NMB Technologies 7D70 Cordless Keyboard User Manual book

NMB Technologies Corp. Cordless Keyboard book

Manual

www.dell.com | support.dell.comDell™ XPS™ M2010Owner’s ManualModel PP03X
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 AcronymsFor a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see "Glossary" on page 177.____________________Information in this document is subject to change without notice.© 2006 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault, PowerApp, PowerConnect, Dell TravelLite, Dell Media Experience, Dell MediaDirect, and XPS are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Core are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.Model PP03XMay 2006 P/N RC676 Rev. A00
Contents 3ContentsFinding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Left View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Right View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Back View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Bottom View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262 Using the Keyboard and Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Pairing the Keyboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Keyboard Pairing Failed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Pairing the Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Mouse Pairing With the Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Mouse Pairing Failed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Key Combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Display Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Wireless Networking Technology Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Display Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Microsoft Windows Logo Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Customizing the Touch Pad and Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
4ContentsKeyboard Battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Dell QuickSet Battery Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Replacing the Keyboard Battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 373 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Playing CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41Adjusting the Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Copying CDs and DVDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42How to Copy a CD or DVD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Using Blank CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Using Dell Media Experience and Dell MediaDirect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44If the computer is turned on or in standby mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44If the computer is turned off or in hibernate mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience Help . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Using Your Computer With a TV or Audio Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Connecting a Composite Video Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Connecting a Component Video Adapter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Connecting Audio/IR Blaster Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Enabling S/PDIF in the Windows Audio Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Enabling the Display Settings for a TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 504 Using the Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51Opening the Display Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51Closing the Display Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51Adjusting the Display Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52Adjusting Brightness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52Switching the Video Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Contents 5Dual Independent Display Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54Using the Camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Setting Up the Camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Accessing Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Taking a Picture or Recording a Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 565 Using a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Inserting the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Removing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60Checking the Battery Charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Dell QuickSet Battery Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62Microsoft Windows Power Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62Charge Gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Conserving Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Storing a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64Power Management Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64Hibernate Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65Configuring Power Management Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 656 Setting Up Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Setting Up Your Internet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Transferring Information to a New Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
6ContentsRunning the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71Printer Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71Connecting a USB Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71Power Protection Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Surge Protectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Line Conditioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Uninterruptible Power Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 737 Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem . . . . . . . . . . 75Network Setup Wizard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76Checking Your Wireless Network Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76Setting Up a New WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77Connecting to a WLAN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager . . . . . . . . . . . 78Completing the Connection to the WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN). . . . . . . . . 80What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81Windows Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Contents 78Using Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83Supported Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83Media Memory Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83Compact Flash Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83ExpressCard Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84Extended Cards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84Installing a Media Memory Card or ExpressCard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84Removing a Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 859 Securing Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Using a Primary/System Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88Using an Administrator Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88Computer Tracking Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89If Your Computer is Lost or Stolen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8910 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91Dell Technical Update Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91When to Use the Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 91Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD . . . . . . 92Dell Diagnostics Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93Dell Support Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Accessing the Dell Support Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Clicking the Dell Support Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95DVD drive problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound . . . . . . . . . . . 96Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
8ContentsE-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98IEEE 1394 Device Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101Keyboard problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101Unexpected characters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102The computer does not start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102A program stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102A program crashes repeatedly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103Dell MediaDirect problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103Memory Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105Mobile Broadband Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105Media Memory Card or ExpressCard Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108No sound from integrated speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108No sound from external speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109No sound from headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109Touch Pad or Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Contents 9Video and Display Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110If the display is blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110If the display is difficult to read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110If only part of the display is readable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11111 System Setup Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113Viewing the System Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113System Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114Commonly Used Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114Changing the Boot Sequence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114About Your RAID Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115RAID Level 0 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115RAID Level 1 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116Configuring Your Computer for RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117Configuring for RAID Using the Intel RAID Option ROM Utility . . . . . . 118Configuring for RAID Using the Intel Matrix Storage Manager . . . . . 11912 Traveling With Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121Identifying Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121Packing the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121Travel Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122Traveling by Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12213 Reinstalling Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
10 ContentsRestoring Your Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126Using the Operating System CD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12814 Adding and Replacing Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131Before Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133Mini PCI-e Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136WLAN Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13815 Dell QuickSet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13916 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14117 Obtaining Assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149AutoTech Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150Automated Order-Status Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150Support Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150Problems With Your Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151Before You Call. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152Contacting Dell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Contents 1118 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173Caution Regarding Safety and Bluetooth devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173Cleaning Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173Computer, Keyboard, and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174CDs and DVDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174Macrovision Product Notice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175FCC Notice (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175FCC Class B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
12 Contents
Finding Information 13Finding 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• A diagnostic program for my computer• Drivers for my computer • Notebook System Software (NSS)Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as ResourceCD)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, including the drivers required if your computer has a RAID controller (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 124). You can also use this CD to run the Dell™ Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91).Readme files may be included on your CD to provide last-minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technical-reference material for technicians or experienced users.NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at support.dell.com.• Warranty information• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)• Safety instructions• Regulatory information• Ergonomics information• End User License AgreementDell Product Information Guide
14 Finding Information• How to set up my computer Setup Diagram• Service Tag and Express Service Code • Microsoft Windows License Label• Model Name, electrical ratings, Agency approval marksService Tag and Microsoft® Windows® LicenseThe service tag label is located inside the computer base battery compartment of your computer. • Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting support. The Microsoft Windows License Label in on the base of your computer.Model Name, electrical ratings, and Agency approval marks are located inside the computer base battery compartment of your computer. See "Removing the Battery" on page 59.What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
Finding Information 15• 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• Notebook System Software (NSS) — If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the NSS utility. NSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell 3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel® processors, optical drives, and USB devices. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration.Dell Support Website — support.dell.comNOTE: Select your region or business segment to view the appropriate support site.To download Notebook System Software:1Go to support.dell.com, select your region or business segment, and enter your Service Tag. 2Select Drivers & Downloads and click Go.3Click your operating system and search for the keyword Notebook System Software.NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary depending on your selections.• Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints — Frequently asked questions, hot topics, and general health of your computing environmentDell Support UtilityThe Dell Support Utility is an automated upgrade and notification system installed on your computer. This support provides real-time health scans of your computing environment, software updates, and relevant self-support information. Access the Dell Support Utility from the icon in the taskbar. For more information, see "Dell Support Utility" on page 94.• How to use Windows XP• How to work with programs and files• How to personalize my desktopWindows Help and Support Center1Click Start→ Help and Support.2Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon.3Click the topic that describes your problem.4Follow the instructions on the screen.What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
16 Finding Information• Information on network activity, the Power Management Wizard, hotkeys, and other items controlled by Dell QuickSet.Dell QuickSet HelpTo view Dell QuickSet Help, right-click the icon in the Microsoft Windows taskbar.For more information on Dell QuickSet, see "Dell QuickSet" on page 139.• How to reinstall my operating systemOperating System CDThe operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the Operating System CD. See "Reinstalling Windows XP" on page 128. After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD) to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.Your operating system product key label is located on your computer.NOTE: The color of your CD varies based on the operating system you ordered.• Information on Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition• Standard remote control instructionsDell Media Center User’s Guide What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
About Your Computer 17About Your ComputerFront View1camera2display latches (4)3display4speakers (8)5MediaDirect button6power button7keyboard status lights (4)8mouse9keyboard media control buttons10touch pad11touch pad buttons (2)12 base media control buttons13keyboard14device status lights (5)15DVD drive16infrared sensor15210124143615791113816
18 About Your ComputerCAMERA —Built-in camera for video-conferencing. DISPLAY —For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on page 51.DISPLAY LATCHES (4) — To keep the display closed.SPEAKERS (8) — To adjust the volume of the integrated speaker, press the volume control buttons, mute button, or volume-control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Key Combinations" on page 34.MEDIADIRECT BUTTON —Controls access to Dell MediaDirect™. For more information, see "Using Dell Media Experience and Dell MediaDirect" on page 44. POWER BUTTON —Press the power button to turn on the computer or exit a power management mode. NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft® Windows® operating system shutdown rather than by pressing the power button.If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off completely (which may take several seconds).KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS (4)The blue lights located at the top right of the keyboard indicate the following:Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate keyboard battery charge status.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.9A
About Your Computer 19MOUSE —Wireless mouse. For more information, see "Using the Keyboard and Mouse" on page 29. MEDIA CONTROL BUTTONS —Control CD and DVD playback. Press to open or close the DVD drive. If media is present in the closed drive, pressing this button will open the drive and eject the media. Press once to go back to the start of the current playing track/chapter. Press multiple times to skip back to previous track/chapters. Press and hold to rewind within the current track/chapter. Press to stop the CD or DVD. Press once to skip forward one track/chapter. Press multiple times to skip forward multiple tracks/chapters. Press and hold to fast-forward within the current track/chapter. Press to either play or pause the media. If there is no media playing in the drive, pressing this button opens either the CD or DVD menu with Media Center Experience, depending on the type of disk in the drive.
20 About Your ComputerTOUCH PAD —Provides the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 35 for more information.TOUCH PAD BUTTONS (2) — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 35 for more information. KEYBOARD —The wireless keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Windows logo key. For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Numeric Keypad" on page 33.DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS (5)Press to turn off the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers. Press to decrease the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers. Press to increase the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers. Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in a power management mode. Turns on when the computer reads or writes data. NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is flashing.Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status. Turns on when Bluetooth® wireless technology is enabled. Turns on when wireless devices are enabled.
About Your Computer 21If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the light operates as follows:– Solid blue: The battery is charging.– Flashing blue: The battery is almost fully charged.– Off: The battery is adequately charged (or external power is not available to charge the battery).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.DVD DRIVE —Plays CDs and DVDs. The DVD drive is controlled by the media buttons. For more information, see "Using Multimedia" on page 39. INFRARED SENSOR —Used to control your Media Center PC from up to 20 feet away with the standard remote control. Left ViewSECURITY CABLE SLOT —Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device. NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot.1security cable slot2USB 2.0 connectors (2)3microphone connector4headphone connector5 wireless connection button(Bluetooth wireless technology)6display latch release124 63 5
22 About Your ComputerUSB 2.0 CONNECTORS (2)HEADPHONE CONNECTOR —Attach headphones to the connector.MICROPHONE CONNECTOR —Attach a microphone to the connector for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.WIRELESS CONNECTION BUTTON —Puts the computer into "discover" mode to connect the wireless keyboard and mouse with the system using Bluetooth wireless technology if the pairing is lost. For more information, see "Pairing the Keyboard" on page 29 and "Pairing the Mouse" on page 31. DISPLAY LATCH RELEASE —Slide these latches forward to open your display. Right ViewConnects USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. 1display latch release2IEEE 1394 connector (firewire)3media memory card reader4compact flash card reader5ExpressCard Slot1 2 3 4 5
About Your Computer 23IEEE 1394 CONNECTOR (FIREWIRE)—Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras, hard drives, and CD drives.MEDIA MEMORY CARD READER —Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card. The media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory cards:• Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO• MultiMediaCard (MMC)• Memory Stick (MS)• Memory Stick Pro • xD-Picture Card With a commonly available adapter, the memory card reader also reads the following digital media memory cards: • MiniSD•RSMMC• Memory Stick Duo• Memory Stick Pro DuoCOMPACT FLASH CARD READER —Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card. The media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory cards:• Compact Flash Type I• Compact Flash Type II• MicrodriveEXPRESSCARD SLOT —Supports 34- and 54-mm PCI ExpressCards or USB-based ExpressCards. See "Using Cards" on page 83. NOTE: PCMCIA cards will not work in the ExpressCard slot.
24 About Your ComputerBack View 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.MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45) NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network connector.1modem connector (RJ-11)2network connector (RJ-45)3digital-video interface (DVI-I) connector4S-video TV-out connector5USB 2.0 connectors (2) 6audio/IR blaster adapter connector7AC adapter connector8air vents (3)If you ordered the optional internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector.For information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer. See "Finding Information" on page 13.Connects the computer to a network. The two lights next to the connector indicate status and activity for wired network connections.For information on using the network adapter, see the online network adapter documentation supplied with your computer.1 2 3 4 65 78
About Your Computer 25DIGITAL-VIDEO INTERFACE (DVI-I) CONNECTORS-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTORAUDIO/IR BLASTER ADAPTER CONNECTORAC ADAPTER CONNECTOR —Connects 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. 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.Connects an external DVI-compatible monitor or a High Definition TV. With an adapter cable, you can also connect an external VGA-compatible monitor to the DVI connector.Connects your computer to a TV through this analog video out port. An adapter can be used for composite and component video out. See "Using Your Computer With a TV or Audio Device" on page 45. Connects the following devices: • multi-channel analog audio I/O to connect 7.1 speakers or 5.1 speakers with line input, microphones, MP3 players, tape decks, etc. • digital S/PDIF output (TOSLINK optical connection) to connect home theater receivers, minidisk players, or high-end digital decoding 5.1 speakers• IR blaster outputs are used by Windows Media Center Edition to control external consumer electronic devices, such as satellite/cable boxes, VCRs, etc. For details, see "Connecting Audio/IR Blaster Adapter" on page 47.
26 About Your Computer 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. When you wrap the AC adapter cable, ensure that you follow the angle of the connector on the AC adapter to avoid damaging the cable.AIR VENTS (3) — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. There are three sets of air vents on the back of the computer. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.Bottom View1memory module cover2battery3battery charge gauge4battery latch release5subwoofer cover6fan air vents651423
About Your Computer 27MEMORY MODULE COVER —Covers the compartment that contains the secondary memory module. See "Memory" on page 133.BATTERY —When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. See "Using a Battery" on page 57.BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE —Identifies the amount of charge remaining in the battery. See "Charge Gauge" on page 62. BATTERY LATCH RELEASE —Releases the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 57 for instructions.SUBWOOFER COVER —Covers the compartment that contains the subwoofer. FAN AIR VENTS —The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the fan air vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.
28 About Your Computer
Using the Keyboard and Mouse 29Using the Keyboard and MouseYour computer comes with a detachable wireless keyboard and a wireless mouse with Bluetooth® wireless technology. Before you use your computer for the first time, both the keyboard and the mouse must be paired with your computer. See "Pairing the Keyboard" on page 29 and "Pairing the Mouse" on page 31. NOTICE: Do not attempt to move the computer with the keyboard attached and the display open or the keyboard will fall away from the computer base. To detach the keyboard, grasp the sides of the keyboard and pull it straight out and away from the computer base. The keyboard must be awake to recognize keystrokes. Ensure the keyboard is awake by touching the touchpad. Pairing the KeyboardBefore using your wireless keyboard for the first time, you must pair it with the computer so that the computer recognizes the keyboard. If the computer and keyboard become unpaired and the computer fails to recognize the keyboard, you can repair them.
30 Using the Keyboard and MouseKeyboard Pairing FailedIf your keyboard fails to connect, follow these steps: 1Press the power button to restart the computer and wait about three minutes for the operating system to load and the computer to initialize the drivers. 2Press the wireless connection button on the left side of the computer base and hold until the Bluetooth light on the system flashes.3Press the wireless connection button on the back of the keyboard and hold for about four seconds to put the keyboard into "discover" mode. The Caps lock, Scroll, and Num lock wireless Bluetooth lights on the keyboard will be solid blue. Release the wireless connection button on the keyboard and these lights will all start flashing. The computer may go through a series of beeps before the pairing occurs. 1wireless connection button on computer base1wireless connection button on keyboard11
Using the Keyboard and Mouse 314Test the pairing by touching the touchpad to move the cursor to ensure that pairing was successful. If pairing was unsuccessful, repeat these steps as necessary to pair your keyboard with your computer. Pairing the MouseThe Dell™ XPS™ M2010 Mouse Connection Wizard should launch the first time you turn on your computer. It will help you pair your mouse with your computer. Mouse Pairing With the WizardFollow the instructions on the screen: 1Insert two AA batteries, which are shipped uninstalled, into the mouse and replace the battery cover. 1batteries 2battery cover1 2
32 Using the Keyboard and Mouse2Power on the mouse by sliding the power switch on the bottom of the mouse to the On position. The optical sensor lights when the mouse is on. 3Press the wireless (Bluetooth) connection button on the bottom of the mouse. 4Click Next on the Wizard within 60 seconds to complete the pairing. The message Your mouse has been connected and is ready to use displays when the pairing is complete. 5If the mouse and computer failed to pair, turn the power switch off and back on again, then press the wireless (Bluetooth) connection button again.6Click Next on the Wizard to pair the mouse with the computer. Repeat these steps as necessary to pair your mouse with your computer. 1back button 2forward button 3wireless light4scroll wheel 5left mouse button 6right mouse button7power switch 8wireless (Bluetooth) connection button9optical sensor432156879
Using the Keyboard and Mouse 33Mouse Pairing FailedIf for some reason the Wizard does not launch, or the Wizard repeatedly fails to pair your mouse with the computer: 1Power on the mouse by sliding the switch on the bottom of the mouse to the On position. 2Press the wireless (Bluetooth) connection button on the left side of the computer base to put the computer into "discover" mode. The wireless (Bluetooth) light on the system will blink.3Press the wireless (Bluetooth) connection button on the bottom of the mouse to put the mouse into "discover" mode. The blue wireless light on the mouse will blink, and the connection will be made to pair the computer with the mouse. The total time to complete mouse pairing is less than 20 seconds. After completing the pairing, the blue wireless light on the mouse will stop blinking and continue to light for 2 to 3 seconds, and then go out. Numeric KeypadThe numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. • To enable the keypad, press <Num Lk>. The light indicates that the keypad is active.• To disable the keypad, press <Num Lk> again. 1numeric keypad19
34 Using the Keyboard and MouseKey CombinationsSystem FunctionsBatteryDisplay FunctionsWireless Networking Technology FunctionDisplay SwitchPower Management<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Task Manager window.<Fn><F3> Displays the Dell QuickSet Battery Meter (see "Dell QuickSet Battery Meter" on page 62).<Fn><F2> Enables and disables wireless 802.11 networking technology. It does not disable the Bluetooth wireless technology. NOTE: This feature can be disabled by the BIOS setup program. <Fn><F8> Allows you to switch the currently active display from the LCD to a connected CRT or external monitor, projector, or TV. To select a display, press and hold <Fn> and press <F8> until the desired display is highlighted, then release. <Fn><Esc> 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.<Fn><F1> Puts the system into hibernate mode. Dell QuickSet is required. See "Dell QuickSet" on page 139.
Using the Keyboard and Mouse 35Microsoft Windows Logo Key FunctionsTo 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 Microsoft® Windows® Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 15.Touch PadThe 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.Windows logo key and <m>Minimizes all open windows.Windows logo key and <Shift><m>Restores all minimized windows. This key combination functions as a toggle to restore minimized windows following the use of the Windows logo key and <m> key combination. Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer.Windows logo key and <r> Opens the Run dialog box.Windows logo key and <f> Opens the Search Results dialog box.Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f>Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if the computer is connected to a network).Windows logo key and <Pause>Opens the System Properties dialog box.
36 Using the Keyboard and Mouse• 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.• The touch pad has scrolling capability in the scroll zone on the right side of the touch pad. Scrolling is enabled by default. To disable this feature, modify the mouse properties through the Control Panel. NOTE: The scroll zones may not work with all application programs. For the scroll zones to function properly, the application program must be able to use the touch-pad scroll feature.Customizing the Touch Pad and MouseYou can use the Mouse Properties window to adjust settings for both the mouse and touch pad.1Open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click Mouse. 2In the Mouse Properties window, clicking the adjustment settings for the mouse will also adjust the touch pad settings. 3Click OK to save the settings and close the window.1touch pad 2scroll zone 3 touch pad buttons123
Using the Keyboard and Mouse 37Keyboard Battery The wireless keyboard is powered by a rechargeable lithium ion battery. The keyboard battery will recharge when the keyboard is affixed to the computer base and the base is running on AC power. The keyboard battery does not charge when it is detached from the computer base, even if the computer is running on AC power. The keyboard battery indicator light on the keyboard will glow blue when the keyboard is attached to the computer base and drawing power from the computer only when the computer is connected to AC power. When the keyboard is detached from the computer base, the indicator does not light unless the rechargeable keyboard battery has less than 15% charge remaining. In this case, the indicator will light orange to alert you to the low battery, and you should attach the keyboard to the base to allow the keyboard battery to recharge. If the keyboard battery fails, the keyboard power indicator will flash orange. Dell QuickSet Battery MeterIf Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter window. The Battery Status tab displays the charge status for the battery in your keyboard, as well as the primary computer battery. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.Replacing the Keyboard Battery CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.To remove the keyboard battery: 1Turn the keyboard over. 2Remove the captive screw at the top of the keyboard battery.3Slide the battery forward and out of the keyboard.
38 Using the Keyboard and MouseTo replace the keyboard battery, follow the removal instructions in reverse. 1keyboard 2captive screw 3keyboard battery213
Using Multimedia 39Using MultimediaPlaying CDs or DVDs NOTICE: Do not press down on the DVD drive when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. Do not block the drive from opening fully. NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing CDs or DVDs.To play a CD or DVD: 1Press the eject button on the media button panel in front of the DVD drive. The drive will raise up exposing the slot. 2Holding the disc by its outside edges, carefully insert the disc into the slot with the label side facing up.3Carefully push the disc into the drive until the drive takes up the disc. The drive will retract itself. To remove the disc from the drive: 1Press the eject button on the media button panel in front of the DVD drive. The drive will raise up and eject the disc.
40 Using Multimedia2Remove the disc. NOTICE: Do not manually push the drive down. 3Push the eject button to retract the drive. If you wait 30 seconds, the drive will retract itself.To format discs for storing data, to create music discs, or to copy discs, see the software that came with your computer.The media player includes the following basic buttons to control CD and DVD playback:
Using Multimedia 41Adjusting the Volume NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.In addition to using the media control buttons to adjust the volume, you can also adjust the volume in the following way: 1Click Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment→ Volume Control. 2Click and drag the bar in the Volume Control column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.For additional volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either click the icon in the taskbar and select or deselect Disable On Screen Volume Meter, or press the volume control buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.Press to open or close the DVD drive. If media is present in the closed drive, pressing this button will open the drive and eject the media. Press once to go back to the start of the current playing track/chapter. Press multiple times to skip back to previous track/chapters. Press and hold to rewind within the current track/chapter.Press to stop the CD or DVD. Press once to skip forward one track/chapter. Press multiple times to skip forward multiple tracks/chapters. Press and hold to fast-forward within the current track/chapter. Press once to skip forward one track/chapter. Press multiple times to skip forward multiple tracks/chapters. Press and hold to fast-forward within the current track/chapter. Press to turn off the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers.Press to decrease the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers. Press to increase the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers.
42 Using MultimediaFor more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.Adjusting the PictureIf 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.1Click Start→ Control Panel→ Display→ Settings. 2Under Screen resolution, click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution setting.3In the drop-down menu under Color quality, click Medium (16 bit)→ OK.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 DVD+/-RW 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 using Roxio Creator Plus - Dell Edition. You can also use Roxio Creator Plus for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Roxio Creator Plus, and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.How to Copy a CD or DVDThe DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM media. NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus.1Click Start→ All Programs→ Roxio→ Creator Projects, and click RecordNow Copy.2On the Copy tab, click Disc Copy.1volume icon 2Volume Meter 3mute icon132
Using Multimedia 433To 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 DVDsDVD-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 DrivesDVD-Writable DrivesMedia Type Read Write RewritableCD-R Yes Yes NoCD-RW Yes Yes YesMedia Type Read Write RewritableCD-R Yes Yes NoCD-RW Yes Yes YesDVD+R Yes Yes NoDVD-R Yes Yes NoDVD+RW Yes Yes YesDVD-RW Yes Yes YesDVD+R DL Yes Yes No
44 Using MultimediaHelpful Tips• Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Roxio Creator Plus and open a Creator 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 Roxio Creator Plus.• 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 Roxio website at www.sonic.com for additional information.Using Dell Media Experience and Dell MediaDirect NOTE: Changing or disabling the Dell QuickSet default settings can limit Dell MediaDirect™ functionality. For more information about Dell QuickSet, see "Dell QuickSet" on page 139.Press the Dell MediaDirect button, located next to the power button, to launch either Windows Media Center Manager or Dell MediaDirect. If the computer is turned on or in standby modeIf you press the Dell MediaDirect button while the computer is turned on or in standby mode, either Windows XP Media Center Manager or Dell Media Experience™ launches, depending on your system setup. If both applications are present, Windows XP Media Center Manager launches. NOTE: If both Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition and Dell Media Experience are installed on your computer, you must launch Dell Media Experience. Click Start→ All Programs or click the Media Experience icon on the desktop.DVD-R DL Yes No NoDVD-RAM Maybe No NoMedia Type Read Write Rewritable
Using Multimedia 45If the computer is turned off or in hibernate modeWhen your computer is turned off or in hibernate mode, you can press the Dell MediaDirect button to start the computer and automatically launch the Dell MediaDirect application. NOTE: You cannot reinstall the Dell Media Experience or Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive. You need the installation software to reinstall the media applications. Contact Dell for assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154. Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience HelpThe Dell media application on your computer provides help information. When you launch the media application, click on the desktop icon for additional help.Using Your Computer With a TV or Audio DeviceUse the adapters that came with your Dell computer to connect various electronic devices to your computer: • Composite video adapter• Component video adapter• Audio/IR Blaster adapter1Dell MediaDirect button1
46 Using MultimediaYour computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with a standard S-video cable, a composite video adapter cable, or a component video adapter cable, enables you to connect the computer to a TV. You want to use the best input that your display or TV will support. The best options are DVI and component. There are arguments for either one, depending on the exact display or TV type. If neither one of these connectors is supported, then S-Video or composite are the alternate options.The following section discusses the various adapters you received and possible configurations, depending on the device you want to connect. Connecting a Composite Video AdapterUse the composite video adapter to connect: • Standard definition TV•VCR•DVR1s-video TV-out connector 2composite video adapter21
Using Multimedia 47Connecting a Component Video AdapterUse the component video adapter to connect: • High definition TV • High definition DVR or DVD player NOTE: If your TV has a DVI-I connector, use the DVI-I connector instead of the component adapter. Connecting Audio/IR Blaster Adapter1s-video TV-out connector 2component video adapter1audio/IR blaster adapter 2audio connector2112
48 Using MultimediaThe audio/IR blaster adapter has the following ports: The IR blaster output ports are used by Windows Media Center to remotely control these external consumer electronics devices: • Satellite box• Cable box•VCRThe Digital S/PDIF output (TOSLINK optical connection) port is used to connect: • Home theatre receivers• Minidisk players• High-end digital decoding 5.1 speakers11IR blaster port black22IR blaster port black3S/PDIF digital S/PDIF port4 side L/R output connector gray5 center/sub output connector orange6 rear L/R output connector black7 front L/R output connector lime green1234567
Using Multimedia 49The multi-channel analog audio I/O ports are used to connect: •7.1 speakers • 5.1 speakers with line input• Monaural/stereo microphones• External audio sources• MP3 players• Tape decks NOTE: Some video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio device may not be included with your computer. Cables and TV/digital audio adapter cables are available for purchase from Dell.Enabling S/PDIF Digital AudioYou can enable digital audio for DVD playback on your computer.1Click Start, point to All Programs, and click PowerDVD to launch the Cyberlink PowerDVD application.2Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.3Click the Settings option.4Click the DVD option.5Click the DVD Audio Setting icon.6Click the arrows beside the Speaker Configuration setting to scroll through the options, and select the SPDIF option.7Click the Back button once, and then click the Back button again to return to the main menu screen.Enabling S/PDIF in the Windows Audio Driver1Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area.2Click the Options menu and then click Advanced Controls.3Click Advanced.4Click S/PDIF Interface.5Click Close.6Click OK.
50 Using MultimediaSetting 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.1Click Start, point to All Programs, and click PowerDVD to launch the Cyberlink PowerDVD program.2Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.3Click the Settings option.4Click the DVD option.5Click the DVD Audio Setting icon.6Click the arrows beside the Speaker Configuration setting to scroll through the options, and select the Headphones option.7Click the arrows beside the Audio listening mode setting to scroll through the options, and select the CL Headphone option.8Click the arrows beside the Dynamic range compression option to select the most suitable option.9Click 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 NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the computer before you enable the display settings.1Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.2Double-click Display and click the Settings tab. 3Click Advanced.4Click the tab for your video card. NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, click Start → Help and Support. Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems. Then, under My Computer Information, select Hardware. 5In 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.
Using the Display 51Using the DisplayOpening the Display Panel1Slide the two display latch releases, one on each side of the back of the display panel, toward the front of the computer to release the four display latches. Two latches are holding the display panel to the computer base and two latches are holding the display panel to the keyboard. 2Raise the display panel to open the computer. As you raise the display panel, the four latches will retract into the display panel. NOTE: If the system battery is drained and there is no power source, the latches will not retract. Closing the Display Panel1Before closing the display panel, ensure that the keyboard is firmly secured against the computer base.2Slowly lower the display panel toward the computer base. As you lower the display panel, the four display latches will emerge from the display panel to secure the display to the computer base and keyboard. NOTE: If the system battery is drained and there is no power source, the latches will not automatically emerge, but you can manually activate them by sliding the display latch release buttons forward. 1display latch release (2) 2display latch (4)21
52 Using the Display3Firmly close the lid so all four latches are engaged. NOTICE: Ensure that all four latches are engaged securely before picking up the computer to move it or the keyboard could fall and be damaged. Adjusting the Display PanelThe display on your computer is adjustable, so you can find a viewing angle that is comfortable for you. NOTICE: Do not position the display so that it blocks the DVD drive from opening completely. Adjusting BrightnessWhen a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard. NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors or projectors that you attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter may appear, but the brightness level on the external device does not change.You can press the following keys to adjust display brightness:• Press <Fn> and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).• Press <Fn> and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
Using the Display 53Switching the Video ImageWhen 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 <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously. Highlight your display choice and the display is selected when you release the keys. Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image may appear blurry or text may be hard to read. Before you change any of the display settings, make a note of the current settings for future reference.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. NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with your Dell-installed operating system.If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values.1Click Start→ Control Panel→ Display.2In the Display Properties window, click the Settings tab.3Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution. NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen.If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode. In pan mode, the entire screen cannot be displayed at one time. For example, the taskbar that usually appears at the bottom of the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the rest of the screen, use the touch pad to pan up, down, left, and right. NOTICE: You can damage an external monitor by using an unsupported refresh rate. Before adjusting the refresh rate on an external monitor, see the user’s guide for the monitor.Dual Independent Display ModeYou can attach an external monitor or projector to your computer and use it as an extension of your display (known as "dual independent display" or "extended desktop" mode). This mode allows you to use both screens independently and drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.1Connect the external monitor, TV, or projector to the computer.2Click Start→ Control Panel→ Display.3In the Display Properties window, click the Settings tab.
54 Using the Display NOTE: If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values. For more information, see your operating system documentation.4Click the monitor 2 icon, click the Extend my Windows desktop... check box, and then click Apply.5Change Screen Area to the appropriate sizes for both displays and click Apply.6If prompted to restart the computer, click Apply the new color setting without restarting and clickOK.7If prompted, click OK to resize your desktop. 8If prompted, click Yes to keep the settings.9Click OK to close the Display Properties window.To disable dual independent display mode:1Click the Settings tab in the Display Properties window.2Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the Extend my Windows desktop... option, and then click Apply.If necessary, press <Fn><F8> to bring the screen image back to the computer display.Swapping Primary and Secondary DisplaysTo swap your primary and secondary display designations (for example, to use your external monitor as your primary display):1Click Start→ Control Panel→ Display.2Click the Settings tab→ Advanced→ Identify. See the documentation that came with your video card for additional information.
Using the Display 55Using the CameraYour computer has a camera integrated into the display panel. The camera allows you to take photos and videos and to communicate visually with other computer users. The tilt of the camera is manually adjustable. For more information, see "Specifications" on page 141. Setting Up the CameraTo set up your camera, see the printed camera Setup Guide that shipped with your computer. For additional information on using your camera, see the camera Help file. Accessing HelpTo access the camera Help file:1Click Start→ All Programs→ Logitech→ Logitech QuickCam. 2Then click QuickCapture→ Help. You can also access Help from the Logitech Video icon in the system tray. Click the icon and select Help from the menu.
56 Using the DisplayTaking a Picture or Recording a VideoTo take a picture: 1Click the Logitech Video icon in the system tray. 2Select QuickCapture from the menu. The QuickCapture window displays and the blue LED on the camera turns on. You are able to view yourself on the camera through the QuickCapture window.3To take a picture, click TakeaPicture. To record a video, click RecordaVideo. 4Your picture or video will be saved by default in the My Pictures folder of My Documents unless you change the settings. 5For more information, see the Logitech Video Help. See "Accessing Help" on page 55.
Using a Battery 57Using a BatteryReplacing the 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. CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet and the computer, disconnect the modem from the wall connector and computer, and remove any other external cables from the computer. NOTICE: You must remove all external cables from the computer to avoid possible connector damage. NOTE: The Service Tag label is located inside the battery compartment of your computer. Inserting the Battery1Ensure the keyboard is securely attached and the display is closed and latched before turning the computer over. See "Closing the Display Panel" on page 51. Then place the computer upside down on a clean flat surface.2Push the latch release button (#1) on the battery to open the battery access door. 3Insert the battery straight down into the battery compartment with the battery access door in the open position.
58 Using a Battery4Slide the battery in the direction of the #1 arrow until it snaps into place.5Close the battery access door by pushing it down with your finger.
Using a Battery 59Removing the Battery1Ensure that the computer is turned off.2Slide the battery latch release on the bottom of the computer in the direction of the #1 arrow. The battery access door will pop up. 1battery access door1
60 Using a Battery3Using your thumbs, slide the battery in the direction of the #2 arrow by inserting one thumb into the recess next to the battery access door and the other thumb into the indention surrounding the #2 arrow.4Lift the battery straight up and out of the computer. Battery Performance 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. One battery is supplied as standard equipment. 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, go to Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance→ Power Options→ Power Meter.
Using a Battery 61Battery 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. NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD.Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:• Using optical drives• Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, ExpressCards, media memory cards, or USB devices• Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as complex 3D graphics applications• Running the computer in maximum performance mode. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 65 for information about accessing Windows Power Options Properties or Dell QuickSet, which you can use to configure power management settings.You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer. See "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 61 and "Inserting the Battery" on page 57. You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 65. 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 lithium-ion 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 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage. Checking the Battery ChargeThe Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter window and icon, the battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge. The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter also provides information on the keyboard battery charge status.
62 Using a BatteryDell QuickSet Battery MeterIf Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter window. The Battery Meter displays the status, battery health, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.Microsoft Windows Power MeterThe Microsoft Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar. If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears.Charge GaugeBy either pressing once or pressing and holding the status button on the charge gauge on the battery, you can check:• Battery charge (check by pressing and releasing the status button)• Battery health (check by pressing and holding the status button)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. That is, a battery can show a status of "charged" but maintain a reduced charge capacity (health). Check the Battery ChargeTo check the battery charge, press and release 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.Check the Battery Health NOTE: You can check battery health in one of two ways: by using the charge gauge on the battery as described below and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.To check the battery health using the charge gauge, 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 "Battery" on page 144 for more information about the battery operating time.
Using a Battery 63Low-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. The computer enters hibernate mode when the battery charge is at a critically low level.You can change the settings for the battery alarms in QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 65 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.Charging the Battery NOTE: When the computer is turned off, the AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery to 80 percent in about 90 minutes. Full battery charge time will be longer. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer for 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 blue 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 106.Conserving Battery PowerPerform the following actions to conserve 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. See "Power Management Modes" on page 64.• Use the Power Management Wizard or the Power Options Properties window 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 <Fn><Esc>. NOTE: See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 65 for information on conserving battery power.
64 Using a BatteryStoring a BatteryRemove the computer 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. See "Charging the Battery" on page 63.Power Management ModesThe power indicator LED indicates the power state of the computer. The Dell badge on the back of the display panel indicates the power state of the computer when the computer is used in closed-lid operation. Standby ModeStandby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a predetermined period of inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby mode. NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby mode, it may lose data.To enter standby mode:• Click the Start button, click Turn off computer, and then click Stand by.or• Depending on how you set the power management options in the Power Options Properties window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, use one of the following methods:– Press the power button.– Close the display.– Press <Fn><Esc>.To exit standby mode, press the power button or open the display, depending on how you set the power management options. You can only make the computer exit standby mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad if this option has been enabled. First you must enable USB Wake Support under Power Management in System Setup. Then right click the Bluetooth icon in the system tray, click Options, Power State Power LEDNormal operating state Blue solid lightLow power state Blue light blinking slowlyStandby mode Blue light blinking slowlyHibernate mode OffMechanically off (no AC power) Off
Using a Battery 65select the Other tab, and select HID Profile Wakeup Setting to select the devices to wake from standby. To wake from standby, the computer must also be connected to AC power. For more information, see "System Setup Screens" on page 114.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, and then click Hibernate.or• Depending on how you set the power management options in the Power Options Properties window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:– Press the power button.– Close the display.– Press <Fn><F1>. NOTE: Some PC Cards or ExpressCards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove and reinsert the card (see "Removing a Card" on page 85), or simply restart (reboot) your computer.To exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit hibernate mode. You cannot make the computer exit hibernate mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad. For more information on hibernate mode, see the documentation that came with your operating system.Configuring Power Management SettingsYou can use the QuickSet Power Management Wizard or Windows Power Options Properties to configure the power management settings on your computer.• For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.• To access the Power Options Properties window, click the Start button, point to Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance, and then click Power Options. For information on any field in the Power Options Properties window, click the question mark icon on the title bar and then click on the area where you need information.
66 Using a Battery
Setting Up Your Computer 67Setting Up Your ComputerConnecting 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 ConnectionTo set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut:1Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.2Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.3Follow 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:1Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.2Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer.The New Connection Wizard appears.3Click Connect to the Internet.
68 Setting Up Your Computer4In the next window, click the appropriate option:• If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose from a list of Internet service providers (ISPs).• If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click Set up my connection manually.• If you have a CD, click Use the CD I got from an ISP.5Click 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.6Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then click Next.7Use 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 96. 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 ComputerThe 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 removable media, such as a writable CD, for transfer to the new computer. NOTE: For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, go to support.microsoft.com and search for Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #293118, titled How to Use Files and Settings Transfer Wizard 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.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.
Setting Up Your Computer 69Prepare the New Computer for the File Transfer1Start the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard by clicking Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.2When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.3On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next.4On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD and click Next.5When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do not click Next at this time.Copy Data From the Old Computer1On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System CD.2On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks.3Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings.4On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.5On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next.6On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.7On 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.8Click Finish.Transfer Data to the New Computer1On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.2On 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.3Click Finished and restart the new computer.Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CDTo run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the optional Operating System CD, you must create a wizard disk that lets you create a backup of your data files. Create the wizard disk on removable media so that you can move it from your new computer to your old computer.
70 Setting Up Your ComputerCreate a Wizard Disk1Start the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard by clicking Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.2When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.3On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next.4On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following drive: and click Next.5Insert the removable media, such as a writable CD, and click OK.6When the disk creation completes and the Now go to your old computer message appears, do not click Next.7Go to the old computer.Copy Data From the Old Computer1On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.2Click the Start button and click Run.3In the Open field on the Run window, browse to the path for fastwiz (on the appropriate removable media) and click OK.4On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.5On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next.6On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.7On 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.8Click Finish.Transfer Data to the New Computer1On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.2On 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.3Click Finished and restart the new computer. NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search support.dell.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 CD?). NOTE: Access to the Dell Knowledge Base document may not be available in certain countries.
Setting Up Your Computer 71Setting 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 CableYour printer connects to your computer with a USB 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. Connecting a USB Printer NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.1Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.2Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.
72 Setting Up Your Computer 3Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel.4Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.Power Protection DevicesSeveral devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures:• Surge protectors• Line conditioners• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)Surge ProtectorsSurge 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.1USB connector on computer2USB printer cable 3connector on printer213
Setting Up Your Computer 73 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).
74 Setting Up Your Computer
Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) 75Using Networks (LAN or Wireless)Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband ModemBefore 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:1Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer. NOTE: Insert the cable connector until it clicks into place, and then gently pull the cable to ensure that it is securely attached.2Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device or a network wall connector. NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall connector.Network Setup WizardThe 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.1Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications, and then click Network Setup Wizard.2On the welcome screen, click Next.3Click Checklist for creating a network.
76 Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2).4Complete the checklist.5Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)A WLAN is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each computer. In a WLAN, a radio communications device called an access point or wireless router connects network computers and provides Internet, or network, access. The access point or wireless router and the wireless network card in the computer communicate by broadcasting data from their antennas over the air waves.What You Need to Establish a WLAN ConnectionBefore you can set up a WLAN, you need:• High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL)• A broadband modem that is connected and working• A wireless router or access point• A wireless network card for each computer that you want to connect to your WLAN• A network cable with the network (RJ-45) connector Checking Your Wireless Network CardDepending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To confirm that your computer has a wireless network card and to determine the type of card, use one of the following:• The Start button and the Connect To option• The order confirmation for your computerStart Button and Connect To Option1Click the Start button.2Point to Connect To, and then click Show all connections.If Wireless Network Connection does not appear under LAN or High-Speed Internet, you may not have a wireless network card.
Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) 77If Wireless Network Connection appears, you have a wireless network card. To view detailed information about the wireless network card:1Right-click Wireless Network Connection. 2Click Properties. The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears. The wireless network card’s name and model number are listed on the General tab. NOTE: If your computer is set to the Classic Start menu option, you can view network connections by clicking the Start button, pointing to Settings, and then pointing to Network Connections. If Wireless Network Connection does not appear, you may not have a wireless network card. The Order Confirmation for Your ComputerThe order confirmation that you received when you ordered your computer lists the hardware and software that shipped with your computer.Setting Up a New WLANConnecting a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem1Contact your Internet service provider (ISP) to obtain specific information about the connection requirements for your broadband modem.2Ensure that you have wired Internet access through your broadband modem before you attempt to set up a wireless Internet connection. See "Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem" on page 75.3Install any software required for your wireless router. Your wireless router may have been shipped with an installation CD. Installation CDs usually contain installation and troubleshooting information. Install the required software according to the instructions provided by the router manufacturer. 4Shut down your computer and any other wireless-enabled computers in the vicinity through the Start menu. 5Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.6Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem. NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before you continue with the network setup.7Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that there is no power connected to the router.8Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered broadband modem.9Connect the other end of the network cable into the Internet network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered wireless router.10Ensure that no network or USB cables, other than the network cable connecting the modem and the wireless router, are connected to the broadband modem. NOTE: Restart your wireless equipment in the order described below to prevent a potential connection failure.
78 Using Networks (LAN or Wireless)11Tu r n o n only your broadband modem and wait for at least 2 minutes for the broadband modem to stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to step 12.12Turn on your wireless router and wait for at least 2 minutes for the wireless router to stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to the step 13.13Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.14See the documentation that came with your wireless router to do the following in order to set up the wireless router:• Establish communication between your computer and your wireless router.• Configure your wireless router to communicate with your broadband router.• Find out your wireless router’s broadcast name. The technical term for the name of your router’s broadcast name is Service Set Identifier (SSID) or network name.15If necessary, configure your wireless network card to connect to the wireless network. See "Connecting to a WLAN" on page 78.Connecting to a WLAN NOTE: Before you connect to a WLAN, ensure that you have followed the instructions in "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 76. NOTE: The following networking instructions do not apply to internal cards with Bluetooth® wireless technology or cellular products.This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network via wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary. See "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 76 for more information about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN. Your wireless network card requires specific software and drivers for connecting to a network. The software is already installed. NOTE: If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions in the user documentation for your wireless network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on page 76.Determining the Wireless Network Device ManagerDepending on the software installed on your computer, different wireless configuration utilities may manage your network devices:• Your wireless network card’s client utility• The Microsoft Windows XP operating system
Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) 79To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network card:1Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.2Double-click Network Connections.3Right-click the Wireless Network Connection icon, and then click View Available Wireless Networks.If the Choose a wireless network window states Windows cannot configure this connection, the wireless network card’s client utility is managing the wireless network card.If the Choose a wireless network window states Click an item in the list below to connect to a wireless network in range or to get more information, the Windows XP operating system is managing the wireless network card.For specific information about the wireless configuration utility installed on your computer, see your wireless network documentation in the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center:1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.2Under Pick a Help topic, click Dell User and System Guides.3Under Device Guides, select the documentation for your wireless network card.Completing the Connection to the WLANWhen you turn on your computer and a network (for which your computer is not configured) is detected in the area, a pop-up appears near the network icon in the notification area (in the lower-right corner of the Windows desktop). Follow the instructions provided in any utility prompts that appear on your screen.Once you have configured your computer for the wireless network that you selected, another pop-up notifies you that your computer is connected to that network. Thereafter, whenever you log on to your computer within the range of the wireless network that you selected, the same pop-up notifies you of the wireless network connection. NOTE: If you select a secure network, you must enter a WEP or WPA key when prompted. Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information. NOTE: Your computer can take up to one minute to connect to the network. Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card NOTE: If you are unable to connect to a wireless network, ensure that you have all the components for establishing a WLAN (see "What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection" on page 76), and then verify that your wireless network card is enabled by pressing <Fn><F2>. You can turn your computer’s wireless networking function on and off by pressing the <Fn><F2> key combination.
80 Using Networks (LAN or Wireless)Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSetThe wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. Right-click the Dell QuickSet icon in your taskbar to select or deselect Wireless Activity Indicator Off to turn the wireless activity indicator on or off. The wireless activity indicator displays whether your computer’s integrated wireless devices are enabled or disabled. When you turn the wireless networking function on or off, the wireless activity indicator changes to display the status. For more information about the wireless activity indicator, see the Dell QuickSet Help file. For information about QuickSet and how to access the Dell QuickSet Help file, see "Dell QuickSet" on page 139.Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)Much like a WLAN, a Mobile Broadband network (also known as a WWAN) is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other through wireless technology. However, a Mobile Broadband network uses cellular technology and therefore provides Internet access in the same varied locations from which cellular telephone service is available. Your computer can maintain the Mobile Broadband network connection regardless of its physical location, as long as the computer remains in the service area of your cellular service provider.What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection NOTE: You can use a Mobile Broadband ExpressCard to establish a Mobile Broadband network connection.To set up a Mobile Broadband network connection, you need: • A Mobile Broadband ExpressCard. For instructions on using ExpressCards, see "Supported Cards" on page 83. • The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility (already installed on your computer if you purchased the card when you purchased your computer, or on the CD that accompanied your card if purchased separately from your computer)If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide for instructions. The user’s guide is available through the Windows Help and Support Center (or on the CD that accompanied your card if you purchased it separately from your computer). To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 15.Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband CardDepending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To determine your computer configuration, see one of the following:• Your order confirmation• Microsoft Windows Help and Support Center
Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) 81To check your Mobile Broadband card in the Help and Support Center:1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.2Under Pick a task, click Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems.3Under Tools, click My Computer Information and then click Find information about the hardware installed on this computer.On the My Computer Information - Hardware screen, you can view the type of Mobile Broadband card installed in your computer as well as other hardware components. NOTE: The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems.Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mobile Broadband ExpressCards. They do not apply to internal cards with Bluetooth wireless technology. NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate Mobile Broadband service through your cellular service provider. For instructions and for additional information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide available through the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13. The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and on the CD included with your Mobile Broadband card if you purchased the card separately from your computer.Use the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility to establish and manage a Mobile Broadband network connection to the Internet:1Click the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon in the Windows taskbar to run the utility.2Click Connect. NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button. 3Follow the instructions on the screen to manage the network connection with the utility.OR1Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Dell Wireless. 2Click Dell Wireless Broadband and follow the instructions on the screen.Windows FirewallThe Windows Firewall provides basic protection from unauthorized access to the computer while the computer is connected to the Internet. The firewall is automatically enabled when you run the Network Setup Wizard. When the firewall is enabled for a network connection, the firewall icon appears with a red background in the Network Connections section of the Control Panel. Note that enabling the Windows Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking software.For more information, see the Help and Support Center for the Microsoft Windows XP operating system. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 15.
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Using Cards 83Using CardsSupported CardsYour computer has two slots for memory storage media that provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card, and one slot for an ExpressCard for WWAN support. Cards are available for purchase from Dell. NOTE: Your computer does not support PC cards. For more information, see "Specifications" on page 141.Media Memory Card ReaderThe media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory cards:• Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO• MultiMediaCard (MMC)• Memory Stick (MS)• Memory Stick Pro • xD-Picture Card With a commonly available adapter, the memory card reader also reads the following digital media memory cards: • MiniSD•RSMCC• Memory Stick Duo• Memory Stick Pro DuoCompact Flash Card ReaderThe compact flash card reader reads the following digital media memory cards:• Compact Flash Type I• Compact Flash Type II• Microdrive
84 Using CardsExpressCard Reader NOTE: PCMCIA cards will not work in the ExpressCard reader. The ExpressCard slot has one connector that supports both 34-mm and 54-mm ExpressCards. For more information on WWAN support with the ExpressCard, see "Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)" on page 80. Extended CardsAn extended card is longer than a standard card and extends outside the computer. Follow these precautions when using extended cards:• Protect the exposed end of an installed card. Striking the end of the card can damage the system board.• Always remove an extended card before you pack the computer in its carrying case. Installing a Media Memory Card or ExpressCardYou can install a media memory card or ExpressCard in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card.Cards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) to indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.11394 connector 2media memory card slot 3compact flash card slot4ExpressCard slot1234
Using Cards 85To insert a card: 1Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the slot and the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need to be in the "in" position before you insert the card.2Slide 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. Removing a Card NOTICE: 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. Do not attempt to eject a card by pulling its cable, if one is attached.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.
86 Using Cards
Securing Your Computer 87Securing Your Computer NOTE: For information on how to secure your computer while traveling, see "Traveling With Your Computer" on page 121.Security Cable Lock NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock.A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell™ computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device. NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot on your computer.Passwords NOTE: Passwords are disabled when you receive your computer.A primary password and an administrator password prevent unauthorized access to your computer in different ways. The following table identifies types and features of passwords available on your computer.
88 Securing Your Computer NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer. However, they are not foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as smart cards, data encryption programs, or PC Cards with encryption features. If you forget any of your passwords, contact your system administrator or contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154. For your protection, Dell support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.Using a Primary/System PasswordThe primary (system) password allows you to protect the computer from unauthorized access.Access User Accounts from the Control Panel to create user accounts and add or change passwords. After assigning a primary password, you must enter it each time you turn on your computer. If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state. NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also disabled.If you have assigned an administrator password, you can use it instead of the primary password. The computer does not specifically prompt you for the administrator password.Using an Administrator PasswordThe administrator password is designed to give system administrators or service technicians access to computers for repair or reconfiguration. The administrators or technicians can assign identical administrator passwords to groups of computers, allowing you to assign a unique primary password.To set or change administrator passwords, access User Accounts from the Control Panel.When you set an administrator password, the Configure Setup option becomes available in system setup. The Configure Setup option allows you to restrict access to system setup in the same way that a primary password restricts access to the computer.The administrator password can be used instead of the primary password. Whenever you are prompted to enter the primary password, you can enter the administrator password. NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also disabled.If you forget the primary password and do not have an administrator password assigned, or if you have both a primary and an administrator password assigned but forget them both, contact your system administrator or contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.Type of Password FeaturesPrimary/System• Protects the computer from unauthorized accessAdministrator• Gives system administrators or service technicians access to computers for repair or reconfiguration• Allows you to restrict access to system setup in the same way a primary password restricts access to the computer• Can be used instead of the primary password
Securing Your Computer 89Computer Tracking SoftwareComputer tracking software may enable you to locate your computer if it is lost or stolen. The software is optional and may be purchased when you order your Dell computer, or you can contact your Dell sales representative for information about this security feature. NOTE: Computer tracking software may not be available in certain countries. NOTE: If you have computer tracking software and your computer is lost or stolen, you must contact the company that provides the tracking service to report the missing computer.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. Your Service Tag is in the battery compartment of your computer (see "Removing the Battery" on page 59). 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 the missing computer.
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Troubleshooting 91TroubleshootingDell Technical Update ServiceThe Dell™ Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications.To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.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 DiagnosticsIf you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 102 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin. NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.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 DriveThe 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 154.1Shut down the computer. 2Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.3Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:aTurn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press <Enter>. NOTE: The keyboard must be awake to recognize the keystroke. Ensure the keyboard is awake by touching the touchpad.
92 TroubleshootingIf 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.bPress and hold the <Fn> key while powering the computer 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.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 <Esc>; to continue to the next test, press <y>; to retest the component that failed, press <r>. • If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s) and contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you receive the message: Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue.4Press 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 CD1Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.2Shut down and restart the computer.When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately. NOTE: The keyboard must be awake to recognize the keystroke. Ensure the keyboard is awake by touching the touchpad. 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.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 system setup.3When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive and press <Enter>.4Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears and press <Enter>.5Ty p e 1 to start the menu and press <Enter> to proceed.6Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer.7When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run.
Troubleshooting 93Dell Diagnostics Main Menu1After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want.2If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154. 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.3If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab described in the following table for more information.Option FunctionExpress 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 one 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.Tab FunctionResults 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.
94 Troubleshooting4When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities CD, remove the CD.5When 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.Dell Support UtilityThe Dell Support Utility is installed on your computer and available from the Dell Support icon on the taskbar or from the Start button. Use this support utility for self-support information, software updates, and health scans of your computing environment.Accessing the Dell Support UtilityAccess the Dell Support Utility from the Dell Support icon on the taskbar or from the Start menu.If the Dell Support icon does not appear in your taskbar:1Click the Start button and point to Programs.2Click Dell Support and point to Dell Support Settings.3Ensure that the Show icon on the taskbar option is checked. NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to support.dell.com and download the software. The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment.The Dell Support icon in the taskbar functions differently when you click, double-click, or right-click the icon.Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from system setup, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names of all the components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test settings.Tab Function
Troubleshooting 95Clicking the Dell Support IconClick or right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:• Check your computing environment • View the Dell Support Utility settings• Access the help file for the Dell Support Utility• View frequently asked questions• Learn more about the Dell Support Utility• Turn the Dell Support Utility offDouble-Clicking the Dell Support IconDouble-click the icon to manually check your computing environment, view frequently asked questions, access the help file for the Dell Support Utility, and view Dell Support settings.For more information about the Dell Support Utility, click the question mark (?) at the top of the Dell Support screen.Drive Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks. See "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153.ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE —Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the DVD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.TEST THE DRIVE —Insert another CD or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.CLEAN THE DISK —See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 173.CANNOT READ OR PLAY DISC —If the disc is dirty, clean it with a non-abrasive cloth from the disc center hole to the outside. If the disc is scratched and warped, do not insert it into the drive. If the disc is inserted upside down, remove and reinsert in the proper direction. CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONSCHECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES —See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 126.RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS —See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.DVD drive problems NOTE: High-speed DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.
96 Troubleshooting NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.DISK WILL NOT EJECT —Press the eject button again. If problem continues, restart the system. Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW driveCLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS —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.TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC —See "Standby Mode" on page 64 or search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center for information on power management modes. CHANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE —See the help files for your CD or DVD creation software.ENSURE THAT THE DISC IS LOADED IN THE DRIVE WITH THE LABEL FACING UP —See "Playing CDs or DVDs" on page 39 for proper insertion instructions. VERIFY THE TYPE OF DISC BEING USED —CD-R, DVD+R, and DVD-R discs cannot be rewritten.ENSURE THAT THERE IS ENOUGH FREE SPACE ON THE WRITABLE DISC —Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity. The drive needs 1–2 MB of the blank space to finalize the recording. 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 problemsALLOW THE COMPUTER TO COOL BEFORE TURNING IT ON —A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.RUN CHECK DISK —1Click the Start button and click My Computer. 2Right-click Local Disk C:.3Click Properties.4Click the Tools tab.5Under Error-checking, click Check Now.6Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors.7Click Start.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.
Troubleshooting 97CHECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS —If you cannot open your e-mail attachments:1In Outlook Express, click Tools, click Options, and then click Security.2Click Do not allow attachments to remove the checkmark.CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTIONCHECK THE TELEPHONE JACKCONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACKUSE 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.RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS —Click the Start button, point to All Programs and then click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.2Click Phone and Modem Options.3Click the Modems tab.4Click the COM port for your modem.5Click 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.ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET —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.SCAN THE COMPUTER FOR SPYWARE —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.
98 TroubleshootingError MessagesFill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks. See "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153. 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.AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE —The touch pad or external mouse may be faulty. For an external mouse, see "Using the Keyboard and Mouse" on page 29. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program. If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME —Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces in the proper place, and used the correct pathname.CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE —The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed. Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE —The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer. See "Dell Support Utility" on page 94.DATA ERROR —The hard drive cannot read the data. See "Dell Support Utility" on page 94.DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY —One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Memory" on page 133.DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION —The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.EXTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS CHANGED —The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not match the memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION DRIVE —The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk, or the disk is too full. Try copying the file to a different disk or use a larger capacity disk.A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in filenames.GATE A20 FAILURE —A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Memory" on page 133.GENERAL FAILURE —The operating system is unable to carry out the command. The message is usually followed by specific information—for example, Printer out of paper. Take the appropriate action.HARD-DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION ERROR —The computer cannot identify the drive type. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.HARD-DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0—The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.
Troubleshooting 99HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE —The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE —The hard drive may be defective. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA —The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable CD. Insert a bootable CD.INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-PLEASE RUN SYS T E M SETUP PROGRAM —The system configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate options in the system setup program. See "System Setup Program" on page 113.KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE —Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE —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 "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.KEYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE —Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.KEYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE —Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the Stuck Key test in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.LICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN MEDIADIRECT —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 103.MEMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE —A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Memory" on page 133.MEMORY ALLOCATION ERROR —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.MEMORY DATA LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE —A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 133) and, if necessary, replace them.MEMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE —A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 133) and, if necessary, replace them.MEMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE —A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 133) and, if necessary, replace them.MEMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE —A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 133) and, if necessary, replace them.
100 TroubleshootingNO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE —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.NO BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE —The operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT —A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN —You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use.OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND —Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM —The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND —The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. Remove and then reinstall the program.1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.2Click Add or Remove Programs.3Select the program you want to remove.4Click Remove or Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen.5See the program documentation for installation instructions.SECTOR NOT FOUND —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 Help and Support Center for instructions. If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the hard drive.SEEK ERROR —The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard drive. SHUTDOWN FAILURE —A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER —System configuration settings are corrupted. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to restore the data by entering the system setup program. Then immediately exit the program. If the message reappears, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED —The reserve battery that supports the system configuration settings may require replacing. See "Coin-Cell Battery" on page 138.TIME-OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYS T E M SETUP PROGRAM —The time or date stored in the system setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date and Time options. See "System Setup Program" on page 113.TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED —A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.
Troubleshooting 101UNEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED MODE —The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or a memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY —Insert a disk into the drive and try again.WARNING: BATTERY IS CRITICALLY LOW —The battery is running out of charge. Replace the battery, or connect the computer to an electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate hibernate mode or shut down the computer.IEEE 1394 Device Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.2Click System to open the System Properties window.3Click the Hardware tab, then click Device Manager.If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED IEEE 1394 DEVICE —IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 154) or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer.ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS PROPERLY INSERTED INTO THE CONNECTORKeyboard Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153) as you perform the various checks. NOTE: Use the wireless keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the wireless keyboard remains fully functional.Keyboard problemsCOMPUTER BASE DOES NOT RECOGNIZE WIRELESS KEYBOARD —See "Pairing the Keyboard" on page 29.RUN THE KEYBOARD DIAGNOSTICS TESTS —Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91. If the tests indicate a defective keyboard, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.
102 TroubleshootingUnexpected charactersDISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD —Press <Num Lk> 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 upENSURE THAT THE AC ADAPTER IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET.The computer stops responding NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.TURN THE COMPUTER OFF —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 respondingA program crashes repeatedly NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a CD.END THE PROGRAM —1Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.2Click Applications.3Click the program that is no longer responding.4Click End Task.CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION —If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating systemRUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.1Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories, and then click Program Compatibility Wizard.2In the welcome screen, click Next.3Follow the instructions on the screen.
Troubleshooting 103A solid blue screen appearsTURN THE COMPUTER OFF —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 problemsCHECK THE DELL MEDIADIRECT HELP FILE FOR INFORMATION —Click the question mark icon at the bottom of the Dell MediaDirect screen to access Help. TO PLAY MOVIES WITH DELL MEDIADIRECT, YOU MUST HAVE A DVD DRIVE AND THE DELL DVD PLAYER —If you purchased a DVD drive with your computer, this software should already be installed. VIDEO QUALITY PROBLEMS —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. CANNOT PLAY SOME MEDIA FILES —Because Dell MediaDirect provides access to media files outside the Windows XP operating system 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 operating system environment. ADJUSTING THE COLOR SETTINGS FOR MOVIES THAT CONTAIN SCENES THAT ARE TOO DARK OR TOO BRIGHT —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 reformat the hard drive. Contact Dell for assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154. Other software problemsCHECK 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.
104 TroubleshootingBACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY.USE A VIRUS-SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE, FLOPPY DISKS, OR CDS.SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER THROUGH THE Start MENU.SCAN THE COMPUTER FOR SPYWARE —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.RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS —See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91. If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a software problem.Memory ProblemsFill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153) as you complete these checks. 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 133.• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory. See "Memory" on page 133.• Run the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 133) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines. See "Memory" on page 133.• Run the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.Mouse ProblemsCOMPUTER BASE DOES NOT RECOGNIZE WIRELESS MOUSE —See "Pairing the Mouse" on page 31.
Troubleshooting 105Network ProblemsFill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153 as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.GeneralCHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR —Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network connector.CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR —No light indicates that no network communication exists. Replace the network cable.RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN.CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS —Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning. Mobile Broadband Network NOTE: The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide is located under Help and Support. You can also download the user’s guide from support.dell.com. NOTE: The icon appears in the notification area if the computer has a Dell Mobile Broadband card installed. Double-click the icon to launch the utility.CANNOT CONNECT —The Dell Mobile Broadband card must be activated on the network in order to connect. Position the mouse over the icon in the notification area to read the status of the connection. If the status indicates the mobile broadband card is not activated, see "Activate your Mobile Broadband card" on page 106 for more information. If problems persist, contact your Mobile Broadband service carrier for details on your plan.CHECK YOUR MOBILE BROADBAND NETWORK SERVICE —Contact your Mobile Broadband service carrier to verify coverage plan and supported services.CHECK THE STATUS IN THE DELL MOBILE BROADBAND CARD UTILITY —Click the icon in the taskbar to launch the utility. Check the status in the main window:•No card detected – Restart the computer and launch the utility again. •Radio Off – Ensure the Mobile Broadband card is enabled by viewing the status in the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility. If the card is disabled, enable the Mobile Broadband card by clicking the Tu rn Radio On button in the main screen of the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility.•Searching – The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility has not yet located a Mobile Broadband network. If the searching state persists, ensure that the signal strength is adequate.•No service – The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility did not locate a Mobile Broadband network. Ensure that the signal strength is adequate. Restart the Dell wireless utility or contact your Mobile Broadband network provider.
106 Troubleshooting•Check your WWAN service – Contact your Mobile Broadband network service provider to verify coverage plan and supported services.ACTIVATE YOUR MOBILE BROADBAND CARD —Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate the Mobile Broadband service through your cellular service provider. For instructions and for additional information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide available through the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 15. The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and on the CD included with your Mobile Broadband card if you purchased the card separately from your computer.Media Memory Card or ExpressCard Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: The ExpressCard slot does not support PC cards. CHECK THE CARD —Ensure that the card is properly inserted into the connector.ENSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED CARD —Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A CARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —Contact the card manufacturer.Power ProblemsFill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153) as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.CHECK THE POWER LIGHT —When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit standby mode. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer.CHARGE THE BATTERY —The battery charge may be depleted.1Reinstall the battery.2Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.3Turn on the computer. 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.CHECK THE BATTERY STATUS LIGHT —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.
Troubleshooting 107If the battery status light flashes blue 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 154.CHECK THE BATTERY TEMPERATURE —If the battery temperature is below 0° C (32° F), the computer will not start up.TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET —Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.CHECK THE AC ADAPTER —Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on.CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET —Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE —Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances.ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES —See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 65.RESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES —If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, reinstall the memory modules. See "Memory" on page 133.Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your ComputerYour computer is designed to use a 150-W AC adapter. For optimum system performance, you should always use a 150-W adapter.Using less-powerful AC adapters will cause you to receive a WARNING message.Printer ProblemsFill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153) as you complete these checks. 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.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.TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET —Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
108 TroubleshootingVERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —1Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Faxes.If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.2Click 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.REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER —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.CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION —See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.UNLOCK THE SCANNER —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.VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS —1Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Scanners and Cameras.If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER —See the scanner documentation for instructions.Sound and Speaker ProblemsFill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153) as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.No sound from integrated speakersADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.
Troubleshooting 109ADJUST THE VOLUME USING KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS —Press <Fn><End> to disable (mute) or reenable the integrated speakers.REINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER —See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 124.No sound from external speakersENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON —See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR —Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET —Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE —Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.REINSTALL THE AUDIO DRIVER —See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 124. RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS —See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91. 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 headphonesCHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION —Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector.ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.Touch Pad or Mouse ProblemsCHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —1Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Mouse.2Try adjusting the settings.CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse directly to the computer.TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE, CHECK THE TOUCH PAD —1Shut down the computer.2Disconnect the mouse.
110 Troubleshooting3Turn on the computer. 4At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it.If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.CHECK THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM SETTINGS —Verify that the system setup program lists the correct device for the pointing device option. (The computer automatically recognizes a USB mouse without making any setting adjustments.)TEST THE MOUSE CONTROLLER —To test the mouse controller (which affects pointer movement) and the operation of the touch pad or mouse buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91.REINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER —See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 124.Video and Display ProblemsFill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91) as you complete these checks. 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.CHECK THE BATTERY —If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET —Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.CHECK THE AC ADAPTER —Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on.CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET —Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES —Search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center.SWITCH THE VIDEO IMAGE —If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image to the display.If the display is difficult to readADJUST THE BRIGHTNESS —Press <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key.MOVE THE EXTERNAL SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR —If your external speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.
Troubleshooting 111ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE —Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances.ROTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION —Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality.ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —1Click the Start button and then click Control Panel.2Double-click Display, then click the Settings tab.3Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.RUN THE VIDEO DIAGNOSTICS TESTS —If no error message appears and you still have a display problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the Dell Diagnostics. Then contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154.SEE "ERROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see "Error Messages" on page 98.If only part of the display is readableCONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —1Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.2Turn 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 154.
112 Troubleshooting
System Setup Program 113System Setup ProgramOverview NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in system setup, thus overriding options that you set through system setup. (An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through system setup.) For more information on configuring features for your operating system, see the Help and Support Center. See "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 15.You can use system setup as follows:• To set or change user-selectable features—for example, your computer password• To verify information about the computer's current configuration, such as the amount of system memoryAfter you set up the computer, run system setup to familiarize yourself with your system configuration information and optional settings. You may want to write down the information for future reference.The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer, such as:• System configuration• Boot order• Boot (start-up) configuration and docking-device configuration settings• Basic device-configuration settings• System security 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 settings. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly. Viewing the System Setup Screens1Turn on (or restart) your computer.2When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately. NOTE: The keyboard must be awake to recognize the keystroke. Ensure the keyboard is awake by touching the touchpad. If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
114 System Setup ProgramSystem Setup Screens NOTE: For information about a specific item on a system setup screen, highlight the item and see the Help area on the screen.In System Setup, primary categories of settings are listed on the left. To view the types of settings in a category, highlight the category and press <Enter>. When you highlight a setting type, the right side of the screen displays the value for that setting type. You can change settings that appear as white type on the screen. Values that you cannot change (because they are determined by the computer) appear less bright.System-setup key functions are listed across the bottom of the screen.Commonly Used SettingsCertain settings require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect.Changing the Boot SequenceThe boot sequence 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 Sequence page, which is located in the System category. NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a One-Time Boot" on page 115.The Boot Sequence page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your computer, including but not limited to the following:• Modular bay HDD• Internal HDD• CD/DVD/CD-RW driveDuring 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 appear as white and display a small triangle to the left; disabled items appear blue or dimmed without a triangle.• To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and then press <u> or <d> (not case-sensitive) to move the highlighted device up or down.Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit system setup.
System Setup Program 115Performing a One-Time BootYou can set a one-time-only boot sequence without entering system setup. (You can also use this procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.)1Shut down the computer through the Start menu.2Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.3Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately. NOTE: The keyboard must be awake to recognize the keystroke. Ensure the keyboard is awake by touching the touchpad. 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.4When the boot device list appears, highlight the device from which you want to boot and press <Enter>.The computer boots to the selected device.The next time you reboot the computer, the previous boot order is restored.About Your RAID ConfigurationThis section provides an overview of the RAID configuration that you might have selected when you purchased your computer. Although several RAID configurations are available, Dell offers either a RAID level 0 configuration or a RAID level 1 configuration for the Dell™ XPS™ M2010 computer. A RAID level 0 configuration is recommended for high-performance gaming, and a RAID level 1 configuration is recommended for the data integrity requirements of digital photography and audio.The Intel® RAID controller on your computer can only create a RAID level 0 configuration using two physical drives. NOTE: RAID levels do not represent a hierarchy. A RAID level 1 configuration is not inherently better or worse than a RAID level 0 configuration.RAID Level 0 ConfigurationA RAID level 0 configuration uses a storage technique known as "data striping" to provide a high data access rate. Data striping is a method of writing consecutive segments, or stripes, of data sequentially across the physical drives to create a large virtual drive. Data striping allows one of the drives to read data while the other drive is searching for and reading the next block.
116 System Setup ProgramAnother advantage of a RAID level 0 configuration is that it utilizes the full capacities of the drives. For example, if you have two 120-GB drives installed, you have 240 GB on which to store data. NOTICE: Because RAID level 0 configurations provide no data redundancy, if one drive fails, then the data on the other drive is also inaccessible. Therefore, ensure that you perform regular backups when you use a RAID level 0 configuration.RAID Level 1 ConfigurationRAID level 1 uses a data-redundancy storage technique known as "mirroring." When data is written to the primary drive, it is then duplicated, or mirrored, on the other drive. A RAID level 1 configuration sacrifices high data-access rates for its data redundancy advantages.hard drive 1segment 1segment 3segment 5hard drive 2segment 2segment 4segment 6serial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 0
System Setup Program 117If a drive failure occurs, subsequent read and write operations are directed to the surviving drive. A replacement drive can then be rebuilt using the data from the surviving drive. Also, because data is duplicated on both drives, a RAID level 1 configuration using two 120-GB hard drives collectively has a maximum of 120 GB on which to store data.Configuring Your Computer for RAIDAt some point you may want to configure your computer for RAID if you did not select a RAID configuration when you purchased your computer. You must have at least two hard drives installed in your computer to set up a RAID configuration. NOTE: Your computer was configured with RAID On as the default, whether or not you ordered RAID. You can use one of two methods to configure RAID hard drive volumes. One method uses the Intel RAID Option ROM utility and is performed before you install the operating system onto the hard drive. The second method uses the Intel Matrix Storage Manager, or Intel Matrix Storage Console, and this method is performed after you have installed the operating system and the Intel Matrix Storage Console. Both methods require that you set your computer to RAID-enabled mode before starting any of the RAID configuration procedures in this document.Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode1Enter system setup (see page 113).2Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Onboard Devices, and press <Enter>.3Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight SATA Operation, and press <Enter>.hard drive 1segment 1segment 2segment 3hard drive 2segment 4segment 5segment 6segment 1 duplicatedsegment 2 duplicatedsegment 3 duplicatedsegment 4 duplicatedsegment 5 duplicatedsegment 6 duplicatedserial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 1
118 System Setup Program4Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight RAID On, and press <Enter>.5If the setting was changed from RAID Autodetect/ATA to RAID On, a pop-up window displays. If the pop-up window displays, press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight Yes, and press <Enter>. If the setting didn’t change, the pop-up window will not display. Go on to step 6. 6Press <Esc>. NOTE: For more information about RAID options, see "System Setup Screens" on page 114.7Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight Save/Exit, and press <Enter> to exit system setup and resume the boot process.Configuring for RAID Using the Intel RAID Option ROM Utility NOTE: Although any size drives may be used to create a RAID configuration using the Intel RAID Option ROM utility, ideally the drives should be of equal size. In a RAID level 0 configuration, the size of the configuration will be the size of the smallest drive multiplied by the number (two) of drives in the configuration. In a RAID level 1 configuration, the size of the configuration will be the smaller of the two drives used. If you want to migrate existing data, see "Configuring for RAID Using the Intel Matrix Storage Manager" on page 119. Creating a RAID Level 0 or a RAID Level 1 Configuration NOTICE: You will lose any data on your hard drives when you create a RAID configuration using the following procedure. Back up data you want to keep before continuing. NOTE: Use the following procedure only if you are reinstalling your operating system. Do not use the following procedure to migrate an existing storage configuration to RAID level 0 configuration.1Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 117).2Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.3Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Create RAID Volume, and press <Enter>.4Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default, and press <Enter>.5For RAID 0, press the up- and down-arrow keys to select RAID0(Stripe), and press <Enter>.For RAID 1, press the up- and down-arrow keys to select RAID1(Mirror), and press <Enter>.6Press the up- and down-arrow keys and spacebar to select the two or three drives you want to use to make up your configuration, and then press <Enter>. NOTE: For RAID 0, select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to store on the RAID volume. If you do not know the average file size, choose 128 KB as your strip size.7For RAID 0, press the up- and down-arrow keys to change the strip size, and press <Enter>.For RAID 1, skip to step 8. 8Select the desired capacity for the volume, and press <Enter>. The default value is the maximum available size.9Press <Enter> to create the volume.10Press <y> to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.
System Setup Program 11911Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main Intel RAID Option ROM utility screen.12Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select Exit, and press <Enter>.13Install the operating system.Deleting a RAID Volume NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost. NOTE: For RAID 0 only, if your computer currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume in the Intel RAID Option ROM utility, your computer will become unbootable.1Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.2Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Delete RAID Volume, and press <Enter>.3Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the RAID volume you want to delete, and press <Delete>.4Press <y> to confirm the deletion of the RAID volume.5Press <Esc> to exit the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.Configuring for RAID Using the Intel Matrix Storage ManagerIf you already have one hard drive with the operating system installed on it, and you want to add a second hard drive and reconfigure both drives into a RAID volume without losing the existing operating system and any data, you need to use the migrating option (see "Migrating to a RAID Level 0 or a RAID Level 1 Configuration" on page 119). Deleting a RAID Volume NOTE: While this procedure deletes the RAID 1 volume, it also splits the RAID 1 volume into two non-RAID hard drives with a partition, and leaves any existing data files intact. 1Click the Start button and point to All Programs→ Intel Matrix Storage Manager → Intel Matrix Storage Console to launch the Intel Storage Console.2Right-click the Volume icon of the RAID volume you want to delete, and select Delete Volume.3On the Delete RAID Volume Wizard screen, click Next.4Highlight the RAID volume you want to delete in the Available box, click the right-arrow button to move the highlighted RAID volume into the Selected box, and then click Next.5Click Finish to delete the volume.Migrating to a RAID Level 0 or a RAID Level 1 Configuration1Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 117).2Click the Start button and point to All Programs→ Intel Matrix Storage Manager → Intel Matrix Storage Console to launch the Intel Storage Console.
120 System Setup Program NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 117).3On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard Drive to launch the Migration Wizard.4Click Next on the Migration Wizard screen.5Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default.6For RAID 0, select RAID 0 as the RAID level from the drop-down box.For RAID 1, select RAID 1 as the RAID level from the drop-down box. NOTE: Select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to store on the RAID volume. If you do not know the average file size, choose 128 KB as your strip size.7For RAID 0, select the appropriate strip size from the drop-down box, and then click Next.For RAID 1, skip to step 8. NOTE: Select the hard drive that you want to use as your source hard drive (it should be the hard drive containing the data or operating system files that you want to keep on the RAID volume).8On the Select Source Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive from which you want to migrate, and click Next.9On the Select Member Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive to select the member drive to span the array and click Next.10For RAID 0, on the Specify Volume Size screen, select the Volume Size you want, and click Next.For RAID 1, skip to step 11. NOTE: In the following step, you will lose all data contained on the member drive.11Click Finish to start migrating, or click Back to make changes. You can use your computer normally during the migration process.Rebuilding a Degraded RAID Level 1 ConfigurationIf your computer has reported a degraded RAID level 1 volume, contact Dell about replacing your hard drive. See "Contacting Dell" on page 154. You can manually rebuild the computer’s redundancy mirror to a new hard drive by performing the following steps:1Click the Start button and point to All Programs→ Intel Matrix Storage Manager → Intel Matrix Storage Console to launch the Intel Storage Console.2Right-click the available hard drive to which you want to rebuild the RAID level 1 volume, and click Rebuild to this Disk.You can use your computer while the computer is rebuilding the RAID level 1 volume.
Traveling With Your Computer 121Traveling With Your ComputerIdentifying 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, which is located in the battery compartment of your computer (see "Removing the Battery" on page 59), if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell. See "If Your Computer is Lost or Stolen" on page 89.• 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. • Fully charge the main battery and any spare batteries that you plan to carry with you.• 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 one 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.
122 Traveling With Your ComputerTravel Tips NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive to prevent loss of data. NOTE: Check with your airline when planning a trip. Due to the physical dimensions of your computer, it may not qualify as carry-on luggage. If your computer does not qualify as carry-on luggage, purchase a hard-sided travel case commonly available for shipping fragile electronics to enable you to check the computer as baggage. • Consider disabling wireless activity on your computer to maximize battery operating time. To disable wireless activity, press<Fn><F2>.• Consider changing your power management options to maximize battery operating time. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 65.• If you are traveling 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. CAUTION: Use On Aircraft: Regulations of the FCC and FAA prohibit airborne operation of radio-frequency wireless devices because their signals could interfere with critical aircraft instruments.• Ensure that you have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn on the computer.• Some airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during flight. All airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during takeoff and landing.
Reinstalling Software 123Reinstalling SoftwareDriversWhat 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. 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 DriversIf you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.2Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.3Click System.4In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.5Click Device Manager.6Scroll 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 124.
124 Reinstalling SoftwareReinstalling 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 RollbackIf 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.1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.2Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.3Click System.4In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.5Click Device Manager.6Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties.7Click the Drivers tab.8Click 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. See "Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 126.Using the Drivers and Utilities CDIf using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD).1With the Windows desktop displayed, insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.If this is your first time to use the Drivers and Utilities CD, go to step 2. If not, go to step 5.2When the Drivers and Utilities CD installation program starts, follow the prompts on the screen.3When the InstallShield Wizard Complete window appears, remove the Drivers and Utilities CD and click Finish to restart the computer.4When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the Drivers and Utilities CD.5At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next. NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD displays drivers only for hardware that came installed in your computer. If you installed additional hardware, the drivers for the new hardware might not be displayed by the Drivers and Utilities CD. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the Drivers and Utilities CD program. For drivers information, see the documentation that came with the device.A message stating that the Drivers and Utilities CD is detecting hardware in your computer appears.
Reinstalling Software 125The drivers that are used by your computer are automatically displayed in the My Drivers—The ResourceCD has identified these components in your system window. 6Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on the screen. If a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is not required by your operating system.1Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2Insert 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.3From the Language drop-down menu in the toolbar, select your preferred language for the driver or utility (if available). A welcome screen appears.4Click Next. The CD automatically scans your hardware to detect drivers and utilities used by your computer.5After 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.6Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or utility that you want to install.7Click 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.Manually Reinstalling Drivers 1After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous section, click the Start button and right-click My Computer.2Click Properties.3Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.4Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example, Modems or Infrared devices).5Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
126 Reinstalling Software6Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.7Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click Next.8Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files.9When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.10Click Finish and restart your computer.Resolving Software and Hardware IncompatibilitiesIf 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.1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.2Ty p e hardware troubleshooter in the Search field and click the arrow to start the search.3Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.4In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer, and click Next.Restoring Your Operating SystemYou 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.• 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 RestoreThe 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 the Windows Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 15. 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.
Reinstalling Software 127Creating a Restore Point1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.2Click the task for System Restore.3Follow the instructions on the screen.Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating StateIf problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 124) 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.1Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools, and then click System Restore.2Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected and click Next.3Click 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. 4Select 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.5Click Next.The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the computer restarts.6After 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.1Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools, and then click System Restore.2Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
128 Reinstalling SoftwareEnabling System RestoreIf 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:1Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2Click Performance and Maintenance.3Click System.4Click the System Restore tab.5Ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.Using the Operating System CDBefore You BeginIf 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 "Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback" on page 124. 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 126. NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:• 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, including the drivers required if your computer has a RAID controller. Depending on the region from where you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the CDs, the Drivers and Utilities CD and Operating System CD may not ship with your system.Reinstalling Windows XPThe reinstallation process can take one to two 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.1Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.2Insert the Operating System CD. Click Exit if the Install Windows XP message appears.3Restart the computer.
Reinstalling Software 1294Press <F2> 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.5Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
130 Reinstalling Software
Adding and Replacing Parts 131Adding and Replacing PartsBefore You BeginThis 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" on page 131 and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 131.• You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide.Recommended ToolsThe procedures in this document may require the following tools:• Small flat-blade screwdriver• Philips screwdriver• 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.1Shut down the operating system:aSave and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then click Turn Off Computer.bIn the Turn off computer window, click Turn o ff. The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.2Ensure 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 at least 8–10 seconds until the computer turns off.Before Working Inside Your ComputerUse the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help ensure your own personal safety.
132 Adding and Replacing Parts 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. 1Ensure the work surface is clean and flat to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.2Turn off your computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 131. NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.3Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer.4Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you service the computer. 5Remove the system battery. aEnsure the keyboard is securely attached and the display is closed and latched before turning the computer over. See "Closing the Display Panel" on page 51. Then place the computer upside down on the work surface. bSlide the battery-bay latch release lock on the bottom of the computer in the direction of the #1 arrow. The battery access door will pop up. 1battery access door1
Adding and Replacing Parts 133cUsing your thumbs, slide the battery in the direction of the #2 arrow by inserting one thumb into the recess next to the battery access door and the other thumb into the indention surrounding the #2.dLift the battery straight up and out of the computer.6Press the power button to ground the system board. 7Remove any installed ExpressCards or media memory cards. See "Removing a Card" on page 85.Memory You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See "Specifications" on page 141 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.
134 Adding and Replacing Parts NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin working inside the computer. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 57. The computer has two memory slots, DIMM A and DIMM B, located under the memory module cover. If you replace or upgrade the memory in your computer, both memory modules must be the same size. To install a memory module in DIMM A or DIMM B:1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 131. 2Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screw on the memory cover, and then remove the cover by sliding it toward the back of the computer to disengage the tabs on the base from the notches in the cover, then lifting the cover off.3Ground 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. NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory-module securing clips.4If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:aUse your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up. bRemove the module from the connector.1captive screw1
Adding and Replacing Parts 135 NOTICE: 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.5Ground yourself and install the new memory module:aAlign the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.bSlide 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.6Replace the memory cover by aligning the notches in the cover with the tabs on the base and sliding the cover toward the front of the computer, then tighten the screw. NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer.7Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet.8Turn 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.1securing clips (2 per connector)2memory module12
136 Adding and Replacing PartsMini PCI-e CardIf you ordered a wireless LAN (WLAN) 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. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching a connector on the back panel of the computer. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin working inside the computer. WLAN Cards1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 131. 2Remove the memory cover. See "Memory" on page 133. 3Ground 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. 4If a card is not already installed, go to step 5. If you are replacing a card, remove the existing card:aDisconnect the antenna cables from the card.1antenna cables1
Adding and Replacing Parts 137bRelease the card by pressing the metal securing tabs until the card pops up slightly.cLift the card out of its connector. NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors and realign the card.5Install the card: NOTICE: To avoid damaging the card, ensure that the antenna cable is not under the card when you click the card into place.aAlign the card with the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the card into the connector until it clicks.bConnect the antenna cable to the antenna connector on the mini-card by matching the color of the cable to the color of the triangle above the connector. Connect the main cable (white) to the antenna connector with the white triangle. Connect the auxiliary cable (black) to the antenna connector with the black triangle. NOTE: If your computer has a gray cable, connect it to the connector with the gray triangle, if one is available on your card. 6Replace the memory cover. See "Memory" on page 133.7Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet.8Turn on the computer.1Mini-PCI-e card 2metal securing tabs (2)12
138 Adding and Replacing PartsCoin-Cell Battery CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, follow the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching a connector on the back panel of the computer. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin working inside the computer.To remove the coin-cell battery:1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 131.2Remove the memory cover. See "Memory" on page 133.3Remove the battery from the compartment on the system board by using a small screwdriver to lift one side of the battery at the notch in the plastic connector, being careful not to break the plastic. 4Grasp the battery and pull out it of the battery compartment.To install the coin-cell battery:1Insert the edge of the coin-cell battery into the plastic battery compartment under the lip on the compartment. 2Carefully press the coin-cell battery into the compartment, being careful not to break the plastic. 1coin-cell battery 2battery compartment21
Dell QuickSet 139Dell QuickSet NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer.Dell™ QuickSet provides you with easy access to configure or view the following types of settings:• Network connectivity• Power management•Display• System informationDepending on what you want to do in Dell QuickSet, you can start it by either clicking, double-clicking, or right-clicking the QuickSet icon, , in the Microsoft® Windows® taskbar. The taskbar is located in the lower-right corner of your screen.For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon and select Help.
140 Dell QuickSet
Specifications 141SpecificationsProcessorProcessor type Intel® Core™ Duo processorL1 cache 64 KB (internal)L2 cache 2 MB (on die)External bus frequency 533 or 667 MHzSystem InformationSystem chipset Mobile Intel 945Data bus width 64 bitsDRAM bus width 64 bitsProcessor address bus width 36 bitsMemoryMemory module connector two user-accessible SODIMM socketsMemory module capacities 256, 512, 1024 MB; 2 GBMemory type dual channel 533/667 DDRII SDRAMMinimum memory 512 MBMaximum memory 4 GBPorts and ConnectorsAudio microphone-in connector, stereo headphones/speakers connectorIEEE 1394a 4-pin mini, nonpowered connectorModem RJ-11 portNetwork adapter RJ-45 portS-video TV-out 7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-video to composite video adapter cable; optional S-video to component video adapter cable)USB four 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors
142 SpecificationsDVI-I (Digital Video Interface) 24-pin connectorAudio/IR blaster connectorCommunicationsModem:Ty p ev.92 56K MDC ControllersoftmodemInterfaceIntel HDA busNetwork adapter 1 GB Ethernet LAN on system board Wireless internal WLAN and Bluetooth® wireless support, WWAN via ExpressCard, Graphics Controller ATI Radeon Mobility X1800Data bus PCI Express X16Video memory 256MB DDR3LCD interface LVDS TV support NTSC and PAL (s-video, composite, or component-out); HDTV (component-out or DVI with HDCP)AudioAudio type High Definition Audio (Soft Audio)Audio controller SigmaTel STAC9220Stereo conversion 24-bit (stereo digital-to-analog), 24-bit (stereo analog-to-digital)Interfaces:InternalHigh Definition Audio Bus (HDA)Externalmicrophone miniconnector, stereo headphones/speakers miniconnectorSpeaker Eight 4-ohm speakers (16 ohm total) in the displayOne 12-ohm subwoofer speaker in the basePorts and Connectors (continued)
Specifications 143Internal speaker amplifier 5-W/channel into 16 ohm in the display (10 W total)5-W/channel into 12 ohm subwoofer in the base (5 W total)15 W total system powerVolume controls Keyboard shortcuts or program menusDisplayType (active-matrix TFT) WSXGA+Dimensions:Height453.5 mm typ (17.85 inches) Width294.5 typ (11.59 inches)Diagonal511.1 typ (20.1 inches)Operating angle 0° (closed) to 180° Viewing angles:Horizontal85/85° Vertical85/85° Aspect ratio 16:10Pixel pitch 0.2588 mmSupports RGB the international standard of color reproduction8-bit color depth 16.7 M colorsSurface treatment Glare polarizerPower Consumption (panel with backlight)16.6 W (typ) Controls brightness can be controlled through keyboard shortcutsAudio (continued)
144 SpecificationsKeyboardWireless interface to system base with Bluetooth wireless technologyNumber of keys 100 (U.S.); 101 (Europe); 105 (Japan)Key travel:Regular keys3.0 mm ± 0.3 mm (0.12 inch ± 0.01 inch)Hot keys1.5 mm ± 0.2 mm (0.59 inch ± 0.01 inch)Touch pad buttons1.5 mm ± 0.2 mm(0.59 inch ± 0.01 inch)Key spacing 19.05 mm ± 0.3 mm (0.75 inch ± 0.012 inch) Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/KanjiTouch PadX/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) 1000 dpiSize:Width60.75-mm (2.39-inch) sensor-active area Height44.64-mm (1.60-inch) rectangle BatteryDual 6-cell lithium-ion battery pack2.6 Ahr cellsDimensions:Depth296.3 mm (11.67 inches) Height31.7 mm (1.25 inch) Width65.4 mm (2.57 inches) Weight 0.730 kg (1.61 lb) typicalVoltage 14.8 VDC Operating time varies depending on operating conditions and can be significantly reduced under certain power-intensive conditionsSee "Battery Performance" on page 60 for more information.Life span (approximate) 300 discharge/charge cycles
Specifications 145Temperature range:Operating0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) AC AdapterInput voltage 100–240 VACInput current (maximum) 2.5 AInput frequency 50–60 HzOutput current 7.7 AOutput power 150 WRated output voltage 19.5 VDCDimensions:Height40 mm (1.57 inches) Width85 mm (3.35 inches) Length170 mm (6.69 inches) Weight (with cables) 1 kg (2.2 lb) Temperature range:Operating0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)PhysicalHeight 75.3 mm (2.9 inches) Width 470 mm (18.5 inches) Depth 405.6 mm (15.9 inches) Weight approximately 18.1 lb depending upon configurationBattery (continued)
146 SpecificationsExpressCardNOTE: The ExpressCard slot is designed only for ExpressCards. It does NOT support PC Cards.ExpressCard connector one ExpressCard slot (54 mm)1.5 V and 3.3 VCards supported ExpressCard/34 (34 mm) and ExpressCard/54 (54 mm)ExpressCard connector size 26 pinsMedia Memory Card ReaderMedia memory card reader with two slots (13 in 2)Media memory card controller Ricoh R5C832 Media memory card connector combo card connector Cards supported MSMS DuoMS Duo ProSD/SDIOMiniSDMMCRSMMCxDCF Type I/II MicrodriveCameraType Logitech 1.3 MP Camera ModuleSensor type 1.3 megapixel CMOS with RightLight low light enhancement technologyVideo capture resolution Up to 640x480 pixels (VGA)Still image capture resolution True 1280x960 pixels (1.3 megapixels); up to 4 megapixels software-enhancedFrame rate Up to 30 frames per secondField of view 58 degrees (measured diagonally)Interface Internal USB 2.0 high-speedActivity light Blue LED to indicate video streamingManual tilt range -15 degrees down/+35 degrees up (vertical)Software Logitech QuickCam
Specifications 147EnvironmentalTemperature range:Operating0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)Storage–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)Relative humidity (maximum):Operating10% to 90% (noncondensing)Storage5% to 95% (noncondensing)Maximum vibration (using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates user environment):Operating0.66 GRMSStorage1.30 GRMSMaximum shock (measured with hard drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms half-sine pulse):Operating122 GStorage163 GAltitude (maximum):Operating–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)Storage–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)
148 Specifications
Obtaining Assistance 149Obtaining Assistance CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer covers, first disconnect the computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets.1Complete the procedures in "Troubleshooting" on page 91.2Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91).3Make a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153) and fill it out. Note that your Service Tag is located in the battery compartment of your computer (see "Removing the Battery" on page 59).4Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support (support.dell.com) for help with installation and troubleshooting procedures.5If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, contact Dell.NOTE: Call the support service from a telephone near or at the computer so that the support staff can assist you with any necessary procedures.NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder, double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.For instructions on using the support service, see "Support Service" on page 150.NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S. Call your local Dell representative for information on availability.Online ServicesYou can access Dell Support at support.dell.com. Select your region on the WELCOME TO DELL SUPPORT page, and fill in the requested details to access help tools and information. You can contact Dell electronically using the following addresses:• World Wide Webwww.dell.com/ www.dell.com/ap/ (Asian/Pacific countries only)www.dell.com/jp (Japan only)www.euro.dell.com (Europe only)
150 Obtaining Assistancewww.dell.com/la/ (Latin American countries)www.dell.ca (Canada only)• Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)ftp.dell.com/Log in as user anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.• Electronic Support Servicemobile_support@us.dell.comsupport@us.dell.com apsupport@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only)support.jp.dell.com (Japan only)support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)• Electronic Quote Serviceapmarketing@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only)sales_canada@dell.com (Canada only)AutoTech ServiceDell's automated support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and desktop computers.When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your questions.The AutoTech service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also access this service through the support service. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 154.Automated Order-Status ServiceTo check on the status of any Dell™ products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 154.Support ServiceDell's support service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to answer your questions about Dell hardware. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers.
Obtaining Assistance 151To contact Dell's support service, see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 149 and then call the number for your country as listed in "Contacting Dell" on page 154.Problems With Your OrderIf you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or packing slip handy when you call. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 154.Product InformationIf you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For the telephone number to call for your region or to speak to a sales specialist, see "Contacting Dell" on page 154.Returning Items for Warranty Repair or CreditPrepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:1Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box.For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 154.2Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.3Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153), indicating the tests that you have run and any error messages reported by the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 91).4Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (power cables, software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if the return is for credit.5Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing materials.You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted.Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at Dell's receiving dock and returned to you.
152 Obtaining AssistanceBefore You CallNOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently.Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 153). If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the computer itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is available. CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide.
Obtaining Assistance 153Diagnostics ChecklistName:Date:Address:Phone number:Service Tag (bar code located in the battery compartment):Express Service Code:Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):Operating system and version:Devices:Expansion cards:Are you connected to a network? Yes NoNetwork, version, and network adapter:Programs and versions:See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell.Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:
154 Obtaining AssistanceContacting DellTo contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:• www.dell.com•support.dell.com (support)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, support specific to Dell™ XPS™ 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 computers, you may contact Dell through the 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. NOTE: The contact information provided was deemed correct at the time that this document went to print and is subject to change.Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free NumbersAnguilla General Supporttoll-free: 800-335-0031Antigua and Barbuda General Support1-800-805-5924Argentina (Buenos Aires)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 54City Code: 11Website: www.dell.com.arE-mail: us_latin_services@dell.comE-mail for desktop and portable computers: la-techsupport@dell.com E-mail for servers and EMC® storage products:la_enterprise@dell.comCustomer Care toll-free: 0-800-444-0730Technical Supporttoll-free: 0-800-444-0733Technical Support Servicestoll-free: 0-800-444-0724Sales0-810-444-3355Aruba General Supporttoll-free: 800-1578Australia (Sydney)International Access Code: 0011Country Code: 61City Code: 2Website: support.ap.dell.comE-mail: support.ap.dell.com/contactusGeneral Support13DELL-133355
Obtaining Assistance 155Austria (Vienna)International Access Code: 900Country Code: 43City Code: 1Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.comHome/Small Business Sales0820 240 530 00Home/Small Business Fax0820 240 530 49Home/Small Business Customer Care0820 240 530 14Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care0820 240 530 16Support for XPS0820 240 530 81Home/Small Business Support for all other Dell computers0820 240 530 17Preferred Accounts/Corporate Support0660 8779Switchboard0820 240 530 00Bahamas General Supporttoll-free: 1-866-278-6818Barbados General Support1-800-534-3066Belgium (Brussels)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 32City Code: 2Website: support.euro.dell.comTech Support for XPS02 481 92 96Tech Support for all other Dell computers02 481 92 88Tech Support Fax02 481 92 95Customer Care02 713 15 65Corporate Sales02 481 91 00Fax02 481 92 99Switchboard02 481 91 00Bermuda General Support1-800-342-0671Bolivia General Supporttoll-free: 800-10-0238BrazilInternational Access Code: 00Country Code: 55City Code: 51Website: www.dell.com/brCustomer Support, Tech Support0800 90 3355Technical Support Fax 51 481 5470Customer Care Fax 51 481 5480Sales0800 90 3390British Virgin Islands General Supporttoll-free: 1-866-278-6820Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
156 Obtaining AssistanceBruneiCountry Code: 673Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia)604 633 4966Customer Care (Penang, Malaysia)604 633 4888Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia)604 633 4955Canada (North York, Ontario)International Access Code: 011Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatusAutoTech (automated Hardware and Warranty Support)toll-free: 1-800-247-9362Customer Service (Home Sales/Small Business)toll-free: 1-800-847-4096Customer Service (med./large business, government)toll-free: 1-800-326-9463Customer Service (printers, projectors, televisions, handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)toll-free: 1-800-847-4096Hardware Warranty Support (Home Sales/Small Business)toll-free: 1-800-906-3355Hardware Warranty Support (med./large bus., government)toll-free: 1-800-387-5757Hardware Warranty Support (printers, projectors, televisions, handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)1-877-335-5767Sales (Home Sales/Small Business)toll-free: 1-800-387-5752Sales (med./large bus., government)toll-free: 1-800-387-5755Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales1 866 440 3355Cayman Islands General Support1-800-805-7541Chile (Santiago)Country Code: 56City Code: 2Sales and Customer Supporttoll-free: 1230-020-4823Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
Obtaining Assistance 157China (Xiamen)Country Code: 86City Code: 592Technical Support website: support.dell.com.cnTechnical Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.comCustomer Care E-mail: customer_cn@dell.comTechnical Support Fax592 818 1350Technical Support (Dell™ Dimension™ and Inspiron)toll-free: 800 858 2968Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell Precision™)toll-free: 800 858 0950Technical Support (servers and storage)toll-free: 800 858 0960Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, switches, routers, and so on)toll-free: 800 858 2920Technical Support (printers)toll-free: 800 858 2311Customer Caretoll-free: 800 858 2060Customer Care Fax592 818 1308Home and Small Businesstoll-free: 800 858 2222Preferred Accounts Divisiontoll-free: 800 858 2557Large Corporate Accounts GCPtoll-free: 800 858 2055Large Corporate Accounts Key Accountstoll-free: 800 858 2628Large Corporate Accounts Northtoll-free: 800 858 2999Large Corporate Accounts North Government and Educationtoll-free: 800 858 2955Large Corporate Accounts East toll-free: 800 858 2020Large Corporate Accounts East Government and Educationtoll-free: 800 858 2669Large Corporate Accounts Queue Teamtoll-free: 800 858 2572Large Corporate Accounts Southtoll-free: 800 858 2355Large Corporate Accounts Westtoll-free: 800 858 2811Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts toll-free: 800 858 2621Colombia General Support980-9-15-3978Costa Rica General Support0800-012-0435Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
158 Obtaining AssistanceCzech Republic (Prague)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 420Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: czech_dell@dell.comTechnical Support22537 2727Customer Care22537 2707Fax22537 2714Technical Fax22537 2728Switchboard22537 2711Denmark (Copenhagen)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 45 Website: support.euro.dell.comTechnical Support for XPS7010 0074Technical Support for all other Dell computers7023 0182Customer Care (Relational)7023 0184Home/Small Business Customer Care3287 5505Switchboard (Relational)3287 1200Switchboard Fax (Relational)3287 1201Switchboard (Home/Small Business)3287 5000Switchboard Fax (Home/Small Business)3287 5001Dominica General Supporttoll-free: 1-866-278-6821Dominican Republic General Support1-800-148-0530Ecuador General Supporttoll-free: 999-119El Salvador General Support01-899-753-0777Finland (Helsinki)International Access Code: 990Country Code: 358City Code: 9Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: fi_support@dell.comTechnical Support0207 533 555Customer Care0207 533 538Switchboard0207 533 533Sales under 500 employees0207 533 540Fax0207 533 530Sales over 500 employees0207 533 533Fax0207 533 530Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
Obtaining Assistance 159France (Paris) (Montpellier)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 33City Codes: (1) (4)Website: support.euro.dell.comHome and Small BusinessTechnical Support for XPS0825 387 129Technical Support for all other Dell computers0825 387 270Customer Care 0825 823 833Switchboard 0825 004 700Switchboard (calls from outside of France)04 99 75 40 00Sales0825 004 700Fax0825 004 701Fax (calls from outside of France)04 99 75 40 01CorporateTechnical Support0825 004 719Customer Care0825 338 339Switchboard01 55 94 71 00Sales01 55 94 71 00Fax01 55 94 71 01Germany (Langen)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 49City Code: 6103Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.comTechnical Support for XPS069 9792 7222Technical Support for all other Dell computers069 9792-7200Home/Small Business Customer Care0180-5-224400Global Segment Customer Care06103 766-9570Preferred Accounts Customer Care06103 766-9420Large Accounts Customer Care06103 766-9560Public Accounts Customer Care06103 766-9555Switchboard06103 766-7000Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
160 Obtaining AssistanceGreeceInternational Access Code: 00Country Code: 30Website: support.euro.dell.comTechnical Support 00800-44 14 95 18Gold Service Technical Support 00800-44 14 00 83Switchboard2108129810Gold Service Switchboard2108129811Sales2108129800Fax2108129812Grenada General Supporttoll-free: 1-866-540-3355Guatemala General Support1-800-999-0136Guyana General Supporttoll-free: 1-877-270-4609Hong KongInternational Access Code: 001Country Code: 852Website: support.ap.dell.comTechnical Support E-mail: HK_support@Dell.comTechnical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)2969 3188Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision)2969 3191Technical Support (PowerApp™, PowerEdge™, PowerConnect™, and PowerVault™)2969 3196Customer Care3416 0910Large Corporate Accounts 3416 0907Global Customer Programs3416 0908Medium Business Division3416 0912Home and Small Business Division2969 3105India E-mail: india_support_desktop@dell.comindia_support_notebook@dell.comindia_support_Server@dell.comTechnical Support1600338045and 1600448046Sales (Large Corporate Accounts)1600 33 8044Sales (Home and Small Business)1600 33 8046Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
Obtaining Assistance 161Ireland (Cherrywood)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 353City Code: 1Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.comSalesIreland Sales01 204 4444Dell Outlet1850 200 778Online Ordering HelpDesk1850 200 778Customer CareHome User Customer Care01 204 4014Small Business Customer Care01 204 4014Corporate Customer Care1850 200 982Technical SupportTechnical Support for XPS 1850 200 722Technical Support for all other Dell computers1850 543 543At-Home-Service — Technical Support Queries1850 200 889GeneralFax/Sales Fax01 204 0103Switchboard01 204 4444U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only)0870 353 0800U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)0870 353 0202Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)0870 353 0240U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only)0870 353 4000Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
162 Obtaining AssistanceItaly (Milan)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 39City Code: 02Website: support.euro.dell.comHome and Small BusinessTechnical Support02 577 826 90Customer Care02 696 821 14Fax02 696 821 13Switchboard02 696 821 12CorporateTechnical Support02 577 826 90Customer Care02 577 825 55Fax02 575 035 30Switchboard02 577 821Jamaica General Support (dial from within Jamaica only)1-800-682-3639Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
Obtaining Assistance 163Japan (Kawasaki)International Access Code: 001Country Code: 81City Code: 44Website: support.jp.dell.comTechnical Support (servers)toll-free: 0120-198-498Technical Support outside of Japan (servers)81-44-556-4162Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)toll-free: 0120-198-226Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and Inspiron)81-44-520-1435Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude)toll-free:0120-198-433Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude)81-44-556-3894Technical Support (PDAs, projectors, printers, routers)toll-free: 0120-981-690Technical Support outside of Japan (PDAs, projectors, printers, routers)81-44-556-3468Faxbox Service044-556-349024-Hour Automated Order Status Service044-556-3801Customer Care044-556-4240Business Sales Division (up to 400 employees)044-556-1465Preferred Accounts Division Sales (over 400 employees)044-556-3433Public Sales (government agencies, educational institutions, and medical institutions)044-556-5963Global Segment Japan044-556-3469Individual User044-556-1760Switchboard044-556-4300Korea (Seoul)International Access Code: 001Country Code: 82City Code: 2E-mail: krsupport@dell.comSupporttoll-free: 080-200-3800Support (Dimension, PDA, Electronics and Accessories)toll-free: 080-200-3801Salestoll-free: 080-200-3600Fax2194-6202Switchboard2194-6000Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
164 Obtaining AssistanceLatin America Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)512 728-4093Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)512 728-3619Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service) (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)512 728-3883Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)512 728-4397SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)512 728-4600or 512 728-3772LuxembourgInternational Access Code: 00Country Code: 352Website: support.euro.dell.comSupport3420808075Home/Small Business Sales+32 (0)2 713 15 96Corporate Sales26 25 77 81Customer Care+32 (0)2 481 91 19Fax26 25 77 82MacaoCountry Code: 853Technical Supporttoll-free: 0800 105Customer Service (Xiamen, China)34 160 910Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China)29 693 115Malaysia (Penang)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 60City Code: 4Website: support.ap.dell.comTechnical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude)toll-free: 1 800 880 193Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and Electronics and Accessories)toll-free: 1 800 881 306Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) toll-free: 1800 881 386Customer Caretoll-free:1800 881 306(option 6)Transaction Salestoll-free: 1 800 888 202Corporate Salestoll-free: 1 800 888 213Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
Obtaining Assistance 165MexicoInternational Access Code: 00Country Code: 52Customer Technical Support001-877-384-8979or 001-877-269-3383Sales50-81-8800or 01-800-888-3355Customer Service001-877-384-8979or 001-877-269-3383Main50-81-8800or 01-800-888-3355Montserrat General Supporttoll-free: 1-866-278-6822Netherlands Antilles General Support001-800-882-1519Netherlands (Amsterdam)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 31City Code: 20Website: support.euro.dell.com Technical Support for XPS020 674 45 94Technical Support for all other Dell computers020 674 45 00Technical Support Fax020 674 47 66Home/Small Business Customer Care020 674 42 00Relational Customer Care 020 674 4325Home/Small Business Sales020 674 55 00Relational Sales020 674 50 00Home/Small Business Sales Fax020 674 47 75Relational Sales Fax020 674 47 50Switchboard020 674 50 00Switchboard Fax020 674 47 50New ZealandInternational Access Code: 00Country Code: 64Website: support.ap.dell.comE-mail: support.ap.dell.com/contactus General Support 0800 441 567Nicaragua General Support001-800-220-1006Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
166 Obtaining AssistanceNorway (Lysaker)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 47Website: support.euro.dell.comTechnical Support for XPS815 35 043Technical Support for all other Dell products671 16882Relational Customer Care671 17575Home/Small Business Customer Care23162298Switchboard671 16800Fax Switchboard671 16865Panama General Support001-800-507-0962Peru General Support0800-50-669Poland (Warsaw)International Access Code: 011Country Code: 48City Code: 22Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: pl_support_tech@dell.comCustomer Service Phone57 95 700Customer Care57 95 999Sales57 95 999Customer Service Fax57 95 806Reception Desk Fax57 95 998Switchboard57 95 999PortugalInternational Access Code: 00Country Code: 351Website: support.euro.dell.comTechnical Support707200149Customer Care800 300 413Sales800 300 410 or 800 300 411 or800 300 412 or 21 422 07 10Fax21 424 01 12Puerto Rico General Support1-800-805-7545St. Kitts and Nevis General Supporttoll-free: 1-877-441-4731St. Lucia General Support1-800-882-1521St. Vincent and the Grenadines General Supporttoll-free: 1-877-270-4609Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
Obtaining Assistance 167Singapore (Singapore)International Access Code: 005Country Code: 65NOTE: The phone numbers in this section should be called from within Singapore or Malaysia only.Website: support.ap.dell.comTechnical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and Electronics and Accessories)toll-free:18003947430Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision)toll-free:18003947488Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault)toll-free:18003947478Customer Caretoll-free:1 800 394 7430(option 6)Transaction Salestoll-free:18003947412Corporate Salestoll-free:18003947419Slovakia (Prague)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 421Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: czech_dell@dell.comTechnical Support02 5441 5727Customer Care420 22537 2707Fax02 5441 8328Tech Fax02 5441 8328Switchboard (Sales)02 5441 7585South Africa (Johannesburg)International Access Code:09/091Country Code: 27City Code: 11Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: dell_za_support@dell.comGold Queue011 709 7713Technical Support011 709 7710Customer Care011 709 7707Sales011 709 7700Fax011 706 0495Switchboard011 709 7700Southeast Asian and Pacific CountriesTechnical Support, Customer Service, and Sales (Penang, Malaysia)604 633 4810Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
168 Obtaining AssistanceSpain (Madrid)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 34City Code: 91Website: support.euro.dell.comHome and Small BusinessTechnical Support902 100 130Customer Care902 118 540Sales902 118 541Switchboard902 118 541Fax902 118 539CorporateTechnical Support902 100 130Customer Care902 115 236Switchboard91 722 92 00Fax91 722 95 83Sweden (Upplands Vasby)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 46City Code: 8Website: support.euro.dell.comTechnical Support for XPS0771 340 340Technical Support for all other Dell products08 590 05 199Relational Customer Care08 590 05 642Home/Small Business Customer Care08 587 70 527Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support020 140 14 44Technical Support Fax 08 590 05 594Sales08 590 05 185Switzerland (Geneva)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 41City Code: 22Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: Tech_support_central_Europe@dell.comTechnical Support for XPS0848 33 88 57Technical Support (Home and Small Business) for all other Dell products0844 811 411Technical Support (Corporate)0844 822 844Customer Care (Home and Small Business)0848 802 202Customer Care (Corporate)0848 821 721Fax022 799 01 90Switchboard022 799 01 01Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
Obtaining Assistance 169Tai wa nInternational Access Code: 002Country Code: 886Website: support.ap.dell.comE-mail: ap_support@dell.comTechnical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, Inspiron, Dimension, and Electronics and Accessories)toll-free: 00801 86 1011Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault)toll-free: 00801 60 1256Customer Caretoll-free:00801 60 1250(option 5)Transaction Salestoll-free: 00801 65 1228Corporate Salestoll-free: 00801 651 227ThailandInternational Access Code: 001Country Code: 66Website: support.ap.dell.comTechnical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision)toll-free: 1800 0060 07Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault)toll-free: 1800 0600 09Customer Caretoll-free:1800 006 007(option 7)Corporate Salestoll-free: 1800 006 009Transaction Salestoll-free: 1800 006 006Trinidad/Tobago General Support1-800-805-8035Turks and Caicos Islands General Supporttoll-free: 1-866-540-3355Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
170 Obtaining AssistanceU.K. (Bracknell)International Access Code: 00Country Code: 44City Code: 1344Website: support.euro.dell.comE-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.comCustomer Care website: support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/form/home.aspSalesHome and Small Business Sales0870 907 4000Corporate/Public Sector Sales01344 860 456Customer CareHome and Small Business Customer Care 0870 906 0010Corporate Customer Care01344 373 185Preferred Accounts (500–5000 employees) Customer Care0870 906 0010Global Accounts Customer Care01344 373 186Central Government Customer Care01344 373 193Local Government & Education Customer Care01344 373 199Health Customer Care01344 373 194Technical SupportTechnical Support for XPS0870 366 4180Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees])0870 908 0500GeneralTechnical Support for all other products0870 908 0800Home and Small Business Fax0870 907 4006Uruguay General Supporttoll-free: 000-413-598-2521Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
Obtaining Assistance 171U.S.A. (Austin, Texas)International Access Code: 011Country Code: 1Automated Order-Status Servicetoll-free: 1-800-433-9014AutoTech (portable and desktop computers)toll-free: 1-800-247-9362Hardware and Warranty Support (Dell TV, Printers, and Projectors) for Relationship customerstoll-free: 1-877-459-7298Americas Consumer XPS Supporttoll-free: 1-800-232-8544Consumer (Home and Home Office) Support for all other Dell productstoll-free: 1-800-624-9896Customer Servicetoll-free: 1-800-624-9897Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customerstoll-free: 1-800-695-8133Financial Services website:www.dellfinancialservices.comFinancial Services (lease/loans)toll-free: 1-877-577-3355Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA])toll-free: 1-800-283-2210Business Customer Service and Supporttoll-free: 1-800-456-3355Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customerstoll-free: 1-800-695-8133Support for printers, projectors, PDAs, and MP3 playerstoll-free: 1-877-459-7298Public (government, education, and healthcare)Customer Service and Supporttoll-free: 1-800-456-3355Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customerstoll-free: 1-800-695-8133Dell Salestoll-free: 1-800-289-3355 or toll-free: 1-800-879-3355Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers)toll-free: 1-888-798-7561Software and Peripherals Salestoll-free: 1-800-671-3355Spare Parts Salestoll-free: 1-800-357-3355Extended Service and Warranty Salestoll-free: 1-800-247-4618Faxtoll-free: 1-800-727-8320Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or Speech-Impairedtoll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY(1-877-335-5889)Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
172 Obtaining AssistanceU.S. Virgin Islands General Support1-877-673-3355Venezuela General Support8001-3605Country (City)International Access Code Country CodeCity CodeDepartment Name or Service Area,Website and E-Mail AddressArea Codes,Local Numbers, andToll-Free Numbers
Appendix 173AppendixCaution Regarding Safety and Bluetooth devicesThe Dell™ Bluetooth® Module, like other radio devices, emits radio frequency electromagnetic energy. The level of energy emitted by these devices, however, is less than the electromagnetic energy emitted by other wireless devices such as mobile phones. The Dell Bluetooth Module wireless devices operates within the guidelines found in radio frequency safety standards and recommendations. These standards and recommendations reflect the consensus of the scientific community and result from deliberations of panels and committees of scientists who continually review and interpret the extensive research literature. In some situations or environments, the use of the Dell Bluetooth Module wireless devices may be restricted by the proprietor of the building or responsible representatives of the applicable organization. Examples of such situations include the following:• Using the Dell Bluetooth Module equipment on board airplanes, or • Using the Dell Bluetooth Module equipment in any other environment where the risk of interference with other devices or services is perceived or identified as being harmful. If you are uncertain of the policy that applies to the use of wireless devices in a specific organization or environment (an airport, for example), you are encouraged to ask for authorization to use the wireless device before you turn it on. CAUTION: Explosive Device Proximity Warning: Do not operate a portable transmitter (such as a wireless network device) near unshielded blasting caps or in an explosive environment unless the device has been modified to be qualified for such use. CAUTION: Use On Aircraft: Regulations of the FCC and FAA prohibit airborne operation of radio-frequency wireless devices because their signals could interfere with critical aircraft instruments.Cleaning Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
174 AppendixComputer, 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. 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, and wipe the display until it is clean.• 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 Pad1Shut down and turn off your computer.2Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets.3Remove any installed batteries. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 57.4Moisten 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.CDs and DVDs NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the 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.1Hold 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.2With 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.
Appendix 175Macrovision Product NoticeThis 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. FCC Notice (U.S. Only)FCC Class BThis 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 and television reception. 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. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1This device may not cause harmful interference. 2This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. NOTICE: The FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell Inc. could void your authority to operate this equipment. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference with 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 the receiving antenna.• Relocate the system with respect to the receiver.• Move the system away from the receiver.• Plug the system into a different outlet so that the system and the receiver are on different branch circuits.
176 AppendixIf necessary, consult a representative of Dell Inc. or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in compliance with the FCC regulations: Product name: Dell™ XPS™ M2010Model number: PP03XCompany name: Dell Inc.Worldwide Regulatory Compliance & Environmental AffairsOne Dell WayRound Rock, TX 78682 USA512-338-4400
Glossary 177GlossaryTerms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer.AAC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet.ACPI — advanced configuration and power interface — A power management specification that enables Microsoft® Windows® operating systems to put a computer in standby or hibernate mode to conserve the amount of electrical power allocated to each device attached to the computer.AGP — accelerated graphics port — A dedicated graphics port that allows system memory to be used for video-related tasks. AGP delivers a smooth, true-color video image because of the faster interface between the video circuitry and the computer memory.AHCI — Advanced Host Controller Interface — An interface for a SATA hard drive Host Controller which allows the storage driver to enable technologies such as Native Command Queuing (NCQ) and hot plug.ALS — ambient light sensor.antivirus software — A program designed to identify, quarantine, and/or delete viruses from your computer.ASF — alert standards format — A standard to define a mechanism for reporting hardware and software alerts to a management console. ASF is designed to be independent of the platform and operating system.Bbattery 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 powers 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 system setup.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.boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from which the computer attempts to boot.bootable CD — A CD that you can use to start your computer. In case your hard drive is damaged or your computer has a virus, ensure that you always have a bootable CD or floppy disk available. Your Drivers and Utilities or ResourceCD is a bootable CD.bootable disk — A disk that you can use to start your computer. In case your hard drive is damaged or your computer has a virus, ensure that you always have a bootable CD or floppy disk available.bps — bits per second — The standard unit for measuring data transmission speed.BTU — British thermal unit — A measurement of heat output.
178 Glossarybus — 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.CC — 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 that 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 that 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-R — CD recordable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be recorded only once onto a CD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten).CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once.CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read CDs and DVDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once.clock speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast computer components that are connected to the system bus operate. COA — Certificate of Authenticity — The Windows alpha-numeric code located on a sticker on your computer. 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.DDDR SDRAM — double-data-rate SDRAM — A type of SDRAM that doubles the data burst cycle, improving system performance.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.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 in-line memory module — A circuit board with memory chips that connects to a memory module on the system board.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
Glossary 179disk 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.DMTF — Distributed Management Task Force — A consortium of hardware and software companies who develop management standards for distributed desktop, network, enterprise, and Internet environments.domain — A group of computers, programs, and devices on a network that are administered as a unit with common rules and procedures for use by a specific group of users. A user logs on to the domain to gain access to the resources.DRAM — dynamic random-access memory — Memory that stores information in integrated circuits containing capacitors.driver — Software that allows the operating system to control a device such as a printer. Many devices do not work properly if the correct driver is not installed in the computer.DSL — Digital Subscriber Line — A technology that provides a constant, high-speed Internet connection through an analog telephone line. dual-core — An Intel® technology in which two physical computational units exist inside a single processor package, thereby increasing computing efficiency and multi-tasking ability.dual display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as an extension of your display. Also referred to as extended display mode.DVD-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 — drive that can read DVDs and most CD media and write to DVD+RW (rewritable DVDs) discs.DVI — digital video interface — A standard for digital transmission between a computer and a digital video display.EECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special circuitry for testing the accuracy of data as it passes in and out of memory.ECP — extended capabilities port — A parallel connector design that provides improved bidirectional data transmission. Similar to EPP, ECP uses direct memory access to transfer data and often improves performance.EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives and CD drives.EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical interference caused by electromagnetic radiation.ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency requirements that decrease the overall consumption of electricity.EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector design that provides bidirectional data transmission.ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of static electricity. ESD can damage integrated circuits found in computer and communications equipment.expansion card — A circuit board that installs in an expansion slot on the system board in some computers, expanding the capabilities of the computer. Examples include video, modem, and sound cards.expansion slot — A connector on the system board (in some computers) where you insert an expansion card, connecting it to the system bus.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.
180 Glossaryextended 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.FFahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling point of water.FBD — fully-buffered DIMM — A DIMM with DDR2 DRAM chips and an Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) that speeds communication between the DDR2 SDRAM chips and the system.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.fingerprint reader — A strip sensor that uses your unique fingerprint to authenticate your user identity to help secure your computer. folder — A term used to describe space on a disk or drive where files are organized and grouped. Files in a folder can be viewed and ordered in various ways, such as alphabetically, by date, and by size.format — The process that prepares a drive or disk for file storage. When a drive or disk is formatted, the existing information on it is lost.FSB — front side bus — The data path and physical interface between the processor and RAM.FTP — file transfer protocol — A standard Internet protocol used to exchange files between computers connected to the Internet.GG — 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.Hhard 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.hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves everything in memory to a reserved space on the hard drive and then turns off the computer. When you restart the computer, the memory information that was saved to the hard drive is automatically restored.HTTP — hypertext transfer protocol — A protocol for exchanging files between computers connected to the Internet. Hyper-Threading — Hyper-Threading is an Intel® technology that can enhance overall computer performance by allowing one physical processor to function as two logical processors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously.
Glossary 181Hz — hertz — A unit of frequency measurement that equals one cycle per second. Computers and electronic devices are often measured in kilohertz (kHz), megahertz (MHz), gigahertz (GHz), or terahertz (THz).IIC — 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. KKb — 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.LLAN — local area network — A computer network covering a small area. A LAN usually is confined to a building or a few nearby buildings. A LAN can be connected to another LAN over any distance through telephone lines and radio waves to form a wide area network (WAN).LCD — liquid crystal display — The technology used by portable computer and flat-panel displays.LED — light-emitting diode — An electronic component that emits light to indicate the status of the computer.local bus — A data bus that provides a fast throughput for devices to the processor.LPT — line print terminal — The designation for a parallel connection to a printer or other parallel device. MMb — 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.
182 GlossaryMB — 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.media bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module.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.modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, and internal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail.module bay — See media bay.ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second. Access times of storage devices are often measured in ms.Nnetwork adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interface controller).NIC — See network adapter.notification area — The section of the Windows taskbar that contains icons for providing quick access to programs and computer functions, such as the clock, volume control, and print status. Also referred to as system tray.ns — nanosecond — A measure of time that equals one billionth of a second.NVRAM — nonvolatile random access memory — A type of memory that stores data when the computer is turned off or loses its external power source. NVRAM is used for maintaining computer configuration information such as date, time, and other system setup options that you can set.Ooptical 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. Pparallel 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.
Glossary 183PCI — 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.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).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.RRAID — 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.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.
184 GlossaryRPM — 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.SSAS — serial attached SCSI — A faster, serial version of the SCSI interface (as opposed to the original SCSI parallel architecture).SATA — serial ATA — A faster, serial version of the ATA (IDE) interface.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.SCSI — small computer system interface — A high-speed interface used to connect devices to a computer, such as hard drives, CD drives, printers, and scanners. The SCSI can connect many devices using a single controller. Each device is accessed by an individual identification number on the SCSI controller bus.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 system setup.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.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.S/PDIF — Sony/Philips Digital Interface — An audio transfer file format that allows the transfer of audio from one file to another without converting it to and from an analog format, which could degrade the quality of the file.standby mode — A power management mode that shuts down all unnecessary computer operations to save energy.surge protectors — Prevent voltage spikes, such as those that may occur during an electrical storm, from entering the computer through the electrical outlet. Surge protectors do not protect against lightning strikes or against brownouts, which occur when the voltage drops more than 20 percent below the normal AC-line voltage level.Network connections cannot be protected by surge protectors. Always disconnect the network cable from the network connector during electrical storms.SIM — Subscriber Identity Module. A SIM card contains a microchip that encrypts voice and data transmissions. SIM cards can be used in phones or portable computers.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.
Glossary 185SXGA — 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 user-selectable options in the BIOS, such as date and time or system password. Unless you understand what effect the settings have on the computer, do not change the settings for this program.TTAPI — 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).TPM — trusted platform module — A hardware-based security feature that when combined with security software enhances network and computer security by enabling features such as file and e-mail protection.travel module — A plastic device designed to fit inside the module bay of a portable computer to reduce the weight of the computer.UUMA — 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.UXGA — ultra extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1600 x 1200.Vvideo 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.
186 Glossaryvirus — A program that is designed to inconvenience you or to destroy data stored on your computer. A virus program moves from one computer to another through an infected disk, software downloaded from the Internet, or e-mail attachments. When an infected program starts, its embedded virus also starts.A common type of virus is a boot virus, which is stored in the boot sectors of a floppy disk. If the floppy disk is left in the drive when the computer is shut down and then turned on, the computer is infected when it reads the boot sectors of the floppy disk expecting to find the operating system. If the computer is infected, the boot virus may replicate itself onto all the floppy disks that are read or written in that computer until the virus is eradicated.V — volt — The measurement of electric potential or electromotive force. One V appears across a resistance of one ohm when a current of one ampere flows through that resistance.WW — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One W is one ampere of current flowing at one volt.WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for one hour or 33 W for two hours.wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in your favorite picture and make it wallpaper.WLAN — wireless local area network — A series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves using access points or wireless routers to provide Internet access.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.WWAN — wireless wide area network — A wireless high-speed data network using cellular technology and covering a much larger geographic area than WLAN. WXGA — wide-aspect extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 800.XXGA — extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1024 x 768.ZZIF — zero insertion force — A type of socket or connector that allows a computer chip to be installed or removed with no stress applied to either the chip or its socket.Zip — A popular data compression format. Files that have been compressed with the Zip format are called Zip files and usually have a filename extension of .zip. A special kind of zipped file is a self-extracting file, which has a filename extension of .exe. You can unzip a self-extracting file by double-clicking it.Zip drive — A high-capacity floppy drive developed by Iomega Corporation that uses 3.5-inch removable disks called Zip disks. Zip disks are slightly larger than regular floppy disks, about twice as thick, and hold up to 100 MB of data.
Index 187IndexAAC adapter connectordescription, 25system view, 24adapterAC, 145Audio/IR blaster, 47component video, 47composite video, 46air ventsdescription, 26system view, 26anti-virus software, 95, 97, 104audio deviceconnecting, 45enabling, 49audio. See soundAudio/IR blaster adapter connectordescription, 25system view, 25Bbatterycharge gauge, 62charging, 63check health, 62checking the charge, 61-62coin cell, 138conserving power, 63battery (continued)description, 27inserting, 57keyboard, 37low warning, 63performance, 60power meter, 62QuickSet battery meter, 62removing, 59, 132storing, 64system view, 27battery charge gaugedescription, 27system view, 27battery latch releasedescription, 27system view, 27boot sequence, 114brightnessadjusting, 52broadband modemconnecting, 77Ccameradescription, 18help, 55recording a video, 56set up, 55system view, 18taking a picture, 56card readercompact flash card reader, 83ExpressCard reader, 84media memory card reader, 83cardscompact flash card reader, 83ExpressCard reader, 84extended, 84installing, 84media memory card reader, 83removing, 85supported, 83troubleshooting, 106carnet, 122CDsabout, 42cleaning, 174Drivers and Utilities, 13operating system, 16ResourceCD, 13Check Disk, 96cleaningCDs and DVDs, 174touch pad, 174coin-cell batteryinstalling, 138removing, 138Compact Flash card readerdescription, 23system view, 23
188 Index188 Indexcomputerbefore working inside, 131cleaning, 173crashes, 102-103restore to previous state, 126slow performance, 97, 104specifications, 141stops responding, 102turning off, 131conflictssoftware and hardware incompatibilities, 126connectingaudio device, 45TV, 45copying CDsgeneral information, 42helpful tips, 44how to, 42copying DVDsgeneral information, 42helpful tips, 44how to, 42Cyberlink headphonessetting up, 50DDellcontacting, 154Dell DiagnosticsDrivers and Utilities CD, 92starting from hard drive, 91using, 91Dell Media Center User’s Guide, 16Dell Media Experienceabout, 44help, 45Dell MediaDirectabout, 44help, 45troubleshooting, 103Dell support site, 15device status lightsdescription, 20system view, 20diagnosticsDell, 91digital-video interface. See DVIdisplayadjusting brightness, 52adjusting the panel, 52closing, 51description, 18dual display operation, 53opening, 51primary and secondary, 54resolution, 53switching the video image, 53system view, 18troubleshooting, 110display latchdescription, 18system view, 18display latch releasedescription, 22system view, 22documentationDell Media Center User’s Guide, 16End User License Agreement, 13ergonomics, 13online, 15Product Information Guide, 13regulatory, 13remote control, 16safety, 13warranty, 13driversabout, 123Drivers and Utilities CD, 13identifying, 123reinstalling, 124Drivers and Utilities CDabout, 13Dell Diagnostics, 91using, 124drivesRAID, 115troubleshooting, 95DVD drivedescription, 21system view, 21troubleshooting, 95-96DVDsabout, 42cleaning, 174DVI monitor connectordescription, 25system view, 25
Index 189EEnd User License Agreement, 13ergonomics information, 13error messages, 98ExpressCard readerdescription, 23system view, 23Ffan air ventsdescription, 27system view, 27FCC notice, 175Files and Settings Transfer Wizard, 68firewallWindows XP, 81firewiredescription, 23firewire. See IEEE 1394Gglossary, 177Hhard drivetroubleshooting, 96hardwareconflicts, 126Dell Diagnostics, 91hardware (continued)drives, RAID configuration, 115Hardware Troubleshooter, 126headphone connectordescription, 22system view, 22Help and Support Center, 15help fileWindows Help and Support Center, 15hibernate modeabout, 65IIEEE 1394description, 23system view, 23troubleshooting, 101infrared sensordescription, 21system view, 21Internet connectionabout, 67options, 67setting up, 67IRQ conflicts, 126Kkeyboardbattery, 37description, 20numeric keypad, 33keyboard (continued)pairing, 29shortcuts, 34system view, 20troubleshooting, 101using, 29keyboard batteryreplacing, 37keyboard status lightsdescription, 18system view, 18keypadnumeric, 33LlabelsMicrosoft Windows, 14Service Tag, 14, 57, 89, 93, 121, 149, 153lost computer, 89MMacrovision product notice, 175media control buttonsDell MediaDirect button, 44description, 19system view, 19media memory card readerdescription, 23system view, 23
190 Index190 IndexMediaDirect buttondescription, 18system view, 18memoryinstalling, 133removing, 134memory module coverdescription, 27system view, 27messageserror, 98microphone connectordescription, 22system view, 22Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition, 16, 44mini PCI-e cardSee WLAN cardMobile Broadband Network (WWAN)about, 80card, 80connecting, 81ExpressCards, 81network connections, 80modem connector (RJ-11)description, 24system view, 24mousecustomizing, 36description, 19pairing, 31system view, 19troubleshooting, 109using, 29Nnetworkabout, 75connecting, 75firewall, 81Mobile Broadband Network (WWAN), 80Network Setup Wizard, 75troubleshooting, 105Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), 76wireless network card, 76Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN), 80network connectordescription, 24system view, 24Ooperating systemreinstalling, 16reinstalling Windows XP, 126Operating System CD, 16Ppasswordsabout, 87administrator, 87-88forgetting, 88primary, 87-88security, 87pictureadjusting, 42powerhibernate mode, 65line conditioners, 72protection devices, 72standby mode, 64surge protectors, 72troubleshooting, 106UPS, 72power buttondescription, 18system view, 18power lightconditions, 106power managementabout, 64hibernate mode, 65settings, 65standby mode, 64printercable, 71connecting, 71setting up, 71troubleshooting, 107USB, 71problemsconflicts, 126restore to previous state, 126Product Information Guide, 13QQuickSetabout, 139battery meter, 62help, 16, 139
Index 191RRAIDconfiguring, 115RAM. See memoryregulatory information, 13reinstallingWindows XP, 126remote control instructions, 16resolutionsetting, 53ResourceCD, 124about, 13See also Drivers and Utilities CDSS/PDIF digital audioenabling, 49safetyBluetooth devices, 173instructions, 13scannertroubleshooting, 108security cable slotdescription, 21system view, 21Service Tag, 14, 57, 89, 93, 121, 149, 153softwarecomputer tracking, 89conflicts, 126problems, 102troubleshooting, 103soundtroubleshooting, 108volume, 108speakertroubleshooting, 108volume, 108speakersdescription, 18system view, 18specifications, 141spyware, 97, 104standby modeabout, 64stolen computer, 89subwoofer coverdescription, 27system view, 27supportcontacting Dell, 154support website, 15S-video TV-out connectorconnecting a TV, 25description, 25System Restore, 126system setup programcommonly used options, 114purpose, 113screens, 114viewing, 113system viewsback, 24bottom, 26front, 17left side, 21right side, 22Ttouch padabout, 35buttons, 20, 35cleaning, 174customizing, 36description, 20system view, 20troubleshooting, 109transferring information to a new computer, 68traveling with the computerby air, 122identification tag, 121packing, 121tips, 122troubleshootingblue screen, 103cards, 106computer crashes, 102-103
192 Index192 Indextroubleshooting (continued)computer does not start, 102computer stops responding, 102conflicts, 126Dell Diagnostics, 91Dell MediaDirect, 103drives, 95DVD drive, 95-96error messages, 98external keyboard problems, 101hard drive, 96Hardware Troubleshooter, 126Help and Support Center, 15IEEE 1394, 101keyboard, 101lockups, 102mouse, 109network, 105power, 106power light conditions, 106printer, 107program crashes, 102program stops responding, 102programs and Windows compatibility, 102restore to previous state, 126scanner, 108slow computer performance, 97, 104software, 102-103sound and speakers, 108speaker, 108spyware, 97, 104touch pad, 109video and display, 110TVconnecting, 45Uuninterruptible power supply. See UPSUPS, 72USB connectorsdescription, 22system view, 22Vvideotroubleshooting, 110volumeadjusting, 41, 109Wwarranty information, 13Windows Firewall, 81Windows XPDevice Driver Rollback, 124Files and Settings Transfer Wizard, 68Hardware Troubleshooter, 126Help and Support Center, 15hibernate mode, 65Program Compatibility Wizard, 102reinstalling, 16, 126Windows XP (continued)standby mode, 64System Restore, 126Windows Firewall, 81wireless connection buttondescription, 22system view, 22Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)connecting, 76, 78set up, 77wireless network device manager, 78wireless network cardenabling/disabling, 79status, 80wireless routerconnecting, 77Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)about, 80wizardsFiles and Settings Transfer Wizard, 68Network Setup Wizard, 75Program Compatibility Wizard, 102WLAN cardinstalling, 137replacing, 136

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