Dell 200 User Manual 2

front-panel door (push to open)
power button
power light
Dell™ XPS™ 200
Owner’s Manual
front-panel door (open)
diagnostic lights
hard-drive activity light
headphone connector
microphone connector
IEEE 1394 connector
optional floppy drive or Media Card Reader*
CD or DVD drive light
USB 2.0 connectors (2)
Model DHP
voltage selection switch
line-out connector
line-in connector
rear-surround sound connector
modem connector
network connector
*
Not present on certain computers.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
power connector
microphone/side-surround sound connector center/LFE connector
S/PDIF-out connector
integrated video connector
USB 2.0 connectors (5)
IEEE 1394 connector
PCI Express x16 card slot
PCI Express x1 card slot
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.
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.
____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2006 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, P owerEdge, P owerV ault, P owerApp,
DellNet, and PowerConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, Intel SpeedStep, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are registered trademarks of Microsoft 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 DHP
September 2006 P/N TD649 Rev. A03

Contents

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Printer Cable
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Connecting a USB Printer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)
Connecting a TV (Optional)
Changing the Display Settings
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Setting Up a Home and Office Network
Connecting to a Network Adapter Network Setup Wizard
Connecting to the Internet
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Setting Up Your Internet Connection
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
Power Management
Standby Mode Hibernate Mode Power Options Properties
Understanding Intel
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
®
Viiv™ Technology (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Contents 3
Using Intel® Viiv™ Quick Resume Technology (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Enabling the QRT Feature in System Setup Enabling the QRT feature in the Operating system
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Hyper-Threading
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2 Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Battery Problems
Drive Problems
CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
Error Messages
Media Card Reader Problems
IEEE 1394 Device Problems
Keyboard Problems
Lockups and Software Problems
The computer does not start up The computer stops responding A program stops responding A program crashes repeatedly A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system A solid blue screen appears Other software problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
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4 Contents
Memory Problems
Mouse Problems
Network Problems
Power Problems
Printer Problems
Scanner Problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
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Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
No sound from speakers No sound from headphones
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Video and Monitor Problems
If the screen is blank If the screen is difficult to read
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
3 Troubleshooting Tools
Diagnostic Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Dell Diagnostics
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Drivers
What Is a Driver? Reinstalling Drivers
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
Restoring Your Operating System
Using Microsoft
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
4 Removing and Installing Parts
Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Front and Back View of the Computer
Front View Back View
Removing the Computer Cover
Inside View of Your Computer
System Board Components
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Contents 5
Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
DDR2 Memory Overview Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations Installing Memory Removing Memory
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Cards
Drives
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Connecting Drive Cables Drive Interface Connectors Power Cable Connector Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Hard Drive
CD/DVD Drive
Media Card Reader
Floppy Drive (Optional)
Modem
Battery
Replacing the Computer Cover
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Removing a Hard Drive Installing a Hard Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Removing a CD/DVD Drive Installing a CD/DVD Drive
Removing a Media Card Reader Installing a Media Card Reader
Removing a Floppy Drive Installing a Floppy Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Replacing the Modem Replacing the External Modem Connector
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Replacing the Battery
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
6 Contents
5 Appendix
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
System Setup
Overview Entering System Setup System Setup Options Boot Sequence
Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing CMOS Settings
Cleaning Your Computer
Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor Mouse CDs and DVDs
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)
Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
FCC Class B
Contacting Dell
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
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Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Contents 7
8 Contents

Finding Information

NOTE: Some features may not be available for your computer or in certain countries.
NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here
• Warranty information
• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
Dell™ Product Information Guide
• How to set up my computer
Setup Diagram
Finding Information 9
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here
• Service Tag and Express Service Code
• Microsoft Windows License Label
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, online courses, frequently asked questions
• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system
• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and order status, warranty, and repair information
• Service and support — Service call status and support history, service contract, online discussions with technical support
• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my computer configuration, product specifications, and white papers
• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates
• Desktop System Software (DSS)— If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the DSS utility. DSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell™
3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel processors, optical drives, and USB devices. DSS 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.
®
Pentium®M
Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License
These labels are located on your computer.
• 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.
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support
site.
Corporate, government, and education customers can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website at premier.support.dell.com. The website may not be available in all regions.
or
10 Finding Information
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here
• How to use Windows XP
• Documentation for my computer
• Documentation for devices (such as a modem)
Windows Help and Support Center
1
Click the
2
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon.
3
Click the topic that describes your problem.
4
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Start
button and click
Help and Support
.
Finding Information 11
12 Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up a Printer

NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer.
See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to:
Obtain and install updated drivers.
Connect the printer to the computer.
Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.
Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance.

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. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the computer box.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 13

Connecting a USB Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1
Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.
2
Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.
3
Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.
USB connector on computer
USB printer cable
USB connector on printer

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Use the Media Card Reader to transfer data directly to your computer.
The Media Card Reader supports the following memory types:
•xD-Picture Card
SmartMedia (SMC)
CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II)
MicroDrive Card
SecureDigital Card (SD)
MultiMediaCard (MMC)
Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)
14 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
For information on installing a Media Card Reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on page 83.
xD-Picture Card and SmartMedia (SMC)
CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II) and MicroDrive Card
Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)
SecureDigital Card (SD)/ MultiMediaCard (MMC)
To use the Media Card Reader:
1
Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion.
2
Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector.
If you encounter resistance, do not force the media or card. Check the card orientation and try again.

Connecting a TV (Optional)

NOTE: To connect a TV to your computer, you must have a video card that has TV-out functionality and
an S-video cable, which is available at most consumer electronics stores. An S-video cable is not included with your computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 55.
2
Connect one end of the S-video cable to the TV-OUT connector on the back of the computer.
3
Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15

Changing the Display Settings

1
After you connect the TV, turn on the computer.
®
The Microsoft
2
Enable clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings.
Windows® desktop displays on the monitor.
In clone mode, the monitor and TV display the same image.
In extended desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.
For information on changing the display settings for your graphics card, see the user’s guide in the Help and Support Center (click the
, click
system guides
Device guides
Start
button, click
Help and Support
, click
, and then click the guide for your graphics card).

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

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.
1
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.
2
Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device.
User and
network device
16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
network adapter connector on computer
network adapter connector
network cable

Network Setup Wizard

The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office.
1
Click the click
2
On the welcome screen, click
3
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 operating systems.
4
Complete the checklist and required preparations.
5
Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.
Start
button, point to
Network Setup Wizard
Checklist for creating a network
All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications
.
Next
.
, and then
.

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), such as AOL or MSN. 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 AOL or MSN connection:
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Double-click the
3
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
MSN Explorer
or
AOL
icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 17
If you do not have an Internet connection with a different ISP:
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Click the
New Connection Wizard
The
3
Click
Connect to the Internet
4
In the next window, click the appropriate option:
If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click
service providers (ISPs)
If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click
If you have a CD, click
5
Click
Next
If you selected instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.
6
Click the appropriate option under
Next
click
7
Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 31. 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.
MSN Explorer
Start
button and click
Set up my connection manually
.
Set up my connection manually
.
or
AOL
Internet Explorer
appears.
.
.
Use the CD I got from an ISP
How do you want to connect to the Internet?
icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an
.
Choose from a list of Internet
.
.
, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the
, and then

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.
1
Press the eject button on the front of the drive.
2
Place the disc, label side up in the center of the tray
3
Press the disc into the center of the tray until it clicks into place.
18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
4
Press the eject button or gently push in the tray.
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.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 19
A CD player includes the following basic buttons:
Play.
Move backward within the current track.
Pause.
Move forward within the current track.
Stop.
Go to the previous track.
Eject.
Go to the next track.
A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:
Stop.
Play.
Fast forward.
Pause.
Fast reverse.
Go to the next title or chapter.
Go to the previous title or chapter.
For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click
20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Help
on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.
1
Click the
Volume Control
2
In the slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.
For more information on volume control options, click
Start
button, point to
.
Volume Control
All Programs → Accessories→ Entertainment
window, click and drag the bar in the
Help
in the
Volume Control
Volume Control
, and then click
column and
window.

Adjusting the Picture

If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties.
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Under
4
In the setting to
5
Click the drop-down menu under
6
Click OK.
Start
button and click
Pick a category
Pick a task...
Display Properties
800 by 600 pixels
, click
, 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 change the
.

Copying CDs and DVDs

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

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive
and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at www.sonic.com.
The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 21
NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic
DigitalMedia.
1
Click the click
2
Under the
3
To copy the CD or DVD:
Start
button, point to
Copy
.
Copy
tab, click
If you have one CD or DVD drive
Copy
button. The computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies the data to a
All Programs→
Disc Copy
Sonic→ DigitalMedia Projects
.
, ensure that the settings are correct and click the
temporary folder on your computer hard drive.
When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive and click
OK
, and then
Disc
.
If you have two CD or DVD drives
• source CD or DVD and click the
, select the drive into which you have inserted your
Disc Copy
button. The computer copies the data from
the source CD or DVD to the blank CD or DVD.
Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created automatically ejects.

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed CD-RW) while DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.
Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.
Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+/-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.
CD-Writable Drives
Media Type Read Write Rewritable
CD-R Yes Yes No
CD-RW Yes Yes Yes
DVD-Writable Drives
Media Type Read Write Rewritable
CD-R Yes Yes No
CD-RW Yes Yes Yes
22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Media Type Read Write Rewritable
DVD+R Yes Yes No
DVD-R Yes Yes No
DV D +R W Yes Ye s Ye s
DV D -R W Ye s Ye s Ye s
DVD+R DL Yes Yes No
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.
Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos.
You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic DigitalMedia.
Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.
Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may not support all available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by your DVD player, see the documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer.
Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1–2 MB of the blank space to finalize the recording.
Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank CD-RWs to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.
See the Sonic website at
www.sonic.com
for additional information.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 23

Power Management

The Microsoft® Windows® XP power management features can reduce the amount of electricity your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can reduce power to just the monitor or the hard drive, or you can use standby mode or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire computer. When the computer exits from a power conservation mode, the Windows desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode.
NOTE: Windows XP Professional includes security and networking features not available in
Windows XP Home Edition. When a Windows XP Professional computer is connected to a network, different options related to security and networking appear in certain windows.

Standby Mode

Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out. When the computer exits from standby mode, it returns to the operating state it was in before it entered standby mode.
To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity:
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Under
To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click the
Turn Off Computer
To exit from standby mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.
Start
button and click
Pick a category
or pick a Control Panel icon
, click
, and then click
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
Stand by
, click
Power Options
.
.
.
.
Start
button, click
NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data.

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 from hibernate mode, the desktop is restored to the state it was in
To activate hibernate mode:
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Under
4
Define your hibernate settings on the
To exit from hibernate mode from hibernate mode. Pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the computer out of hibernation, because the keyboard and the mouse do not function when the computer is in hibernate mode.
24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Start
button and click
Pick a category
or pick a Control Panel icon
, click
before it entered hibernate mode.
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
, click
Power Schemes
,
press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit
.
Power Options
tab,
.
.
Advanced
tab, and
Hibernate
tab.
Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you. If the computer’s hard drive becomes corrupted, Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.

Power Options Properties

Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the
Options Properties
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Under
4
Define your power settings on the
Power Schemes Tab
Each standard power setting is called a scheme. If you want to select one of the standard Windows schemes installed on your computer, choose a scheme from the The settings for each scheme appear in the fields below the scheme name. Each scheme has different settings for starting standby mode or hibernate mode, turning off the monitor, and turning off the hard drive.
The
Power schemes
Always On
Home/Office Desk
• minimal power conservation.
Portable/Laptop
Presentation
• conservation).
Minimal Power Management
conservation.
Max Battery
batteries for extended periods of time.
If you want to change the default settings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the
,
monitor
out from the displayed list. Changing the time-out for a scheme field permanently changes the default settings for that scheme, unless you click scheme.
Turn off hard disks, System stand by
window. To access the
Start
button and click
Pick a category
or pick a Control Panel icon
, click
Performance and Maintenance
Power Options Properties
Control Panel
, click
Power Schemes
.
Power Options
tab,
window:
.
.
Advanced
Power schemes
tab, and
Hibernate
drop-down menu.
drop-down menu displays the following schemes:
(default) — If you want to use your computer with no power conservation.
— If you use your computer as a home or office computer and you require
— If your computer is a portable computer that you use for traveling.
— If you want your computer to run without interruption (using no power
— If you want your computer to run with minimal power
— If your computer is a portable computer and you run your computer from
, or
System hibernates
Save As
and enter a new name for the changed
field, and then select a time-
Power
tab.
Turn off
NOTICE: If you set the hard drive (hard disk) to time-out before the monitor does, your computer may
appear to be locked up. To recover, press any key on the keyboard or click the mouse. To avoid this problem, always set the monitor to time-out before the hard drive.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 25
Advanced Tab
The
Advanced
Place the power options icon in the Windows taskbar for quick access.
Set the computer to prompt you for your Windows password before the computer exits from standby mode or hibernate mode.
Program the power button to activate standby mode, activate hibernate mode, or turn off the computer.
To program these functions, click an option from the corresponding drop-down menu and click
OK
Hibernate Tab
The
Hibernate
you defined on the
Hibernate
For more information on power management options:
1
Click the
2
In the
3
In the
tab allows you to:
.
tab allows you to enable hibernate mode. If you want to use the hibernate settings
Power Schemes
tab.
Start
button and click
Help and Support
Performance and maintenance
tab, click the
Help and Support
window, click
Enable hibernate support
.
Performance and maintenance
window, click
Conserving power on your computer
check box on the
.
.

Understanding Intel® Viiv™ Technology (Optional)

Intel Viiv technology is a technology aimed at the digital home enthusiast that includes:
A BIOS with Quick Resume
Device drivers
This technology allows the user’s system to quickly return to an active state after non-use
Intel Viiv technology is an option for systems that are ordered with Microsoft Media Center Edition 2005 and dual core processors.

Using Intel® Viiv™ Quick Resume Technology (Optional)

When running in the Intel Viiv Quick Resume Technology (QRT) mode, your power button is used as a quick on/off feature. Pressing the power button once causes the display to go blank and the audio to mute. In this mode, the computer is still operating as indicated by the power button indicator and diagnostic lights 1, 2, and 4 being lit. Also, you may notice that the hard drive indicator may blink when the hard drive is being accessed by an external device.
To resume normal computer operation, briefly press the power button, press any key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press a button on the optional Microsoft Center Edition 2005 remote control.
26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
®
Windows® XP
®
Windows® XP Media

Enabling the QRT Feature in System Setup

The QRT drivers must be installed before this feature becomes active. These drivers are installed when this option is ordered. Also, Quick Resume is enabled in system setup when this feature is ordered.
1
Enter system setup (see page 100).
2
Press the arrow keys to highlight the access the menu.
3
Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the to access the menu.
4
Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight the On option and press <Enter> to enable the Quick Resume feature.
Power Management
Quick Resume
menu option and press <Enter> to
option and press <Enter>

Enabling the QRT feature in the Operating system

1
Click the
2
Under
3
Under
4
Click the
5
Ensure that the check boxes for Enable away mode and Options are checked.
6
Click the
7
From the
Nothing
8
From the
Nothing
Start
button and click
Pick a category
or pick a Control Panel icon
Away
Advanced
When I press the power button on my computer
.
When I press the sleep button on my computer
.
, click
tab.
tab.
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
, click
.
Power Options
.
.
drop-down menu, select
drop-down menu, select
Do
Do

Hyper-Threading

Hyper-Threading is an Intel® technology that can enhance overall computer performance by allowing one physical processor to function as two logical processors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously. It is recommended that you use the Microsoft (SP1) or later operating system because Windows XP is optimized to take advantage of Hyper-Threading technology. While many programs can benefit from Hyper-Threading, some programs have not been optimized for Hyper-Threading and may require an update from the software manufacturer. Contact the software manufacturer for updates and information about using Hyper-Threading with your software.
®
Windows® XP Service Pack 1
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 27
To determine if your computer is using Hyper-Threading technology:
1
Click the
2
Click
3
In the is enabled, the processor is listed twice.
You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. For more information on accessing system setup, see page 100.
Start
button, right-click
Hardware
Device Manager
and click
My Computer
Device Manager
window, click the plus (+) sign next to
, and then click
.
Properties
Processors
.
. If Hyper-Threading
28 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tips

Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer:
If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.
If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.
If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).
If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.

Battery Problems

CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the
battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
REPLACE THE BATTERY If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on
the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see page 92). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 111).

Drive Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE Click the Start button and
click My Computer. If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive, is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
Solving Problems 29
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.
NOTE: This system supports an optional USB floppy drive.
CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK See page 108.
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See page 51.
RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS See page 48.

CD and DVD drive problems

NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a
defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all
DVD drives.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL
• Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
• Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.
• Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.
CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 41.
Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive
CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the CD/DVD-RW.
TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC — See page 24 or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help for information on power management modes.
30 Solving Problems
+ 102 hidden pages