Dell 500m User Manual

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Dell™ Inspiron™ 500m

Owner’s Manual

Model PP05L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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Notes, Notices, and Cautions

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better

use of your co m puter.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicat es ei ther potent ia l damag e to hard ware 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.

Abbrev iati o ns and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Glossary in the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, click the Start button on the Microsoft

Windows User’s gui des, and then click T ell Me How .

XP desktop, click Help and Support, click User and system guides, click

___________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Tr a velL ite, Dell TrueMob ile, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, DellNet, and Latitude are trademarks of De ll Co mputer Corporation; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are re gist ered t radema rks of Intel Corpor atio n; Microsoft and Wi ndows are registered t rademarks of Microsoft Cor poration; Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetoot h SIG, Inc., and is used by D ell Computer C orporation und er license; EMC is a re gistered trademark of the EMC Corporation.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. D ell Computer Corporati on disclai ms any prop rietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Model PP05L

February 20 03 P/N 3Y647 Rev. A00

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Conten ts

CAUTION: Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

General Power Battery Air T ravel EMC Instructions

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When Using Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Ergonomic Computing Habits When Working Inside Your Computer Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge Battery Disp osal

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

1 A Tour of You r Com put er

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View Bottom View

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

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2 Setting Up Yo ur Co mpute r

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

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

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

Modem and Inter net Co nnection Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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E-Mail Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Transferring Information to a New Computer Setting Up a Pr inter

Printer Cable Connecting a Parallel Printer Connecting a USB Printer

Printer Problems

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

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

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Setting Up the Docki ng Device to Connect to a Network Power Prot ection Devices

Surge Pr otecto rs Line Conditioners Uninterruptible Power Supplies

Turning Off Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

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3 Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

Using a Batter y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Battery P erformance Checking the Battery Charge Charging the Battery Removing a B attery Installing a Battery Removing and Installing a Reserve Battery Storing a Battery

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

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4 Conten ts

Power Problems Abou t th e Modul e B a y

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Checking the Charge on the Second Battery

. . . . . . . . . . 51

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Removing and Installing Devices Whi le the Computer Is Turned Off

If the Device Screw Is Not Installed If the Dev ice Screw Is Installed

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

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Removing and Installing Devices Whi le the Computer Is Running

If the Device Screw Is Not Installed If the Dev ice Screw Is Installed

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

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4 Using the Keyboa rd and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Keyboard Shortcuts

System Functions Battery

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CD or DVD T ray Display Functions

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Radios (Including Wireless Networking and the Bluetooth™ Card)

Power Management Speaker Functions Microsoft

Customizing the T ouch Pad

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

External Keyboard Problems Unexpected Characters

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . 62

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5 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

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CD and DVD Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

If you ca n not play a CD or DVD If you ca n not ejec t th e CD, C D-RW, or DVD d rive tray If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound If the CD-RW drive stops writing

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

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Sound and Speaker Problems

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

If you have a problem with integrated speakers If you have a problem with external speakers

Copying CDs

Using Easy CD Creator Basic

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Using Blank CD-R Discs o r Blank CD-RW Discs Helpful Tips How to Copy a CD

Connecting a Television to the Computer

S-Video Connection Composite Video Connection

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

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

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Enabling the Display Settings for a Television

6 Settin g Up a Home and O ffice Net work

Connecting to a Network Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Network Setup Wizard

Network Problems

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

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7 Solving Pr oblem s

Finding Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Accessing Hel p

Error Messa ges

6 Conten ts

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

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Video and Display Probl ems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

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Scanner Prob lems Drive Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

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

If you ca n not save a f ile to a flo p p y drive If you have pro blems with a hard drive

PC Card Proble ms

General Program Problems

A program crashes A program st ops responding Err or m essages app e ar

If Your Computer Gets Wet

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

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If You Drop or Dama ge Your Comp uter

Resolvi ng Other T echnical Problems

Drivers

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

What Is a Driver? Identifyin g Drivers

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

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Reinstalli ng Dr ivers and Utilities

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

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Manually Reinstalling Driver s f or Windows XP

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Using System Resto re

Creating a Restore Point

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

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Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State Undoing the Last System Restore

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Resolving Software and H a rdware Incompat ibilities

. . . . . . 98

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Contents 7

Page 8

Reinst alling Microsoft® Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Before You Reinstall Re installing Windows XP

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Reinstalling Dr ivers and Software

8 Adding a nd Replacin g Parts

Adding Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

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

Adding a Mini PCI Card

Replacing the Hard Drive

9 Appendix

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Standard Settings

Viewing the System Setup Screens System Setup Screens Commonly Used Options

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

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

Contacting Dell

Regulatory Notices

NOM Information (Mexic o Only)

Limited Warranties and Return Policy

Limited Warranty for th e U.S. "Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (U.S. Only) Limited Warranty Terms for Canada "Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (Canada Only) Dell Software and Peripherals (Canada Only)

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

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8 Conten ts

Page 9

One-Year End-User Manufacture r Guarantee (Latin America and the Caribbean Only)

Warranty Statement for Pentium® and

Intel

Celeron

Proces so rs Only (U.S. and Canada Only) . . . . . . . 158

. . . . . . . . . . . . 156

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Contents 9

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10 Content s

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CAUTION: Safety Instructions

Use the following safety guidelines to help ensur e y our own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage.

General

• Do not attempt to service the compute r yours e lf unle ss you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instructions closely.

• If you use an extension power cable with your A C adapte r, ensure that the total ampere rating of the products plugged in to the extension power cable does not exceed the ampere rating of the extension cable.

• 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.

• Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a carrying case or a closed briefcase, while the computer is turned on. Restricting airflow can damage the compu t er or ca use a fire.

• 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.

• Place the AC adapter in a ventilat ed area, such as a desk top or on the floor, when you use it to run the computer or to charge the batter y. Do not cover the AC adapte r with papers or other items that w ill reduce cooling; also, do not use the AC adapter inside a carrying case.

• The AC adapter may become hot during normal operation of your computer. Use care when handling the adapter during or immediately after operation.

• Do not allow your portable computer to operate with the base resting directly on exposed skin for extended periods of time. The surface temperature of the base will rise during normal operation (particularly when AC power is present). Allowing sustained contact with exposed skin can cause discomfort or, eventually, a burn.

• Do not use your computer in a wet environment, for example, near a bath tub, sink, or swimming pool or in a wet basement

• If your computer includes an integrated or optional (PC Card) modem, disconnect the modem cable if an electrical storm is approaching to avoid the remote risk of electric shock from li gh tn ing via the tel eph o n e line.

CAUTION: S afety Instr u ction s 11

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CAUTION: Safety 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. Do not use your computer during an electrical storm unless all cables have been disconnected and the computer is operating on battery power.

• 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 FCCcompliant RJ-11 modular plug.

• Before you open the memory module/Mini PCI card/modem cover on the bottom of your computer , disconnect all cables from their electrical outlets and disconnect the telephone cable.

• If your computer has both a modem RJ-11 connector and a network RJ-45 connector, which look alike, make sure you insert the telephone cable into the RJ-11 connector, not the RJ-45 connector.

• PC Cards may become very warm during normal operation. Use care when removing PC Cards after their continuous operation.

• 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.

(continued)

Power

• Use only the Dell-provided AC adapter approved for use with this computer. Use of another AC adapter may cause a fire or explosion.

• Before you connect the computer to an electrical outlet, check the AC adapter voltage rating to ensure that the required voltage and frequency match the available power source.

• To remove the computer from all power sources, turn the computer off, disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet, and remove any battery installed in the battery bay or module bay.

• To help prevent electric sho ck, plug the AC adapter and devi ce power cabl es into prop erly grounded power sources. These power cables may be equipped with 3-prong plugs to provide an earth grounding connection. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from the power cable plug. If you use a power extension cable, use the appropriate type, 2-prong or 3-prong, to mate with the AC adapter power cable.

12 CAUTION: Safety Instructions

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CAUTION: Safety Instructions

• Be sure that nothing res ts on your AC adapter’s power cable and that the cable is not located where it can be tripped over or stepped on.

• If you are using a multiple-outlet power strip, use caution when plugging the AC adapter’s power cable into the power strip. Some power strips may allow you to insert the plug incorrectly. Incorrect insertion of the power plug could result in permanent damage to your computer, as well as risk of electric shock and/or fire. Ensure that the ground prong of the power plug is inserted into the mating ground contact of the power strip.

(continued)

Battery

• Use only Dell™ battery modules that are approved for use with this computer. Use of other types may increase the risk of fire or explosion.

• Do not carry a battery pack in your pocket, purse, or other container where metal objects (such as car keys or paper clips) could sh or t-c ircuit the battery terminals. The resulting excessive current flow can cause extremely high temperatures and may result in damage to the battery pack or cause fire or burns.

• The battery poses a burn hazard if you handle it improperly. Do not disassemble it. Handle a damaged or leaking battery pack with extreme care. If the battery is damaged, electrolyte may leak from the cells and may cause personal injury.

• Keep the battery away from children.

• Do not store or leave your computer or battery pack near a heat source such as a radiator, fireplace, stove, electric heater, or other heat-generating appliance or otherwise expose it to temperatures in excess of 60ºC (140ºF). When heated to excessive temperatures, battery cells could explode or vent, posing a risk of fire.

• Do not dispose of your computer’s battery in a fire or with normal household waste. Battery cells may explode. Discard a used battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions or contact your local waste disposal agency for disposal instructions. Dispose of a spent or damaged battery promptly.

CAUTION: S afety Instr u ction s 13

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CAUTION: Safety Instructions

(continued)

Air Travel

• Certain Federal Aviation Administration regulations and/or airline-specific restrictions may apply to the operation of your Dell computer while you are on board an aircraft. For example, such regulations/restrictions may prohibit the use of any personal electronic device (PED) that has the capacity for intentional transmission of radio frequency or other electromagnetic signals while on an aircraft.

– In order to best comply with all such restrictions, if your Dell portable computer is

equipped with Dell TrueMobile™ or some other wireless communication device, please disable this device before you board the aircraft and follow all instructions provided by airline personnel with regard to such device.

– Additionally, the use of any PED, such as a portable computer, may be prohibited in

aircraft during certain criti cal phases of f light, for example , tak eoff and landin g. Some airlines may further define the critical f light phase as any time the aircraft is below 3050 m (10,000 ft). Pl e ase follow the airline’s specific ins tr uctions as to when the use of a PED is allowed.

EMC Instructions

Use shielded signal cables to ensure that you maintain the appropriate EMC classification for the intended environment. For parallel printers, a cable is available from Dell. If you prefer , you can order a cable from Dell at its worldwide website at www.dell.com.

Static electricity can harm electronic 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 a memory module. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer’s input/output pane l .

WARNING: Handling the cord on this product, or cords associated with acce sso r ies sold with this product, will exp ose you to le ad, a chemical known to the St ate of Cali fornia to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

14 CAUTION: Safety Instructions

Wash your hands after handling the cord.

Page 15

When Using Your Comput e r

Observe the following safe-handling guidelines to prevent damage to your computer:

• 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.

• 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 checke d 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 compu ter from low-tem perature conditions i nto a warmer environment

or from hig h -temperature conditio ns into a cool er environment, allow the computer to acclimate to room temp erature 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, k eep 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 compon e n ts with care. Hold a component such as a memory module b y its edges, not its pins.

• When preparing to r e move a memory module from the syste m board or disconnect a device from the computer, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter cable, remove any battery installed in the battery bay or mo dule bay, and then wait 5 seconds before proceeding to help avoid possible damage to the system board.

When Usi ng Your Com puter 15

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When Using Your Comput e r

• Clean the display with a soft, clean cloth and water. Apply the water to the cloth; then stroke the cloth across the display in one direction, moving from the top of the display to the bottom. Remove moisture from the display quickly and keep the display dry. Longterm exposure to moisture can damage the display. Do not use a commercial window cleaner to clean your display.

• If your co m pu t er get s we t or is dam a g e d, fo ll ow th e procedures descr ib e d in "I f Your Computer Gets Wet" on page 93 or "If You Drop or Damage Your Computer" on page94. If, after following these procedures, you confirm that your computer is not operating properly, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 127 for the appropriate contact information).

(continued)

Ergonomic Computing Habits

CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury. CAUTION: Vi ewi ng t he d isp lay or ex tern al m oni tor scr een for exte nde d pe ri ods of

time may result in eye strain.

F or comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in the Tell Me How help file when setting up and using your computer. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

This portable computer is not designed for continuous operation as office equipment. For extended use in an office, it is rec ommend ed that you connect an external ke yboard.

When Working Inside Your Computer

Before r emoving or installing memory modules, Mini PCI cards, or modems, perform the following steps in th e sequenc e ind ic a te d.

NOTICE: The only time you shoul d ever access the inside o f your computer is wh en you are

installing memory modules, a Mini PCI card, or a modem.

NOTICE: W ai t 5 secon ds after turni ng off the compu te r before dis conne ct ing a devi ce or rem ovi ng

a memory module, Min i P C I card, or modem to help prevent possi ble damage to the system board.

Shut down your computer and turn off any attached devices.

2 Disconnect your computer and devices from electrical outlets to reduce the potential for

personal injury or shock. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.

3 Remove the main battery from the battery bay and, if necessary, the second battery from

the module bay.

16 When Using Your Computer

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When Using Your Comput e r

4 Ground yourself by touching any unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer .

While you work, periodically touch the unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components.

(continued)

Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

Static electricity can harm electronic 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 a memory module. You can do so by touching any unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.

As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch any unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.

You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD):

• When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the component. 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.

• Handle all sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads.

Battery Disposal

Your computer uses an lithium-ion battery and a reserve battery. For instructions about replacing the l ithium-ion battery in your computer, refer to "Using a Battery" on page 44. The reserve 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 deposi t si te .

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18 When Using Your Computer

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SECTION 1

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View Left Side View Right Side View Back View Bottom View

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Front View

display

keyboard status lights

power butto n

device status lights

keyboard

touch pad buttons

speaker

display latch

DISPLAY — For more info rm a ti o n abo u t yo u r d is p l ay, see the Tel l Me Ho w help file. To access the

help file, see "Accessin g H elp" on page 86.

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

mode. For more information about p o w er managemen t, see the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see "Accessi n g Help" on page 86.

NOTICE: To avoid losing dat a, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft

operating system shutdown (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 42) rather than by pressi ng the power button.

If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer turn s o ff completely (which may take several seconds).

speaker

touch pad

Windows®

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DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in a power manag emen t mode.

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while

the light is flashing.

Tur ns on steadil y or blinks to indic ate ba tter y charge status . Turns on when the Bluetooth™ card is enabled. To enable or disable the

Bluetooth card, press

If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the light operates as follows:

– Solid green: The battery is charging. – Flashi n g green: Th e b a tt er y is a l mo s t f ul l y ch a rged.

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If the computer is running on a battery, the light operates as follows:

– Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off). – Flashing orange: The battery charge is low. – Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low .

KEYBOARD — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Wi ndows logo key . F or

information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Us in g the Key b oard and Tou ch Pad" on page 59.

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse. See "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" on

page 59 for more i n f o rm a t io n .

SPEAKERS — T o adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, use the volume-control keyboard

shortc uts. For more info rm a t io n , see "Us in g th e Ke ybo a rd and Touch Pad" on page 59.

DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed. TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Using the Keyboard and

Touch Pad" on page 59 for more in formation.

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

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The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

Left Side View

PC Card slot

security cable slot

infrared sensor

har d dr i v e

air vents (2 )

AIR VENTS — T he computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which

prevents the computer from overheating.

NOTE: The comput er tu rns on t he f an whe n the c omp uter g et s hot . Fa n no ise is normal a nd d oes

not indicate a proble m w ith the fa n o r th e co m p uter.

CAUTION: D o n o t b lo c k, push obj ec ts in to , o r a llo w d u st to accum ul at e in th e air

vents . Do no t s tor e yo ur D ell™ com pu ter in a low - air fl ow en vir on men t, su ch a s a closed b rief case, while it is ru nning . Restr ictin g th e ai rfl ow c an dama ge the computer or cause a fire.

audio conn ectors (2)

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PC CARD SLOT — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see"Accessing Help" on page 86.

INFRARED SENSOR — Lets you transfer files from your computer to another infrared-compatible

device wi thout using cable connections. When you receive your computer, the sensor is disabled. You can use the system setup program to

enable the sensor. For information on transferring data, see the infrared device documentation and the Windows Help and Support Center. To access help, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

AUDIO CONNECTORS

HARD

DR IVE — Stores software and data.

SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attac h a comm ercia lly a vailabl e an titheft dev ic e to the

compu ter. For more inf ormation, see the ins truct ions in c luded with the device.

NOTICE: Before you bu y an antitheft device , ensure that it will work wi th the security cable

slot.

24 A To ur of Your Compute r

Attach a microphone to the connector.

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

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Righ t Side View

securit y cable slot module bay

device latch release

SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attac h a comm ercia lly a vailabl e an tith eft devic e to the

compu ter. For more inf ormation, see the ins truct ions in c luded with the device.

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

slot.

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MODULE BA Y — You can install devices such as an optical drive or a Dell Trave lLite™ module in

the module bay. For more information, see "About the Module Bay" on page 51.

DEVICE LATCH RELEASE — Releases the module bay device. See "About the Module Bay" on

page 51 for instruc tio ns.

Back View

NOTICE: To avoid damagin g the computer, wait 5 seconds after turnin g off the computer

before you disconnect an external device.

CAUTION: D o n o t b lo c k, push obj ec ts in to , o r a llo w d u st to accum ul at e in th e air

vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

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paralle l connect o r

netw ork conn ector (R J -45)

video co n necto r

serial connector

USB CONNECTORS

modem con n ector (RJ-11) (optional)

S-vide o TV-out connector

USB connectors (2)

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

air vents

AC adapter connector

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S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

Connects your com put er to a TV. F o r mor e in format ion, see "Connecting a Television to the Computer" on page 73.

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ- 11) (OPTI ONAL)

If you ordered the optional internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

For information on using the modem, see the online modem docu menta tion sup plied wi th your c omputer. See "Accessing Help" on page86.

NETWORK CONNECT OR (RJ-45)

NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector . To avoid

damaging the computer, do not plug a telepho ne line into the network conne ctor.

Connects the computer to a netwo rk. The green and yellow lights next to the connect or in dica te activi ty fo r both wired and wireless network communications.

For information on usi ng the netw ork ada pter, see the device user’s guide supplied with your computer. See "Accessing Help" on page 86.

PARALLEL CONNECTOR

VIDEO

CONNECTOR

28 A To ur of Your Compute r

Connects a parallel device, such as a printer.

Connects an external mon itor. Fo r more info rma tion , see the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see "Acces s ing Help" on page86.

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SERIAL CONNECTOR

Connects serial devices, such as a mouse or handheld device.

AC AD APTER CONNECTOR — Attach an AC adapter to the computer.

The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can con nect the AC adapter with your computer turned eith er on or off.

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

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

NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable f rom the computer, grasp the co nnector,

not the cable itself, and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable.

AIR VENTS — T he computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which

prevents the computer from overheating.

NOTE: The comput er tu rns on t he f an whe n the c omp uter g et s hot . Fa n no ise is normal a nd d oes

not indicate a proble m w ith the fa n o r th e co m p uter.

CAUTION: D o n o t b lo c k, push obj ec ts in to , o r a llo w d u st to accum ul at e in th e air

vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase , wh ile it is runni ng. Restric ting th e air flow ca n dam age t he c omp uter or cause a fire.

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Bottom View

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hard drive

Mini PCI card cover

fan

memory module cover

battery-bay latch release

battery cha rge gauge

battery

docking device slot

MEMOR Y MODULE COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the memory module(s). See

"Adding Memory" o n page 106.

BATTERY-BAY LATCH REL EASE — Relea ses the battery. See "Using a Battery" on page 44 for

instructions.

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE — Provides information on the battery charge. See "Using a Battery" on

page 44.

BATTERY — When a battery is instal led, you can use the computer withou t conn ec ting the

computer to an electrical outlet. See "Using a Battery" on page 44.

DOCKING DE VICE SLOT — Lets you attach your computer to a docking device. See the

documentation that came with your docking device for additional information.

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FAN — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the

computer from overheating.

NOTE: The comput er tu rns on t he f an whe n the c omp uter g et s hot . Fa n no ise is normal a nd d oes

not indicate a proble m w ith the fa n o r th e co m p uter.

CAUTION: D o n o t b lo c k, push obj ec ts in to , o r a llo w d u st to accum ul at e in th e air

vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase , wh ile it is runni ng. Restric ting th e air flow ca n dam age t he c omp uter or cause a fire.

INI PCI CARD COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the Mini PCI card. See

"Addin g a M in i PCI C ard " on p a ge 108.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

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SECTION 2

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet Modem and Internet Connection Problems E-Mail Problems Transferring Information to a New Computer Setting Up a Printer Printer Problems Setting Up the Docking Device to Connect to a Network Power Protection Devi ces Turning Off Your Computer

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Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by count ry.

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 co nne ctor o n 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 Windows

desktop.

3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

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 con ne ction 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 connectio n to select, contact your ISP.

Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connec t to the Inte rnet?, a nd

then click Next.

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

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.

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only. Connecting the modem to

a digital telephone netwo rk damages the modem.

NOTICE: Modem and networ k co nnectors look similar. Do not plug a tele phone line into the

network co nnector.

NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your mod em is functioning

properly. If you are sure tha t your mode m is worki ng prop erly and yo u stil l experi en ce prob lem s, contact yo ur ISP.

HECK THE TE LEPHONE WALL JACK — Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and

connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone. Ensure that you have touchtone telephone service. Try connecting the modem to a different telephone wall jack.

Slow connection speeds can be caused by telephone noise as well as by telephone line or network conditio ns. Contact your tel ephone company o r network administ rator for more information.

ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEP HONE 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 line to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack.

HECK THE CO NNECT ION — Verify that the telephone line is connected to the modem.

HECK THE TE LEPHONE LINE — Try using a d ifferent telephone line. If you a re using a line that

is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.

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IRREGULAR DI AL TONE —If you have voice mail service, you might hear an irregular dial tone when you have messages. Contac t your t e lephone company for instructions on r estoring a dial tone.

URN OF F CA LL WA ITING (CATCH-PH ONE)—S ee yo u r t el ep h o ne directory for in st ru ction s on

deactivating this fea ture. The n adjus t the dial-u p networ ki ng con necti on proper ties.

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Pr in ters a nd Othe r Hardw are , cl ic k Phon e and Mo dem Op tio ns , click the Dialing Rules tab,

and then click Edit....

3 In the Edit Location window, ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and then select

the proper code as listed in your telephone directory.

4 Click Apply and click OK. 5 Close the Phone and Modems Options window. 6 Close the Control Panel window.

ERIFY TH AT TH E MODEM IS C OMMUNICA TING WITH WINDOWS —

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware and click Phone and Modem Options. 3 Click the Modems tab. 4 Click the COM port for your modem. 5 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.

E-Mail Problems

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — With th e Out loo k Ex pre ss e -mai l

program open, click File. If Work Offline has a check mark next to it, click the check mark to remove it and connect to the Internet.

Transferring Information to a New Computer

The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings T ransfer 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.

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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 Transfer Wizard.

2 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next . 3 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next. 4 On the Do you ha ve a Window s XP CD? s cr een, 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 Pe r form additional tasks . 3 Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings. 4 On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next. 5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next. 6 On the Select a tran s fe r meth od screen, click the transfer method you prefer. 7 On the What do you want to tr ansf e r ? screen, select the items you want to transfer

and click Next. After the information has been copied, the Comple t ing the Coll e ction 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 re ads the coll e cted 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.

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Setting Up a Printer

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, read the safety instructions on

page 11.

NOTICE: Complete th e operating system setup before you connec t a printer to the computer.

See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to:

• Obtain and instal l updated dr ivers.

• Connect the printer to the computer.

• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.

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• Contact the printer manufac turer for technical assistance.

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 (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page42).

NOTICE: For best results, use a 3- m (10-ft) or shorter parallel cable.

3 Attach the parall el printer cabl e to the paral lel connect or on the comput er and tighten

the two screws . Attach t he cable to the connecto r on the printe r and snap the two cli ps into the two notches.

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parall el connector o n computer

connector on printer

screws (2) parall el prin ter

cable

notches (2)

4 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer . If the Add New Hardware Wizard

clips (2)

windo w ap pe ar s, cl ick Cancel.

5 Install the printer drive r if nece ssary. See the documentation that came with your

printer.

Connecting a USB Printer

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

1 Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so. 2 Install the printer drive r if nece ssary. See the documentation that came with your

printer.

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3 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connect ors o n the computer and the printer.

The USB co n nectors fit only one w a y.

USB connector on computer

USB connect or

USB printer

on printer

cable

Printer Problems

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS — Ensure that the printer cable is properly

connected to the compu ter.

EST THE ELECTRI CAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electric al out le t is workin g by test ing it with

another device, such as a lamp.

NSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURN ED ON — See the documentation supplied with the

printer.

ERIFY TH AT WIN DOWS

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 model is listed, right-click the printer

icon.

5 Click Properties, and then click the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s):

setting is LPT1 (Printer Port).

EINSTALL THE PRIN TER DR IVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 96.

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RECOGNIZES TH E PRIN TER

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Setting Up the Docking Device to Connect to a Network

NOTE: A network adapter is also referred to as a net w ork interface contr oller (NIC). NOTICE: Do not instal l a network adapter o r a network adapter/modem combination PC Card

until you complete the docking device setup.

NOTICE: To prevent serious operating system problems, do not connect your computer to a

docking device until the Windows operating system setup on the computer is co m p lete.

A docking device allows you to more fully integrate your portable computer into a desktop environment.

For instructions and details o n setting up a do cki ng device, re fer to the docume ntation that came pack a g e d wi th th e de vice .

Pow e r Pr otec t ion Devices

Several devices are avai lab le to protect ag ainst power fluctuations and failures:

•Surge protectors

• Line con dit ioners

• Uninterruptib le power suppli e s (U PS)

Surge Protectors

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

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

interruption s caused by n earby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in your a rea, disconn ect the teleph on e line fr om th e te lepho ne wall jac k and disc onne ct y our co mput er fr om the el ec tric al outlet.

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

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NOTICE: Not all surge pro tectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the network

cable from the network wall jack during electrical storms.

Line Conditioners

NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.

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

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

NOTICE: Loss of power whil e data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or

file damage.

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NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only yo ur computer to a UPS.

Connect ot her devices, such as a printer, to a separate po wer strip that provides surge protection.

A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interrupti ons. UPS devices contain a battery that provides temporary power to connected devices when AC power is interrupted. The battery charges while AC power is available. See the UPS manufacturer documentation for information on batte ry op erating time and to ensure that the device is appro ve d by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Turning Off Your Computer

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft® Windows

operating system shutdo wn, as described next, rather than by pressing the po wer button.

NOTE: As an alternative to turni ng off your computer, you can set your computer to enter

standby or hi bernate mode. F or information about these power co nservation modes, see the

Me How

1 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start butt on , a nd t he n

help file . To access th e he l p f ile , se e "Accessi ng He l p" on pa ge 86.

click Turn Off Computer.

2 In the Turn off computer wi nd ow, click Turn off.

The computer turns off after the shutdown process finishes.

Tell

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SECTION 3

Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

Using a Battery Pow er Problems About the Module Bay Re mov ing and Inst alling Devices While the Computer Is

Turned Off

Re mov ing and Inst alling Devices While the Computer Is

Running

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Using a Battery

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, read the safety instructions on

on page 11.

Battery Performance

NOTE: Batteries for portable computers are covered only during the initial one-year period of

the limited warranty for your computer. For more information about th e Dell warranty for your computer, see "Limited Warranties and Return Policy" on page 105.

For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. Use a battery to run the computer when it is not connected to an electrical outlet. One battery is supplied as standard equipment i n the batter y bay.

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. With average usage, you may expect from 3 to 4 hours from a single, fully charged battery. You can install an optional second battery in the module ba y to significantly increas e operating time. For more information about the second battery, see "About the Module Bay" on page 51.

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

to a CD.

Operati n g t im e is sig n if ic a n tly reduced wh en yo u pe rfo rm o pe ra t io n s inc lu ding, but n o t limited to , the following:

• Using optical drives, especially DVD and CD-RW drives

• Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, or USB devices

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

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode

You can check the battery charge on the bottom of the computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the bat te r y charge is low .

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

explosi on. Repl ac e th e ba tt er y o nly w ith a com pati bl e ba tt er y pu rch ase d fro m Dell. Th e lit hium -ion b att ery is desig ned to w ork w ith your Dell™ com pu ter. Do not us e a batt er y f rom o the r co mpu te rs w ith yo ur c om put er.

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CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery

no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or environmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See the battery disposal instruc tions i n "B atte ry Disp osal " on p age 1 7.

CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn.

Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatur es above 65° C ( 14 9°F) . Ke ep t he b a tter y a w ay f rom ch ildr en . Ha ndl e dam age d o r leakin g b att erie s w it h ext rem e ca re. Da ma ged bat te ries ma y le ak a n d ca use person al inj ur y o r e qui pm en t da mag e.

Checking the Battery Charge

The Dell QuickSet batte r y meter, Microsoft® Windows® power meter window and icon, the batter y cha r ge gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge.

For more informatio n about checking the charge on the second batte r y, see "About the Module Bay" on page 51.

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter

Press to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter screen displays status , charge level, and charge completion time for the

primary and secondary batteries in your computer.

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

to a CD.

The following icons appear in the Battery Meter scr een:

• The computer is running on battery power.

• The battery is discharging or idle.

• The computer is connected to an electric al outl et and runnin g on AC power.

• The battery is charging.

• The computer is connected to an electric al outl et and runnin g on AC power.

• The battery is discharging, idle, or charging.

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

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Microsoft Windows Power Meter

The Windows power meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the power meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar. For more information on the Power Meter tab, see the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

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

Charge Gauge

Pr ess the status button on the battery char ge gauge to illuminate the charge-le ve l l ights. Each light r epresents approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if the battery has 80 percent of i ts charge remaining , four o f the l ig h ts are on. If no lights appear, the battery has no charge.

Low-Battery Warning

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

warning. Then co nnect the computer to an electrical out let, or install a second battery in the module bay. If the battery runs comple tely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.

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A low-battery warning occurs when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer beeps once, indicating that minimal battery operating time remains. During that time, the speaker beeps periodically. If two batteries are installed, the low-battery warning means that the combined charge of both batteries is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer enters hibernate mode when the battery charge is at a critically low level. For more information on low-battery alarms, see the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

Charging the Battery

NOTE: The AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately 1 hour with

the computer turned off. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer as long as yo u like. The battery internal cir cuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.

When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the computer checks the battery charge and temperature. If necessary, the AC adapter then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge.

If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot environment, the battery may not charge when you connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and allow the computer and the battery to cool to room temperature. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue charging the battery.

For more information on resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 50.

Removing a Battery

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, read the safety instructions on

page 11.

For more information about removing the second battery, see "About the Module Bay" on page 51.

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer,

disconnect it from the electrical outlet, and disconnect the modem from the telephone wall jack.

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NOTICE: If you choose to replace the battery with the computer in standby mode, you have up

to 90 seco nds t o comple te th e batt ery rep la cemen t b efore th e com pute r sh ut s down and l ose s an y unsa ve d data .

Ensure that the computer is turned off, disconnected from an electrical outlet, and disconnected from the telephone wall jack.

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

documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.

3 Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then

remove the battery from the bay.

Installing a Battery

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, read the safety instructions on

page 11.

Slide the battery into the bay unti l th e lat ch rel e ase clicks. For more information about installing the second battery, see "About the Module Bay" on

page 51.

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Removing and Installing a Reserve Battery

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, read the safety instructions on

page 11.

Remove the battery (see page 4 7).

2 Remove the reserve battery cover.

3 Pull the r e serve battery out of its compartment, and disconnect the reserve battery

cable from the connector.

reserve battery cable

connector

reserve ba t t e r y

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4 Connect the reserve battery cable to the connector in the reserve battery

compartment.

5 Place the reserve battery in the compartment, and replace the reserve battery cover.

Storing a Battery

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

Power Problems

CHECK THE POWER LIGHT — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If

the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit standby mode. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer.

HARGE THE BATTERY — The battery charge may be depleted.

1 Reinstall the battery. 2 Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet. 3 Turn on the computer.

CHECK THE BATTERY STATUS LIGHT — If the battery status light flashes orange or is a steady

orange, the battery charge is low or depleted. Connec t the compu ter to an electrica l outlet.

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If the battery status light flashes green and oran ge , the battery is too hot to charge. Turn off the computer (see "T urning Off Your Computer" on page 42), disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperature.

If the battery status light rapid ly flash es orang e, the batt ery may be defecti ve. C on tac t Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 127).

EST THE ELECTRI CAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electric al out le t is workin g by tes ting it with

another device, such as a lamp.

HECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a

light, ensure that the light is on. Make sure that the AC adapter is a Dell AC adapter that is designed to work with your comput er.

ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTL ET — Bypass power

protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the compu ter turns on.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — T urn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen

lamps , o r other applia nc e s .

DJUS T THE POWER PROPERTIES — See the Tell Me H ow help file or search for the keyword

standby in the Help and Support Center. To access help, see "Accessing Help" on page86.

ESEAT TH E MEMORY MODULES — If the computer power light turns on but the display

remains blank, reseat the memory modules (see "Adding Memory" on page 106).

About the Module Bay

You can in stall devices su ch as a floppy drive, CD drive, CD-RW driv e, DVD drive, CD-RW/DVD drive, DVD+RW, second battery, or second hard drive in the module bay.

NOTE: You do not need to in stall the device screw unless yo u want to secure the module inside

the computer for security purposes.

Your Dell™ computer ships with an optical drive installed in the module bay. However, the device screw is not installed in the optical drive but pack aged separately. When you install your device in the module bay, you can install the device screw.

Checking the Charge on the Second Battery

Before you install a second bat te ry, press the stat us butto n o n the batter y charge gauge to illuminate the charge-level lights. Each light represents approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if the battery has 80 percent of its charge remaining, four of the lights are on. If no lights appear, the battery has no charge.

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status bu tton on the bat te ry charge gauge

second battery (bottom)

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, read the safety instructions on

page 11.

NOTE: If the device screw is not installed, you can remo ve and install devices while the

compute r is running and connected to a docking device (docked).

Your computer ships with an optical drive installed in the module bay. However, the device screw is not installed in the optical drive but packaged separately. When you install your device in the mo du le ba y, you can install th e de v i ce scr ew.

NOTE: You do not need to in stall the device screw unless yo u want to secure the module inside

the computer for security purposes.

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If the Device Screw Is Not Installed

NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, pl ace them in a safe, dry place when they are not

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

Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.

device latch release

2 Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.

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3 Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the

device latch release in so that it is flush with the computer.

If the Device Screw Is Installed

1 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut down the

computer.

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

documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.

NOTICE: To prevent dama ge to devices, pl ace them in a safe, dry place when they are not

installed in the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or pl acing heavy objec ts on top of them.

Close the display and turn the computer over.

4 Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the device screw from the bottom of the

computer.

5 Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.

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6 Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.

NOTICE: Insert devices into the module bay before you dock and turn on the computer.

7 Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the

device latch release in so that it is flush with the computer.

8 Replace the device screw. 9 Turn on the computer.

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, read the safety instructions on

page 11.

NOTE: If the device screw is not installed, you can remo ve and install devices while the

compute r is running and connected to a docking device (docked).

NOTE: You do not need to in stall the device screw unless yo u want to secure the module inside

the computer for security purposes.

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If the Device Screw Is Not Installed

1 Double-click the Safel y Remove Hard wa re icon on the taskbar. 2 Click Stop and wai t f or the ope r a ting sy stem to co n firm th a t th e d evice h as stop p e d. 3 Click the device you want to eject.

NOTICE: To prevent dama ge to devices, pl ace them in a safe, dry place when they are not

installed in the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or pl acing heavy objec ts on top of them.

Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.

device latch release

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5 Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.

6 Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the

device latch rel ease in so that it i s flush with the computer. Windows XP automati cally recognizes the new device.

7 If necessary, enter your password to unlock your computer.

If the Device Screw Is Installed

1 Double-click the Safel y Remove Hard wa re icon on the taskbar. 2 Click the device you want to eject. 3 If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the

documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.

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NOTICE: To prevent dama ge to devices, pl ace them in a safe, dry place when they are not

installed in the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or pl acing heavy objec ts on top of them.

Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the device screw from the bottom of the computer.

device latch release

5 Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out. 6 Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.

7 Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the

device latch rel ease in so that it i s flush with the computer. Windows XP automati cally recognizes the new device.

8 If necessary, enter your password to unlock your computer.

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SECTION 4

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad Keyboard Shortcuts Customizing the Touch Pad Touch Pad or Mouse Problems External Keyboard Problems Unexpect ed C h aracters

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Numeric Keypad

NOTE: When you connect an ext ernal keyboard or ke ypad to the computer, the keypad is

disabled.

NOTE: You can change options for using the numeric keypad in the system setup program.

The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right side of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, press to enable the numeric keypad, and then hold

down and press the desired key.

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Keyboard Shortcuts

System Functions

Battery

Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter.

CD or DVD Tray

Ejects the tray out of the drive.

Display Functions

Opens the Wi ndows Task Manager window.

Enables and disables the numeric keypad.

Enables and disables the scroll lock.

Switches the video image to the next display in the following sequence: the integrated display only, the integrated display and an external CRT monitor simultaneously, an external CRT monitor only, the integrated display and an external DVI monitor simultaneously, and an external DVI monitor only.

Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

Decreases brightne ss on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

Radios (Including Wireless Networking and the Bluetooth™ Card)

Enables and disables radios, includi ng wireless networking and the Bluetooth ca rd.

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Power Management

Activates the power management mode of your choice. You can program this keyboard shortcut on the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window.

Speaker Functions

If no sound comes from the speakers, press and adjust the volume.

Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attache d.

Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attache d.

Enables and disables the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attache d.

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Minimizes all open windows.

Maximizes all windows.

T o adjust keyboar d operat ion, such as the charact er r epeat rate, open the Control Panel, and click Printers and Other Hardware.

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Runs Windows Explorer.

Opens the Run dialog box.

Opens the Search Re su l t s dialog box.

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

Opens the Sys tem Properties dialog box.

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

touch pad

touch pad buttons

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

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

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

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

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Customizing the Touch Pad

You can disable the touch pad or adjust their settings by using the Mouse Properties window.

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then double-click the Mouse icon. 2 On the Mouse Properties window:

•Click the Device Se lect tab to disable the touch pad.

•Click the Pointer tab to adjust touch pad settings.

3 Select the desired settings and click Apply.

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4 Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then clic k Printers and Other Hardware. 2 Click Mouse. 3 Try adjusting the settings.

O VERIFY TH AT THE PROBL EM IS WITH THE MO USE, CH ECK THE TOUCH PAD —

1 Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 42). 2 Di sconnect th e mo us e . 3 Turn on the computer. 4 At the Windows

If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.

EINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRI VER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Software" on page 103.

desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it.

External Keyboard Problems

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer"

on page 42). Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for damage. If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the

computer.

HECK THE EXT ERNA L KEYBOARD —

1 T urn off the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again. 2 Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot

routine.

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3 From the Windows

desk top, cl ick the Start button, point to All Programs, point to Accessories,

and click Notepad.

4 Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.

O VERIFY TH AT THE PROBL EM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD, CHECK THE

INTEGRATED KEYBOARD —

1 Turn off the computer. 2 Disconnect the external keyboard. 3 Turn on the computer. 4 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to All Programs, point to Accessories,

and click Notepad.

5 Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page127).

Unexpected Characters

NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integra ted keyboard rem a ins fully

functional.

ISABLE THE NUME RIC KE YPAD — Press to disable the numeric keypad if numbers

are displayed in st ead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

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SECTION 5

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs CD and DVD Problems Sound and Speaker Problems Copying CDs Connecting a Television to the Computer

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Using CDs and DVDs

For information about using CDs and DVDs in your computer , see the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

CD and DVD Problems

If you cannot play a CD or DVD

NOTE: Because of different worldwide file typ es, not all DVD title s work in all DVD drives.

High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. This noise does not indicate a defect with the drive or the CD.

ENSURE THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and

remove viruses. V iruses can som etimes pr event W indows from recog nizing the drive. Insert a bootabl e disk and restart the computer . Verify that the light is blinking, indicating normal operation.

RY ANOTHER DISC — Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original disc is

defective.

NSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED TO THE SPINDLE. DJUS T THE WINDOWS VO LUME CONTROL — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right

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

EINSTALL THE DRI VE —

1 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer. 2 Remove the drive. See "Using the Module Bay" in the Tell Me How help file for instructions. To

access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

3 Reinstall the drive. 4 Turn on the computer.

LEAN THE DRIVE OR DISC — See "Cleaning Your Co mputer " in the Tell Me How help file for

instructions. To access the help file, see "Accessi ng He lp" on page 86.

If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive tray

1 Ensure that the computer is shut down and turned off (see page 42). 2 Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive; push firmly

until the tray is partially ejected.

3 Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

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If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

• Ensure that the soun d i s no t caused by the program that is running.

• Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.

If the CD-RW drive stops writing

DISABLE STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BE FORE WRIT ING TO A CD-RW — Search f or the

keyword standby in the Help and Support Center. To access help, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

HANGE THE WR ITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE — See the help files for your CD creation

software.

XIT ALL OTHER OP EN PROGRAMS — Exiting all other open programs before writing to the

CD-RW may alleviate the problem.

Sound and Speaker Problems

If you have a problem with integrated speakers

ADJU ST THE WINDOWS® VO LUME CONTROL — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-

right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Adjust the volume, bas s, or treble contro ls to elimin ate dis tor tion .

EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRI VER — See "R ein s tall in g Drivers and Softwa re" on

page 103.

If you have a problem with external speakers

NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you

have been l istening to MP3 songs, make sure that yo u did not turn the playe r volume down or off.

HECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS — See the setup diagram supplied with the

speakers.

EST THE ELECTRI CAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electric al out le t is workin g by tes ting it with

another device, such as a lamp.

NSURE THAT THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the setup diagram supplied with the

speakers.

DJUS T THE WINDOWS VO LUME CONTROL — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right

corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.

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TEST THE SPEAKERS — Plug the speaker audio cable into the line-out connector on the

computer. Ensure that the headphone volume control is turned up. Play a music CD.

UN THE SP EAKER SELF-TEST — Some speaker systems have a self-test button on the

subwoofer. See the speaker documentation for self-test instructions.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — T urn off nearby fa ns, fluoresce nt lights, or halogen

lamps to check for interference.

EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRI VER — See "R ein s tall in g Driver s and Softwa re" on

page 103.

Copying CDs

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NOTE: T o "burn" a CD means to copy or cre ate your own cus to m CD. Ensure that you follow all

This section applies only to computers that have a CD- or DVD-recording device. The information in this section is based on the Roxio Easy CD Creator Basic

documentation that came with your computer. See "Using Easy CD Creator Basic" on page 71 for instructions on how to locate that documentation.

NOTE: The information in this section also applies to using Easy CD Creator Basic with a

DVD+RW or a DVD+R drive.

To burn CDs, you need to use CD-burner software. Roxio Easy CD Creator Basic is your computer's CD-burner software. The software includes the following project programs that enable you to record specialty CDs for different types of uses:

• DirectCD allows you to format a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc so that you can use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop data files to the CD-RW drive. You can use a DirectCD-formatted CD-RW disc like another hard drive on your computer because CD-RW discs are fully rewritable (CD-R discs can be used with DirectCD, but that media type has overwriting limitations—see "Using Blank CD-R Discs or Blan k CD-RW Discs" on p age 71 f o r re cording med i a d iffere n ces).

• MusicCD allows you to burn custom music CDs.

• DataCD allow s yo u to co py a varie ty of you r do c u me nt s, such as spreadshee t or accounting files, to a CD for permanent storage.

NOTE: Some music and game CDs are copy-protected. If you have a CD that cannot be copied,

you must use the original CD for everyday use.

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• Disc Copier allows you to make a backup copy of almost any type of CD. This program allows you to make a copy of a CD for everyday use so that you can archive and save the origina l copy. (D isc Copier is tit le d "CD C o pi e r" in so m e versions of Rox i o CD Creator Basic.)

All four project programs are available on the Easy CD Creator Basic Select a Project menu screen. To view the Select a Project menu screen, click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Roxio Ea sy CD Creator, and then click Project Selector.

Using Easy CD Creator Basic

See the Easy CD Creator Basic documentation for instructions on how to use the program, information about differ ent r ecor ding tec hniques, and CD media limit ations. The Easy CD Creator Basic documentation is located in the Help and Support Center (see "Accessing Help" on pag e 86). T h e do cum entatio n is a l so p ro v id e d on the Ro xio reinstallat io n CD, which is included with your computer. Each Easy CD Creator Basic project program also has thorough online help files.

Using Blank CD-R Discs or Blank CD-RW Discs

Your CD-RW drive writes t o two different t yp es of recording media — CD-R and CD-RW discs. Use b la n k CD -R ( C D- Recordable ) disk s to rec ord musi c or permanently st ore da ta files. After creating a CD-R disc, you cannot write to that disc again without changing your method of recording (see the Roxio documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RW (CD-ReWritable) discs when you want to write, erase, rewrite, and update your files onto CDs.

Helpful Tips

• Y ou must use the Easy CD Creator Basic project programs to copy and record all music and data CDs. You can use Windows Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW disc only after you first use Direc tCD to format the disc.

• You must use CD-R discs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RW discs do not play in most hom e or car stereos.

• If you want to copy files from the Internet or files from a floppy or Zip drive, copy those files to your hard drive first, and then burn your CD. Your CD-RW drive requires a steady stream of data to properly record. Direct Internet downloads, floppy drives, and Zip drives may not be able to provide a steady data stream to your CD-RW drive.

• Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software inst a ll ed.

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• Ensure that you set the sampling rate to at least 128 Kbps when you burn MP3 files to a CD. Otherwise, recording errors may occur.

• Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a 650-MB blank CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1 or 2 MB of the bla n k CD to fin alize t h e reco rd i n g .

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

• See the Roxio support website at support.roxio.com for additional helpful tips.

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How to Copy a CD

NOTE: If you have a DVD/CD-RW combo drive and you experience recording problems, first

check for available software patches on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and if necessa ry, the Roxio support website at support.roxio.com.

The procedure assumes that your computer is equipped with a single CD-RW drive (without an additional CD drive). If your computer is equipped with both types of drives, see the Roxio documentation for instructions on how to copy CDs from a CD drive to a CD-RW driv e.

1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Roxio Eas y CD Cr eator, and then

click Project Selector. The Select a Project window appears.

2 Click Disc Copier. (Disc Copier is titl ed "CD Co pier " in som e versions of Ea s y CD

Creator Basic.) The Disc Copier window appears a n d dis pl a ys yo u r C D -RW driv e in the Copy from

and the Record to lists.

3 Insert the source CD that you want to copy into the CD-RW drive.

The Disc Copier project program briefly checks the source CD in the CD-RW drive to ensure that it is a readable CD.

4 Click Copy.

Depending on the size of the files that are being copied, the copy process may take a few minutes.

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5 After the source CD is copied, remove the source CD from the

CD-RW driv e tra y. The CD-RW drive tray opens automatically after the source CD is copied.

6 Insert a blank CD into the CD-RW drive and close the tray.

The recording starts automatically.

7 After the recor di n g co m p le te s , cl ic k OK.

Connecting a Television to the C omput er

NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a te levision are not included

with you r computer. Cables may be purchased at most consumer elec tronics stor es.

Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that enables you to connect the computer to a television. Using a commercially available S-video cable or composite video cable, you can connect the computer to a television in one of two ways:

• S-video (for a television with S-video input)

• Composite video (for a television with only a composite video input; also uses the Dell-supplied composite TV-out adapter cable)

NOTE: Diagrams for each connection combination appear at the beginning of each subsection

to help you determine which method you should use.

The audio connector on the side of the computer enables you to connect the computer to your television or audio device, using a commercially available audio cable.

When you complete the cable connection, see "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the television.

Using CDs, DVDs, a nd Other Multimedi a 73

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S-Video Connection

Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:

S-video cabl e

audio cable

1 Shut down the computer and the television and/or audio device you want to connect. 2 Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video connector on the computer.

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3 Plug the other end of the S-video cable into your television. 4 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on

your computer.

5 Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input

connectors on your television or audio device.

6 Turn on the television, turn on any audio device you connected, and then turn on the

computer.

7 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" on page 78 to ensure that the

com puter recogni zes and wor ks properly with the t elevision.

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Composite Video Connection

To connect the computer to a television that has a composite video input o nly, Dell provides a composite TV-out adapter cable. Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:

composite TV-out adapter cable

comp osite vi de o ca b le

1 Turn off the computer and the television and/or audio device you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite TV-out adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on the

computer.

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audio cable

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S-video TV-out connector

comp os ite vid eo connector

S-video connector

composite TV-out adapter cable

3 Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video connector on the

composite TV-out adapter cable.

4 Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite video connector

on the television.

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5 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on the

computer.

6 Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input

connectors on your television or audio device.

Enabling the Display Settings for a Television

ATI Video Controller

NOTE: Ensure that you properly connect the television before you enable the display settings.

1 To open the Contr ol Panel window, click the Start button and then click the Control

Panel icon.

2 Double-click the Display icon , click the Settings tab, and then click Advanced. 3 Click the Displays tab. 4 Click the upper-left corner of the TV button to enable the television. 5 To play a DVD on the television, click the small "primary" button (resembles a

bull’s-eye) at the bottom-left under the TV picture.

NOTE: Various programs access th e hardware in different ways. You may or may not need to

click the primary button for ope rations other than playing DVDs.

Click Apply.

7 Click Yes to keep the new settings. 8 Click OK.

DVD video is visible only on the display that is set to primary. While the DVD is playing, the DVD player window on your computer display is blank or (if the DVD player window is set to full-screen mode) the entire computer di spl ay screen is blank.

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SECTION 6

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter Network Setup Wizard Network Problems

Page 80

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Connecting to a Network Adapter

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

To connect a network cable:

1 Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your

computer.

NOTE: Insert the cable un til it clicks into place, and t hen gently pull it to ensure that it is

secure.

Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device, such as a network wall jack.

NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wal l jack.

network cable

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network adapter connector on computer

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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.

2 On the welcome screen, click Next. 3 Click Checklist for creating a network.

NOTE: Select ing the co nne ctio n met hod T his comput er conne ct s direc tl y to the Internet ena bl es

the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP.

Complete the checklist and required preparations, and return to the Network Setup Wizard.

5 Follow the instructions on the screen.

Network Problems

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the networ k cable con nec to r is

firmly connected to the optional connector on the computer and the network wall jack. CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR — Green indicates that the

network connection is active. If the status light is not green, try replacing the network cable. Amber indicates that the optional network adapter driver is loaded and the adapter is detecting activity.

ESTART THE COMPUTER — Try to log on to the network again. ONTACT YOUR NETWORK A DMINIST RATOR — Verify that your network settings are correct

and that the network is functioning.

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82 Se tting Up a Home an d Office Ne twork

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SECTION 7

Solving Problems

Finding Solutions Accessing Help Error Messages Video and Display Problems Scanner Problems Drive Problems PC Card Probl ems General Program Problems If Your Computer Gets Wet If You Drop or Damage Your Computer Re so lv ing Other Technical Problems Drivers Using System Restore Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Re inst alling Microsoft

Windows® XP

Page 84

Finding Soluti ons

Sometimes it’s difficult to figure out where to go for answers. Use this c har t to quickly find the answers to your questions.

NOTE: If you have a problem with an external device, see the device do cumentation or contact

the manufacturer.

See page 50.

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Press the power button to resume from standby mode. See the

Tell Me How

for more information on standby mode.

Get technical assistance from Dell. See page 86.

See page 86.

help file

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See page 87.

See page 69.

See page 40.

See page 35.

See page 89.

See page 64.

See page 65.

See page 90

See page 81.

See page 86.

See page 94.

See page 92.

See page 34.

See page 36.

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Accessing Help

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TO ACCESS THE

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Click User and sy stem guides and click User’s guides. 3 Click T ell Me How.

TO ACCESS HELP —

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 scre en .

ELL ME HOW

HELP FILE —

Error Messages

If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running at the time the message appeared.

THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TO O LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION

DRIVE — The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk, or

the disk is too full. Try copying the file to a different disk or use a larger capacity disk.

86 Sol ving Problems

A FILE NAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWIN G

CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these cha rac ters in

filenames.

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 OR DISK ERROR — A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy disk and restart the computer.

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NOT ENOUGH MEMO RY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND

TRY AGAIN — You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open

the program that you want to use.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page127).

A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. Remove and then reinstall the program.

1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Add or Remove Programs. 4 Select the program you want to remove. 5 Click Remove or Chang e/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen. 6 See the program documentation for installation instructions.

X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY — Insert a disk

into the drive and try again.

Video and Display P roblems

If the display is blank

NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer

supports, it is recommended that you attach an external monitor to your computer.

CHECK THE LIGHT — When the light is blinking, the computer has po w e r.

• If the light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit stan dby mo de .

• If the light is off, press the power button.

• If the light is on, your power management settings may have caused the display to turn off. Try pressing any key or move the cursor to exit standby mode.

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CHECK THE BATTERY — If you are using a battery to power your computer,

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

TEST THE ELECTR ICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

CHECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that it is on.

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CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OU TLET —

Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

ADJU ST THE POWE R PROPERTIES — Search fo r the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

SWITCH TH E VI DEO IMAGE — If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press to switch the video image to the display.

If the display is difficult to read

ADJU ST THE BRIGHTNESS — See the Tell Me Ho w help file for instructions

on adjusting the brightness. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FRO M THE COMPUTER OR MO NITOR —

If your external speaker system includes a subwoofer , ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.

88 Sol ving Problems

ELIMIN ATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — T urn off nearby fans, fluorescent

lights, ha logen lamps, or other appliances.

Page 89

ROTAT E THE COM PUTE R TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION —

Eliminat e sunlight glare, which can cause poo r p icture quality.

ADJU ST THE WINDOWS DI SPL AY SE TTINGS —

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Appearance and Themes. 3 Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon. 4 Try different settings for Color qual i ty and Screen resol ut ion.

SEE "E RROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see "Error

Messages" on page 86.

If only part of the display is readable

CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONI TOR —

1 Turn off your computer and connect an e x ternal monitor to the compute r. 2 T urn on the computer and the monitor, and adjust the monitor brightness and

contrast co ntrols.

If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 127).

Scanner Probl ems

NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your mod em is functioning

properly. If you are sure tha t your mode m is worki ng prop erly and yo u stil l experi en ce prob lem s, contact yo ur ISP.

CHECK THE POWER CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the scanner power cable is firmly connected to a working electrical power source and that the scanner is turned on.

CHECK THE SCANNER CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the scanner cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the scanner.

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UNLOCK THE SCANNER — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a

locking tab or button.

REINSTALL TH E SCANNER DRIVER — See the scanner documentation for instructions.

Drive Problems

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NOTE: For inf ormation on sa ving files to a floppy disk, see the

the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive

ENSURE THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start

button and click My Computer. If the 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. Insert a bootable disk and restart the computer. Verify that the light is blinking, indicating normal operation.

ENSURE THAT THE DISK IS NOT WRITE-PROTECTED — Yo u cann ot save data to a write-protected disk. See the following figure.

back of floppy disk

write-protected

T ell Me How

help file. To access

90 Sol ving Problems

not write-protected

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TRY ANOTHER FLOPPY DISK — Insert another dis k to elimina te the possibility th at the ori gina l d isk is defe ct ive.

REINSTALL TH E DRI VE —

1 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the

computer.

2 Remove the drive from the module bay . See "Using the Module Bay" in the

Te ll M e Ho w help file for instructions. To access the help file, se e "Access ing Help" on page 86.

3 Reinstall the drive. 4 Turn on the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE — See "Cleaning Your Computer" in the Tell Me H ow

help file for instructions. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 86.

If you have problems with a hard drive

ALLO W THE COMPUT ER TO COOL BE FORE TUR NING IT ON — A hot

hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.

CHECK THE DRIVE FOR ERRORS —

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.

PC Card Problems

CHECK THE PC CARD — Ensure that the PC Card is properly inserted into

the connector.

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ENSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WIN DOWS®— Doubleclick the Unplug or Eject Hardw are icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.

IF YO U HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PR OVIDED PC CARD — Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page127).

IF YO U HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A PC CARD NO T PRO VIDED BY D

ELL — Contact the PC Card manufacturer.

General Program Problems

A program crashes

NOTE: Software usually includes install a tion inst ruct ions in its d ocumentation or on a flopp y

disk or CD.

SEE 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. Reinstall the program if necessary.

A program stops responding

Error messages appear

92 Sol ving Problems

END THE PROGRAM —

1 Simultaneously press . 2 Click the Applications tab, and then select the program that is no longer

responding.

3 Click End T a sk.

REVIEW "ERROR MESSAGES"—Look up the message and take the

appropriate action. See the software documentation.

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If Your Computer Gets Wet

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, it is recommended that you tu rn of f AC po we r at the ci rcui t bre ake r be fo re at tem ptin g t o re mov e th e power cables from the electrical outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing wet cables from a live power source.

Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page42), disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, and then disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet.

2 Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources

and then from the computer.

3 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer. 4 Remove the module bay device and any installed PC Cards, and put them in a safe

place to dry.

5 Remove the battery. 6 Wipe off the battery and put it in a safe place to dry. 7 Remove the hard drive (see "Replacing the Hard Drive" on page111). 8 Remove the memory module(s) (see "Adding Memory" on page 106). 9 Open the display and place the computer right-side up across two books or similar

props to let air circulate all around it. Let the computer dry for at least 24 hours in a dry area at room temperatur e .

NOTICE: Do not use artificial mean s, suc h as a h air dryer or a fa n, t o spee d th e drying pro cess . CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is

thoroughly dry before continuing with the rest of this procedure.

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

11 Replace the memory module(s), the memory module cover, and the screw(s). 12 Replace the hard drive. 13 Replace the module bay device and any PC Cards you removed. 14 Replace the battery. 15 Tu r n o n the com puter an d ve ri fy that it is wor k in g properly.

NOTE: See "Limited Warrant ies and Re turn Policy" on page 105 for information on your

warranty coverage.

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If the computer does not start, or if yo u cannot identify the damaged components, contact

(see "Contactin g De l l" on page 127).

Dell

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

1 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer

(see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 42).

2 Disconnect the AC adapter from the computer and from the electrical outlet. 3 Turn of f any attach ed external device s, and disconnect them from their power so urces

and then from the computer.

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4 Remove and reinstall the battery. 5 Turn on the computer.

NOTE: See "Limited Warrant ies and Re turn Policy" on page 105 for information on yo ur

warranty coverage.

If the computer does not start, or if yo u cannot identify the damaged components, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 127).

Resolving Other Technical Problems

GO TO THE DELL SUPPORT WEBSITE — Go to support.dell.com for help

with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions. See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S.Only)" on page 126 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.

E-MAIL DELL — Go to support.dell.com and then click E-M a il Dell in the Communicate list. Send an e-mail message to Dell about your problem; you can

expect to receive an e-mail message from Dell within hours. See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 126 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.

CONTACT DELL — If you cannot so l v e your problem using the Dell™ Support website or e-mail se rvice, call Dell for technical assi stance (see "Contacting Dell" on page 127). See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S.Only)" on page126 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.

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Drivers

What Is a Driver?

A driver is a program that controls a device such as a pri nter, mouse, or keyboard. All devices require a driver program.

A driver acts lik e a translator be tween the device and the p rograms tha t use the devi ce. Ea ch device has its own set of specialized comman ds that only its driver r ecognizes.

Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation or configuration is needed.

NOTICE: The

on your comput er. Ensure that yo u are ins ta llin g software appr opri at e for yo ur ope ratin g sys tem .

Driver s an d Utilities

CD may contain drivers for operating system s that are not

Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft® Windows® oper ating system. You may need to install drivers if you:

• Upgrade your operating system.

• Reinstall your operating system.

• Connect or install a new device.

Identifying Drivers

If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance. 3 Click System. 4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab. 5 Click Device M anager. 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 exc lamation point i s next t o the device name, you may need to rei nstall the driver

or install a new driver.

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Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

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NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your

provide appr oved dr ivers fo r De ll™ comput er s. If you i nstal l drive rs obta ine d fr om othe r so urc es, your comput er might not work correctly.

Drivers and Utilities

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 M anager. 6 Right-click the device for which the new driver was instal led and click Properties. 7 Click the Drivers tab. 8 Click Roll Back Driver.

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see "Using System Restore" on page 98) to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.

Using the Drivers and Utilities CD

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see "Using System Restore" on page 98) does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the Drivers and Utilities CD :

1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Insert the Drive rs and Uti litie s CD.

In most cases, the CD starts running automatically. If it does not, start Windows Explorer, click your CD drive directory to display the CD contents, and then doubleclick the autocd.exe file. The first time that you run the CD, it might prompt you to install setup files. Click OK, and follow the instructions on the screen to continue.

3 From the Language drop-down menu in the toolbar, select your preferred language for

the driver or utility (if available). A welcome screen appears.

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4 Click Next.

The CD automatically scans your hardw are to detect drivers and utilities us ed by your computer.

5 After the CD completes the hardware scan, you can also detect other drivers and

utilities. Under Search C riteria, select the appropriate categories from the Sy ste m Model, Operating System, and Topic drop-down menus.

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

6 Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or

utility that you want to install.

7 Click the Install button (if present) to begin installing the driver or utility. At the

welcome screen, follow the screen prompts to complete the installation. If no Install button is present, automatic installation is not an opti o n. For installation

instructions, either see the appropriate instructions in the following subsections, or click Extract, follow the extracting instructions, and read the readme file.

If instructed to navigate to the driver files, click the CD directory on the driver information window to display the file s assoc iated with that driver.

Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows XP

NOTE: If you are reins ta llin g an in frar ed senso r d river, you mu st f irst en able t he infr ar ed sens o r

in the system setup program (see "System Setup Screens" on page 123) before continuing with the driver installation.

After extracting the driver files to your hard dri ve as described in the previous section, click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel.

2 Click the Start button and right-click My Computer. 3 Click Properties. 4 Click the Hardware tab an d cl ick Device Manager. 5 Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example,

Modems or Infrared d evi ces).

6 Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver. 7 Click the Driver tab and cli c k Update Driver. 8 Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and clic k Next. 9 Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver

files.

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10 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next. 11 Click Finish and restart your computer.

Using 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 hardwar e , software, or other system setti ngs have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access help, see page 86.

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NOTICE: Make regular backups of your da ta f iles. System Restore does no t m onitor your data

files o r recover them.

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

NOTICE: Before you rest ore th e comput er to an earli er operat ing sta te , save and cl ose all open

files and close all open programs. Do not alt er, open, or del ete any files or pro grams until the system restoration is com p lete.

Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ Syst e m Tools, and then click Sy stem 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 Res t ore P oint screen provides a calendar that allows you to see a nd select restore points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in bold.

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.

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5 Click Next.

The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the computer restarts.

6 After the computer restarts, click OK.

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

Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and close all

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 click Sy stem Restore.

2 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next. 3 Click Next.

The System Restore screen appears and the computer re starts.

4 After the computer restarts, click OK.

Enabling System Restore

If you reinstall Wi ndows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, Syst em Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Performance and Maint e nance. 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 conflict s occur if a device eith er is not detected during the op erating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured.

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To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows XP:

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Performance and Maint e nance and click System. 3 Click the Hardware tab an d cl ick Device Manager. 4 In the Devi ce Manage r list, check for conflicts with the other devices.

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Conflicts are indi cat e d by a y e llow exclamation point ( or a red

5 Double-click any conflict to display the Properties window.

X if the device has been disabled.

!) beside th e conf l icti n g devi ce

If an IRQ co nflict 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 d evices from t he Device

Manager.

To use the Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter:

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Typ e hardware troubles hooter in the Search field and click the arrow to start the

search.

3 Click Hardware Tro u blesho oter in th e Search Results list. 4 In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my

computer, and click Next.

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 W indows XP Device Driver Rollback (see "Using Wi n do ws XP Device Drive r Rollback" on page 96). If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see "Using System Restore" on page 98) to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device dr iv er.

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