How it Works
Dell
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C7565
User Manual
140 pgs12.24 Mb0
Table of contents
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Dell C7565 User Manual

Dell™ Dimension™ 5000
CD or DVD eject button
FlexBay for optional floppy drive or Media Card Reader
microphone connector
headphone connector
diagnostic lights
hard drive activity light
power button
USB 2.0 connectors (2)
Service Tag
cover latch release
power connector
sound-card connectors
USB 2.0 connectors (5)
Model DCSM
card slots for PCI Express x16 (1), PCI (2), PCI Express x1 (1)
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network adapter
VGA video connector (integrated)
serial connector
parallel connector
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.
____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2004–2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, P owerEdge, P owerV ault, P owerApp,
DellNet, and PowerConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Micr osoft, W indows, and Outlook are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model DCSM
January 2005 P/N C7565 Rev. A01
Contents
Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Printer Cable Connecting a USB Printer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Connecting a Parallel Printer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Connecting to the Internet
Setting Up Your Internet Connection
Playing CDs and DVDs
Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture
Copying CDs and DVDs
How to Copy a CD or DVD Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs Helpful Tips
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)
Connecting Two Monitors
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One
Monitor With a DVI Connector Connecting a TV
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Changing the Display Settings
Setting Up a Home and Office Network
Connecting to a Network Adapter Network Setup Wizard
Power Management
Standby Mode Hibernate Mode
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Power Options Properties
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Hyper-Threading
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Contents 3
2 Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Battery Problems
Drive Problems
CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
Error Messages
Media Card Reader Problems
Keyboard Problems
Lockups and Software Problems
The computer does not start up The computer stops responding A program stops responding A program crashes repeatedly
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system A solid blue screen appears Other software problems
Memory Problems
Mouse Problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
. . . . . 33
4 Contents
Network Problems
Power Problems
Printer Problems
Scanner Problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Sound and Speaker Problems
No sound from speakers No sound from headphones
Video and Monitor Problems
If the screen is blank
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
If the screen is difficult to read
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
3 Troubleshooting Tools
Diagnostic Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Dell Diagnostics
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
Drivers
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
Restoring Your Operating System
Using Microsoft Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . 49
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
4 Removing and Installing Parts
Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer
Front View of the Computer
Back View of the Computer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Removing the Computer Cover
Inside View of Your Computer
System Board Components
Memory
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
DDR2 Memory Overview Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations Installing Memory Removing Memory
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Cards
PCI Cards
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
PCI Express Cards
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Contents 5
Drive Panels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Removing the Drive Panel Removing the Drive-Panel Insert Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert Replacing the Drive Panel.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Drives
IDE Drive Addressing Connecting Drive Cables Drive Interface Connectors Power Cable Connector Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Hard Drive
Floppy Drive
Media Card Reader
CD/DVD Drive
Battery
Replacing the Computer Cover
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Removing a Hard Drive Installing a Hard Drive Adding a Second Hard Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Removing a Floppy Drive Installing a Floppy Drive
Removing a Media Card Reader Installing a Media Card Reader
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Removing a CD/DVD Drive Installing a CD/DVD Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Replacing the Battery
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
5 Appendix
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
6 Contents
System Setup
Overview
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Entering System Setup System Setup Options Boot Sequence
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Clearing Forgotten Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Clearing CMOS Settings
Cleaning Your Computer
Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Mouse Floppy Drive CDs and DVDs
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)
Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Class A Class B
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
FCC Identification Information
Contacting Dell
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
. . . . . . . . 116
. . . . . . . . . 116
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Contents 7
8 Contents

Finding Information

NOTE: Additional documentation may be included with your computer, depending on your country.
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here
• Warranty information
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
Dell™ Product Information Guide
• How to set up my computer
Setup Diagram
Finding Information 9
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here
• Service Tag and Express Service Code
• Microsoft Windows License Label
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
• Latest drivers for my computer
• Answers to technical service and support questions
• Online discussions with other users and technical support
• Documentation for my computer
Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License
These labels are located on your computer.
• Use the Service Tag to
• Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support
site.
The Dell Support website provides several online tools, including:
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles
• Community — Online discussion with other Dell
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such
• Customer Care — Contact information, order status,
• Downloads — Drivers, patches, and software updates
• Reference — Computer documentation, product
identify your computer when you use
support.dell.com
contact technical support.
contacting technical support. The Express Service Code is not available in all countries.
from technicians, and online courses
customers
as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system
warranty, and repair information
specifications, and white papers
or
10 Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up a Printer

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

Printer Cable

Your printer connects to your computer with 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 USB Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1
Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.
2
Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.
3
Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 11
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Connecting a Parallel Printer

1
Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.
2
Turn off the computer (see page 53).
NOTICE: For best results, use a 3-m (10-ft) or shorter parallel cable.
3
Attach the parallel printer cable to the parallel connector on the computer and tighten the two screws. Attach the cable to the connector on the printer and snap the two clips into the two notches.
USB connector on computer
USB printer cable
USB connector on printer
12 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
parallel connector on computer
connector on printer
screws (2)
parallel printer cable
notches (2)
4
Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the
Cancel
window appears, click
5
Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.
.
Add New Hardware Wizard
clips (2)

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.
To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP), such as AOL or MSN. Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options:
• Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections.
• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same line simultaneously.
• Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line.
If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 13

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an AOL or MSN connection:
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Double-click the
3
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
If you do not have an Internet connection with a different ISP:
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Click the
The
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3
4
5
New Connection Wizard
Click
Connect to the Internet
In the next window, click the appropriate option:
• If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click
service providers (ISPs)
• If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click
• If you have a CD, click
Click
Next
If you selected instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
MSN Explorer
MSN Explorer
Start
button and click
or
AOL
or
AOL
Internet Explorer
appears.
.
.
Set up my connection manually
Use the CD I got from an ISP
.
Set up my connection manually
icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.
icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an
.
Choose from a list of Internet
.
.
, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.
6
Click the appropriate option under click
Next
.
7
Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 29. 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.
14 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
How do you want to connect to the Internet?
, and then

Playing CDs and DVDs

NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when
you are not using the drive.
NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs.
1
Press the eject button on the front of the drive.
2
Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.
3
Press the eject button or gently push in the tray.
To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer.
NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.
A CD player includes the following basic buttons:
Play
Move backward within the current track
Pau se
Move forward within the current track
Stop
Go to the previous track
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15
Eject
Go to the next track
A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:
Stop
Restart the current chapter
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For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click

Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.
1
Click the
Volume Control
2
In the
Volume Control
slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.
For more information on volume control options, click
Play
Fast forward
Pau se
Fast reverse
Advance a single frame while in pause mode
Go to the next title or chapter
Continuously play the current title or chapter
Go to the previous title or chapter
Eject
Start
button, point to
.
Help
on the CD or DVD player (if available).
All Programs → Accessories→ Entertainment
window, click and drag the bar in the
Help
in the
Volume Control
Volume Control
, and then click
column and
window.
16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Adjusting the Picture

If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties:
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Under
4
In the setting to
5
Click the drop-down menu under
6
Click OK.
Start
button and click
Pick a category
Pick a task...
Display Properties
800 by 600 pixels
, click
, click
Control Panel
Appearance and Themes
Change the screen resolution
window, click and drag the bar in
.
Color quality
.
.
.
, and then click
Screen resolution
Medium (16 bit)
to change the
.

Copying CDs and DVDs

NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs or DVDs.
This section applies only to computers that have a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD+R, or DVD/CD-RW combo drive.
NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
The following instructions show how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic RecordNow for other purposes, including creating CDs from audio files on your computer and creating MP3 CDs. For instructions, see the Sonic RecordNow documentation that came with your computer. Open Sonic RecordNow, click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window, and then click
RecordNow Help
or
RecordNow Tutorial
.

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: If you have a DVD/CD-RW combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for
available software patches at the Sonic support website at support.sonic.com.
Currently, five DVD-writable disc formats are available: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM. The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to DVD+R and DVD+RW media, and can read DVD-R and DVD-RW media. However, DVD-writable drives do not write to and might not read DVD-RAM media. In addition, commercially available DVD players for home theater systems might not read all five formats.
NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic
RecordNow.
1
Click the
RecordNow!
2
Click either the audio tab or the data tab, depending on the kind of CD or DVD you want to copy.
3
Click
Start
button, point to
Exact Copy
All Programs→
.
Sonic→ RecordNow!
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 17
, and then click
4
To copy the CD or DVD:
•
If you have one CD or DVD drive
computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies it to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.
When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the CD or DVD drive and click
, ensure that the settings are correct and click
Copy
OK
. The
.
If you have two CD or DVD drives
• source CD or DVD and click the blank CD or DVD.
Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created automatically ejects.
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Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs

Your CD-RW drive can write to two different types of recording media: CD-Rs and CD-RWs (including high-speed CD-RWs). Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.
Your DVD-writable drive can write to four different types of recording media: CD-Rs, CD-RWs (including high-speed CD-RWs), DVD+Rs, and DVD+RWs. Blank DVD+Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.

Helpful Tips

• Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Sonic RecordNow and open a RecordNow project.
• You must use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos.
• You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic RecordNow.
• Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.
• Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a 650-MB blank CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1 or 2 MB of the blank CD to finalize the recording.
• Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank CD-RWs to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.
• See the Sonic support website at
, select the drive into which you have inserted your
Copy
. The computer copies the data on the CD or DVD to
support.sonic.com
for additional information.
18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Use the Media Card Reader to transfer data directly to your computer.
The Media Card Reader supports the following memory types:
•xD-Picture Card
• SmartMedia (SMC)
• CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II)
• MicroDrive Card
• SecureDigital Card (SD)
• MultiMediaCard (MMC)
• Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)
For information on installing a Media Card Reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on page 92.
Memory Stick
xD-Picture Card and SmartMedia (SMC)
CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II) and MicroDrive Card
(MS/MS Pro)
SecureDigital Card (SD)/ MultiMediaCard (MMC)
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 19
To use the Media Card Reader:
1
Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion.
2
Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector.
If you encounter resistance, do not force the media or card. Check the card orientation and try again.

Connecting Two Monitors

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
NOTICE: If you are connecting two monitors that have VGA connectors, you must have the optional DVI
adapter. If you are connecting two flat-panel monitors, at least one of them must have a VGA connector. If you are connecting a TV, you may connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the TV.
If you purchased a graphics card that supports dual monitors, follow these instructions to connect and enable your monitors. The instructions tell you how to connect either two monitors (each with a VGA connector), one monitor with a VGA connector and one monitor with a DVI connector, or aTV.

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.
NOTE: If your computer has integrated video, do not connect either monitor to the integrated video
connector. If the integrated video connector is covered by a cap, do not remove the cap to connect the monitor or the monitor will not function.
2
Connect one of the monitors to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.
3
Connect the other monitor to the optional DVI adapter and connect the DVI adapter to the DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.
20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
optional DVI adapter
DVI (white) connector
TV-OUT connector
VGA (blue) connector

Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.
2
Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.
3
Connect the DVI connector on the other monitor to the DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.

Connecting a TV

NOTE: To connect a TV to your computer, you must purchase an S-video cable, which is available at
most consumer electronics stores. An S-video cable is not included with your computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.
2
Connect one end of the S-video cable to the TV-OUT connector on the back of the computer.
3
Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV.
4
Connect the VGA or DVI monitor.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 21

Changing the Display Settings

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

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

NOTICE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the computer. Do not plug the
network cable into the modem connector on the computer. Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack.
1
Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.
Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.
2
Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device.
®
Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.
Start
, click
Device guides
button, click
, and then click the guide for your graphics card).
Help and Support
, click
User and
network adapter connector
network adapter connector on computer
22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
network device
network cable

Network Setup Wizard

The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office.
1
Click the click
2
On the welcome screen, click
3
Click
NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the
integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1).
4
Complete the checklist and required preparations.
5
Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.
Start
button, point to
Network Setup Wizard
Checklist for creating a network
All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications
.
Next
.
, and then
.

Power Management

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

Standby Mode

Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out. When the computer exits from standby mode, it returns to the operating state it was in before it entered standby mode.
To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity:
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Under
To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click the
Turn Off Computer
To exit from standby mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.
NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data.
Start
button and click
Pick a category
or pick a Control Panel icon
, click
, and then click
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
Stand by
, click
Power Options
.
.
.
.
Start
button, click
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 23

Hibernate Mode

Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits from hibernate mode, the desktop is restored to the state it was in
To activate hibernate mode:
1
Click the
2
Under
Pick a category
3
Under
or pick a Control Panel icon
4
Define your hibernate settings on the Power
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
To exit from hibernate mode from hibernate mode. Pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the computer out of hibernation, because the keyboard and the mouse do not function when the computer is in hibernate mode.
Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you. If the computer’s hard drive becomes corrupted, Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.

Power Options Properties

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

Hyper-Threading

Hyper-Threading is an Intel® technology that can enhance overall computer performance by allowing one physical processor to function as two logical processors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously. It is recommended that you use the Microsoft (SP1) or later operating system because Windows XP is optimized to take advantage of Hyper-Threading technology. While many programs can benefit from Hyper-Threading, some programs have not been optimized for Hyper-Threading and may require an update from the software manufacturer. Contact the software manufacturer for updates and information about using Hyper-Threading with your software.
To determine if your computer is using Hyper-Threading technology:
1
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Click the
2
Click
Hardware
3
In the
Device Manager
is enabled, the processor is listed twice.
You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. For more information on accessing system setup, see page 105. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the Knowledge Base on the Dell Support website at
Start
button, right-click
and click
My Computer
Device Manager
window, click the plus (+) sign next to
, and then click
.
support.dell.com
.
®
Windows® XP Service Pack 1
Properties
Processors
.
. If Hyper-Threading
26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tips

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

Battery Problems

CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the
battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
REPLACE THE BATTERY — If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on
the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see page 98). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 118).

Drive Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and
click My Computer. If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive, is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
Solving Problems 27
TEST THE DRIVE —
• Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.
• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.
CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK — See page 114.
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See page 49.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See page 46.

CD and DVD drive problems

NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a
defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all
DVD drives.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —
• Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
• Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.
• Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.
CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 39.
Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive
CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the CD/DVD-RW.
TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC — Search for the keyword standby in Windows Help.
28 Solving Problems

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK —
1
Click the
2
Right-click
3
Click
4
Click the
5
Under
6
Click
7
Click
Start
button and click
Local Disk C:
Properties
Tools
.
tab.
Error-checking
, click
My Computer
.
Check Now
.
.
Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors Start
.
.

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not operate while it is
connected to a digital telephone network.
CHECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS — If you cannot open your e-mail attachments:
1
In Outlook Express, click
2
Click
Do not allow attachments
To ol s
, click
Options
to remove the checkmark.
, and then click
Security
.
CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION — C
HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK — ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK —
C
SE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —
U
• Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem. (The jack has either a green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.)
• Ensure that you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.
• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.
• If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Click the Start button, point to All Programs, and then click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)
Solving Problems 29
VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Click
4
Click the
5
Click the COM port for your modem.
6
Click
Start
button and click
Control Panel Printers and Other Hardware Phone and Modem Options
Modems
Properties
tab.
, click the
Diagnostics
.
.
.
tab, and then click
Query Modem
communicating with Windows. If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
to verify that the modem is
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service provider.

Error Messages

If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in filenames.
A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program:
1
Click the
2
Select the program you want to remove.
3
Click the
4
See the program documentation for installation instructions.
drive letter :\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY — The drive cannot read the disk. Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
Start
button, click
Control Panel
Change or Remove Program
, and then click
icon.
Add or Remove Programs
.
INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.
NON- SYSTEM DISK ERROR — Remove the floppy disk from the drive and restart your computer.
30 Solving Problems
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