HINT: A HINT indicates important information that helps you make better
use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE ind icates either potential damage to hardware or loss of
data and tells you how to avoid the problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete listing of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Glossary in
the Tell Me How help file (see the Start Here sheet for instructions on how
to open the help file).
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written pe rmission of Dell Computer
Corporation is strictly forbidden.
Dell
, the
Trademarks used in this text:
TravelLite
Pentium
and
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 Computer Corporatio n discla im s any
proprietary interest in trad em arks and trade names other than its own.
August 2000P/N 77JUCRev. A00
,
Inspiron
, and
are registered trademarks and
Windows
and are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
A program crashes
A program stops responding
A solid blue screen appears
Internet Connection Problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
If you have a problem with your Dellnet account
E-Mail Problems
If Your Computer Gets Wet
If You Drop or Damage Your Computer
Resolving Other Technical Problems
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
Reinstalling Windows
Reinstalling Windows Me and Windows 98
Reinstalling Windows 2000
Use the following safety guidelines to help protect yourself and your
computer. For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in
"Sitting Comfortably at Your Computer" in the Tell Me How help file.
When Using Your Computer
CAUTION: Do not operate your portable computer for an extended
period of time w ith the b ase rest ing direct ly on your body. With
extended operation, heat can potentially build up in the base.
Allowing sustained contact with the skin cou ld cause d iscomfort
or, eventually, a burn.
•Do not attempt to service the computer yourself. Always follow
installation instructions closely.
•Do not carry a battery in your pocket, purse, or other container where
metal objects (such as car keys) could short-circuit the battery
terminals. The resulting excessive current flow can cause extremely
high temperatures and may result in damage from burns.
•Be sure that nothing rests on your AC adapter’s power cable and that
the cable is not located where it can be tripped over or stepped on.
•Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a desk top or on the
floor, when you use it to run the computer or to charge the battery. Do
not cover the AC adapter with papers or other items that will reduce
cooling; also, do not use the AC adapter while it is inside a carrying
case.
•Do not use your computer in a wet environment, for example, near a
bath tub, sink, or swimming pool or in a wet basement.
•Do not push objects into air vents or openings of your computer.
Doing so can cause fire or electric shock by shorting out interior
components.
•Use only the AC adapter and batteries that are approved for use with
this computer as indicated in this document. Use of another type of
battery or AC adapter may risk fire or explosion.
Safety Instructions7
Page 8
•Before you connect the computer to a power source, ensure that the
voltage rating of the AC adapter matches that of the available power
source:
–115 V/60 Hz in most of North and South America and some Far
Eastern countries such as South Korea and Ta iwan
–100 V/50 Hz in eastern Japan and 100 V/60 Hz in western Japan
–230 V/50 Hz in most of Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East
•To help prevent electric shock, plug the AC adapter and external
device power cables into properly grounded power sources. These
cables are equipped with 3-prong plugs to help ensure proper
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
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.
•If you use an extension cable with your AC adapter, ensure that the
total ampere rating of the products plugged in to the extension cable
does not exceed the ampere rating of the extension cable.
•To remove power from the computer, turn it off, remove the battery,
and disconnect the AC adapter from the el ectrical outlet.
•If your computer includes an integrated or optional (PC Card)
modem, disconnect the modem cable during an electrical storm to
avoid the remote risk of electric shock from lightning via the telephone
line.
8Safety Instructions
•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.
•PC Cards may become very warm during normal operation. Use care
when removing PC Cards after their continuous operation.
•Do not dispose of batteries in a fire. They may explode. Check with
local authorities for disposal instruc tions.
•When setting up the computer for work, place it on a level surface.
•When traveling, do not check the computer as baggage. You can put
your computer through an X-ray security machine, but never put your
computer through a metal detector. If you have the computer checked
by hand, be sure to have a charged battery available in case you are
asked to turn on the computer.
Page 9
•When traveling with the hard drive removed from the computer, wrap
the drive in a nonconducting material, such as cloth or paper. If you
have the drive checked by hand, be ready to install the drive in the
computer. You can put the hard drive through an X-ray security
machine, but never put the drive through a metal detector.
•When traveling, do not place the computer in overhead storage
compartments where it could slide around. Do not drop your
computer or subject it to other mechanical shocks.
•Protect your computer, battery, and hard drive from environmental
hazards such as dirt, dust, food, liquids, temperature extremes, and
overexposure to sunlight.
•When you move your computer between environments with very
different temperature and/or humidity ranges, condensation may form
on or within the computer. To avoid damaging the computer, allow
sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate before using the
computer.
NOTICE: When taking the computer from low-temperature conditions into a
warmer environment or fro m high-temperature conditions into a cooler
environment, allow the computer to acclimate to room temperature before
turning on power.
•When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-
relief loop, not on the cable itself. As you pull out the connector, keep
it evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you
connect a cable make sure both connectors are correctly oriented and
aligned.
•Handle components with care. Hold a component such as a memory
module by its edges, not its pins.
•When removing a memory module from the system board or
disconnecting an external device from the computer, wait 5 seconds
after turning off the computer before removing the memory module or
disconnecting the device to help avoid possible damage to the system
board.
•Before you clean your computer, turn it off, unplug it from its power
source, and remove the battery.
•Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water rather
than with liquid or aerosol cleaners.
Safety Instructions9
Page 10
•Clean the display with a soft, clean cloth and commercial window
cleaner that does not contain wax or abrasives. Apply the cleaner to the
cloth; then stroke the cloth across the display in one direction, moving
from the top of the display to the bottom. If the display contains
grease or some other contaminant, use isopropyl alcohol instead of
commercial window cleaner.
•If your computer gets wet, see page 42 for instructions. If you drop or
damage the computer, see page 43. If, after following these procedures,
you confirm that your computer is not operating properly, contact Dell
(see page 75).
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When Removing or Installing Memory Modules
Before you remove or install memory modules, perform the following steps
in the sequence indicated.
NOTICE: The only time you should ever access the inside of your computer is
when you are installing memory modules.
NOTICE: Wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting
an external devic e or removing a memory module to help prevent possible
damage to the system board.
1
Turn off your computer and all attached devices.
Disconnect your computer and external devices from their electrical
2
outlets to reduce the potential for personal injury or shock. Also,
disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the
computer.
Remove the battery from the battery bay and, if present, the secondary
3
battery from the mo d ul ar ba y.
Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface at the back of
4
the computer before touching anything inside your computer.
While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface on the
computer to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal
components.
10Safety Instructions
Page 11
In addition, take note of these safety gu idelines when appropriate:
•When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector, not on the cable
itself. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid
bending any pins. Also, before you connect a cable, make sure that
both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
•Handle memory modules with care. Don’t touch the components on a
module. Hold a module by its edges.
CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is
incorrectly installed. Replace the batter y only with the same or
equivalent type recomme nded by the manufacture r. Discard used
batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge
To prevent static damage, d ischarge static electr icity from your body before
you touch anything inside your computer and periodically while you work
inside the computer. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface
on the back of the computer.
You can also take the following steps to prevent static damage:
•Do not remove items from their antistati c packing material unti l y o u
are ready to install them in your computer. Just before unwrapping the
antistatic packaging, be sure to discharge static electricity from your
body.
•When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic
container or packaging.
Safety Instructions11
Page 12
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12Safety Instructions
Page 13
1
SECTION 1
Setting Up
Setting Up Dellnet™
Connecting a Printer
Turning Off the Comput er
Using the Modular Bay
Setting Up the APR to Connect to a Network
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Page 14
HINT: Dellnet is not
available in certain
regions.
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Setting Up Dellnet
™
To set up Dellnet Internet Access Service, double-click the Dellnet Signup
®
icon on the Microsoft
Windows® desktop and follow the instructions that
appear on the screen.
Accessing the Internet
To access the Internet after completing the Dellnet registration process,
double-click the Internet Explorer icon on your Windows desktop. Internet
Explorer automatically initiates the Internet connection through Dellnet.
Accessi ng Your E-Mail
To access your Dellnet e-mail, double-click the Outlook Express icon on
your Windows desktop. Click Send/Receive to download your messages
from the mail server. When you download your messages, they are stored on
your hard drive until you delete them.
Viewing Your Account Information
HINT: Del lnet all ows you
to use case-sensitive
passwords. Be sure that
<Caps Lock> is not
turned on.
14Setting Up
If you did not record your Dellnet user name or password, access the
Dellnet Administration tool to verify or change this information:
Click the Start button, point to Programs—>Dellnet, and then click
1
DellnetAdministration.
Click Next twice.
2
Click Connect to connect to Dellnet.
3
When the Dellnet Self-Administration page appears, click View My
4
AccountInformation.
Click Next.
5
Type your Challenge Phrase answer.
6
Click Next.
7
Your account information appears on the screen.
Click Print to print the information or click Main Menu to go to the
8
main menu.
Page 15
Sending and Receiving E-Mail
•Double-click the Outlook Express icon to initiate a connection to the
Internet through Dellnet.
•Always check the address of each recipient when sending e-mail.
Otherwise, your e-mail is returned to you.
•Be sure that the person who is sending e-mail to you is typing your
e-mail address correctly.
•Do not send e-mail messages larger than 2 MB.
•If you are having difficulties sending e-mail, determine whether the
problem involves just one recipient or all recipients. Then contact the
Dellnet technical support staff (see page 75).
Resetting E-Mail Address Settings
If your e-mail software gets corrupted, reset your account:
Click the Start button, point to Programs—>Dellnet, and then click
1
Dellnet Administration.
Click Next twice.
2
Click Connect to connect to Dellnet.
3
When the Dellnet Self-Administration page appears, click Make My
4
Changes Take Effect.
Click Next.
5
Type your Challenge Phrase answer.
6
Click Next.
7
Click Click To Make Changes Take Effect.
8
Click OK.
9
Setting Up15
Page 16
Connecting a Printer
See the documentation that came with the printer fo r an y recommended
preparation procedures, such as:
•Removing the packaging
•Installing the toner or ink cartridge
•Loading paper
Then follow the instructions that came with the printer to connect it to the
computer. If no information is provided, see the following sections.
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HINT: For complete
printer driver installation
instructions, refer to your
printer documentation.
Installing the Printer Driver
Dell installs drivers for some new printers. Click the Start button, point to
Settings, and then click Printers. If your printer is listed in the Printers
window, the printer is ready to use.
If you need to install a printer driver, insert the installation CD into the CD
or DVD d riv e. The n fol low t he pr ompts on the scr een usi ng th e ins truct ion s
that came with the printer.
If your printer installat ion CD does not automatically run, click the Start
button on the Windows de skt o p, c lic k Run, and type x:\setup.exe
(where x is the letter of your CD or DVD drive [usually drive D]). Then
click OK and follow the prompts on your screen.
Parallel Printer
Turn off the computer (see page 18).
1
NOTICE: Use only a standard IEEE parallel cable measuring 3 m (10 ft) or
less to connect the printer to the computer. Use of a nonstandard cable may
prevent the printer from working.
16Setting Up
Page 17
Attach the parallel printer cable to the parallel por t c onnector on the
2
computer and tighten the two screws. Attach the cable to the parallel
connector on the printer and sna p the two clips into the two not c hes.
screws (2)
parallel printer
cable
Turn on the printer and then turn on the comput er. If the Add New
3
parallel port connector
on computer
printer cable
connector
notches (2)
Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel.
Install the printer driver if necessary (see page 16).
4
clips (2)
Setting Up17
Page 18
USB Printer
HINT: Yo u can connect
USB devices while the
computer is turned on.
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Install the printer driver if necessary (see page 16).
1
Attach the USB printer cable to the USB port connector on the
2
computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.
USB port connector
on computer
USB port connector
on printer
USB printer
cable
18Setting Up
Turning Off the Comp uter
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, you must perform th e Windows shutdown
procedure to turn off your co mputer.
Windows Millennium Edition (Me) and Windows 2000
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
1
Click the Start button and then click Shut Down.
2
Click the pull-down menu under What do you want the computer to
3
do?.
Click Shut down and then click OK.
4
The computer automati c ally turns off after the shutdown process
finishes.
Page 19
Windows 98
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
1
Click the Start button and then click Shut Down.
2
In the Shut Down Windows window, click Shut down and then click
3
OK.
The computer automati c ally turns off after the shutdown process
finishes.
Using the Modular Bay
Dell ships your computer with a CD drive (or an optional DVD drive)
installed in the modular bay. The modular bay also supports the following
devices:
•CD drive
•CD-RW drive
•DVD drive
•Zip drive
•Floppy drive
•SuperDisk LS-120 drive
•Second battery
•Dell TravelLite™ mod ule
NOTICE: To prevent irreparable damage to the docking connector, do not
remove or replace devices while the computer is connected to an advanced port
replicator (APR).
Swapping Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down
1
the computer (see page 18).
If the computer is connected (docked) to an APR, undock it (see
2
page 59).
Close the display and turn the computer over.
3
Setting Up19
Page 20
Slide and hold the latch release, and pull the device out of the modular
bott
4
bay.
NOTICE: To prevent damage, place devices in a travel case when they are not
inserted in the computer. Store devices in a dry, safe place, and avoid placing
heavy objects on top of them.
om of computer
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20Setting Up
devicelatch release
NOTICE: Insert devices before you dock and turn on the computer.
Insert the new device into the bay, and push it until you hear a click.
5
Turn on the computer.
6
Page 21
Swapping Devices While Windows Is Running
NOTICE: To prevent irreparable damage to the docking connector, do not
replace devices while the computer is connected to an APR.
In Microsoft Windows 98 or Windows Me
Right-click the Softex BayManager icon on the Microsoft Windows
1
taskbar.
Click Remove/Swap.
2
Keep the display open, and tilt the computer back so that you can
3
access the bottom of the computer.
Slide and hold the latch release, and pull the device out of the modular
4
bay.
Insert the new device into the bay, and push it until you hear a click.
5
Click OK. Then, click OK again to close the Softex BayManager
6
window.
In Microsoft Windows 2000
Double-click the Unplug or Eject Hardware icon on the Microsoft
1
Windows taskbar.
Click the device you want to eject and then click Stop.
2
Click OK and wait until the device you want to eject is cleared from
3
the list of devices in the Unplug or Eject Hardware window.
Keep the display open, and tilt the computer back so that you can
4
access the bottom of the computer.
Slide and hold the latch release, and pull the device out of the modular
5
bay.
Insert the new device into the bay, and push it until you hear a click.
6
When Windows recognizes the new device, click Close.
7
Setting Up21
Page 22
Setting Up the APR to Connect to a
Network
HINT: A network adapter
is also referred to as a
network interface
controller (NIC).
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NOTICE: Do not install a NIC or a NIC/modem combination PC Card until
you complete the advanced port re plicator (APR) setup.
If you purchased the APR with an integrated network adapter, you must
first configure the computer to use the APR with a network.
Setting Up the APR for Windows Me and Windows 98
If the computer is on, shut down the operating system and turn off the
1
computer (see page 18).
Disconnect all external devices from the APR.
2
Connect the AC adapter to the APR and an electrical outlet.
3
Insert the computer into the APR.
4
Turn on the computer.
5
The computer automatically detects the network ad apter and begins
the software installatio n.
At the Add New Hardware Wizard window, click Automatic search for
6
a better driver (Recommended) and then click Next.
Click Finish when Windows displays a message that the driver is
7
installed.
Click Yes to restart the computer.
8
22Setting Up
After the computer restarts, Windows modifies settings, creates a
Dock 1 configuration, and then displays a
Setup is complete
message.
Click OK.
9
Updated display settings
If the
10
If necessary, consult your network administrator for instructions on
11
message appears, click OK.
configuring the network adapter settings.
Page 23
Setting Up the APR for Windows 2000
NOTICE: Do not install the drivers from the CD that is shipped with the APR.
The network adapter will not work if they are installed.
If the computer is on, shut down the operating system and turn off the
1
computer (see page 18).
Disconnect all external devices from the APR.
2
Insert the computer into the APR.
3
Attach the network cable and the AC adapter to the APR.
4
Turn on the computer.
5
Log on as a user with administrative privileges.
6
Make sure that 3Com PCI Ethernet Adapter (10/100) appears in the
7
Found New Hardware window.
Windows 2000 automatically installs the network adapter drivers.
Setting Up23
Page 24
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24Setting Up
Page 25
2
SECTION 2
Solving Problems
Finding Solutions
Accessing Help Files
Power Problems
Start-Up Error Messages
Video and Display Problems
Sound and Speaker Problems
Printer Problems
Modem Problems
Scanner Problems
Touch Pad Problems
External Keyboard Problems
Unexpect ed C ha racters
Drive Problems
Network Problems
Windows Error Messages
General Program Problems
Internet Connection Problems
E-Mail Problems
If Your Computer Gets Wet
If You Drop or Damage Your Computer
Resolving Other Technical Problems
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
Reinstalling Windows
Recreating the Hibernate File (Windows 98 Only)
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Page 26
HINT: If you have a
problem with an external
device, see the device
documentation or contact
the manufacturer.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Finding Solutions
Sometimes it’s difficult to figure out where to go for answers. Use this chart
to quickly find the answers to your questions .
See page 29.
Press the power button to
resume from standby mode.
T ell Me How
See the
(see page 28) for more
information on standby mod e.
Get technical assistance from
Dell. See page 75.
See page 30.
help file
26Solving Problems
Page 27
See page 30.
See page 32.
See page 33.
See page 34.
See page 35.
See page 35.
See page 36.
See page 36.
See page 36.
See page 39.
See page 39.
See page 44.
See page 40.
See page 41.
See page 42.
Solving Problems27
Page 28
Accessing Help Files
TO
ACCESS THE
Click the
1
TO
ACCESS WINDOWS
Click the
1
Click the
2
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and then click
3
Click the topic that describes your problem and then click
4
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Follow the instruc tions shown on the screen.
5
TO
ACCESS WINDOWS ME HELP
Click the
1
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem in the
2
Tell Me Ho w
button, po int t o
Start
2000 H
button and then click
Start
tab.
Search
button and then click
Start
HELP FILE
Dell Documents
ELP
.
Help
.
Help
, and then click
Display
Search
Tell Me How
List Topics
.
box and then
.
.
click Go.
Click the topic that describes your problem and then click
3
Follow the instruc tions shown on the screen.
4
TO
ACCESS WINDOWS
Click the
1
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and then click
2
In the
3
then click
Follow the instruc tions shown on the screen.
4
Start
Topics Found
Display
98 SE H
button and then click
ELP
Help
.
window, click the topic that describes your problem and
.
Display
.
Display
.
28Solving Problems
Page 29
Power Problems
C
HECK THE POWER LIGHT
When the pow er light is bl inkin g, the compu ter
—
has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press
the power button to resume from standby mode. If the power light is off, press
the power button.
C
HECK THE BATTERY
If you are using a battery to power your computer, the
—
battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an elec trical outlet
using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.
T
EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET
Ensure th at the el ectric al outl et is wor king
—
by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
C
HECK THE
AC
ADAPTER
Be sure that the power cable is firmly inserted
—
into the electrical outlet and the green light on the AC adapter is on.
C
ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET
—
Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify
that the computer turns on.
C
HECK FOR INTERFERENCE
Electrical applia nces on the same circuit o r
—
operating near the computer can cause interference. Other causes of
interference: power extension cables, too many devices on a power strip, or
multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet.
HINT: See the
help file for
How
Tell Me
information on standby
mode.
A
DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES
for the keyword
R
ESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES
standby
in
Windows Help.
See the
—
Tell Me How
To access help files, see page 28.
If your computer power light turns on
—
help file or search
but the display remains blank, you may need to reseat the memory modules (see
page 61).
Solving Problems29
Page 30
Start-Up Error Messages
O
PERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND
page 75).
I
NSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA
nonbootable floppy disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.
NON-
SYSTEM DISK ERROR
floppy disk and restart the computer.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
—
—
Call Dell for technical ass i stance (see
—
The operating system is trying to boot to a
A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the
Video and Display Problems
If the display is blank
C
HECK THE POWER LIGHT
has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press
the power button to resume from standby mode. If the power light is off, press
the power button.
C
HECK THE BATTERY
battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an elec trical outlet
using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.
—
When the po wer light is bl inki ng, the comp uter
—
If you are using a battery to power your computer, the
30Solving Problems
T
EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET
by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
C
HECK THE
into the electrical outlet and the green light on the AC adapter is on.
A
DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES
Windows Help
AC
ADAPTER
. To access help files, see page 28.
—
Ensure th at the el ectric al outl et is wor king
—
Be sure that the power cable is firmly inserted
Search for the keyword
—
standby
in
Page 31
If the display is difficult to read
A
DJUST THE BRIGHTNESS
See the
—
Tell Me How
help file (s ee page 28) for
instructions on ad justing the brightness.
M
OVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR
—
your external speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is
at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.
E
LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE
Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent
—
lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.
R
OTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION
Eliminate
—
sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality.
R
ESTORE THE RECOMMENDED SETTINGS
and refresh rate se tt ings. See the
Tell Me How
Restore the original resolution
—
help file for instructions. To access
help files, see page 28.
A
DJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS
Click the
1
Double-click the
2
Try different settings for
3
button, point to
Start
Display
Settings
, and then click
icon and then click the
and
Colors
Screen area
Settings
.
Control Pane l
tab.
.
If
Solving Problems31
Page 32
Sound and Speaker Problems
Integrat ed S p eakers
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HINT: The volume
control in some MP3
players overrides the
Windows volume setting.
If you have been listening
to MP3 songs, make sure
that you did not turn the
player volume down or off.
A
DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL
Double-click the yellow
—
speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is
turned up and that the sound is not muted.
C
HECK THE VOLUME CONTROL BUTTONS
Press both volume control
—
buttons sim ultan e ously o r pr e ss <Fn> <E nd> t o di sabl e (mu te) or r ee na ble t he
integrated speakers.
R
EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER
See page44.
—
External Speakers
V
ERIFY THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS
are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.
T
EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET
Ensure th at the el ectric al outl et is wor king
—
by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
E
NSURE THAT THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON
supplied with the speakers.
Ensure that the speakers
—
See the setup dia g r am
—
32Solving Problems
A
DJUST THE SPEAKER CONTROLS
Adjust the volume, bass, or treble
—
controls to eliminate distortion.
A
DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL
Double-click the yellow
—
speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is
turned up and that the sound is not muted.
T
EST THE SPEAKERS
Plug the speaker audio cable into the headphone
—
connector on the side of the computer. Ensure that the headphone volu me
control is turned up. Play a music CD.
Page 33
RUN
THE SPEAKER SELF-TEST
Some speaker systems have a self-test
—
button on the subwoofer. See the speaker documentation for self-test
instructions.
M
OVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR
your external speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is
at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.
E
LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE
Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent
—
lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.
R
EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER
See page 44.
—
Printer Problems
If you cannot print to a parallel port printer
V
ERIFY THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS
cable is connected as described on page 16.
T
EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET
Ensure th at the el ectric al outl et is wor king
—
by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
E
NSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON
supplied with the printer.
Ensure that the printer
—
See the documentation
—
—
If
V
ERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS
Click the
1
If the printer is listed , right-click the printe r icon, click
select the
Ensure that the
2
R
EINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER
button, point to
Start
tab.
Details
Print to the following port:
Settings
—
, and then click
setting is
See page 16.
Printers
Properties,
LPT1 (Printer Port)
.
and then
.
Solving Problems33
Page 34
If you cannot print to a USB printer
V
ERIFY THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS
Ensure that the printer
—
cable is connected as described on page 18.
T
EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET
Ensure th at the el ectric al outl et is wor king
—
by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
E
NSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON
See the docume n ta t io n
—
supplied with the printer.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
V
ERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS
Click the
1
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer ico n, click
select the
Ensure that the
2
R
EINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER
button, point to
Start
tab.
Details
Print to the fo llowing port:
Settings
—
, and then click
setting is
See page 16.
Printers
Properties,
.
USB
—
.
and then
Modem Problems
NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only.
Connecting the modem to a digital telephone network damages t he modem.
34Solving Problems
C
HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK
Disconnect the telephone line from the
—
modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.
C
ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK
—
If
you have other tel epho ne devic es sharin g the li ne, su ch a s an an sw ering mac hin e,
fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and connect the
modem directly to the telephone wall jack with the telephone line.
Page 35
C
HECK THE CONNECTION
modem.
V er ify that th e teleph one line is connec ted to th e
—
C
HECK THE TELEPHONE LINE
are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
RUN
THE MODEM DIAGNOSTICS
Programs
—>
3Com NIC Utilities
Try using a different telephone line. If you
—
Click the
—
, and then click
button, point to
Start
3Com NIC Doctor
Scanner Problems
C
HECK THE POWER CABLE CONNECTION
cable is firmly connected to a working electrical power source and that the
scanner is turned on.
C
HECK THE SCANNER CABLE CONNECTION
cable is firm ly connected to the co mp uter and to the sca nn e r.
U
NLOCK THE SCANNER
locking tab or button.
R
EINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER
instructions.
Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a
—
—
Ensure tha t th e sc a n ne r pow e r
—
Ensure that the scanner
—
See the scanne r doc u m en t a tion for
.
Touch Pad Problems
C
HECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS
Settings
adjusting the settings.
, click
Control Panel
, and then double-click the
Click the
—
button, point to
Start
Mouse
icon. Try
Solving Problems35
Page 36
External Keyboard Problems
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
HINT: For informatio n
on saving files to a floppy
disk, see the
help file (see page 28).
Tell Me How
D
ISCONNECT THE KEYBOARD CABLE
page 18). Disconnect the keyboard cable and check the cable connector for be nt
or broken pins.
Shut down the com p u ter (see
—
Unexpected Characters
D
ISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD
numeric keypad. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.
Press the <Num Lk> key to disable the
—
Drive Problems
If you cannot save a file to a floppy disk
E
NSURE THAT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE
My Computer
antivirus softw are to check for and remove vir uses. Viruses can sometimes
prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
C
ANNOT SAVE FILES TO A FLOPPY DISK
not full or write -p r o te c te d (locked). See the following illustration.
icon. If the floppy drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your
Ensure that the floppy disk is
—
Double-click the
—
36Solving Problems
T
EST THE DRIVE WITH ANOTHER FLOPPY DISK
disk to eliminate the possibility that the original floppy disk is defective.
Insert another floppy
—
Page 37
back of fl
oppy dis
k
write-protected
not writeprotected
If you cannot play a music CD or install a program from a CD
E
NSURE THAT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE
My Computer
icon. If the CD drive is not listed, perfor m a full scan with your
antivirus softw are to check for and remove vir uses. Viruses can sometimes
prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
Double-click the
—
HINT: High-speed CD
drive vibration is normal
and may cause noise. This
does not indicate a defect
in the drive or the CD.
T
EST THE DRIVE WITH ANOTHER
Insert another CD to eliminate the
CD—
possibility that th e original CD is defective.
C
LEAN THE DISC
See the
—
Tell Me How
help file for instructions. To access
help files, see page 28.
A
DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL
Double-click the ye llow
—
speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is
turned up and that the so und is not muted.
Solving Problems37
Page 38
HINT: Because of
different worldwide file
types, not all DVD titles
work in all DVD drives.
If you canno t play a DVD movie
E
NSURE THAT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE
My Computer
icon. If the DVD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your
antivirus softw are to check for and remove vir uses. Viruses can sometimes
prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
Double-click the
—
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
HINT: If you must
disable standby mode to
write to a CD-RW drive,
remember to enable
standby mode again when
you finish writing the CD.
T
EST THE DRIVE WITH ANOTHER
DVD—
Insert another DVD to eliminate
the possibility tha t the original DVD is defective.
C
LEAN THE DISC
See the
—
Tell Me How
help file for instructions. To access,
help files, see page 28.
If the CD-RW drive stops writing
D
ISABLE STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A
RW
DISK
Search for the keyword
—
standby
in
Windows Help.
files, see page 28.
C
HANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE
The CD-RW drive
—
must rece ive a stea dy str eam of da ta wh en wri ting. I f th e str eam i s inte rrup ted, an
error occurs. Closing all programs before writing to the CD-RW may also
alleviate the problem.
CD-
To access help
If you have a hard drive problem
C
HECK THE HARD DRIVE FOR ERRORS
Windows 98 SE and Windows Me:
Click the
then click
Windows 2000:
Double-click the
1
Right-click the
2
Click the
3
Click
4
button, point to
Start
ScanDisk
Local Disk
tab.
Tools
Check Now
Programs
.
My Computer
icon and then click
.
icon.
—>
Accessories
Properties
—>
System T ools
.
, and
38Solving Problems
Page 39
Network Problems
C
HECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR
cable connector is firmly connected to the connector on the computer and the
network wall jack.
C
HECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR
indicates t hat t h e ne two rk co nne cti on is ac tive . I f t he s tatu s l igh t is no t green, try
replacing the network cable. Amber indicates that the network card driver is
loaded and the card is detecting activity.
R
ESTART THE COMPUTER
C
ONTACT YOUR NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR
settings are correct and that the network is functioning.
Try to log on to the network again.
—
Ensure that the networ k
—
Verify that your network
—
—
Green
Windows Error Messages
:\ IS
X
NOT ACCESSIBLE
the drive and try agai n.
A
FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING
CHARACTERS
filenames.
: \ / : * ? “ < > |—
. THE
DEVICE IS NOT READY
Do not use these cha ra c ters in
Insert a disk into
—
Solving Problems39
Page 40
NOT
ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES
You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open
TRY AGAIN
—
the program that you want to use.
. C
LOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND
THE
FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION
The file that you are trying to cop y is to o la rge to fit on th e d isk, or the
—
DRIVE
disk is too full. Try copying the file to a different disk or use a larger capacity disk.
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:
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Window 98 SE and Windows Me:
Click the
1
Double-click the
2
Select the program that you want to remove.
3
Click
4
Add/Remove
See the program documenta tion for installatio n instructions.
5
button, point to
Start
Add/Remove Programs
and follow the prompts on the screen.
Settings
, and then click
icon.
Control Pane l
.
Windows 2000:
Click the
1
Double-click the
2
Select the program that you want to remove.
3
Click
4
Change/Remove
See the program documenta tion for installatio n instructions.
5
button, point to
Start
Add/Remove Programs
and follow the prompts on the screen.
Settings
, and then click
icon.
Control Pane l
.
General Program Problems
40Solving Problems
A program crashes
SEE
THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION
maintain websites with information that may hel p you to solve the problem.
Many software manufacturers
—
A program stops responding
P
RESS
<C
><ALT><DEL>—
TRL
In the
Close Program
program that is no longer responding. Then click
End Task
window, sele ct the
.
Page 41
A solid blue screen appears
T
URN THE COMPUTER OFF
If the computer does not respond to a keystroke
—
or a proper shutdown (see page 18), press the power button until the computer
turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer. The solid blue
screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows
shutdown. ScanDisk will automatically run during the start-up process. Follow
the instructions on the screen.
Internet Connection Problems
If you have a problem with your Dellnet account
R
R
T
“S
EVIEW
EVIEW
URN OFF CALL WAITING (CATCH-PHONE
ETTING UP DELLNET
“M
ODEM PROBLEMS
for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking
connection properties:
Click the
1
Double-click the
2
In the
3
4
Modems Properties
Ensure that
button, point to
Start
Modems
icon.
window, click
To disable call waiting, dial:
proper code according to the info rmation in your telephone direc to r y.
Click
5
Close the
6
Close the
7
and then click OK.
Apply
Modems Properties
Control Panel
window.
window.
”—
See page 34.
”—
Settings
See page14.
See your telephone directory
)—
, and then click
Dialing Properties
Control Pane l
.
is checked, and then select the
.
Solving Problems41
Page 42
E-Mail Problems
R
E
Outlook Express e-mail program open, click
next to it, click the check to remove it and connect to the Internet.
"S
EVIEW
NSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET
ENDING AND RECEIVING
E-
MAIL
File
See page 15.
"—
. If
Work Offline
With t he
—
has a check
If Your Computer Gets Wet
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
CAUTION: Perform this procedure only after you are certain that
it is safe to do so. If the computer is connected to an electrical
outlet, Dell recommends that you turn off AC power at the circuit
breaker before attempting to remove the power cables from the
electrical outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing wet
cables from a live p ower source.
Turn off the computer (see page 18), disconnect the AC adapter from
1
the computer, and disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical
outlet.
Turn of f any attached external dev ices, and disconnect them from
2
their power sources and then from the computer.
Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back
3
of the computer.
Remove the modular bay device (see page 19) and any installed PC
4
Cards, and put them in a safe place to dry.
42Solving Problems
Remove the batt e r y.
5
Wipe off the battery an d put it in a safe place to dry.
6
Remove the hard drive (see page 63).
7
Remove the memory modules (see page 61).
8
Open the display, and place the computer right-side up across two
9
books or similar props to let air circulate all around it. Let the
computer dry for at least 24hours in a dry area at room temperature.
NOTICE: Do not use artificial means, such as a hair dryer or a fan, to speed
up the dryin g process.
Page 43
CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, ve rify that the
computer is thoroughly dry before continuing with the remainder
of this procedure.
Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back
10
of the computer.
Replace the memory modules, the memory module cover, and screw
11
(see page 61).
Replace the hard drive and screw (see page 63).
12
Replace the modular bay device (see page 19) and any PC Cards you
13
removed.
Replace the battery.
14
Turn on the computer and verify that it is working properly.
15
If the computer does not turn on, or if you cannot identify the damaged
components, call Dell for technical assistance (see page75).
If You Drop or Damage Your Computer
Save and close any open files, ex it any open app licat ion pro grams, and
1
shut down the computer (see page 18).
Disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, and disconnect the
2
AC adapter from the electrical outlet.
Turn of f any attached external devices , an d disconnect them from
3
their power sources and then from the computer.
Remove and reinstall the battery.
4
Turn on the computer.
5
If the computer does not turn on, or if you cannot identify the damaged
components, call Dell for technical assistance (see page75).
Solving Problems43
Page 44
Resolving Other Technical Problems
GO TO
help with general usage, installatio n, and troubleshooti ng questions.
E-
the
can expect to receive an e-mail message from Dell within hours.
C
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 75).
THE DELL SUPPORT WEBSITE
Go to
MAIL DELL
Communicate
ALL DELL
—
If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell support website
—
http://support.dell.com
list. Send an e-mail message to Dell about your problem; you
—
Go to
http://support.dell.com
and then click
E-Mail Dell
for
in
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
NOTICE: The Dell support website,
and Utilities
drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.
Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD into the CD or DVD drive.
1
Double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop.
2
Double-click the icon for your CD or DVD drive.
3
Double-click the folder for your operating system.
4
Double-click the appropriate language folder for the driver you want to
5
CD provide approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install
http://support.dell.com
install.
, and the
Drivers
HINT: You may need to
open more folders to find
the
setup.exe
example, to install the
Windows 98 touch pad
driver, double-click
win98
touchpad
english
click
44Solving Problems
file. For
, double-click
, double-click
, and then double-
setup.exe
.
Double-click the setup.exe file and follow the prompts.
6
For detailed information on installing specific drivers and utilities for your
computer, see Dell’s support website at http://support.dell.com.
Page 45
Reinstalling Windows
Reinstalling Windows Me and Windows 98
NOTICE: The
Windows Me or Windows 98 Second Edition (SE) operating system. The
options can potentially overwrite files installed by Dell and possibly affect
programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, Dell does not recommend
that you reinstall your operating system unless instructed to do so by a Dell
technical support representativ e.
NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows Me or Windows 98, you must
disable any virus prote ction software installed on your system before you
reinstall Windows.
1 Turn on the computer, and enter the system setup program as directed
Operating System
CD provides options for reinstalling your
by a Dell technical support representative.
In the system setup pr ogram Boot menu, change the boot sequence so
2
that the CD or DVD drive boots first as directed by a Dell technical
support representative. Then place the Operating System CD in the
CD or DVD drive and close the drive tray.
Exit the syst em setup program.
3
At the Welcome window, click OK.
4
Double-click Refresh Windows OS.
5
Click OK.
6
Click OK again.
7
Remove the Operating System CD from the CD or DVD drive, and
8
click OK to restart yo u r com pu t er.
The Getting ready to run Windows for the first time window appears.
If the mouse tutorial starts, press <Esc> to exit and then press <y>.
9
Click the regional setting closest to where you live, and then click
10
Next.
Click the graphic that matches your keyboard layout, and then click
11
Next.
Solving Problems45
Page 46
In the User Information window, type your name and, if applicable,
12
company name, and then click Next.
The Name field must be completed; the Company Name field is
optional.
The License Agreement window appears.
Click I accept the Agreement, and then click Next.
13
Type the Windows product key in the fields provided, and then click
14
Next.
The product key is the bar code number found on the Microsoft
Windows label, which is located on the computer.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
When the Start Wizard appears, click Finish.
15
The Enter Windows Password window appears. To continue without
creating a Windows user name and password, click OK. Otherwise,
type your user name and password in the appropriate fields, and then
click OK.
If the Date/Time P roperties window appears , adjust the date and time
16
properties, c lick Apply, and then click OK.
Windows updates the system settings and restarts your computer.
If you created a Windows user name and password, type your password
17
and click OK.
46Solving Problems
Reinstall the appropriate drivers (see page 44).
18
Reenable your virus protection software.
19
Reinstalling Windows 2000
Insert the Operating System CD into the CD or DVD drive.
1
Shut down the computer (see page 18).
2
Turn on the computer.
3
Press any key when the
4
appears on the screen.
When the Windows 2000 Setup window appears, ensure that the To
5
setup Win2000 now, press ENTER option is highlighted. Then press
<Enter>.
Press any key to boot from CD
message
Page 47
Read the information in the License Agreement window, and then
6
press <F8> to continue.
When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup window appears, press
7
the arrow keys to select the Windows 2000 partition option that you
want. To continue, press the key specified in the partition option that
you chose.
When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup window reappears, press
8
the arrow keys to select the type of filing system that you want
Windows 2000 to use, and then press <Enter>.
Press <Enter> again to restart your computer.
9
Click Next when the Welcome to the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard
10
window appears.
When the Regional Settings window appears, select the settings for
11
your locale, and then click Next.
Enter your name and organization in the Personalize Your Software
12
window, and then click Next.
When prompted, enter the Windows product key, which is printed on
13
the Microsoft label on your computer. Then click Next.
When the Computer Name and Administrator Password window
14
appears, enter a name for your computer and a password, if desired.
Then click Next.
Enter the date and time in the Date and Time Settings window, and
15
then click Next.
Windows 2000 begins to install its components and configure the
computer.
When the Completing the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard window
16
appears, remove the CD from the drive, and then click Finish. Th e
computer automatically restarts.
Solving Problems47
Page 48
Recreating the Hibernate File
(Windows 98 Only)
HINT: Windows Me and
Windows 2000 recreat e
the hibernate file
automatically.
HINT: If you install
additional memory, you
must delete the original
hibernate file before
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
recreating a new one .
When hibernate mode is activated, all system data is stored in the hibernate
file on your hard drive. The hibernate file cannot be accessed by the
Windows operating system or application programs.
You must recreate the hibernate file if you perform any of the following
actions:
•Delete the hibernate file.
•Install a new hard drive.
•Reformat your hard drive.
•Install additional memory.
Boot (Restart) Your Computer With the Drivers and Utilities CD
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down
1
the computer.
If the computer is connected (docked) to an advanced port replicator
2
(APR), undock it (see page 59).
Turn on the computer.
3
Press <F2> as soon as you see the Dell logo.
4
System setup screen Page 1 appears after a few seconds.
48Solving Problems
Pre ss <Al t><p > to vie w Page 2.
5
Press the arrow keys to select the following boot sequence:
6
•Boot First Device: CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive
•Boot Second Device: Diskette Drive
•Boot Third Device: Internal HDD
Press <Esc> to save your changes and exit the system setup program.
7
Restart the compute r.
8
After the computer restarts and loads the diagnostic utility, press the
9
down-arrow key to select Exit to MS-DOS and then press <Enter>.
Page 49
Delete the Old Hibernate File
Boot your computer from the Drivers and Utilities CD as described on
1
page 48.
R:\DIAGS
At the
2
R:\
At the
3
Type
4
Create the hibernate file.
5
prompt, type
rms2d
and press <Enter>.
prompt, type
cd\win98\suspend
cd\
and press <Enter>.
and press <Enter>.
Create the Hibernate File
Boot your computer from the Drivers and Utilities CD as described on
1
page 48.
R:\DIAGS
At the
2
R:\
At the
3
mks2d
Type
4
Press the power button until the computer turns off.
5
Remove the Drivers and Utilities CD from the CD or DVD drive.
6
Turn on the computer.
7
prompt, type
prompt, type
and press <Enter>.
cd\
and then press <Enter>.
cd\win98\suspend
and press <Enter>.
Solving Problems49
Page 50
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
50Solving Problems
Page 51
3
SECTION 3
Adding Parts
Replacing the Palm Rests
Replacing the Display Cov er
Using the Advanced Port Replicator
Adding Memory
Replacing a Hard Drive
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Page 52
Replacing the Palm Rests
b
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down
1
the computer (see page 18).
If the computer is connected (docked) to an advanced port replicator
2
(APR), undock it (see page 59).
Keep the display open and tilt the computer back so that you can
3
access the bottom of the computer.
Slide and hold the latch release on the left side, and remove any device
4
installed in the modular bay.
Slide and hold the latch release on the right side, and remov e any
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
5
battery installed in the battery bay.
Locate the oran ge palm rest removal buttons. Place your thumbs on
6
the button and gently push to relea se the palm rests.
ottom of computer
52Adding Parts
Page 53
Remove the pa lm rests.
7
To replace the palm rests, insert the tabs on the inside edge of the
8
palm rest into the slots on the computer. Then press along the outside
edges of the palm rest until it snaps into place.
Repeat the process on each side.
palm rest
Adding Parts53
Page 54
Replacing the Display Cover
Gently slide your index fingers under the straight edge of the display
1
cover until the cover pops out.
Slide the display cover towards the back of th e computer.
2
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
To replace the display cover, insert the four tabs on the rounded end of
3
the cover into the slo ts on the top of the computer. Gently press the
cover along the straight edge until it snaps into place.
HINT: If you receive a
BIOS upgrade floppy disk
with your APR, use the
disk to upgrade your
computer before you use
the APR.
54Adding Parts
Gently press the Dell logo on the display cover to engage the final snap
4
tab.
Using the Advanced Port Replicator
The advanced port replicator (APR) integrates your computer into a
desktop environment. The APR includes a NIC to connect your computer
to a network.
NOTICE: Do not attempt to lift the computer while it is connected to the
APR. Doing so will damage the docking connector.
Page 55
Connecting External Devices to the APR
See the following illustrations for connector locations.
1
Connect the external devices to an electrical outlet, if applicable.
2
The I/O connectors on the back and side of the APR duplicate the primary
connectors on the back and side of your computer.
USB
connectors (2)
keyboard
connector
Connector IconConnector Description
mouse
connector
serial port
connector
NIC connector
parallel port
connector
Connect one or two USB devices, such as a
USB mouse.
AC adapter
connector
video
connector
HINT: If the cable
connector from the
external device has
thumbscrews, be sure to
tighten them to ensure a
proper connection.
Connect a PS/2-style keyboard or numeric
keypad.
Connect a PS/2-compatible mouse.
Connect a serial device, such as a serial
mouse or digital camera.
Connect a network int erface cable.
Adding Parts55
Page 56
Connector Icon
(continued)
Connector Description
Connect a parallel device, such as a printer.
Connect an external monit o r.
Connect the AC adapter.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
The audio line-out connector is on the side of the APR.
audio line-out connector
56Adding Parts
Page 57
APR Controls and Indicators
locked
unlocked
position
eject
position
drive access
light
power light
power button
undock request button
Docking the Computer
eject/locking
lever
position
docking
light
padlock
slot
security
lock slot
NOTICE: Before you initially connect your computer to the APR, you must
complete the operating system setup. When you see the Windows desktop on
your screen, the operating system setup is complete.
You dock your computer when you connect it to an APR. You must connect
the AC adapter to the APR before you dock and turn on the computer. The
AC adapter powers the APR and the computer at the same time. Any
battery installed in the computer charges while you use the APR.
NOTICE: Always use the Dell AC adapter that came with the APR. If you use
any other commercially available AC adapter—or the AC adapter from other
Dell computers—you may damage the APR or the computer.
Save and close all open files, exit all open programs, and shut down the
1
computer (see page 18).
Disconnect any external devices, and remove any PC Cards from the
2
computer.
Adding Parts57
Page 58
Connect the AC adapter to the connector on the APR, and connect
docki
3
the AC power cable to an electrical outlet.
Horizontally center the computer on the APR base, with the back of
4
the computer facing the APR docking connector.
Slide the computer toward the connector until you feel the grooves on
5
the bottom of the computer engage with the alignment rails.
NOTICE: If you attempt to push the computer all the way into the APR
without engaging the alignment rails, you may irreparably damage the docking
connector on the computer. If you have a monitor stand installed, you will not
be able to see the alignment rails or the docking connector.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
eject/locking lever
Gently push the computer forward until the docking connector is fully
6
ng connector
alignment rails (2)
engaged.
Slide the eject/locking lever towards the back of the APR to the locked
7
position.
58Adding Parts
Page 59
Undocking the Computer
NOTICE: If you do not ha ve a charg ed batt ery installed in the co mput er when
you undock the comput er, you may lose unsaved data.
NOTICE: If you do not use correct undocking proced ures, you may lose data
and the computer may n ot restart.
Save and close all open files and exit all open programs.
1
Perform one of the following procedures:
2
•Click the Start button, and then click Eject PC.
After a few seconds, the computer power light turns off.
•Press the undock request button on the APR.
After a few seconds, the green docking light turns off.
Slide the eject/locking lever on the left side of the APR to the eject
3
position to undock the computer.
eject/locking lever
docking light
undock request button
Adding Parts59
Page 60
Monitor Stand
HINT: Be sure that the
back legs on the monitor
stand engage the slots on
either side of the APR
base.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
NOTICE: The stand supports monit ors that weigh up to 45.3 kg (100 lb).
Heavier monitors may dama ge the stand, computer, and APR.
monitor
stand
APR
computer
APR base
60Adding Parts
Page 61
Adding Memory
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on
the system board. See page68 for information on the type of memory
supported by your computer.
Your computer has two memory module sockets. Dell memory modules
designed for your computer can be installed in either socket.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the “Safety
Instructions” at the front of this guide (see page 7).
NOTICE: Do not install or remove a memory module when the computer is
turned on, in standby mode, o r in hibernate mode.
1
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down
the computer (see page 18).
Remove all installed batteries and disconnect external devices.
2
Disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer.
3
Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the
4
computer.
Turn the computer over, loosen the screws, and lift up the memory
5
module cover.
memory module cover
screws (2)
HINT: Memory modules
purchased from Dell are
covered under your
computer warranty.
Adding Parts61
Page 62
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the computer, do not use tools to spread the
inner metal tabs of the socket when you are installing or removing a memory
module.
If you are replacing a memory module, you must remove the existing
6
module:
Use your fingernails to carefully spread apart the inner metal tabs
a
of the memory module socket.
The module should pop up.
Lift the memory module away from the socket.
b
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
securing
clip
memory
module
HINT: If the memory
module is not installed
properly, the computer
will not boot. No error
message indicates this
failure.
62Adding Parts
Install the memory module:
7
Align the notch in the module with the slot in the center of the
a
socket.
Slide the edge of the module firmly into the socket and rotate the
b
module down until you hear a click.
Page 63
Replace the cover and tighten the screws.
8
memory module cover
Insert the battery int o the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to
9
screws (2)
your computer and an electrical outlet.
Turn on the computer.
10
As the computer boots, it will detect the additional memory and
automatically update the system configuration information.
If your computer runs Windows 98, delete and recreate the hibernate
11
file to accommodate the new memory (see page 48).
Replacing a Hard Drive
NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile and must be handled carefully.
Even a slight bump can damage the drive.
CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when
the drive is hot,
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see page 18) before
removing or installing a hard dri ve. Do not remove the hard drive while the
computer is in standby mode or hibernate mode, or if the power light is lit.
do not touch
the metal hou sing o f the h ard driv e.
HINT: Dell does not
guarantee compatibility
or provide support for
hard drives from sources
other than Dell.
Adding Parts63
Page 64
HINT: You need the
bott
Operating System
install the Windows
operating system. You
also need the
Utilities
device drivers and utilities
on the new hard drive.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
CD to
Drivers and
CD to install the
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down
1
the computer (see page 18).
Remove all installed batteries, and disconnect the AC adapter cable
2
and any external devices from the computer.
Turn the computer over, and remove the hard drive screw.
3
om of computer
NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, protect the drive from
exposure to static electricity by storing it in protective antistatic packag ing.
screw
hard drive
64Adding Parts
Lift up the hard drive cover until you hear a click.
4
Slide the hard drive out of the computer.
5
Remove the new drive from its packaging.
6
Save the original packaging to use when storing or shipping the hard
drive.
NOTICE: Do not force the drive into the computer. If you experience some
resistance, use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place.
7
Slide the new drive into the computer:
Lift up the hard drive cover until you hear a click.
a
Push the hard drive until it is fully seated in the bay.
b
Press the hard drive cover down.
c
Page 65
Replace and tighten the screw you removed in step 3.
8
Install the Dell-provided operating system (see page 45).
9
Install the Dell-provided drivers and utilities (see page44).
10
Returning a Hard Drive to Dell
Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original foam p ackaging. Otherwise ,
the hard drive may be damaged in transit.
hard drive
Adding Parts65
Page 66
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
66Adding Parts
Page 67
4
SECTION 4
Appendix
Specifications
Standard Settings
Contacting Dell
Regulatory Information
Warranty and Return Policy Information
Macrovision Product Notice
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Page 68
Specifications
Microproce sso r
®
Microprocessor typesIntel
Internal cache256 KB
External bus frequency100 MHz
Math coprocessorinternal to the microprocessor
Mobile Pentium® III
Intel Mobile Celeron™
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
System Information
System chip setIntel Mobile 440BX PCI
Data bus width64 bits
DRAM bus width64 bits
Microprocessor address bus width32 bits
PC Card
CardBus contro l le rTexas Inst r ume nt s PC I 14 20 CardBus
controller
PC Card connectorstwo (supports two Type I or Type II cards or
one TypeIII card)
Cards suppo r te d3.3 V and 5 V
PC Card connector size68 pins
Data width (maximum)PCMCIA 16 bits
Memory module capacities and type 64, 128, and 256 MB
Memory type3.3-V SODIMM
Standard memoryone 64-MB memory module
Page 69
Memory
Maximum memory512 MB
Memory access time: clock speed100 MHz
Ports and Connectors
Serial (DTE)9-pin connector; 16550-compatible, 16-byte
Parallel25-hole connector; unidirectional,
Video15-hole co nnector
Audiomicrophone connector, headphone/speakers
S-video/TV-out7-pin mini-DIN connector (an S-video to
PS/2 keyboard/mouse6-pin mini-DIN connector
USBone 4-pin USB-compliant connector
Infraredsensor compatible with IrDA Standard 1.1
Docking200 pins for the advanced port replicator
(continued)
buffer connector
bidirectional, or ECP
connector
composite video adapter included with the
computer)
(Fast IR) and IrDA Standard 1.0 (Slow IR)
Video
Video type128-bit hardware accelerated
Data bus2X AGP
Video controllerATI Mobility M3
Video memory8 MB
LCD interfaceLVDS
TV supportNTSC or PAL in S-video and composite
Height214.3 mm (8.4 inches)
Width285.7 mm (11.3 inches)
Diagonal357.1 mm (14.1 inches)
Maximum resolution1024 x 768
Response time (typical)20-ms rise (maximum),
50-ms fall (maximum)
Operating angle0° (closed) to 180
°
Viewing angle:
Horizontal
Vertical+ 15°, – 30
45
±
°
°
Dot pitch0.28 mm
Page 71
Display
Luminance120 nits
Power consumption:
Controlsbrightness c an be co ntrolled through key
Keyboard
Number of keys87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe); 90
Key travel2.7 mm ± 0.3 to 0.4 mm (0.11 in ch ± 0.016
Key spacing19.05 mm ± 0.3 mm (0.75 inch ± 0.012 inch)
LayoutQWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji
Touch Pad
InterfacePS/2 compatible
X/Y position resolution
(graphics table mode)240 cpi
(continued)
Pa nel (typical)1.0 W
Backlight3.4 W
combinations
(Japan)
inch)
Size:
Thickness2.00 mm (0.08 inch) at highe st component
Width64.88 mm (2.55-inch) sensor-active area
Height48.88-mm (1.92-inch) rectangle
Weight6.5 g (0.23 ounce)
Power:
Supply voltage5 V ± 0.5 VDC
Supply current25 mA (maximum operating for track stick
and touch pad combined)
ESDin accordance with IEC-801-2
Appendix71
Page 72
Track St ick
InterfacePS/2 compatible
X/Y position resolution
(graphics table mode)240 counts/sec @ 100 gf
Sizeprotrudes 0.5 mm higher that surrounding
keycaps
Power:
Supply voltage5 V ± 0.5 VDC
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Supply current25 mA (maximum operating for track stick
and touch pad combined)
ESDin accordance with IEC-801-2
Battery
Ty pe4-cell or 8-cell smart lith ium ion
Dimensions:
Depth88.5 mm (3.48 inches)
Height21.5 mm (0.83 inch )
Width139.0 mm (5.47 inches)
Weight0.39 kg (0.87 lb) (8 cell)
Life span (approximate)500 discharge/charge cycl es
0
72Appendix
Temperature range:
Charge0°to 35°C(32°to 95°F) (8 cell)
0°to 40°C(32°to 104°F) (4 cell)
Storage–40° to 65°C (–4° to 140°F)
Page 73
AC Adapter
Input voltage90 to 264 VAC
Input current (maximum)1.7 A
Input frequency47 to 63 Hz
Output current4.5 A (maximum at 4-second pulse);
3.51 A (continuous)
Output power70 W
Rated output voltage19.5 VDC
Dimensions:
Height27.94 mm (1.1 inches)
Width58.42 mm (2.3 inches)
Depth133.35 mm (5.25 inches)
Weight (with cables)0.4 kg (0.9 lb)
Temperature range:
Operating0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage–40° to 65°C (–40° to 140°F)
Environmental (Computer)
Temperature range:
Operating0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F)
Storage–40° to 65°C (–104° to 140°F)
Relative humidity (maximum):
Operating10% to 90% (noncondensing)
Storage5% to 95% (noncondensing)
Maximum vibration:
Operating0.9 GRMS using a random-vibration
spectrum that si mulates user env ir onment
Storage1.3 GRMS using a random-vibration
spectrum that si mulates air/truck shipment
Appendix73
Page 74
Environmental (Computer)
Maximum shock:
Operating152. 4 cm/sec (60 inches/sec) (equal to a
Storage203.2 cm/sec (80 inches/sec) (equal to a
Altitude:
Operating–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)
Storage–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
(continued)
half-sine pulse width of 2 ms)
half-sine pulse width of 2 ms)
Standard Settings
The system setup program contains the standard settings for your
computer.
NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user, don’t change the settings
for this program. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly.
HINT: T o see information
about a specific item,
highlight the item and
refer to the
the screen.
74Appendix
Help
area on
System Setup Pages
The system setup pages display the current setup information and settings
for your computer . You can change settings that appear as white type on the
screen.
•Page 1 displays system information.
•Page 2 displays boot configuration and dock configuration settings.
•Page 6 displays system security and hard drive password settings.
Page 75
Viewing the System Setup Pages
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
1
When the Dell logo appears, press <F2> immediately.
2
If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait
until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer
(see page 18) and try again.
Contacting Dell
When you need to contact Dell, use the telephone numbers, codes, and
electronic addresses provided in the following table. If you need assistance
in determining which codes to use, contact a local or an international
operator.
Contact Numbers and Addresses
Country (Ci ty)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Australia (Sydney)
International Access Code:
Country Code:
City Code:
61
2
0011
Department Name or Service Area ,
Website and E-mail Address
Home and Small Business1-300-65-55-33
Government and Businesstoll free: 1-800-633-559
Preferred Accounts Division (PAD)toll free: 1-800-060-889
Customer Caretoll free: 1-800-819-339
Corporate Salestoll f ree: 1-800-808-385
Transaction Salestoll free: 1-800-808-312
Faxtoll free: 1-800-818-341
HINT: Toll-free numbers
are for use within the
country for which they are
listed.
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll Free Numbers
Appendix75
Page 76
Country (Ci ty)
International Access Code
Country Code
Department Name or Service Area ,
Website and E-mail Address
Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll Free Numbers
City Code
Austria (Vienna)
International Access Code:
Country Code:
City Code:
43
1
Home/Small Business Sale s01 795 67602
Home/Small Business Fax01795 67605
Customer Technical Support (Return Material
Authorization Numbers)
Customer Technical Support (Home sales
purchased via
Customer Service (Credit Return Authorization
Numbers)
National Accounts
[have your account number handy], medical institutions, or value-added resellers
[VARs]):
Customer Service and Technical Support (Return
Material Authorization Numbers)
Public Americas International
[local, state, or federal] or educational institutions):
Customer Service and Technical Support (Return
Material Authorization Numbers)
Dell Salestoll free: 1 -800-289-3355
Spare Parts Salestoll free: 1-800-357-3355
DellWare™toll free: 1-800-753-7201
Fee-Based Technical Supporttoll free: 1-800-433-9005
Sales (Catalogs)toll free: 1-800-426-5150
Faxtoll free: 1-800-727-8320
TechFaxtoll free: 1-800-950-1329
Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or
Speech-Impaired
Switchboard512 338-4400
Dellnet Technical Supporttoll free: 1-877-Dellnet
http://www.dell.com
(systems purchased by established Dell national accounts
(systems purchased by governmental agencies
(for portable and desktop computers):
)
Local Numbers, and
toll free: 1-800-624-9896
toll free: 1-877-576-3355
toll free: 1-800-624-9897
toll free: 1-800-822-8965
toll free: 1-800-234-1490
or toll free: 1-800-879-3355
toll free: 1-877-DELLTTY
Area Codes,
Toll Free Numbers
(1-877-335-5889)
(1-877-335-5638)
Appendix87
Page 88
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
Call Dell to obtain an authorization number, and write it clearly and
1
prominently on the outside of the box.
Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the
2
return.
Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned
3
(power cables, CDs, guides, and so on) if the return is for credit.
Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent)
4
packing materials.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible
for insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during
shipment to Dell. Collect-on-delivery packages are not accepted.
Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused
at our receiving dock and returned to you.
Regulatory Information
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is any signal or emission, radiated in
free space or conducted along power or signal leads, that endangers the
functioning of a radio navigation or other safety service or seriously
degrades, obstructs, or repeatedly interrupts a licensed radio
communications service. Your Dell computer is designed to comply with
applicable regulations regarding EMI. Changes or modifications not
expressly approved by Dell could void the user’s authority t o operate the
equipment.
Additional regulatory information regarding y our computer can be found in
the Tell Me How help file. To open the file, click the Start button on the
Windows desktop, point to Dell Documents , and then click Tell Me How.
Battery Disposal
88Appendix
Your computer uses a lithium-ion battery a nd a nickel-metal hydride
(NiMH) coin-cell battery. For instructions about replacing the lithium-ion
battery in your computer, see the Tell Me How help file. To open the file,
click the Start button on the Windows desktop, point to Dell Documents,
and then click Tell Me How.
Page 89
The 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, the
procedure must be performed by an authorized service technician.
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.
NOM Information (Mexico Only)
The following information is provided on the device(s) described in this
document in compliance with the requirements of the official Mexican
standards (NOM):
Exporter:Dell Computer Corporation
One Dell Way
Round Rock, TX 78682
Importer:Dell Computer de México, S.A.de C.V.
Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11° Piso
Col. Lomas Altas
11950 México, D.F
Ship to:Dell Computer de México,
S.A. de C .V. al Cuidado de Kuehne & Nagel de
México S. de R.I.
Avenida S oles No. 55
Col. Peñon de los Baños
15520 México, D.F.
Supply voltage:100–240 VAC
Frequency:50–60 Hz
System input voltage:20 VDC, 3.5 A
Current consumption:1.5 A
Appendix89
Page 90
Información para NOM (únicamente para México)
La información siguiente se proporciona en el dispositivo o en los
dispositivos descritos en este documento, en cumplimiento con los
requisitos de la Norma Oficial Mexicana (NOM):
Exportador:Dell Computer Corporation
One Dell Way
Round Rock, TX 78682
Importador:Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V.
Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11° Piso
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Embarcar a:Dell Computer de México,
Tensión alimentación:100–240 VAC
Frecuencia:50–60 Hz
Voltaje de entrada del sistema:20 VDC, 3.5 A
Consumo de corriente:1.5 A
Col. Lomas Altas
11950 México, D.F
S.A. de C.V. al Cuidado de Kuehne & Nagel de
México S. de R.I.
Avenida Soles No. 55
Col. Peñon de los Baños
15520 México, D.F.
90Appendix
Warranty and Return Policy
Information
Dell Computer Corporation (“Dell”) manufactures its hardware products
from parts and components that ar e new or eq uivalent to new i n accordance
with industry-standard practices. For information about the Dell warranty
for your computer, see the Tell Me How help file. To open the file, click the
Start button on the Windows desktop, point to Dell Documents, and then
click Tell Me How.
Page 91
Macrovision Product Notice
The following product notice applies to the Macrovision Corporation
product that is included with the DVD-ROM drive:
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected
by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property
rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of
this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision
Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only
unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse
engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
Appendix91
Page 92
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
92Appendix
Page 93
Index
A
APR
connecting to a network, 22
docking the computer, 54
audio. See sound
B
BIOS, 74
C
CD drive
fixing problems, 37
CD-RW drive
fixing problems, 38
characters
unexpected, 36
computer
crashes, 40
error messages, 30
specifications, 68
turning off, 18
contact numbers, 75
crashes, 40
D
damaged computer
testing, 43
Dellnet, 14
display
fixing problems, 30
drives
fixing problems, 36
DVD dr iv e
fixing problems, 38
E
e-mail
accessing, 14
fixing problems, 42
sending and receiving, 14
error messages
start-up, 30
Windows, 39
extern al ke ybo ard
fixing problems, 36
F
finding solutions, 26
floppy drive
fixing problems, 36
H
hard drive
fixing problems, 38
preventing damage, 64
preventing data loss, 63
replacing, 63
returning to Dell, 6 5
troubleshooting, 38
help file
accessing, 28
hibernate file
create, 49
delete, 49
I
Internet
connecting to, 14
fixing problems, 41
K
keybo ard
fixing problems, 36
unexpected characters, 36
Index93
Page 94
M
memory
adding, 61
messages
start-up, 30
Windows, 39
modem
fixing problems, 34
modular bay
devices, 19
swapping devices (computer
off), 19
swapping devices (while
Windows is running), 21
N
network
fixing problems, 39
setting up the APR, 22
P
password
changing for Dellnet, 14
port replicator
connecting to a network, 22
docking the computer, 54