Dell D430 User Manual

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Page 1

Dell™ Latitude™ D430

User’s Guide

Model PP09S

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Page 2

For information on other documentation included with your computer, see "Finding Information" on page 11.

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the

problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see "Glossary" on page 139.

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

Windows®

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Latitude, Wi-Fi Catcher, ExpressCharge, and Undock & Go are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Core is a trademark and Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Outlook, Windows, Vista, TravelLite, and Touch Strip are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

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 PP09S

May 2008 P/N XK022 Rev. A03

Page 3

1 Finding Information

2 About Your Computer

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

3 Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft® Windows® XP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Microsoft Windows Vista®

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

4 Using a Battery

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft Charge Gauge

Windows® Power Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Power Management Modes

Standby and Sleep Mode Hibernate Mode

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Configuring Power Management Settings

Accessing Power Options Properties

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Contents 3

Page 4

Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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

5 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Key Combinations

System Functions Battery

Optical Drive Tray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Display Functions Power Management

Speaker Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Touch Pad

Fingerprint Reader (optional)

Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Changing the Track Stick Cap

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

6 Using the Display

4 Contents

Adjusting Brightness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Switching the Video Image From Your Computer Display to a Projector

. . . . 41

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper on the Screen: Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Microsoft

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Microsoft Windows Vista®

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Using an External Monitor Simultaneously as an Extension of Your Computer Display 43

Microsoft Microsoft Windows Vista®

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Using an External Monitor as Your Primary Display: Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays

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

Microsoft

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Page 5

Microsoft Windows Vista®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

7 Setting Up and Using Networks

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System

Wireless Local Area Network

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection Checking Your Wireless Network Card

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem 48 Connecting to a WLAN

Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Managing Your Network Settings Through the Dell QuickSet Location Profiler

Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

Microsoft

Windows® Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

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

8 Using Cards

Card Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Card Blanks

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

. . 46

. 46

. 51

PC Cards

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

PC Card Blanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Extended PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Installing a PC Card or an ExpressCard

Removing a PC Card or Blank

Installing or Removing a Secure Digital (SD) Card

Extended Cards

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Contents 5

Page 6

9 Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Smart Card

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

About Smart Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Installing a Smart Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Passwords

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Using a Primary (or System) Password Using an Administrator Password Using a Hard Drive Password

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Enabling the TPM Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Security Management Software

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Using the Security Management Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Computer Tracking Software

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

10 Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Touch Pad

Floppy Drive

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

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

11 Troubleshooting

6 Contents

Optical Disks

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Dell Technical Update Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities media

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

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

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

. . . . 72

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Dell Support Utility

Accessing the Dell Support Utility

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Page 7

Clicking the Dell Support Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Drive Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Optical drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

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

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

External Keyboard problems Unexpected characters

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up The computer stops responding

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system A solid blue screen appears

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Memory Problems

Network Problems

General

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

PC Card or ExpressCard Problems

Power Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer Docking Power Considerations

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

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

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

Sound and Speaker Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

No sound from integrated speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

No sound from external speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

No sound from headphones

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

Video and Display Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

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

Contents 7

Page 8

If the display is blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

If the display is difficult to read

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

If only part of the display is readable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

12 System Setup Program

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Viewing the System Setup Screens

System Setup Screens

Commonly Used Options

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

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

Changing the Boot Sequence Changing COM Ports

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

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

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

13 Reinstalling Software

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers

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

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

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems in the Microsoft® Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating Systems

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

Windows® System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Using the Operating System CD

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

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

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

14 Adding and Replacing Parts

8 Contents

Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer

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

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

Before Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Hard Drive

Memory

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Removing the Hard Drive Replacing the Hard Drive

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

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

Page 9

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Hinge Cover

Mini-Cards

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Mobile Broadband (WWAN) Cards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Card

Internal Card With Bluetooth

Coin-Cell Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Wireless Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

15 Dell™ QuickSet

16 Traveling With Your Computer

Identifying Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Packing the Computer

Travel Tips

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Traveling by Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

17 Getting Help

Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Technical Support and Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

DellConnect Online Services AutoTech Service Automated Order-Status Service

Problems With Your Order

Product Information

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Before You Call

Contacting Dell

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Contents 9

Page 10

18 Specifications

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

FCC Notice (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

FCC Class B

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

Macrovision Product Notice

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

10 Contents

Page 11

Finding Information

NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or

media may not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• Notebook System Software (NSS)

Drivers and Utilities Media

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media may be optional and

may not ship with your computer.

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the media to reinstall drivers (see Drivers and Utilities media) or to run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

Readme files may be included on your media to provide up-to-the-minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technicalreference material for technicians or experienced users.

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at

support.dell.com.

Finding Information 11

Page 12

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

• Basic troubleshooting information

• How to run the Dell Diagnostics

• How to remove and install parts

Quick Reference Guide

NOTE: This document may be optional and may not ship with

your computer.

NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at

support.dell.com.

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Dell™ Product Information Guide

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

12 Finding Information

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License

These labels are located on your computer.

• Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use

support.dell.com

• Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting support.

or contact support.

Page 13

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, online courses, and frequently asked questions

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business segment to view the

appropriate support site.

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system

• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and order status, warranty, and repair information

• Service and support — Service call status and support history, service contract, online discussions with support

• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my computer configuration, product specifications, and white papers

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates

• Notebook System Software (NSS) — If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the NSS utility. NSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell™

3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel

processors, optical drives, and USB devices. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

segment, and enter your Service Tag.

Select

Click your operating system and search for the keyword

Notebook System Software

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary

depending on your selections.

configuration.

• Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints — Frequently asked questions, hot topics, and general health of your computing environment

Dell Support Utility

The Dell Support Utility is an automated upgrade and notification system installed on your computer. This support provides real-time health scans of your computing environment, software updates, and relevant self-support information. Access the Dell Support Utility from the icon in the taskbar. For more information, see "Dell Support Utility" on page 74.

• How to use Windows XP

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

Windows Help and Support Center

Click

Start → Help and Support

Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

, select your region or business

Drivers & Downloads

and click Go.

Finding Information 13

Page 14

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Information on network activity, the Power Management Wizard, hotkeys, and other items controlled by Dell QuickSet.

• How to reinstall my operating system

Dell QuickSet Help

To view Dell QuickSet Help, right-click the Quickset icon in the Microsoft® Windows® taskbar.

Operating System media

NOTE: The Operating System CD may be optional and may

not ship with your computer.

The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the Operating System media. See Drivers and Utilities media.

Microsoft

NOTE: The color of your media varies based on the operating

system you ordered.

After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities media to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

Your operating system product key label is located on your computer (see

Windows® License" on page 12).

"Service Tag and

14 Finding Information

Page 15

About Your Computer

Front View

About Your Computer 15

Page 16

1 display latch 2 display 3 device status lights

4 touch pad 5 touch pad buttons 6 track stick buttons

7 track stick 8 keyboard 9 speakers

10 keyboard and network status

11 ambient light sensor

lights

DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed.

DISPLAY — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on page 41.

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in Standby 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.

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

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

• Solid green: The battery is charging.

• Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged.

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.

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 37 for more information.

16 About Your Computer

Page 17

TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 37 for more information.

TRACK STICK BUTTONS — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 37 for more information.

TRACK STICK — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 37 for more information.

KEYBOARD — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Windows logo key. For information on

supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Key Combinations" on page 35.

SPEAKERS — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume-control keyboard shortcuts. For

more information, see "Key Combinations" on page 35.

KEYBOARD AND NETWORK STATUS LIGHTS

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.

Turns on when wireless devices are enabled.

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

About Your Computer 17

Page 18

Turns on when Bluetooth

wireless technology is enabled. To enable or disable Bluetooth wireless technology or other wireless devices, turn the wireless switch on or off.

NOTE: Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional

feature on your computer, so the icon turns on only if Bluetooth wireless technology is installed on your computer.

For more information, see the documentation that came with your Bluetooth wireless technology.

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

shutdown rather than by pressing the power button.

If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off completely (which may take several seconds).

AMBIENT LIGHT SENSOR — Detects available environmental light and automatically increases or decreases the

display backlighting to compensate for low-light and high-light environments. Press the <Fn> and left-arrow key to enable or disable the sensor.

Left Side View

1 2 3

1 security cable slot 2 microphone connector 3 headphone connector

4 PC Card slot 5 Smart Card slot 6 Secure Digital memory card

slot

NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a

problem with the fans or the computer.

SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more

information, see "Security Cable Lock" on page 61.

MICROPHONE CONNECTOR — Lets you connect a microphone to the connector.

HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Lets you connect headphones or speakers to the connector.

18 About Your Computer

Page 19

PC CARD SLOT — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter, or a 34-mm ExpressCard in an

adapter. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see "Installing a PC Card or an ExpressCard" on page 56.

MART CARD SLOT — Supports one smart card.

ECURE DIGITAL MEMORY CARD SLOT — The Secure Digital memory card slot supports one Secure Digital

memory card. Use Secure Digital memory cards to save or back up data.

Right Side View

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the 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.

1 air vents 2 wireless switch 3 power button

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

from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your Dell

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.The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.

WIRELESS SWITCH — When enabled through Dell QuickSet, this switch can scan for a wireless LAN (WLAN) in

your vicinity. You can also use it to rapidly turn off or on any wireless devices such as WLAN cards and internal cards with Bluetooth wireless technology (see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 53).

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

Management Modes" on page 31.

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

Windows® operating system

shutdown rather than by pressing the power button.

If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off completely (which may take several seconds).

About Your Computer 19

Page 20

Back View

712 3 4 5 6

1 network connector (RJ-45) 2 modem connector (RJ-11) 3 USB connectors

4 video connector 5 powered USB connector 6 IEEE 1394 Connector

7 AC adapter connector

NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)

NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the computer, do

not plug a telephone line into the network connector.

Connects the computer to a network. The two lights next to the connector indicate the status of both the connection and the transfer of information for wired network communications.

For information on using the network adapter, see the device user’s guide supplied with your computer. See "Finding Information" on page 11.

20 About Your Computer

Page 21

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

Connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

For information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer. See "Finding Information" on page 11 for information about accessing online user’s guides.

CONNECTORS

USB

Connect a USB device, 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.

CONNECTOR

VIDEO

Connects an external monitor. For more information, see "Using the Display" on page 41.

POWERED

USB CONNECTOR

Connect a USB device, 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.

IEEE 1394 CONNECTOR — Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras.

ADAPTER CONNECTOR

Connects an AC adapter to the computer.

The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either 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 from the computer, grasp the connector, not the cable itself,

and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable. When you wrap the AC adapter cable, ensure that you follow the angle of the connector on the AC adapter to avoid damaging the cable.

About Your Computer 21

Page 22

NOTE: The D430 has been optimally designed to be used with the slim Media Base for docking. However, it is

compatible with the D-Family D/Port and D/Dock. With the use of the D-Family D/Port and D/Dock, all ports can be effectively utilized except for the 1394 port. If the use of this port is required, it is recommended that you use the Media Base as your primary docking device.

The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either 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 from the computer, grasp the connector, not the cable itself,

and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable.

Bottom View

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the 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.

22 About Your Computer

Page 23

2 3

1 battery 2 battery charge gauge 3 battery-bay latch release (2)

4 memory module/WLAN Mini-

5 air vents 6 docking device slot

Card cover

BATTERY — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an

electrical outlet. For more information, see "Using a Battery" on page 29.

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE — Provides information on the battery charge. For more information, see "Checking the

Battery Charge" on page 30.

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE (2) — Releases the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 33 for instructions.

COVER — Covers the compartment that contains one memory module and the WLAN Mini-Card. For additional

information, see "Adding and Replacing Parts" on page 103.

MEMORY MODULE/WLAN MINI-CARD COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the second memory

module connector (DIMM B) (see "Memory" on page 131).

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

from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your Dell

DOCKING DEVICE SLOT — Lets you attach your computer to a docking device. See the documentation that came

About Your Computer 23

Page 24

with your docking device for additional information.

NOTICE: Your computer features Dell Undock & Go™ technology that allows you to undock your computer without

going into standby mode. Because the computer may not automatically go into standby mode when it is undocked, be sure the settings in the Power Options control panel do not prohibit the computer from going into standby mode. If you change the Power Options control panel to prohibit the computer from going into standby mode, you greatly increase the chances of causing your battery to wear down quickly or causing your computer to overheat.

24 About Your Computer

Page 25

Transferring Information to a New Computer

You can use your operating system "wizards" to help you transfer files and other data from one computer to another—for example, from an old computer to a new computer. For instructions, see the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is running.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data from a source computer to a new computer. You can transfer data, such as:

• E-mail messages

• 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 removable media, such as a writable CD, for transfer to the new computer.

NOTE: You can transfer information from an old computer to a new computer by directly connecting a serial

cable to the input/output (I/O) ports of the two computers. To transfer data over a serial connection, you must access the Network Connections utility from the Control Panel and perform additional configuration steps, such as setting up an advanced connection and designating the host computer and the guest computer.

For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, see Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #305621, titled How to Set Up a Direct Cable Connection Between Two Computers in Windows XP. This information may not be available in certain countries.

For transferring information to a new computer, you must run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. You can use the optional Operating System media for this process or you can create a wizard disk with the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System Media

NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System media. This media is optional and may not be included

with certain computers.

To prepare a new computer for the file transfer:

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Tools

→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

When the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Start→

welcome screen appears, click

All Programs→

Transferring Information to a New Computer 25

Accessories→ System

Page 26

On the

When the click

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

→ Next

Now go to your old computer

at this time.

screen, click

screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do

New Computer→

I will use the wizard from the Windows XP

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

Under

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

, click

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

What do you want to transfer?

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Finish

Operating System

screen, click

Transfer files and settings→ Next

Old Computer→

media.

Perform additional tasks

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Completing the Collection Phase

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

screen, select the method you chose for transferring your

The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer.

screen appears.

not

When all of the settings and files have been applied, the

Click

Finished

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System Media

and restart the new computer.

Finished

screen appears.

To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the Operating System media, you must create a wizard disk that will allow you to create a backup image file to removable media.

To create a wizard disk, use your new computer with Windows XP and perform the following steps:

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Tools

→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

When the

On the

drive

Insert the removable media, such as a writable CD, and click OK.

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

→

Next.

screen, click

Start→

All Programs→

Accessories→ System

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer→

I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following

26 Transferring Information to a New Computer

Page 27

When the disk creation completes and the

do not

click

Go to the old computer.

Now go to your old computer

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click

Start→

In the media) and click

On the

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Finish

Run

Open

field on the

Run

window, browse to the path for

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

What do you want to transfer?

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

fastwiz

(on the appropriate removable

welcome screen, click

Old Computer→

Completing the Collection Phase

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

. Follow the instructions on the screen.

screen, select the method you chose for transferring your

The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer.

message appears,

screen appears.

When all of the settings and files have been applied, the

Click

Finished

NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search support.dell.com for document #154781, titled What Are

The Different Methods To Transfer Files From My Old Computer To My New Dell™ Computer Using the Microsoft Windows

NOTE: Access to the Dell™ Knowledge Base document may not be available in certain countries.

and restart the new computer.

XP Operating System?.

Finished

screen appears.

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and then click

Windows Easy Transfer.

In the

User Account Control

Click

Start a new transfer

Follow the instructions provided on the screen by the Windows Easy Transfer wizard.

dialog box, click

Continue a transfer in progress

Continue

Transfer files and settings→

Start

Transferring Information to a New Computer 27

Page 28

28 Transferring Information to a New Computer

Page 29

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or

separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer.

For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.

NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer to an

electrical outlet the first time you use the computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, check the Power Meter in Power Options (see "Accessing Power Options Properties" on page 33).

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.

NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on

how often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer.

NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD.

Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:

•Using optical drives.

• Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, ExpressCards, media memory cards, or USB devices.

• Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as complex 3D graphics applications.

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33 for information about accessing Windows Power Options Properties or Dell QuickSet, which you can use to configure power management settings.

You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer (see "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 30). You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33).

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

only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The lithium ion battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from another computer with your computer.

Using a Battery 29

Page 30

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 "Battery Disposal" in the

CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture, incinerate,

disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.

Product Information Guide

Checking the Battery Charge

The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and battery meter icon ( or ), the battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge.

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, battery health, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer.

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

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, doubleclick the battery meter icon ( or ) on the taskbar.

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

Charge Gauge

By either pressing once or pressing and holding the status button on the charge gauge on the battery, you can check:

• Battery charge (check by pressing and

• Battery health (check by pressing and

The battery operating time is largely determined by the number of times it is charged. After hundreds of charge and discharge cycles, batteries lose some charge capacity—or battery health. That is, a battery can show a status of "charged" but maintain a reduced charge capacity (health).

Check the Battery Charge

To check the battery charge, press and release the status button on the battery 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.

30 Using a Battery

releasing

holding

the status button)

Page 31

Check the Battery Health

NOTE: You can check battery health in one of two ways: by using the charge gauge on the battery as described

below and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

To check the battery health using the charge gauge, press and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See "Battery" on page 135 for more information about the battery operating time.

Low-Battery Warning

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

connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.

A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer enters hibernate mode when the battery charge is at a critically low level.

You can change the settings for the battery alarms in QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.

Conserving Battery Power

Perform the following actions to conserve battery power:

• Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible because battery life is largely determined by the number of times the battery is used and recharged.

• Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time. See "Power Management Modes" on page 31.

• Use the Power Management Wizard or the optimize your computer’s power usage. These options can also be set to change when you press the power button, close the display, or press <Fn><Esc>.

Power Options Properties

window to select options to

NOTE: See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33 for information on conserving battery power.

Power Management Modes

Standby and Sleep Mode

Standby mode (sleep mode in Microsoft Windows Vista®) conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a predetermined period of inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby or sleep mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby or sleep mode.

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Page 32

NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby or sleep mode, it may lose data.

To enter standby mode in Windows XP, click the Start button, click Turn off computer, and then click Stand by.

To enter sleep mode in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Sleep.

Depending on how you set the power management options in the Power Options Properties window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, you may also use one of the following methods:

• Press the power button.

• Close the display.

• Press <Fn><Esc>.

To exit standby or sleep mode, press the power button or open the display, depending on how you set the power management options. You cannot make the computer exit standby or sleep mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad.

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 hibernate mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering hibernate mode.

NOTICE: You cannot remove devices or undock your computer while your computer is in hibernate mode.

Your computer enters hibernate mode if the battery charge level becomes critically low.

To manually enter hibernate mode in Windows XP, click the Start button, click Turn off computer, press and hold <Shift>, and then click Hibernate.

To manually enter hibernate mode in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Hibernate.

Depending on how you set the power management options in the Power Options Properties window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, you may also use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:

• Press the power button.

• Close the display.

NOTE: Some PC Cards or Express Cards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode.

Remove and reinsert the card (see "Removing a PC Card or Blank" on page 58), or restart (reboot) your computer.

To exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit hibernate mode. You cannot make the computer exit hibernate mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad. For more information on hibernate mode, see the documentation that came with your operating system.

32 Using a Battery

Page 33

Configuring Power Management Settings

You can use the QuickSet Power Management Wizard or Windows Power Options Properties to configure the power management settings on your computer. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and click Help.

Accessing Power Options Properties

Windows XP

Click the Start button, point to Control Panel → Performance and Maintenance, and then click Power Options

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , click Control Panel → System and Maintenance and then click Power Options.

Charging the Battery

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.

NOTE: With Dell™ ExpressCharge™, when the computer is turned off, the AC adapter charges a completely

discharged battery to 80 percent in about 1 hour and to 100 percent in approximately 2 hours. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer for as long as you like. The battery’s internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.

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.

The battery is too hot to start charging if the light flashes alternately green and orange. 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 information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 85.

Replacing the Battery

CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only

with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell™ computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter from the

electrical outlet and the computer, disconnect the modem from the wall connector and computer, and remove any other external cables from the computer.

NOTICE: You must remove all external cables from the computer to avoid possible connector damage.

Using a Battery 33

Page 34

To remove the battery:

If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.

Ensure that the computer is turned off.

Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the battery from the bay.

1 battery-bay latch releases (2) 2 battery

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASES (2) — Releases the battery.

BATTERY — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an

electrical outlet.

To replace the battery, place the battery in the bay and press down until the battery-bay latch release clicks.

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 (see "Charging the Battery" on page 33) before you use it.

34 Using a Battery

Page 35

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

numeric keypad

The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, hold down <Fn> and press the desired key.

• To enable the keypad, press <Num Lk>. The light indicates that the keypad is active.

• To disable the keypad, press <Num Lk> again.

Key Combinations

System Functions

<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Ta sk M ana ger window.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 35

Page 36

Battery

<Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter (see "Dell™

QuickSet Battery Meter" on page 30).

Optical Drive Tray

<Fn><F10> Ejects the tray out of the drive if Dell QuickSet is

installed (see "Dell™ QuickSet" on page 121).

Display Functions

<Fn><F8> Switches the video image to the next display option. The

options include the integrated display, an external monitor, and both displays simultaneously.

<Fn><F7> Scales between wide-screen and standard aspect ratio

video resolutions.

<Fn> and left-arrow key Activates the ambient light sensor, which controls

brightness of the display based on light level in the current environment.

<Fn> and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not

on an external monitor).

<Fn> and down-arrow key Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not

on an external monitor).

Power Management

<Fn><Esc> Activates a power management mode. You can

reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window (see "Power Management Modes" on page 31).

<Fn><F1> Puts the computer into hibernate mode. Dell QuickSet is

required (see "Dell™ QuickSet" on page 121).

Speaker Functions

<Fn><Page Up> Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and

external speakers, if attached.

<Fn><Page Dn> Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and

external speakers, if attached.

36 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 37

<Fn><End> Enables and disables the integrated speakers and external

speakers, if attached.

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Windows logo key and <m> Minimizes all open windows

Windows logo key and <Shift><m> Restores all minimized windows. This key

combination functions as a toggle to restore minimized windows following the use of the Windows logo key and <m> key combination.

Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer.

Windows logo key and <r> Opens the Run dialog box.

Windows logo key and <f> Opens the Search Results dialog box.

Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f> Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if

the computer is connected to a network).

Windows logo key and <Pause> Opens the System Properties dialog box.

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.

Touch Pad

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.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 37

Page 38

1 track stick buttons 2 touch pad 3 touch pad buttons

TRACK STICK BUTTONS — Provide the functionality of a mouse.

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse.

TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Provide the functionality of a mouse.

• 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 twice on the touch pad. On the second tap, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected object by sliding your finger over the surface.

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

You can also use the track stick to move the cursor. Press the track stick left, right, up, or down to change the direction of the cursor on the display. Use the track stick and track stick buttons as you would use a mouse.

38 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 39

Fingerprint Reader (optional)

1 fingerprint reader (optional)

NOTE: The fingerprint reader is optional and may not be installed on your computer. For information on how to

activate and use the security management software that controls the fingerprint reader, see "Security Management Software" on page 64.

Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick

You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad and track stick or adjust their settings.

Open the Control Panel, and then click Mouse. For information about the Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.

In the

Mouse Properties

•Click the

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Device Select

Tou ch Pad

window:

tab to disable the touch pad and track stick.

tab to adjust touch pad and track stick settings.

Changing the Track Stick Cap

You can replace your track stick cap if it wears down from prolonged use. You can purchase additional caps by visiting the Dell website at dell.com.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 39

Page 40

Pull the cap off the track stick.

Align the new cap over the square track-stick post and gently press the cap down onto the post.

NOTICE: The track stick can damage the display if it is not properly seated on the post.

Test the track stick to ensure that the cap is seated properly.

40 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 41

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the display brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard.

NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors or

projectors that you attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter may appear, but the brightness level on the external device does not change.

You can press the following keys to adjust display brightness:

• Press <Fn> and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

• Press <Fn> and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

Switching the Video Image From Your Computer Display to a Projector

When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector) attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the external device.

Press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously.

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper on the Screen: Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image may appear blurry or text may

be hard to read if you change the resolution to one not supported by your computer and display. Before you change any of the display settings, make a note of the current settings so you can change back to the previous settings if you need to.

Using the Display 41

Page 42

You can enhance the legibility of text and change the appearance of images on the screen by adjusting display resolution. As you increase resolution, items appear smaller on the screen. In contrast, lower resolution causes text and images to appear larger and can benefit people with vision impairments. To display a program at a specific resolution, both the video card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.

NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with your Dell-

installed operating system.

If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values.

To set the display resolution and refresh rate for your display, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Click

Start→

Under

Display

In the

Try different settings for

NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen.

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task...

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

Display Properties

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

window, click the

Color quality

Settings

and

Screen resolution

tab.

or pick a Control Panel icon

, click

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

window, under

, click

Adjust screen resolution

Resolution

decrease/increase the screen resolution.

Click

How do I get the best display?

for further instructions.

If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode. In pan mode, the entire video image cannot be displayed at one time, and the taskbar that usually appears at the bottom of the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the parts of the video image that are not visible, you can use the touch pad or track stick to "pan" (or move) the image up, down, left, and right.

NOTICE: You can damage an external monitor by using an unsupported refresh rate. Before adjusting the refresh

rate on an external monitor, see the user’s guide for the monitor.

42 Using the Display

Control Panel

, slide the slide bar to the left/right to

Page 43

Using an External Monitor Simultaneously as an Extension of Your Computer Display

You can attach an external monitor or projector to your computer and use it as an extension of your display (known as "dual independent display" or "extended desktop" mode). This mode allows you to use both screens independently and drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

To use extended desktop mode, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Connect the external monitor, TV, or projector to the computer.

Click

Start→

Under

Display

In the

NOTE: If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust

automatically to the closest supported values. For more information, see your operating system documentation.

Click the monitor 2 icon, click the

Change

If prompted to restart the computer, click

If prompted, click OK to resize your desktop.

If prompted, click

Click OK to close the

To disable dual independent display mode:

Click the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the then click

If necessary, press <Fn><F8> to bring the screen image back to the computer display.

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display Properties

Screen Area

Settings

Apply

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

to the appropriate sizes for both displays and click

Ye s

to keep the settings.

Display Properties

tab in the

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

window, click the

Display Properties

Settings

Extend my Windows desktop...

Apply the new color setting without restarting

window.

Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor

tab.

window.

or pick a Control Panel icon

check box, and then click

Apply

and click

option, and

, click

Apply

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click

Under

Appearance and Personalization

, click

Control Panel

Adjust screen resolution

Using the Display 43

Page 44

In the

Display Settings

monitor

Click OK to close the

To disable extended desktop mode:

In the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the

Apply

check box, and then click

Display Settings

window, click the monitor 2 icon, click the

Apply

Display Settings

window, click the

window.

Settings

Extend the desktop onto this monitor

tab.

Extend the desktop onto this

option, and then click

Using an External Monitor as Your Primary Display: Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays

To swap your primary and secondary display designations (for example, to use your external monitor as your primary display after docking), perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Click the

Under

Display

Click the

See the documentation that came with your video card for additional information.

Start

button and click

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Settings

, click the area you want to change, or under

tab→

Control Panel

, click

Appearance and Themes

Advanced→

Displays

tab.

or pick a Control Panel icon

, click

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

box, and then click

Click OK to close the

44 Using the Display

Control Panel

, click

Adjust screen resolution

window, click the monitor 2 icon, click the

Apply

Display Settings

window.

This is my main monitor

check

Page 45

Setting Up and Using Networks

Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer, or a network. For example, with a network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer, access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or access the Internet. You can set up a local area network (LAN) using a network or broadband modem cable or set up a wireless LAN (WLAN).

The Microsoft® Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® operating systems provide wizards to help guide you through the process of networking computers. For more information about Networking, see the Windows Help and Support Center (see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13).

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

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

Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.

NOTE: Insert the cable connector until it clicks into place, and then gently pull the cable to ensure that it

is securely attached.

Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device or a network wall connector.

NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall connector.

Setting Up and Using Networks 45

Page 46

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System

Click

Start→

Checklist for creating a network

NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the

integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2).

Complete the checklist.

Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions in the wizard.

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications→

Network Setup Wizard→ Next

→

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and then click

network

Select an option under

Click

Choose a connection option

, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

Connect To→ Set up a connection or

46 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 47

Wireless Local Area Network

A WLAN is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each computer. In a WLAN, a radio communications device called an access point or wireless router connects network computers and provides Internet, or network, access. The access point or wireless router and the wireless network card in the computer communicate by broadcasting data from their antennas over the air waves.

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:

• High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL)

• A broadband modem that is connected and working

• A wireless router or access point

• A wireless network card for each computer that you want to connect to your WLAN

• A network cable with a network (RJ-45) connector

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To confirm that your computer has a wireless network card and to determine the type of card, use one of the following:

•The

• The order confirmation for your computer

Start

button and the

Connect To

option

Start Button and Connect To Option

In Microsoft Windows XP, click Start→ Connect To→ Show all connections.

In Microsoft Windows Vista, click → Connect To→ View network computers and devices.

NOTE: If your computer is set to the Classic Start menu option, you can view network connections by clicking the

Start→ Settings→ Network Connections. If Wireless Network Connection does not appear, you may not have a wireless network card. If Wireless Network Connection does not appear under LAN or High-Speed Internet, you may not have a wireless network card.

If Wireless Network Connection appears, you have a wireless network card. To view detailed information about the wireless network card:

Right-click

Click

The model number are listed on the

Wireless Network Connection

Properties

Wireless Network Connection Properties

General

tab.

window appears. The wireless network card’s name and

Setting Up and Using Networks 47

Page 48

The Order Confirmation for Your Computer

The order confirmation that you received when you ordered your computer lists the hardware and software that shipped with your computer.

Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem

Contact your Internet service provider (ISP) to obtain specific information about the connection requirements for your broadband modem.

Ensure that you have wired Internet access through your broadband modem before you attempt to set up a wireless Internet connection (see "Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable" on page 45).

Install any software required for your wireless router. Your wireless router may have been shipped with an installation CD. Installation CDs usually contain installation and troubleshooting information. Install the required software according to the instructions provided by the router manufacturer.

Shut down your computer and any other wireless-enabled computers in the vicinity through the or menu.

Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.

Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem.

Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that there is no power connected to the router.

NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before you continue with the

network setup.

Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered broadband modem.

Connect the other end of the network cable into the Internet network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered wireless router.

Ensure that no network or USB cables other than the network cable connecting the modem and the wireless router are connected to the broadband modem.

Start

NOTE: Restart your wireless equipment in the order described below to prevent a potential connection failure.

Tu rn on

only

your broadband modem and wait for at least 2 minutes for the broadband modem to

stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to step 12.

Turn on your wireless router and wait for at least 2 minutes for the wireless router to stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to the step 13.

Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.

See the documentation that came with your wireless router to set up the wireless router:

• Establish communication between your computer and your wireless router.

• Configure your wireless router to communicate with your broadband router.

48 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 49

• Find out your wireless router’s broadcast name. The technical term for the name of your router’s

broadcast name is Service Set Identifier (SSID) or network name.

If necessary, configure your wireless network card to connect to the wireless network (see "Connecting to a WLAN" on page 49).

Connecting to a WLAN

NOTE: Before you connect to a WLAN, ensure that you have followed the instructions in "Wireless Local Area

Network" on page 47.

NOTE: The following networking instructions do not apply to internal cards with Bluetooth

or cellular products.

This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary. See "Wireless Local Area Network" on page 47 for more information about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.

Your wireless network card requires specific software and drivers for connecting to a network. The software is already installed.

NOTE: If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions in the user documentation for your wireless

network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on page 47.

Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager

Depending on the software installed on your computer, different wireless configuration utilities may manage your network devices:

• Your wireless network card’s client utility

• The Windows XP or Windows Vista operating system

In Windows XP:

To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network card in Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Right-click the

Settings→

Control Panel→

Wireless Network Connection

Network Connections

icon, and then click

View Available Wireless Networks

If the Choose a wireless network window states Windows cannot configure this connection, the wireless network card’s client utility is managing the wireless network card.

If the Choose a wireless network window states Click an item in the list below to connect to a wireless network in range or to get more information, the Windows XP operating system is managing the wireless network card.

In Windows Vista:

To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network card in Windows Vista:

wireless technology

Setting Up and Using Networks 49

Page 50

Click

Double-click a profile to open the wireless network properties screen.

→

Connect To→ Manage wireless networks.

For specific information about the wireless configuration utility installed on your computer, see your wireless network documentation in the Windows Help and Support Center (see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13).

Completing the Connection to the WLAN

When you turn on your computer and a network (for which your computer is not configured) is detected in the area, a pop-up appears near the network icon in the notification area (in the lower-right corner of the Windows desktop).

Follow the instructions provided in any utility prompts that appear on your screen.

Once you have configured your computer for the wireless network that you selected, another pop-up notifies you that your computer is connected to that network.

Thereafter, whenever you log on to your computer within the range of the wireless network that you selected, the same pop-up notifies you of the wireless network connection.

NOTE:

If you select a secure network, you must enter a Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) or WiFi Protected Access (WPA) key when prompted. Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information.

NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.

Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card

NOTE: If you are unable to connect to a wireless network, ensure that you have all the components for

establishing a WLAN (see "What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection" on page 47).

To enable or disable the network card, see "Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network" on page 52.

Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet

The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. To turn the wireless activity indicator on or off, click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Hotkey Popups. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is not checked, the indicator is on. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is checked, the indicator is off.

The wireless activity indicator displays whether your computer’s integrated wireless devices are enabled or disabled. When you turn the wireless networking function on or off, the wireless activity indicator changes to display the status.

For more information about the Dell QuickSet wireless activity indicator, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Help.

50 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 51

Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)

A Mobile Broadband network, also known as a Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN), is a high-speed digital cellular network that provides Internet access over a much wider geographical area than a WLAN, which typically covers only from 100 to 1000 feet. Your computer can maintain Mobile Broadband network access as long as the computer is within a cellular-data coverage zone. Contact your service provider for coverage of a high-speed digital cellular network.

NOTE: Even if you are able to make a call from your cellular phone in a specific geographical location, that

location may not necessarily be within a cellular-data coverage zone.

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

NOTE: Depending on your computer, you can use either a Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or Mini-Card, but not

both, to establish a Mobile Broadband network connection.

To set up a Mobile Broadband network connection, you need:

• A Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or activated Mini-Card (depending on your computer’s configuration)

NOTE: For instructions on using ExpressCards, see "Installing a PC Card or an ExpressCard" on page 56.

• An activated Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or activated Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) for your service provider

• The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility (already installed on your computer if you purchased the card when you purchased your computer, or on the CD that accompanied your card if purchased separately from your computer)

If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the user’s guide for instructions. The user’s guide is available through the Windows Help and Support Center (see card if you purchased it separately from your computer.

"Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13

Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility

) or on the CD that accompanied your

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To determine your computer configuration, see one of the following:

• Your order confirmation

• Microsoft Windows Help and Support Center

To check your Mobile Broadband card in the Windows Help and Support Center:

Click

problems

Under

this computer.

Start→

Help and Support→

Too ls

, click

My Computer Information→

Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose

Find information about the hardware installed on

Setting Up and Using Networks 51

Page 52

On the My Computer Information - Hardware screen, you can view the type of Mobile Broadband card installed in your computer as well as other hardware components.

NOTE: The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems.

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mobile Broadband ExpressCards or Mini-Cards. They do not apply to

internal cards with wireless technology.

NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate Mobile Broadband service through your cellular

service provider. For instructions and for additional information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide available through the Windows Help and Support Center (see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13). The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and on the CD included with your Mobile Broadband card if you purchased the card separately from your computer.

Use the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility to establish and manage a Mobile Broadband network connection to the Internet:

Click the

Click

Follow the instructions on the screen to manage the network connection with the utility.

Click

Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon

Connect

NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button.

Start→ All Programs→

Dell Wireless Broadband

Dell Wireless

and follow the instructions on the screen.

on the Windows desktop, to run the utility.

NOTE: If you are unable to connect to a Mobile Broadband network, ensure that you have all the components for

establishing a Mobile Broadband connection (see "What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection" on page 51), and then verify that your Mobile Broadband card is enabled by verifying the setting of the wireless switch.

You can turn your Mobile Broadband card on and off using the wireless switch on your computer.

You can turn your computer’s wireless devices on and off with the wireless switch on the left side of the computer (see "Left Side View" on page 18).

If the switch is in the "on" position, move the switch to the "off" position to disable the switch and the Mobile Broadband card. If the switch is in the "off" position, move the switch to the "on" position to enable the switch and the Dell Mobile Broadband card. For information about the wireless switch positions, see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 53

To monitor the status of your wireless device, see "Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet" on page 50.

52 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 53

Managing Your Network Settings Through the Dell QuickSet Location Profiler

The Dell QuickSet Location Profiler helps you manage network settings that correspond to your computer’s physical location. It includes two categories of profile settings:

• Location Profile Settings

• General Mobility Settings

You can use Location Profile Settings to create profiles for accessing the Internet with your computer in your office, home, or other public places with Internet services. General Mobility Settings allows you to change the way network connections are handled. The profiles consist of different network settings and equipment that you need when using your computer in different locations.

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

Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

The wireless switch on your Dell computer uses the Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator to scan specifically for WiFi WLAN in your vicinity. For more information about the wireless switch, see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 53.

To scan for WiFi WLAN, slide and hold the switch in the "momentary" position for a few seconds. The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator functions regardless of whether your computer is turned on or off, in hibernate mode, or in standby mode, as long as the switch is configured through Dell QuickSet or the BIOS (system setup program) to control WiFi network connections.

Because the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator is disabled and not configured for use when your computer is shipped to you, you must first use Dell QuickSet to enable and configure the switch to control WiFi network connections.

NOTE: The Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator light appears only when the computer is turned off and wireless

networking is activated in the system setup program. While working in Microsoft Windows operating systems, the light is designed not to appear.

Microsoft

Windows Firewall provides basic protection from unauthorized access to your computer while it is connected to the Internet. Windows Firewall is automatically enabled when you run the Network Setup Wizard.

When Windows Firewall is enabled for a network connection, the firewall icon appears with a red background in the Network Connections section of the Control Panel.

NOTE: Enabling Windows Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking software.

For more information, click and Support Center" on page 13.

Windows

Firewall

Start→ Control Panel→ Security→ Windows Firewall

Setting Up and Using Networks 53

, or see "Windows Help

Page 54

54 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 55

Using Cards

Card Types

This computer supports the following PC Cards, 34-mm ExpressCard (with adapter), SD (Secure Digital) card, and smart cards.

See "Installing a Smart Card" on page 62 for more information on smart cards.

See "Specifications" on page 131 for information on supported card types.

NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device.

The PC Card slot has one connector that supports a single Type I or Type II card. The PC Card slot supports CardBus technology and extended PC Cards. "Type" of card refers to its thickness, not its functionality.

1 54-mm ExpressCard

(not supported by your computer)

1 32

2 34-mm ExpressCard

(supported with an adapter)

3 PC Card

(supported by your computer)

Using Cards 55

Page 56

Card Blanks

Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the card slots. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no card is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer. To remove the blank, see "Removing a PC Card or Blank" on page 58.

PC Cards

See "PC Card/Express Card" on page 131 for information on supported PC Cards.

NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device.

PC Card Blanks

Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the PC Card slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no PC Card is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer.

To remove the blank, see "Removing a PC Card or Blank" on page 58.

Extended PC Cards

An extended PC Card (for example, a wireless network adapter) is longer than a standard PC Card and extends outside the computer. Follow these precautions when using extended PC Cards:

• Protect the exposed end of an installed card. Striking the end of the card can damage the system board.

• Always remove an extended PC Card before you pack the computer in its carrying case.

Installing a PC Card or an ExpressCard

You can install a PC Card or ExpressCard in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card.

PC Cards and ExpressCards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) to indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

To install a PC Card:

Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the slot and the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need to be in the "in" position before you insert the card.

56 Using Cards

and see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 104.

Product

Page 57

Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.

If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again.

1 PC Card

The computer recognizes most PC Cards and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the floppy disk or CD that came with the PC Card.

To install an ExpressCard:

Place the ExpressCard in the PC Card adapter (the adapter is included with the ExpressCard).

Install the ExpressCard with adapter the same way as a PC Card (see "PC Cards" on page 56).

Using Cards 57

Page 58

1 2

1 slot 2 ExpressCard

Removing a PC Card or Blank

NOTICE: Use the PC Card configuration utility (click the icon in the taskbar) to select a card and stop it from

functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration utility, you could lose data. Do not attempt to eject a card by pulling its cable, if one is attached.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

Press the latch and remove the card or blank. For some latches, you must press the latch twice: once to pop the latch out, and then a second time to pop the card out.

Remove the card or blank.

Product

58 Using Cards

Page 59

1 release button 2 PC Card

Installing or Removing a Secure Digital (SD) Card

Ensure that the card orientation is correct; the gold-metal contacts should be facing downward.

Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.

To remove a secure digital card, press in on the card and it will spring outward. Remove the card from the computer.

Using Cards 59

Page 60

Extended Cards

An extended card (for example, a wireless network adapter) is longer than a standard card and extends outside the computer. Follow these precautions when using extended cards:

• Protect the exposed end of an installed card. Striking the end of the card can damage the system board.

• Always remove an extended card before you pack the computer in its carrying case.

60 Using Cards

Page 61

Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock

NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock.

A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell™ computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device.

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

computer.

Smart Card

NOTE: For information on how to secure your computer while traveling, see "Traveling With Your Computer"

on page 123.

About Smart Cards

Smart cards are portable credit-card shaped devices with internal integrated circuits. The top surface of the smart card usually contains an embedded processor under the gold contact pad. The combination of the small size and integrated circuits make smart cards valuable tools for security, data storage, and special programs. Using smart cards can improve system security by combining something a user has (the smart card) with something only the user should know (a PIN) to provide more secure user-authentication than passwords alone.

Securing Your Computer 61

Page 62

Installing a Smart Card

You can install a smart card in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card.

To install a smart card:

Hold the card so that the gold contact pad is facing upward and pointing toward the smart card slot.

1 gold contact pad 2 smart card (top)

Slide the smart card into the smart card slot until the card is completely seated in its connector. The smart card will protrude approximately 1/2 inch from the slot. The smart card slot is located below the PC Card slot.

If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again.

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1 PC Card slot 2 smart card 3 smart-card slot

Passwords

NOTE: Passwords are disabled when you receive your computer.

A primary (or system) password, an administrator password, and a hard drive password all prevent unauthorized access to your computer in different ways. The following table identifies types and features of passwords available on your computer.

Type of Password Features

Primary (or system)

Administrator

Hard drive

NOTE: Some hard drives do not support hard drive passwords.

NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However, they are not

foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as smart cards, data encryption programs, or PC Cards with encryption features.

When using passwords, observe the following guidelines:

• Choose passwords that you can remember, but not ones that are easy to guess. For example, do not use the names of family members or pets for passwords.

• It is recommended that you do not write down passwords. If you do write it down, however, ensure that the password is stored in a secure place.

• Do not share passwords with other people.

• Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password(s).

• Protects the computer from unauthorized access

• Gives system administrators or service technicians access to computers for repair or reconfiguration

• Allows you to restrict access to system setup in the same way a primary password restricts access to the computer

• Can be used instead of the primary password

• Helps protect the data on your hard drive or external hard drive (if one is being used) from unauthorized access

NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However, they are not

foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as smart cards, data encryption programs, or PC Cards with encryption features.

If you forget any of your passwords, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128). For your protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.

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Using a Primary (or System) Password

The primary password allows you to protect the computer from unauthorized access.

When you first start your computer, you must assign a primary password at the prompt.

If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state.

NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also disabled.

To add or change passwords, access User Accounts from the Control Panel.

If you have assigned an administrator password, you can use it instead of the primary password. The computer does not specifically prompt you for the administrator password.

Using an Administrator Password

The administrator password is designed to give system administrators or service technicians access to computers for repair or reconfiguration. The administrators or technicians can assign identical administrator passwords to groups of computers, allowing you to assign a unique primary password.

To set or change administrator passwords, access User Accounts from the Control Panel.

When you set an administrator password, the Configure Setup option becomes available in system setup. The Configure Setup option allows you to restrict access to system setup in the same way that a primary password restricts access to the computer.

The administrator password can be used instead of the primary password. Whenever you are prompted to enter the primary password, you can enter the administrator password.

NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also disabled.

NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the computer, but it does not provide access to the hard

drive when a hard drive password is assigned.

If you forget the primary password and do not have an administrator password assigned, or if you have both a primary and an administrator password assigned but forget them both, contact your system administrator or contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128).

Using a Hard Drive Password

The hard drive password helps protect the data on your hard drive from unauthorized access. You can also assign a password for an external hard drive (if one is being used) that can be the same as or different from the password for the primary hard drive.

To assign or change a hard drive password, enter system setup (see "System Setup Program" on page 91).

After assigning a hard drive password, you must enter it each time you turn on the computer and each time you restore the computer to normal operation from standby mode.

If the hard drive password is enabled, you must enter it each time you turn on the computer: A message appears asking for the hard drive password.

To continue, enter your password (with no more than eight characters) and press <Enter>.

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If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state.

If you enter the wrong password, a message tells you that the password is invalid. Press <Enter> to try again.

If you do not enter the correct password in three attempts, the computer tries to start from another bootable device if the Boot First Device option in system setup is set to allow start-up from another device. If the Boot First Device option is not set to allow the computer to start from another device, the computer returns to the operating state it was in when you turned it on.

If the hard drive password, the external hard-drive password, and the primary password are the same, the computer prompts you only for the primary password. If the hard drive password is different from the primary password, the computer prompts you for both. Two different passwords provide greater security.

NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the computer, but it does not provide access to the hard

drive when a hard drive password is assigned.

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

NOTE: Computers shipping into China are not equipped with the TPM feature.

NOTE: The TPM feature supports encryption only if the operating system supports TPM. For more information, see

the TPM software documentation and the help files that came with the software.

TPM is a hardware-based security feature that can be used to create and manage computer-generated encryption keys. When combined with security software, the TPM enhances existing network and computer security by enabling features such as file protection capabilities and protected e-mail. The TPM feature is enabled through a system setup option.

NOTICE: To secure your TPM data and encryption keys, follow the backup procedures documented in the

Broadcom Secure Foundation Getting Started Guide. In the event of these backups being incomplete, lost, or damaged, Dell will be unable to assist in the recovery of encrypted data.

Enabling the TPM Feature

Enable the TPM software:

Restart the computer and press <F2> during the Power On Self Test to enter the system setup program.

Select

Security→

Under

TPM Security

Press <Esc> to exit the setup program.

If prompted, click

Activate the TPM setup program:

Restart the computer and press <F2> during the Power On Self Test to enter the system setup program.

Select

Security→

TPM Security

and press <Enter>.

, select On.

Save/Exit

TPM Activation

and press <Enter>.

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Under

TPM Activation

NOTE: You only need to activate the program once.

Once the process is complete, the computer either restarts automatically or prompts you to restart your computer.

, select

Activate

and press <Enter>.

Security Management Software

The security management software is designed to utilize four different features to help you secure your computer:

• Log-in management

• Pre-boot authentication (using a fingerprint reader, smart card, or password)

•Encryption

• Private information management

Using the Security Management Software

For information about how to use the software and the different security features, see the Getting Started Guide for the software:

Click Start

→

All Programs→ Wave EMBASSY Trust Suite→ Getting Started Guide

Computer Tracking Software

Computer tracking software may enable you to locate your computer if it is lost or stolen. The software is optional and may be purchased when you order your Dell™ computer, or you can contact your Dell sales representative for information about this security feature.

NOTE: Computer tracking software may not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: If you have computer tracking software and your computer is lost or stolen, you must contact the company

that provides the tracking service to report the missing computer.

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

• Call a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer. Include the Service Tag in your description of the computer. Ask that a case number be assigned and write down the number, along with the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. If possible, obtain the name of the investigating officer.

NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area. If you do not

know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.

• If the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of the company.

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• Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer. Provide the computer Service Tag, the case number, and the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency to which you reported the missing computer. If possible, give the name of the investigating officer.

The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the computer Service Tag and record the computer as missing or stolen. If someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives your Service Tag, the computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen. The representative will attempt to get the phone number and address of the caller. Dell will then contact the law enforcement agency to which you reported of the missing computer.

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68 Securing Your Computer

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Cleaning Your Computer

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide

Computer, Keyboard, and Display

CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and remove

any installed batteries. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.

• Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from between the keys on the keyboard.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer or display, do not spray cleaning solution directly onto the display.

Only use products specifically designed for cleaning displays, and follow the instructions that are included with the product.

• Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with either water or a display cleaner, and wipe the display until it is clean.

• Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water and wipe the computer and keyboard. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.

Touch Pad

Shut down and turn off your computer.

Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets.

Remove any installed batteries (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 33).

Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe it gently across the surface of the touch pad. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.

Floppy Drive

NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign the heads which

prevents the drive from operating.

Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain pretreated floppy disks to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation.

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Optical Disks

NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the optical drive, and follow the instructions that come

with the compressed-air product. Never touch the lens in the drive.

If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your optical disks, try cleaning them.

Hold the disk by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disk.

With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disk (the unlabeled side) in a straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disk.

For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also purchase commercial products that clean disks and provide some protection from dust, fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are also safe to use on DVDs.

70 Cleaning Your Computer

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Troubleshooting

Dell Technical Update Service

The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications.

To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.

Dell Diagnostics

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media is optional and may not ship with your computer.

Enter the system setup program, review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test displays in the system setup program and is active.

Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities media.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128 ).

NOTE: If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that

came with your docking device for instructions.

Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly.

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

Start the Dell Diagnostics in one of the following two ways:

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When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press <Enter>.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the

Microsoft® Windows® desktop; then, shut down your computer and try again.

NOTE: Before attempting option B, the computer must be powered down completely.

Press and hold the <Fn> key while powering the computer on.

NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell

Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media.

The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment (PSA), a series of initial tests of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, etc.

• During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.

• If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s) and

see

"Contacting Dell" on page 128

If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you will receive the message, "

Booting

Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition.Press any key to continue"

Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities media

Insert the

Shut down and restart the computer.

When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.

Drivers and Utilities

media.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the

Microsoft® Windows® desktop; then, shut down your computer and try again.

NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer boots

according to the devices specified in the system setup program.

When the boot device list appears, highlight

Select the

Ty p e 1 to start the CD menu and press <Enter> to proceed.

Select

Boot from CD-ROM

option from the menu that appears and press <Enter>.

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

CD/DVD/CD-RW

and press <Enter>.

from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select

the version appropriate for your computer.

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

screen appears, select the test you want to run.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the you want.

NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on your computer.

72 Troubleshooting

Main Menu

screen appears, click the button for the option

Page 73

Option Function Test Memory Run the stand-alone memory test Test System Run System Diagnostics Exit Exit the Diagnostics

After you have selected the

NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Test from the menu below to run a more thorough

check of devices in the computer.

Option Function Express Test Performs a quick test of devices in the

system. This typically can take 10 to 20 minutes.

Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices in

the system. This typically can take an hour or more.

Custom Test Use to test a specific device or

customize the tests to be run.

Symptom Tree This option allows you to select tests

based on a symptom of the problem you are having. This option lists the most common symptoms.

Test System

option from the main menu, the following menu appears.

If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and contact Dell (see on page 128

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell,

If you run a test from the

technical support will ask for your Service Tag.

Custom Test

Symptom Tree

option, click the applicable tab

"Contacting Dell"

described in the following table for more information.

Tab Function Results Displays the results of the test and any

error conditions encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered,

error codes, and the problem description.

Troubleshooting 73

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Tab Function (continued) Help Describes the test and may indicate

requirements for running the test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration

for the selected device. The Dell Diagnostics obtains

configuration information for all devices from system setup, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names of all the components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.

Parameters Allows you to customize the test by

changing the test settings.

When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the

Remove the Dell D

rivers and Utilities

media (if applicable).

Main Menu

screen.

Dell Support Utility

screen. To exit the Dell

The Dell Support Utility is installed on your computer and available from the Dell Support, , icon on the taskbar or from the Start button. Use this support utility for self-support information, software updates, and health scans of your computing environment.

Accessing the Dell Support Utility

Access the Dell Support Utility from the icon on the taskbar or from the Start menu.

If the Dell Support icon does not appear in your taskbar:

Click

Start→ All Programs→ Dell Support→

Ensure that the

Show icon on the taskbar

Dell Support Settings

option is checked.

NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to support.dell.com and download the software.

The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment.

The icon in the taskbar functions differently when you click, double-click, or right-click the icon.

Clicking the Dell Support Icon

Click or right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:

74 Troubleshooting

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• Check your computing environment

• View the Dell Support Utility settings

• Access the help file for the Dell Support Utility

• View frequently asked questions

• Learn more about the Dell Support Utility

• Turn the Dell Support Utility off

Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon

Double-click the icon to manually check your computing environment, view frequently asked questions, access the help file for the Dell Support Utility, and view Dell Support settings.

For more information about the Dell Support Utility, click the question mark (?) at the top of the Dell Support screen.

Drive Problems

™

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

Product

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71) as you complete these checks.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE —

In Windows XP:

•Click

Start→

My Computer

In Windows Vista®:

• Click the Windows Vista Start button,

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.

EST THE DRIVE —

→

Computer

• 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 "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 69.

NSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED ONTO THE SPINDLE

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

CHECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES — See "Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems in the

Microsoft® Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating Systems" on page 98.

UN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS —

See

"Dell Diagnostics" on page 71

Troubleshooting 75

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Optical drive problems

NOTE: High-speed optical drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the

drive, CD, or DVD.

NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

Problems writing to an optical 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.

URN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISK — See "Standby and Sleep

Mode" on page 31 or search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center for information on power management modes.

HANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE — See the help files for your CD or DVD creation software.

If you cannot eject the optical drive tray

Ensure that the computer is turned off.

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.

Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

• Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.

• Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.

Hard drive problems

ALLOW THE COMPUTER TO COOL BEFORE TURNING 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.

UN CHECK DISK —

For Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Right-click

Click

Properties→ Tools→

Click

Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors→ Start

For Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button, ,→

Right-click

Click

Properties→ Tools→

76 Troubleshooting

My Computer

Local Disk C:

Check Now

Computer

Page 77

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click

Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action.

Click

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 in the

Information Guide

NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone connector 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:

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION CHECK THE TELEPHONE CONNECTOR CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL CONNECTOR USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —

Tools→

Options→

Security

to remove the checkmark.

Product

• Verify that the telephone line is connected to the connector on the modem. (The connector has either a green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.)

• Ensure that you insert the telephone line connector into the modem until it clicks.

• 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, bypass the devices and connect the modem directly to the telephone wall connector. 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 Start→ All Programs→ Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is not available on certain computers.)

ERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Click

Start→

Modems

Click the COM port for your modem→ Properties→ Diagnostics→

Control Panel→

Printers and Other Hardware→ Phone and Modem Options

Query Modem

to verify that the

→

modem is communicating with Windows.

If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.

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.

CAN THE COMPUTER FOR SPYWARE —If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently

receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require

Troubleshooting 77

Page 78

an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.

Error Messages

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 129) as you complete these checks.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

Product

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

AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE — The touch pad, track stick, or external mouse may be faulty. For an external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128 ).

AD COMMAND OR FILE NAME — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces in the proper

place, and used the correct pathname.

ACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE — The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed. Contact Dell

(

see "Contacting Dell" on page 128

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer (see "Dell Support Utility" on page 74).

ATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot read the data (see "Dell Support Utility" on page 74).

ECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall

the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 108).

ISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in the Dell

Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

RIVE NOT READY — The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it can continue. Install a hard drive in

the hard drive bay (see "Hard Drive" on page 105).

RROR READING PCMCIA CARD — The computer cannot identify the PC Card. Reinsert the card or try another

PC Card (see "Using Cards" on page 55).

XTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS CHANGED — The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not match the

memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128 ).

HE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION DRIVE — The file that you are trying to copy is too

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

FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these

characters in filenames.

ATE A20 FAILURE — A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace

them (see "Memory" on page 108).

ENERAL FAILURE — The operating system is unable to carry out the command. The message is usually followed by

specific information—for example,

Printer out of paper. Take the appropriate action.

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Page 79

HARD-DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION ERROR — The computer cannot identify the drive type. Shut down the

computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 105), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

ARD-DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0— The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer.

Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 105), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

ARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer. Shut down the

computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 105), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

ARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer, remove the hard

drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 105), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

NSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable CD. Insert a bootable CD.

NVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-PLEASE RUN SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM — The system configuration

information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate options in the system setup program (see "System Setup Program" on page 91).

EYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard

Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

EYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Restart the computer, and

avoid touching the keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

EYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard

Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

EYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE — For external keyboards or keypads, check the cable connection. Restart the

computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the Stuck Key test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

EMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 108).

EMORY ALLOCATION ERROR — The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the operating system,

another program, or a utility. Shut down the computer, wait 30 seconds, and then restart it. Try to run the program again. If the error message still appears, see the software documentation.

EMORY DATA LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be faulty

or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 108) and, if necessary, replace them.

EMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may

be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 108) and, if necessary, replace them.

EMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be

Troubleshooting 79

Page 80

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 108) and, if necessary, replace them.

EMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 108) and, if necessary, replace them.

O BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — The computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard drive is your boot device,

ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.

O BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE — The operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell"

on page 128 ).

O TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the

Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

OT ENOUGH MEMORY 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.

PERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Reinstall the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 105). If the problem

persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128 ).

PTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM — The optional ROM apparently failed. A required. DLL file was not found.

Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128 ).

The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. Remove and then reinstall the program.

Click

Start→

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

Remove

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Control Panel→ Add or Remove Programs

Change/Remove

and follow the prompts on the screen.

SECTOR NOT FOUND — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility to check the file structure on the hard drive. See the Help and Support Center for instructions. If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the hard drive.

EEK ERROR — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard drive.

HUTDOWN FAILURE — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell

Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

IME-OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER — System configuration settings are corrupted. Connect your computer to an

electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to restore the data by entering the system setup program. Then immediately exit the program. If the message reappears, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128).

IME-OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED — The reserve battery that supports the system configuration settings may require

recharging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128).

IME-OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM — The time or date stored in the system

setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date and Time options (see "System Setup Program" on page 91).

IMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in

80 Troubleshooting

Page 81

the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

NEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED MODE — The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or a memory

module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY — Insert a disk into the drive and try again.

ARNING: BATTERY IS CRITICALLY LOW — The battery is running out of charge. Replace the battery, or connect

the computer to an electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate hibernate mode or shut down the computer.

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

NSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

For Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

Control Panel

, click

window, click the

Performance and Maintenance

Hardware

tab.

For Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click

Device Manager

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click

Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action.

Control Panel→ System and Maintenance

If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE —

see

If the device was provided by Dell, contact Dell (

a different manufacturer, contact that

NSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS PROPERLY INSERTED INTO THE CONNECTOR

manufacturer.

"Contacting Dell" on page 128

). If the device was provided by

Product

→

Keyboard Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 129) as you perform the various checks.

NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you

attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

Troubleshooting 81

Product

Page 82

External Keyboard problems

NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

HECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for

damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.

CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —

Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.

Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.

From the Windows desktop, click

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.

TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD, CHECK THE INTEGRATED KEYBOARD —

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the external keyboard.

Turn on the computer.

From the Windows desktop, click

Type some characters on the internal 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

Start→ All Programs→

"Contacting Dell" on page 128

Accessories→

Notepad

RUN THE KEYBOARD DIAGNOSTICS TESTS — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71). If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128

Unexpected characters

DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD — Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed

instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

Lockups and Software Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

82 Troubleshooting

Product

Page 83

The computer does not start up

ENSURE THAT THE AC ADAPTER IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET.

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.

URN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your

mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.

ND THE PROGRAM —

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

Click

Tas k M an age r

Click

Applications

Click the program that is no longer responding.

Click

End Task

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD — The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so it

runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.

Click

Start→

Follow the instructions on the screen.

All Programs→ Accessories→ Program Compatibility Wizard→ Next

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your

mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

Memory Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Contacting Dell" on page 128) as you complete these checks.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

F YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —

Product

• Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem.

• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (

see "Memory" on page 108).

• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory (

• Run the

F YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules (see

see "Memory" on page 108).

Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

"Memory" on page 108

) to ensure that your computer is successfully

communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (

• Run the

Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

see "Memory" on page 108).

Network Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

General

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the

Product

84 Troubleshooting

Page 85

network connector on the back of the computer and the network connector.

HECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR — No light indicates that no network

communication exists. Replace the network cable.

LUG THE A/C POWER ADAPTER INTO THE COMPUTER — If batter power only, the QuickSet utility can disable the

onboard network card to save battery life. For more information on the QuickSet utility, see "Contacting Dell" on page 128.

HECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network

to verify that your network settings are correct and that the tnetwork is functioning.

For more information on the different types of networks, see "Contacting Dell" on page 128.

PC Card or ExpressCard Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

HECK THE CARD — Ensure that the card is properly inserted into the connector.

NSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS — Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the

Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.

F YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED CARD —

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A CARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL — Contact the PC Card manufacturer.

Contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 128

Product

Power Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 129) as you complete these checks.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

HECK 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.

Reinstall the battery.

Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer.

NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on how

often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer.

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

charge is low or depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Product

Troubleshooting 85

Page 86

If the battery status light flashes green and orange, the battery is too hot to charge. Shut down the computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperature.

If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. "Contacting Dell" on page 128

CHECK THE BATTERY TEMPERATURE — If the battery temperature is below 0° C (32° F), the computer will not start up.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing 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.

ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power protection devices, power strips,

and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other

appliances.

DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33.

ESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, reinstall

the memory modules

(

see "Memory" on page 108).

Contact Dell (see

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer

Your computer is designed to use a 65-W or 90-W AC adapter. However, for optimum system performance, you should always use a 90-W adapter.

Using less-powerful AC adapters, including the 65-W AC adapter, will cause you to receive a message.

WARNING

Docking Power Considerations

Due to the extra power consumption when a computer is docked to the Dell D/Dock, normal computer operation is not possible on battery power alone. Ensure that the AC adapter is connected to your computer when the computer is docked to the Dell D/Dock.

Docking While the Computer Is Running

If a computer is connected to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port while the computer is running, presence of the docking device is ignored until the AC adapter is connected to the computer.

AC Power Loss While the Computer Is Docked

If a computer loses AC power while docked to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port, the computer immediately goes into low-performance mode.

86 Troubleshooting

Page 87

Printer Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 129) as you complete these checks.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s manufacturer.

NSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —

Product

• See the printer documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer.

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

ERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click

Start→

If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.

Click

Properties→

LPT1 (Printer Port)

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See the printer documentation for instructions.

Control Panel→

Ports

Printers and Other Hardware→

. For a parallel printer, ensure that the

. For a USB printer, ensure that the

View installed printers or fax printers

Print to the following port(s):

setting is

USB

Scanner Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer.

HECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting

information.

NLOCK THE SCANNER — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

ESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS —

Click Start→ Control Panel→ Printers and Other Hardware→ Scanners and Cameras.

If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER — See the scanner documentation for instructions.

Product

Troubleshooting 87

Page 88

Sound and Speaker Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 129) as you complete these checks.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

Product

No sound from integrated speakers

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME 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.

EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 96.

No sound from external speakers

ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the setup diagram supplied with the

speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.

DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of

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

ISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Sound from the speakers is automatically

disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such

as a lamp.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for

interference.

EINSTALL THE AUDIO DRIVER —

UN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71.

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

to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.

See

"Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 96.

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the

headphone connector.

DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of

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

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —

Click

Start→

Try adjusting the settings.

88 Troubleshooting

Control Panel→

Printers and Other Hardware→

Mouse

Page 89

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse directly to the computer.

TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE, CHECK THE TOUCH PAD —

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the mouse.

Turn on the computer.

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

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

CHECK THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM SETTINGS — Verify that the system setup program lists the correct device for the pointing device option. (The computer automatically recognizes a USB mouse without making any setting adjustments.) For more information on using the system setup program, see "System Setup Program" on page 91.

EST THE MOUSE CONTROLLER — To test the mouse controller (which affects pointer movement) and the

operation of the touch pad or mouse buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71).

EINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 96.

Video and Display Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 129) as you complete these checks.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Information Guide

Product

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.

HECK 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.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing 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.

ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power protection devices, power strips,

and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — Search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center.

→

Click Start or

WITCH THE VIDEO IMAGE — If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press <Fn><F8> to switch

the video image to the display.

Help and Support.

Troubleshooting 89

Page 90

If the display is difficult to read

ADJUST THE BRIGHTNESS — Press <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key.

OVE THE EXTERNAL SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR — 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.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other

appliances.

OTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor

picture quality.

DJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

Click

Start→

Click the area you want to change or click the

Try different settings for

RUN THE VIDEO DIAGNOSTICS TESTS — If no error message appears and you still have a display problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 71). Then

SEE "ERROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see "Error Messages" on page 78.

Control Panel→

Color quality

contact Dell (see

Appearance and Themes

Display

and

Screen resolution

"Contacting Dell" on page 128

icon.

If only part of the display is readable

CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —

Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.

Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls.

If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 128

Contact Dell

90 Troubleshooting

Page 91

System Setup Program

Overview

NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in the system setup

program, thus overriding options that you set through the system setup program. (An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through the system setup program.) For more information on configuring features for your operating system, access the Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center in Microsoft® Windows XP, click Start→ Help and Support. In Microsoft Windows Vista®, click the Windows Vista Start button

You can use the system setup program as follows:

• To set or change user-selectable features—for example, your computer password

• To verify information about the computer's current configuration, such as the amount of system memory

After you set up the computer, run the system setup program to familiarize yourself with your system configuration information and optional settings. You may want to write down the information for future reference.

The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer, such as:

• System configuration

• Boot order

• Boot (start-up) configuration and docking-device configuration settings

• Basic device-configuration settings

• System security and hard-drive password settings

→ Help and Support.

NOTE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do not

change the system setup settings. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly.

Viewing the System Setup Screens

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long and the Microsoft Windows computer and try again.

logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your

System Setup Program 91

Page 92

System Setup Screens

NOTE: For information about a specific item on a system setup screen, highlight the item and see the Help area on

the screen.

In the system setup program, primary categories of settings are listed on the left. To view the types of settings in a category, highlight the category and press <Enter>. When you highlight a setting type, the right side of the screen displays the value for that setting type. You can change settings that appear as white type on the screen. Values that you cannot change (because they are determined by the computer) appear less bright.

System-setup key functions are listed across the bottom of the screen.

Commonly Used Options

Certain options require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect.

Changing the Boot Sequence

The boot sequence, or boot order, tells the computer where to look to find the software needed to start the operating system. You can control the boot sequence and enable/disable devices using the Boot Order page of the system setup program.

NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a One-Time Boot" on page 93.

The Boot Order page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your computer, including but not limited to the following:

•

Diskette Drive

•

Modular bay HDD

•

Internal HDD

•

Optical Drive

During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device for the operating system start-up files. When the computer finds the files, it stops searching and starts the operating system.

To control the boot devices, select (highlight) a device by pressing the down-arrow or up-arrow key, and then enable or disable the device or change its order in the list.

• To enable or disable a device, highlight the item and press the space bar. Enabled items appear as white and display a small triangle to the left; disabled items appear blue or dimmed without a triangle.

• To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and then press <u> or <d>(not case-sensitive) to move the highlighted device up or down.

Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit the system setup program.

92 System Setup Program

Page 93

Performing a One-Time Boot

You can set a one-time-only boot sequence without entering the system setup program. (You can also use this procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.)

Shut down the computer through the

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

Start

menu.

came with your docking device for instructions.

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.

If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

When the boot device list appears, highlight the device from which you want to boot and press <Enter>.

The computer boots to the selected device.

The next time you reboot the computer, the previous boot order is restored.

Changing COM Ports

Serial Port allows you to map the serial port COM address or disable the serial port and its address, which frees computer resources for another device to use.

System Setup Program 93

Page 94

94 System Setup Program

Page 95

Reinstalling Software

Drivers

What Is a Driver?

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

A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes.

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

NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities media may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your

computer. Ensure that you are installing software appropriate for your operating system.

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

• Upgrade your operating system.

• Reinstall your operating system.

• Connect or install a new device.

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.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Click

Start→

Under

In the

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Click the Windows Vista start button,

Click

Properties→ Device Manager

Control Panel

Pick a Category

System Properties

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

and right-click

, and click

tab, and click

Computer

System

Device Manager

Reinstalling Software 95

Page 96

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click

Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue.

Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the device icon.

If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 96).

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and Utilities media provide approved

drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Using Windows Device Driver Rollback

If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.

Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Click the

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista start button,

Click

Properties→ Device Manager

My Computer→ Properties→ Hardware→

Drivers

tab→

Roll Back Driver

and right-click

Device Manager

Properties

Computer

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click

Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager.

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Click the

Drivers

tab→ Roll Back Driver

Properties

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

Using the Drivers and Utilities media

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 98) does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the Drivers and Utilities media.

Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

Insert the

Drivers and Utilities

media.

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 double-click the

autorcd.exe

file. The first

96 Reinstalling Software

Page 97

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.

From the

Language

drop-down menu in the toolbar, select your preferred language for the driver or

utility (if available).

At the welcome screen, click

To detect other drivers and utilities, under

System Model, Operating System

and wait for the CD to complete the hardware scan.

, and

Search Criteria

To pi c

drop-down menus.

, select the appropriate categories from the

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

Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or utility that you want to install.

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 option. For installation instructions,

either see the appropriate instructions in the following subsections, or click

Extract

, follow the

extracting instructions, and then read the readme file.

If instructed to navigate to the driver files, click the CD directory on the driver information window to display the files associated with that driver.

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous section:

Windows XP:

Click

Start→ My Computer→ Properties→ Hardware→ Device Manager

Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example,

Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.

Click the

Click

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Driver

tab→

Update Driver

Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)→ Next

Browse

and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files.

Finish

and restart your computer.

Audio

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista start button,

Click

Properties→ Device Manager

and right-click

Computer

Video

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click

Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager.

Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example,

Reinstalling Software 97

Audio

Video

Page 98

Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.

Click the

Click

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click the name of the driver→ OK→ Next

Click

Driver

tab→

Update Driver→ Browse my computer for driver software

Browse

and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files.

Finish

and restart your computer.

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems in the Microsoft® Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating Systems

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.

To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:

Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Ty p e

hardware troubleshooter

In the

In the to follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista start button,

Ty p e

hardware troubleshooter

In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.

Help and Support

Fix a Problem

Hardware Troubleshooter

section, click

in the search field and press <Enter> to start the search.

Hardware Troubleshooter

list, select the option that best describes the problem and click

and click

in the search field and press <Enter> to start the search.

Help and Support.

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

• Microsoft Windows XP System Restore and Microsoft Windows Vista™ System Restore return your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your operating system and preserving data files.

• If you received an system. However, using the

only

if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

98 Reinstalling Software

Operating System

CD with your computer, you can use it to restore your operating

CD also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the CD

Page 99

Using Microsoft® Windows® System Restore

The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files)if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. Any changes that System Restore makes to your computer are completely reversible.

NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover

them.

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you

set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.

Starting System Restore

Windows XP:

NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any

open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

Click

Start→

Click either

Click

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click

In the search box, type

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click

Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action.

Click

In the event that System Restore did not resolve the issue, you may undo the last system restore.

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→

Restore my computer to an earlier time

Create a restore point

and follow the remaining on-screen prompts.

Help and Support

System Restore

and press <Enter>.

and follow the remaining prompts on the screen.

System Restore

Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not

alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Click

Undo my last restoration

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→

and click

System Restore

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click

In the search box, type

Click

Undo my last restoration

System Restore

and click

and press <Enter>.

Help and Support

Reinstalling Software 99

Page 100

Enabling System Restore

NOTE: Windows Vista does not disable System Restore; regardless of low disk space. Therefore, the steps below

apply only to Windows XP.

If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled.

To see if System Restore is enabled:

Click

Start→

Click the

Removing Dell PC Restore

NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from your

computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your computer operating system.

Control Pan el→ Performance and Maintenance→ System

System Restore

tab and ensure that

Turn off System Restore

is unchecked.

Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your computer, even to gain additional hard-drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard drive, you cannot ever recall it, and you will never be able to use PC Restore to return your computer operating system to its original state.

Log on to the computer as a local administrator.

In Microsoft Windows Explorer, go to

Double-click the filename

DSRIRRemv2.exe

c:\dell\utilities\DSR

NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator, a message appears stating that you that you must log on

as administrator. Click Quit, and then log on as a local administrator.

NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer hard drive, a message appears stating

that the partition was not found. Click Quit; there is no partition to delete.

Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.

Click

Yes

when a confirmation message appears.

The PC Restore partition is deleted and the newly available disk space is added to the free space allocation on the hard drive.

Right-click

Local Disk (C)

space is available as indicated by the increased value for

Click

Finish

to close the

100 Reinstalling Software

in Windows Explorer, click

PC Restore Removal

window and restart the computer.

Properties

Free Space

, and verify that the additional disk

Dell D430 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Dell™ Latitude™ D430

Contents

Finding Information

About Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

Charge Gauge

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Power Management Modes

Standby and Sleep Mode

Hibernate Mode

Configuring Power Management Settings

Accessing Power Options Properties

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

System Functions

Battery

Optical Drive Tray

Display Functions

Power Management

Speaker Functions

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Touch Pad

Fingerprint Reader (optional)

Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick

Changing the Track Stick Cap

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

Switching the Video Image From Your Computer Display to a Projector

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper on the Screen: Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Using an External Monitor Simultaneously as an Extension of Your Computer Display

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Using an External Monitor as Your Primary Display: Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Setting Up and Using Networks

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System

Wireless Local Area Network

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem

Connecting to a WLAN

Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

Managing Your Network Settings Through the Dell QuickSet Location Profiler

Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

Using Cards

Card Types

Card Blanks

PC Cards

PC Card Blanks

Extended PC Cards

Installing a PC Card or an ExpressCard