the latch out, and then a second time to pop the card out.
Save a blank to use when no ExpressCard is installed in a slot. Blanks protect unused slots from
dust and other particles.

Using ExpressCards

book.book Page 69 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

release button

ExpressCard

Using ExpressCards

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Using ExpressCards

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9
Using the 5-in-1 Media Memory Card Reader
Media Memory Card Types
The 5-in-1 media memory card reader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share
digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card.
NOTE: A media memory card is not a bootable device.
The 5-in-1 media memory card reader reads the following media memory cards:
•

Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO

•

MultiMediaCard (MMC)

•

Memory Stick

•

Memory Stick PRO

•

xD-Picture Card

Media Memory Card Blanks
Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the 5-in-1 media memory card slot.
Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no card is
installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer.
To remove the blank, see "Removing a Media Memory Card or Blank" on page 72.

Installing a Media Memory Card
You can install a media memory card in the computer while the computer is running. The
computer automatically detects the card.
Media memory cards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) or a
label to indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect
insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.

Using the 5-in-1 Media Memory Card Reader

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To install a media memory card:
1 Hold the card with the top side of the card facing up.
2 Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.
If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and
try again.

5-in-1 media memory card
slot

media memory card

The computer recognizes the media memory card and automatically loads the appropriate
device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the
CD that came with the media memory card, if applicable.

Removing a Media Memory Card or Blank
NOTICE: Use the media memory card configuration utility (click the
icon in the taskbar) to select a
card and stop it from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in
the configuration utility, you could lose data.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
Press the card in to release and remove the card or blank.
Save a blank to use when no media memory card is installed in the slot. Blanks protect unused
slots from dust and other particles.

Using the 5-in-1 Media Memory Card Reader

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10
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:
1 Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.
NOTE: Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.
2 Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device, such as a
network wall connector.
NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall connector.

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.
2 On the Network Setup Wizard welcome screen, click Next.
3 Click Checklist for creating a network.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the
integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1) or later.

4 Complete the checklist and required preparations.
5 Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network
NOTE: These networking instructions do not apply to internal cards with Bluetooth® wireless

technology or cellular products.

Determining Your Network Type
NOTE: Most wireless networks are of the infrastructure type.
Wireless networks fall into two categories—infrastructure networks and ad-hoc networks. An
infrastructure network uses routers or access points to connect several computers. An ad-hoc
network does not use routers or access points and consists of computers that broadcast to one
another. For additional assistance with setting up your wireless connection, go to
support.dell.com and search for the keyword wireless setup.
1

infrastructure network

ad-hoc network

Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP
Your wireless network card requires specific software and drivers in order to connect to a
network. The software is already installed. If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the
instructions included in the user's guide for your wireless network card.
The user’s guide is located on the optional Drivers and Utilities CD in the "User’s GuidesNetwork User’s Guides" category. The user’s guide is also available on the Dell Support website
at support.dell.com and may also be located on your computer desktop.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not be available for your computer or in certain
countries.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

book.book Page 75 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

When you turn on your computer, a pop-up appears from the network icon in the notification
area (located in the lower-right corner of the Windows desktop) when a network, for which your
computer is not configured, is detected in the area.

NOTE: The following instructions apply if you use the Windows operating system to manage your
network devices. For information about other wireless configuration utilities, see your wireless network
documentation.
1 Click either the pop-up or the network icon to configure your computer for one of the
available wireless networks.
The Wireless Network Connections window lists the wireless networks available in your area.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

2 Click to select the network you want to configure, and then click Connect or double-click the
network name in the list. If you select a secure network (identified by a icon), you must
enter a password when prompted.
NOTE: Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information.
NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to a network.
After your computer is configured for the wireless network you selected, another pop-up
notifies you that your computer is connected to the network you selected.

Thereafter, whenever you log on to your computer in the area of the wireless network, the
same pop-up notifies you of the wireless network connection.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

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11
Solving Problems
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software
Problems" on page 88 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical
assistance.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with your computer.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also
known as the ResourceCD).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
1 Shut down the computer.
2 Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3 Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:
a

Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately.
Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press .
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see
the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

Press and hold the key while powering the system on.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell
Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities CD.

Solving Problems

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The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment, a series of initial tests of your system
board, keyboard, hard drive, and display.
•

During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.

•

If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart
the computer, press ; to continue to the next test, press ; to retest the
component that failed, press .

•

If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error
code(s) and contact Dell.

If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you receive the message Booting
Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue.
4 Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your
hard drive.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may be optional and may not ship with your computer.
1 Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.
2 Shut down and restart the computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press immediately.
If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the
Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer
boots according to the devices specified in the system setup program.
3 When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive and press .
4 Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears and press .
5 Type 1 to start the ResourceCD menu and press to proceed.
6 Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed,
select the version appropriate for your computer.
7 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run.

Solving Problems

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Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

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

Function

Express Test

Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes
10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your
part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of
tracing the problem quickly.

Extended Test

Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically
takes 1 hour or more and requires you to answer
questions periodically.

Custom Test

Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you
want to run.

Symptom Tree

Lists the most common symptoms encountered and
allows you to select a test based on the symptom of the
problem you are having.

2 If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a
description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow
the instructions on the screen.
If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell.
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell,
technical support will ask for your Service Tag.
3 If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab
described in the following table for more information.
Tab

Function

Results

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

Errors

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

Help

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

Solving Problems

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book.book Page 80 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Tab

Function

Configuration

Displays your hardware configuration for the selected
device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information
for all devices from the system setup program, memory,
and various internal tests, and it displays the information
in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The
device list may not display the names of all the
components installed on your computer or all devices
attached to your computer.

Parameters

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

4 When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and
Utilities CD, remove the CD.
5 When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the Main Menu screen. To exit
the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the Main Menu screen.

Drive Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
E N S U R E T H A T M I C R O S O F T ® W I N D O W S ® R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E — Click the Start button and

click My Computer. If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your
antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows
from recognizing the drive.
TE S T T H E D R I V E —

•

Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is
defective.

•

Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.

C L E A N T H E D R I V E O R D I S K — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 141.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E CD I S S N A P P E D O N T O T H E S P I N D L E
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
C H E C K F O R H A R D W A R E I N C O M P A T I B I L I T I E S — (See "Resolving Software and Hardware

Incompatibilities" on page 99.

R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 77.

Solving Problems

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CD and DVD drive problems
NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a
defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all
DVD drives.
Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive
C L O S E O T H E R P R O G R A M S — The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when

writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the
CD/DVD-RW.

TU R N O F F S T A N D B Y M O D E I N W I N D O W S B E F O R E W R I T I N G T O A CD/DVD-R W D I S C — See "Power

Management Modes" on page 41 for information on standby mode.

C H A N G E T H E W R I T E S P E E D T O A S L O W E R R A T E — See the help files for your CD or DVD creation

software.

If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray
1 Ensure that the computer is shut down.
2 Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive; push
firmly until the tray is partially ejected.
3 Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound
•

Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.

•

Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.

Hard drive problems
A L L O W T H E C O M P U T E R T O C O O L B E F O R E T U R N I N G I T O N — A hot hard drive may prevent the
operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before
turning it on.
RUN CHECK DISK —

1 Click the Start button and click My Computer.
2 Right-click Local Disk C:.
3 Click Properties.
4 Click the Tools tab.
5 Under Error-checking, click Check Now.
6 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors.
7 Click Start.
Solving Problems

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E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not operate while it is
connected to a digital telephone network.
C H E C K T H E M I C R O S O F T O U T L O O K ® E X P R E S S S E C U R I T Y S E T T I N G S — If you cannot open your e-

mail attachments:

1 In Outlook Express, click Tools, click Options, and then click Security.
2 Click Do not allow attachments to remove the checkmark.
CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION
CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK
CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK
USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —

•

Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem. (The jack has either a
green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.)

•

Ensure that you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.

•

Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a
dial tone.

•

If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax
machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and connect the modem directly
to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a
shorter one.

R U N T H E M O D E M H E L P E R D I A G N O S T I C S — Click the Start button, point to All Programs and then

click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem
problems. (Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)

VE R I F Y T H A T T H E M O D E M I S C O M M U N I C A T I N G W I T H W I N D O W S —

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Printers and Other Hardware.
3 Click Phone and Modem Options.
4 Click the Modems tab.
5 Click the COM port for your modem.
6 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the
modem is communicating with Windows.
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.

Solving Problems

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E N S U R E T H A T Y O U A R E C O N N E C T E D T O T H E I N T E R N E T — Ensure that you have subscribed to an

Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a
checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help,
contact your Internet service provider.

S C A N T H E C O M P U T E R F O R S P Y W A R E — If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you
frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet,
your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes antispyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove
spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.

Error Messages
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that
was running when the message appeared.
A U X I L I A R Y D E V I C E F A I L U R E — The touch pad, track stick, or external mouse may be faulty. For an
external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system
setup program. If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
B A D C O M M A N D O R F I L E N A M E — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces

in the proper place, and used the correct pathname.

C A C H E D I S A B L E D D U E T O F A I L U R E — The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed.
Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
CD D R I V E C O N T R O L L E R F A I L U R E — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the

computer. See "Drive Problems" on page 80.

D A T A E R R O R — The hard drive cannot read the data. See "Drive Problems" on page 80.
D E C R E A S I N G A V A I L A B L E M E M O R Y — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly
seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Memory" on
page 112.
D I S K C: F A I L E D I N I T I A L I Z A T I O N — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in
the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 77.
D R I V E N O T R E A D Y — The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it can continue.
Install a hard drive in the hard drive bay. See "Hard Drive" on page 108.
E R R O R R E A D I N G PCMCIA C A R D — The computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert the

card or try another card. See "Using ExpressCards" on page 67.

E X T E N D E D M E M O R Y S I Z E H A S C H A N G E D — The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not

match the memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again,
contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.

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T H E F I L E B E I N G C O P I E D I S T O O L A R G E F O R T H E D E S T I N A T I O N D R I V E — The file that you are trying to

copy is too large to fit on the disk, or the disk is too full. Try copying the file to a different disk or
use a larger capacity disk.

A F I L E N A M E C A N N O T C O N T A I N A N Y O F T H E F O L L O W I N G C H A R A C T E R S : \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use

these characters in filenames.

G A T E A2 0 F A I L U R E — A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if
necessary, replace them. See "Memory" on page 112.
G E N E R A L F A I L U R E — The operating system is unable to carry out the command. The message is
usually followed by specific information—for example, Printer out of paper. Take the
appropriate action.
H A R D - D I S K D R I V E C O N F I G U R A T I O N E R R O R — The computer cannot identify the drive type. Shut
down the computer, remove the hard drive (see page 108), and boot the computer from a CD.
Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the HardDisk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
H A R D - D I S K D R I V E C O N T R O L L E R F A I L U R E 0 — The hard drive does not respond to commands from
the computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see page 108), and boot the
computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the
computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell
Diagnostics (see page 77).
H A R D - D I S K D R I V E F A I L U R E — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer.

Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see page 108), and boot the computer from a
CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the
problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see
page 77).

H A R D - D I S K D R I V E R E A D F A I L U R E — The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer,
remove the hard drive (see page 108), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the
computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another
drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
I N S E R T B O O T A B L E M E D I A — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable CD. Insert

a bootable CD.

I N V A L I D C O N F I G U R A T I O N I N F O R M A T I O N - P L E A S E R U N S YS T E M S E T U P P R O G R A M — The system
configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is most
likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate options in the system
setup program (see "Using the System Setup Program" on page 137).
K E Y B O A R D C L O C K L I N E F A I L U R E — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the

Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).

K E Y B O A R D C O N T R O L L E R F A I L U R E — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Restart
the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. Run the
Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).

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K E Y B O A R D D A T A L I N E F A I L U R E — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the

Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostic (see page 77)s.

K E Y B O A R D S T U C K K E Y F A I L U R E — For external keyboards or keypads, check the cable connection.
Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the
Stuck Key test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
L I C E N S E D C O N T E N T I S N O T A C C E S S I B L E I N M E D I A D I R E C T — Dell MediaDirect cannot verify the

Digital Rights Management (DRM) restrictions on the file, so the file cannot be played. See
"Dell MediaDirect problems" on page 89.

M E M O R Y A D D R E S S L I N E F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory module
may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them (see page 112).
M E M O R Y A L L O C A T I O N E R R O R — The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the

operating system, another program, or a utility. Shut down the computer, wait 30 seconds, and
then restart it. Try to run the program again. If the error message still appears, see the software
documentation.

M E M O R Y D A T A L I N E F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory module
may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them (see page 112).
M E M O R Y D O U B L E W O R D L O G I C F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory

module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,
replace them (see page 112).

M E M O R Y O D D / E V E N L O G I C F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory
module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,
replace them (see page 112).
M E M O R Y W R I T E / R E A D F A I L U R E A T A D D R E S S , R E A D V A L U E E X P E C T I N G V A L U E — A memory module

may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them (see page 112).

N O B O O T D E V I C E A V A I L A B L E — The computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard drive is your
boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.
N O B O O T S E C T O R O N H A R D D R I V E — The operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell. See

"Contacting Dell" on page 145.

N O T I M E R T I C K I N T E R R U P T — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the

System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).

N O T E N O U G H M E M O R Y O R R E S O U R C E S . E X I T S O M E P R O G R A M S A N D T R Y A G A I N — You have too

many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use.

O P E R A T I N G S YS T E M N O T F O U N D — Reinstall the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 108). If the

problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.

O P T I O N A L ROM B A D C H E C K S U M — The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell. See

"Contacting Dell" on page 145.

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A R E Q U I R E D .DLL F I L E W A S N O T F O U N D — The program that you are trying to open is missing an

essential file. Remove and then reinstall the program.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Add or Remove Programs.
3 Select the program you want to remove.

4 Click Remove or Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen.
5 See the program documentation for installation instructions.
S E C T O R N O T F O U N D — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may

have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking
utility to check the file structure on the hard drive. See the Windows Help and Support Center
for instructions. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support
Center" on page 13. If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and
then reformat the hard drive.

S E E K E R R O R — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard drive.
S H U T D O W N F A I L U R E — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
T I M E - O F - D A Y C L O C K L O S T P O W E R — System configuration settings are corrupted. Connect your

computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to restore the data
by entering the system setup program. Then immediately exit the program. See "Using the System
Setup Program" on page 137. If the message reappears, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on
page 145.

T I M E - O F - D A Y C L O C K S T O P P E D — The reserve battery that supports the system configuration
settings may require recharging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the
battery. If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
T I M E - O F - D A Y N O T S E T - P L E A S E R U N T H E S YS T E M S E T U P P R O G R A M — The time or date stored in
the system setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date
and Time options. See "Using the System Setup Program" on page 137.
T I M E R C H I P C O U N T E R 2 F A I L E D — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the
System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
U N E X P E C T E D I N T E R R U P T I N P R O T E C T E D M O D E — The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning,
or a memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller
test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).
X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE.

T H E D E V I C E I S N O T R E A D Y — Insert a disk into the drive and try again.

W A R N I N G : B A T T E R Y I S C R I T I C A L L Y L O W — The battery is running out of charge. Replace the

battery, or connect the computer to an electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate hibernate mode or
shut down the computer.

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IEEE 1394 Device Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E I EEE 13 94 D E V I C E I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S —

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Printers and Other Hardware.
If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.
I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A D E L L - P R O V I D E D IEEE 1394 D E V I C E — Contact Dell or the

IEEE 1394 device manufacturer. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.

I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A N IEEE 1394 D E V I C E N O T P R O V I D E D B Y D E L L — Contact Dell or the

IEEE 1394 device manufacturer. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.

E N S U R E T H A T T H E I EEE 13 94 D E V I C E I S P R O P E R L Y I N S E R T E D I N T O T H E C O N N E C T O R

Keyboard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program.
When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

External Keyboard problems
NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
C H E C K T H E K E Y B O A R D C A B L E — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and

check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to
the computer.
CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —

1 Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.
2 Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot
routine.
3 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs→ Accessories, and
then click Notepad.
4 Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.

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TO V E R I F Y T H A T T H E P R O B L E M I S W I T H T H E E X T E R N A L K E Y B O A R D , C H E C K T H E I N T E G R A T E D
KEYBOARD —

1 Shut down the computer.
2 Disconnect the external keyboard.
3 Turn on the computer.
4 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs→ Accessories, and
click Notepad.
5 Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective
external keyboard. Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.
R U N T H E K E Y B O A R D D I A G N O S T I C S T E S T S — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the

Dell Diagnostics (see page 77). If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell. See
"Contacting Dell" on page 145.

Unexpected characters
D I S A B L E T H E N U M E R I C K E Y P A D — Press to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are

displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

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

The computer does not start up
E N S U R E T H A T T H E AC A D A P T E R I S F I R M L Y C O N N E C T E D T O T H E C O M P U T E R A N D T O T H E E L E C T R I C A L
OUTLET

The computer stops responding
NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your
keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds
until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly
END THE PROGRAM —

1 Press simultaneously.
2 Click the Applications tab and select the program that is no longer responding.
3 Click End Task.
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NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the

screen.

C H E C K T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk
or CD.

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system
R U N T H E P R O G R A M C O M P A T I B I L I T Y W I Z A R D — The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a

program so it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories, and then click Program
Compatibility Wizard.
2 In the welcome screen, click Next.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen.

A solid blue screen appears
TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard

or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the
computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

Dell MediaDirect problems
C H E C K T H E D E L L M E D I A D I R E C T H E L P F I L E F O R I N F O R M A T I O N — Click the ? icon at the bottom of

the Dell MediaDirect screen to access Help.

TO P L A Y M O V I E S W I T H D E L L M E D I A D I R E C T , Y O U M U S T H A V E A DV D D R I V E A N D T H E D E L L D V D
P L A Y E R — If you purchased a DVD drive with your computer, this software should already be

installed.

V I D E O Q U A L I T Y P R O B L E M S — Turn off the Use Hardware Acceleration option. This feature takes
advantage of the special processing in some graphics cards to reduce processor requirements
when playing DVDs and certain types of video files.
C A N N O T P L A Y S O M E M E D I A F I L E S — Because Dell MediaDirect provides access to media files
outside the Windows XP environment, access to licensed content is restricted. Licensed content
is digital content that has Digital Rights Management (DRM) applied to it. The Dell
MediaDirect environment cannot verify the DRM restrictions, so the licensed files cannot be
played. Licensed music and video files have a lock icon next to them. You can access licensed
files in the Windows XP environment.
ADJUSTING THE COLOR SETTINGS FOR MOVIES THAT CONTAIN SCENES THAT ARE TOO DARK OR TOO
B R I G H T — Click EagleVision to use a video enhancement technology that detects video content

and dynamically adjusts the brightness/contrast/saturation ratios.

NOTICE: You cannot reinstall the Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive.
Contact Dell for assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.

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Other software problems
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR
TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION —

•

Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.

•

Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the
software. See the software documentation for information.

•

Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.

•

Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.

•

If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY
U S E A V I R U S - S C A N N I N G P R O G R A M T O C H E C K T H E H A R D D R I V E , F L O P P Y D I S K S , O R CD S
SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER THROUGH THE
Start M E N U
S C A N T H E C O M P U T E R F O R S P Y W A R E — If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you
frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the
Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that
includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer
and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword
spyware.
R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S — If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a
software problem. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 77.

Memory Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —

•

Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that
resolves the problem.

•

See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install
additional memory (see "Memory" on page 112).

•

Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating
with the memory (see "Memory" on page 112).

•

Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

•

Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating
with the memory (see "Memory" on page 112).

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•

Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Memory" on page 112).

•

Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 77).

Network Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K C A B L E C O N N E C T O R — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into

both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.

C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K L I G H T S O N T H E N E T W O R K C O N N E C T O R — No light indicates that no network

communication exists. Replace the network cable.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN
C H E C K Y O U R N E T W O R K S E T T I N G S — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up

your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.

ExpressCard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
C H E C K T H E E X P R E S S C A R D — Ensure that the ExpressCard is properly inserted into the connector.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E C A R D I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S — Double-click the Safely Remove
Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.
I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A D E L L - P R O V I D E D E X P R E S S C A R D — Contact Dell. See "Contacting

Dell" on page 145.

I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A N E X P R E S S C A R D N O T P R O V I D E D B Y D E L L — Contact the

ExpressCard manufacturer.

Power Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
C H E C K T H E P O W E R L I G H T — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the
power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit standby
mode. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer.

NOTE: For information on standby mode, see "Power Management Modes" on page 41.
C H A R G E T H E B A T T E R Y — The battery charge may be depleted.

1 Reinstall the battery.
2 Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3 Turn on the computer.
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NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending
on how often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a
new battery during the life of your computer.
C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y S T A T U S L I G H T — If the battery status light flashes orange or is a steady

orange the battery charge is low or depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
If the battery status light flashes green and orange, the battery is too hot to charge. Shut down
the computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and
computer cool to room temperature.

If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. Contact Dell. See
"Contacting Dell" on page 145.
C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y T E M P E R A T U R E — If the battery temperature is below 0°C (32°F), the

computer will not start up.

TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with

another device, such as a lamp.

C H E C K T H E AC A D A P T E R — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a
light, ensure that the light is on.
C O N N E C T T H E C O M P U T E R D I R E C T L Y T O A N E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Bypass power protection devices,

power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or

other appliances.

A D J U S T T H E P O W E R P R O P E R T I E S — See "Power Management Modes" on page 41.
R E S E A T T H E M E M O R Y M O D U L E S — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains
blank, reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 112).

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer
Your computer is designed to use the 90-W AC adapter; for optimum system performance, you
should always use this adapter.
The 65-W AC adapters used in other Dell™ portable computers can be used with your computer,
but they will decrease system performance. Using less-powerful AC adapters, including the 65-W
AC adapter, will cause you to receive a WARNING message.

Printer Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s manufacturer.

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ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON
CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —

•

See the printer documentation for cable connection information.

•

Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer.

TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with

another device, such as a lamp.

VE R I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S —

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click View installed printers or fax printers.
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.
3 Click Properties and click the Ports tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that the Print to the
following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). For a USB printer, ensure that the Print to
the following port(s): setting is USB.
R E I N S T A L L T H E P R I N T E R D R I V E R — See the printer documentation for instructions

Scanner Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer.
C H E C K T H E P R I N T E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N — See the printer documentation for setup and

troubleshooting information.

C H E C K T H E S C A N N E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N — See the scanner documentation for setup and

troubleshooting information.

U N L O C K T H E S C A N N E R — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —

•

See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.

•

Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.

VE R I F Y T H A T T H E S C A N N E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y M I C R O S O F T W I N D O W S —

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click Scanners and Cameras.
If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.
R E I N S T A L L T H E S C A N N E R D R I V E R — See the scanner documentation for instructions.

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

No sound from integrated speakers
A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right

corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Adjust
the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.

A D J U S T T H E V O L U M E U S I N G K E Y B O A R D S H O R T C U T S — Press to disable (mute) or

reenable the integrated speakers.

R E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D ( A U D I O ) D R I V E R — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 97.

No sound from external speakers
E N S U R E T H A T T H E S U B W O O F E R A N D T H E S P E A K E R S A R E T U R N E D O N — See the setup diagram

supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble
to eliminate distortion.

A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-

right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

D I S C O N N E C T H E A D P H O N E S F R O M T H E H E A D P H O N E C O N N E C T O R — Sound from the speakers is

automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone
connector.

TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with

another device, such as a lamp.

E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to

check for interference.

R E I N S T A L L T H E A U D I O D R I V E R — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 97.
R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S (see page 77)

NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been
listening to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.

No sound from headphones
C H E C K T H E H E A D P H O N E C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely
inserted into the headphone connector (see "audio connectors" on page 20).
A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-

right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

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Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click Mouse.
3 Try adjusting the settings.
C H E C K T H E M O U S E C A B L E — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for

damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse directly to the
computer.
TO V E R I F Y T H A T T H E P R O B L E M I S W I T H T H E M O U S E , C H E C K T H E T O U C H P A D —

1 Shut down the computer.
2 Disconnect the mouse.
3 Turn on the computer.
4 At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and
open it.
If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.
R E I N S T A L L T H E T O U C H P A D D R I V E R — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 97.

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

If the display is blank
NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer supports, it is
recommended that you attach an external monitor to your computer.
C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y — If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may

be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the
computer.

TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with

another device, such as a lamp.

C H E C K T H E AC A D A P T E R — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light,

ensure that the light is on.

C O N N E C T T H E C O M P U T E R D I R E C T L Y T O A N E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Bypass power protection devices,

power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

A D J U S T T H E P O W E R P R O P E R T I E S — Search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and

Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see page 13.

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S W I T C H T H E V I D E O I M A G E — If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press

to switch the video image to the display.

If the display is difficult to read
A D J U S T T H E B R I G H T N E S S — Press and the up- or down-arrow key
M O V E T H E E X T E R N A L S U B W O O F E R A W A Y F R O M T H E C O M P U T E R O R M O N I T O R — If your external

speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from
the computer or external monitor.

E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or

other appliances.

R O T A T E T H E C O M P U T E R T O F A C E A D I F F E R E N T D I R E C T I O N — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can

cause poor picture quality.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

1 Click the Start button and then click Control Panel.
2 Click Appearance and Themes.
3 Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.
4 Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.
S E E "E R R O R M E S S A G E S " — If an error message appears, see page 83.

If only part of the display is readable
CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —

1 Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.
2 Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness and contrast
controls.
If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact
Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 145.

Drivers
What Is a Driver?
A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices
require a driver program.
A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device.
Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes.
Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation
or configuration is needed.

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NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your
computer. Ensure that you are installing software appropriate for your operating system.
Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft® Windows® operating
system. You may need to install drivers if you:
•

Upgrade your operating system.

•

Reinstall your operating system.

•

Connect or install a new device.

Identifying Drivers
If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your
problem and, if necessary, update the driver.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.
5 Click Device Manager.
6 Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on
the device icon.
If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or
install a new driver. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 97.

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

If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP
Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.
5 Click Device Manager.
6 Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties.

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7 Click the Drivers tab.
8 Click Roll Back Driver.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your
computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.
Using the Drivers and Utilities CD

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with your computer.
If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore does not resolve the problem, then reinstall
the driver from the Drivers and Utilities CD.
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2 Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.
In most cases, the CD starts running automatically. If it does not, start Windows Explorer,
click your CD drive directory to display the CD contents, and then double-click the
autorcd.exe file. The first time that you run the CD, it might prompt you to install setup files.
Click OK, and follow the instructions on the screen to continue.
3 From the Language drop-down menu in the toolbar, select your preferred language for the
driver or utility (if available). A welcome screen appears.
4 Click Next.
The CD automatically scans your hardware to detect drivers and utilities used by your
computer.
5 After the CD completes the hardware scan, you can also detect other drivers and utilities.
Under Search Criteria, select the appropriate categories from the System Model, Operating
System, and Topic drop-down menus.
A link or links appear(s) for the specific drivers and utilities used by your computer.
6 Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or utility
that you want to install.
7 Click the Install button (if present) to begin installing the driver or utility. At the welcome
screen, follow the screen prompts to complete the installation.
If no Install button is present, automatic installation is not an option. For installation
instructions, either see the appropriate instructions in the following subsections, or click
Extract, follow the extracting instructions, and then read the readme file.
If instructed to navigate to the driver files, click the CD directory on the driver information
window to display the files associated with that driver.

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Manually Reinstalling Drivers

NOTE: If you are reinstalling an infrared sensor driver, you must first enable the infrared sensor in the
system setup program before continuing with the driver installation. See "Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 97.

1 After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous section, click
the Start button and right-click My Computer.
2 Click Properties.
3 Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
4 Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example, Modems
or Infrared devices).
5 Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
6 Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.
7 Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click Next.
8 Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files.
9 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.
10 Click Finish and restart your computer.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly
configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Type hardware troubleshooter in the Search field and click the arrow to start the
search.
3 Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.
4 In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my
computer, and click Next.

Restoring Your Operating System
You can restore your operating system in the following ways:
•

Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state
without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your
operating system and preserving data files.

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•

Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when
you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive
and removes any applications installed after you received the computer. Use PC Restore only
if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

•

If you received an Operating System CD with your computer, you can use it to restore your
operating system. However, using the Operating System CD also deletes all data on the hard
drive. Use the CD only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore
The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return
your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the
hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating
state. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To
access help, see page page 13.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or
recover them.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not
apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.
Creating a Restore Point

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Click the task for System Restore.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 97) to
resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files
and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system
restoration is complete.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools, and then click
System Restore.
2 Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected and click Next.
3 Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
The Select a Restore Point screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore
points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.

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4 Select a restore point and click Next.
If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected.
If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.
5 Click Next.
The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and
then the computer restarts.
6 After the computer restarts, click OK.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or
you can undo the restoration.
Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open
programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools, and then click
System Restore.
2 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
Enabling System Restore

If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System
Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 Click the System Restore tab.
5 Ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec
NOTICE: Using Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any
applications or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before
using PC Restore. Use PC Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
NOTE: Dell PC Restore by Symantec may not be available in certain countries nor on certain computers.
Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system.
PC Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the
computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer—including data
files—are permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets,
e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data before using
PC Restore.
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To use PC Restore:
1 Turn on the computer.
During the boot process, a blue bar with www.dell.com appears at the top of the screen.
2 Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press .
If you do not press in time, let the computer finish starting, and then restart
the computer again.
NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the following step.
3 On the next screen that appears, click Restore.
4 On the next screen, click Confirm.
The restore process takes approximately 6–10 minutes to complete.
5 When prompted, click Finish to reboot the computer.
NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely
reboot.

6 When prompted, click Yes.
The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the
screens that appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that
appeared the first time the computer was turned on.
7 Click Next.
The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts.
8 After the computer restarts, click OK.
Removing Dell PC Restore

NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from
your computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your
computer’s operating system.
Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you
purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your
computer, even to gain additional hard-drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard
drive, you cannot ever recall it, and you will never be able to use PC Restore to return your
computer’s operating system to its original state.
To remove PC Restore:
1 Log on to the computer as a local administrator.
2 In Windows Explorer, go to c:\dell\utilities\DSR.

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3 Double-click the filename DSRIRRemv2.exe.
NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator, a message appears stating that you must log on
as administrator. Click Quit, and then log on as a local administrator.

NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer’s hard drive, a message
appears stating that the partition was not found. Click Quit; there is no partition to delete.

4 Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.
5 Click Yes when a confirmation message appears.
The PC Restore partition is deleted and the newly available disk space is added to the free
space allocation on the hard drive.
6 Right-click Local Disk (C) in Windows Explorer, click Properties, and verify that the
additional disk space is available as indicated by the increased value for Free Space.
7 Click Finish to close the PC Restore Removal window.
8 Restart the computer.

Using the Operating System CD
Before You Begin

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a
newly installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback (see page 97). If
Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your
operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver. See
"Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 100.
To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:
•

Dell™ Operating System CD

•

Dell Drivers and Utilities CD
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer.
Use the Drivers and Utilities CD to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from where you
ordered your computer, or whether you requested the CDs, the ResourceCD and Operating System CD
may not ship with your system.

Reinstalling Windows XP

To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which
they are listed.
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating
system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can
overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall
Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.
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NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your
computer before you reinstall Windows XP. See the documentation that came with the software for
instructions.
1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2 Insert the Operating System CD. Click Exit if the Install Windows XP message appears.
3 Restart the computer.
4 Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut
down the computer and try again.
5 Press the arrow keys to select CD-ROM, and press .
6 When the Press any key to boot from CD message appears, press any key.
7 When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press .
8 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the reinstallation.
9 When the operating system reinstallation completes, reinstall drivers and applications as
necessary.

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12
Adding and Replacing Parts
Before You Begin
This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer.
Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:
•

You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" (see this page) and "Before
Working Inside Your Computer" (see page 106).

•

You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide.

•

A component can be replaced—or if purchased separately—installed by performing the
removal procedure in reverse order.

Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
•

Small flat-blade screwdriver

•

Phillips screwdriver

•

Small plastic scribe

•

Flash BIOS update (see the Dell Support website at support.dell.com)

Turning Off Your Computer
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn
off your computer.

1 Shut down the operating system:
a

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then
click Turn Off Computer.

In the Turn off computer window, click Turn off.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.

2 Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and
attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system,
press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

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Before Working Inside Your Computer
Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to
help ensure your own personal safety.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a
card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor
by its edges, not by its pins.
NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to
servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.
NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable
itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press
in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly
aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both
connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside
the computer.

1 Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being
scratched.
2 Turn off your computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 105.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it
from the network wall jack.
3 Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you service the

computer.

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4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
5 Remove the battery.
Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then pull the
battery out of the battery bay.

battery

battery-bay latch release

6 Remove the optical drive, if installed, from the optical drive bay. See "Optical Drives" on
page 111.
7 Press the power button to ground the system board.
8 Remove any installed ExpressCards from the ExpressCard slot. See "Removing an
ExpressCard or Blank" on page 68.
9 Remove any installed media memory cards from the 5-in-1 media memory card reader. See
"Removing a Media Memory Card or Blank" on page 72.
10 Close the display and turn the computer upside down on a flat work surface.
11 Remove the hard drive. See "Hard Drive" on page 108.

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Battery
Removing a Battery
CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, disconnect the modem from the telephone wall jack.
NOTICE: If you choose to replace the battery with the computer in standby mode, you have up to
1 minute to complete the battery replacement before the computer shuts down and loses any unsaved
data.
1 Ensure that the computer is turned off or suspended in a power management mode.
2 Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove
the battery from the bay by pulling it straight out from the computer.
NOTE: The 6-cell battery is flush with the back of the computer. The 9-cell battery extends beyond the
back of the computer.

Installing a Battery
CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the
battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your
Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.
Slide the battery into the bay until the latch release clicks.

Hard Drive
CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot, do not touch the metal
housing of the hard drive.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see page 105) before removing the hard drive. Do
not remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate mode.
NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile; even a slight bump can damage the drive.
NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other
than Dell.
NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to install an operating
system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive.
To replace the hard drive in the hard drive bay:
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Turn the computer over, and loosen the two captive screws in the hard drive cover.

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screws (2)

NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. See
"Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide.
3 Lift the cover off the computer and set it aside.
4 Use the pull-tab to slide the hard drive toward the screw holes, and then lift the hard drive
straight up to remove it from the computer.

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pull-tab

hard drive

5 Remove the new drive from its packaging.
Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.
NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may
damage the connector.
6 Seat the new hard drive into the bay, and then slide it into the connector by sliding it away
from the screw holes until it is fully seated.
7 Replace the cover and tighten the screws.
8 Install the operating system for your computer. See "Restoring Your Operating System" on
page 99.
9 Install the drivers and utilities for your computer. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on
page 97.

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Returning a Hard Drive to Dell
Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original or comparable foam packaging. Otherwise, the
hard drive may be damaged in transit.

2
1

foam packaging

hard drive

Optical Drives
About the Device Security Screw
NOTE: You do not need to install the device security screw unless you want to prevent the module from
being easily removed.
Your Dell™ computer ships with an optical drive installed in the module bay and a device security
screw, which may not be installed in the optical drive but packaged separately. When you install a
module in the bay, you can install the device security screw to prevent the module from being easily
removed.

Removing and Installing Optical Drives
NOTICE: To prevent damage to drives, store them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in the
computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.
1 While the computer is turned on, double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the
taskbar, click the device that you want to eject, and click Stop.
2 Close your display and turn the computer upside-down.
3 Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the device security screw from the bottom of the
computer.

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4 Insert a Phillips screwdriver into the screw hole to push the drive out of the module bay.

5 Pull the drive straight out of the module bay.
6 Push the new drive straight into the module bay until it clicks.
7 Replace the security device screw.
8 Turn the computer right-side up and open the display.
9 The operating system automatically recognizes the drive. If necessary, enter your password to
unlock your computer.

Memory
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See
"Specifications" on page 131 for information on the memory supported by your computer. Install
only memory modules that are intended for your computer.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
The computer has two memory module connectors labeled "DIMM A" and "DIMM B." Connector
DIMM A (located under the keyboard) holds the basic memory module as configured from the
factory. If you did not order additional memory, connector DIMM B (located on the bottom of the
computer under the memory module cover) will be empty. Generally, if you are adding memory,

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you will install a memory module in connector DIMM B. If you are upgrading memory, you may
need to install memory in both the DIMM A and B connectors, depending on the extent of the
upgrade.

Installing a Memory Module in Connector DIMM B
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.
3 Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the memory module cover, and then
remove the memory module cover.
2
1

screws (2)

memory module cover

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NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memorymodule securing clips.
4 If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:
a

Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory
module connector until the module pops up.

Remove the module from the connector.

memory module

securing clips
(2 per connector)

NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the
connector labeled “DIMM A” before you install a module in the connector labeled “DIMM B.” Insert
memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error
message indicates this failure.
5 Ground yourself and install the new memory module:

114

Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.

Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down
until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.

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tab in connector slot

6 Replace the memory module cover and tighten the screws.
NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close
may damage your computer.
7 Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an
electrical outlet.
8 Reinstall the hard drive. See "Hard Drive" on page 108.
9 Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system
configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click the Start button, click Help and
Support, and then click Computer Information.

Installing a Memory Module in Connector DIMM A
The memory module connector labeled "DIMM A" is located under the keyboard.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.

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3 Remove the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 123.
NOTE: Ensure that you remove the two screws in the battery bay as part of the hinge removal
procedure.
4 Remove the keyboard. See "Keyboard" on page 125.
5 Loosen the captive screws on the memory module cover, and then remove the memory
module cover.
1

tab in connector slot

NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memorymodule securing clips.
6 If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:

116

Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory
module connector until the module pops up.

Remove the module from the connector.

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memory module

securing clips
(2 per connector)

NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the
connector labeled “DIMM A” before you install a module in the connector labeled “DIMM B.” Insert
memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error
message indicates this failure.
7 Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
a

Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.

Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down
until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.

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tab in connector slot

8 Replace the memory module cover and tighten the screws.
NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close
may damage your computer.
9 Replace the keyboard. See "Keyboard" on page 125.
10 Replace the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 123.
NOTE: Ensure that you replace the two screws inside the battery bay as part of the hinge
replacement procedure.

11 Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an
electrical outlet.
12 Reinstall the hard drive. See "Hard Drive" on page 108.
13 Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system
configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click the Start button, click Help and
Support, and then click Computer Information.

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Modem (Optional)
If you ordered the optional modem at the same time that you ordered your computer, the modem
is already installed.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the modem/Mini PCI/wireless cover,
and then remove the cover.
1

modem/Mini
PCI/wireless cover

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3 Remove the existing modem:
a

Remove the screw securing the modem to the system board, and set it aside.

Pull straight up on the attached pull-tab to lift the modem out of its connector on the
system board, and disconnect the modem cable.
1

4
5
1

screw

modem

modem cable

pull-tab

system board connector

4 Install the replacement modem:
a

Connect the modem cable to the modem.

NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the
connectors and realign the card.
b

Align the modem with the screw holes and press the modem into the connector on the
system board.

Replace the screw that secures the modem to the system board.

5 Replace the modem/Mini PCI/wireless cover.

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Wireless Mini PCI Card
If you ordered a Mini PCI card with your computer, the card is already installed.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 If a Mini PCI card is not already installed, go to step . If you are replacing a Mini PCI card,
remove the existing card:
a

Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini PCI card.

antenna cables

Release the Mini PCI card by spreading the metal securing tabs until the card pops up
slightly.

Lift the Mini PCI card out of its connector.

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Mini PCI card

metal securing tabs (2)

NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the
connectors and realign the card.
3 Install the replacement Mini PCI card:
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the Mini PCI card, make sure the antenna cables are not under the card
when you click the card into place.

122

Align the Mini PCI card with the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the Mini PCI
card into the connector until it clicks.

Connect the antenna cables to the Mini PCI card. Make sure the cables snap onto the
tiny connectors on the Mini PCI card.

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antenna cables

Hinge Cover
Removing the Hinge Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

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NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin
working inside the computer.
NOTICE: The hinge cover is fragile and can be damaged if extreme force is used. Be careful when
removing the hinge cover.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Remove the battery (see page 108).
3 Remove the two screws inside the battery bay.
1

screws (2)

4 Turn the computer right-side up, and then open the display all the way (180 degrees) so that
it rests on your work surface.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the hinge cover, do not lift the cover on both sides simultaneously.
5 Insert a scribe into the indent to lift the hinge cover on the right side.

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2
1

hinge cover

indent

6 Ease the hinge cover up, moving from right to left, and remove it.

Replacing the Hinge Cover
1 Insert the left edge of the cover into place.
2 Press from left to right until the cover snaps into place.
3 Close the display and turn the computer upside down.
4 Replace the two screws in the battery bay.
5 Replace the battery (see page 108).

Keyboard
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin
working inside the computer.

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Removing the Keyboard
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Remove the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 123.
NOTICE: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace. Be
careful when removing and handling the keyboard.
3 Lift the keyboard and hold it up and slightly forward to allow access to the keyboard
connector.
4 Release the lever on the system board connector to disconnect the keyboard cable from the
system board.
1

2
5

126

keyboard

keyboard cable

side tabs (2)

lever on system board connector

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Replacing the Keyboard
NOTICE: To avoid scratching the palm rest when replacing the keyboard, hook the six tabs along the
front edge of the keyboard into the palm rest, and then secure the keyboard in place.
1 Connect the keyboard cable to the system board.
2 Place the six tabs along the front edge of the keyboard into the palm rest.
3 Fasten the keyboard cable with the lever on the system board connector.
4 Snap the keyboard into place under the two side tabs.

Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin
working inside the computer.
If you ordered a card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer, the card is already
installed.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Loosen the captive screws in the modem/Mini PCI/wireless cover, and then remove the cover.
3 Remove the screw securing the card carrier.
4 Pull the carrier out of the compartment so that you can disconnect the card from its cable and
remove the card from the computer.
5 To replace the card, connect the card to the cable.
6 Then carefully insert the card into the carrier and insert the carrier into the compartment.
7 Replace the screw securing the card carrier into place.

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screw

card

card carrier

card connector

Coin-Cell Battery
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery
CAUTION: Before you perform the following procedures, see the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as the back panel) on the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin
working inside the computer.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 105.
2 Remove the hinge cover (see page 123).
3 Remove the keyboard (see page 125).
4 Use a plastic scribe to lift the battery upward to remove it from the system board.

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coin-cell battery

Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery
When you replace the battery, insert it into the circular socket with the positive side up, and then
push it into place.

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13
Appendix
Specifications
Processor
Processor type

Intel® Pentium® M or Intel Celeron® M

L1 cache

32-KB I-cache
32-KB D-cache

L2 cache

2 MB

External bus frequency (front side
bus)

400 MHz and 533 MHz

System Information
System chip set

Mobile Intel 915 GM Express

Data bus width

64 bits

DRAM bus width

dual-channel (2) 64-bit buses

Processor address bus width

32 bits

Flash EPROM

1 MB

Graphics bus

internal

PCI bus

32 bits

ExpressCard
ExpressCard controller

Intel ICH6

ExpressCard connector

one ExpressCard slot (54 mm)

Cards supported

ExpressCard/34 (34 mm) and
ExpressCard/54 (54 mm)

ExpressCard connector size

28 pins

1.5 V and 3.3 V

Appendix

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5-in-1 Media Memory Card Reader
5-in-1 media memory card controller Ricoh R5C832
5-in-1 media memory card connector 5-in-1 combo card connector
Cards supported

MS
MS Pro
SD/SDIO
MMC
xD
CD Type I/II & IBM® Microdrive through
ExpressCard adapter

5-in-1 media memory card connector 36.8 x 29.3 x 4.75 mm
size
Memory
Memory module connector

two SODIMM connectors

Memory module capacities

256 MB, 512 MB, and 1 GB

Memory type

1.8-V SODIMM DDR-2

Minimum memory

256 MB

Maximum memory

2 GB

Ports and Connectors

132

Audio

microphone connector, stereo
headphone/speaker connector

IEEE 1394a

4-pin serial connector

Mini PCI

one Type IIIA Mini PCI card slot

Modem

RJ-11 port

Network adapter

RJ-45 port

S-video TV-out

7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-video
to composite video adapter cable)

USB

four 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors

Video

15-hole connector

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Communications
Modem:
Type

v.92 56K MDC

Controller

softmodem

Interface

internal HDA bus

Network adapter

10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board

Wireless

internal Mini PCI Wi-Fi and Bluetooth®
wireless technology support

Video
Video type:

integrated on system board

Video controller

Intel® Graphics Media
Accelerator (GMA) 900

Video memory

Up to 64 MB of shared memory

LCD interface

LVDS

TV support

NTSC/PAL

Audio
Audio type

High Definition Audio (HDA) bus

Audio controller

Sigmatel STAC9200

Stereo conversion

24-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-toanalog)

Interfaces:
Internal

HDA bus

External

microphone-in connector, stereo
headphones/speakers connector

Speaker

two 4-ohm speakers

Internal speaker amplifier

1-W channel into 4 ohms

Volume controls

keyboard shortcuts, program menus, media
control buttons

Appendix

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Display
Type (active-matrix TFT)

14.1-inch WXGA

Dimensions:
Height

206 mm (8.11 inches)

Width

320 mm (12.59 inches)

Diagonal

357.74 mm (14.1 inches)

Maximum resolutions:
WXGA

1280 x 800 at 262,144 colors

Refresh rate

60 Hz

Operating angle

0° (closed) to 180°

Viewing angles:
Horizontal

±40° (WXGA) typical

Vertical

+15°/–30° (WXGA)

Pixel pitch:
WXGA
Controls

0.237 mm
brightness can be controlled through
keyboard shortcuts

Keyboard
Number of keys

87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe);
91 (Japan)

Layout

QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji

Touch Pad
X/Y position resolution
(graphics table mode)

240 cpi

Size:

134

Width

73.0-mm (2.9-inch) sensor-active area

Height

42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle

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Battery
Type

9-cell "smart" lithium ion
6-cell "smart" lithium ion

Dimensions:
Depth

60.1 mm (2.37 inches) (9 cell)
49 mm (1.93 inches) (6 cell)

Height

24 mm (0.94 inch)

Width

206.8 mm (8.14 inches)

Weight

0.48 kg (1.06 lb) (9 cell)
0.32 kg (0.7 lb) (6 cell)

Voltage

11.1 VDC

Charge time (approximate):
Computer off
Operating time

2 hours
Battery operating time varies depending on
operating conditions and can be significantly
reduced under certain power-intensive
conditions. See "Power Problems" on
page 91.
See "Using a Battery" on page 45 for more
information on battery life.

Life span (approximate)

500 discharge/charge cycles

Temperature range:
Operating

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

Storage

–40° to 60°C (–40° to 140°F)

Coin-cell battery

CR-2032

AC Adapter
Input voltage

90–264 VAC

Input current (maximum)

1.5 A

Input frequency

47–63 Hz

Output current

4.34 A (maximum at 4-second pulse);
3.34 A (continuous)

Output power

65 W

Rated output voltage

19.5 +/–1.0 VDC

Appendix

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AC Adapter (continued)
Dimensions:
Height

28.2 mm (1.11 inches)

Width

57.9 mm (2.28 inches)

Depth

137.2 mm (5.4 inches)

Weight (with cables)

0.4 kg (0.9 lb)

Temperature range:
Operating

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

Storage

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

Physical
Height

38.6 mm (1.52 inches)

Width

330 mm (12.99 inches)

Depth

243 mm (9.56 inches)

Weight (with 6-cell battery,
CDRW/DVD combo, and 40G hard
drive):
Configurable to less than

2.5 kg (5.5 lb)

Environmental
Temperature range:
Operating

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

Storage

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

Relative humidity (maximum):
Operating

10% to 90% (noncondensing)

Storage

5% to 95% (noncondensing)

Maximum vibration (using a
random-vibration spectrum that
simulates user environment):
Operating

0.66 GRMS

Storage

1.3 GRMS

Maximum shock (measured with
hard drive in head-parked position
and a 2-ms half-sine pulse):
Operating

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Appendix

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Environmental (continued)
Storage

163 G

Altitude (maximum):
Operating

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

Storage

–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

Using the System Setup Program
Overview
NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in the system
setup program, thus overriding options that you set through the system setup program. (An exception is
the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through the system setup program.) For
more information on configuring features for your operating system, see the Windows Help and Support
Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see page 13.
The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer,
such as:
•

System configuration

•

Basic device-configuration settings

•

System security and hard-drive password settings

•

Power management settings

•

Boot (start-up) configuration and display settings

•

Docking-device settings

•

Wireless control settings
NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do
not change the system setup program settings. Certain changes might make your computer work
incorrectly.

Viewing the System Setup Screen
1 Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2 When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately. If you wait too long and the
Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down
your computer and try again.

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System Setup Screen
The system setup screen consists of three windows of information. The window on the left contains
an expandable hierarchy of control categories. If you select (highlight) a category (such as System,
Onboard Devices, or Video) and press , you can show or hide the related subcategories.
The window on the right contains information about the category or subcategory selected in the
window on the left.
The window at the bottom tells you how to control the system setup program with key functions.
Use these keys to select a category, modify its settings, or exit the system setup program.

Commonly Used Options
Certain options require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect.
Changing the Boot Sequence

The boot sequence, or boot order, tells the computer where to look to find the software needed to
start the operating system. You can control the boot sequence and enable/disable devices using the
Boot Order page of the system setup program.
NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a One-Time Boot" on
page 139.
The Boot Order page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your
computer, including but not limited to the following:
•

Diskette Drive

•

Internal HDD

•

USB Storage Device

•

CD/DVD/CD-RW drive

•

Modular bay HDD
NOTE: Only devices that are preceded by a number are bootable.

During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device
for the operating system start-up files. When the computer finds the files, it stops searching and
starts the operating system.
To control the boot devices, select (highlight) a device by pressing the down-arrow or up-arrow key,
and then enable or disable the device or change its order in the list.
•

To enable or disable a device, highlight the item and press the space bar. Enabled items are
preceded by a number; disabled items are not preceded by a number.

•

To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and press either to move the device
up the list or to move a device down the list.

Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit the system setup
program.
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Performing a One-Time Boot

You can set a one-time-only boot sequence without entering the system setup program. (You can
also use this procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partition on your
hard drive.)
1 Shut down the computer through the Start menu.
2 Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3 Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press immediately. If you wait
too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop.
Then shut down your computer and try again.
4 When the boot device list appears, highlight the device from which you want to boot and
press .
The computer boots to the selected device.
The next time you reboot the computer, the previous boot order is restored.

Computer Tracking Software
Computer tracking software may enable you to locate your computer if it is lost or stolen. The
software is either preinstalled on your computer, or you can purchase it from www.dell.com. To
use tracking software, activate the setting, if necessary, in the system setup program (BIOS). To
access the system setup program, start your computer and press immediately when the
blue DELL™ logo appears.

Traveling With Your Computer
Identifying Your Computer
•

Attach a name tag or business card to the computer.

•

Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying
case. Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and
to Dell.

•

Create a file on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop called if_found. Place information such
as your name, address, and phone number in this file.

•

Contact your credit card company and ask if it offers coded identification tags.

Packing the Computer
•

Remove any external devices attached to the computer and store them in a safe place.

•

To make the computer as light as possible, replace any devices installed in the module bay
with the Dell TravelLite™ module.

•

Fully charge the main battery and any spare batteries that you plan to carry with you.
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•

Shut down the computer.

•

Disconnect the AC adapter.
NOTICE: When the display is closed, extraneous items on the keyboard or palm rest could damage the
display.

•

Remove any extraneous items, such as paper clips, pens, and paper, from the keyboard and
palm rest and close the display.

•

Use the optional Dell™ carrying case to pack the computer and its accessories together safely.

•

Avoid packing the computer with items such as shaving cream, colognes, perfumes, or food.
NOTICE: If the computer has been exposed to extreme temperatures, allow it to acclimate to room
temperature for 1 hour before turning it on.

•

Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as extreme
temperatures and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids.

•

Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead
storage compartment.

Travel Tips
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive to prevent loss of data.
NOTICE: Do not check the computer as baggage.
•

Consider disabling wireless activity on your computer to maximize battery operating time. To
disable wireless activity, press.

•

Consider changing your power management options to maximize battery operating time. See
"Power Management" on page 39.

•

If you are the system setup program internationally, carry proof of ownership—or of your right
to use the computer if it is company-owned—to speed your passage through customs.
Investigate the customs regulations of the countries you plan to visit, and consider acquiring
an international carnet (also known as a merchandise passport) from your government.

•

Find out what type of electrical outlets are used in the countries you will visit, and have
appropriate power adapters.

•

Check with your credit card company for information about the kinds of emergency travel
assistance it offers to users of portable computers.

Traveling by Air
NOTICE: Do not walk the computer through a metal detector. Send the computer through an X-ray
machine or have it hand-inspected.

•

140

Ensure that you have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn on the
computer.

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•

Prior to entering the airplane, verify that using a computer is permitted. Some airlines forbid
the use of electronic devices during flight. All airlines forbid the use of electronic devices
during takeoff and landing.

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen
•

Call a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer. Include the Service Tag
in your description of the computer. Ask that a case number be assigned and write down the
number, along with the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. If
possible, obtain the name of the investigating officer.
NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area. If
you do not know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.

•

If the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of the company.

•

Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer. Provide the computer Service
Tag, the case number, and the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement
agency to which you reported the missing computer. If possible, give the name of the
investigating officer.

The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the computer Service Tag and
record the computer as missing or stolen. If someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives
your Service Tag, the computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen. The representative
will attempt to get the phone number and address of the caller. Dell will then contact the law
enforcement agency to which you reported of the missing computer.

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

Computer, Keyboard, and Display
CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and
remove any installed batteries. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use
liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.
•

Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from between the keys on the keyboard and to
remove any dirt or lint from the display.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer or display, do not spray cleaning solution directly onto the

display. Only use products specifically designed for cleaning displays, and follow the instructions that are
included with the product.

•

Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with either water or a display cleaner. Do not use alcohol or an
ammonia-based cleaner. Wipe the display gently working from the center to the edges until it
is clean and any fingerprints are removed. Do not use excessive pressure.

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•

Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water and wipe the computer and keyboard. Do not allow
water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.

Touch Pad
1 Shut down and turn off your computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 105.
2 Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets.
3 Remove any installed batteries. See "Battery" on page 108.
4 Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe it gently across the surface of the touch
pad. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding
palm rest.

Floppy Drive
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign the heads
which prevents the drive from operating.
Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain
pretreated floppies to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation.

CDs and DVDs
NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions
that come with the compressed-air product. Never touch the lens in the drive.

If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try
cleaning the discs.
1 Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.
2 With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a
straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disc.
For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also
purchase commercial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust,
fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are also safe to use on DVDs.

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Most Dell computers are classified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as Class B
digital devices. To determine which classification applies to your computer, examine all FCC
registration labels located on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, on card-mounting
brackets, and on the cards themselves. If any one of the labels carries a Class A rating, your entire
computer is considered to be a Class A digital device. If all labels carry an FCC Class B rating as
distinguished by either an FCC ID number or the FCC logo, ( ), your computer is considered to
be a Class B digital device.
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Once you have determined your computer’s FCC classification, read the appropriate FCC notice.
Note that FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell
could void your authority to operate this equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
•

This device may not cause harmful interference.

•

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

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

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

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•

Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

•

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.

•

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.

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

Model number: PP19L

•

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

Macrovision Product Notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and
other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized
by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise
authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)
Technician-assisted technical support requires the cooperation and participation of the customer
in the troubleshooting process and provides for restoration of the operating system, software
programs, and hardware drivers to the original default configuration as shipped from Dell, as well as
the verification of appropriate functionality of the computer and all Dell-installed hardware. In
addition to this technician-assisted technical support, online technical support is available at
support.dell.com. Additional technical support options may be available for purchase.
Dell provides limited technical support for the computer and any "Dell-installed" software and
peripherals1. Support for third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original
manufacturer, including those purchased and/or installed through Dell Software and Peripherals,
Readyware, and Custom Factory Integration2.
1

Repair services are provided pursuant to the terms and conditions of your limited warranty and any optional
support service contract purchased with the computer.

All Dell-standard components included in a Custom Factory Integration (CFI) project are covered by the standard Dell limited warranty for your computer. However, Dell also extends a parts replacement program to
cover all nonstandard, third-party hardware components integrated through CFI for the duration of the computer’s service contract.

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals
Dell-installed software includes the operating system and some of the software programs that are
installed on the computer during the manufacturing process (Microsoft® Office, Norton Antivirus,
and so on).

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Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dell-branded module bay or
ExpressCard accessories. In addition, any Dell-branded monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers,
microphones for telephonic modems, docking stations/port replicators, networking products, and
all associated cabling are included.

Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals
Third-party software and peripherals include any peripheral, accessory, or software program sold by
Dell not under the Dell brand (printers, scanners, cameras, games, and so on). Support for all thirdparty software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer of the product.

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

www.dell.com

•

support.dell.com (technical support)

•

premiersupport.dell.com (technical support for educational, government, healthcare, and
medium/large business customers, including Premier, Platinum, and Gold customers)

For specific web addresses for your country, find the appropriate country section in the table
below.
NOTE: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed.
NOTE: In certain countries, technical support specific to Dell XPS portable computers is available at a

separate telephone number listed for participating countries. If you do not see a telephone number listed that is
specific for XPS portable computers, you may contact Dell through the technical support number listed and
your call will be routed appropriately.

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

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Anguilla

General Support

toll-free: 800-335-0031

Antigua and Barbuda

General Support

1-800-805-5924

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Argentina (Buenos Aires)

Website: www.dell.com.ar

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: us_latin_services@dell.com

Country Code: 54

E-mail for desktop and portable computers:
la-techsupport@dell.com

City Code: 11

E-mail for servers and EMC® storage products:
la_enterprise@dell.com
Customer Care

toll-free: 0-800-444-0730

Tech Support

toll-free: 0-800-444-0733

Tech Support Services

toll-free: 0-800-444-0724

Sales
Aruba

General Support

Australia (Sydney)

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

International Access Code: 0011 E-mail Customer Care (Australia and
New Zealand): apcustserv@dell.com
Country Code: 61
City Code: 2

Appendix

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

Home and Small Business

1-300-655-533

Government and Business

toll-free: 1-800-633-559

Preferred Accounts Division (PAD)

toll-free: 1-800-060-889

Customer Care (after sales)

146

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

toll-free 1-333-55(option 3)

Technical Support (portables and desktops)

toll-free: 1-300-655-533

Technical Support (servers and workstations)

toll-free: 1-800-733-314

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1-800-808-385

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1-800-808-312

Fax

toll-free: 1-800-818-341

book.book Page 147 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Austria (Vienna)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 900

E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com

Country Code: 43

Home/Small Business Sales

0820 240 530 00

City Code: 1

Home/Small Business Fax

0820 240 530 49

Home/Small Business Customer Care

0820 240 530 14

Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care

0820 240 530 16

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0820 240 530 81

Home/Small Business Technical Support for all
other Dell computers

0820 240 530 14

Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support
Switchboard

0660 8779
0820 240 530 00

Bahamas

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6818

Barbados

General Support

1-800-534-3066

Belgium (Brussels)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Country Code: 32
City Code: 2

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

02 481 92 96

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

02 481 92 88

Technical Support Fax

02 481 92 95

Customer Care

02 713 15 65

Corporate Sales

02 481 91 00

Fax

02 481 92 99

Switchboard

02 481 91 00

Bermuda

General Support

1-800-342-0671

Bolivia

General Support

toll-free: 800-10-0238

Brazil

Website: www.dell.com/br

International Access Code: 00

Customer Support, Technical Support

Country Code: 55

Technical Support Fax

51 481 5470

City Code: 51

Customer Care Fax

51 481 5480

Sales
British Virgin Islands

General Support

0800 90 3355

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

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Brunei

Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4966

Country Code: 673

Customer Care (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4888

Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4955

Canada (North York, Ontario)

Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus

International Access Code: 011

AutoTech (automated technical support)

toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

Customer Care (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

Customer Care (med./large business, government)

toll-free: 1-800-326-9463

Technical Support (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

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

toll-free: 1-800-387-5757

Technical Support (printers, projectors, televisions,
handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)
Sales (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5752

Sales (med./large bus., government)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5755

Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales
Cayman Islands

General Support

Chile (Santiago)

Sales, Customer Support, and Technical Support

Country Code: 56
City Code: 2

148

Appendix

1-877-335-5767

1 866 440 3355
1-800-805-7541
toll-free: 1230-020-4823

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

China (Xiamen)

Technical Support website: support.dell.com.cn

Country Code: 86

Technical Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.com

City Code: 592

Customer Care E-mail: customer_cn@dell.com
Technical Support Fax

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

592 818 1350

Technical Support (Dell™ Dimension™ and
Inspiron)

toll-free: 800 858 2969

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

toll-free: 800 858 0950

Technical Support (servers and storage)

toll-free: 800 858 0960

Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, switches,
routers, and so on)

toll-free: 800 858 2920

Technical Support (printers)

toll-free: 800 858 2311

Customer Care

toll-free: 800 858 2060

Customer Care Fax

592 818 1308

Home and Small Business

toll-free: 800 858 2222

Preferred Accounts Division

toll-free: 800 858 2557

Large Corporate Accounts GCP

toll-free: 800 858 2055

Large Corporate Accounts Key Accounts

toll-free: 800 858 2628

Large Corporate Accounts North

toll-free: 800 858 2999

Large Corporate Accounts North Government and
Education

toll-free: 800 858 2955

Large Corporate Accounts East

toll-free: 800 858 2020

Large Corporate Accounts East Government and
Education

toll-free: 800 858 2669

Large Corporate Accounts Queue Team

toll-free: 800 858 2572

Large Corporate Accounts South

toll-free: 800 858 2355

Large Corporate Accounts West

toll-free: 800 858 2811

Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts

toll-free: 800 858 2621

Colombia

General Support

980-9-15-3978

Costa Rica

General Support

0800-012-0435

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Czech Republic (Prague)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com

Country Code: 420

Technical Support

22537 2727

Customer Care

22537 2707

Fax

22537 2714

Tech Fax

22537 2728

Switchboard

22537 2711

Denmark (Copenhagen)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/dk/da/emaildell/

Country Code: 45

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

7010 0074

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

7023 0182

Customer Care (Relational)

7023 0184

Home/Small Business Customer Care

3287 5505

Switchboard (Relational)

3287 1200

Switchboard Fax (Relational)

3287 1201

Switchboard (Home/Small Business)

3287 5000

Switchboard Fax (Home/Small Business)

3287 5001

Dominica

General Support

Dominican Republic

General Support

1-800-148-0530

Ecuador

General Support

toll-free: 999-119

El Salvador

General Support

01-899-753-0777

Finland (Helsinki)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 990

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

Country Code: 358

Technical Support

09 253 313 60

City Code: 9

Customer Care

09 253 313 38

Fax

09 253 313 99

Switchboard

09 253 313 00

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

France (Paris) (Montpellier)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Country Code: 33

Home and Small Business

City Codes: (1) (4)

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0825 387 129

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

0825 387 270

Customer Care

0825 823 833

Switchboard
Switchboard (calls from outside of France)

0825 004 700
04 99 75 40 00

Sales

0825 004 700

Fax

0825 004 701

Fax (calls from outside of France)

04 99 75 40 01

Corporate
Technical Support

0825 004 719

Customer Care

0825 338 339

Switchboard

01 55 94 71 00

Sales

01 55 94 71 00

Fax

01 55 94 71 01

Germany (Langen)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com

Country Code: 49

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

06103 766-7222

City Code: 6103

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

06103 766-7200

Home/Small Business Customer Care

0180-5-224400

Global Segment Customer Care

06103 766-9570

Preferred Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9420

Large Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9560

Public Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9555

Switchboard

06103 766-7000

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Greece

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Country Code: 30

Technical Support

00800-44 14 95 18

Gold Service Technical Support

00800-44 14 00 83

Switchboard

2108129810

Gold Service Switchboard

2108129811

Sales

2108129800

Fax

2108129812

Grenada

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

Guatemala

General Support

1-800-999-0136

Guyana

General Support

toll-free: 1-877-270-4609

Hong Kong

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support E-mail: apsupport@dell.com

Country Code: 852

Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)

2969 3188

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)

2969 3191

Technical Support (PowerApp™, PowerEdge™,
PowerConnect™, and PowerVault™)

2969 3196

Customer Care

3416 0910

Large Corporate Accounts

3416 0907

Global Customer Programs

3416 0908

Medium Business Division

3416 0912

Home and Small Business Division

2969 3105

India

E-mail: india_support_desktop@dell.com
india_support_notebook@dell.com
india_support_Server@dell.com
Technical Support

1600338045
and 1600448046

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Sales (Large Corporate Accounts)

1600 33 8044

Sales (Home and Small Business)

1600 33 8046

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Ireland (Cherrywood)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 16

E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com

Country Code: 353

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

1850 200 722

City Code: 1

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

1850 543 543

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

0870 908 0800

Home User Customer Care

01 204 4014

Small Business Customer Care
U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)
Corporate Customer Care
Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)

01 204 4014
0870 906 0010
1850 200 982
0870 907 4499

Ireland Sales
U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only)

01 204 4444
0870 907 4000

Fax/Sales Fax

01 204 0103

Switchboard

01 204 4444

Italy (Milan)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Country Code: 39

Home and Small Business

City Code: 02

Technical Support

02 577 826 90

Customer Care

02 696 821 14

Fax

02 696 821 13

Switchboard

02 696 821 12

Corporate
Technical Support

02 577 826 90

Customer Care

02 577 825 55

Fax

02 575 035 30

Switchboard
Jamaica

General Support (dial from within Jamaica only)

02 577 821
1-800-682-3639

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Japan (Kawasaki)

Website: support.jp.dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support (servers)

Country Code: 81

Technical Support outside of Japan (servers)

City Code: 44

Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and
Inspiron)
Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision,
OptiPlex, and Latitude)
Technical Support (PDAs, projectors, printers,
routers)
Technical Support outside of Japan (PDAs,
projectors, printers, routers)

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

toll-free: 0120-198-498
81-44-556-4162
toll-free: 0120-198-226
81-44-520-1435
toll-free:0120-198-433
81-44-556-3894
toll-free: 0120-981-690
81-44-556-3468

Faxbox Service

044-556-3490

24-Hour Automated Order Service

044-556-3801

Customer Care

044-556-4240

Business Sales Division (up to 400 employees)

044-556-1465

Preferred Accounts Division Sales (over 400
employees)

044-556-3433

Large Corporate Accounts Sales (over 3500
employees)

044-556-3430

Public Sales (government agencies, educational
institutions, and medical institutions)

044-556-1469

Global Segment Japan

044-556-3469

Individual User

044-556-1760

Switchboard

044-556-4300

Korea (Seoul)

E-mail: krsupport@dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support

toll-free: 080-200-3800

Country Code: 82

Technical Support (Dimension, PDA, Electronics
and Accessories)

toll-free: 080-200-3801

Sales

toll-free: 080-200-3600

City Code: 2

154

Appendix

Fax

2194-6202

Switchboard

2194-6000

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Latin America

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

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

512 728-4093

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

512 728-3619

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

512 728-3883

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

512 728-4397

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

512 728-4600
or 512 728-3772

Luxembourg

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support

Country Code: 352

Home/Small Business Sales

342 08 08 075
+32 (0)2 713 15 96

Corporate Sales

26 25 77 81

Customer Care

+32 (0)2 481 91 19

Fax

26 25 77 82

Macao

Technical Support

Country Code: 853

Customer Service (Xiamen, China)

34 160 910

Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China)

29 693 115

toll-free: 0800 105

Malaysia (Penang)

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)

toll-free: 1 800 880 193

Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)

toll-free: 1 800 881 306

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 881 386

Customer Care

toll-free: 1800 881 306
(option 6)

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 202

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 213

Country Code: 60
City Code: 4

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

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

Customer Technical Support

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 52

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383

Sales

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

Customer Service

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

Main

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

Montserrat

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6822

Netherlands Antilles

General Support

001-800-882-1519

Netherlands (Amsterdam)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

020 674 45 94

Country Code: 31

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

020 674 45 00

City Code: 20

Technical Support Fax

020 674 47 66

Home/Small Business Customer Care

020 674 42 00

Relational Customer Care

020 674 4325

Home/Small Business Sales

020 674 55 00

Relational Sales

020 674 50 00

Home/Small Business Sales Fax

020 674 47 75

Relational Sales Fax

020 674 47 50

Switchboard

020 674 50 00

Switchboard Fax

020 674 47 50

156

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

New Zealand

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

International Access Code: 00

E-mail Customer Care (Australia and
New Zealand): apcustserv@dell.com

Country Code: 64

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Customer Care

toll-free: 0800-289-335
(option 3)

Technical Support (for desktop and portable
computers)

toll-free: 0800 446 255

Technical Support (for servers and workstations)

toll-free: 0800 443 563

Home and Small Business

0800 446 255

Government and Business

0800 444 617

Sales

0800 441 567

Fax

0800 441 566

Nicaragua

General Support

Norway (Lysaker)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Country Code: 47

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

815 35 043

Technical Support for all other Dell products

671 16882

Relational Customer Care

671 17575

001-800-220-1006

Home/Small Business Customer Care

23162298

Switchboard

671 16800

Fax Switchboard

671 16865

Panama

General Support

001-800-507-0962

Peru

General Support

0800-50-669

Poland (Warsaw)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 011

E-mail: pl_support_tech@dell.com

Country Code: 48

Customer Service Phone

57 95 700

City Code: 22

Customer Care

57 95 999

Sales

57 95 999

Customer Service Fax

57 95 806

Reception Desk Fax

57 95 998

Switchboard

57 95 999

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Portugal

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Country Code: 351

Technical Support
Customer Care
Sales
Fax

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

707200149
800 300 413
800 300 410 or 800 300 411 or
800 300 412 or 21 422 07 10
21 424 01 12

Puerto Rico

General Support

1-800-805-7545

St. Kitts and Nevis

General Support

toll-free: 1-877-441-4731

St. Lucia

General Support

1-800-882-1521

St. Vincent and the Grenadines General Support

toll-free: 1-877-270-4609

Singapore (Singapore)

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 005

Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)

toll-free: 1800 394 7430

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)

toll-free: 1800 394 7488

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 394 7478

Country Code: 65

Customer Care

toll-free: 1 800 394 7430
(option 6)

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1 800 394 7412

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1 800 394 7419

Slovakia (Prague)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com

Country Code: 421

Technical Support
Customer Care

158

Appendix

02 5441 5727
420 22537 2707

Fax

02 5441 8328

Tech Fax

02 5441 8328

Switchboard (Sales)

02 5441 7585

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

South Africa (Johannesburg)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code:

E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com

09/091

Gold Queue

011 709 7713

Country Code: 27

Technical Support

011 709 7710

City Code: 11

Customer Care

011 709 7707

Sales

011 709 7700

Fax

011 706 0495

Switchboard

011 709 7700

Southeast Asian and Pacific
Countries

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

604 633 4810

Spain (Madrid)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Country Code: 34

Home and Small Business

City Code: 91

Technical Support

902 100 130

Customer Care

902 118 540

Sales

902 118 541

Switchboard

902 118 541

Fax

902 118 539

Corporate
Technical Support

902 100 130

Customer Care

902 115 236

Switchboard

91 722 92 00

Fax

91 722 95 83

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Sweden (Upplands Vasby)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Country Code: 46

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0771 340 340

City Code: 8

Technical Support for all other Dell products

08 590 05 199

Relational Customer Care

08 590 05 642

Home/Small Business Customer Care

08 587 70 527

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support

08 590 05 594

Sales

08 590 05 185

Switzerland (Geneva)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: Tech_support_central_Europe@dell.com

Country Code: 41

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

City Code: 22

20 140 14 44

Technical Support Fax

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0848 33 88 57

Technical Support (Home and Small Business) for
all other Dell products

0844 811 411

Technical Support (Corporate)

0844 822 844

Customer Care (Home and Small Business)

0848 802 202

Customer Care (Corporate)

0848 821 721

Fax

022 799 01 90

Switchboard

022 799 01 01

Taiwan

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 002

E-mail: ap_support@dell.com

Country Code: 886

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, Inspiron,
Dimension, and Electronics and Accessories)

toll-free: 00801 86 1011

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 00801 60 1256

Customer Care

toll-free: 00801 60 1250
(option 5)

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 00801 65 1228

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 00801 651 227

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Thailand

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)

toll-free: 1800 0060 07

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 0600 09

Customer Care

toll-free: 1800 006 007
(option 7)

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1800 006 009

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1800 006 006

Trinidad/Tobago

General Support

1-800-805-8035

Turks and Caicos Islands

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

U.K. (Bracknell)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

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

Country Code: 66

Country Code: 44
City Code: 1344

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

0870 908 0500

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0870 366 4180

Technical Support (direct and general) for all other
products

0870 908 0800

Global Accounts Customer Care

01344 373 186

Home and Small Business Customer Care

0870 906 0010

Corporate Customer Care

01344 373 185

Preferred Accounts (500–5000 employees)
Customer Care

0870 906 0010

Central Government Customer Care

01344 373 193

Local Government & Education Customer Care

01344 373 199

Health Customer Care

01344 373 194

Home and Small Business Sales

0870 907 4000

Corporate/Public Sector Sales

01344 860 456

Home and Small Business Fax
Uruguay

General Support

0870 907 4006
toll-free: 000-413-598-2521

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

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

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

U.S.A. (Austin, Texas)

Automated Order-Status Service

toll-free: 1-800-433-9014

International Access Code: 011

AutoTech (portable and desktop computers)

toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

Country Code: 1

Technical Support (Dell TV, Printers, and
Projectors) for Relationship customers

toll-free 1-877-459-7298

Consumer (Home and Home Office) Technical
Support for all other Dell products

toll-free: 1-800-624-9896

Customer Service

toll-free: 1-800-624-9897

DellNet™ Service and Support

toll-free: 1-877-Dellnet
(1-877-335-5638)

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers

toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Financial Services website:
www.dellfinancialservices.com
Financial Services (lease/loans)

toll-free: 1-877-577-3355

Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA])

toll-free: 1-800-283-2210

Business
Customer Service and Technical Support

toll-free: 1-800-456-3355

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers

toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Printers and Projectors Technical Support

toll-free: 1-877-459-7298

Public (government, education, and healthcare)
Customer Service and Technical Support

toll-free: 1-800-456-3355

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers

toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Dell Sales

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

Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers)

toll-free: 1-888-798-7561

Software and Peripherals Sales

toll-free: 1-800-671-3355

Spare Parts Sales

toll-free: 1-800-357-3355

Extended Service and Warranty Sales

toll-free: 1-800-247-4618

Fax

toll-free: 1-800-727-8320

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

toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY
(1-877-335-5889)

U.S. Virgin Islands

General Support

1-877-673-3355

Venezuela

General Support

8001-3605

162

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

A
AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that
powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter
power cable in to an electrical outlet.
ACPI — advanced configuration and power interface —
A power management specification that enables
Microsoft® Windows® operating systems to put a
computer in standby or hibernate mode to conserve the
amount of electrical power allocated to each device
attached to the computer.
AGP — accelerated graphics port — A dedicated graphics
port that allows system memory to be used for videorelated tasks. AGP delivers a smooth, true-color video
image because of the faster interface between the video
circuitry and the computer memory.

battery — A rechargeable internal power source used to
operate portable computers when not connected to an AC
adapter and an electrical outlet.
battery life span — The length of time (years) during
which a portable computer battery is able to be depleted
and recharged.
battery operating time — The length of time (minutes or
hours) that a portable computer battery holds a charge
while powering the computer.
BIOS — basic input/output system — A program (or
utility) that serves as an interface between the computer
hardware and the operating system. Unless you
understand what effect these settings have on the
computer, do not change them. Also referred to as the
system setup program.
bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your
computer.
Bluetooth® wireless technology — A wireless technology
standard for short-range (9 m [29 feet]) networking
devices that allows for enabled devices to automatically
recognize each other.

antivirus software — A program designed to identify,
quarantine, and/or delete viruses from your computer.

boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from
which the computer attempts to boot.

APR — advanced port replicator — A docking device that
allows you to conveniently use an external monitor,
keyboard, mouse, and other devices with your portable
computer.

bootable CD — A CD that you can use to start your
computer. In case your hard drive is damaged or your
computer has a virus, ensure that you always have a
bootable CD or floppy disk available. Your Drivers and
Utilities or ResourceCD is a bootable CD.

ASF — alert standards format — A standard to define a
mechanism for reporting hardware and software alerts to a
management console. ASF is designed to be platform- and
operating system-independent.

bootable disk — A disk that you can use to start your
computer. In case your hard drive is damaged or your
computer has a virus, ensure that you always have a
bootable CD or floppy disk available.

bps — bits per second — The standard unit for measuring
data transmission speed.

backup — A copy of a program or data file on a floppy,
CD, DVD, or hard drive. As a precaution, back up the
data files from your hard drive regularly.

BTU — British thermal unit — A measurement of heat
output.

Glossary

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bus — A communication pathway between the
components in your computer.
bus speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how
fast a bus can transfer information.
byte — The basic data unit used by your computer. A byte
is usually equal to 8 bits.

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

CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a
combo drive, that can read CDs and DVDs and write to
CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs)
discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but
you can write to CD-R discs only once.
clock speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates
how fast computer components that are connected to the
system bus operate.
COA — Certificate of Authenticity — The Windows
alpha-numeric code located on a sticker on your
computer. Also referred to as the Product Key or
Product ID.
Control Panel — A Windows utility that allows you to
modify operating system and hardware settings, such as
display settings.
controller — A chip that controls the transfer of data
between the processor and memory or between the
processor and devices.
CRIMM — continuity rambus in-line memory module
— A special module that has no memory chips and is used
to fill unused RIMM slots.
cursor — The marker on a display or screen that shows
where the next keyboard, touch pad, or mouse action will
occur. It often is a blinking solid line, an underline
character, or a small arrow.

CD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read
data from CDs.

CD player — The software used to play music CDs. The
CD player displays a window with buttons that you use to
play a CD.

DDR SDRAM — double-data-rate SDRAM — A type of
SDRAM that doubles the data burst cycle, improving
system performance.

CD-R — CD recordable — A recordable version of a CD.
Data can be recorded only once onto a CD-R. Once
recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.

DDR2 SDRAM — double-data-rate 2 SDRAM — A type
of DDR SDRAM that uses a 4-bit prefetch and other
architectural changes to boost memory speed to over
400 MHz.

CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a
CD. Data can be written to a CD-RW disc, and then
erased and written over (rewritten).
CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to
CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs)
discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but
you can write to CD-R discs only once.

164

Glossary

device — Hardware such as a disk drive, printer, or
keyboard that is installed in or connected to your
computer.
device driver — See driver.
DIMM — Dual Inline Memory Module.

book.book Page 165 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

DIN connector — A round, six-pin connector that
conforms to DIN (Deutsche Industrie-Norm) standards;
it is typically used to connect PS/2 keyboard or mouse
cable connectors.
disk striping — A technique for spreading data over
multiple disk drives. Disk striping can speed up operations
that retrieve data from disk storage. Computers that use
disk striping generally allow the user to select the data
unit size or stripe width.
DMA — direct memory access — A channel that allows
certain types of data transfer between RAM and a device
to bypass the processor.
docking device — See APR.

DVD player — The software used to watch DVD movies.
The DVD player displays a window with buttons that you
use to watch a movie.
DVD-R — DVD recordable — A recordable version of a
DVD. Data can be recorded only once onto a DVD-R.
Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.
DVD+RW — DVD rewritable — A rewritable version of
a DVD. Data can be written to a DVD+RW disc, and
then erased and written over (rewritten). (DVD+RW
technology is different from DVD-RW technology.)
DVD+RW drive — A drive that can read DVDs and most
CD media and write to DVD+RW (rewritable DVDs)
discs.

DMTF — Distributed Management Task Force — A
consortium of hardware and software companies who
develop management standards for distributed desktop,
network, enterprise, and Internet environments.

DVI — digital video interface — A standard for digital
transmission between a computer and a digital video
display.

domain — A group of computers, programs, and devices
on a network that are administered as a unit with common
rules and procedures for use by a specific group of users. A
user logs on to the domain to gain access to the resources.

DRAM — dynamic random-access memory — Memory
that stores information in integrated circuits containing
capacitors.
driver — Software that allows the operating system to
control a device such as a printer. Many devices do not
work properly if the correct driver is not installed in the
computer.
DSL — Digital Subscriber Line — A technology that
provides a constant, high-speed Internet connection
through an analog telephone line.

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

dual display mode — A display setting that allows you to
use a second monitor as an extension of your display. Also
referred to as extended display mode.

ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency
requirements that decrease the overall consumption of
electricity.

DVD — digital versatile disc — A high-capacity disc
usually used to store movies. DVD drives read most CD
media as well.

EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector
design that provides bidirectional data transmission.

DVD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read
data from DVDs and CDs.

ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of
static electricity. ESD can damage integrated circuits
found in computer and communications equipment.

Glossary

165

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expansion card — A circuit board that installs in an
expansion slot on the system board in some computers,
expanding the capabilities of the computer. Examples
include video, modem, and sound cards.
expansion slot — A connector on the system board (in
some computers) where you insert an expansion card,
connecting it to the system bus.
ExpressCard — A removable I/O card adhering to the
PCMCIA standard. Modems and network adapters are
common types of ExpressCards. ExpressCards support
both the PCI Express and USB 2.0 standard.
Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a
sticker on your Dell™ computer. Use the Express Service
Code when contacting Dell for assistance. Express Service
Code service may not be available in some countries.
extended display mode — A display setting that allows
you to use a second monitor as an extension of your
display. Also referred to as dual display mode.
extended PC Card — A PC Card that extends beyond the
edge of the PC Card slot when installed.

F
Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale
where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling
point of water.
FCC — Federal Communications Commission — A U.S.
agency responsible for enforcing communications-related
regulations that state how much radiation computers and
other electronic equipment can emit.
floppy — An electromagnetic form of storage media. Also
known as a floppy diskette or a floppy disk.
floppy drive — A disk drive that can read and write to
floppy disks.
folder — A term used to describe space on a disk or drive
where files are organized and grouped. Files in a folder can
be viewed and ordered in various ways, such as
alphabetically, by date, and by size.
format — The process that prepares a drive or disk for file
storage. When a drive or disk is formatted, the existing
information on it is lost.

166

Glossary

FSB — front side bus — The data path and physical
interface between the processor and RAM.
FTP — file transfer protocol — A standard Internet
protocol used to exchange files between computers
connected to the Internet.

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

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 processors that helps
dissipate heat.
help file — A file that contains descriptive or
instructional information about a product. Some help
files are associated with a particular program, such as Help
in Microsoft Word. Other help files function as standalone reference sources. Help files typically have a
filename extension of .hlp or .chm.
hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves
everything in memory to a reserved space on the hard
drive and then turns off the computer. When you restart

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the computer, the memory information that was saved to
the hard drive is automatically restored.
HTML — hypertext markup language — A set of codes
inserted into an Internet web page intended for display on
an Internet browser.
HTTP — hypertext transfer protocol — A protocol for
exchanging files between computers connected to the
Internet.
Hz — hertz — A unit of frequency measurement that
equals 1 cycle per second. Computers and electronic
devices are often measured in kilohertz (kHz), megahertz
(MHz), gigahertz (GHz), or terahertz (THz).

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 processor to
communicate with that device.
IrDA — Infrared Data Association — The organization
that creates international standards for infrared
communications.
IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway
assigned to a specific device so that the device can
communicate with the processor. Each device connection
must be assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share
the same IRQ assignment, you cannot operate both
devices simultaneously.
ISP — Internet service provider — A company that allows
you to access its host server to connect directly to the
Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access websites.
The ISP typically provides you with a software package,
user name, and access phone numbers for a fee.

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.
key combination — A command requiring you to press
multiple keys at the same time.
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.

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LED — light-emitting diode — An electronic component
that emits light to indicate the status of the computer.
local bus — A data bus that provides a fast throughput for
devices to the processor.
LPT — line print terminal — The designation for a
parallel connection to a printer or other parallel device.

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 processor can access.
memory module — A small circuit board containing
memory chips, which connects to the system board.
MHz — megahertz — A measure of frequency that equals
1 million cycles per second. The speeds for computer
processors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in
MHz.

168

Glossary

Mini PCI — A standard for integrated peripherals with
an emphasis on communications such as such as modems
and NICs. Mini PCI is a small card that is functionally
equivalent to a standard PCI expansion card.
modem — A device that allows your computer to
communicate with other computers over analog
telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external,
PC Card or ExpressCard, and internal. You typically use
your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange
e-mail.
module bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical
drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module.
monitor — The high-resolution TV-like device that
displays computer output.
mouse — A pointing device that controls the movement
of the cursor on your screen. Typically you roll the mouse
over a hard, flat surface to move the pointer or cursor on
your screen.
ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one
thousandth of a second. Access times of storage devices
are often measured in ms.

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

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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 processor
and devices such as video, drives, and networks.
PCI Express — A modification to the PCI interface that
boosts the data transfer rate between the processor and
the devices attached to it. PCI Express can transfer data at
speeds from 250 MB/sec to 4 GB/sec. If the PCI Express
chip set and the device are capable of different speeds,
they will operate at the slower speed.
PCMCIA — Personal Computer Memory Card
International Association — The organization that
establishes standards for PC Cards.
PIN — personal identification number — A sequence of
numerals and/or letters used to restrict unauthorized
access to computer networks and other secure systems.
PIO — programmed input/output — A method of
transferring data between two devices through the
processor as part of the data path.
pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are
arranged in rows and columns to create an image. A video
resolution, such as 800 x 600, is expressed as the number
of pixels across by the number of pixels up and down.

Plug-and-Play — The ability of the computer to
automatically configure devices. Plug and Play provides
automatic installation, configuration, and compatibility
with existing hardware if the BIOS, operating system, and
all devices are Plug and Play compliant.
POST — power-on self-test — Diagnostics programs,
loaded automatically by the BIOS, that perform basic
tests on the major computer components, such as
memory, hard drives, and video. If no problems are
detected during POST, the computer continues the
start-up.
processor — A computer chip that interprets and executes
program instructions. Sometimes the processor is referred
to as the CPU (central processing unit).
program — Any software that processes data for you,
including spreadsheet, word processor, database, and
game packages. Programs require an operating system to
run.
PS/2 — personal system/2 — A type of connector for
attaching a PS/2-compatible keyboard, mouse, or keypad.
PXE — pre-boot execution environment — A WfM
(Wired for Management) standard that allows networked
computers that do not have an operating system to be
configured and started remotely.

R
RAID — redundant array of independent disks — A
method of providing data redundancy. Some common
implementations of RAID include RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 5, RAID 10, and RAID 50.
RAM — random-access memory — The primary
temporary storage area for program instructions and data.
Any information stored in RAM is lost when you shut
down your computer.
readme file — A text file included with a software package
or hardware product. Typically, readme files provide
installation information and describe new product
enhancements or corrections that have not yet been
documented.

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

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.

170

Glossary

SDRAM — synchronous dynamic random-access memory
— A type of DRAM that is synchronized with the optimal
clock speed of the processor.
serial connector — An I/O port often used to connect
devices such as a handheld digital device or digital camera
to your computer.
Service Tag — A bar code label on your computer that
identifies your computer when you access Dell Support at
support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer
service or technical support.
setup program — A program that is used to install and
configure hardware and software. The setup.exe or
install.exe program comes with most Windows software
packages. Setup program differs from the system setup
program.
shortcut — An icon that provides quick access to
frequently used programs, files, folders, and drives. When
you place a shortcut on your Windows desktop and
double-click the icon, you can open its corresponding
folder or file without having to find it first. Shortcut icons
do not change the location of files. If you delete a
shortcut, the original file is not affected. Also, you can
rename a shortcut icon.
shutdown — The process of closing windows and exiting
programs, exiting the operating system, and turning off
your computer. You can lose data if you turn off your
computer before completing a shutdown.
smart card — A card that is embedded with a processor
and a memory chip. Smart cards can be used to
authenticate a user on computers equipped for smart
cards.
software — Anything that can be stored electronically,
such as computer files or programs.
S/PDIF — Sony/Philips Digital Interface — An audio
transfer file format that allows the transfer of audio from
one file to another without converting it to and from an
analog format, which could degrade the quality of the file.
standby mode — A power management mode that shuts
down all unnecessary computer operations to save energy.

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Strike Zone™ — Reinforced area of the platform base
that protects the hard drive by acting as a dampening
device when a computer experiences resonating shock or
is dropped (whether the computer is on or off).
surge protectors — Prevent voltage spikes, such as those
that may occur during an electrical storm, from entering
the computer through the electrical outlet. Surge
protectors do not protect against lightning strikes or
against brownouts, which occur when the voltage drops
more than 20 percent below the normal AC-line voltage
level.
Network connections cannot be protected by surge
protectors. Always disconnect the network cable from the
network connector during electrical storms.
SVGA — super-video graphics array — A video standard
for video cards and controllers. Typical SVGA resolutions
are 800 x 600 and 1024 x 768.
The number of colors and resolution that a program
displays depends on the capabilities of the monitor, the
video controller and its drivers, and the amount of video
memory installed in the computer.
S-video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or
digital audio device to the computer.
SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video
standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1280 x 1024.
SXGA+ — super-extended graphics array plus — A video
standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1400 x 1050.
system board — The main circuit board in your computer.
Also known as the motherboard.
system setup — A utility that serves as an interface
between the computer hardware and the operating
system. System setup allows you to configure userselectable options in the BIOS, such as date and time or
system password. Unless you understand what effect the
settings have on the computer, do not change the settings
for this program.
system tray — See notification area.

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

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UXGA — ultra extended graphics array — A video
standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1600 x 1200.

WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used
to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For
example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for
1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours.

video controller — The circuitry on a video card or on the
system board (in computers with an integrated video
controller) that provides the video capabilities—in
combination with the monitor—for your computer.
video memory — Memory that consists of memory chips
dedicated to video functions. Video memory is usually
faster than system memory. The amount of video memory
installed primarily influences the number of colors that a
program can display.
video mode — A mode that describes how text and
graphics are displayed on a monitor. Graphics-based
software, such as Windows operating systems, displays in
video modes that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y
vertical pixels by z colors. Character-based software, such
as text editors, displays in video modes that can be
defined as x columns by y rows of characters.
video resolution — See resolution.

W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One
W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt.

wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the
Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the
Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in your favorite
picture and make it wallpaper.
write-protected — Files or media that cannot be changed.
Use write-protection when you want to protect data from
being changed or destroyed. To write-protect a 3.5-inch
floppy disk, slide its write-protect tab to the open
position.
WXGA — wide-aspect extended graphics array — A video
standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1280 x 800.

virus — A program that is designed to inconvenience you
or to destroy data stored on your computer. A virus
program moves from one computer to another through an
infected disk, software downloaded from the Internet, or
e-mail attachments. When an infected program starts, its
embedded virus also starts.

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

A common type of virus is a boot virus, which is stored in
the boot sectors of a floppy disk. If the floppy disk is left in
the drive when the computer is shut down and then
turned on, the computer is infected when it reads the
boot sectors of the floppy disk expecting to find the
operating system. If the computer is infected, the boot
virus may replicate itself onto all the floppy disks that are
read or written in that computer until the virus is
eradicated.

ZIF — zero insertion force — A type of socket or
connector that allows a computer chip to be installed or
removed with no stress applied to either the chip or its
socket.

V — volt — The measurement of electric potential or
electromotive force. One V appears across a resistance of
1 ohm when a current of 1 ampere flows through that
resistance.

172

Glossary

Zip — A popular data compression format. Files that have
been compressed with the Zip format are called Zip files
and usually have a filename extension of .zip. A special
kind of zipped file is a self-extracting file, which has a
filename extension of .exe. You can unzip a self-extracting
file by double-clicking it.

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Zip drive — A high-capacity floppy drive developed by
Iomega Corporation that uses 3.5-inch removable disks
called Zip disks. Zip disks are slightly larger than regular
floppy disks, about twice as thick, and hold up to 100 MB
of data.

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174

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Index
Numbers

battery-bay latch release, 23

5-in-1 media memory card
reader, 71

blanks
ExpressCards, 67
removing, 68, 72

A
audio connectors, 20
audio device
connecting, 55
enabling, 64
audio. See sound

B
battery
charge gauge, 47
charging, 47
checking the charge, 46
description, 23
health gauge, 47
installing, 108
life expectancy, 39
low-battery warning, 47
low-charge warning, 43
performance, 45
power conservation, 39
power meter, 46
removing, 108
storing, 48

Bluetooth wireless technology
card
device status light, 18
installing, 127
boot sequence, 138
brightness
adjusting, 33

C
CardBus technology
ExpressCards, 45, 67
media memory cards, 71
carnet, 140
CD drive
problems, 81
CD-RW drive
problems, 81
CDs, 52
operating system, 14
playing, 49
Check Disk, 81
cleaning
touch pad, 142

computer
crashes, 88-89
restore to previous operating
state, 100
restore to previous state, 99
slow performance, 83, 90
specifications, 131
stops responding, 88
conflicts
software and hardware
incompatibilities, 99
connecting
audio device, 55
TV, 55
Control Panel
power options, 42
copying CDs
general information, 52
helpful tips, 54
how to, 52
copying DVDs
general information, 52
helpful tips, 54
how to, 52

D
Dell
contacting, 145
support policy, 142
support site, 13

Index

175

176

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Index

Dell Diagnostics, 77
starting from the Drivers and
Utilities CD, 78
starting from your hard
drive, 77

documentation (continued)
safety, 12
warranty, 12

Dell MediaDirect, 17, 54
problems, 89

drivers, 96
about, 96
identifying, 97
reinstalling, 97

Dell Premier Support
website, 12
device security screw
about, 111
device status lights, 16
diagnostics
Dell, 77
display
adjusting brightness, 33
adjusting the size of icons, 44
adjusting the size of
toolbars, 44
description, 16
resolution, 34
switching the video image, 33
display latch, 18
display settings for a TV
enabling in Windows XP, 66
display. See monitor
documentation
End User License
Agreement, 12
ergonomics, 12
online, 13
Product Information
Guide, 12
regulatory, 12

176

Index

Dolby headphones, setting
up, 65

Drivers and Utilities CD, 98
drives
problems, 80
See hard drive

F
fan
description, 19, 23
FCC notice, 142
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 26
floppy drive
connecting to a USB
connector, 21-22

DVDs, 52
playing, 49

hard drive
description, 24
problems, 81
replacing, 108
returning to Dell, 111

hardware
conflicts, 99
Dell Diagnostics, 77

DVD drive
problems, 81

End User License
Agreement, 12
ergonomics information, 12
error messages, 83
ExpressCard slot
description, 20
ExpressCards
blanks, 67-68
CardBus technology, 45, 67
extended, 45, 67
installing, 67
removing, 68
slots, 45, 67
types, 45, 67

Hardware Troubleshooter, 99
Help and Support Center, 13
help file
Windows Help and Support
Center, 13
hibernate mode, 42-43
hinge cover
removing, 123

I
icons
adjusting the size, 44

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IEEE 1394 connector
description, 20
problems, 87
Internet connection
about, 25
options, 25
setting up, 25
IRQ conflicts, 99

K
keyboard
description, 17
numeric keypad, 35
problems, 87
removing, 125
shortcuts, 36
keyboard status lights
description, 18
keypad
numeric, 35

L
labels
Microsoft Windows, 12
Service Tag, 12
lost computer, 141

M
media control buttons
Dell MediaDirect button, 54
description, 17

media control buttons
(continued)
play/pause/Dell
MediaDirect, 17
media memory cards
blanks, 72
CardBus technology, 71
installing, 71
removing, 72
slots, 71
types, 71
memory
adding, 113, 115
installing, 112
removing, 114, 116
memory module cover, 23
messages
error, 83
Microsoft Windows label, 12
Mini PCI card
installing, 121
modem
installing, 119

N
network
Network Setup Wizard, 73
problems, 91
setting up, 73
network connector
description, 22
Network Setup Wizard, 73

O
operating system
CD, 14
reinstalling, 14
reinstalling Windows XP, 100
Operating System CD, 14
optical drive
description, 21
optical-drive-tray eject
button
description, 21

modem connector
description, 21

modem cover
description, 24

playing CDs, 49

module bay
device security screw, 111
swapping devices, 111
monitor
problems, 95
switching the video image, 33

PC Restore, 101
playing DVDs, 49
power
hibernate mode, 42
line conditioners, 30
management, 39
power options properties, 42
problems, 91

Index

177

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Index

power (continued)
protection devices, 30
settings, 39
standby mode, 41
surge protectors, 30
UPS, 30
power light
conditions, 91
power management
adjusting settings, 44
QuickSet, 44
power management. See
power
printer
cable, 29
connecting, 29
problems, 92
setting up, 29
USB, 30
problems
blue screen, 89
CD drive, 81
CD-RW drive, 81
computer crashes, 88-89
computer does not start up, 88
computer stops responding, 88
conflicts, 99
Dell Diagnostics, 77
Dell MediaDirect, 89
drives, 80
DVD drive, 81
error messages, 83
hard drive, 81
IEEE 1394 connector, 87
keyboard, 87
lockups, 88
network, 91

178

Index

problems (continued)
power, 91
power light conditions, 91
printer, 92
program crashes repeatedly, 88
program stops responding, 88
programs and Windows
compatibility, 89
restore computer to previous
operating state, 100
restore operating system to
previous state, 99
scanner, 93
slow computer
performance, 83, 90
software, 88-90
sound and speakers, 94
speaker, 94
spyware, 83, 90
technical support policy, 142
video and monitor, 95
Product Information
Guide, 12

resolution
setting, 34
ResourceCD
Dell Diagnostics, 77

S
S/PDIF digital audio
enabling, 64
safety instructions, 12
scanner
problems, 93
screen. See monitor
security
device security screw, 111
security cable slot
description, 19
Service Tag, 12
software
conflicts, 99
problems, 89-90

QuickSet, 36, 44, 54

sound
problems, 94
volume, 94

speaker
problems, 94
volume, 94

RAM. See memory
regulatory information, 12
regulatory notice
FCC, 142
reinstalling
Windows XP, 100

speakers
description, 17
specifications, 131
spyware, 83, 90
standby mode
about, 41, 43
password options, 43

book.book Page 179 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

stolen computer, 141
support
contacting Dell, 145
policy, 142
support website, 13
S-video TV-out connector
description, 20
System Restore, 99-100
system setup program
commonly used options, 138
purpose, 137
screens, 138
viewing, 137

T
taskbar
QuickSet icon, 44
technical support
policy, 142
toolbars
adjusting the size, 44

troubleshooting
conflicts, 99
Dell Diagnostics, 77
external keyboard
problems, 87
Hardware Troubleshooter, 99
Help and Support Center, 13
restore computer to previous
operating state, 100
restore to previous state, 99
TV
connecting, 55
enabling display settings in
Windows XP, 66

U
uninterruptible power supply.
See UPS
UPS, 30
USB connectors
description, 21-22

touch pad
cleaning, 142
customizing, 38
description, 17

transferring information to a
new computer, 26

video connector
description, 22

traveling with the computer
by air, 140
identification tag, 139
packing, 139
tips, 140

volume
adjusting, 94

video
problems, 95

W
warranty information, 12
Windows XP
Device Driver Rollback, 97
enabling display settings for a
TV, 66
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 26
Hardware Troubleshooter, 99
Help and Support Center, 13
hibernate mode, 42
Network Setup Wizard, 73
power options properties, 42
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 89
reinstalling, 14, 100
standby mode, 41
System Restore, 99-100
wireless
turning activity on and off, 44
wizards
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 26
Network Setup Wizard, 73
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 89

Index

179

180

book.book Page 180 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM

Index

180

Index

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