Dell 2400 User Manual

Page 1
Dell™ Dimension™ 2400 Series
service tag
CD or DVD headphone connector
CD or DVD volume control dial
CD or DVD drive activity light
CD or DVD eject button
second bay for optional drive
floppy-drive eject button*
power light
power button
USB 2.0 connectors (2)
power connector
voltage selection switch
keyboard connector
serial connector
video connector
line-out connector
microphone connector
USB 2.0 connectors (4)
PCI card slots (3)
hard-drive activity light
headphone connector
*On computers with an optional floppy drive.
mouse connector
diagnostic lights (4)
parallel connector
line-in connector
cover latch
network adapter connector
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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 Tell Me How help file. To access help files, see page 32.
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. © 2003 Dell Inc. All rightsreserved.
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, and Latitude are
trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows 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 MTC2
®
September 2003 P/N N2145 Rev. A00
Page 3
Contents
CAUTION: Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
SAFETY: General
SAFETY: When Using Your Computer
SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge . . . . . . 12
SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits
SAFETY: Battery Disposal
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Finding Information for Your Computer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Printer Cable
Connecting a Parallel Printer
Connecting a USB Printer
Transferring Information to a New Computer
Setting Up a Home and Office Network
Connecting to a Network Adapter
Network Setup Wizard
Connecting to the Internet
Setting Up Your Internet Connection
Copying CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
How to Copy a CD or DVD
Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Helpful Tips
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
. . . . . . . . . . . 20
Hyper-Threading
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Contents 3
Page 4
Booting to a USB Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Turning Off Your Computer
2 Solving Problems
Finding Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Finding Help Information
Battery Problems
Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Floppy drive problems
CD drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Problems writing to a CD-RW drive
DVD drive problems
Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Error Messages
General Problems
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
Other technical problems
General hardware problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
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4 Contents
IEEE 1394 Device Problems
Keyboard Problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Page 5
Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
PC Card Problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Printer Problems
Scanner Problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
No sound from speakers
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
No sound from headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Video and Monitor Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
If the screen is blank
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
If the screen is difficult to read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
3 Advanced Troubleshooting
Diagnostic Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Dell Diagnostics
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
Starting the Dell Diagnostics
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Drivers
Using Microsoft
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Identifying Drivers
Reinstalling Drivers
Creating a Restore Point
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
®
Windows® XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . 64
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
. . . . . . 65
Undoing the Last System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities . . . . . . . 66
Contents 5
Page 6
Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Before You Reinstall
Reinstalling Windows XP
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Reinstalling Drivers and Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
4 Removing and Installing Parts
Front and Back View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Front View
Back View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Removing the Computer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Looking Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Adding Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Adding a Floppy Drive
Adding a Second CD or DVD Drive
Adding Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Installing Memory
Removing Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Replacing the Computer Cover
5 Appendix
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Standard Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Viewing Settings
System Setup Program Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Boot Sequence
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
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6 Contents
Page 7
Clearing Forgotten Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)
Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals
Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals
Contacting Dell
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
. . . . . . . . . . . . 106
. . . . . 106
. . . . . . 107
Regulatory Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Limited Warranties and Return Policy
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Limited Warranty for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (U.S. Only)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
"Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . 131
Limited Warranty Terms for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (Canada Only)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
"Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (Canada Only) . . . . . . . . 134
Dell Software and Peripherals (Canada Only)
. . . . . . . . . 135
1-Year End-User Manufacturer Guarantee
(Latin America and the Caribbean Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
®
Intel
Warranty Statement for Pentium® and
Celeron® Processors Only (U.S. and Canada Only) . . . . . . . 138
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Contents 7
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8 Contents
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CAUTION: Safety Instructions
Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage.
SAFETY: General
Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instructions closely.
To help prevent electric shock, plug the computer and device power cables into properly grounded electrical outlets. These cables are equipped with 3-prong plugs to help ensure proper grounding. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from a cable. If you must use an extension cable, use a 3-wire cable with properly grounded plugs.
To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not use your computer during an electrical storm.
To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not connect or disconnect any cables or perform maintenance or reconfiguration of this product during an electrical storm.
If your computer includes a modem, the cable used with the modem should be manufactured with a minimum wire size of 26 American wire gauge (AWG) and an FCC-compliant RJ-11 modular plug.
Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.
To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting a device from the computer.
To avoid shorting out your computer when disconnecting a network cable, first unplug the cable from the network adapter on the back of your computer, and then from the network jack. When reconnecting a network cable to your computer, first plug the cable into the network jack, and then into the network adapter.
To help protect your computer from sudden, transient increases and decreases in electrical power, use a surge suppressor, line conditioner, or uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
Ensure that nothing rests on your computer’s cables and that the cables are not located where they can be stepped on or tripped over.
Do not push any objects into the openings of your computer. Doing so can cause fire or electric shock by shorting out interior components.
Keep your computer away from radiators and heat sources. Also, do not block cooling vents. Avoid placing loose papers underneath your computer; do not place your computer in a closed-in wall unit or on a bed, sofa, or rug.
CAUTION: Safety Instructions 9
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SAFETY: When Using Your Computer
As you use your computer, observe the following safe-handling guidelines.
CAUTION: Do not operate your computer with any cover(s) (including computer covers, bezels, filler brackets,
front-panel inserts, and so on) removed.
Your computer is equipped with one of the following:
A fixed-voltage power supply — Computers with a fixed-voltage power supply do not have a voltage selection
switch on the back panel and operate at only one voltage (see the regulatory label on the outside of the computer for its operating voltage).
An auto-sensing voltage circuit — Computers with an auto-sensing
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Before working inside the computer, unplug the computer to help prevent electric shock or system board damage.
voltage circuit do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and automatically detect the correct operating voltage.
A manual voltage selection switch— Computers with a voltage
selection switch on the back panel must be manually set to operate at the correct operating voltage. Set the switch to the position that most closely matches the voltage used in your location.
NOTICE: To help avoid damaging a computer with a manual voltage selection switch, set the switch for the voltage
that most closely matches the AC power available in your location. For Japan, the voltage selection switch must be set to the 115-V position even though the AC power available in Japan is 100 V. Also, ensure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to operate with the AC power available in your location.
Certain system board components continue to receive power any time the computer is connected to AC power.
10 CAUTION: Safety Instructions
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SAFETY: When Using Your Computer
Before you open the computer cover, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to service the computer yourself, except as explained in your online Dell™
documentation or in instructions otherwise provided to you by Dell. Always follow installation and service instructions closely.
NOTICE: To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before
removing a component from the system board or disconnecting a device from the computer.
1
Perform an orderly computer shutdown using the operating system menu.
2
Turn off your computer and any devices connected to the computer.
3
Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the chassis, such as the metal around the card-slot openings at the back of the computer, before touching anything inside your computer.
While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components.
4
Disconnect your computer and devices, including the monitor, from their electrical outlets. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
Doing so reduces the potential for personal injury or shock.
In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate:
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 disconnecting 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.
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 microprocessor chip by its edges, not by its pins.
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. Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.
CAUTION: Safety Instructions 11
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SAFETY: When Using Your Computer
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 microprocessor chip by its edges, not by its pins.
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. Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.
SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge
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Static electricity can harm delicate components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components, such as the microprocessor. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.
You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD):
Do not remove components from their antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the component in your computer. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, discharge static electricity from your body.
When transporting an electrostatic sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or packaging.
Handle all electrostatic sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads.
SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits
CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.
CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain.
For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in the Tell Me How help file when setting up and using your computer. To access help files, see page 32.
SAFETY: Battery Disposal
Your computer uses a lithium coin-cell battery. The lithium coin-cell battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it. However, should you need to replace it, see page 94.
Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.
12 CAUTION: Safety Instructions
Page 13
Finding Information for Your Computer
What are you looking for? Find It Here
• A diagnostic program for my computer
• Drivers for my computer
• My computer documentation
• My device documentation
• How to set up a printer
• How to troubleshoot and solve problems
• How to remove and install parts
• How to contact Dell
ResourceCD
Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer when shipped from Dell. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see page 63), run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 59), or access your documentation.
Readme files may be included on your CD to provide last-minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technical-reference material for experienced users or technicians.
Owner’s Manual
Finding Information for Your Computer 13
Page 14
What are you looking for? Find It Here
• How to set up my computer Setup Diagram
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• Tips on using Windows
• How to clean my computer
• How to use my mouse and keyboard
• Express Service Code and Service Tag
•Microsoft® Windows® License Label
• Latest drivers for my computer
• Answers to technical service and support questions
• Online discussions with other users and technical support
• Documentation for my computer
Tell Me How Help File
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Click User and system guides and click User’s guides. 3 Click Tell M e H o w.
Express Service Code and Product Key Label
These labels are located on your computer.
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
The Dell Support website provides several online tools, including:
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online courses
• Community Forum — 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, order status, warranty, and repair information
• Downloads — Drivers, patches, and software updates
• Reference — Computer documentation, product specifications, and white papers
14 Finding Information for Your Computer
Page 15
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 Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow
icon.
3 Click the topic that describes your problem. 4 Follow the instructions on the screen.
• How to reinstall my operating system Operating System CD
After you reinstall your operating system using the Operating System Reinstallation CD, use the ResourceCD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.
The product key for your operating system is located on your computer.
Finding Information for Your Computer 15
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16 Finding Information for Your Computer
Page 17
1
SECTION 1
Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Setting Up a Printer
Transferring Information to a New Computer
Setting Up a Home and Office Network
Connecting to the Internet
Copying CDs and DVDs
Hyper-Threading
Booting to a USB Device
Turning Off Your Computer
Page 18
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.
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Printer Cable
Your printer connects to your computer with either a USB cable or a parallel cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the computer box.
Connecting a Parallel Printer
1 Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.
2 Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28).
NOTICE: For best results, use a 3-m (10-ft) or shorter parallel cable.
18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Page 19
3 Attach the parallel printer cable to the parallel connector on the computer and tighten
the two screws. Attach the cable to the connector on the printer and snap the two clips into the two notches.
parallel connector on computer
connector on printer
screws (2)
parallel printer cable
notches (2)
4 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard
clips (2)
window appears, click Cancel.
5 Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your
printer.
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.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 19
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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
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Transferring Information to a New Computer
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer wizard to move data from the source computer to the new computer. You can move data such as:
•E-mails
Toolbar settings
Window sizes
Internet bookmarks
You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or serial connection, or you can store it on a removable medium, such as a writable CD or floppy disk.
USB printer cable
USB connector on printer
To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories System Tools, and then
click Files and Settings Tra nsf er Wiz a rd .
20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
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2 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.
3 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next.
4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the
Windows XP CD and click Next.
5 When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source
computer. Do not click Next at this time.
To copy data from the old computer:
1 On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System CD.
2 On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks.
3 Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings.
4 On the Files and Settings Tran s fe r Wi z ar d welcome screen, click Next.
5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next.
6 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.
7 On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer
and click Next.
After the information has been copied, the Completing the Collection Phase screen appears.
8 Click Finish.
To transfer data to the new computer:
1 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.
2 On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for
transferring your settings and files and click Next.
The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer.
When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished screen appears.
3 Click Finished and restart the new computer.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 21
Page 22
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: Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is
secure.
Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your
1
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computer.
NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall jack.
2 Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device, such as a
network wall jack.
network adapter connector on computer
Network Setup Wizard
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories Communications, and
then click Network Setup Wizard.
22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
network wall jack
network cable
Page 23
2 On the welcome screen, click Next.
3 Click Checklist for creating a network.
NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables
the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP.
Complete the checklist and required preparations.
4
5 Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.
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 phone line. Dial-up
connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections.
DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing phone
line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your phone 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 MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Microsoft
3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 23
®
Windows® desktop.
Page 24
If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP:
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2 Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer.
The New Connection Wizard appears.
3 Click Connect to the Internet.
4 In the next window, click the appropriate option:
If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose from a list of Internet service providers (ISPs).
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If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click Set up my connection manually.
If you have a CD, click Use the CD I got from an ISP.
5 Click Next.
If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.
6 Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and
then click Next.
7 Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 35. 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.
Copying CDs and DVDs
NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.
This section applies only to computers that have a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD+R, or DVD/CD-RW combo drive.
24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
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The following instructions show how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic RecordNow for other purposes, including creating CDs from audio files on your computer and creating MP3 CDs. For instructions, see the Sonic RecordNow documentation that came with your computer. Open Sonic RecordNow, click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window, and then click RecordNow Help or RecordNow Tutorial.
How to Copy a CD or DVD
NOTE: If you have a DVD/CD-RW combo drive and you experience recording problems, check
for available software patches at the Sonic support website at support.sonic.com.
NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic
RecordN ow.
1
Click the Start button, point to All ProgramsSonicRecordNow!RecordNow!.
2 Click either the audio tab or the data tab, depending on the kind of CD you are
planning to copy.
3 Click Exact Copy.
4 To co p y t he C D o r DV D:
If you have one CD or DVD drive, ensure that the settings are correct and click Copy. The computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies it to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.
When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the CD or DVD drive and click OK.
If you have two CD or DVD drives, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or DVD and click Copy. The computer copies the data on the 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 CD-Rs and CD-RWs
Your CD-RW drive can write to two different types of recording media—CD-Rs and CD-RWs. 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 without changing your method of recording (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 25
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Helpful Tips
Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Sonic RecordNow and open a RecordNow 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 RecordNow.
Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.
Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not
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copy a 650-MB file to a 650-MB blank CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1 or 2 MB of the blank CD 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 support website at support.sonic.com for additional information.
Hyper-Threading
NOTE: Hyper-Threading is supported only on computers that have 3.06-GHz (or higher)
microprocessors installed.
Hyper-Threading is an Intel® technology that can enhance overall computer performance by allowing one physical microprocessor to function as two logical microprocessors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously. It is recommended that you use the Microsoft Windows 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.
26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
®
XP operating system because Windows XP is optimized to take advantage of
®
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To determine if your computer is using Hyper-Threading technology:
1 Click the Start button, right-click My Computer, and then click Properties.
2 Click Hardware and click Device Manager.
3 In the Device Manager window, click the plus (+) sign next to the processor type. If
Hyper-Threading is enabled, the processor is listed twice.
You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through the system setup program. For more information on accessing the system setup program, see page 103. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the Knowledge Base on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
Booting to a USB Device
NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To ensure that your device is
bootable, check the device documentation.
To restart your computer to a USB device such as a floppy drive, memory key, or CD-RW drive:
1 Connect the USB device to a USB connector (see page 73).
2 Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28).
3 Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
If you wait too long and the Microsoft until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the Start menu and try again.
®
Windows® logo appears, continue to wait
NOTE: These steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the
computer boots according to the devices specified in the system setup program.
When the boot device list appears, highlight USB Flash Device and press <Enter>.
4
The computer reboots to the connected USB device.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 27
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Turning Off Your Computer
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft® Windows
operating system shutdown, as described in this section, rather than by pressing the power button.
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then
1
click Turn Off Computer.
2 In the Turn off computer window, click Tu r n o ff .
The computer turns off after the shutdown process finishes.
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®
28 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
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SECTION 2
Solving Problems
Finding Solutions
Finding Help Information
Battery Problems
Drive Problems
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
Error Messages
General Problems
2
IEEE 1394 Device Problems
Keyboard Problems
Mouse Problems
Network Problems
PC Card Problems
Power Problems
Printer Problems
Scanner Problems
Sound and Speaker Problems
Video and Monitor Problems
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Finding Solutions
Sometimes it’s difficult to figure out where to go for answers. Use this chart to help you quickly find the answers to your questions.
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See page 46.
Press a key or move the mouse. See page 46.
Get technical assistance from Dell. See page 107.
See page 37.
30 Solving Problems
Page 31
See page 52.
See ppage 50.
See page 48.
See page 35.
See page 43.
See page 42.
See page 33.
See page 45.
See page 49.
See page 37.
See page 38.
See page 38.
See page 35.
See page 35.
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Finding Help Information
TO ACCESS THE TELL ME HOW HELP FILE
TO ACCESS WINDOWS HELP
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TO LOCATE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR YOUR COMPUTER — See page 13.
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.
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Click User and system guides and click User’s guides. 3 Click Tel l Me Ho w.
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon. 3 Click the topic that describes your problem. 4 Follow the instructions shown on the screen.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
32 Solving Problems
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 94). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 107).
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Drive Problems
Floppy drive problems
ENSURE THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE Click the Start
button and click My Computer. If the floppy 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 disk to eliminate the possibility that the original floppy disk is defective.
• Insert a bootable floppy disk and reboot the computer.
ENSURE THAT THE DISK IS NOT FULL OR WRITE-PROTECTED
Ensure that the disk has available space and that it is not write-protected (locked). See the following figure.
back of floppy disk
write-protected
not write­protected
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You may accidentally misalign the
heads, which can render the drive inoperable.
CLEAN THE DRIVE Use a commercially available cleaning kit.
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CD drive problems
NOTE: High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a
defect in the drive or the CD.
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
• Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.
TEST THE DRIVE WITH ANOTHER CD — Insert another CD to eliminate
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the possibility that the original CD is defective.
CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 50.
ENSURE THAT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the CD 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.
CLEAN THE DISC — See the Tel l M e Ho w help file for instructions on cleaning your CDs. To access help files, see page 32.
it up.
Problems writing to a CD-RW drive
34 Solving Problems
CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS The CD-RW drive must receive a steady
stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before writing to the CD-RW.
TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD-RW
Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. To access help files, see page 32.
DISC For information on power conservation modes, see the Tel l
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DVD drive problems
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles
work in all DVD drives.
TEST THE DRIVE WITH ANOTHER DVD — Insert another DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original DVD is defective.
ENSURE THAT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the DVD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
CLEAN THE DISC — See the Te ll M e H o w help file for instructions on cleaning your DVDs. To access help files, see page 32.
CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS See page 66.
Hard drive problems
RUN CHECK DISK
1 Click the Start button and click My Computer. 2 Right-click the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and
then click Properties.
3 Click the Tools tab. 4 Under Error-checking, click Check Now. 5 Click Start.
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not operate while
it is connected to a digital telephone network.
CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION — 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.
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CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK Disconnect the telephone line from the
modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.
CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK
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 use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack.
USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE — If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
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RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Click the Start button, point to All Programs, and then click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)
VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS®—
TURN OFF CALL WAITING (CATCH- PHONE)— See your telephone
directory for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking connection properties.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 3 Click Phone and Modem Options. 4 Click the Modems tab. 5 Click the COM port for your modem. 6 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to
verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click Phone and Modem
Options.
3 Click your connection type to highlight it. 4 Click the Dialing Rules tab and click Edit. 5 Click the To Disable Call Waiting box to place a checkmark in it. 6 Select the disable code from the drop-down menu (for example, *70). 7 Click Apply and click OK.
36 Solving Problems
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ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET With the
Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet.
ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE SUBSCRIBED TO AN INTERNET SERVICE
PROVIDER Contact an Internet service provider to subscribe.
CONTACT YOUR INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER Contact your Internet
service provider for assistance.
Error Messages
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING
CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in
filenames.
A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Add or Remove Programs. 3 Select the program you want to remove. 4 Click the Change or Remove Program icon. 5 See the program documentation for installation instructions.
INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA The operating system is trying to boot to a
nonbootable floppy disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.
NON-SYSTEM DISK ERROR — A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy disk and restart the computer.
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NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. CLOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND
TRY AGAIN You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open
the program that you want to use. In some cases, you might have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.
OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND Contact Dell (see page 107).
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. Try
copying the file to a blank disk or using a larger-capacity disk.
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x
drive cannot read the disk. Insert a floppy disk into the drive and try again.
General Problems
The computer stops responding
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF If your computer locks up and you are unable
to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then press the power button again to turn on the computer. You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY The floppy
A program stops responding
38 Solving Problems
END THE PROGRAM
1 Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously. 2 Click Applications. 3 Click the program that is no longer responding. 4 Click End Task.
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A program crashes repeatedly
NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy
disk or CD.
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you solve the problem. Ensure that you properly installed and configured the program. If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system
RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD
Windows XP provides a Program Compatibility Wizard that configures a program so it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories, and then click
Program Compatibility Wizard.
2 In the welcome screen, click Next. 3 Follow the instructions on the screen.
A solid blue screen appears
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF If the computer does not respond to a
keystroke or a proper shutdown, press the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer. The chkdsk program automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Other software problems
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE
MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION
BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY If your computer has a CD-RW
drive or a zip drive installed, see the drive’s documentation for instructions.
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ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE NOT MADE AN ERROR WHILE ENTERING
DATA See the program documentation to ensure that the values or
characters you are entering are valid.
CHECK FOR VIRUSES — Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive, floppy disks, or CDs.
RESTART THE COMPUTER — Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut down your computer through the Start menu instead of by pressing the power button. Otherwise, you may lose data.
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CHECK FOR COMPATIBILITY
• Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on
• If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
ENSURE THAT YOU PROPERLY INSTALLED AND CONFIGURED THE
PROGRAM See the software documentation for information. If necessary,
uninstall and then reinstall the program.
Other technical problems
GO TO THE DELL SUPPORT WEBSITE Go to support.dell.com for help
with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions.The support website offers several different tools to help you, such as Dell Forum—a chat room where you can communicate with other Dell customers about their computers and gain access to technical support through e-mail. See "Dell Support Website" on page 14 for more information about the website. See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 106 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.
CALL DELL If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell Support website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 107). See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 106 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.
your computer and that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information.
40 Solving Problems
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General hardware problems
If your computer exhibits one or more of the following symptoms, a device conflict may exist:
Your computer locks up, particularly while using a specific device.
A recently added device does not work.
A sound card emits noise or demonstrates other problems.
Unintelligible characters print from the printer.
The mouse pointer does not move or "stutters" when it moves.
Messages appear stating that the computer is not operating at maximum performance.
Errors occur and programs crash for no apparent reason.
Nothing displays on the monitor.
REMOVE ANY RECENTLY ADDED HARDWARE TO SEE IF IT RESOLVES
THE CONFLICT If removing the hardware resolves the conflict, see the
hardware documentation for configuration and troubleshooting instructions. If the problem persists, contact the hardware manufacturer for technical assistance.
CHECK YOUR OPERATING SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION FOR ADDITIONAL
TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION
CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS See page 66.
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IEEE 1394 Device Problems
NOTE: Check Windows Explorer to see if your device is listed as a drive.
CHECK THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE Ensure that the IEEE 1394 device is
properly inserted into the connector.
ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY W
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IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED IEEE 1394
DEVICE Contact Dell (see page 107).
IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED
BY DELL Contact the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer.
Keyboard Problems
RESTART THE COMPUTER
• If the mouse is functioning, shut down the computer (see page 28) through
• If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or the mouse, press the power
INDOWS
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware.
If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.
the Start menu. After the computer shuts down, press the power button to restart the computer.
button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer.
®
42 Solving Problems
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CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE
• Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.
• Shut down the computer (see page 28), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer.
• Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins.
• Remove keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.
TEST THE KEYBOARD — Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, and try using the keyboard. If the new keyboard works, the original keyboard is faulty.
CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS See page 66.
Mouse Problems
RESTART THE COMPUTER
1 Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the Start menu. 2 Ty p e u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Tu rn Off , and
then press <Enter>.
3 After the computer turns off, press the power button to restart the computer.
IF YOU CONNECTED THE MOUSE BEFORE TURNING ON THE
COMPUTER, RECONNECT THE MOUSE CABLE
1 Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the Start menu. 2 Ty p e u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Tu rn Off , and
then press <Enter>.
3 After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the
setup diagram for your computer.
4 Start the computer.
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IF YOU CONNECTED THE MOUSE AFTER TURNING ON THE COMPUTER,
REMOVE THE POWER CABLE, AND THEN RECONNECT THE MOUSE CABLE If the mouse is connected after the power is turned on, the mouse
appears to be nonfunctional. To make the mouse function properly:
Pressing the power button does not clear the computer’s settings and does not restore mouse functionality.
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CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE
• Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed
• Ensure that the cable is firmly connected to the computer.
TEST THE MOUSE — Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, and try using the mouse. If the new mouse works, the original mouse was faulty.
CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS
1 While your computer is on, remove the power cable from the back of the
computer.
2 Connect the mouse to the computer. 3 Reconnect the power cable. 4 Turn on your computer.
cables. Straighten bent pins.
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other
Hardware.
2 Click Mouse. 3 Try adjusting the settings.
44 Solving Problems
REINSTALL THE MOUSE DRIVER See page 63.
CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS See page 66.
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Network Problems
CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR Ensure that the network
cable is connected. See page 22.
CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE BACK OF THE COMPUTER
No light indicates that no network communication exists. Replace the network cable.
link activity light network integrity light
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY TO LOG ON TO THE NETWORK
AGAIN
CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS Contact your network administrator
or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.
CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS See page 66.
PC Card Problems
NOTE: Your computer is designed for 16-bit PCMCIA cards only. Do not use a 32-bit CardBus.
CHECK THE PC CARD Ensure that the PC Card is properly inserted into
the connector.
ENSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS®— Double­click the Unplug or Eject Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.
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IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED PC CARD
Contact Dell (see page 107).
IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A PC CARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL Contact the PC card manufacturer.
Power Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
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safety instructions on page 9.
ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES Your computer may be in standby or
hibernate mode. For information on power conservation modes, see the Tell Me How help file, or search for the keyword standby or hibernate in Windows® Help.
To access help files, see page 32.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS GREEN AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT
RESPONDING See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 56.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING GREEN The computer is in standby
mode. Press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse to resume normal operation.
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IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF The computer is either turned off or is not
receiving power.
• Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.
• If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on.
• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
• Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on.
• Ensure that the main power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 79).
• Ensure that the front panel cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 79).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 107).
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER — The computer is receiving electrical power, but an internal power problem might exist.
• Ensure that the microprocessor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 79).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 107).
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER — A device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.
• Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see page 92).
• Remove and then reinstall any cards (see page 80).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 107).
ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE Electrical appliances on the same circuit or operating near the computer can cause interference. Other causes of interference are:
•Power extension cables
• Keyboard and mouse extension cables
• Too many devices on a power strip
• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet
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Printer Problems
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, call the printer’s manufacturer. See the
printer documentation for the correct phone number.
CHECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION — See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.
ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON — See the printer documentation for power button information.
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VERIFY 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
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS®—
REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER See the printer documentation for
instructions.
computer (see page 18).
1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 4 Click View installed printers or fax printers.
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.
5 Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab. For a parallel printer, ensure
that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). For a USB printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB.
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Scanner Problems
NOTE: Dell does not cover the scanner’s warranty. If you need technical assistance for your
scanner, call the scanner’s manufacturer. See the scanner documentation for the correct phone number.
CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.
UNLOCK THE SCANNER — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
• If your scanner has a power cable, ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to a working electrical outlet and that the scanner is turned on.
• Ensure that the scanner cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the scanner.
VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT®
INDOWS
W
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 3 Click Scanners and Cameras.
If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.
REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER — See the scanner documentation for instructions.
®
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Sound and Speaker Problems
No sound from speakers
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.
CHECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS — Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If you purchased a sound card, ensure that the speakers are connected to the card.
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ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED
ON See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have
volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.
DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR
Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
ENABLE DIGITAL MODE — Your speakers do not work if the CD drive is operating in analog mode. To enable digital mode:
1 Click the Start button, click Control Pan el, and then click Sounds, Speech,
and Audio Devices.
2 Click Sounds and Audio Devices. 3 Click the Hardware tab. 4 Double-click the name of your CD drive. 5 Click the Properties tab. 6 Check the Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device box.
50 Solving Problems
ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent
lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.
Page 51
RUN THE SPEAKER DIAGNOSTICS — Some speaker systems have self­diagnostics. See the speaker documentation for diagnostics instructions.
REINSTALL THE AUDIO (SOUND) DRIVER See page 63.
CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS See page 66.
No sound from headphones
CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION Ensure that the
headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see page 72).
DISABLE DIGITAL MODE — Your headphones do not work if the CD drive is operating in digital mode. To disable digital mode:
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Sounds, Speech,
and Audio Devices.
2 Click Sounds and Audio Devices. 3 Click the Hardware tab. 4 Double-click the name of your CD drive. 5 Click the Properties tab. 6 Uncheck the Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device box.
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.
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Video and Monitor Problems
If the screen is blank
NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.
CHECK THE MONITOR POWER LIGHT If the power light is off, firmly
press the button to ensure that the monitor is turned on. If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power. If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.
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CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION — Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing pins.) Ensure that the video cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
SWAP THE POWER CABLES — Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective.
TEST THE VIDEO EXTENSION CABLE (IF USED)—If you are using a video extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is defective.
TEST ANOTHER MONITOR — If another monitor is available, connect it to the computer.
CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS See page 56.
If the screen is difficult to read
52 Solving Problems
CHECK THE MONITOR SETTINGS See the monitor documentation for
instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
Page 53
MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE MONITOR — If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the monitor.
MOVE THE MONITOR AWAY FROM EXTERNAL POWER SOURCES
Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky." Turn off nearby devices to check for interference.
ROTATE THE MONITOR TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS® DISPLAY SETTINGS
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Appearance and Themes. 3 Click Display and click the Settings tab. 4 Try different settings for Screen resolution and Color quality.
RESTORE THE RECOMMENDED SETTINGS Restore the original
resolution and refresh rate settings. See the Tel l M e H o w help file for instructions. To access help files, see page 32.
Solving Problems 53
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54 Solving Problems
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3
SECTION 3
Advanced Troubleshooting
Diagnostic Lights
Dell Diagnostics
Drivers
Using Microsoft
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
Reinstalling Microsoft
®
Windows® XP System Restore
®
Windows® XP
Page 56
Diagnostic Lights
To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "A," "B," "C," and "D" on the back panel (see page 74). The lights can be yellow or green. When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. After the computer starts, all four lights display solid green. If the computer malfunctions, the color and sequence of the lights identify the problem.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
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ABCD
The computer is in a normal off condition or a possible pre-BIOS failure has occurred.
Verify that the computer is plugged into a working electrical outlet and that you have pressed the power button.
ABCD
= yellow
= green
= off
Memory modules are detected, but a memory failure has occurred.
• If you have one memory module installed, reinstall it (see page 92) and restart the computer.
• If you have two or more memory modules installed, remove the modules, reinstall one module (see page 92), and then restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, reinstall an additional module. Continue until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.
• If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see page 92).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 107).
56 Advanced Troubleshooting
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Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
A possible expansion card failure has occurred.
1 Determine if a conflict exists by
removing a card (not the video card) and then restarting the
ABCD
computer (see page 80).
2 If the problem persists, reinstall
the card that you removed, remove a different card, and then restart the computer.
ABCD
3 Repeat this process for each card.
If the computer starts normally, troubleshoot the last card removed from the computer for resource conflicts (see "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 66).
4 If the problem persists, contact
Dell (see page 107).
A possible floppy or hard drive failure has occurred.
Reseat all power and data cables and restart the computer.
ABCD
A possible USB failure has occurred. Reinstall all USB devices, check cable
connections, and then restart the computer.
ABCD
= yellow
= green
= off
Advanced Troubleshooting 57
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Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
ABCD
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ABCD
ABCD
No memory modules are detected. • Reinstall all memory modules (see
page 92) and restart the computer.
• To eliminate the possibility of a faulty memory connector, remove all memory modules, reinstall one memory module (if the computer supports a single module) (see page 92), and then restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, move the memory module to a different connector and restart the computer. Continue until you have identified a faulty connector or reinstalled all modules without error.
Memory modules are detected, but a memory configuration or compatibility error exists.
Another failure has occurred. • Ensure that the cables are properly
The computer is in a normal operating condition after POST.
• Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements (see page 92) exist.
• Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your computer (see page 99).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 107).
connected to the system board (see page 79) from the hard drive, CD drive, and DVD drive.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 107).
None.
ABCD
= yellow
= green
= off
58 Advanced Troubleshooting
Page 59
Dell Diagnostics
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" (see page 29) and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance. Running the Dell Diagnostics may help you resolve the problem without contacting Dell. If you do contact Dell, the test results can provide important information for Dell's service and support personnel.
The Dell Diagnostics allows you to:
Perform tests on one or all devices.
Select tests based on a symptom of the problem you are having.
Choose how many times a test is run.
Suspend testing if an error is detected.
Access help information that describes the tests and devices.
Receive status messages that tell you whether tests completed successfully.
Receive error messages if problems are detected.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics
NOTICE: Use the Dell Diagnostics to test your Dell™ computer only. Using this program with
other computers can result in error messages.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive (see page 59) or from the Dell Dimension ResourceCD (see page 59).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
1 Shut down (see page 28) and restart the computer.
2 When the DELL™ logo appears, press<F12> immediately.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the
Dell Diagnostics from your ResourceCD (see page 59).
If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the Start menu and try again.
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3 When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press
<Enter>.
4 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see
page 59).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the ResourceCD
1 Insert the ResourceCD.
2 Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28) and restart the
computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
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If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the Start menu and try again.
NOTE: This feature changes the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the
computer boots according to the devices specified in the system setup program.
When the boot device list appears, highlight IDE CD-ROM Device and press
3
<Enter>.
4 Select the IDE CD-ROM Device option from the CD boot menu.
5 Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears.
6 Ty p e 1 to start the ResourceCD menu.
7 Ty p e 2 to start the Dell Diagnostics.
8 Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions
are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer.
9 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see
page 59).
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
1 After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button
for the option you want.
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Option Function
Express Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically
takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly.
Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices. This test
typically takes an hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically.
Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you
want to run.
Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and
allows you to select a test based on the symptom of the problem you are having.
2 If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a
description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.
If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see page 107).
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 number.
If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable
3
tab described in the following table for more information.
Tab Fu nc ti o n
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.
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4 When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the
ResourceCD, remove the CD.
5 Close the test screen to return to the Main Menu screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics
and restart the computer, close the Main Menu screen.
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.
Tab F un ct io n
Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected
device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from the system setup program, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names of all the components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.
Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test
settings.
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
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.
62 Advanced Troubleshooting
Dell Dimension ResourceCD
may contain drivers for operating systems that are not
Page 63
Identifying Drivers
If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.
5 Click Device Manager.
6 Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a
[!]) on the device icon.
If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver (see page 63).
Reinstalling Drivers
NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your
provide approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.
Dell Dimension ResourceCD
Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback
If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.
5 Click Device Manager.
6 Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties.
7 Click the Drivers tab.
8 Click Roll Back Driver.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see page 64) to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.
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Using the ResourceCD
If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see page 64) does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the ResourceCD.
1 With the Windows desktop displayed, insert the ResourceCD.
If this is your first time to use the ResourceCD, go to step 2. If not, go to step 5.
2 When the ResourceCD installation program starts, follow the prompts on the screen.
3 When the InstallShield Wizard Complete window appears, remove the ResourceCD
and click Finish to restart the computer.
4 When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the ResourceCD.
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5 At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next.
NOTE: The ResourceCD displays drivers only for hardware that came installed in your
computer. If you installed additional hardware, the drivers for the new hardware might not be displayed by the ResourceCD. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the ResourceCD program. For drivers information, see the documentation that came with the device.
A message stating that the ResourceCD is detecting hardware in your computer appears.
The drivers that are used by your computer are automatically displayed in the My Drivers—The ResourceCD has identified these components in your system window.
6 Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on the screen.
If a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is not required by your operating system.
Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore
The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access help, see page 32.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data
files or recover them.
64 Advanced Troubleshooting
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Creating a Restore Point
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Click System Restore.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 63) 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 Start button, point to All ProgramsAccessoriesSystem Tools, and then
1
click System Restore.
2 Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected and click Next.
3 Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
The Select a Restore Point screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.
4 Select a restore point and click Next.
If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected. If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.
5 Click Next.
The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the computer restarts.
6 After the computer restarts, click OK.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can undo the restoration.
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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 Start button, point to All Programs Accessories System Tools, and then
1
click System Restore.
2 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
3 Click Next.
The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts.
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4 After the computer restarts, click OK.
Enabling System Restore
If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Pan el.
2 Click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 Click the System Restore tab.
5 Ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
Windows XP IRQ conflicts occur if a device either is not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured.
To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows XP:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Performance and Maintenance and click System.
3 Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
66 Advanced Troubleshooting
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4 In the Device Manager list, check for conflicts with the other devices.
Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point ( or a red
5 Double-click any conflict to display the Properties window.
If an IRQ conflict exists, the Device status area in the Properties window reports the cards or devices that share the device's IRQ.
6 Resolve conflicts by reconfiguring the devices or removing the devices from the Device
Manager.
To use the Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter:
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Ty p e hardware troubleshooter in the Search field and click the arrow to start the
search.
3 Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.
4 In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my
computer, and click Next.
X if the device has been disabled.
!) beside the conflicting device
Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP
Before You Reinstall
If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback (see page 63). If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see page 64) to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver.
Reinstalling Windows XP
To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which they are listed.
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.
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NOTICE: The
can overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless instructed to do so by a Dell technical support representative.
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.
Booting From the Operating System CD
1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2 Insert the Operating System CD. If any program starts automatically, exit the program
before proceeding.
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3 Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28) and restart the
computer.
4 Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again.
5 Press the arrow keys to select CD-ROM, and then press <Enter>.
6 When the Press any key to boot from CD message appears, press any key.
Windows XP Setup
1 When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press <Enter> to select To set up
Windows now.
Operating System
CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options
2 Read the information on the Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement screen, and
press <F8> to accept the license agreement.
3 If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to recover your
current Windows XP data, type from the drive.
4 If you want to install a new copy of Windows XP, press <Esc> to select that option.
5 Press <Enter> to select the highlighted partition (recommended), and then follow
the instructions on the screen.
NOTE: The time required to complete the setup depends on the size of the hard drive and the
speed of your computer.
The Windows XP Setup screen appears, and the operating system begins to copy files and install the devices. The computer automatically restarts multiple times.
68 Advanced Troubleshooting
r to select the repair option, and then remove the CD
Page 69
NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to
boot from the CD.
When the Regional and Language Options screen appears, select the settings for your
6
location, and then click Next.
7 Enter your name and organization (optional) in the Personalize Your Software screen
and click Next.
8 If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition, at the What's your computer's name
window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the name provided) and click Next.
If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional, at the Computer Name and Administrator Password window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the one provided) and a password, and then click Next.
9 If the Modem Dialing Information screen appears, enter the requested information
and click Next.
10 Enter the date, time, and time zone in the Date and Time Settings window and click
Next.
11 If the Networking Settings screen appears, click Ty p i c a l and click Next.
12 If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional and you are prompted to provide
further information regarding your network configuration, enter your selections. If you are unsure of your settings, accept the default selections.
Windows XP installs the operating system components and configures the computer. The computer automatically restarts.
NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to
boot from the CD.
When the Welcome to Microsoft screen appears, click Next.
13
14 When the How will this computer connect to the Internet? message
appears, click Skip.
15 When the Ready to register with Microsoft? screen appears, select No, not at this
time and click Next.
16 When the Who will use this computer? screen appears, you can enter up to five users.
Click Next.
17 Click Finish to complete the setup, and remove the CD from the drive.
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Reinstalling Drivers and Software
1 Reinstall the appropriate drivers (see page 63).
2 Reinstall your virus protection software. See the documentation that came with the
software for instructions.
3 Reinstall your other software programs. See the documentation that came with the
software for instructions.
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70 Advanced Troubleshooting
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4
SECTION 4
Removing and Installing Parts
Front and Back View of the Computer
Removing the Computer Cover
Looking Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Adding Cards
Adding a Floppy Drive
Adding a Second CD or DVD Drive
Adding Memory
Replacing the Battery
Replacing the Computer Cover
Page 72
Front and Back View of the Computer
Front View
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12
11
10
9*
8
7
6 5
*On computers with an optional floppy drive.
1
2
3*
4
72 Removing and Installing Parts
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1 CD or DVD drive
activity light
2 CD or DVD eject button Press to eject your CD from the CD or DVD drive.
3 floppy-drive eject button Press to eject a disk from the floppy drive.
4 hard-drive activity light The hard-drive light is on when the computer reads data from or writes data to the
5 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most speakers for
6 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
7 power button Press to turn on the computer.
8 power light The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states.
9 floppy-drive activity
light
10 CD or DVD volume
control dial
11 CD or DVD headphone
connector
12 service tag The tag is used to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support
The drive activity light is on when the computer reads data from the CD or DVD drive.
(On computers with an optional floppy drive.)
hard drive. The light might also be on when a device such as your CD player is operating.
listening to all sounds in your computer, including your CD player and system sounds such as beeps.
joysticks or cameras.
It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown.
For more information, see page 46.
The floppy-drive light is on when the computer reads data from or writes data to the floppy drive. Wait until this light turns off before you remove the floppy disk from the drive.
(On computers with an optional floppy drive.)
Move the dial to adjust the volume of your CD or DVD disc.
Use the headphone connector to attach headphones to the CD or DVD drive. Your headphones won’t work if the drive is operating in digital mode. To disable digital mode, see "No sound from headphones" on page 51.
website or call technical support.
Removing and Installing Parts 73
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Back View
15
14
13
12 11 10
1 2
3
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1 mouse connector Plug a standard mouse into the green mouse connector. Turn off the computer and any
attached devices before you connect a mouse to the computer. If you have a USB mouse, plug it into a USB connector.
2 diagnostic lights (4) Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem based on the diagnostic
code. For more information, see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 59.
3 parallel connector Connect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel connector. If you have a USB
printer, plug it into a USB connector.
4 line-in connector Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a cassette
player, CD player, or VCR.
(On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.)
5 cover latch Releases the cover from the computer.
9
8
7
*May not be present on all computers.
4
5* 6
74 Removing and Installing Parts
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6 network adapter
connector
7 card slots (3) Access connectors for any installed PCI cards.
8 USB 2.0 connectors (4) Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
9 microphone connector Use the pink microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone for
10 line-out connector Use the green line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with
11 video connector Plug the cable from your monitor into the blue connector.
12 serial connector Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port.
13 keyboard connector If you have a standard keyboard, plug it into the purple keyboard connector. If you have
14 voltage selection switch
(may not be available on all computers)
15 power connector Insert the power cable.
To attach your computer to a network or modem, connect one end of a network cable to either a network jack or your network device. Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back panel of your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached.
On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card.
It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your network. If you must use Category 3 wiring, force the network speed to 10 Mbps to ensure reliable operation.
network jack modem jack
printers and keyboards.
It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras.
voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
(On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.)
integrated amplifiers.
(On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.)
a USB keyboard, plug it into a USB connector.
See the safety instructions on page 9 for more information.
Removing and Installing Parts 75
Page 76
Removing the Computer Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28).
1
2 Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and
attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then
unplug it from the network wall jack.
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3 Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and
then press the power button to ground the system board.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from
the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up.
5
6 If your computer cover has a cover latch, slide and hold the cover latch.
76 Removing and Installing Parts
Page 77
7 Grip the indents on the computer cover, and slide the computer cover toward the back
of the computer.
computer cover
cover latch
back of computer
8 Place the computer cover on a level surface.
Removing and Installing Parts 77
Page 78
Looking Inside Your Computer
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from
the electrical outlet before opening the computer cover.
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CD or DVD drive
floppy drive*
hard drive
78 Removing and Installing Parts
power supply
system board
*May not be present on all computers.
Page 79
System Board Components
main power connector (J21)
power indicator (LED1)
memory module connectors (DDR1, DDR2)
fan connector (J30)
microprocessor connector (U16)
12-V power connector (J10)
modem telephony connector (J25)
CD audio connector (J8)
CD drive connector (J20)
hard drive connector (J23)
floppy drive connector (J18)
control panel connector (J28)
battery socket (BT1)
CMOS jumper (JP2)
front-panel I/O connector (J27)
password jumper (JP1)
front-panel audio connector (J29)
PCI card slots (3) (PCI1, PCI2, PCI3)
back of computer
Removing and Installing Parts 79
Page 80
Adding Cards
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28).
1
2 Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and
attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then
unplug it from the network wall jack.
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3 Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and
then press the power button to ground the system board.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from
the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
Remove the computer cover (see page 76).
5
6 Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of
the computer.
7 Unscrew and remove the filler bracket for the card slot you want to use.
securing screw
filler bracket
80 Removing and Installing Parts
Page 81
CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they
are connected to a network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.
Align the cutout on the bottom of the card with the crossbar in the system board
8
connector. Gently rock the card into the connector until it is fully seated.
card
card cutout
card connector on system board
crossbar
Ensure that the card is fully seated and that its bracket is within the card slot.
not fully seated card
fully seated card
bracket within slot
bracket caught outside of slot
Removing and Installing Parts 81
Page 82
9 Secure the filler bracket onto the end of the card with the screw you removed in step 7.
10 Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
See the documentation for the card for information about the card’s cable connections.
NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can
cause damage to the equipment.
Replace the computer cover (see page 96).
11
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then
plug it into the computer.
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12 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
13 Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
Adding a Floppy Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28).
1
2 Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and
attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
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 telecommunication lines from the computer.
3
4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and
then press the power button to ground the system board.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from
the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
Remove the computer cover (see page 76).
5
6 Release and remove the front panel:
a Push the release lever to release the top tab.
b Reach inside the computer and push the bottom tab towards you to release it (the
middle tab releases automatically).
82 Removing and Installing Parts
Page 83
c Rotate the front panel to separate it from the side hinges.
side hinges (3)
front panel
top tab
release lever
middle tab
bottom tab
Removing and Installing Parts 83
Page 84
7 Press in the two insert tabs, and then push out the front-panel insert.
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8 Connect the floppy-drive power cable to the back of the drive.
CAUTION: Match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive (pin 1 is
marked as "1").
9 Connect the data cable to the back of the drive and to the floppy drive connector on
the system board (see page 79).
tabs (2)
insert
10 Position the top of the floppy drive bracket so that it is completely flush with the
bottom of the upper drive bay, and then slide the floppy drive bracket forward into place.
NOTE: The top of the floppy drive bracket has two slots that fit into two clips on the bottom of
the upper drive bay. When the floppy drive bracket is properly mounted, it remains in place without support.
84 Removing and Installing Parts
Page 85
top bracket screw
drive bracket
floppy drive
11 Secure the floppy drive bracket with the top bracket screw that came with your drive.
12 Reattach the front panel to the side hinges, and then rotate it until it snaps onto the
front of the computer.
Removing and Installing Parts 85
Page 86
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side hinges (3)
front panel
13 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the
fan and cooling vents.
14 Replace the computer cover (see page 96).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then
plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
15
16 After you turn on your computer, press <F2> when you are prompted to enter setup
mode.
17 Highlight Drive Configuration and press <Enter>.
18 Use the left and right arrows to change Diskette Drive A from Not Installed to 3.5
inch, 1.44 MB.
19 Press <Enter>.
86 Removing and Installing Parts
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20 Highlight Integrated Devices (LegacySelect Options) and press <Enter>.
21 Ensure that the Diskette Interface entry is set to Auto. If necessary, use the left and
right arrows to set it to Auto.
22 Press <Enter>.
23 Press <Esc>.
24 Press <Enter> to Save changes and Exit.
The computer restarts.
25 See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any
software required for drive operation.
Adding a Second CD or DVD Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28).
1
NOTE: Drives sold by Dell come with their own operating software and documentation. After
you install a drive, see the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing and using the drive software.
Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and
2
attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
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 telecommunication lines from the computer.
3
4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and
then press the power button to ground the system board.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from
the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
Remove the computer cover (see page 76).
5
Removing and Installing Parts 87
Page 88
6 Release and remove the front panel:
a Push the release lever to release the top tab.
b Reach inside the computer and push the bottom tab towards you to release it (the
middle tab releases automatically).
c Rotate the front panel to separate it from the side hinges.
side hinges (3)
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front panel
top tab
release lever
middle tab
bottom tab
88 Removing and Installing Parts
Page 89
7 Pull the two front-panel tabs towards you, and then push out the front-panel insert.
insert
tabs (2)
8 Ensure that the jumper setting on the new drive is set for "cable select" (see the
documentation that came with the drive for information).
9 Remove two extra alignment screws, shown in the illustration on page 90, from the
front of the computer and insert them into the drive.
drive
alignment screws (2)
NOTE: Some computers come with only two extra alignment screws; others come with four. You
only need two alignment screws for this procedure.
Removing and Installing Parts 89
Page 90
10 Gently slide the drive into place.
securing
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11 Once the drive is in place, apply pressure to ensure that the drive is fully seated.
12 Use the securing screw that came with the drive to attach the drive to the computer.
screw
CAUTION: Match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive (pin 1 is
marked as "1").
drive
extra alignment screws (2 or 4)
alignment screws (2)
Connect the power cable to the system board.
13
14 Locate the data cable from the CD or DVD drive in the upper drive bay and connect
its middle data connector to the new drive.
15 Check all cable connections, and then fold the cables out of the way to provide airflow
for the fan and cooling vents.
90 Removing and Installing Parts
Page 91
16 Reattach the front panel to the side hinges, and then rotate it until it snaps onto the
front of the computer.
side hinges (3)
front panel
17 Replace the computer cover (see page 96).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then
plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
18
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
Removing and Installing Parts 91
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Adding Memory
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 99.
Installing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28).
1
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2 Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and
attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then
unplug it from the network wall jack.
3 Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and
then press the power button to ground the system board.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from
the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
Remove the computer cover (see page 76).
5
6 Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
memory connector closest to microprocessor
securing clips (2)
92 Removing and Installing Parts
connector
Page 93
7 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.
notch
memory module
cutouts (2)
crossbar
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the
connector while you apply equal force to each end of the module.
Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
8
If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the module.
9 Replace the computer cover (see page 96).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then
plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
10
11 Right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties.
12 Click the General tab.
13 To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM)
listed.
Removing and Installing Parts 93
Page 94
Removing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.
Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 28).
1
2 Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and
attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then
unplug it from the network wall jack.
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3 Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and
then press the power button to ground the system board.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from
the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
Remove the computer cover (see page 76).
5
6 Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
7 Grasp the module and pull up.
If the module is difficult to remove, gently ease the module back and forth to remove it from the connector.
Replacing the Battery
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions on page 9.
A coin-cell battery maintains computer configuration, date, and time information. The battery can last several years.
If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, replace the battery.
94 Removing and Installing Parts
Page 95
CAUTION: A new battery can explode if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the
3-V CR2032 battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Record all the screens in the system setup program (see page 103) so that you can
1
restore the correct settings when your perform step 7.
2 Remove the computer cover (see page 76).
3 Locate the battery socket (see page 79).
4 Remove the battery by carefully prying it out of its socket with your fingers or with a
blunt, nonconducting object such as a plastic screwdriver.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the system board while you pry the battery loose, be sure to insert
the plastic screwdriver between the battery and the socket (not the system board).
battery
battery socket
Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up and snap the
5
battery into place.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then
plug it into the computer.
6
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
7 Access the system setup program (see page 103) and restore the settings you recorded
in step 1.
8 Properly dispose of the old battery (see page 12).
Removing and Installing Parts 95
Page 96
Replacing the Computer Cover
1 Ensure that all cables are connected, and fold cables out of the way.
2 Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer.
3 Place the cover on the computer.
4 Slide the cover towards the front of the computer until it fits completely into place.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then
plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
5
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96 Removing and Installing Parts
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5
SECTION 5
Appendix
Specifications
Standard Settings
Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)
Contacting Dell
Regulatory Notices
Limited Warranties and Return Policy
Page 98
Specifications
Microprocessor
Microprocessor type Intel® Pentium® 4 or Celeron
L1 cache 8 KB first-level (Pentium 4 and Celeron).
L2 cache 256- or 512-KB (displayed in the system setup
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System Information
System chip set Intel 845GV
DMA channels eight
Interrupt levels 24 APIC mode
System BIOS chip 4 Mb (512 KB)
System clock 400- or 533-MHz data rate
Expansion Bus
Bus types PCI
Bus speed PCI: 33 MHz
PCI connectors three
PCI connector size 120 pins
PCI connector data width (maximum)
®
program) pipelined-burst, eight-way set associative, write-back SRAM (Pentium 4);
128-KB SRAM that resides in the processor’s core. The L2 cache runs at the processor’s internal clock speed (Celeron).
32 bits
98 Appendix
Page 99
Memory
Architecture DDR SDRAM
Memory connectors two
Memory capacities 128-, 256-, or 512-MB
Minimum memory 128 MB shared DDR SDRAM
NOTE: Between 32 and 64 MB of system memory may be allocated to support graphics, depending on system memory size and other factors.
Maximum memory 1 GB
Memory type PC2100 (266-MHz) or PC2700 (333-MHz) DDR
SDRAM (non-ECC)
Drives
Externally accessible two 5.25-inch bays
one 3.5-inch bay
Internally accessible one bay for 1-inch–high IDE hard drive
Ports and Connectors
Externally accessible:
Serial 9-pin connector; 16550C-compatible
Parallel 25-hole connector (bidirectional)
Video 15-hole connector
Keyboard 6-pin mini-DIN connector
Mouse 6-pin mini-DIN connector
USB two front-panel and four back-panel USB
2.0–compliant connectors
Network RJ-45 connector
Audio three back miniature connectors for line-in, line-out,
and microphone
Headphone one front miniature connector for line-out
Appendix 99
Page 100
Ports and Connectors
Internally accessible:
Primary IDE channel 40-pin connector on PCI local bus
Secondary IDE channel 40-pin connector on PCI local bus
Floppy drive (optional) 34-pin connector
Video
Video controller integrated Intel 3D Extreme Graphics
Audio
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Audio controller integrated audio
Network
Network controller Integrated 10/100 Ethernet
Controls and Lights
Power control push button
Front-panel power light solid green for power-on state; blinking green for
Hard-drive access light green
(continued)
standby state; amber (see page 46)
100 Appendix
Power
DC power supply:
Wattage 200 W or 250 W
Heat dissipation 682 or 853 BTU (fully-loaded computer without
monitor)
Voltage (see page 10 for
100 to 120 V at 60 Hz; 200 to 240 V at 50 Hz
important voltage setting information)
Backup battery 3-V CR2032 coin cell
Physical
Height x Width x Depth 36.8 x 18.4 x 42.6 cm
(14.5 x 7.25 x 16.75 inches)
Weight 10.4 kg (23 lb)
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