Novatel Wireless NRM-EU860D Dual Band Licensed Modular Transmitter User Manual book
Novatel Wireless, Inc. Dual Band Licensed Modular Transmitter book
Contents
- 1. Part 1
- 2. Part 2
- 3. Manual 1
- 4. Manual 2
- 5. Manual 3
- 6. Manual 4
- 7. User Manual 1
- 8. User Manual 2
- 9. User Manual M1210
- 10. User Manual D430
- 11. User Manual D420
- 12. User Manual Corsica
- 13. User Manual Sapporo
- 14. User Manual Vostro 1
- 15. User Manual Vostro 2
- 16. Users Manual Vostro 3
- 17. Users Manual Vostro 4
- 18. User Manual 3
- 19. User Manual 4
- 20. User Manual Gilligan
User Manual M1210
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Dell™ XPS™ M1210
Owner’s Manual
Model PP11S
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see "Glossary" on page 177.
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft
®
Windows
®
operating systems are not applicable.
____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 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, PowerConnect,
PowerVault, PowerApp, Dell TravelLite, ExpressCharge, Wi-Fi Catcher, Dell MediaDirect, Strike Zone, and XPS are trademarks of Dell Inc.;
Core is a trademark and Intel, Celeron, and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Outlook, and Windows are
registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under
license; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model PP11S
August 2006 P/N PF362 Rev. A03
Contents 3
Contents
Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1 About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Determining Your Computer’s Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Left Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Right Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Back View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Bottom View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2 Setting Up Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Setting Up Your Internet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Transferring Information to a New Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the
Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the
Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Printer Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Connecting a USB Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Power Protection Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Surge Protectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Line Conditioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Uninterruptible Power Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
4Contents
3 Using the Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Adjusting Brightness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Switching the Video Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Setting Display Resolution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
4 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Key Combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Display Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
QuickSet Key Combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Adjusting Keyboard Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Customizing the Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
5 Using a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Checking the Battery Charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Charge Gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Conserving Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Power Management Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Configuring Power Management Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Storing a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Contents 5
6 Using the Optional Camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Accessing the Camera’s Help File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Creating a Picture or a Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
7 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Playing a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Adjusting the Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Copying CDs and DVDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
How to Copy a CD or DVD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Using Blank CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Using Dell Media Experience and Dell MediaDirect™. . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
If the Computer Is Turned On or in Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
If the Computer Is Turned Off or in Hibernate Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience Help . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
S-Video and Standard Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Composite Video and Standard Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Component Video and Standard Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft® Windows® XP . . . 68
Sound Modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Stereo Sound Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
5.1 Surround Sound Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
6Contents
8Using Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
ExpressCards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
ExpressCard Blanks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Installing an ExpressCard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Removing an ExpressCard or Blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Media Memory Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Installing a Media Memory Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Removing a Media Memory Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
9 Using Networks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem . . . . . . . . . . 75
Network Setup Wizard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Checking Your Wireless Network Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Setting Up a New WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Connecting to a WLAN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Completing the Connection to the WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through
Dell™ QuickSet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband
Network Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card. . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Dell™ Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Microsoft® Windows® Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
10 Securing Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Contents 7
Computer Tracking Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
11 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Dell Support Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Accessing the Dell Support Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Clicking the Dell Support Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
CD and DVD drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray . . . . . 89
If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
ExpressCard Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
IEEE 1394 Device Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
External Keyboard problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Unexpected characters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
The computer does not start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows®
operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Dell MediaDirect™ problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Memory Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
8Contents
Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network) . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
No sound from integrated speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
No sound from external speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
No sound from headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Video and Display Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
If the display is blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
If the display is difficult to read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
If only part of the display is readable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Restoring Your Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Using the Operating System CD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
12 Adding and Replacing Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Before Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Contents 9
Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Returning a Hard Drive to Dell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
WLAN Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Mobile Broadband Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
13 Dell™ QuickSet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
14 Traveling With Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Identifying Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Packing the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Travel Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Traveling by Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
15 Contacting Dell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
16 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
17 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Using the System Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Viewing the System Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
System Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Commonly Used Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
10 Contents
Cleaning Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Computer, Keyboard, and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
CDs and DVDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals . . . . . . . . . 175
Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals. . . . . . . . . . . 175
FCC Notice (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
FCC Class B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
Macrovision Product Notice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Finding Information 11
Finding Information
NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or media may
not be available in certain countries.
NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
• A diagnostic program for my computer
• Drivers for my computer
• My device documentation
• Notebook System Software (NSS)
Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as ResourceCD)
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may be optional and may
not ship with your computer.
Documentation and drivers are already installed on your
computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see
"Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 106) or to run
the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 85).
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 Agreement
Dell™ Product Information Guide
12 Finding Information
• How to set up my computer
Setup Diagram
• Service Tag and Express Service Code
• Microsoft Windows License Label
Service Tag and Microsoft
®
Windows
®
License
These labels are located on
the bottom of
your computer.
• Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you
use
support.dell.com
or contact technical support.
• Enter the Express
Service Code to direct
your call when
contacting technical
support.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
Finding Information 13
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips; articles
from technicians; online courses; and frequently asked
questions
• Community — Online discussion with other Dell
customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such
as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system
• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and
order status, warranty, and repair information
• Service and support — Service call status and support
history, service contract, online discussions with
technical support
• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my
computer configuration, product specifications, and
white papers
• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software
updates
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support
site.
• 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.
To download Notebook System Software:
1
Go to
support.dell.com
and click
Downloads
.
2
Enter your Service Tag or product model.
3
In the
Download Category
drop-down menu, click
All
.
4
Select the operating system and operating system
language for your computer, and click
Submit.
5
Under
Select a Device
, scroll to
System and
Configuration Utilities
, and click
Dell Notebook System
Software
.
• Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints
• Frequently asked questions, hot topics, and general
health of your computing environment
Dell Support Utility
The 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 88.
• How to use Windows XP
• How to work with programs and files
• How to personalize my desktop
Windows Help and Support Center
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Help and Support
.
2
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and
click the arrow icon.
3
Click the topic that describes your problem.
4
Follow the instructions on the screen.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
14 Finding Information
• Information on network activity, the Power Management
Wizard, hotkeys, and other items controlled by Dell
QuickSet
Dell QuickSet Help
To view
Dell QuickSet Help
,
right-click the icon
in the Microsoft® Windows® taskbar.
For more information on Dell QuickSet, see "Dell™
QuickSet" on page 137.
• How to reinstall my operating system
Operating System CD
NOTE: The Operating System CD is optional and may not ship
with your computer.
The operating system is already installed on your computer.
To reinstall your operating system, use one of the following
methods:
• Microsoft Windows
System Restore
— Microsoft
Windows
System Restore
returns your computer to an
earlier operating state without affecting data files.
•Dell
PC Restore
— Dell
PC Restore
returns your computer
to its original operating state. Dell
PC Restore
may not
ship with your computer.
•
Operating System
CD — If you received an
Operating
System
CD with your computer, you can use it to restore
your operating system.
For more information, see "Restoring Your Operating
System" on page 108.
After you reinstall your
operating system, use the
Drivers and Utilities CD
(ResourceCD) (see
"Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 106) to
reinstall drivers for the
devices that came with
your computer.
NOTE: The color of your CD varies based on the operating
system you ordered.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
About Your Computer 15
About Your Computer
Determining Your Computer’s Configuration
Based on selections that you made when purchasing your computer, your computer has one of
several different video controller configurations. To determine your computer’s video controller
configuration:
1
Access the Microsoft
®
Windows
®
Help and Support Center. For instructions, see
"Windows Help
and Support Center" on page 13
.
2
Under
Pick a Task
, click
Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems.
3
Under
My Computer Information
, select
Hardware
.
From the My Computer Information - Hardware screen, you can view the type of video controller
installed in your computer, as well as the other hardware components.
16 About Your Computer
Front View
CAMERA —For more information about the camera, see "Using the Optional Camera" on page 45.
DISPLAY —For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on page 33.
POWER BUTTON —Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power management mode.
See "Power Management Modes" on page 41.
SHUTTER BUTTON —Press the shutter button to take a picture. The shutter button is only available with the
optional camera.
1camera 6device status lights 11 touch pad buttons
2display 7keyboard and wireless status
lights
12 touch pad
3power button 8media control buttons 13 keyboard
4shutter button 9microphone/line-in connector 14 Dell MediaDirect™ button
5speakers (2) 10 headphone connectors (2)
1
2
5
6
10
7
3
98
12
13
11
4
14
About Your Computer 17
SPEAKERS (2) — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the media control buttons.
DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS
If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the light operates as follows:
• Solid green: The battery is charging.
• Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged.
If the computer is running on a battery, the light operates as follows:
• Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off).
• Flashing orange: The battery charge is low.
• Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low.
KEYBOARD AND WIRELESS STATUS LIGHTS —
The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:
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 the numeric keypad is enabled.
Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.
Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.
9
A
18 About Your Computer
MEDIA CONTROL BUTTONS —Control CD, DVD, and Media Player playback.
Turns on when wireless networking is enabled. To enable
or disable wireless networking, use the wireless switch.
For information on using the wireless switch, see "Dell™
Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 82.
Turns on when a card with Bluetooth® wireless
technology is enabled.
NOTE: The card with Bluetooth wireless technology is an
optional feature, so the light turns on only if you
ordered the card with your computer. For more information,
see the documentation that came with your card.
To turn off only the Bluetooth wireless technology
functionality, right-click the icon in the notification
area and click Disable Bluetooth Radio.
To enable or disable wireless networking, use the wireless
switch. For information on using the wireless switch, see
"Dell™ Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 82.
Mute the sound.
Turn the volume down.
Turn the volume up.
Play or pause.
Play the previous track.
Play the next track.
Stop.
About Your Computer 19
MICROPHONE/LINE-IN CONNECTOR —Attach a microphone or other sound input device
to the connector. For
information about how to use the headphone connectors and the microphone/line-in connector for 5.1 surround sound
mode, see
"Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device" on page 56
.
HEADPHONE CONNECTORS (2) —
Attach headphones or speakers to the connectors. For information about how
to use the headphone connectors and the microphone/line-in connector for 5.1 surround sound mode, see
"Connecting
Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device" on page 56
.
TOUCH PAD BUTTONS —Touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse.
TOUCH PAD —Provides the functionality of a mouse.
KEYBOARD —The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft Windows logo key. For information
on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Key Combinations" on page 36.
DELL MEDIADIRECT™ BUTTON —Press the button to launch either Dell Media Experience or Dell MediaDirect.
20 About Your Computer
Left Side View
MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)
NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To help prevent damage to the
computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network connector.
USB CONNECTORS
S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR
CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your
computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow
can damage the computer or cause a fire.
AIR VENTS —The computer uses fans to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from
overheating.
WIRELESS SWITCH —Turns on/off wireless devices such as Wi-Fi and internal cards with Bluetooth technology and
scans for wireless networks. For more information about scanning for wireless networks, see "Dell™ Wi-Fi Catcher™
Network Locator" on page 82.
1modem connector (RJ-11) 4air vents 7ExpressCard slot
2USB connectors (2) 5wireless switch 8hard drive
3S-video TV-out connector 6Wi-Fi Catcher light
To use the internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector.
For additional information on using the modem, see the online modem
documentation supplied with your computer.
Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. You can also connect
the optional floppy drive directly to a USB connector using the optional floppy-
drive cable.
Connects your computer to a TV. Also connects digital audio-capable devices
using the TV/digital audio adapter cable.
1 2 3 5 7 8
46
About Your Computer 21
WI-FI CATCHER™ LIGHT —The light operates as follows:
• Flashing green: Searching for networks
• Solid green: Strong network found
• Solid yellow: Weak network found
• Flashing amber: No signal found or error
• Off: No signal found
EXPRESSCARD SLOT —Supports one ExpressCard. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot.
You can add an ExpressCard to make WWAN connectivity available on your computer. For more information, see
"Using Cards" on page 71.
HARD DRIVE —Stores software and data. For more information, see "Hard Drive" on page 116 and "Hard drive
problems" on page 90.
Right Side View
OPTICAL DRIVE BAY —You can install devices such as a DVD drive or other optical drive in the optical drive bay.
For more information, see "Optical Drive" on page 115.
5-IN-1 MEDIA MEMORY CARD READER —Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos,
music, and videos stored on a media memory card. The 5-in-1 media memory card reader reads the following digital
media memory cards:
• Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO
• MultiMediaCard (MMC)
•Memory Stick
• Memory Stick PRO
• xD-Picture Card
IEEE 1394 CONNECTOR —Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital
video cameras.
1optical drive bay 3IEEE 1394 connector 5video connector
25-in-1 media memory card
reader
4USB connectors (2)
1 2 3 4 5
22 About Your Computer
VIDEO CONNECTOR
Back View
NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)
BATTERY —When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an
electrical outlet. For more information about the battery, see "Using a Battery" on page 39.
AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR —Attaches an AC adapter to the computer. The AC adapter converts AC power to the
DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either on or off.
Connects an external VGA-compatible monitor.
1network connector 3AC adapter connector
2battery 4security cable slot
Connects the computer to a network. The green and yellow lights next to the
connector indicate activity for wired network communications.
For information on using the network adapter, see the online network adapter
documentation supplied with your computer.
1 2 3 4
About Your Computer 23
CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power
strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to the power strip
or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage.
NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the connector, not the cable itself,
and pull firmly but gently to help prevent damage to the cable.
SECURITY CABLE SLOT —Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device. For more information about
the security cable slot, see "Security Cable Lock" on page 83.
Bottom View
HARD DRIVE —Stores software and data. For more information, see "Hard Drive" on page 116 and "Hard drive
problems" on page 90.
OPTICAL-DRIVE LOCKING SCREW —Holds the optical drive in place. For more information, see "Optical Drive" on
page 115.
MEMORY MODULE COVER —Covers the compartment that contains the modem and the memory modules. For
more information, see "Memory" on page 119.
1hard drive 4air vents 7battery charge gauge
2optical-drive locking screw 5communications card cover 8battery
3memory module cover 6battery-bay latch release
1
3
4
6
8
5
7
2
24 About Your 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.
AIR VENTS —The computer uses fans to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from
overheating.
COMMUNICATIONS CARD COVER —Covers the WLAN card slot and the Mobile Broadband card slot. For more
information, see "Using Networks" on page 75.
BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE —Releases the battery from the battery bay. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 43.
BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE —Provides information on the battery charge status. See "Checking the Battery Charge"
on page 40.
BATTERY —When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an
electrical outlet. For more information, see "Using a Battery" on page 39.
Setting Up Your Computer 25
Setting Up Your Computer
Connecting to the Internet
NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.
To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service
provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options:
• Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections
are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections.
• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line.
With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same line
simultaneously.
• Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV
line.
If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your
computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using
a DSL or cable modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions.
Setting Up Your Internet Connection
To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut:
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Double-click the ISP
icon on the Microsoft
®
Windows
®
desktop.
3
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with
a different ISP:
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Click the
Start
button and click
Internet Explorer
.
The
New Connection Wizard
appears.
3
Click
Connect to the Internet
.
26 Setting Up Your Computer
4
In the next window, click the appropriate option:
• If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click
Choose from a list of Internet service
providers (ISPs)
.
• If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD,
click
Set up my connection manually
.
• If you have a CD, click
Use the CD I got from an ISP
.
5
Click
Next
.
If you selected
Set up my connection manually
, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions
on the screen to complete the setup.
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.
6
Click the appropriate option under
How do you want to connect to the Internet?
, and then click
Next
.
7
Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on
page 90. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might
have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.
Transferring Information to a New Computer
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move
data from a source computer to a new computer. You can transfer data, such as:
• E-mail messages
• Toolbar settings
• Window sizes
• Internet bookmarks
You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network connection, or you can store it on
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.
Setting Up Your Computer 27
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.
Prepare the New Computer for the File Transfer
1
Start the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard by clicking
Start
→
All Programs
→
Accessories
→
System
Tools
→
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
.
2
When the
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
welcome screen appears, click
Next
.
3
On the
Which computer is this?
screen, click
New Computer
and click
Next
.
4
On the
Do you have a Windows XP CD?
screen, click
I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD
and click
Next
.
5
When the
Now go to your old computer
screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do
not
click
Next
at this time.
Copy Data From the Old Computer
1
On the old computer, insert the Windows XP
Operating System
CD.
2
On the
Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP
screen, click
Perform additional tasks
.
3
Under
What do you want to do?
, click
Transfer files and settings
.
4
On the
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
welcome screen, click
Next
.
5
On the
Which computer is this?
screen, click
Old Computer
and click
Next
.
6
On the
Select a transfer method
screen, click the transfer method you prefer.
7
On the
What do you want to transfer?
screen, select the items you want to transfer and click
Next
.
After the information has been copied, the
Completing the Collection Phase
screen appears.
8
Click
Finish
.
Transfer Data to the New Computer
1
On the
Now go to your old computer
screen on the new computer, click
Next
.
2
On the
Where are the files and settings?
screen, select the method you chose for transferring your
settings and files and click
Next
.
The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer.
When all of the settings and files have been applied, the
Finished
screen appears.
3
Click
Finished
and restart the new computer.
28 Setting Up Your Computer
Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD
To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the optional Operating System CD, you must
create a wizard disk that 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.
Create a Wizard Disk
1
Start the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard by clicking
Start
→
All Programs
→
Accessories
→
System
Tools
→
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
.
2
When the
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
welcome screen appears, click
Next
.
3
On the
Which computer is this?
screen, click
New Computer
and click
Next
.
4
On the
Do you have a Windows XP CD?
screen, click
I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following
drive:
and click
Next.
5
Insert the removable media, such as a writable CD, and click
OK
.
6
When the disk creation completes and the
Now go to your old computer
message appears,
do not
click
Next
.
7
Go to the old computer.
Copy Data From the Old Computer
1
On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.
2
Click the
Start
button and click
Run
.
3
In the
Open
field on the
Run
window, browse to the path for
fastwiz
(on the appropriate removable
media) and click
OK
.
4
On the
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
welcome screen, click
Next
.
5
On the
Which computer is this?
screen, click
Old Computer
and click
Next
.
6
On the
Select a transfer method
screen, click the transfer method you prefer.
7
On the
What do you want to transfer?
screen, select the items you want to transfer and click
Next
.
After the information has been copied, the
Completing the Collection Phase
screen appears.
8
Click
Finish
.
Setting Up Your Computer 29
Transfer Data to the New Computer
1
On the
Now go to your old computer
screen on the new computer, click
Next
.
2
On the
Where are the files and settings?
screen, select the method you chose for transferring your
settings and files and click
Next
. Follow the instructions on the screen.
The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer.
When all of the settings and files have been applied, the
Finished
screen appears.
3
Click
Finished
and restart the new computer.
NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search 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 a Printer
NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer.
See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to:
• Obtain and install updated drivers.
• Connect the printer to the computer.
• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.
For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the printer manufacturer.
Printer Cable
Your printer connects to your computer with either a USB cable or a parallel cable. Your printer may not
come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your
printer and computer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer,
the cable may arrive in the box in which your computer was shipped.
30 Setting Up Your Computer
Connecting a USB Printer
NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1
Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.
2
Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB
connectors fit only one way.
3
Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the
Add New Hardware Wizard
window
appears, click
Cancel
.
4
Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.
Power Protection Devices
Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures:
• Surge protectors
• Line conditioners
• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)
1USB connector on
computer
2USB printer cable 3connector on printer
2
1
3
Setting Up Your Computer 31
Surge Protectors
Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help prevent damage to your computer
from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or after power interruptions. Some surge
protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain types of damage. Carefully read the device
warranty when choosing a surge protector. A device with a higher joule rating offers more protection.
Compare joule ratings to determine the relative effectiveness of different devices.
NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or power interruptions caused by
nearby lightning strikes. When a lightning storm is expected 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 connector 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 connector during electrical storms and when a lightning storm is expected in your area.
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).
32 Setting Up Your Computer
Using the Display 33
Using the Display
Adjusting Brightness
When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the
brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing <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 (key combinations) 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).
Switching the Video Image
When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector)
attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the external device.
Press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or
the display and the external device simultaneously.
For more display options, click Start
→
Control Panel
→
Display
→
Settings.
Setting Display Resolution
To display a program at a specific resolution, both the graphics card and the display must support the
program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.
Before you change any of the default display settings, make a note of the default settings for future
reference.
34 Using the Display
If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust
automatically to the closest supported values.
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Control Panel
.
2
Under
Pick a category
, click
Appearance and Themes
.
3
Under
Pick a task...
, click the area you want to change, or under
or pick a Control Panel icon
, click
Display
.
4
Try different settings for
Color quality
and
Screen resolution
.
NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen.
Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 35
Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
Numeric Keypad
The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the
keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of
the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, press <Fn> and the desired key after enabling the
keypad.
• To enable the keypad, press <Num Lk>. The light indicates that the keypad is active.
• To disable the keypad, press <Num Lk> again.
9
36 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
Key Combinations
System Functions
Display Functions
Power Management
Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions
<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Task Manager window.
<Fn><F8> Displays icons representing all currently available display
options (for example, display only, external monitor or
projector only, both display and projector, and so on).
Highlight the desired icon to switch the display to that
option.
<Fn> and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not
on an external monitor).
<Fn> and down-arrow
key
Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not
on an external monitor).
<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. See "Power
Management Modes" on page 41.
Windows logo key and
<m>
Minimizes all open windows.
Windows logo key and
<Shift><m>
Restores all minimized windows. This command
functions as a toggle to restore (maximize) all
windows previously minimized with 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.
Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 37
QuickSet Key Combinations
If QuickSet is installed, you can use other shortcut keys for functions such as the Battery Meter or
activating power management modes. For more information about QuickSet key combinations, right-
click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.
Adjusting Keyboard Settings
To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click Printers
and Other Hardware, and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see the Windows
Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support
Center" on page 13.
Touch Pad
The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow you to move the cursor on the
display. Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons as you would use a mouse.
• To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad.
• To select an object, position the cursor on the object and 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.
1touch pad 2touch pad buttons (2)
1
2
38 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
The touch pad has silk screening on the right side and at the bottom to indicate vertical and horizontal
scrolling capability. 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
You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad or adjust its settings.
1
Open the Control Panel, click
Printers and Other Hardware
, and then click
Mouse
. For information
about the Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support
Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.
2
In the
Mouse Properties
window, click the
Touch Pad
tab to adjust touch pad settings.
3
Click
OK
to save the settings and close the window.
Using a Battery 39
Using a Battery
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 battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in
the battery bay.
NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer to an
electrical outlet the first time you use the computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC
adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, access the Control Panel, click Power
Options, and then click the Power Meter tab.
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.
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, 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 43.)
NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD.
You can check the battery charge (see "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 40) before you insert
the battery into the computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the
battery charge is low. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 43 for information
about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.
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.
40 Using a Battery
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 Charge
The 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.
Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter
If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery
Meter displays status, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer. For
information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.
Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter
The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, double-
click the icon on the taskbar. For instructions on accessing more information about the Power Meter,
see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 43.
If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears.
Charge Gauge
By 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 Charge
To 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 four of the lights are on, the battery has 80 percent of its charge remaining. If no lights
appear, the battery has no charge.
Using a Battery 41
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 or 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 "Specifications" on page 163 for more information about the battery operating time.
Low-Battery Warning
NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery warning, and then
connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins
automatically.
By default, a pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted.
You can change the settings for the battery alarms. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on
page 43 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.
Conserving Battery Power
Perform 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 41 for more information about standby
and hibernate modes.
• Use the Power Management Wizard
to select options to optimize your computer’s power usage. These
options can also be set to change when you press the power button, close the display, or press
<Fn><Esc>. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 43 for more information on
using the Power Management Wizard.
NOTE: See "Battery Performance" on page 39 for more information on conserving battery power.
Power Management Modes
Standby Mode
Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a predetermined
period of inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby mode, it returns to the same
operating state it was in before entering standby mode.
NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby mode, it may lose data.
42 Using a Battery
To enter standby mode:
• Click
Start
→
Shut Down
→
Stand by
.
or
• Depending on how you set the power management options on the
Advanced
tab (see "Configuring
Power Management Settings" on page 43) in the
Power Options Properties
window, 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 options
on the Advanced tab. You cannot make the computer exit standby mode by pressing a key or touching
the touch pad.
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 or undock your computer 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
Start
→
Shut Down
, press and hold <Shift>, and then click
Hibernate
.
or
• Depending on how you set the power management options on the
Advanced
tab in the
Power Options
Properties
window, use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:
– Press the power button.
– Close the display.
– Press <Fn><Esc>.
NOTE: Some ExpressCards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove and
reinsert the card (see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 72), 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.
Using a Battery 43
Configuring Power Management Settings
You can use the QuickSet Power Management Wizard or Windows Power Options Properties to
configure the power management settings on your computer.
• To access the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, double-click the icon in the taskbar. For more
information about QuickSet, click the
Help
button in the Power Management Wizard.
• To access the
Power Options Properties
window, click
Start
→
Control Panel
→
Performance and
Maintenance
→
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 corresponding to the
information that you need.
Charging the Battery
NOTE: With Dell™ ExpressCharge™, the AC adapter charges a completely discharged 6-cell battery in
approximately 1 hour with the computer turned off. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on and also with
the higher-capacity 9-cell battery. You can leave the battery in the computer as long as you like. The battery’s
internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.
When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is
connected to an electrical outlet, the computer checks the battery charge and temperature. If necessary,
the AC adapter then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge.
If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot environment, the battery may
not charge when you connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
The battery is too hot to start charging if the light flashes alternately green and orange. Disconnect
the computer from the electrical outlet and allow the computer and the battery to cool to room
temperature. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue charging the battery.
For more information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 100.
Replacing the Battery
For instructions about how to replace the main battery, see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on
page 114.
Storing a Battery
Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges
during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully (see "Charging the
Battery" on page 43) before you use it.
44 Using a Battery
Using the Optional Camera 45
Using the Optional Camera
If you ordered a camera when you bought your computer, the camera is integrated in the computer
display. The camera and its integrated directional microphone allows you to take photos and videos
and to communicate visually and verbally with other computer users. The swivel action of the
camera is manually adjustable. The blue camera light appears when the camera is turned on. For
more information about camera features, see "Specifications" on page 163.
NOTE: It is normal for the camera to feel warm to the touch when the computer is running and when the
camera is in use.
Accessing the Camera’s Help File
To access the camera’s Video Software Help file, right-click the icon in the notification area and
click Help.
1directional microphone 2camera 3blue camera light
3
12
46 Using the Optional Camera
Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings
If you do not want the camera to use automatic settings, you can manually adjust the camera settings.
1Double-click the icon
in the notification area and click
Camera Settings
.
2
In the
Camera Settings
window:
• Click the
Video
tab to adjust video settings, such as contrast and brightness.
• Click the
Audio
tab to adjust audio settings, such as the volume level.
For more information about camera settings and other camera-related topics, see the camera’s Video
Software Help file (see "Accessing the Camera’s Help File" on page 45).
Creating a Picture or a Video
1
Click the icon in the notification area and click
QuickCapture
.
or
Press the shutter button to launch the QuickCapture application.
Using the Optional Camera 47
The
QuickCapture
window appears and the blue camera light turns on. You can now direct the camera
to point at the object or person that you want to record. The
QuickCapture
window on the screen
shows you the camera target view.
2
To take a picture
, click
Take a Picture
, or press the shutter button.
To record a video
, click
Record a Video
.
Unless you designate a different location, the picture or video is automatically saved to the
My
Pictures
folder on your hard drive.
For more information about creating pictures or videos, see the camera’s Video Software Help file (see
"Accessing the Camera’s Help File" on page 45).
1shutter button
1
48 Using the Optional Camera
Using Multimedia 49
Using Multimedia
Playing a CD or DVD
NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you
are not using the drive.
NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs.
NOTE: Depending on the aspect ratio of your display, movies may display differently.
1
Press the eject button on the front of the drive.
2
Pull out the tray.
1CD/DVD tray
1
50 Using Multimedia
3
Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray and snap the disc onto the spindle.
NOTE: If you use a CD/DVD drive that shipped with another computer, you may need to install the drivers and
software necessary to play CDs or DVDs or write data. For more information, see the Drivers and Utilities CD (the
Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not be available for your computer or in certain countries).
4
Push the tray back into the drive.
To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came
with your computer.
NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.
Adjusting the Volume
NOTE: When the audio output is muted, you do not hear sound from speakers or headphones.
1
Double-click the speaker icon in the taskbar.
or
Click
Start
→
All Programs
→
Accessories
→
Entertainment
→
Volume Control
.
2
In the
Volume Control
window, click and drag the bar in the
Volume Control
column and slide it up
or down to increase or decrease the volume.
For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.
The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either click the
icon in the taskbar and select or deselect Disable On Screen Volume Meter or press the media-
control volume buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.
When the Volume Meter is enabled, adjust the volume with the media control volume-up and volume-
down buttons.
1volume icon 2Volume Meter 3mute icon
1
3
2
Using Multimedia 51
Adjusting the Picture
If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory
and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties.
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Control Panel
.
2
Under
Pick a category
, click
Appearance and Themes
.
3
Under
Pick a task...
, click
Change the screen resolution
.
4
In the
Display Properties
window, click and drag the bar in
Screen resolution
to reduce the screen
resolution setting.
5
Click the drop-down menu under
Color quality
, and then click
Medium (16 bit)
.
6
Click
OK
to save the settings and close the window.
Copying CDs and DVDs
NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when creating CDs or DVDs.
This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD (combo)
drive.
NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD 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 DVD
NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive and you
experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at
www.sonic.com.
The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and
DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.
52 Using Multimedia
NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus.
1
Click
Start
→
All Programs
→
Roxio
→
Creator Projects
→
RecordNow Copy
.
2
Under the
Copy
tab, click
Disc Copy
.
3
To copy the CD or DVD:
•
If you have one CD/DVD drive
, ensure that the settings are correct, and then click
Disc Copy
. 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/DVD drives
, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or
DVD, and then click
Disc
Copy
. The computer copies the data from the source CD or DVD to the
blank CD or DVD.
Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created
automatically ejects.
Using Blank CDs and DVDs
CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed CD-RW media) while
DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.
Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After the maximum storage capacity of
a CD-R is reached, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more
information). Use blank CD-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on the CD later.
Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of data. 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 the disc later.
CD-Writable Drives
Media Type Read Write Rewritable
CD-R Yes Yes No
CD-RW Yes Yes Yes
Using Multimedia 53
DVD-Writable Drives
Helpful 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 may not play in
many 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 blank space to finalize the recording.
• Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If
you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank
CD-RWs to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.
• See the Sonic website at
www.sonic.com
for additional information.
Media Type Read Write Rewritable
CD-R Yes Yes No
CD-RW Yes Yes Yes
DVD+R Yes Yes No
DVD-R Yes Yes No
DVD+RW Yes Yes Yes
DVD-RW Yes Yes Yes
DVD+R DL Yes Yes No
DVD-R DL Maybe No No
DVD-RAM Maybe No No
54 Using Multimedia
Using Dell Media Experience and Dell MediaDirect™
Based on configuration settings and selections you made when ordering your computer, your computer
provides support for:
• Dell Media Experience — A multimedia user interface for accessing and playing digital media such as
music and videos
• Dell MediaDirect — An instant-on multimedia playback mode for digital media
NOTE: Dell QuickSet is necessary for Dell MediaDirect to function. Changing or disabling QuickSet’s default
settings can limit Dell MediaDirect’s functionality. For more information about Dell QuickSet, see "Dell™ QuickSet"
on page 137.
Press the Dell MediaDirect button, located on the hinge cover, to launch either Dell Media Experience
or Dell MediaDirect.
If the Computer Is Turned On or in Standby Mode
If you press the Dell MediaDirect button while the computer is 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 installed, Windows XP Media Center Manager will launch.
NOTE: If both Windows XP Media Center and Dell Media Experience are installed on your computer, you must
launch Dell Media Experience through Start
→
Programs or click the Media Experience icon on the desktop.
If the Computer Is Turned Off or in Hibernate Mode
When 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 program.
NOTICE: You cannot reinstall the Dell Media Experience or Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the
hard drive. You will need the installation software to reinstall these media application programs. Contact Dell for
assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
Using Multimedia 55
Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience Help
The Dell media application program on your computer provides help information. When you launch
either program, click the desktop icon for additional help.
1Dell MediaDirect button
1
56 Using Multimedia
Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device
NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio device are not included with
your computer. Cables and component video adapters are available for purchase from Dell.
Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with a standard S-video cable (available
from Dell), enables you to connect the computer to a TV.
Your TV has either an S-video input connector, a composite video-input connector, or a component
video-input connector. Depending on what type of connector is available on your TV, you can use a
commercially available S-video cable, composite video cable, or component video cable to connect your
computer to your TV.
1S-video TV-out connector 3S/PDIF digital audio
connector
5S-video connector
2composite video adapter 4composite video-output
connector
1S-video TV-out connector 3S/PDIF digital audio
connector
5Pb (blue) component
video-output connector
2component video adapter 4Pr (red) component video-
output connector
6Y (green) component
video-output connector
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
12
6
Using Multimedia 57
It is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the following
combinations.
NOTE: See the diagrams at the beginning of each subsection to help you determine which method of connection
you should use.
• S-video and standard audio
• Composite video and standard audio
• Component-out video and standard audio
When you finish connecting the video and audio cables between your computer and your TV, you must
enable your computer to work with the TV. See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft®
Windows® XP" on page 68 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
Additionally, if you are using S/PDIF digital audio, see "Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio" on page 67.
S-Video and Standard Audio
1audio connector 2S-video TV-out connector
1standard S-video cable 2standard audio cable
1
2
1
2
58 Using Multimedia
1
Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
NOTE: You can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer (without the
component video adapter) if your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio.
2
Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the computer.
3
Plug the other end of the S-video cable into the S-video input connector on your TV.
4
Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on your computer.
5
Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on
your TV or other audio device.
6
Turn on the TV and any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the
computer.
7
See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft
®
Windows
®
XP" on page 68 to ensure that
the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio
1S-video TV-out connector 2composite video adapter
1 2
Using Multimedia 59
1
Turn off the computer and the TV and/or the audio device that you want to connect.
2
Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.
3
Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the composite video adapter.
4
Plug the other end of the S-video cable into the S-video input connector on the TV.
5
Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the digital audio connector on the composite video
adapter cable.
6
Plug the other end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the audio input connector on your TV or
audio device.
7
Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the
computer.
1composite video adapter 2S-video cable 3S/PDIF digital audio cable
1composite video adapter 2S-video cable
1composite video adapter 2S/PDIF digital audio cable
1
2
3
12
1 2
60 Using Multimedia
8
See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft
®
Windows
®
XP" on page 68 to ensure that
the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
Composite Video and Standard Audio
1
Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
2
Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.
3
Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video-output connector on the
composite video adapter.
1audio input connector 2S-video TV-out connector 3composite video adapter
1composite video adapter 2composite video cable 3standard audio cable
2
1
3
1
2
3
Using Multimedia 61
4
Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the TV.
5
Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on the computer.
6
Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the audio input connectors on
your TV or other audio device.
7
Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the
computer.
8
See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft
®
Windows
®
XP" on page 68 to ensure that
the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio
1composite video adapter 2composite video cable
1S-video TV-out connector 2composite video adapter
2
1
1 2
62 Using Multimedia
1
Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
2
Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.
3
Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the composite
video adapter.
4
Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the TV.
5
Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the S/PDIF audio connector on the composite
video adapter.
1composite video adapter 2composite video cable 3standard audio cable
1composite video adapter 2composite video cable
1composite video adapter 2S/PDIF digital audio cable
1
2
3
2
1
1 2
Using Multimedia 63
6
Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other
audio device.
7
Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the
computer.
8
See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft
®
Windows
®
XP" on page 68 to ensure that
the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
Component Video and Standard Audio
1S-video TV-out connector 2component video adapter
1component video adapter 2component video cable 3standard audio cable
2
1
1
2
3
64 Using Multimedia
1
Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
2
Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.
3
Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the
component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the
corresponding adapter ports.
4
Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable into the component video-
input connectors on the TV. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the
colors of the TV input connectors.
5
Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on the computer.
6
Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on
your TV or audio device.
7
Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the
computer.
8
See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft
®
Windows
®
XP" on page 68 to ensure that
the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
1component video adapter 2component video cable
21
Using Multimedia 65
Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio
1S-video TV-out connector 2component video adapter
1component video adapter 2component video cable 3standard audio cable
1 2
1
2
3
66 Using Multimedia
1
Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
2
Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.
3
Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the
component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the
corresponding adapter ports.
4
Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable into the component video-
input connectors on the TV. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the
colors of the TV input connectors.
5
Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the S/PDIF audio connector on the component
video adapter.
6
Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other
audio device.
7
Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the
computer.
8
See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft
®
Windows
®
XP" on page 68 to ensure that
the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
1component video adapter 2component video-output
connectors
3component video cable
1component video adapter 2S/PDIF digital audio cable
31
2
2
1
Using Multimedia 67
Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio
If your computer has a DVD drive, you can enable digital audio for DVD playback.
1
Click
Start
, point to
All
Programs
, and click
PowerDVD
to launch the
Cyberlink PowerDVD
application.
2
Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.
If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.
3
Click the
Settings
option.
4
Click the
DVD
option.
5
Click the
DVD Audio Setting
icon.
6
Click the arrows beside the
Speaker Configuration
setting to scroll through the options, and select the
SPDIF
option.
7
Click the
Back
button once, and then click the
Back
button again to return to the main menu screen.
Enabling S/PDIF in the Windows Audio Driver
1
Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area.
2
Click the
Options
menu and then click
Advanced Controls
.
3
Click
Advanced
.
4
Click
S/PDIF Interface
.
5
Click
Close
.
6
Click
OK
.
Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones
NOTE: The CL headphone feature is available only if your computer has a DVD drive.
If your computer has a DVD drive, you can enable digital audio for DVD playback.
1
Click
Start
, and point to
All Programs
, and click
PowerDVD
to launch the
Cyberlink PowerDVD
program.
2
Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.
If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.
3
Click the
Settings
option.
4
Click the
DVD
option.
5
Click the
DVD Audio Setting
icon.
6
Click the arrows beside the
Speaker Configuration
setting to scroll through the options, and select the
Headphones
option.
68 Using Multimedia
7
Click the arrows beside the
Audio listening mode
setting to scroll through the options, and select the
CL Headphone
option.
8
Click the arrows beside the
Dynamic range compression
option to select the most suitable option.
9
Click the
Back
button once, and then click the
Back
button again to return to the main menu screen.
Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft® Windows® XP
Video Controller
NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the computer before you enable the
display settings.
1
Click the
Start
button, point to
Settings
, and then click
Control Panel
.
2
Double-click
Display
and click the
Settings
tab.
3
Click
Advanced
.
4
Click the tab for your video card.
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.
5
In the display devices section, select the appropriate option for using either a single display or multiple
displays, ensuring that the display settings are correct for your selection.
Sound Modes
Your computer is designed to run on two different sound modes—stereo and 5.1 surround sound.
Stereo Sound Mode
Your computer ships with stereo sound mode as the default. For this mode, the computer is equipped
with two different headphone connectors and a microphone/line-in connector at the front of the
computer. You can simultaneously use two sets of headphones or other sound output devices and a
microphone or other sound input device.
5.1 Surround Sound Mode
To switch to 5.1 surround sound mode, you need to connect a speaker’s three differently colored cable
connectors—green, yellow, and black—to the headphone and microphone connectors at the front of the
computer.
NOTE: You must connect the speaker’s black cable connector first or the 5.1 surround sound mode does not work.
1
Connect the speaker’s black cable connector to the microphone/line-in connector at the front of the
computer.
A pop-up menu appears, giving the status of which connectors are plugged in to each jack.
Using Multimedia 69
2
Connect the speaker’s green cable connector to the left headphone connector.
3
Connect the speaker’s yellow cable connector to the right headphone connector.
1black cable connector
1
70 Using Multimedia
1green cable connector 2yellow cable connector
2
1
Using Cards 71
Using Cards
ExpressCards
ExpressCards leverage PC Card technology to provide a fast and convenient way to add memory,
wired and wireless network communications (including wireless wide area network [WWAN]
communications), multimedia, and security features to your computer.
See "Specifications" on page 163 for information on supported ExpressCards.
NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.
ExpressCard Blanks
Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the ExpressCard slot. Blanks protect unused
slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no ExpressCard is installed in the
slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer.
To remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 72.
Installing an ExpressCard
You can install an ExpressCard in the computer while the computer is running. The computer
automatically detects the card.
ExpressCards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) or a label to
indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card
orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
To install an ExpressCard:
1
Hold the card with the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need to be in the "in" position
before you insert the card.
72 Using Cards
2
Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.
If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again.
The computer recognizes the ExpressCard and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the
configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the floppy disk or CD that came
with the ExpressCard.
Removing an ExpressCard or Blank
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTICE: Use the ExpressCard configuration utility (click the icon in the taskbar) to select a card and stop it
from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration utility, you
could lose data.
Press the latch and remove the card or blank. For some latches, you must press the latch twice: once to
pop the latch out, and then a second time to pop the card out.
Save a blank to use when no ExpressCard is installed in a slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and
other particles.
Using Cards 73
Media Memory Cards
The 5-in-1 media memory card reader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital
photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card.
NOTE: A media memory card is not a bootable device.
The 5-in-1 media memory card reader reads the following media memory cards:
• Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO
• MultiMediaCard (MMC)
• Memory Stick
• Memory Stick PRO
• xD-Picture Card
Installing a Media Memory Card
You can install a media memory card in the computer while the computer is running. The computer
automatically detects the card.
Media memory cards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) or a label to
indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card
orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
74 Using Cards
To install a media memory card:
1
Hold the card with the top side of the card facing up.
2
Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.
If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again.
The computer recognizes the media memory card and automatically loads the appropriate device driver.
If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the CD that came with the
media memory card, if applicable.
Removing a Media Memory Card
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTICE: Use the media memory card configuration utility (click the icon in the taskbar) to select a card and
stop it from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration
utility, you could lose data.
Press the card in to release it from the card reader so that it is partially ejected, and remove the card.
Using Networks 75
Using Networks
Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem
Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a network adapter
installed and a network cable connected to it.
To connect a network cable:
1
Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.
NOTE: Insert the cable connector until it clicks into place, and then gently pull the cable to ensure that it is
securely attached.
2
Connect 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.
76 Using Networks
Network Setup Wizard
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through
the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small
office.
1
Click
Start
→
All Programs
→
Accessories
→
Communications
→
Network Setup Wizard
→
Next
→
Checklist for creating a network
.
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).
2
Complete the checklist.
3
Return 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 Connection
Before 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 Card
Depending 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 computer
Using Networks 77
Start Button and Connect To Option
1
Click
Start
→
Connect To
→
Show all connections
.
If
Wireless Network Connection
does not appear under
LAN or High-Speed Internet
, you may not
have a wireless network card.
If
Wireless Network Connection
appears, you have a wireless network card.
2
To view detailed information about the wireless network card:
a
Right-click
Wireless Network Connection.
b
Click
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
→
Settings
→
Network Connections. If Wireless Network Connection does not appear, you may not have a
wireless network card.
The Order Confirmation for Your Computer
The order confirmation that you received when you ordered your computer lists the hardware and
software that shipped with your computer.
Setting Up a New WLAN
Connecting a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem
1
Contact your Internet service provider (ISP) to obtain specific information about the connection
requirements for your broadband modem.
2
Ensure 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.
3
Install 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.
4
Shut down your computer and any other wireless-enabled computers in the vicinity through the
Start
menu.
5
Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.
6
Disconnect 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.
7
Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that there is no power connected
to the router.
8
Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered broadband modem.
78 Using Networks
9
Connect the other end of the network cable into the Internet network (RJ-45) connector on the
unpowered wireless router.
10
Ensure 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.
11
Tu 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.
12
Turn on your wireless router and wait for at least 2 minutes for the wireless router to stabilize. After
2 minutes, proceed to step 13.
13
Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.
14
See 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.
15
If 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.
Using Networks 79
Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager
Depending on the software installed on your computer, different wireless configuration utilities may
manage your network devices:
• Your wireless network card’s client utility
• The Windows XP operating system
To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network card:
1
Click
Start
→
Settings
→
Control Panel
→
Network Connections
.
2
Right-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:
1
Click
Start
→
Help and Support
.
2
Under
Pick a Help topic
, click
Dell User and System Guides
.
s
3
Under
Device Guides
, select the documentation for your wireless network card.
Completing the Connection to the WLAN
When 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 1 minute to connect to the network.
80 Using Networks
Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell™ QuickSet
The wireless activity indicator(s) provide you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s
wireless devices. The indicator(s) display 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(s) change to display the status.
You can turn on or off the option to have wireless activity indicator(s) appear when you use the wireless
switch to enable or disable wireless network connections. Click the Dell QuickSet icon in your taskbar,
click Hotkey Popups, and select or deselect Wireless Activity Indicator Off.
For more information about the wireless activity indicator(s), see the Dell QuickSet Help file.For
information about QuickSet and how to access the Dell QuickSet Help file, see "Dell™ QuickSet" on
page 137.
Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)
A Mobile Broadband network, also known as a Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN), is a high-speed
digital cellular network that provides Internet access over a much wider geographical area than a Wireless
Local Area Network (WLAN), which typically covers only from 100 to 1000 feet. Your computer can
maintain Mobile Broadband network access as long as the computer is within a cellular-data coverage
zone. Contact your Service Provider for coverage of a high-speed digital cellular network.
NOTE: Even if you are able to make a call from your cellular phone in a specific geographical location, that
location may not necessarily be within a cellular-data coverage zone.
What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection
NOTE: Depending on your computer, you can use either a Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or Mini-Card, but not
both, to establish a Mobile Broadband network connection.
To set up a Mobile Broadband network connection, you need:
• A Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or Mini-Card (depending on your computer’s configuration)
NOTE: For instructions on using ExpressCards, see "Using Cards" on page 71.
• Activated Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or activated Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) for your
service provider
• 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 13.
Using Networks 81
Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card
Depending 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
To check your Mobile Broadband card in the Help and Support Center:
1
Click
Start
→
Help and Support
→
Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose
problems
.
2
Under
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 or Mini-Cards. They do not apply to
internal cards with 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:
1
Click the
Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon, ,
on the Windows desktop, to run the utility.
2
Click
Connect
.
NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button.
3
Follow the instructions on the screen to manage the network connection with the utility.
or
1
Click
Start
→
All Programs
→
Dell Wireless
.
2
Click
Dell Wireless Broadband
and follow the instructions on the screen.
82 Using Networks
Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card
NOTE: If you are unable to connect to a Mobile Broadband network, ensure that you have all the components for
establishing a Mobile Broadband connection (see "What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network
Connection" on page 80), and then verify that your Mobile Broadband card is enabled by verifying the setting of the
wireless switch.
You can turn your computer’s wireless devices on and off with the wireless switch on the left side of the
computer (see "Left Side View" on page 20).
If the switch is in the "on" position, move the switch to the "off" position to disable the switch and the
Mobile Broadband card. If the switch is in the "off" position, move the switch to the "on" position to
enable the switch and the Dell Mobile Broadband card. For information about the wireless switch
positions, see "wireless switch" on page 20.
To monitor the status of your wireless device, see "Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card
Through Dell™ QuickSet" on page 80.
Dell™ Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator
The wireless switch on your Dell computer uses the Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator software to
scan specifically for WiFi wireless local area networks (LAN) in your vicinity.
To scan for WiFi networks, slide the switch toward the front of the computer and release, so that the
switch springs back to the middle "on" position. To turn off the network locator function, slide the switch
to the back or "off" position. The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator software functions regardless of
whether your computer is turned on or off, in hibernate mode, or in standby mode, as long as the switch
is configured through QuickSet or the BIOS (system setup program) to control WiFi network
connections.
For more information on the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator software and to enable the feature through
QuickSet, see the Dell QuickSet Help file. To access the Help file, right-click the icon in the taskbar
and click Help.
Microsoft® Windows® Firewall
The 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: 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 13
.
Securing Your Computer 83
Securing Your Computer
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
Passwords prevent unauthorized access to your computer. When using passwords, observe the
following guidelines:
• Choose a password that you can remember, but not one that is easy to guess. For example, do not
use the names of family members or pets for passwords.
• It is recommended that you do not write down your password. If you do write it down, however,
ensure that the password is stored in a secure place.
84 Securing Your Computer
• Do not share your password with other people.
• Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password.
NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. 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 (or Mini-Cards) with encryption features.
Use the User Accounts option in the Control Panel in the Microsoft® Windows® operating system to
create user accounts or to change passwords. Once you create a user password, you must enter it each
time you turn on or unlock your computer. If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the
computer returns to its previous operating state.
For more information, see your Windows documentation.
Computer Tracking Software
Computer 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. 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.
Troubleshooting 85
Troubleshooting
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software
Problems" on page 97 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with your computer.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also
known as the ResourceCD).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
1
Shut down the computer.
2
Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3
Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:
a
Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select
Diagnostics
from the boot menu and press <Enter>.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the
Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
b
Press and hold the <Fn> key while powering the system on.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell
Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities CD.
86 Troubleshooting
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 <n>; 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.
If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you receive the message
Booting Dell
Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue
.
4
Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD
1
Insert the
Drivers and Utilities
CD.
2
Shut down and restart the computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows
desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer boots
according to the devices specified in the system setup program.
3
When the boot device list appears, highlight
CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive
and press <Enter>.
4
Select the
Boot from CD-ROM
option from the menu that appears and press <Enter>.
5
Ty p e
1
to start the
ResourceCD
menu and press <Enter> to proceed.
6
Select
Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics
from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select
the version appropriate for your computer.
7
When the Dell Diagnostics
Main Menu
appears, select the test you want to run.
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
1
After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the
Main
Menu
screen appears, click the button for the option
you want.
Option Function
Express Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes
10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your
part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of
tracing the problem quickly.
Troubleshooting 87
2
If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the
problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the
screen.
If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell,
technical support will ask for your Service Tag.
3
If you run a test from the
Custom Test
or
Symptom Tree
option, click the applicable tab described in
the following table for more information.
Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically
takes 1 hour or more and requires you to answer
questions periodically.
Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you
want to run.
Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and
allows you to select a test based on the symptom of the
problem you are having.
Tab Function
Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions
encountered.
Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and
the problem description.
Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for
running the test.
Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected
device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information
for all devices from the system setup program, memory,
and various internal tests, and it displays the information
in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The
device list may not display the names of all the
components installed on your computer or all devices
attached to your computer.
Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test
settings.
Option Function
88 Troubleshooting
4
When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the
Drivers and Utilities
CD
,
remove the CD.
5
When the tests are completed, 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 Utility
The 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 Utility
Access 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:
1
Click the
Start
button and point to
Programs
.
2
Click
Dell Support
and point to
Dell Support Settings
.
3
Ensure 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.
Clicking the Dell Support Icon
Click 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 off
Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon
Double-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.
Troubleshooting 89
Drive Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE —Click the Start button and click My
Computer. If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive, is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software
to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
TEST THE DRIVE —
• Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.
• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.
CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK —See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 173.
ENSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED ONTO THE SPINDLE
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
CHECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES —See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on
page 108.
RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS —See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 85.
CD and DVD drive problems
NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in
the drive or the CD or DVD.
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.
Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive
CLOSE 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 "Power
Management Modes" on page 41 for information on standby mode.
CHANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE —
See the help files for your CD or DVD creation software.
If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray
1
Ensure that the computer is shut down.
2
Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive; push firmly until
the tray is partially ejected.
3
Gently pull out the tray until it stops.
90 Troubleshooting
If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound
• Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.
• Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.
Hard drive problems
ALLOW 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 —
1
Click the
Start
button and click
My Computer
.
2
Right-click
Local Disk C:
.
3
Click
Properties
.
4
Click the
Tools
tab.
5
Under
Error-checking
, click
Check Now
.
6
Click
Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors
.
7
Click
Start
.
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions 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.
CHECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS —
If you cannot open your e-mail
attachments:
1
In Outlook Express, click
Tools
, click
Options
, and then click
Security
.
2
Click
Do not allow attachments
to remove the checkmark.
CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION
CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK
CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK
USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE—
• Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem. (The jack has either a green label
or a connector-shaped icon next to it.)
• Ensure that you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.
• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.
Troubleshooting 91
• 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
Programs
and then click
Modem
Helper
. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is
not available on certain computers.)
VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Control Panel
.
2
Click
Printers and Other Hardware
.
3
Click
Phone and Modem Options
.
4
Click the
Modems
tab.
5
Click the COM port for your modem.
6
Click
Properties
, click the
Diagnostics
tab, and then click
Query Modem
to verify that the modem is
communicating with Windows.
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
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
.
Error Messages
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running
when the message appeared.
AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE —The touch pad, track stick, or external mouse may be faulty. For an external
mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program (see
"Using the System Setup Program" on page 171). If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting
Dell" on page 141.
BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME —Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces in the
proper place, and used the correct pathname.
92 Troubleshooting
CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE —The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed. Contact
Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE —The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer. See
"Drive Problems" on page 89.
DATA ERROR —The hard drive cannot read the data. See "Drive Problems" on page 89.
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 119.
DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION —The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in the Dell
Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 85.
DRIVE NOT READY —The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it can continue. Install a hard
drive in the hard drive bay. See "Hard Drive" on page 116.
ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD —The computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert the card or
try another card. See "ExpressCards" on page 71.
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 141.
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 119.
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. Shut down the
computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 116), and boot the computer from a CD.
Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard-Disk
Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 85).
HARD-DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0—The hard drive does not respond to commands from the
computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 116), and boot the
computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If
the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see
page 85).
HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE —The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer. Shut
down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 116), and boot the computer from
a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem
persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 85).
Troubleshooting 93
HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE —The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer, remove
the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 116), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the
computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive.
Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 85).
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 "Using
the System Setup Program" on page 171).
KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE —For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard
Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 85).
KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE —For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Restart the
computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. Run the Keyboard
Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 85).
KEYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE —For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard
Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 85).
KEYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE —For external keyboards or keypads, check the cable connection. Restart
the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the Stuck Key test
in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 85).
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 98.
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 119).
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 and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory"
on page 119).
MEMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC 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 119).
MEMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC 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 119).
94 Troubleshooting
MEMORY WRITE/READ 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 119).
NO 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 141.
NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT —A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 85).
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 —Reinstall the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 116). If the problem
persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM —The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell. See "Contacting
Dell" on page 141.
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.
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Control Panel
.
2
Click
Add or Remove Programs
.
3
Select the program you want to remove.
4
Click
Remove
or
Change/Remove
and follow the prompts on the screen.
5
See the program documentation for installation instructions.
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 Windows Help and Support Center for instructions. To access
the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13. If a large number of
sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the hard drive.
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 page 85).
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. See "Using the System Setup Program" on
page 171. If the message reappears, contact Dell.
See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED —The reserve battery that supports the system configuration settings may
require recharging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem
persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
Troubleshooting 95
TIME-OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYSTEM 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
"Using the System Setup Program" on page 171
.
TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED —A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System
Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see page 85).
UNEXPECTED 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 page 85).
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.
ExpressCard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
CHECK THE EXPRESSCARD —
Ensure that the ExpressCard 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 EXPRESSCARD —
Contact Dell.
See "Contacting Dell" on
page 141. Also, for Mobile Broadband (WWAN) ExpressCards, see "For information about troubleshooting
wireless local area networks, see "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 76." on page 99.
IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN EXPRESSCARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —
Contact the ExpressCard
manufacturer.
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 —
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Control Panel
.
2
Click
Printers and Other Hardware
.
If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.
IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED IEEE 1394 DEVICE —Contact Dell or the IEEE 1394
device manufacturer. See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —Contact Dell or the IEEE
1394 device manufacturer. See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS PROPERLY INSERTED INTO THE CONNECTOR
96 Troubleshooting
Keyboard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you
attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
External Keyboard problems
NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE —Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for
damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.
If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the
computer.
CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —
1
Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.
2
Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.
3
From the Windows desktop, click the
Start
button, point to
Programs
→
Accessories
, and then click
Notepad
.
4
Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.
TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD, CHECK THE INTEGRATED KEYBOARD —
1
Shut down the computer.
2
Disconnect the external keyboard.
3
Turn on the computer.
4
From the Windows desktop, click the
Start
button, point to
Programs
→
Accessories
, and click
Notepad
.
5
Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external
keyboard. Contact Dell.
See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
RUN THE KEYBOARD DIAGNOSTICS TESTS —
Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell
Diagnostics
(see page 85)
. If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell.
See "Contacting
Dell" on page 141.
Unexpected characters
DISABLE 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.
Troubleshooting 97
Lockups and Software Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
The computer does not start up
ENSURE 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 responding or crashes repeatedly
END THE PROGRAM —
1
Press <Crtl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.
2
Click the
Applications
tab and select the program that is no longer responding.
3
Click
End Task
.
NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen.
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION —If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program. Software
usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.
A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system
RUN 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.
1
Click the
Start
button, point to
Programs
→
Accessories
, and then click
Program Compatibility
Wizard
.
2
In the welcome screen, click
Next
.
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
A solid blue screen appears
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.
98 Troubleshooting
Dell MediaDirect™ problems
CHECK 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 voluntarily reformat the hard drive. Contact Dell
for assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 141.
Other software problems
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING
INFORMATION —
• Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.
• Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software.
See the software documentation for information.
• Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
• Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.
• If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY
USE A VIRUS-SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE, FLOPPY DISKS, OR CDS
SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER THROUGH THE Start MENU
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.
Troubleshooting 99
RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS —If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a software
problem. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 85.
Memory Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —
• Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the
problem.
• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional
memory
(see "Memory" on page 119)
.
• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the
memory
(see "Memory" on page 119)
.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics
(see page 85)
.
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —
• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the
memory
(see "Memory" on page 119)
.
• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines
(see "Memory" on page 119)
.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics
(see page 85)
.
Network Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR —
Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the
network connector on the back of the computer and the network wall 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.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
For information about troubleshooting wireless local area networks, see "Wireless Local Area Network
(WLAN)" on page 76.
100 Troubleshooting
Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network)
NOTE: The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide and the Mobile Broadband ExpressCard user’s guide
are available through the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see
"Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13. You can also download the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility
user’s guide from support.dell.com.
NOTE: Remove any network cables from the computer and disable the WLAN card. To disable the WLAN card,
click Start
→
Connect To
→
Wireless Network Connection
→
Disable.
NOTE: The icon will appear in the notification area if the computer has a Dell Mobile Broadband (wireless
wide area network [WWAN]) device installed. Double-click the icon to launch the utility.
ACTIVATE THE MOBILE BROADBAND EXPRESSCARD —You must activate the Mobile Broadband
ExpressCard before you can connect to the network. Position the mouse over the icon in the
notification area to verify the status of the connection. If the card is not activated, follow the card
activation instructions located within the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility. To access the utility,
double-click the icon located in the taskbar, at the lower-right corner of your screen. If your
ExpressCard is not a Dell-branded card, see the manufacturer’s instructions for your card.
CHECK NETWORK CONNECTION STATUS IN DELL MOBILE BROADBAND CARD UTILITY —Double-click the
icon to launch the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility. Check the status in the main window:
•
No card detected
— Restart the computer, and launch the
Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility
again.
•
Check your WWAN service
— Contact your cellular service provider to verify your plan coverage and
supported services.
Power Problems
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.
NOTE: For information on standby mode, see "Power Management Modes" on page 41.
CHARGE THE BATTERY —
The battery charge may be depleted.
1
Reinstall the battery.
2
Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3
Turn on the computer.
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 101
If the battery status light flashes green and orange, the battery is too hot to charge. Shut down the
computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and computer
cool to room temperature.
If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. Contact Dell. See
"Contacting Dell" on page 141.
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 "Power Management Modes" on page 41.
RESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES —
If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank,
reinstall the memory modules
(see "Memory" on page 119).
Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer
Your computer is designed to use the 65-W AC adapter that shipped with your computer; for optimum
system performance, you should always use this adapter.
Printer Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s manufacturer.
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.
102 Troubleshooting
VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —
1
Click the
Start
button, click
Control Panel
, and then click
Printers and Other Hardware
.
2
Click
View installed printers or fax printers
.
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.
3
Click
Properties
and click the
Ports
tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that the
Print to the following
port(s):
setting is
LPT1 (Printer Port)
. For a USB printer, ensure that the
Print to the following
port(s):
setting is
USB
.
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 PRINTER DOCUMENTATION —
See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting
information.
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 —
1
Click the
Start
button, click
Control Panel
, and then click
Printers and Other Hardware
.
2
Click
Scanners and Cameras
.
If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.
REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER —
See the scanner documentation for instructions.
Sound and Speaker Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
Troubleshooting 103
No sound from integrated speakers
ADJUST 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.
REINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER —
See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 106.
No sound from external speakers
ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON —
See the setup diagram supplied with
the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate
distortion.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —
Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner
of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.
DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR —
Sound from the speakers is automatically
disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET —
Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another
device, such as a lamp.
ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE —
Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check
for interference.
REINSTALL THE AUDIO DRIVER —See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 106.
RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS —See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 85.
NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been listening
to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.
No sound from headphones
CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION —Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into
the headphone connector (see page 22).
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 Problems
CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —
1
Click the
Start
button, click
Control Panel
, and then click
Printers and Other Hardware
.
2
Click
Mouse
.
3
Try adjusting the settings.
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.
104 Troubleshooting
TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE, CHECK THE TOUCH PAD —
1
Shut down the computer.
2
Disconnect the mouse.
3
Turn on the computer.
4
At the Windows
desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it.
If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.
REINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER —
See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 106.
Video and Display Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
If the display is blank
NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer supports, it is
recommended that you attach an external monitor to your computer.
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. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.
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 read
ADJUST 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.
ELIMINATE 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.
Troubleshooting 105
ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —
1
Click the
Start
button and then click
Control Panel
.
2
Click
Appearance and Themes
.
3
Click the area you want to change or click the
Display
icon.
4
Try different settings for
Color quality
and
Screen resolution
.
SEE "ERROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see "Error Messages" on page 91.
If only part of the display is readable
CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —
1
Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.
2
Turn on the computer and the monitor, and adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls.
If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact Dell.
See
"Contacting Dell" on page 141.
Drivers
What Is a Driver?
A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices require a
driver program.
A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device. Each device
has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes.
Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation or
configuration is needed.
NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your computer.
Ensure that you are installing software appropriate for your operating system.
Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft® Windows® operating system. You
may need to install drivers if you:
• Upgrade your operating system.
• Reinstall your operating system.
• Connect or install a new device.
Identifying Drivers
If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem
and, if necessary, update the driver.
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Control Panel
.
2
Under
Pick a Category
, click
Performance and Maintenance
.
106 Troubleshooting
3
Click
System
.
4
In the
System Properties
window, click the
Hardware
tab.
5
Click
Device Manager
.
6
Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [
!]
) on the
device icon.
If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new
driver. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 106.
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and Utilities CD provide approved drivers
for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with your computer.
Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback
If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device Driver
Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Control Panel
.
2
Under
Pick a Category
, click
Performance and Maintenance
.
3
Click
System
.
4
In the
System Properties
window, click the
Hardware
tab.
5
Click
Device Manager
.
6
Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click
Properties
.
7
Click the
Drivers
tab.
8
Click
Roll Back Driver
.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see "Using Microsoft
Windows XP System Restore" on page 108) to return your computer to the operating state that existed
before you installed the new driver.
Using the Drivers and Utilities CD
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with your computer.
If using
Device Driver Rollback
or System Restore does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver
from the Drivers and Utilities CD.
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Insert the
Drivers and Utilities
CD.
In most cases, the CD starts running automatically. If it does not, start Windows Explorer, click your
CD drive directory to display the CD contents, and then double-click the
autorcd.exe
file. The first
Troubleshooting 107
time that you run the CD, it might prompt you to install setup files. Click
OK
, and follow the
instructions on the screen to continue.
3
From the
Language
drop-down menu in the toolbar, select your preferred language for the driver or
utility (if available). A welcome screen appears.
4
Click
Next
.
The CD automatically scans your hardware to detect drivers and utilities used by your computer.
5
After the CD completes the hardware scan, you can also detect other drivers and utilities. Under
Search Criteria
, select the appropriate categories from the
System Model
,
Operating System
, and
Topic
drop-down menus.
A link or links appear(s) for the specific drivers and utilities used by your computer.
6
Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or utility that you
want to install.
7
Click the
Install
button (if present) to begin installing the driver or utility. At the welcome screen,
follow the screen prompts to complete the installation.
If no
Install
button is present, automatic installation is not an option. For installation instructions,
either see the appropriate instructions in the following subsections, or click
Extract
, follow the
extracting instructions, and then read the readme file.
If instructed to navigate to the driver files, click the CD directory on the driver information window to
display the files associated with that driver.
Manually Reinstalling Drivers
NOTE: If your computer has an infrared sensor and you are reinstalling an infrared sensor driver, you must first
enable the infrared sensor in the system setup program (see "Using the System Setup Program" on page 171) before
continuing with the driver installation. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 106. For information about
components installed on your computer, see "Determining Your Computer’s Configuration" on page 15.
1
After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous section, click the
Start
button and right-click
My Computer
.
2
Click
Properties
.
3
Click the
Hardware
tab and click
Device Manager
.
4
Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example,
Modems
or
Infrared devices
).
5
Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
6
Click the
Driver
tab and click
Update Driver
.
7
Click
Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)
and click
Next
.
8
Click
Browse
and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files.
108 Troubleshooting
9
When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click
Next
.
10
Click
Finish
and restart your computer.
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly
configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Help and Support
.
2
Ty p e
hardware troubleshooter
in the
Search
field and click the arrow to start the search.
3
Click
Hardware Troubleshooter
in the
Search Results
list.
4
In the
Hardware Troubleshooter
list, click
I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer
, and
click
Next
.
Restoring Your Operating System
You can restore your operating system in the following ways:
• Microsoft
®
Windows
®
XP System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without
affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your operating system and
preserving data files. For instructions, see "Using Microsoft
Windows XP System Restore" on page 108.
• Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you
purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes
any applications installed after you received the computer. Use PC Restore only if System Restore did
not resolve your operating system problem. For instructions, see "Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec"
on page 110.
• 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. For instructions, see "Using the
Operating System CD" on page 112.
Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore
The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your
computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software,
or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help
and Support Center for additional information on using System Restore. To access help, see "Windows
Help and Support Center" on page 13.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover
them.
Troubleshooting 109
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you
set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.
Creating a Restore Point
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Help and Support
.
2
Click the task for
System Restore
.
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 106) to resolve
the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any
open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1
Click the
Start
button, point to
Programs
→
Accessories
→
System Tools
, and then click
System
Restore
.
2
Ensure that
Restore my computer to an earlier time
is selected and click
Next
.
3
Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
The
Select a Restore Point
screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points.
All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.
4
Select a restore point and click
Next
.
If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected. If two or
more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.
5
Click
Next
.
The
Restoration Complete
screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the
computer restarts.
6
After the computer restarts, click
OK
.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can
undo the restoration.
Undoing the Last System Restore
NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not
alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1
Click the
Start
button, point to
Programs
→
Accessories
→
System Tools
, and then click
System
Restore
.
2
Click
Undo my last restoration
and click
Next
.
110 Troubleshooting
Enabling System Restore
If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is
automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Control
Panel
.
2
Click
Performance and Maintenance
.
3
Click
System
.
4
Click the
System Restore
tab.
5
Ensure that
Turn off System Restore
is unchecked.
Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec
NOTICE: Using Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any application
programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using
PC Restore. Use PC Restore only if System Restore (see "Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on
page 108) did not resolve your operating system problem.
NOTE: Dell PC Restore by Symantec may not be available in certain countries nor on certain computers.
Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system. PC Restore
restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs
or files added since you received your computer—including data files—are permanently deleted from the
hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and
so on. If possible, back up all data before using PC Restore.
To use PC Restore:
1
Turn on the computer.
During the boot process, a blue bar with
www.dell.com
appears at the top of the screen.
2
Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press <Ctrl><F11>.
If you do not press <Ctrl><F11> in time, let the computer finish starting, and then restart the
computer again.
NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the following step.
3
On the next screen that appears, click
Restore
.
4
On the next screen, click
Confirm
.
The restore process takes approximately 6–10 minutes to complete.
5
When prompted, click
Finish
to reboot the computer.
NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot.
Troubleshooting 111
6
When prompted, click
Yes
.
The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the screens that
appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that appeared the first time the
computer was turned on.
7
Click
Next
.
The
System Restore
screen appears and the computer restarts.
8
After the computer restarts, click
OK
.
Removing Dell PC Restore
NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from your
computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your computer’s
operating system.
Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you
purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your computer,
even to gain additional hard-drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard drive, you cannot ever
recall it, and you will never be able to use PC Restore to return your computer’s operating system to its
original state.
To remove PC Restore:
1
Log on to the computer as a local administrator.
2
In Windows Explorer, go to
c:\dell\utilities\DSR
.
3
Double-click the filename
DSRIRRemv2.exe
.
NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator, a message appears stating that you must log on as
administrator. Click Quit, and then log on as a local administrator.
NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer’s hard drive, a message appears stating
that the partition was not found. Click Quit; there is no partition to delete.
4
Click
OK
to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.
5
Click
Yes
when a confirmation message appears.
The PC Restore partition is deleted and the newly available disk space is added to the free space
allocation on the hard drive.
6
Right-click
Local Disk (C)
in Windows Explorer, click
Properties
, and verify that the additional disk
space is available as indicated by the increased value for
Free Space
.
7
Click
Finish
to close the
PC Restore Removal
window.
8
Restart the computer.
112 Troubleshooting
Using the Operating System CD
Before You Begin
If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly
installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback (see page 106). 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 108.
To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:
•Dell™
Operating System
CD
•Dell
Drivers and Utilities
CD
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer. Use the
Drivers and Utilities CD to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from where you ordered your
computer, or whether you requested the CDs, the Drivers and Utilities CD and Operating System CD may not ship
with your computer.
Reinstalling Windows XP
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you
must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files
and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell
technical support representative instructs you to do so.
NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your computer
before you reinstall Windows XP. See the documentation that came with the software for instructions.
1
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2
Insert the
Operating System
CD. Click
Exit
if the
Install Windows XP
message appears.
3
Restart the computer.
4
Press <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.
5
Press the arrow keys to select
CD-ROM
, and press <Enter>.
6
When the
Press any key to boot from CD
message appears, press any key.
7
When the
Windows XP Setup
screen appears, press <Enter>.
8
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the reinstallation.
9
When the operating system reinstallation completes, reinstall drivers and application programs as
necessary. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 106.
Adding and Replacing Parts 113
Adding and Replacing Parts
Before You Begin
This section provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer.
Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:
• You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" (see this page) and "Before
Working Inside Your Computer" (see page 114).
• You have read the safety information in your Dell™
Product Information Guide.
• A component can be replaced—or if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal
procedure in reverse order.
Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
• Small flat-blade screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Small plastic scribe
• Flash BIOS update program CD
Turning Off Your Computer
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off
your computer.
1
Shut down the operating system:
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click
Start
→
Shut Down
→
Shut down
.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.
2
Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached
devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold
the power button for several seconds until the computer turns off.
114 Adding and Replacing Parts
Before Working Inside Your Computer
Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help
ensure your own personal safety.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: 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 pull-tab, 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 help prevent damage to the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside
the computer.
1
Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.
2
Turn off your computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 113.
3
If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that
came with your docking device.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the
network device.
4
Disconnect all telephone or network cables from the computer.
5
Close the display and turn the computer upside-down on a flat work surface.
6
Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets,
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery from the battery bay before you
service the computer.
7
Remove the main battery:
a
Slide the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer until it clicks.
b
Slide the battery out toward the back of the computer and lift to remove the battery from the bay.
Adding and Replacing Parts 115
NOTE: To replace the battery, follow the removal procedure in reverse order. When you are replacing the battery,
ensure that you properly insert the two battery tabs into the corresponding slots in the base of the computer.
8
Press the power button to ground the system board.
9
Remove any installed ExpressCard from the ExpressCard slot.
10
Remove any media from the optical drive, if installed.
11
Remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 116).
Optical Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
1
Turn the computer upside-down.
2
Remove the optical-drive locking screw.
3
Insert a scribe into the notch by the screw hole and push the scribe toward the optical drive bay to
release the optical drive from the bay.
1battery-bay latch release 2battery (9-cell battery shown) 3 battery tabs (2)
1
2
3
116 Adding and Replacing Parts
4
Slide the drive out of the bay.
Hard Drive
CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot, do not touch the metal housing
of the hard drive.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 113) before
removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate
mode.
NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile; even a slight bump can damage the drive.
NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than Dell.
NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to install an operating system,
drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 108 and "Reinstalling
Drivers and Utilities" on page 106).
1optical-drive locking screw 2optical drive
1
2
Adding and Replacing Parts 117
To replace the hard drive in the hard drive bay:
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 113.
2
Turn the computer upside-down and remove the four hard drive screws.
NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. See "Protecting
Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide.
3
Slide the hard drive out of the computer.
1hard drive screws (4) 2hard drive
1
2
118 Adding and Replacing Parts
4
Remove the hard drive from the hard drive carrier by carefully bending the carrier plastics.
5
Remove the new drive from its packaging.
Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.
6
Place the new drive in the hard drive carrier from which you removed the original hard drive.
NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage
the connector.
7
Slide the replacement hard drive in the carrier into the hard drive bay until it is fully seated.
8
Replace and tighten the four hard drive screws.
9
Install the operating system for your computer (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 108).
10
Install the drivers and utilities for your computer (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 106).
1hard drive 2hard drive carrier
1
2
Adding and Replacing Parts 119
Returning a Hard Drive to Dell
Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original or comparable foam packaging. Otherwise, the hard
drive may be damaged in transit.
Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board.
See "Specifications" on page 163 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.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 113.
2
Turn the computer upside-down, loosen the captive screw on the memory module cover, and then
remove the memory module cover.
1foam packaging 2hard drive
2
1
120 Adding and Replacing Parts
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory-module
securing clips.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically
touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
3
If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:
a
Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module
connector until the module pops up.
b
Remove the module from the connector.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error message
indicates this failure.
Adding and Replacing Parts 121
4
Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
a
Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.
b
Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down until it
clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.
5
Replace the memory module cover and fasten the captive screw on the cover.
NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may
damage your computer.
6
Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an
electrical outlet.
7
Reinstall the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 116).
8
Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system
configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click Start
→
Help and Support
→
Dell
System Information.
Hinge Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically
touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
122 Adding and Replacing Parts
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before
you begin working inside the computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 113.
2
Remove the hinge cover:
a
Open the display all the way (180 degrees) so that it lies flat against your work surface.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the hinge cover, do not lift the cover on both sides simultaneously.
b
Insert a plastic scribe into the indent to the right side of the hinge cover.
c
Ease the hinge cover up, moving from right to left, and remove it.
NOTE: When you replace the hinge cover, first insert the left edge and then press down from left to right until the
cover snaps into place.
Keyboard
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically
touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
1hinge cover 2scribe
2
1
Adding and Replacing Parts 123
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before
you begin working inside the computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 113.
2
Open the display.
3
Remove the hinge cover (see "Hinge Cover" on page 121).
4
Remove the keyboard:
a
Remove the three screws at the top of the keyboard.
NOTICE: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace. Be careful
when removing and handling the keyboard.
b
Lift the keyboard only enough to hold it up and slightly forward to allow access to the keyboard
connector.
c
Pull on the pull-tab to release the keyboard cable from the keyboard connector on the system
board.
NOTICE: To avoid scratching the palm rest when replacing the keyboard, hook the tabs along the front edge of the
keyboard into the palm rest, and then press on the right edge near the top to snap the keyboard into place before
replacing the three screws at the top of the keyboard.
1screws (3) 2keyboard 3keyboard-connector pull-tab
2
1
3
124 Adding and Replacing Parts
WLAN Card
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the main battery from the battery bay
before you begin working inside the computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 113.
2
Remove the hinge cover (see "Hinge Cover" on page 121).
3
Remove the keyboard (see "Keyboard" on page 122).
4
Loosen the captive screw on the communications card cover.
Adding and Replacing Parts 125
5
If a WLAN card is not already installed, go to step 6. If you are replacing a WLAN card, remove the
existing card:
a
Disconnect the two antenna cables from the WLAN card.
b
Release the WLAN card by pushing the metal securing tabs toward the back of the computer until
the card pops up slightly.
c
Lift the WLAN card out of its system board connector.
1WLAN card 2antenna cable connectors (2)
2
1
126 Adding and Replacing Parts
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on
the card and on the system board, and realign the card.
6
Install the replacement WLAN card:
a
Insert the WLAN card connector into the system board connector at a 45-degree angle, and then
press the other end of the WLAN card down into the securing tabs until the card clicks into place.
1metal securing tabs (2)
1
Adding and Replacing Parts 127
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the WLAN card, never place cables under the card.
NOTE: Your WLAN card may have two or three connectors, depending on the type of card you ordered.
NOTE: If your computer has a gray cable, connect it to the connector with the gray triangle, if one is available on
your card. For more information about which cable to connect to which connector, see the documentation that
came with your WLAN card.
b
Connect the two antenna cables to the WLAN card
—
connect the black auxiliary antenna cable to
the connector labeled with the black triangle, and connect the white main antenna cable to the
connector labeled with the white triangle.
128 Adding and Replacing Parts
Mobile Broadband Card
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the main battery from the battery bay
before you begin working inside the computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 113.
2
Remove the hinge cover (see "Hinge Cover" on page 121).
3
Remove the keyboard (see "Keyboard" on page 122).
4
Loosen the captive screw on the communications card cover.
1antenna cable connectors (2) 2triangles (2)
1
2
130 Adding and Replacing Parts
b
Release the Mobile Broadband card by pushing the metal securing tabs toward the front of the
computer until the card pops up slightly.
c
Lift the Mobile Broadband card out of its system board connector.
1Mobile Broadband card 2antenna cable connectors (2)
2
1
Adding and Replacing Parts 131
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on
the card and on the system board, and realign the card.
1metal securing tabs (2)
1
132 Adding and Replacing Parts
6
Install the replacement Mobile Broadband card:
a
Insert the Mobile Broadband card connector into the system board connector at a 45-degree angle,
and then press the other end of the Mobile Broadband card down into the securing tabs until the
card clicks into place.
Adding and Replacing Parts 133
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the Mobile Broadband card, never place cables under the card.
b
Connect the two antenna cables to the Mobile Broadband card (black cable to the connector
labeled "AUX" and the white cable to the connector labeled "MAIN").
1antenna cable connectors (2)
1
134 Adding and Replacing Parts
Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Card
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the main battery from the battery bay
before you begin working inside the computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 113.
.
NOTICE: Do not touch the SIM card connectors to protect the card from electrostatic discharge (ESD). To prevent
ESD, hold the card in your hand before you insert or remove the card.
2
With the cut-off corner on the card facing away from the card slot, insert the SIM card into the slot so
that it slides under the metal tabs on the sides.
Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically
touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
1battery-bay latch release 2SIM card
1
2
Adding and Replacing Parts 135
If you ordered a card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer, it is already installed.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the main battery from the battery bay
before you begin working inside the computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 113.
2
Remove the card screw.
3
Using your fingers or a plastic scribe, carefully pull the card out of the compartment so that you can
disconnect the card from its cable and remove it from the computer.
4
To replace the card, connect the card to the cable and then carefully insert the card into the
compartment.
5
Replace the card screw.
1card screw 2internal card with Bluetooth
wireless technology
3card connector
1
2
3
136 Adding and Replacing Parts
Dell™ QuickSet 137
Dell™ 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 information
Depending 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.
138 Dell™ QuickSet
Traveling With Your Computer 139
Traveling With Your Computer
Identifying Your Computer
• Attach a name tag or business card to the computer.
• Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case
• Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell.
• Create a file on the Microsoft
®
Windows
®
desktop called
if_found
. Place information such as
your name, address, and phone number in this file.
• Contact your credit card company and ask if it offers coded identification tags.
Packing the Computer
• Remove any external devices attached to the computer and store them in a safe place. Remove any
cables attached to installed PC Cards, and remove any extended PC Cards ("Using Cards" on
page 71).
• To make the computer as light as possible, replace any devices installed in the module bay with the
Dell TravelLite™ module.
• Fully charge the main battery and any spare batteries that you plan to carry with you.
• Shut down the computer.
• Disconnect the AC adapter.
NOTICE: When the display is closed, extraneous items on the keyboard or palm rest could damage the
display.
• Remove any extraneous items, such as paper clips, pens, and paper, from the keyboard and palm
rest and close the display.
• Use the optional Dell™ carrying case to pack the computer and its accessories together safely.
• Avoid packing the computer with items such as shaving cream, colognes, perfumes, or food.
NOTICE: If the computer has been exposed to extreme temperatures, allow it to acclimate to room
temperature for 1 hour before turning it on.
• Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as extreme temperatures
and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids.
• Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead
storage compartment.
140 Traveling With Your Computer
Travel Tips
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive to prevent loss of data.
NOTICE: Do not check the computer as baggage.
• Consider disabling wireless activity on your computer to maximize battery operating time. To disable
wireless activity, use the wireless switch on the side of computer. For information on using the wireless
switch, see "Dell™ Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 82.
• Consider changing your power management options (see "Configuring Power Management Settings"
on page 43) to maximize battery operating time.
• 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.
• Ensure that you have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn on the computer.
• Prior to entering the airplane, verify that using a computer is permitted. Some airlines forbid the use of
electronic devices during flight. All airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during takeoff and
landing.
Contacting Dell 141
Contacting Dell
To 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 Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Anguilla Website: www.dell.com.ai
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 800-335-0031
Antigua and Barbuda Website: www.dell.com.ag
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
1-800-805-5924
Aomen Technical Support (Dell™ Dimension™, Dell
Inspiron™, Dell OptiPlex™, Dell Latitude™, and
Dell Precision™)
0800-105
Technical Support (servers and storage)
0800-105
142 Contacting Dell
Argentina (Buenos Aires)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 54
City Code: 11
Website: www.dell.com.ar
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
E-mail for desktop and portable computers:
la-techsupport@dell.com
E-mail for servers and EMC
®
storage products:
la_enterprise@dell.com
Customer Care
toll-free: 0-800-444-0730
Technical Support
toll-free: 0-800-444-0733
Technical Support Services
toll-free: 0-800-444-0724
Sales
0-810-444-3355
Aruba Website: www.dell.com.aw
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 800-1578
Australia (Sydney)
International Access Code: 0011
Country Code: 61
City Code: 2
Website: support.ap.dell.com
E-mail: support.ap.dell.com/contactus
Technical Support (XPS)
toll-free: 1300 790 877
General Support
13DELL-133355
Austria (Vienna)
International Access Code: 900
Country Code: 43
City Code: 1
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com
Home/Small Business Sales
0820 240 530 00
Home/Small Business Fax
0820 240 530 49
Home/Small Business Customer Care
0820 240 530 14
Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care
0820 240 530 16
Support for XPS
0820 240 530 81
Home/Small Business Support for all other Dell
computers
0820 240 530 17
Preferred Accounts/Corporate Support
0820 240 530 17
Switchboard
0820 240 530 00
Bahamas Website: www.dell.com.bs
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-866-874-3038
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 143
Barbados Website: www.dell.com/bb
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
1-800-534-3142
Belgium (Brussels)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 32
City Code: 2
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Tech Support for XPS
02 481 92 96
Tech Support for all other Dell computers
02 481 92 88
Tech Support Fax
02 481 92 95
Customer Care
02 713 15 65
Corporate Sales
02 481 91 00
Fax
02 481 92 99
Switchboard
02 481 91 00
Bermuda Website: www.dell.com/bm
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
1-877-890-0751
Bolivia Website: www.dell.com/bo
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 800-10-0238
Brazil
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 55
City Code: 51
Website: www.dell.com/br
E-mail: BR-TechSupport@dell.com
Customer Care and Tech Support
0800 90 3355
Technical Support Fax
51 2104 5470
Customer Care Fax
51 2104 5480
Sales
0800 722 3498
British Virgin Islands General Support
toll-free: 1-866-278-6820
Brunei
Country Code: 673
Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4966
Customer Care (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4888
Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4955
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
144 Contacting Dell
Canada (North York, Ontario)
International Access Code: 011
Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus
Website: support.ca.dell.com
AutoTech (automated Hardware and Warranty
Support)
toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
Customer Service (Home/Home Office)
toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Customer Service (small/med./large business,
government)
toll-free: 1-800-387-5757
Customer Service (printers, projectors, televisions,
handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)
toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Hardware Warranty Phone Support (XPS)
toll-free: 1-866-398-8977
Hardware Warranty Phone Support (Home/Home
Office)
toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Hardware Warranty Phone Support
(small/med./large business, government)
toll-free: 1-800-387-5757
Hardware Warranty Phone Support (printers,
projectors, televisions, handhelds, digital jukebox,
and wireless)
1-877-335-5767
Sales (Home Sales/Small Business)
toll-free: 1-800-387-5752
Sales (med./large bus., government)
toll-free: 1-800-387-5755
Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales
1 866 440 3355
Cayman Islands E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
1-877-262-5415
Chile (Santiago)
Country Code: 56
City Code: 2
Website: www.dell.com/cl
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
Sales and Customer Support
toll-free: 1230-020-4823
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 145
China (Xiamen)
Country Code: 86
City Code: 592
Technical Support website: support.dell.com.cn
Technical Support E-mail:
support.dell.com.cn/email
Customer Care E-mail: customer_cn@dell.com
Technical Support Fax
592 818 1350
Technical Support (XPS)
toll-free: 800 858 0540
Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)
toll-free: 800 858 2969
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)
toll-free: 800 858 0950
Technical Support (servers and storage)
toll-free: 800 858 0960
Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, switches,
routers, and so on)
toll-free: 800 858 2920
Technical Support (printers)
toll-free: 800 858 2311
Customer Care
toll-free: 800 858 2060
Customer Care Fax
592 818 1308
Home and Small Business
toll-free: 800 858 2222
Preferred Accounts Division
toll-free: 800 858 2557
Large Corporate Accounts GCP
toll-free: 800 858 2055
Large Corporate Accounts Key Accounts
toll-free: 800 858 2628
Large Corporate Accounts North
toll-free: 800 858 2999
Large Corporate Accounts North Government and
Education
toll-free: 800 858 2955
Large Corporate Accounts East
toll-free: 800 858 2020
Large Corporate Accounts East Government and
Education
toll-free: 800 858 2669
Large Corporate Accounts Queue Team
toll-free: 800 858 2572
Large Corporate Accounts South
toll-free: 800 858 2355
Large Corporate Accounts West
toll-free: 800 858 2811
Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts
toll-free: 800 858 2621
Colombia Website: www.dell.com/cl
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
01-800-915-4755
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
146 Contacting Dell
Costa Rica Website: www.dell.com/cr
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
0800-012-0231
Czech Republic (Prague)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 420
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com
Technical Support
22537 2727
Customer Care
22537 2707
Fax
22537 2714
Technical Fax
22537 2728
Switchboard
22537 2711
Denmark (Copenhagen)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 45
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Technical Support for XPS
7010 0074
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
7023 0182
Customer Care (Relational)
7023 0184
Home/Small Business Customer Care
3287 5505
Switchboard (Relational)
3287 1200
Switchboard Fax (Relational)
3287 1201
Switchboard (Home/Small Business)
3287 5000
Switchboard Fax (Home/Small Business)
3287 5001
Dominica Website: www.dell.com/dm
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-866-278-6821
Dominican Republic Website: www.dell.com/do
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
1-800-156-1588
Ecuador Website: www.dell.com/ec
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support (calling from Quito)
toll-free: 999-119-877-655-3355
General Support (calling from Guayaquil)
toll-free: 1800-999-119-877-655-
3355
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 147
El Salvador Website: www.dell.com/ec
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
800-6132
Finland (Helsinki)
International Access Code: 990
Country Code: 358
City Code: 9
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: fi_support@dell.com
Technical Support
0207 533 555
Customer Care
0207 533 538
Switchboard
0207 533 533
Sales under 500 employees
0207 533 540
Fax
0207 533 530
Sales over 500 employees
0207 533 533
Fax
0207 533 530
France (Paris) (Montpellier)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 33
City Codes: (1) (4)
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Home and Small Business
Technical Support for XPS
0825 387 129
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
0825 387 270
Customer Care
0825 823 833
Switchboard
0825 004 700
Switchboard (calls from outside of France)
04 99 75 40 00
Sales
0825 004 700
Fax
0825 004 701
Fax (calls from outside of France)
04 99 75 40 01
Corporate
Technical Support
0825 004 719
Customer Care
0825 338 339
Switchboard
01 55 94 71 00
Sales
01 55 94 71 00
Fax
01 55 94 71 01
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
148 Contacting Dell
Germany (Frankfurt)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 49
City Code: 69
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com
Technical Support for XPS
069 9792 7222
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
069 9792-7200
Home/Small Business Customer Care
0180-5-224400
Global Segment Customer Care
069 9792-7320
Preferred Accounts Customer Care
069 9792-7320
Large Accounts Customer Care
069 9792-7320
Public Accounts Customer Care
069 9792-7320
Switchboard
069 9792-7000
Greece
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 30
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Technical Support
00800-44 14 95 18
Gold Service Technical Support
00800-44 14 00 83
Switchboard
2108129810
Gold Service Switchboard
2108129811
Sales
2108129800
Fax
2108129812
Grenada E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-866-540-3355
Guatemala E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
1-800-999-0136
Guyana E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-877-270-4609
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 149
Hong Kong
International Access Code: 001
Country Code: 852
Website: support.ap.dell.com
Technical Support E-mail:
support.dell.com.cn/email
Technical Support (XPS)
00852-3416 6923
Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)
00852-2969 3188
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)
00852-2969 3191
Technical Support (servers and storage)
00852-2969 3196
Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, switches,
routers, and so on)
00852-3416 0906
Customer Care
00852-3416 0910
Large Corporate Accounts
00852-3416 0907
Global Customer Programs
00852-3416 0908
Medium Business Division
00852-3416 0912
Home and Small Business Division
00852-2969 3105
India Website: support.ap.dell.com
E-mail: india_support_desktop@dell.com
india_support_notebook@dell.com
india_support_Server@dell.com
Technical Support (XPS computers)
0802 506 8033
or toll-free: 1800 425 2066
Technical Support (portables, desktops, servers, and
storage)
1600338045
and 1600448046
Sales (Large Corporate Accounts)
1600 33 8044
Sales (Home and Small Business)
1600 33 8046
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
150 Contacting Dell
Ireland (Cherrywood)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 353
City Code: 1
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
Sales
Ireland Sales
01 204 4444
Dell Outlet
1850 200 778
Online Ordering HelpDesk
1850 200 778
Customer Care
Home User Customer Care
01 204 4014
Small Business Customer Care
01 204 4014
Corporate Customer Care
1850 200 982
Technical Support
Technical Support for XPS computers only
1850 200 722
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
1850 543 543
General
Fax/Sales Fax
01 204 0103
Switchboard
01 204 4444
U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)
0870 906 0010
Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)
0870 907 4499
U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only)
0870 907 4000
Italy (Milan)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 39
City Code: 02
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Home and Small Business
Technical Support
02 577 826 90
Customer Care
02 696 821 14
Fax
02 696 821 13
Switchboard
02 696 821 12
Corporate
Technical Support
02 577 826 90
Customer Care
02 577 825 55
Fax
02 575 035 30
Switchboard
02 577 821
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 151
Jamaica E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support (dial from within Jamaica only)
1-800-440-9205
Japan (Kawasaki)
International Access Code: 001
Country Code: 81
City Code: 44
Website: support.jp.dell.com
Technical Support (XPS)
toll-free: 0120-937-786
Technical Support outside of Japan (XPS)
044-520-1235
XPS Customer Care (if ordered items are missing or
have been damaged during shipment)
044-556-4240
Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)
toll-free: 0120-198-226
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and
Inspiron)
81-44-520-1435
Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)
toll-free: 0120-198-433
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision,
OptiPlex, and Latitude)
81-44-556-3894
Technical Support (Dell PowerApp™, Dell
PowerEdge™, Dell PowerConnect™, and Dell
PowerVault™)
toll-free: 0120-198-498
Technical Support outside of Japan (PowerApp,
PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault)
81-44-556-4162
Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, printers,
routers)
toll-free: 0120-981-690
Technical Support outside of Japan (projectors,
PDAs, printers, routers)
81-44-556-3468
Faxbox Service
044-556-3490
24-Hour Automated Order Status Service
044-556-3801
Customer Care
044-556-4240
Business Sales Division (up to 400 employees)
044-556-1465
Preferred Accounts Division Sales (over 400
employees)
044-556-3433
Public Sales (government agencies, educational
institutions, and medical institutions)
044-556-5963
Global Segment Japan
044-556-3469
Individual User
044-556-1760
Switchboard
044-556-4300
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
152 Contacting Dell
Korea (Seoul)
International Access Code: 001
Country Code: 82
City Code: 2
E-mail: krsupport@dell.com
Support
toll-free: 080-200-3800
Technical Support (XPS)
toll-free: 080-999-0283
Support (Dimension, PDA, Electronics, and
Accessories)
toll-free: 080-200-3801
Sales
toll-free: 080-200-3600
Fax
2194-6202
Switchboard
2194-6000
Latin America Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas,
U.S.A.)
512 728-4093
Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)
512 728-3619
Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service)
(Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)
512 728-3883
Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)
512 728-4397
SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)
512 728-4600
or 512 728-3772
Luxembourg
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 352
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Support
3420808075
Home/Small Business Sales
+32 (0)2 713 15 96
Corporate Sales
26 25 77 81
Customer Care
+32 (0)2 481 91 19
Fax
26 25 77 82
Macao
Country Code: 853
Technical Support
toll-free: 0800 105
Customer Service (Xiamen, China)
34 160 910
Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China)
29 693 115
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 153
Malaysia (Penang)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 60
City Code: 4
Website: support.ap.dell.com
Technical Support (XPS)
toll-free: 1800 885 784
Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)
toll-free:1800880193
Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)
toll-free:1800881306
Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)
toll-free: 1800 881 386
Customer Care
toll-free:
1800 881 306
(option 6)
Transaction Sales
toll-free:1800888202
Corporate Sales
toll-free:1800888213
Mexico
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 52
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
Customer Technical Support
001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383
Sales
50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355
Customer Service
001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383
Main
50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355
Montserrat E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-866-278-6822
Netherlands Antilles E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
001-800-882-1519
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
154 Contacting Dell
Netherlands (Amsterdam)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 31
City Code: 20
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Technical Support for XPS
020 674 45 94
Technical Support for all other Dell computers
020 674 45 00
Technical Support Fax
020 674 47 66
Home/Small Business Customer Care
020 674 42 00
Relational Customer Care
020 674 4325
Home/Small Business Sales
020 674 55 00
Relational Sales
020 674 50 00
Home/Small Business Sales Fax
020 674 47 75
Relational Sales Fax
020 674 47 50
Switchboard
020 674 50 00
Switchboard Fax
020 674 47 50
New Zealand
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 64
Website: support.ap.dell.com
E-mail: support.ap.dell.com/contactus
Technical Support (XPS)
toll-free: 0800 335 540
General Support
0800 441 567
Nicaragua E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
001-800-220-1377
Norway (Lysaker)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 47
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Technical Support for XPS
815 35 043
Technical Support for all other Dell products
671 16882
Relational Customer Care
671 17575
Home/Small Business Customer Care
23162298
Switchboard
671 16800
Fax Switchboard
671 16865
Panama E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
011-800-507-1264
Peru E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
0800-50-669
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 155
Poland (Warsaw)
International Access Code: 011
Country Code: 48
City Code: 22
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: pl_support_tech@dell.com
Customer Service Phone
57 95 700
Customer Care
57 95 999
Sales
57 95 999
Customer Service Fax
57 95 806
Reception Desk Fax
57 95 998
Switchboard
57 95 999
Portugal
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 351
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Technical Support
707200149
Customer Care
800 300 413
Sales
800 300 410 or 800 300 411 or
800 300 412 or 21 422 07 10
Fax
21 424 01 12
Puerto Rico E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
1-877-537-3355
St. Kitts and Nevis Website: www.dell.com/kn
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-866-540-3355
St. Lucia Website: www.dell.com/lc
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-866-464-4352
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Website: www.dell.com/vc
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-866-464-4353
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
156 Contacting Dell
Singapore (Singapore)
International Access Code: 005
Country Code: 65
NOTE: The phone numbers in this section should be
called from within Singapore or Malaysia only.
Website: support.ap.dell.com
Technical Support (XPS)
toll-free: 1800 394 7464
Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)
toll-free: 1 800 394 7430
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)
toll-free: 1 800 394 7488
Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)
toll-free: 1 800 394 7478
Customer Care
toll-free:
1 800 394 7430
(option 6)
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 1 800 394 7412
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 1 800 394 7419
Slovakia (Prague)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 421
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com
Technical Support
02 5441 5727
Customer Care
420 22537 2707
Fax
02 5441 8328
Tech Fax
02 5441 8328
Switchboard (Sales)
02 5441 7585
South Africa (Johannesburg)
International Access Code:
09/091
Country Code: 27
City Code: 11
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com
Gold Queue
011 709 7713
Technical Support
011 709 7710
Customer Care
011 709 7707
Sales
011 709 7700
Fax
011 706 0495
Switchboard
011 709 7700
Southeast Asian and Pacific
Countries
Technical Support, Customer Service, and Sales
(Penang, Malaysia)
604 633 4810
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 157
Spain (Madrid)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 34
City Code: 91
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Home and Small Business
Technical Support
902 100 130
Customer Care
902 118 540
Sales
902 118 541
Switchboard
902 118 541
Fax
902 118 539
Corporate
Technical Support
902 100 130
Customer Care
902 115 236
Switchboard
91 722 92 00
Fax
91 722 95 83
Sweden (Upplands Vasby)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 46
City Code: 8
Website: support.euro.dell.com
Technical Support for XPS
0771 340 340
Technical Support for all other Dell products
08 590 05 199
Relational Customer Care
08 590 05 642
Home/Small Business Customer Care
08 587 70 527
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support
020 140 14 44
Technical Support Fax
08 590 05 594
Sales
08 590 05 185
Switzerland (Geneva)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 41
City Code: 22
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: Tech_support_central_Europe@dell.com
Technical Support for XPS
0848 33 88 57
Technical Support (Home and Small Business) for
all other Dell products
0844 811 411
Technical Support (Corporate)
0844 822 844
Customer Care (Home and Small Business)
0848 802 202
Customer Care (Corporate)
0848 821 721
Fax
022 799 01 90
Switchboard
022 799 01 01
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
158 Contacting Dell
Tai wa n
International Access Code: 002
Country Code: 886
Website: support.ap.dell.com
E-mail: support.dell.com.cn/email
Technical Support (XPS)
toll-free: 0080 186 3085
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, Inspiron,
Dimension, and Electronics and Accessories)
toll-free: 0080 186 1011
Technical Support (servers and storage)
toll-free: 0080 160 1256
Customer Care
toll-free:
0080 160 1250
(option 5)
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 0080 165 1228
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 0080 165 1227
Thailand
International Access Code: 001
Country Code: 66
Website: support.ap.dell.com
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)
toll-free: 1800 0060 07
Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)
toll-free: 1800 0600 09
Customer Care
toll-free:
1800 006 007
(option 7)
Corporate Sales
toll-free: 1800 006 009
Transaction Sales
toll-free: 1800 006 006
Trinidad/Tobago Website: www.dell.com/tt
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-888-799-5908
Turks and Caicos Islands Website: www.dell.com/tc
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-877-441-4735
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 159
U.K. (Bracknell)
International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 44
City Code: 1344
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com
Customer Care website:
support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/form/home.asp
Sales
Home and Small Business Sales
0870 907 4000
Corporate/Public Sector Sales
01344 860 456
Customer Care
Home and Small Business Customer Care
0870 906 0010
Corporate Customer Care
01344 373 185
Preferred Accounts (500–5000 employees)
0870 906 0010
Global Accounts Customer Care
01344 373 186
Central Government Customer Care
01344 373 193
Local Government & Education Customer Care
01344 373 199
Health Customer Care
01344 373 194
Technical Support
Technical Support for XPS computers only
0870 366 4180
Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred
Accounts/PCA [1000+ employees])
0870 908 0500
Technical Support for all other products
0870 353 0800
General
Home and Small Business Fax
0870 907 4006
Uruguay Website: www.dell.com/uy
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 000-413-598-2521
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
160 Contacting Dell
U.S.A. (Austin, Texas)
International Access Code: 011
Country Code: 1
Automated Order-Status Service
toll-free: 1-800-433-9014
AutoTech (portable and desktop computers)
toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
Hardware and Warranty Support (Dell TV,
Printers, and Projectors) for Relationship
customers
toll-free: 1-877-459-7298
Americas Consumer XPS Support
toll-free: 1-800-232-8544
Consumer (Home and Home Office) Support for
all other Dell products
toll-free: 1-800-624-9896
Customer Service
toll-free: 1-800-624-9897
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers
toll-free: 1-800-695-8133
Financial Services website:
www.dellfinancialservices.com
Financial Services (lease/loans)
toll-free: 1-877-577-3355
Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA])
toll-free: 1-800-283-2210
Business
Customer Service and Support
toll-free: 1-800-456-3355
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers
toll-free: 1-800-695-8133
Support for printers, projectors, PDAs, and MP3
players
toll-free: 1-877-459-7298
Public (government, education, and healthcare)
Customer Service and Support
toll-free: 1-800-456-3355
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers
toll-free: 1-800-695-8133
Dell Sales
toll-free: 1-800-289-3355
or toll-free: 1-800-879-3355
Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers)
toll-free: 1-888-798-7561
Software and Peripherals Sales
toll-free: 1-800-671-3355
Spare Parts Sales
toll-free: 1-800-357-3355
Extended Service and Warranty Sales
toll-free: 1-800-247-4618
Fax
toll-free: 1-800-727-8320
Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or
Speech-Impaired
toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY
(1-877-335-5889)
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
Contacting Dell 161
U.S. Virgin Islands E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
toll-free: 1-877-702-4360
Venezuela Website: www.dell.com/ve
E-mail: la-techsupport@dell.com
General Support
0800-100-4752
Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
162 Contacting Dell
Specifications 163
Specifications
Processor
Processor type Intel® Core™ Duo, Intel Celeron® M, or
Intel Pentium® M processors
L1 cache 32 KB
L2 cache 1 MB, 2 MB
External bus frequency (front side
bus)
533 MHz and 667 MHz
System Information
System chip set Mobile Intel 945 GM Express or
Mobile Intel 945 PM Express
Data bus width 64 bits
DRAM bus width 64 bits
Processor address bus width 32 bits
Flash EPROM 4 MB
Graphics bus 64 bits
PCI bus 32 bits
ExpressCard
ExpressCard controller Intel ICH7
ExpressCard connector one ExpressCard slot (54 mm)
Cards supported ExpressCard/34 (34 mm) and
ExpressCard/54 (54 mm)
1.5 V and 3.3 V
ExpressCard connector size 26 pins
164 Specifications
5-in-1 Media Memory Card Reader
5-in-1 media memory card controller Ricoh R5C832
5-in-1 media memory card connector 5-in-1 combo card connector
Cards supported MS
MS Pro
SD/SDIO
MMC
xD
5-in-1 media memory card connector
size
36.8 x 29.3 x 4.75 mm
Memory
Memory module connector two SODIMM connectors
Memory module capacities 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB
Memory type 1.8-V SODIMM DDR-2
Minimum memory 256 MB
Maximum memory 4 GB
Ports and Connectors
Audio microphone/line-in connector, two
headphone connectors
NOTE: You can use the microphone/line-in
and headphone connectors to switch to 5.1
surround sound mode (see "Sound Modes" on
page 68).
IEEE 1394a 4-pin serial connector
Mini-Card two Type II Mini-Card slots
Modem RJ-11 port
Network adapter RJ-45 port
S-video TV-out 7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional adapter
cable(s) with S/PDIF, S-video, composite
video via dongle, and component video
connectors)
USB four 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors
Video 15-hole connector
Specifications 165
Communications
Modem:
Ty p e
v.92 56K MDC
Controller
softmodem
Interface
Intel High-Definition Audio
Network adapter 10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board
Wireless internal PCI-e Mini-Card WLAN and/or
Mobile Broadband support and Bluetooth®
wireless technology support
Video
NOTE: Optional video controller upgrades are available for your computer at the time
of purchase. To determine the configuration of your computer, see "Determining Your
Computer’s Configuration" on page 15.
Video type: integrated on system board
Video controller
Intel® 945 GM
Video memory
up to 128 MB of shared memory (with
256 MB of system memory) or 224 MB of
shared memory (with 512 MB or more of
system memory)
LCD interface
LVDS
TV support
NTSC or PAL in S-video, composite via
dongle, and component modes
Video type: discrete video card
Data bus
PCI Express X16
Video controller
NVIDIA GeForce Go 7400
Video memory
64 MB (up to a total of 256 MB shared
memory)
LCD interface
LVDS
TV support
NTSC or PAL in S-video, composite, and
component modes
Camera Logitech, optional, integrated in display
bezel, 1.3 megapixel, video resolution 640 x
480 @ 30 ps, rotates approximately 240
degrees, image reverses when camera is
tilted backward, blue camera light that
indicates that a camera application is open
166 Specifications
Audio
Audio type two-channel high-definition audio codec
Audio controller Sigmatel STAC9220 Codec
Stereo conversion 24-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-to-
analog)
Interfaces:
Internal
Intel High Definition Audio
External
microphone/line-in connector, two stereo
headphone/speaker connectors
Speaker two 4-ohm speakers
Internal speaker amplifier 1-W channel into 4 ohms
Volume controls program menus, media control buttons
Microphone directional hypercardioid microphone,
integrated on camera and rotates with
camera, available only with integrated
camera
Display
Type (active-matrix TFT) 12.1-inch WXGA (True Life)
Dimensions:
Height
163.2 mm (6.43 inches)
Width
261.12 mm (10.28 inches)
Diagonal
307.93 mm (12.1 inches)
Maximum resolutions 1280 x 800 at 16.7 million colors
Refresh rate 60 Hz
Operating angle 0° (closed) to 180°
Viewing angles:
Horizontal
±40° typical
Vertical
+10°/–30°
Pixel pitch 0.204 mm
Controls brightness can be controlled through
keyboard shortcuts (see "Display Functions"
on page 36)
Specifications 167
Keyboard
Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe);
91 (Japan)
Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji
Touch Pad
X/Y position resolution
(graphics table mode) 240 cpi
Size:
Width
73.0-mm (2.9-inch) sensor-active area
Height
42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle
Battery
Type 6-cell "smart" lithium ion
9-cell "smart" lithium ion
Dimensions:
Depth
49 mm (1.93 inches) (6 cell)
60.1 mm (2.37 inches) (9 cell)
Height
24 mm (0.94 inch)
Width
206.8 mm (8.14 inches)
Voltage 11.1 VDC
Charge time (approximate):
Computer off
1 hour (6 cell) (Dell™ ExpressCharge™)
2 hours (9 cell)
Operating time Battery operating time varies depending on
operating conditions and can be significantly
reduced under certain power-intensive
conditions. See "Power Problems" on
page 100.
See "Using a Battery" on page 39 for more
information on battery life.
Life span (approximate) 300 discharge/charge cycles
168 Specifications
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–40° to 60°C (–40° to 140°F)
Coin-cell battery CR-2032
AC Adapter
Input voltage 90–264 VAC
Input current (maximum) 1.5 A
Input frequency 47–63 Hz
Output current 4.34 A (maximum at 4-second pulse);
3.34 A (65 W) (continuous)
Output power 65 W
Rated output voltage 19.5 +/–1.0 VDC
Dimensions:
Height
28.2 mm (1.11 inches)
Width
57.9 mm (2.28 inches)
Depth
137.2 mm (5.4 inches)
Weight (with cables) 0.4 kg (0.9 lb)
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Travel adapter optional
Battery (continued)
Specifications 169
Physical
Height 31.4 mm (1.2 inches)
Width 299 mm (11.96 inches)
Depth 220.98 mm (8.7 inches)
Weight (with 6-cell battery and
optical drive)
1.98 kg (4.37 lb)
Environmental
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Relative humidity (maximum):
Operating
10% to 90% (noncondensing)
Storage
5% to 95% (noncondensing)
Maximum vibration (using a
random-vibration spectrum that
simulates user environment):
Operating
0.9 GRMS
Storage
1.3 GRMS
Maximum shock (measured with
hard drive in head-parked position
and a 2-ms half-sine pulse):
Operating
122 G
Storage
163 G
Altitude (maximum):
Operating
–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)
Storage
–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)
170 Specifications
Appendix 171
Appendix
Using the System Setup Program
NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in the system setup
program, thus overriding options that you set through the system setup program. (An exception is the External
Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through the system setup program.) For more information
on configuring features for your operating system, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the
Help and Support Center, see page 13.
The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer,
such as:
• System configuration
• Basic device-configuration settings
• System security and hard-drive password settings
• Power management settings
• Boot (start-up) configuration and display settings
• Docking-device settings
• Wireless control settings
NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do not
change the system setup program settings. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly.
Viewing the System Setup Screen
1
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2
When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long and the Windows
logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your
computer and try again.
System Setup Screen
The system setup screen consists of three windows of information. The window on the left contains
an expandable hierarchy of control categories. If you select (highlight) a category (such as System,
Onboard Devices, or Video) and press <Enter>, you can show or hide the related subcategories.
The window on the right contains information about the category or subcategory selected in the
window on the left.
172 Appendix
The window at the bottom tells you how to control the system setup program with key functions. Use
these keys to select a category, modify its settings, or exit the system setup program.
Commonly Used Options
Certain options require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect.
Changing the Boot Sequence
The boot sequence, or boot order, tells the computer where to look to find the software needed to start the
operating system. You can control the boot sequence and enable/disable devices using the Boot Order
page of the system setup program.
NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a One-Time Boot" on page 172.
The Boot Order page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your
computer, including but not limited to the following:
• Diskette Drive
• Internal HDD
• USB Storage Device
• CD/DVD/CD-RW drive
• Modular bay HDD
NOTE: Only devices that are preceded by a number are bootable.
During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device for the
operating system start-up files. When the computer finds the files, it stops searching and starts the
operating system.
To control the boot devices, select (highlight) a device by pressing the down-arrow or up-arrow key, and
then enable or disable the device or change its order in the list.
• To enable or disable a device, highlight the item and press the space bar. Enabled items are preceded
by a number; disabled items are not preceded by a number.
• To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and press either <u> to move the device up the list
or <d> to move a device down the list.
Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit the system setup program.
Performing a One-Time Boot
You can set a one-time-only boot sequence without entering the system setup program. (You can also use
this procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.)
1
Shut down the computer through the
Start
menu.
2
Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
Appendix 173
3
Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long
and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down
your computer and try again.
4
When the boot device list appears, highlight the device from which you want to boot and press
<Enter>.
The computer boots to the selected device.
The next time you reboot the computer, the previous boot order is restored.
Cleaning Your Computer
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the
Product Information Guide.
Computer, Keyboard, and Display
CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and remove any
installed batteries. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol
cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.
• Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from between the keys on the keyboard and to remove any
dirt or lint from the display.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the computer or display, do not spray cleaning solution directly onto the
display. Only use products specifically designed for cleaning displays, and follow the instructions that are included
with the product.
• Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with either water or a display cleaner. Do not use alcohol or an ammonia-
based cleaner. Wipe the display gently working from the center to the edges until it is clean and any
fingerprints are removed. Do not use excessive pressure.
• Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water and wipe the computer and keyboard. Do not allow water
from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.
Touch Pad
1
Shut down and turn off your computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 113.
2
Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets.
3
Remove any installed batteries. See "Using a Battery" on page 39.
4
Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe it gently across the surface of the touch pad. Do not
allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.
174 Appendix
Floppy Drive
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign the heads which
prevents the drive from operating.
Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain pretreated
floppies to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation.
CDs and DVDs
NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions that come
with the compressed-air product. Never touch the lens in the drive.
If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try cleaning
the discs.
1
Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.
2
With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line
from the center to the outer edge of the disc.
For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also purchase
commercial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust, fingerprints, and
scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are also safe to use on DVDs.
Camera
NOTICE: To avoid scratching or fogging the camera lens, do not use any solvents or abrasives when cleaning the
camera.
To clean, carefully wipe the camera with a soft, damp cloth and thoroughly dry the camera with a soft,
lint-free cloth.
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)
Technician-assisted technical support requires the cooperation and participation of the customer in the
troubleshooting process and provides for restoration of the operating system, software programs, and
hardware drivers to the original default configuration as shipped from Dell, as well as the verification of
appropriate functionality of the computer and all Dell-installed hardware. In addition to this technician-
assisted technical support, online technical support is available at support.dell.com. Additional technical
support options may be available for purchase.
Appendix 175
Dell provides limited technical support for the computer and any "Dell-installed" software and
peripherals1. Support for third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer,
including those purchased and/or installed through Dell Software and Peripherals, Readyware, and
Custom Factory Integration2.
1 Repair services are provided pursuant to the terms and conditions of your limited warranty and any optional support ser-
vice contract purchased with the computer.
2 All Dell-standard components included in a Custom Factory Integration (CFI) project are covered by the standard Dell lim-
ited warranty for your computer. However, Dell also extends a parts replacement program to cover all nonstandard, third-
party hardware components integrated through CFI for the duration of the computer’s service contract.
Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals
Dell-installed software includes the operating system and some of the software programs that are
installed on the computer during the manufacturing process (Microsoft® Office, Norton Antivirus, and
so on).
Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dell-branded module bay or
ExpressCard accessories. In addition, any Dell-branded monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers,
microphones for telephonic modems, docking stations/port replicators, networking products, and all
associated cabling are included.
Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals
Third-party software and peripherals include any peripheral, accessory, or software program sold by Dell
not under the Dell brand (printers, scanners, cameras, games, and so on). Support for all third-party
software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer of the product.
FCC Notice (U.S. Only)
FCC Class B
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction manual, may cause interference with radio 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:
• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This 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.
176 Appendix
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.
If 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:
Macrovision Product Notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other
intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by
Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized
by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
Product name: Dell™ XPS™ M1210
Model number: PP11S
Company name: Dell Inc.
Worldwide Regulatory Compliance & Environmental Affairs
One Dell Way
Round Rock, TX 78682 USA
512-338-4400
Glossary 177
Glossary
Terms in this Glossary are provided for
informational purposes only and may or may not
describe features included with your particular
computer.
A
AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that
powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter
power cable in to an electrical outlet.
ACPI — advanced configuration and power interface —
A power management specification that enables
Microsoft® Windows® operating systems to put a
computer in standby or hibernate mode to conserve the
amount of electrical power allocated to each device
attached to the computer.
AGP — accelerated graphics port — A dedicated graphics
port that allows system memory to be used for 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.
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 platform- and
operating system-independent.
B
battery life span — The length of time (years) during
which a portable computer battery is able to be depleted
and recharged.
battery operating time — The length of time (minutes or
hours) that a portable computer battery 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 Glossary
bus — A communication pathway between the
components in your computer.
bus speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how
fast a bus can transfer information.
byte — The basic data unit used by your computer. A byte
is usually equal to 8 bits.
C
C — Celsius — A temperature measurement scale where
0° is the freezing point and 100° is the boiling point of
water.
cache — A special high-speed storage mechanism which
can be either a reserved section of main memory or an
independent high-speed storage device. The cache
enhances the efficiency of many processor operations.
L1 cache — Primary cache stored inside the processor.
L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external
to the processor or incorporated into the processor
architecture.
carnet — An international customs document that
facilitates temporary imports into foreign countries. Also
known as a merchandise passport.
CD-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.
D
DDR 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 179
disk striping generally allow the user to select the data
unit size or stripe width.
DMA — direct memory access — A channel that allows
certain types of data transfer between RAM and a device
to bypass the processor.
docking device — See APR.
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.
E
ECC — error checking and correction — A type of
memory that includes special circuitry for testing the
accuracy of data as it passes in and out of memory.
ECP — extended capabilities port — A parallel connector
design that provides improved bidirectional data
transmission. Similar to EPP, ECP uses direct memory
access to transfer data and often improves performance.
EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An
improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives and
CD drives.
EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical
interference caused by electromagnetic radiation.
ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency
requirements that decrease the overall consumption of
electricity.
EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector
design that provides bidirectional data transmission.
ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of
static electricity. ESD can damage integrated circuits
found in computer and communications equipment.
expansion card — A circuit board that installs in an
expansion slot on the system board in some computers,
expanding the capabilities of the computer. Examples
include video, modem, and sound cards.
expansion slot — A connector on the system board (in
some computers) where you insert an expansion card,
connecting it to the system bus.
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.
180 Glossary
Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a
sticker on your Dell™ computer. Use the Express Service
Code when contacting Dell for assistance. Express Service
Code service may not be available in some countries.
extended display mode — A display setting that allows
you to use a second monitor as an extension of your
display. Also referred to as dual display mode.
extended PC Card — A PC Card that extends beyond the
edge of the PC Card slot when installed.
F
Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale where
32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling point of
water.
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.
G
G — gravity — A measurement of weight and force.
GB — gigabyte — A measurement of data storage that
equals 1024 MB (1,073,741,824 bytes). When used to
refer to hard drive storage, the term is often rounded to
1,000,000,000 bytes.
GHz — gigahertz — A measurement of frequency that
equals one thousand million Hz, or one thousand MHz.
The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces
are often measured in GHz.
graphics mode — A video mode that can be defined as x
horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors. Graphics
modes can display an unlimited variety of shapes and fonts.
GUI — graphical user interface — Software that interacts
with the user by means of menus, windows, and icons.
Most programs that operate on the Windows operating
systems are GUIs.
H
hard drive — A drive that reads and writes data on a hard
disk. The terms hard drive and hard disk are often used
interchangeably.
heat sink — A metal plate on some processors that helps
dissipate heat.
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.
hypercardioid — A hypercardioid microphone with a
highly directional pickup pattern that is even narrower
than that of a cardioid microphone.
Glossary 181
Hz — hertz — A unit of frequency measurement that
equals 1 cycle per second. Computers and electronic
devices are often measured in kilohertz (kHz), megahertz
(MHz), gigahertz (GHz), or terahertz (THz).
I
IC — integrated circuit — A semiconductor wafer, or
chip, on which thousands or millions of tiny electronic
components are fabricated for use in computer, audio, and
video equipment.
IDE — integrated device electronics — An interface for
mass storage devices in which the controller is integrated
into the hard drive or CD drive.
IEEE 1394 — Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers, Inc. — A high-performance serial bus used to
connect IEEE 1394-compatible devices, such as digital
cameras and DVD players, to the computer.
infrared sensor — A port that allows you to transfer data
between the computer and infrared-compatible devices
without using a cable connection.
integrated — Usually refers to components that are
physically located on the computer’s system board. Also
referred to as built-in.
I/O — input/output — An operation or device that enters
and extracts data from your computer. Keyboards and
printers are I/O devices.
I/O address — An address in RAM that is associated with
a specific device (such as a serial connector, parallel
connector, or expansion slot) and allows the processor to
communicate with that device.
IrDA — Infrared Data Association — The organization
that creates international standards for infrared
communications.
IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway
assigned to a specific device so that the device can
communicate with the processor. Each device connection
must be assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share
the same IRQ assignment, you cannot operate both
devices simultaneously.
ISP — Internet service provider — A company that allows
you to access its host server to connect directly to the
Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access websites.
The ISP typically provides you with a software package,
user name, and access phone numbers for a fee.
K
Kb — kilobit — A unit of data that equals 1024 bits. A
measurement of the capacity of memory integrated
circuits.
KB — kilobyte — A unit of data that equals 1024 bytes
but is often referred to as 1000 bytes.
key combination — A command requiring you to press
multiple keys at the same time.
kHz — kilohertz — A measurement of frequency that
equals 1000 Hz.
L
LAN — local area network — A computer network
covering a small area. A LAN usually is confined to a
building or a few nearby buildings. A LAN can be
connected to another LAN over any distance through
telephone lines and radio waves to form a wide area
network (WAN).
LCD — liquid crystal display — The technology used by
portable computer and flat-panel displays.
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.
LVDS — low-voltage differential signaling
M
Mb — megabit — A measurement of memory chip
capacity that equals 1024 Kb.
Mbps — megabits per second — One million bits per
second. This measurement is typically used for
transmission speeds for networks and modems.
182 Glossary
MB — megabyte — A measurement of data storage that
equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB equals 1024 KB. When used
to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often rounded to
1,000,000 bytes.
MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes
per second. This measurement is typically used for data
transfer ratings.
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.
Mini PCI — A standard for integrated peripheral devices
with an emphasis on communications such as modems
and NICs. A Mini PCI card is a small external card that is
functionally equivalent to a standard PCI expansion card.
Mini-Card — A small card designed for integrated
peripherals, such as communication NICs. The Mini-
Card is functionally equivalent to a standard PCI
expansion card.
modem — A device that allows your computer to
communicate with other computers over analog
telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external,
PC Card, 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.
MP — megapixel — A measure of image resolution used
for digital cameras.
N
network adapter — A chip that provides network
capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter
on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an
adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a
NIC (network interface controller).
NIC — See network adapter.
notification area — The section of the Windows taskbar
that contains icons for providing quick access to programs
and computer functions, such as the clock, volume
control, and print status. Also referred to as system tray.
ns — nanosecond — A measure of time that equals one
billionth of a second.
NVRAM — nonvolatile random access memory — A type
of memory that stores data when the computer is turned off
or loses its external power source. NVRAM is used for
maintaining computer configuration information such as
date, time, and other system setup options that you can set.
O
optical drive — A drive that uses optical technology to
read or write data from CDs, DVDs, or DVD+RWs.
Example of optical drives include CD drives, DVD drives,
CD-RW drives, and CD-RW/DVD combo drives.
P
parallel connector — An I/O port often used to connect a
parallel printer to your computer. Also referred to as an
LPT port.
Glossary 183
partition — A physical storage area on a hard drive that is
assigned to one or more logical storage areas known as
logical drives. Each partition can contain multiple logical
drives.
PC Card — A removable I/O card adhering to the
PCMCIA standard. Modems and network adapters are
common types of PC Cards.
PCI — peripheral component interconnect — PCI is a
local bus that supports 32-and 64-bit data paths,
providing a high-speed data path between the processor
and devices such as video, drives, and networks.
PCI Express — A modification to the PCI interface that
boosts the data transfer rate between the processor and
the devices attached to it. PCI Express can transfer data at
speeds from 250 MB/sec to 4 GB/sec. If the PCI Express
chip set and the device are capable of different speeds,
they will operate at the slower speed.
PCMCIA — Personal Computer Memory Card
International Association — The organization that
establishes standards for PC Cards.
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.
R
RAID — redundant array of independent disks — A
method of providing data redundancy. Some common
implementations of RAID include RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 5, RAID 10, and RAID 50.
RAM — random-access memory — The primary
temporary storage area for program instructions and data.
Any information stored in RAM is lost when you shut
down your computer.
readme file — A text file included with a software package
or hardware product. Typically, readme files provide
installation information and describe new product
enhancements or corrections that have not yet been
documented.
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.
184 Glossary
RFI — radio frequency interference — Interference that
is generated at typical radio frequencies, in the range of
10 kHz to 100,000 MHz. Radio frequencies are at the
lower end of the electromagnetic frequency spectrum and
are more likely to have interference than the higher
frequency radiations, such as infrared and light.
ROM — read-only memory — Memory that stores data
and programs that cannot be deleted or written to by the
computer. ROM, unlike RAM, retains its contents after
you shut down your computer. Some programs essential to
the operation of your computer reside in ROM.
RPM — revolutions per minute — The number of
rotations that occur per minute. Hard drive speed is often
measured in rpm.
RTC — real time clock — Battery-powered clock on the
system board that keeps the date and time after you shut
down the computer.
RTCRST — real-time clock reset — A jumper on the
system board of some computers that can often be used
for troubleshooting problems.
S
SAS — 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.
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.
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.
Strike Zone™ — Reinforced area of the platform base
that protects the hard drive by acting as a dampening
device when a computer experiences resonating shock or
is dropped (whether the computer is on or off).
surge protectors — Prevent voltage spikes, such as those
that may occur during an electrical storm, from entering
the computer through the electrical outlet. Surge
protectors do not protect against lightning strikes or against
brownouts, which occur when the voltage drops more than
20 percent below the normal AC-line voltage level.
Glossary 185
Network connections cannot be protected by surge
protectors. Always disconnect the network cable from the
network connector during electrical storms.
SVGA — super-video graphics array — A video standard
for video cards and controllers. Typical SVGA resolutions
are 800 x 600 and 1024 x 768.
The number of colors and resolution that a program
displays depends on the capabilities of the monitor, the
video controller and its drivers, and the amount of video
memory installed in the computer.
S-video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or
digital audio device to the computer.
SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video
standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1280 x 1024.
SXGA+ — super-extended graphics array plus — A video
standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1400 x 1050.
system board — The main circuit board in your computer.
Also known as the motherboard.
system setup — A utility that serves as an interface
between the computer hardware and the operating
system. System setup allows you to configure 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.
T
TAPI — telephony application programming interface —
Enables Windows programs to operate with a wide variety
of telephony devices, including voice, data, fax, and video.
text editor — A program used to create and edit files that
contain only text; for example, Windows Notepad uses a
text editor. Text editors do not usually provide word wrap
or formatting functionality (the option to underline,
change fonts, and so on).
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.
U
UMA — unified memory allocation — System memory
dynamically allocated to video.
UPS — uninterruptible power supply — A backup power
source used when the electrical power fails or drops to an
unacceptable voltage level. A UPS keeps a computer
running for a limited amount of time when there is no
electrical power. UPS systems typically provide surge
suppression and may also provide voltage regulation.
Small UPS systems provide battery power for a few
minutes to enable you to shut down your computer.
USB — universal serial bus — A hardware interface for a
low-speed device such as a USB-compatible keyboard,
mouse, joystick, scanner, set of speakers, printer,
broadband devices (DSL and cable modems), imaging
devices, or storage devices. Devices are plugged directly in
to a 4-pin socket on your computer or in to a multi-port
hub that plugs in to your computer. USB devices can be
connected and disconnected while the computer is turned
on, and they can also be daisy-chained together.
UTP — unshielded twisted pair — Describes a type of
cable used in most telephone networks and some
computer networks. Pairs of unshielded wires are twisted
to protect against electromagnetic interference, rather
than relying on a metal sheath around each pair of wires to
protect against interference.
UXGA — ultra extended graphics array — A video
standard for video cards and controllers that supports
resolutions up to 1600 x 1200.
V
video controller — The circuitry on a video card or on the
system board (in computers with an integrated video
controller) that provides the video capabilities—in
combination with the monitor—for your computer.
video memory — Memory that consists of memory chips
dedicated to video functions. Video memory is usually
186 Glossary
faster than system memory. The amount of video memory
installed primarily influences the number of colors that a
program can display.
video mode — A mode that describes how text and
graphics are displayed on a monitor. Graphics-based
software, such as Windows operating systems, displays in
video modes that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y
vertical pixels by z colors. Character-based software, such
as text editors, displays in video modes that can be
defined as x columns by y rows of characters.
video resolution — See resolution.
virus — A program that is designed to inconvenience you
or to destroy data stored on your computer. A virus
program moves from one computer to another through an
infected disk, software downloaded from the Internet, or
e-mail attachments. When an infected program starts, its
embedded virus also starts.
A common type of virus is a boot virus, which is stored in
the boot sectors of a floppy disk. If the floppy disk is left in
the drive when the computer is shut down and then
turned on, the computer is infected when it reads the
boot sectors of the floppy disk expecting to find the
operating system. If the computer is infected, the boot
virus may replicate itself onto all the floppy disks that are
read or written in that computer until the virus is
eradicated.
V — volt — The measurement of electric potential or
electromotive force. One V appears across a resistance of
1 ohm when a current of 1 ampere flows through that
resistance.
W
W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One
W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt.
WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used
to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For
example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for
1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours.
wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the
Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the
Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in your favorite
picture and make it wallpaper.
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."
X
XGA — extended graphics array — A video standard for
video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to
1024 x 768.
Z
ZIF — zero insertion force — A type of socket or
connector that allows a computer chip to be installed or
removed with no stress applied to either the chip or its
socket.
Zip — A popular data compression format. Files that have
been compressed with the Zip format are called Zip files
and usually have a filename extension of .zip. A special
kind of zipped file is a self-extracting file, which has a
filename extension of .exe. You can unzip a self-extracting
file by double-clicking it.
Zip drive — A high-capacity floppy drive developed by
Iomega Corporation that uses 3.5-inch removable disks
called Zip disks. Zip disks are slightly larger than regular
floppy disks, about twice as thick, and hold up to 100 MB
of data.
Index 187
Index
Numbers
5.1 surround sound mode, 68
5-in-1 media memory card
reader, 73, 134
A
audio device
connecting, 56
enabling, 67
audio. See sound
B
battery
charge gauge, 40
charging, 43
checking the charge, 40
conserving power, 41
description, 24
meter, 40
performance, 39
power meter window, 40
removing, 43
storing, 43
battery-bay latch release, 24
blanks
ExpressCards, 71
removing, 72, 74
Bluetooth wireless technology
device status light, 18
installing card, 134
boot sequence, 172
brightness of display
adjusting, 33
C
camera
cleaning, 45
using, 45
CardBus technology
ExpressCards, 71
media memory cards, 73, 134
carnet, 140
CD drive
problems, 89
CD-RW drive
problems, 89
CDs, 51
operating system, 14
playing, 49
Check Disk, 90
communications card
cover, 24
computer
crashes, 97
protecting, 84
computer (continued)
restore computer to previous
operating state, 108
slow performance, 91, 98
specifications, 163
stops responding, 97
conflicts
software and hardware
incompatibilities, 108
connecting
audio device, 56
Mobile Broadband
network, 80
TV, 56
WLAN network, 78
contacting Dell, 141
copying CDs
general information, 51
helpful tips, 53
how to, 51
copying DVDs
general information, 51
helpful tips, 53
how to, 51
D
Dell
contacting, 141, 176
support policy, 175
support site, 13
188 Index
188 Index
Dell Diagnostics
about, 85
starting from the Drivers and
Utilities CD, 86
starting from your hard
drive, 85
Dell MediaDirect
about, 54
problems, 98
Dell QuickSet, 14, 137
device status lights, 17
diagnostics
Dell, 85
display
adjusting brightness, 33
problems, 104
resolution, 33
See also monitor
switching the video image, 33
display settings for a TV
enabling in Windows XP, 68
documentation
End User License
Agreement, 11
online, 13
Product Information
Guide, 11
regulatory, 11
safety, 11
warranty, 11
Dolby headphones, setting
up, 67
drivers
about, 105
identifying, 105
reinstalling, 106
Drivers and Utilities CD
about, 106
Dell Diagnostics, 85
reinstalling drivers and
utilities, 106
drives
problems, 89
See also hard drive
See also optical drive
DVD drive
problems, 89
DVDs, 51
playing, 49
E
End User License
Agreement, 11
ergonomics information, 11
error messages, 91
ExpressCards
blanks, 71-72
CardBus technology, 71
extended, 71
installing, 71
problems, 95
removing, 72
slot, 21, 71
types, 71
F
fan, 21
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 26
firewall
Windows, 82
floppy drive
connecting to a USB
connector, 20
H
hard drive
description, 21, 23
problems, 90
replacing, 116
returning to Dell, 119
hardware
conflicts, 108
Dell Diagnostics, 85
Hardware Troubleshooter, 108
Help and Support Center, 13
help file
QuickSet, 14
Windows Help and Support
Center, 13
hibernate mode, 42
hinge cover
removing, 121
I
IEEE 1394 connector
description, 21
problems, 95
Internet connection
about, 25
problems, 90
IRQ conflicts, 108
Index 189
K
keyboard
description, 19
numeric keypad, 35
problems, 96
removing, 122
shortcuts, 36
keyboard status lights, 17
keypad
numeric, 35
L
labels
Microsoft Windows, 12
Service Tag, 12
lost computer, 84
M
media control buttons
Dell MediaDirect button, 54
description, 18
play/pause/Dell
MediaDirect, 18
media memory cards
blanks, 74
CardBus technology, 73, 134
installing, 73
reader, 21
removing, 74
slot, 73, 134
types, 73, 134
MediaDirect. See Dell
MediaDirect
memory
installing, 119
problems, 99
removing, 120
memory module cover, 23
messages
error, 91
microphone
directional, 45
Microsoft Windows label, 12
Mobile Broadband
card, installing, 128
network connections, 80
problems, 99
See also wireless switch
modem connector, 20
monitor
See also display
problems, 104
switching the video image, 33
mouse problems, 103
N
network
connecting to, 75
firewall, 82
installing Mobile Broadband
card, 128
installing WLAN card, 124
Mobile Broadband, 99
problems, 99
See also QuickSet
using, 75
network connector, 22
O
operating system
CD, 14, 108, 112
reinstalling, 14
reinstalling Windows XP, 108
optical drive
description, 21
removing and replacing, 115
See also CD drive
See also DVD drive
P
passwords
about, 83
PC Restore, 110
phone numbers, 141
playing CDs and DVDs, 49
power
hibernate mode, 42
line conditioners, 30
modes for managing power
usage, 40
problems, 100
protection devices, 30
standby mode, 41
surge protectors, 30
UPS, 30
power light
conditions, 100
power management
conserving battery power, 41
printer
cable, 29
connecting, 29
190 Index
190 Index
printer (continued)
problems, 101
setting up, 29
USB, 30
problems
blue screen, 97
CD drive, 89
CD-RW drive, 89
computer crashes, 97
computer does not start up, 97
computer stops responding, 97
conflicts, 108
Dell Diagnostics, 85
Dell MediaDirect, 98
Dell Support Utility, 88
drives, 89
DVD drive, 89
error messages, 91
hard drive, 90
Hardware Troubleshooter, 108
Help and Support Center, 13
IEEE 1394 connector, 95
keyboard, 96
lockups, 97
network, 99
power, 100
power light conditions, 100
printer, 101
program crashes repeatedly, 97
program stops responding, 97
programs and Windows
compatibility, 97
restore computer to previous
operating state, 108
scanner, 102
slow computer
performance, 91, 98
problems (continued)
software, 97-98
sound and speakers, 102
speakers, 102
spyware, 91, 98
technical support policy, 175
video and monitor, 104
Q
QuickSet
about, 54
Help file, 14
R
RAM. See memory
regulatory information, 11
reinstalling
Windows XP, 108
resolution
setting, 33
S
S/PDIF digital audio
enabling, 67
safety instructions, 11, 114
scanner
problems, 102
screen. See monitor
security cable slot, 21
Service Tag, 12
SIM card, 134
software
conflicts, 108
problems, 97-98
sound
modes, 68
problems, 102
volume, 102
speakers
description, 17
problems, 102
volume, 102
specifications, 163
spyware, 91, 98
standby mode, 41
stereo sound mode, 68
stolen computer, 84
Subscriber Identity Module.
See SIM card
support
contacting Dell, 141, 176
policy, 175
website, 13
surround sound mode. See 5.1
surround sound mode
S-video TV-out connector, 20
System Restore, 108
system setup program
commonly used options, 172
screens, 171
viewing, 171
Index 191
T
technical specifications, 163
technical support
policy, 175
telephone numbers, 141
touch pad
buttons, 19
customizing, 38
description, 19
problems, 103
tracking software
protecting your computer, 84
transferring information to a
new computer, 26
traveling with the
computer, 139-140
troubleshooting
conflicts, 108
Dell Diagnostics, 85
Dell Support Utility, 88
Hardware Troubleshooter, 108
Help and Support Center, 13
restore computer to previous
operating state, 108
See also problems
TV
connecting, 56
enabling display settings, 68
U
uninterruptible power supply.
See UPS
UPS, 30
USB connectors, 20
V
video
connector, 22
problems, 104
video controller configuration
determining what controller is
installed, 15
volume
adjusting, 103
See also media control buttons
W
warranty information, 11
Wi-Fi Catcher light
light states, 21
See also wireless switch
Wi-Fi Catcher Network
Locator, 82
Windows Firewall, 82
Windows XP
Device Driver Rollback, 106
enabling display settings for a
TV, 68
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 26
Hardware Troubleshooter, 108
Help and Support Center, 13
hibernate mode, 42
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 97
reinstalling, 14, 108
standby mode, 41
System Restore, 108
wireless switch
description, 20
scanning for networks, 82
wizards
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 26
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 97
WLAN
about, 76
card, installing, 124
See also wireless switch
WWAN. See Mobile
Broadband
192 Index
192 Index