Dell 1300 User Manual

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Page 1

Dell™ Inspiron™ 1300/B120/B130

Owner’s Manual

Model PP21L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Page 2

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the

problem.

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

Abbreviations and Acronyms

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

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

Windows®

____________________

Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, DellNet, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, PowerVault, PowerApp, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Celeron, and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Outlook, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Model PP21L

September 2005 P/N WD660 Rev. A01

Page 3

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1 A Tour of Your Computer

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

2 Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System CD

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable Connecting a USB Printer

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors Line Conditioners

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Contents 3

Page 4

3 Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Switching the Video Image

Setting Display Resolution

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

4 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Key Combinations

System Functions CD or DVD Tray Display Functions Radios (Including Wireless Networking) Power Management Speaker Functions Microsoft

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

5 Using a Battery

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

4 Contents

Checking the Battery Charge

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Power Management Modes

Windows® Power Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Configuring Power Management Settings

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Page 5

6 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Playing a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

7 Using ExpressCards

ExpressCard Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

ExpressCard Blanks

Installing an ExpressCard

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

8 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Network Setup Wizard

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

Determining Your Network Type Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Windows® XP . . . . . 50

9 Dell™ QuickSet Features

Clicking the QuickSet Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Contents 5

Page 6

10 Solving Problems

Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

Keyboard Problems

External Keyboard problems Unexpected characters

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up The computer stops responding

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft

operating system A solid blue screen appears Other software problems

Memory Problems

Network Problems

ExpressCard Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

. . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Windows®

6 Contents

Power Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

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

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Page 7

Video and Display Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

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

Drivers

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec Using the Operating System CD

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

11 Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer

Hard Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

CD/DVD Drive

Memory

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Wireless Mini PCI Card

Hinge Cover

Keyboard

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

12 Appendix

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Using the System Setup Program

Overview

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Viewing the System Setup Screen

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Contents 7

Page 8

System Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Commonly Used Options

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Travelling With Your Computer

Identifying Your Computer Packing the Computer Travel Tips Travelling by Air

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Display Touch Pad CDs and DVDs

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

FCC Class B

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Macrovision Product Notice

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

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

Contacting Dell

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

. . . . . . . . . 109

. . . . . . . . . . . 109

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Index

8 Contents

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Page 9

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

• How to set up my computer

• Basic troubleshooting information

• How to run the Dell Diagnostics

• How to set up a printer

• Additional information about setting up my computer

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

• How to remove and install parts

• Specifications

• How to contact Dell

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Owner’s Manual

NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at

support.dell.com.

Dell™ Product Information Guide

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License

These labels are located on

• Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use

support.dell.com

contact technical support.

• Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting technical support.

the bottom of

Finding Information 9

your computer.

Page 10

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online courses, frequently asked questions

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support

site.

NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers

can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website at premier.support.dell.com.

as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system

• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and order status, warranty, and repair information

• Service and support — Service call status and support history, service contract, online discussions with technical support

• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my computer configuration, product specifications, and white papers

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates

• Notebook System Software (NSS)— If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the NSS utility. NSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell™

3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel

Pentium® M 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.

• How to use Windows XP

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

Enter your Service Tag or product model.

In the

Select the operating system and operating system language for your computer, and click

Under

Configuration Utilities Software

Windows Help and Support Center

Click the

Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

and click

Download Category

Select a Device

, scroll to

, and click

Start

button and click

Downloads

drop-down menu, click

Submit.

System and

Dell Notebook System

Help and Support

All

10 Finding Information

Page 11

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

1 display latch release 5 touch pad 9 keyboard

2 display latches (2) 6 touch pad buttons 10 power button

3 display 7 speakers

4 keyboard status lights 8 device status lights

A Tour of Your Computer 11

Page 12

DISPLAY LATCH RELEASE — Slide to release the display latches and open the display.

DISPLAY LATCHES — Keeps the display closed.

DISPLAY — For more information about your display, see “

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

Using the Display

.”

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

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.

TOUCH PAD/TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Provides the functionality of a mouse.

SPEAKERS — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the speaker-volume keyboard shortcuts. For

more information, see “

Speaker Functions

.”

12 A Tour of Your Computer

Page 13

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

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

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

Turns on when wireless networking is enabled. To enable or disable wireless networking, press <Fn><F2>.

NOTE: Wireless networking is optional and may not be available on your computer.

NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is flashing.

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 — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft Windows logo key. For information

on supported keyboard shortcuts, see “

POWER BUTTON — Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power management mode.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data when you turn off your computer, shut down your computer through the Start menu

instead of pressing the power button.

Key Combinations

.”

A Tour of Your Computer 13

Page 14

Left Side View

453 7 81 2 6

1 modem connector 4 USB connectors (3) 7 ExpressCard slot

2 network connector 5 microphone connector 8 ExpressCard slot release

button

3 video connector 6 headphone connector

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

To use the internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

For additional information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer.

NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the computer, do

not plug a telephone line into the network connector.

14 A Tour of Your Computer

Page 15

NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)

Connects the computer to a network. The green and yellow lights next to the connector indicate activity for wired network communications.

For information on using the network adapter, see the online network adapter documentation supplied with your computer.

VIDEO CONNECTOR

Connects an external VGA-compatible monitor.

USB CONNECTORS

Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. You can also connect the optional floppy drive USB connector using the optional floppy-drive

CONNECTORS

AUDIO

directly to a

cable.

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

EXPRESSCARD SLOT — Supports one ExpressCard. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see “

Using ExpressCards

.”

A Tour of Your Computer 15

Page 16

Right Side View

1 optical drive bay 2 optical drive-tray eject button 3 security cable slot

OPTICAL DRIVE — You can install devices such as a DVD drive or other optical drive in the optical drive

bay. For more information, see “

OPTICAL-DRIVE-TRAY EJECT BUTTON — Press this button to eject a CD or DVD from the optical drive.

SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more

information, see the instructions included with the device.

NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot.

CD/DVD Drive

.”

16 A Tour of Your Computer

Page 17

Back View

1 AC adapter connector 2 air vent

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.

CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power

strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to the power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage.

NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the connector, not the cable itself,

and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable.

CAUTION: Do not block or push objects into 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 VENT — The computer uses fans to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from

overheating.

A Tour of Your Computer 17

Page 18

Bottom View

1 memory module/Mini PCI

4 battery 7 thermal module cover

cover

2 optical drive locking screw 5 battery-bay latch lock 8 fan

3 hard drive cover 6 battery-bay latch release

MEMORY MODULE/MINI PCI COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the memory module(s) and Mini

Memory

PCI card. For more information on replacing memory, see “ PCI card, see “

OPTICAL DRIVE LOCKING SCREW — Secures the optical drive in the optical drive bay. For more information, see

CD/DVD Drive

“

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data. For more information, see “

BATTERY — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an

Wireless Mini PCI Card

.”

electrical outlet. For more information, see “

BATTERY-BAY LATCH LOCK — Unlocks the battery so that it can be released from the battery bay.

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE — Releases the battery from the battery bay. See “

PROCESSOR AND THERMAL MODULE COVER — Covers the processor and thermal module.

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

.”

Using a Battery

.” For more information on replacing the Mini

Hard Drive

.”

Replacing the Battery

.”

18 A Tour of Your Computer

Page 19

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:

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

Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

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:

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

Click the

The

Start

button and click

New Connection Wizard

Internet Explorer

appears.

Click

Connect to the Internet

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

• If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click

providers (ISPs)

Choose from a list of Internet service

Setting Up Your Computer 19

Page 20

• If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD,

Set up my connection manually

click

• If you have a CD, click

Click

If you selected

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions

on the screen to complete the setup.

NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.

Click the appropriate option under

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

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "

How do you want to connect to the Internet?

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

, and then click

." 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 or USB connection, or you can store it on a removable medium, such as a writable CD or floppy, for transfer to the new computer.

NOTE: You can transfer information from the old computer to the new computer by directly connecting the two

computers with a USB cable. To transfer data over a USB connection, you must access the Network Connections utility from the Control Panel and perform additional configuration steps, such as setting up an advanced connection and designating the host computer and the guest computer. For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, see Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #305621, titled How to Set Up a Direct Cable Connection Between Two Computers in Windows XP. This information may not be available in some countries.

For transferring information to a new computer, you must run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. You can use the optional Operating System CD for this process or you can create a wizard disk with the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard utility.

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.

20 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 21

To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:

Start the

When the

On the

On the and click

When the click

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

Under

On the

After the information has been copied, the

Click

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the settings and files and click

The new computer.

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

Now go to your old computer

at this time.

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

What do you want to transfer?

Finish

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

, click

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

screen on the new computer, click

screen, click

screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do

Transfer files and settings

welcome screen, click

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Completing the Collection Phase

screen, select the method you chose for transferring your

reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer

I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD

Operating System

screen, click

Old Computer

and click

CD.

Perform additional tasks

and click

screen appears.

not

When all of the settings and files have been applied, the

Click

Finished

and restart the new computer.

Finished

screen appears.

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD

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

To create a wizard disk, use your new computer with Windows XP and perform the following steps:

Click the

Click

When the

Start

button.

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

welcome screen appears, click

Setting Up Your Computer 21

Page 22

On the

drive:

Insert the removable media, such as a floppy disk or CD, and click OK.

When the disk creation completes and the

Go to the old computer.

Which computer is this?

screen, click

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

and click

Next.

New Computer

screen, click

and click

I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following

Now go to your old computer

message appears,

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click the

In the media) and click

On the

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Start

Open

button and click

field on the

Run

window, browse to the path for

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

What do you want to transfer?

Finish

fastwiz

(on the appropriate removable

welcome screen, click

Old Computer

and click

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Completing the Collection Phase

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

. Follow the instructions on the screen.

screen, select the method you chose for transferring your

The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer.

screen appears.

do not

click

When all of the settings and files have been applied, the

Click

Finished

NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search dell.support.com for document #PA1089586 (How Do I

Transfer Files From My Old Computer to My New Dell™ Computer Using the Microsoft System?).

NOTE: Access to the Dell Knowledge Base document may not be available in some countries.

and restart the new computer.

Finished

screen appears.

Windows® XP Operating

Setting Up a Printer

NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer.

22 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 23

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

Connecting a USB Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.

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

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

1 USB connector on computer 2 USB printer cable 3 connector on printer

Setting Up Your Computer 23

Page 24

Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the

Cancel

appears, click

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

Add New Hardware Wizard

window

Power Protection Devices

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

• Surge protectors

• Line conditioners

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Surge Protectors

Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help prevent damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or after power interruptions. Some surge protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain types of damage. Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge protector. A device with a higher joule rating offers more protection. Compare joule ratings to determine the relative effectiveness of different devices.

NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or power interruptions caused by

nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in your area, disconnect the telephone line from the telephone wall jack and disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet.

Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem protection. See the surge protector documentation for modem connection instructions.

NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the network cable from the

network wall jack during electrical storms.

Line Conditioners

NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.

Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level.

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage.

NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other devices,

such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection.

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

24 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 25

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.

The Dell QuickSet Brightness Meter shows the current brightness setting for the display. Right-click the icon in the taskbar to enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen.

NOTE: By default, the Brightness Meter appears in the lower-right

corner of the display. You can click and drag the meter to a preferred location.

NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your

portable computer, not monitors that you attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter appears, but the brightness level on the monitor does not change.

You can enable or disable the Brightness Meter from the QuickSet taskbar menu. When the meter is enabled, press the following keys to adjust brightness:

• Press <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).

For more information on using QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.

Switching the Video Image

When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector) attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the external device.

Press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously.

Using the Display 25

Page 26

Setting Display Resolution

To display a program at a specific resolution, both the graphics card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.

Before you change any of the default display settings, make a note of the default settings for future reference.

If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values.

Click the

Under

Display

Try different settings for

NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen.

Start

button and click

Pick a category

Pick a task...

, click the area you want to change, or under

Control Panel

, click

Appearance and Themes

Color quality

and

Screen resolution

or pick a Control Panel icon

, click

26 Using the Display

Page 27

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

1 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.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 27

Page 28

Key Combinations

System Functions

<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Task Manager window.

CD or DVD Tray

<Fn><F10> Ejects the tray out of the drive (if Dell QuickSet is

installed). For more information on QuickSet, see

Dell™ QuickSet Features

“

Display Functions

<Fn><F8> Switches the video image to the next display option. The

options include the integrated display, an external monitor, and both displays simultaneously.

<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).

Radios (Including Wireless Networking)

.”

<Fn><F2> Enables and disables radios, including wireless

networking.

NOTE: Wireless networking is optional and may not be

available on your computer.

Power Management

<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 “

Management Modes

28 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

.”

Power

Page 29

Speaker Functions

<Fn><Page Up> Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and

external speakers, if attached.

<Fn><Page Dn> Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and

external speakers, if attached.

<Fn><End> Enables and disables the integrated speakers and external

speakers, if attached.

Microsoft

Windows logo key and <m>

Windows logo key and <Shift><m>

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>

Windows logo key and <Pause>

Windows® Logo Key Functions

Minimizes all open windows.

Maximizes all windows.

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

Opens the System Properties dialog box.

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see “

and Support Center

.”

Windows Help

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 29

Page 30

Touch Pad

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

1 touch pad

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

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

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

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

Customizing the Touch Pad

You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad or adjust their settings.

Open the Control Panel, click about the Control Panel, see “Windows Help and Support Center.”

In the

Mouse Properties

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

30 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Printers and Other Hardware

window, click the

Touch Pad

, and then click

tab to adjust touch pad settings.

Mouse

. For information

Page 31

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 main battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.

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

NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a

CD or DVD.

• Using wireless communications devices, ExpressCards, or USB devices

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

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode

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.

CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the

battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.

CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a

charge, call your local waste disposal or environmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" in the Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture,

incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.

Using a Battery 31

Page 32

Checking the Battery Charge

The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and icon, 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 window displays status, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer.The following icons appear in the Battery Meter window:

The computer is running on battery power.

The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is charging.

The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is fully charged.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, doubleclick the icon on the taskbar.

If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears.

Low-Battery Warning

NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery warning. Then

connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.

A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted.

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.

32 Using a Battery

Page 33

• 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 “Power Management Wizard.”

NOTE: See ”

Battery Performance

“ 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.

To enter standby mode:

• Click the

• Depending on how you set the power management options on the

Properties

– 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.

Start

button, click

Turn off computer

, and then click

window, use one of the following methods:

Stand by

Advanced

tab in the

Power Options

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 the

Start

button, click

Turn off computer

, press and hold <Shift>, and then click

Hibernate

Using a Battery 33

Page 34

• Depending on how you set the power management options on the

Properties

window, use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:

Advanced

tab in the

Power Options

– Press the power button.

– Close the display.

– Press <Fn><Esc>.

NOTE: ExpressCards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove and reinsert the

card, or simply restart (reboot) your computer.

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

Configuring Power Management Settings

You can use the QuickSet Power Management Wizard or Windows Power Options Properties to configure the power management settings on your computer.

Power Management Wizard

NOTE: The Power Management Wizard is not available if you have restricted access rights.

Click or double-click the icon to open the Power Management Wizard.

The first two screens of the wizard—Welcome and What is Power Management?—describe and define various power management options.

NOTE: On the What is Power Management? screen, you can select Do not show this page again. When you select

this option, the Welcome screen also does not appear again.

Use the screens that follow Welcome and What is Power Management? to set various power management options, including sleep modes, power schemes, and low battery-charge alarms.

Setting Sleep Modes

This screen defines standby and hibernate modes. From the screen you can:

• Set the standby-mode password option.

• Enable or disable hibernate mode.

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

– Choose no action.

– Enter standby mode.

– Enter hibernate mode.

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

– Choose no action.

– Enter standby mode.

34 Using a Battery

Page 35

– Enter hibernate mode.

– Shut down Microsoft Windows and turn off the computer.

– Prompt a user for an action (

Ask me what to do

• Select how the computer will respond when you press <Fn><Esc>:

– Choose no action.

– Enter standby mode.

– Enter hibernate mode.

– Shut down Microsoft Windows and turn off the computer.

– Prompt a user for an action (

Selecting a Power Scheme

NOTE: The Network Disabled power scheme disables your internal network and wireless activity when your

computer is running on battery power. When your computer is connected to an electrical outlet or docking device, the Network Disabled power scheme disables only your wireless activity. You must select the power scheme through QuickSet (not Microsoft

Ask me what to do

Windows®) for the Network Disabled power scheme to work.

The Selecting a Power Scheme screen allows you to create, edit, and switch between power schemes. In addition, you can delete power schemes that you create, but you cannot delete Dell™ QuickSet predefined power schemes (Maximum Battery, Maximum Performance, Presentation, and Network Disabled).

NOTE: QuickSet automatically adds the word (QuickSet) after the names of power schemes created using

QuickSet.

All QuickSet power schemes are displayed in a drop-down menu near the center of the screen. The power settings for each scheme are below the name of the current selection. The power settings are listed separately for when the computer is running on battery or connected to an electrical outlet.

The Power Management Wizard also allows you to associate the display brightness level with a power scheme. You must enable brightness-level power schemes through QuickSet in order to set the brightness level.

The display brightness, internal network-card activity, and wireless activity features are not available through the Control Panel power schemes. In order to use of these features, you must set them through QuickSet power schemes.

NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors that you

attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is in CRT-only mode and you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter appears, but the brightness level on the monitor does not change.

Using a Battery 35

Page 36

Setting Battery Alarms and Actions

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

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

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

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

– Choose no action.

– Enter standby mode.

– Enter hibernate mode.

– Shut down Windows and turn off the computer.

Completing the Power Management Wizard

This screen summarizes the QuickSet power scheme, sleep mode, and battery alarm settings for your computer. Review the settings you have selected and click Finish.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.

Power Options Properties

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

Power Schemes Tab

The Power schemes drop-down menu displays the selected preset power scheme. Keep the default Portable/Laptop power scheme to maximize battery power.

Windows XP controls the performance level of the processor depending on the power scheme you select. You do not need to make any further adjustments to set the performance level.

Each preset power scheme has different time-out settings for entering standby mode, turning off the display, and turning off the hard drive. For more information on power management options, see “

Windows Help and Support Center

Alarms Tab

NOTE: To enable audible alarms, click each Alarm Action button and select Sound alarm.

.”

The Low battery alarm and Critical battery alarm settings alert you with a message when the battery charge falls below a certain percentage. When you receive your computer, the Low battery alarm and Critical battery alarm check boxes are selected. It is recommended that you continue to use these settings. For more information on low-battery warnings, see “

Low-Battery Warning

.”

36 Using a Battery

Page 37

Power Meter Tab

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

Advanced Tab

The Advanced tab allows you to:

• Set power icon and standby mode password options.

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

– Choose no action.

– Enter standby mode.

– Enter hibernate mode.

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

– Choose no action.

– Enter standby mode.

– Enter hibernate mode.

– Shut down Microsoft Windows and turn off the computer.

– Prompt a user for an action (

• Select how the computer will respond when you press <Fn><Esc>:

– Choose no action.

– Enter standby mode.

– Enter hibernate mode.

– Shut down Microsoft Windows and turn off the computer.

– Prompt a user for an action (

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

Ask me what to do

Hibernate Tab

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

Charging the Battery

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.

Using a Battery 37

Page 38

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

.”

Replacing the Battery

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter from the

electrical outlet and the computer, disconnect the modem from the wall connector and computer, and remove any other external cables from the computer.

NOTICE: You must remove all external cables from the computer to avoid possible connector damage.

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.

To remove the battery:

If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.

Ensure that the computer is turned off.

Slide the battery-bay latch release lock on the bottom of the computer away from the battery.

Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release, and then remove the battery from the bay.

1 battery 2 battery-bay latch release 3 battery-bay latch release lock

To replace the battery, follow the removal procedure in reverse order.

38 Using a Battery

Page 39

Storing a Battery

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

Charging the Battery

.”

Using a Battery 39

Page 40

40 Using a Battery

Page 41

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Playing a CD or DVD

NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you

are not using the drive.

NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs to prevent damage to your CD/DVD

drive or discs.

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

Pull out the tray.

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 need to install the drivers and

software necessary to play CDs or DVDs or write data.

Push the tray back into the drive.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 41

Page 42

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.

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

Adjusting the Volume

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

Click the

Control

In the 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 rightclick the icon in the taskbar or press the volume control buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.

Start

button, point to

Volume Control

All Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment

window, click and drag the bar in the

Volume Control

, and then click

Volume

column and slide it up

1 volume icon 2 Volume Meter 3 mute icon

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

• Press

<Fn><PageUp> to increase the volume.

<Fn><PageDn> to decrease the volume.

<Fn><End> to mute the volume.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.

42 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Page 43

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.

Click the

Under

In the resolution setting.

Click the drop-down menu under

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Start

button and click

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display Properties

, click

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Change the screen resolution

window, click and drag the bar in

Color quality

, and then click

Screen resolution

Medium (16 bit)

to reduce the screen

Copying CDs and DVDs

NOTE: Please observe all copyright laws when creating CDs or DVDs.

This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD (combo) drive.

NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.

The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic DigitalMedia for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Sonic DigitalMedia and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive and you

experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at www.sonic.com.

The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to and read DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R and DVD-RW media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM media. In addition, Dell-installed DVD-writable drives can read and write to DVD+R DL (dual layer) media.

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic DigitalMedia.

Click the

RecordNow Copy

Under the

Start

button, point to

Copy

tab, click

All Programs→

Disc Copy

Sonic→ DigitalMedia Projects

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 43

and then click

Page 44

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

If you have one CD or DVD drive

button. The computer will read your source CD or DVD and copy the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive and click

, ensure that the settings are correct and click the

Disc Copy

If you have two CD or DVD drives

•

DVD and click the

Disc Copy

, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or

button. The computer copies the data from the source CD or DVD

to the blank CD or DVD.

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

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed CD-RW) while DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.

Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.

Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is “finalized” or “closed” during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+/-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.

CD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +R W Yes Ye s Ye s

DV D -R W Yes Yes Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

44 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Page 45

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

DVD-R DL Maybe No No

DVD-RAM Maybe No No

Helpful Tips

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

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

• You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic DigitalMedia.

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

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

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

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

• See the Sonic website at

www.sonic.com

for additional information.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 45

Page 46

46 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Page 47

Using ExpressCards

ExpressCard Types

For information on supported ExpressCards, see “

NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.

Specifications

.”

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

.”

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:

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.

Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.

If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again.

Using ExpressCards 47

Page 48

1 2

1 ExpressCard or blank 2 ExpressCard release latch

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

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

NOTICE: Use the ExpressCard configuration utility (click the icon in the taskbar) to select a card and stop it

from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration utility, you could lose data.

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

Information Guide.

Press the latch and remove the card or blank. For some latches, you must press the latch twice: once to pop the latch out, and then a second time to pop the card out.

Save a blank to use when no ExpressCard is installed in a slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles.

48 Using ExpressCards

Page 49

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a network adapter installed and a network cable connected to it.

To connect a network cable:

NOTE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the computer. Do not plug the network

cable into the modem connector on the computer. Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack.

Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.

Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.

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

Network 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.

Click the

Network Setup Wizard

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 49

, and then click

Page 50

On the

Click

NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated

firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1) or later.

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

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

Network Setup Wizard

Checklist for creating a network

welcome screen, click

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

NOTE: Wireless networking is optional and may not be available on your computer.

Determining Your Network Type

NOTE: Most wireless networks are of the infrastructure type.

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

ad-hoc networkinfrastructure network

1 infrastructure network 2 ad-hoc network

Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP

Your wireless network card requires specific software and drivers in order to connect to a network. The software is already installed. If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions included in the user's guide for your wireless network card. The user’s guide is available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and may also be located on your computer desktop.

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

50 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Page 51

Click either the pop-up or the network icon to configure your computer for one of the available wireless networks.

The

Wireless Network Connections

window lists the wireless networks available in your area.

Click to select the network you want to configure, and then click

Connect

or double-click the network name in the list. If you select a secure network (identified by a icon), you must enter a password when prompted.

NOTE: Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information.

NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to a network.

After your computer is configured for the wireless network you selected, another pop-up notifies you that your computer is connected to the network you selected.

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

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 51

Page 52

52 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Page 53

Dell™ QuickSet Features

NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer.

Dell QuickSet is activated from the icon on the taskbar and functions differently when you click, double-click, or right-click the icon.

Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Click the icon to perform the following tasks:

• Adjust power management settings using the Power Management Wizard. For more information, see “Power Management Wizard.”

• Adjust the size of icons and toolbars.

• Select a power scheme that you set in the Power Management Wizard.

• Turn presentation mode on or off.

Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Double-click the icon to adjust power management settings using the Power Management Wizard.

Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:

• Enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen. For more information, see “Adjusting

Brightness.”

• Enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen. For more information, see “Adjusting the

Volume.”

• Turn the wireless activity indicator on or off.

•View

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

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.

Dell QuickSet Help

Dell™ QuickSet Features 53

Page 54

54 Dell™ QuickSet Features

Page 55

Solving Problems

Dell Diagnostics

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

Product Information Guide.

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in “

Problems

” and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.

Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD).

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may not ship with your computer.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.

Lockups and Software

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell. See “

Shut down the computer.

If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that

Contacting Dell

.”

came with your docking device for instructions.

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:

Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select

Diagnostics

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the

Microsoft

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.

from the boot menu and press <Enter>.

Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

Solving Problems 55

Page 56

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

Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue

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

Insert the

Shut down and restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities

CD.

Booting Dell

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 system setup.

When the boot device list appears, highlight

Select the

Ty p e 1 to start the

Select

Boot from CD-ROM

ResourceCD

option from the menu that appears and press <Enter>.

menu and press <Enter> to proceed.

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive

and press <Enter>.

from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select

the version appropriate for your computer.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

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.

56 Solving Problems

Page 57

Option Function

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.

If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.

If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell.

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell,

technical support will ask for your Service Tag.

If you run a test from the

Custom Test

Symptom Tree

option, click the applicable tab described in

the following table for more information.

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and

the problem description.

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for

running the test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected

device.

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

Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test

settings.

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

Drivers and Utilities

Solving Problems 57

Page 58

When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the

Main Menu

screen.

Main Menu

screen. To exit the Dell

Drive Problems

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

Information Guide.

NSURE THAT MICROSOFT

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 “

ENSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED ONTO THE SPINDLE.

HECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS.

HECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES — See “

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See “

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.

WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My

Cleaning Your Computer

.”

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Dell Diagnostics

.”

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 — For information on

standby mode, see “

CHANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE —

IF YOU CANNOT EJECT THE CD, CD-RW, DVD, OR DVD+RW DRIVE TRAY

Ensure that the computer is shut down.

Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive; push firmly until

Power Management Modes

.”

See the help files for your CD or DVD creation software.

the tray is partially ejected.

Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

58 Solving Problems

Page 59

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 —

system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.

RUN CHECK DISK —

Click the

Right-click

Click

Click the

Under

Click

Start

button and click

Local Disk C:

Properties

To ol s

tab.

Error-checking

, click

My Computer

Check Now

Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors

Start

A hot hard drive may prevent the operating

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.

HECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK

attachments:

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION.

HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK.

C C

ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK. SE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE

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

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

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

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

EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS —

Tools

, click

Options

, and then click

to remove the checkmark.

If you cannot open your e-mail

Security

Solving Problems 59

Page 60

RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS —

Modem Helper

. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem

Click the

Start

button, point to

Helper is not available on all computers.)

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

Click the

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click

Start

button and click

Control Panel

Printers and Other Hardware

Phone and Modem Options

Modems

Properties

tab.

, click the

Diagnostics

tab, and then click

communicating with Windows.

If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.

All Programs and

Query Modem

then click

to verify that the modem is

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET —

provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click

Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet

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 or external mouse may be faulty. For an external mouse,

check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program. If the problem persists, contact Dell. See “

BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces in the

proper place, and used the correct pathname.

CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE — The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed. Contact

Dell. See “

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer. See

“

Drive Problems

DATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot read the data. See “

Contacting Dell

.”

Contacting Dell

.”

Drive Problems

.”

60 Solving Problems

Page 61

DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly seated.

Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See “

DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in the Dell

Diagnostics. See “

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 “

ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD — The computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert the card or

try another card. See “

EXTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS CHANGED — The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not match

Dell Diagnostics

Hard Drive

Using ExpressCards

.”

Memory

.”

the memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell. See “

Contacting Dell

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 “

GENERAL FAILURE — The operating system is unable to carry out the command. The message is usually

Memory

.”

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

”), 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 “

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 “

Dell Diagnostics

.”

Hard Drive

.”), 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 “

Diagnostics

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

.”), and boot the computer from a CD. Then

Dell

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 “

HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer, remove

the hard drive (see “

Hard Drive

”), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer,

Dell Diagnostics

.”

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 “

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable CD. Insert a

Dell Diagnostics

.”

bootable CD.

Solving Problems 61

Page 62

INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION- PLEASE RUN SYS TE 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 “

the System Setup Program

KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard

Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics. See “

KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Restart the

.”

Dell Diagnostics

.”

Using

computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics. See “

KEYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard

Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics. See “

KEYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE — For external keyboards or keypads, check the cable connection. Restart

Dell Diagnostics

.”

the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the Stuck Key test in the Dell Diagnostics. See “

MEMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be

Dell Diagnostics

.”

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See “

Memory

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

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

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

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

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. See “

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set

tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See “

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN — You have too many

Dell Diagnostics

.”

Contacting Dell

.”

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

62 Solving Problems

Page 63

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Reinstall the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 83). If the problem

persists, see “

OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM — The optional ROM apparently failed. See “

A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential

Contacting Dell

.”

Contacting Dell

.”

file. Remove and then reinstall the program.

Click the Start button and click

Click

Add or Remove Programs

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

Remove

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

Change/Remove

Control Panel

and follow the prompts on the screen.

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. 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 “

TIME- OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER —

Dell Diagnostics

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.” If the message reappears, contact Dell.

TIME- OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED — The reserve battery that supports the system configuration settings may

See “

Contacting Dell.”

require recharging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, contact Dell. See “

TIME- OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYST E M SETUP PROGRAM — The time or date stored in the system

setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date and Time options.

“Using the System Setup Program

TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System

Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See “

UNEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED MODE — The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or a

Contacting Dell

.”

If the message reappears, contact Dell.

Dell Diagnostics

.”

See

See “

Contacting Dell

.”

memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics. See “

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

Dell Diagnostics

.”

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

Solving Problems 63

Page 64

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 “

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.

HECK 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 —

Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.

Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.

From the Windows desktop, click the

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 —

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the external keyboard.

Turn on the computer.

From the Windows desktop, click the

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.

See “

Contacting Dell.”

Start

Dell Diagnostics

button→

Programs→

” or the system setup program. When you

Accessories

, and click

Notepad

RUN THE KEYBOARD DIAGNOSTICS TESTS —

Diagnostics

. See “

Dell Diagnostics.” If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard,

Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell

Dell.”

Unexpected characters

DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD —

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

64 Solving Problems

Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed

see “

Contacting

Page 65

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.

URN THE COMPUTER OFF —

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 —

Press <Crtl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

Click the

Click

NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen.

HECK 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.

Applications

End Task

If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving

tab and select the program that is no longer responding.

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —

it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.

Click the

Wizard

In the welcome screen, click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories

The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so

, and then click

Program Compatibility

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF —

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

If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving

Solving Problems 65

Page 66

Memory Problems

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

Information Guide.

F 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.”

• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory

• Run the Dell Diagnostics

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

. See “

Memory.”

. See “

Dell Diagnostics.”

• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics.

See “

Memory.”

See “

Dell Diagnostics.”

See “

Memory.”

66 Solving Problems

Page 67

Network Problems

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

Information Guide.

HECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR —

Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the

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

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR —

No light indicates that no network

communication exists. Replace the network cable.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN.

HECK 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.

ExpressCard Problems

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

Information Guide.

HECK THE EXPRESSCARD —

ENSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED EXPRESSCARD —

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN EXPRESSCARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —

manufacturer.

Ensure that the ExpressCard is properly inserted into the connector.

Double-click the

Contact Dell.

Safely Remove Hardware

See “

Contacting Dell.”

Contact the ExpressCard

icon

Power Problems

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

Information Guide.

HECK THE POWER LIGHT —

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 “

HARGE THE BATTERY —

Reinstall the battery.

Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

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.

When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power

Power Management Modes

.”

The battery charge may be depleted.

Solving Problems 67

Page 68

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.

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. See “

CHECK THE BATTERY TEMPERATURE — If the battery temperature is below 0° C (32° F), the computer will

Contacting Dell

.”

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 “

RESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES —

reinstall the memory modules

. See “

Power Management Modes

.”

If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank,

Memory.”

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer

Your computer is designed to use the 90-W AC adapter; for optimum system performance, you should always use this adapter.

The 65-W AC adapters used in other Dell™ portable computers can be used with your computer, but they will decrease system performance. Using less-powerful AC adapters, including the 65-W AC adapter, will cause you to receive a

WARNING

message.

Printer Problems

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

Information Guide.

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s manufacturer.

NSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON.

HECK 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 —

device, such as a lamp.

68 Solving Problems

Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another

Page 69

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

Start

button, click

Control Panel

View installed printers or fax printers

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.

Click

Properties

port(s):

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER —

setting is

and click the

USB

Ports

tab. For a USB printer, ensure that the

Print to the following

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.

HECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION —

information.

CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION —

information.

UNLOCK THE SCANNER —

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN.

HECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —

Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

• 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 —

Click the

Click

Start

button, click

Scanners and Cameras

Control Panel

If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting

See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

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.

No sound from integrated speakers

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —

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.

Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your

Solving Problems 69

Page 70

ADJUST THE VOLUME USING KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS —

Press <Fn><End> to disable (mute) or re-enable

the integrated speakers.

REINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER —

See “Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities.”

No sound from external speakers

ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON —

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 —

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 “

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See “

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.

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Dell Diagnostics

.”

See the setup diagram supplied with

Sound from the speakers is automatically

.”

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into

the headphone connector. See “

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —

audio connectors

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

.”

Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Try adjusting the settings.

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —

and firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse directly to the computer.

70 Solving Problems

Start

Mouse

button, click

Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for damage,

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Page 71

TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE, CHECK THE TOUCH PAD —

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the mouse.

Turn on the computer.

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.”

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.

HECK THE BATTERY —

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

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET —

device, such as a lamp.

CHECK THE AC ADAPTER —

that the light is on.

CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET —

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

ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES —

Center”.

SWITCH THE VIDEO IMAGE —

switch the video image to the display.

If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be

Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another

Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure

Bypass power protection devices, power

Search for the keyword

standby

in the “Windows Help and Support

If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press <Fn><F8> to

If the display is difficult to read

ADJUST THE BRIGHTNESS —

MOVE THE EXTERNAL SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR —

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 —

appliances.

ROTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION —

picture quality.

Press <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key

If your external speaker

Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other

Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor

Solving Problems 71

Page 72

ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Click the area you want to change or click the

Try different settings for

SEE "ERROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see “

Start

button and then click

Appearance and Themes

Color quality

Control Panel

Display

and

Screen resolution

icon.

Error Messages.”

If only part of the display is readable

CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —

Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.

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.

Dell.”

See “

Contacting

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.

72 Solving Problems

Page 73

Windows XP

Click the

Under

Click

In the

Click

Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the

Start

button and click

Pick a Category

System

System Properties

Device Manager

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

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.”

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com or your Drivers and Utilities CD provides approved drivers

for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

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

Click the

Under

Click

In the

Click

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

Click the

Click

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.

Start

button and click

Pick a Category

System

System Properties

Device Manager

Drivers

tab.

Roll Back Driver

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Properties

Solving Problems 73

Page 74

Using the Drivers and Utilities CD

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD 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.

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

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 time that you run the CD, it might prompt you to install setup files. Click

autorcd.exe

, and follow the

file. The first

instructions on the screen to continue.

From the

Language

drop-down menu in the toolbar, select your preferred language for the driver or

utility (if available). A welcome screen appears.

Click

The CD automatically scans your hardware to detect drivers and utilities used by your computer.

After the CD completes the hardware scan, you can also detect other drivers and utilities. Under

Search Criteria To pi c

drop-down menus.

, select the appropriate categories from the

System Model, Operating System

A link or links appear(s) for the specific drivers and utilities used by your computer.

Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or utility that you want to install.

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.

, and

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 you are reinstalling an infrared sensor driver, you must first enable the infrared sensor in system setup

before continuing with the driver installation. See “

After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous section, click the button and right-click

Click

Properties

Click the

Hardware

My Computer

tab and click

Device Manager

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

.”

74 Solving Problems

Start

Page 75

Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example,

Infrared devices

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

Click the

Click

Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)

Click

Browse

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Finish

Driver

tab and click

and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files.

and restart your computer.

Update Driver

and click

Modems

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:

Click the

Ty p e

Click

In the click

Start

button and click

hardware troubleshooter

Hardware Troubleshooter

Help and Support

in the

list, click

in the

field and click the arrow to start the search.

Search Results

I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer

list.

, and

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.

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

• If you received an system. However, using the

only

if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

Operating System

CD with your computer, you can use it to restore your operating

CD also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the CD

Solving Problems 75

Page 76

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access the Windows Help and Support Center, see “

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

them.

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you

set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.

Creating a Restore Point

Click the

Click the task for

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 73) 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.

Click the

Restore

Ensure that

Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.

The All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.

Windows Help and Support Center

Start

button and click

System Restore

Start

button, point to

Help and Support

All Programs→

Restore my computer to an earlier time

Select a Restore Point

screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points.

.”

Accessories→

System Tools

is selected and click

, and then click

System

Select a restore point and click

If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected. If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.

Click

The

Restoration Complete

screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the

computer restarts.

After the computer restarts, click OK.

To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can undo the restoration.

76 Solving Problems

Page 77

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.

Click the

Restore

Click

Enabling System Restore

Start

button, point to

Undo my last restoration

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

and click

, and then click

System

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:

Click the

Click

Click the

Ensure that

Start

button and click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

System

System Restore

tab.

Turn off System Restore

is unchecked.

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec

NOTICE: Using PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications or drivers

installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using PC Restore. Use PC Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

NOTE: Dell PC Restore by Symantec is not available in all countries or on all 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:

Turn on the computer.

During the boot process, a blue bar with

www.dell.com

appears at the top of the screen.

Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press <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.

On the next screen that appears, click

On the next screen, click

Confirm

Restore

The restore process takes approximately 6–10 minutes to complete.

Solving Problems 77

Page 78

When prompted, click

NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot.

When prompted, click

Finish

to reboot the computer.

Yes

The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the screens that appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that appeared the first time the computer was turned on.

Click

The

System Restore

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.

screen appears and the computer restarts.

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:

Log on to the computer as a local administrator.

In Windows Explorer, go to

Double-click the filename

c:\dell\utilities\DSR

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.

Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.

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.

Right-click

Local Disk (C)

space is available as indicated by the increased value for

Click

Finish

to close the

Restart the computer.

78 Solving Problems

in Windows Explorer, click

PC Restore Removal

window.

Properties

Free Space

, and verify that the additional disk

Page 79

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 “

Driver Rollback

.” If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use 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

.”

To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:

•Dell™

•Dell

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer. Use the

Reinstalling Windows XP

Operating System

Drivers and Utilities

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 system.

To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which they are listed.

The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.

NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files

and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.

Using Windows XP Device

System Restore

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.

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

Insert the

Restart the computer.

Press <F2> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.

Operating System

CD. Click

Exit

if the

Install Windows XP

message appears.

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

Press the arrow keys to select

When the

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the reinstallation.

When the operating system reinstallation completes, reinstall drivers and applications as necessary.

Press any key to boot from CD

Windows XP Setup

CD-ROM

, and press <Enter>.

message appears, press any key.

screen appears, press <Enter>.

Solving Problems 79

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80 Solving Problems

Page 81

Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Begin

This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:

• You have performed the steps in “Turning Off Your Computer” and “Before Working Inside Your

Computer.”

• You have read the safety information in your Dell™

Recommended Tools

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

• Small flat-blade screwdriver

• Philips screwdriver

• Small plastic scribe

• Flash BIOS update (see the Dell Support website at

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.

Shut down the operating system:

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the

Turn Off Computer

In the

Turn off computer

The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.

window, click

Turn o f f

Product Information Guide.

support.dell.com

)

Start

button, and then click

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

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.

Adding and Replacing Parts 81

Page 82

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

Information Guide.

CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card

by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.

NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing

that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.

NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself.

Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.

Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.

Turn off your computer. See “Turning Off Your Computer.”

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

network wall jack.

Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer.

Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you service the computer.

Remove the battery.

Slide the battery-bay latch release lock on the bottom of the computer away from the battery.

Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release, and then remove the battery from the bay.

1 battery 2 battery-bay latch release 3 battery-bay latch release lock

82 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 83

Press the power button to ground the system board.

Remove any installed ExpressCards from the ExpressCard slot. See “Removing an ExpressCard or

Blank.”

Close the display and turn the computer upside down on a flat work surface.

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 before removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard drive

while the computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate mode.

NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile; even a slight bump can damage the drive.

NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than Dell.

NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to install an operating system,

drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive.

To replace the hard drive in the hard drive bay:

Follow the procedures in “Before You Begin.”

Turn the computer over, and loosen the two captive screws in the hard drive cover.

1 captive screws (2)

Adding and Replacing Parts 83

Page 84

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.

Lift the cover off the computer and set it aside.

Slide the hard drive carrier away from the screw holes, and then use the tab to lift the hard drive straight up to remove it from the computer.

Remove the new drive from its packaging.

Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.

NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage the

connector.

Seat the new hard drive into the bay, and then slide it into the connector by sliding it toward the screw holes until it is fully seated.

Replace the cover and tighten the screws.

Install the operating system for your computer. See “Restoring Your Operating System.”

Install the drivers and utilities for your computer. See “Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities.”

84 Adding and Replacing Parts

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Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

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

1 foam packaging 2 hard drive

CD/DVD Drive

NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, store them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in the

computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.

NOTE: If your computer shipped with a device security screw and the screw is not installed, you can remove and

install devices while the computer is running and connected to a docking device.

While the computer is turned on

the device that you want to eject, and click

Close your display and turn the computer upside down.

Use a Philips screwdriver to remove the device security screw from the bottom of the computer.

Using a screwdriver or some other type of probe, push the notch where the device security screw was

, double-click the

Stop

Safely Remove Hardware

icon on the taskbar, click

removed toward the outside of the computer.

Pull the device straight out of the media bay.

Adding and Replacing Parts 85

Page 86

1 2 3

1 CD/DVD drive 2 drive removal slot 3 securing screw

To replace the device, push the new device straight into the media bay until it clicks.

Replace the security device screw.

Turn the computer right-side up and open the display.

The operating system automatically recognizes the device. If necessary, enter your password to unlock your computer.

Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See “

Specifications

modules that are intended for your computer.

NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.

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

Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin working inside

the computer.

86 Adding and Replacing Parts

” for information on the memory supported by your computer. Install only memory

Page 87

The computer has two memory slots, DIMM A and DIMM B, both located on the bottom of the computer under the memory module/Mini PCI cover. DIMM A holds the basic memory module as configured from the factory. If you did not order additional memory, DIMM B will be empty. Generally, if you are adding memory, you will install a memory module in DIMM B. If you are upgrading memory, you may need to install memory in DIMM A and B depending on the extent of the upgrade.

Follow the procedures in “Before You Begin.”

Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.

NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.

Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the memory module/Mini PCI cover, and then remove the cover.

1 captive screws (3)

NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory-module

securing clips.

If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:

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

Remove the module from the connector.

Adding and Replacing Parts 87

Page 88

1 memory module 2 securing clips (2 per

connector)

NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the connector

labeled “DIMMA” before you install a module in the connector labeled “DIMMB.” Insert memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.

NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error message

indicates this failure.

Ground yourself and install the new memory module:

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

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

88 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 89

1 memory slot notch 2 memory slot tab

Replace the memory module/Mini PCI cover and tighten the screws.

NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may

damage your computer.

Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer.

As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration information.

To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click the Start button, click Help and Support, and then click Computer Information.

Adding and Replacing Parts 89

Page 90

Wireless Mini PCI Card

If you ordered a Mini PCI card with your computer, the card is already installed.

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

Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin working inside

the computer.

Follow the procedures in “Before You Begin.”

Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the memory module/Mini PCI cover, and then remove the cover.

If a Mini PCI card is not already installed, go to step 4. If you are replacing a Mini PCI card, remove the existing card:

Disconnect the antenna cable from the Mini PCI card.

90 Adding and Replacing Parts

1 captive screws (3)

Page 91

1 antenna cable

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

Lift the Mini PCI card out of its connector.

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

realign the card.

Adding and Replacing Parts 91

Page 92

1 Mini PCI card 2 metal securing tabs (2)

Install the replacement Mini PCI card:

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the Mini PCI card, ensure that the antenna cable is not under the card when you click

the card into place.

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

the connector until it clicks.

92 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 93

1 Mini PCI card 2 metal securing tabs (2)

Connect the antenna cable to the Mini PCI card. Ensure that the cable snaps onto the primary connector on the Mini PCI card.

Adding and Replacing Parts 93

Page 94

1 antenna cable

Replace the memory module/Mini PCI cover and tighten the screws.

NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may

damage your computer.

Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer.

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).

NOTICE: The hinge cover is fragile and can be damaged if extreme force is used. Be careful when removing the

hinge cover.

Follow the procedures in “Before You Begin.”

Remove the battery. See “Replacing the Battery.”

94 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 95

Turn the computer right-side up, and then open the display all the way (180 degrees) so that it rests on your work surface.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the hinge cover, do not lift the cover on both sides simultaneously.

Insert a scribe in the indent to lift the hinge cover on the right side.

1 hinge cover 2 indent

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

To replace the hinge cover, insert the left edge of the cover into place.

Press from left to right until the cover snaps into place.

Close the display and turn the computer upside-down.

Replace the battery. See “Replacing the Battery.”

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).

Follow the procedures in “Before You Begin.”

Remove the hinge cover. See “Hinge Cover.”

Adding and Replacing Parts 95

Page 96

Remove the two 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.

Lift the keyboard, and hold it up and slightly forward to allow access to the keyboard connector on the system board.

Lift the keyboard connector and slide out the keyboard cable.

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 secure the keyboard in place.

To replace the keyboard, connect the keyboard connector to the system board.

Place the tabs along the front edge of the keyboard into the palm rest and lay the keyboard down on the palmrest.

Replace the two screws at the top of the keyboard.

Replace the hinge cover. See “Hinge Cover.”

1 keyboard 2 system board connector

96 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 97

Appendix

Specifications

Processor

Processor type Intel

L2 cache 2 MB (Pentium)

External bus frequency (front side bus)

System Information

System chip set Intel 910GML or 915GM

Data bus width 64 bits

DRAM bus width dual channel (2) 64-bit buses

Processor address bus width 32 bits

Flash EPROM 512 KB

Graphics Bus internal

PCI bus 32 bits

Pentium® M or Intel Celeron® M

1 MB (Celeron)

400 MHz or 533 MHz

ExpressCard

ExpressCard controller ICH6M

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 28 pins

Memory

Memory module connectors two user-accessible SODIMM connectors

Memory module capacities 256 MB, 512 MB, and 1 GB each

Appendix 97

Page 98

Memory (continued)

Memory type 1.8-V SODIMM DDR-2

Minimum memory 256 MB

Maximum memory 2 GB

Ports and Connectors

Audio microphone connector, stereo

headphone/speakers connector

Mini PCI one Type IIIA Mini PCI card slot

Modem RJ-11 port

Network adapter RJ-45 port

USB three 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors

Video 15-hole connector

Communications

Modem:

Ty p e

Controller

Interface

Network adapter 10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board

Wireless internal Mini PCI Wi-Fi wireless technology

v.92 56K MDC

Conexant CX11254/CX20493

internal HDA bus

support

Video

Video type: integrated on system board

Video controller

Video memory

LCD interface

Intel Integrated Graphics Media Accelerator 900

Up to 64 MB of shared memory (when less than 512 MB system memory is installed.)

Up to 128 MB of shared memory (when more than 512 MB system memory is installed)

LVDS

98 Appendix

Page 99

Audio

Audio type HDA bus

Audio controller STAC9200

Stereo conversion 18- or 24-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-

to-analog)

Interfaces:

Internal

External

Speaker two 4-ohm speakers

Internal speaker amplifier 1-W channel into 4 ohms

Volume controls keyboard shortcuts, program menus

Display

Type (active-matrix TFT) 14.1-inch or 15.4-inch WXGA

Dimensions:

15.4-inch

Height

Width

Diagonal

14.1-inch

Height

Width

Diagonal

Maximum resolutions:

WXGA

Refresh rate 60 Hz

Operating angle 0° (closed) to 180°

Viewing angles:

Horizontal

Vertical

HDA bus

microphone-in connector, stereo headphones/speakers connector

207 mm (8.2 inches)

331.2 mm (13.1 inches)

391.2 mm (15.4 inches)

189.8 mm (7.5 inches)

303.7 mm (11.9 inches)

358.1 mm (14.1 inches)

1280 x 800 at 262,144 colors

±40° typical

+10°/–30°

Appendix 99

Page 100

Display (continued)

Pixel pitch:

15.4-inch

14.1-inch

Controls brightness can be controlled through

Keyboard

Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe);

Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji

Touch Pad

X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) 240 cpi

Size:

Width

Height

Battery

Type 4-cell lithium ion

Dimensions:

Depth

Height

Width

Weight 0.24 kg (1.06 lb) (4 cell)

Voltage 14.8 VDC (4-cell)

0.2588 mm

0.237 mm

keyboard shortcuts

91 (Japan)

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

42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle

6-cell lithium ion

54 mm (2.13 inches)

24 mm (0.94 inch)

250 mm (9.84 inches)

0.35 kg (0.7 lb) (6 cell)

11.1 VDC (6-cell)

100 Appendix

Dell 1300 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Contents

Finding Information

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System CD

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

Switching the Video Image

Setting Display Resolution

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

System Functions

CD or DVD Tray

Display Functions

Radios (Including Wireless Networking)

Power Management

Speaker Functions

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Power Management Modes

Configuring Power Management Settings

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Playing a CD or DVD

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

Using ExpressCards

ExpressCard Types

ExpressCard Blanks

Installing an ExpressCard

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Network Setup Wizard

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

Determining Your Network Type

Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP

Dell™ QuickSet Features

Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Solving Problems

Dell Diagnostics

Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems