Dell™ OptiPlex™ FX160
Setup and Quick Reference Guide
This guide provides an overview of features, specifications, quick setup,
software, and troubleshooting information for your computer. For more
information about your operating system, devices, and technologies, see
the Dell Technology Guide at support.dell.com.
Model DC01T
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of
your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data
and tells you how to avoid the problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury,
or death.
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to
Microsoft
Macrovision Product Notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by
method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights
owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this
copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision
Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only
unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering
or disassembly is prohibited.
____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2008 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction of these materials in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc.
is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, OptiPlex, and DellConnect are trademarks of Dell
Inc.; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and is used by Dell under
license; Intel and Atom are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries;
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and the Windows Vista start button are either trademarks or
registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
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.
®
Windows® operating systems are not applicable.
Model DC01T
August 2008 P/N C742D Rev. A00
Contents
1 About Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Back View
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2 Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Before Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Quick Setup
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4 Troubleshooting Tips
Using the Hardware Troubleshooter . . . . . . . . . . 17
Tips
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Power Problems
Memory Problems
Lockups and Software Problems
Dell Technical Update Service
Dell Support Utility
Dell Diagnostics
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
. . . . . . . . . . 19
. . . . . . . . . . . 20
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Contents 3
5 Reinstalling Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Identifying Drivers
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
. . . . . . . . . . 24
Restoring Your Operating System
Using Microsoft
Windows System Restore
. . . . . . . . . . . . 26
(Windows Vista hard drive operating
systems only)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
6 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
7 Getting Help
Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Technical Support and Customer Service
DellConnect™
Online Services
AutoTech Service
Automated Order-Status Service
Problems With Your Order
Product Information
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
. . . . . 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
. . . . . . . . . . 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
. . . . . 34
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
4 Contents
Before You Call
Contacting Dell
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
About Your Computer
5
1
3
7
6
8
9
10
2
4
Front View
1 power button 2 side cover
3 USB 2.0 connectors (2) 4 stand
5 headphone connector 6 microphone connector
About Your Computer 5
7 diagnostic lights (see your
7
1
6
4
5
3
2
8
9
Service Manual for information
about light codes)
9 hard drive indicator 10 network activity indicator
8 Wi-Fi indicator
Back View
1 wireless antenna (optional) 2 serial connector
3 DVI connector 4 VGA connector
5 USB 2.0 connectors (4) 6 PS/2 keyboard connector
7 power connector 8 PS/2 mouse connector
9 network connector (RJ-45)
6 About Your Computer
Setting Up Your Computer
Before Setting Up Your Computer
When positioning your computer, ensure that you allow easy access to a
power source, adequate ventilation, and a level surface on which to place your
computer.
NOTICE: Keep the computer on the stand and in the vertical position. Setting up
the computer horizontally (on its side) restricts airflow and can impact
performance.
Restricting airflow around the computer may cause it to overheat. To prevent
overheating ensure that you leave at least 10.2 cm (4 in) at the back of the
computer and a minimum of 5.1 cm (2 in) on all other sides. You should
never put your computer in an enclosed space, such as a cabinet or drawer
when it is powered on.
Quick Setup
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
NOTE: Some devices may not be included if you did not order them.
Setting Up Your Computer 7
1
Connect the monitor using either the white DVI cable or the blue VGA
cable.
2
Connect a USB device, such as a keyboard or mouse.
8 Setting Up Your Computer
3
Connect the network cable.
4
Connect the power cable.
Setting Up Your Computer 9
5
Press the power buttons on the monitor and the computer.
10 Setting Up Your Computer
Specifications
NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the
configuration of your computer, click Start→ Help and Support and select the
option to view information about your computer.
Processor
®
Processor type Intel
Level 2 (L2) cache at least 512 KB pipelined-burst per core, eight-way set
System Information
Chipset SiS M671 and SiS 968
DMA channels seven
Interrupt levels 24
BIOS chip (ROM) 8 Mb
NIC integrated network interface capable of
Memory
Type 667-MHz or 800-MHz DDR2 SDRAM
Memory connectors two DIMMs
Memory capacities 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB modules (512 MB modules
Atom™ 200 Series Single-Core processor or
Intel Atom 300 Series Dual-Core processor
associative, writeback SRAM
10/100/1000 Mbps communication
NOTE: When 800 MHz memory is installed, the
computer still operates at 667 MHz.
supported on Linux)
Specifications 11
Memory (continued)
Minimum memory 1 GB (512 MB for Linux)
Maximum memory 4 GB
Video
Ty p e :
SiS Mirage integrated
video
Audio
Ty p e :
ADI 1984A Integrated
HD Audio
Drives
Internally accessible one 2.5-in drive bay
Available devices one 2.5-in SATA hard drive
default 128 MB shared video memory (can be changed
in BIOS system setup)
NOTE: A hard drive is optional and requires a hard drive
kit.
one NVRAM Flash module (for embedded operating
system)
Connectors
External connectors:
Video
Network adapter
USB
Audio
Serial
PS/2
12 Specifications
15-pin VGA connector and 24-pin DVI connector
RJ-45 connector
two front-panel, and four back-panel USB 2.0compliant connectors
two jacks (headphone and microphone)
one 9-pin connector
two 6-pin mini-DINs
Connectors (continued)
System board connectors:
Serial ATA (hard drive)
Serial ATA (NVRAM
module)
Fan
Mini-PCI Express X1
Front panel LED
Front panel USB
Front panel audio
Memory
Power 12 V
BIOS ROM
Serial ATA hard drive
power
Controls and Lights
Front of computer:
Power button
Power light (within the
power button)
Network link light
Wireless light
Diagnostic lights (1–4)
one 7-pin connector
one 22-pin connector
one 5-pin connector
one 52-pin connector
one 14-pin connector
two 10-pin connectors
one 12-pin connector
two 240-pin connectors
one 4-pin connector
one 8-pin socket
one 4-pin connector
push button
blue light — Blinking blue in sleep state; solid blue
for power on state.
amber light — A solid amber light when the
computer does not start indicates that the system
board cannot start initialization. This could be a
system board or a power supply problem (see "Power
Problems" on page 17).
blue light - A solid blue light indicates network
connectivity.
blue light - A solid blue light indicates the wireless
network is powered on.
See your Service Manual for information about
diagnostic light codes.
Specifications 13
Controls and Lights (continued)
Drive activity light
Rear of computer:
Link integrity light (on
network adapter connector)
Network activity light (on
network adapter connector)
Power
DC power supply:
Wa t ta g e
Voltage (see the safety
information that shipped
with your computer for
important voltage setting
information)
Coin-cell battery 3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell
blue light — A blinking blue light indicates the
computer is reading data from or writing data to the
SATA hard drive.
green light — 10-Mb operation
orange light — 100-MB operation
yellow light — 1-Gb operation
off (no light) — The computer is not detecting a
physical connection to the network.
yellow blinking light
50 W
100-240 V, ~0.8 A, 50-60 Hz
Physical
Height 22.9 cm (9.02 in) without stand
26.9 cm (10.6 in) with stand
Width 5.4 cm (2.13 in) with side cover
4.7 cm (1.85 in) without side cover
Depth 25.2 cm (9.92 in)
Weight 1.81–2.09 kg(4.0–4.6 lb)
NOTE: Weight varies, depending on configuration and
if the stand is included.
14 Specifications
Environmental
Temperature:
Operating
Storage
Relative humidity 20% to 80% (noncondensing)
Maximum vibration:
Operating
Storage
Maximum shock:
Operating
Storage
Altitude:
Operating
Storage
Airborne contaminant level
10° to 35° C (50° to 95° F)
–40° to 65° C (–40° to 149° F)
5 to 350 Hz at 0.0002 G2/Hz
5 to 500 Hz at 0.001 to 0.01 G2/Hz
40 G +/- 5% with pulse duration of 2 msec +/- 10%
(equivalent to 20 in/sec [51 cm/sec])
105 G +/- 5% with pulse duration of 2 msec +/- 10%
(equivalent to 50 in/sec [127 cm/sec])
–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)
–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)
G2 or lower as defined by ISA-S71.04-1985
Specifications 15
16 Specifications
Troubleshooting Tips
CAUTION: Always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
opening the cover.
NOTE: For detailed troubleshooting information, including responding to system
messages, see your Service Manual at support.dell.com.
Using the Hardware Troubleshooter
1
Click
Start
(Microsoft® Windows® XP embedded) or the Windows Vista®
Start button
2
Ty p e
<Enter> to start the search.
3
In the search results, select the option that best describes your problem
and follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.
Tips
• If a device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.
• Check the diagnostics lights on the front of the computer or listen for
beep codes that may indicate a problem. See your
information.
• If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the
installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.
• If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message.
This message may help support personnel to diagnose and fix the
problem(s).
• If an error message occurs in a program, see the program documentation.
,
and click
hardware troubleshooter
Help and Support.
in the search field and press
Service Manual
for more
Power Problems
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that
shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
Troubleshooting Tips 17
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF — The computer is either turned off or is not
receiving power.
• Reseat the power cable in the power connector on the back of the
computer and the electrical outlet.
• Bypass power strips, power extension cables, and other power protection
devices to verify that the computer turns on properly.
• Ensure that any power strips being used are plugged into an electrical
outlet and are turned on.
• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another
device, such as a lamp.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLUE AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING —
• Ensure that the display is connected and powered on.
• If the display is connected and powered on, see your
support.dell.com
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING BLUE — The computer is in standby mode.
.
Service Manual
on
Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to
resume normal operation.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER — There is a power problem, or a
device may be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.
ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE — Some possible causes of interference are:
• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables
• Too many devices connected to the same power strip
• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet
Memory Problems
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that
shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
F YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —
I
• 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.
18 Troubleshooting Tips
• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 21).
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —
• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory.
• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines.
• Ensure that the memory you are using is supported by your computer. For
more information about the type of memory supported by your computer,
see "Specifications" on page 11.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 21).
Lockups and Software Problems
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default
view and may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view.
The computer does not start up
ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO
THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET
A program stops responding
END THE PROGRAM —
1
Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to access the Task Manager,
and click the
2
Click to select the program that is no longer responding, and click
.
Ta s k
Applications
tab.
End
A program crashes repeatedly
NOTE: Most software includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a
floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
C
HECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then
reinstall the program.
Troubleshooting Tips 19
A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating system
RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —
1
Click
Start → Control Panel→ Programs→ Use an older program with
this version of Windows
2
In the welcome screen, click
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
A solid blue screen appears
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a
.
Next
.
key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button
for at least 6 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your
computer.
Other software problems
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE
MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION —
• Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed
on your computer.
• Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements
needed to run the software. See the software documentation for
information.
• Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
• Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.
• If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
Dell Technical Update Service
The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of
software and hardware updates for your computer. To enroll for the Dell
Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.
Dell Support Utility
NOTE: The Dell Support Utility is not supported on Linux or Windows XP embedded
operating systems.
20 Troubleshooting Tips
The Dell Support Utility provides self-support information, software updates,
and health scans of your computing environment. 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:
1
Click
Start
2
Ensure that the
NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to
support.dell.com and download the software.
→
All Programs→ Dell Support→
Show icon on the taskbar
Dell Support Settings
option is checked.
.
For more information about the Dell Support Utility, click the question mark
(?) at the top of the Dell Support screen.
Dell Diagnostics
NOTE: Dell Diagnostics is supported only on operating systems installed on the
hard drive and Windows XP Embedded running on an NVRAM Flash module.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics (installed on the computer)
1
Ensure that the computer is connected to a working electrical outlet.
2
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
3
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select
Utility Partition
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to
wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop, and then shut down your
computer and try again.
and press <Enter>.
Boot to
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.
4
Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility
partition on your hard drive, and follow the instructions on the screen.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Dell Drivers and Utilities Media
NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities media is optional and may not ship with your
computer. This procedure also requires an external optical drive.
1
Connect an external optical drive to the computer.
2
Insert the
Drivers and Utilities
media.
Troubleshooting Tips 21
3
Shut down and restart the computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
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 starts according to the devices specified in the
system setup program.
4
When the boot device list appears, highlight
CD/DVD/CD-RW
<Enter>.
5
Select
Boot from CD-ROM
from the menu that appears and press
<Enter>.
6
Ty p e 1 to start the CD menu and press <Enter> to proceed.
7
Select
Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics
from the numbered list. If
multiple versions are listed, select the version that is appropriate for your
computer.
8
When the Dell Diagnostics
Main Menu
appears, select the test that you
want to run, and follow the instructions on the screen.
and press
22 Troubleshooting Tips
Reinstalling Software
Drivers
Identifying Drivers
Windows Vista
1
Locate the list of devices for your computer:
a
b
2
Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow
circle with a [
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 24).
Windows® XP Embedded
1
Locate the list of devices for your computer:
a
b
c
®
Click the Windows Vista Start button , and right-click
Click
Properties→ 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.
!]
) on the device icon.
Right-click
Click
NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to continue.
Click the
My Computer
Properties
Hardware
on the desktop.
.
tab, and then click
.
Device Manager
.
Computer
.
Reinstalling Software 23
2
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 24).
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities
NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com provides approved drivers
for your computer. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer
might not work correctly.
Returning to a Previous Device Driver Version
Windows Vista
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button , and right-click
2
Click
Properties→ 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 enter the Device Manager.
3
Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click
Properties
4
Click the
.
Drivers
tab→ Roll Back Driver
.
.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, use System Restore
(see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 26) to return your computer
to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.
Computer
.
Windows XP Embedded
1
Locate the list of devices for your computer:
a
Right-click
b
Click
NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to continue.
Click the
c
My Computer
Properties
Hardware
.
tab, and then click
24 Reinstalling Software
on the desktop.
Device Manager
.
2
Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click
Properties
3
Click the
.
Drivers
tab→ Roll Back Driver
.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, use System Restore
(see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 26) to return your computer
to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.
Manually Reinstalling Drivers
Windows Vista
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button , and right-click
2
Click
Properties→ Device Manager
NOTE: The User Account Control window appears. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to continue.
3
Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for
example,
4
Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
5
Click the
software
6
Click
Audio
or
Video
).
Driver
tab→
Update Driver→ Browse my computer for driver
.
Browse
and browse to the location to which you previously copied
.
Computer
.
the driver files.
7
Click the name of the driver→ OK→ Next
8
Click
Finish
and restart your computer.
.
Windows XP Embedded
1
Locate the list of devices for your computer:
a
Right-click
b
Click
NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to continue.
Click the
c
My Computer
Properties
Hardware
on the desktop.
.
tab, and then click
Device Manager
Reinstalling Software 25
.
2
Right-click the device for which you need a driver, and click
3
Click the
4
Follow the instructions that appear on the screen to either install the driver
from a local source, or to search the Web for a driver.
Drivers
tab→ Update Driver
.
Update Driver
Restoring Your Operating System
Depending on your system configuration, you can restore your operating
system in the following ways:
• Microsoft® Windows System Restore (available only on computers that
have hard drives and are running Windows Vista) returns 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 the
use it to restore your operating system. However, using the
System
media deletes all data on the hard drive. This option — available
only on computers with hard drives with Windows Vista
external optical drive to run the media.
Using Microsoft Windows System Restore (Windows Vista hard drive operating systems only)
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default
view and may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view.
Operating System
media with your computer, you can
Operating
—
also requires an
.
Starting System Restore
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button .
2
In the Start 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.
3
Click
Next
and follow the remaining prompts on the screen.
26 Reinstalling Software
System Restore
and press <Enter>.
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.
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button
2
In the
3
Start Search
Click
Undo my last restoration
box, type
System Restore
and click
.
Next
and press <Enter>.
.
Reinstalling Software 27
28 Reinstalling Software
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.
Document/Media/Label Contents
Service Tag/Express Service Code
The Service Tag/Express Service Code is
located on your computer.
Safety, Regulatory, Warranty, and
Support Documentation
This type of information may have
shipped with your computer. For
additional regulatory information, see the
Regulatory Compliance Homepage on
www.dell.com at the following location:
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
Dell Technology Guide
The Dell Technology Guide is available at
support.dell.com.
Microsoft® Windows® License Label
Your Microsoft Windows License is
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
• Warranty information
• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
• About your operating system
• Using and maintaining devices
• Understanding technologies such as
RAID, the Internet, Bluetooth
technology, e-mail, networking, and
more.
• Provides your operating system product
key.
or contact support.
®
wireless
Finding Information 29
30 Finding Information
Getting Help
Obtaining Assistance
CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer cover, first disconnect the
computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets. Follow the safety
instructions that shipped with your computer.
If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the
following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem:
1
See "Tips" on page 17 for information and procedures that pertain to the
problem your computer is experiencing.
2
See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 21 for procedures on how to run Dell
Diagnostics.
3
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 36.
4
Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support
(
support.dell.com
procedures. See "Online Services" on page 32 for a more extensive list of
Dell Support online.
5
If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see "Contacting
Dell" on page 37.
NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone at or near the affected computer so that
the support staff can assist you with any necessary procedures.
) for help with installation and troubleshooting
NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.
When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express
Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you
do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder,
double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.
For instructions on using the Dell Support, see "Technical Support and
Customer Service" on page 32.
Getting Help 31
NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations
outside the continental U.S. Call your local Dell representative for information on
availability.
Technical Support and Customer Service
Dell's support service is available to answer your questions about Dell
hardware. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast,
accurate answers.
To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You Call" on page 35, and then
see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com.
DellConnect™
DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and
support associate to access your computer through a broadband connection,
diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision. For more
information, go to support.dell.com and click DellConnect.
Online Services
You can learn about Dell products and services at the following websites:
www.dell.com
www.dell.com/ap
www.dell.com/jp
www.euro.dell.com
www.dell.com/la
www.dell.ca
You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail
addresses:
• Dell Support websites:
support.dell.com
support.jp.dell.com
support.euro.dell.com
32 Getting Help
(Asian/Pacific countries only)
(Japan only)
(Europe only)
(Latin American and Caribbean countries)
(Canada only)
(Japan only)
(Europe only)
• Dell Support e-mail addresses:
mobile_support@us.dell.com
support@us.dell.com
la-techsupport@dell.com
apsupport@dell.com
• Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses:
apmarketing@dell.com
sales_canada@dell.com
• Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP):
ftp.dell.com –
your password
log in as user
(Latin America and Caribbean countries only)
(Asian/Pacific countries only)
(Asian/Pacific countries only)
(Canada only)
anonymous
, and use your e-mail address as
AutoTech Service
Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to
the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their laptop and
desktop computers.
When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the
subjects that correspond to your questions. For the telephone number to call
for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 37.
Automated Order-Status Service
To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go
to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order status service. A
recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on
your order. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting
Dell" on page 37.
Problems With Your Order
If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or
incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or
packing slip available when you call. For the telephone number to call for your
region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 37.
Getting Help 33
Product Information
If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if
you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For
the telephone number to call for your region or to speak to a sales specialist,
see "Contacting Dell" on page 37.
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:
1
Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it
clearly and prominently on the outside of the box.
For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on
page 37. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for
the return.
2
Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist"
on page 36), indicating the tests that you have run and any error messages
reported by the Dell Diagnostics (see "Contacting Dell" on page 37).
3
Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned
(power cables, software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if the return is for
credit.
4
Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing
materials.
You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for
insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during
shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted.
Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at
Dell’s receiving dock and returned to you.
34 Getting Help
Before You Call
NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s
automated support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also
be asked for your Service Tag (located on the back or bottom of your computer).
Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist"
on page 36). If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for
assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be
asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information
during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the
computer itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is available.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, follow the safety instructions in
the documentation that shipped with your computer.
Getting Help 35
Diagnostics Checklist
Name:
Date:
Address:
Phone number:
Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer):
Express Service Code:
Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):
Operating system and version:
Devices:
Expansion cards:
Are you connected to a network? Yes No
Network, version, and network adapter:
Programs and versions:
See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the
system’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file.
Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell.
Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:
Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:
36 Getting Help
Contacting Dell
For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW-DELL (800-999-3355).
NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact
information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.
Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options.
Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be
available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or
customer service issues:
Visit
1
2
3
support.dell.com
Country/Region
Click
Contact Us
service or support link based on your need.
Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.
, and verify your country or region in the
drop down menu at the bottom of the page.
on the left side of the page, and select the appropriate
Choose A
Getting Help 37
38 Getting Help
Index
C
connecting
monitor, 8
network cable, 9
power cables, 9
contacting Dell, 31, 37
D
Dell
contacting, 31, 37
software updates, 20
Support Utility, 20
technical support and customer
service, 32
Technical Update Service, 20
Dell Diagnostics, 21
starting from the Drivers and
Utilities media, 21
starting from your hard drive, 21
Dell Technology Guide, 29
DellConnect, 32
drivers, 23
identifying, 23
reinstalling, 24
returning to a previous version, 24
Drivers and Utilities media
Dell Diagnostics, 21
E
End User License Agreement
(EULA), 29
ergonomics information, 29
Express Service Code, 29
F
finding information, 29
L
license label, 29
diagnostics
Dell, 21
documentation, 29
Dell Technology Guide, 29
Service Manual, 29
M
memory
troubleshooting, 18
Index 39
O
operating system
System Restore, 26
operating system product key, 29
P
phone numbers, 37
power
power light conditions, 17
troubleshooting, 17
problems
restore to previous state, 26
software (continued)
troubleshooting, 19-20
updates, 20
specifications
all, 11
audio, 12
connectors, 12
controls and lights, 13
drives, 12
environmental, 15
memory, 11
physical, 14
power, 14
processor, 11
system information, 11
video, 12
R
regulatory information, 29
reinstalling
drivers and utilities, 24
software, 23
S
safety information, 29
Service Manual, 29
Service Tag, 29
setup
computer, 7
software
problems, 20
reinstalling, 23
40 Index
support, 31
contacting Dell, 37
DellConnect, 32
online services, 32
regional, 32
technical support and customer
service, 32
support information, 29
System Restore, 26
T
Terms and Conditions, 29
troubleshooting, 17
blue screen, 20
computer not responding, 19
troubleshooting (continued)
Dell Diagnostics, 21
memory, 18
power, 17
power light conditions, 17
program crashes, 19
programs and Windows
compatibility, 20
restore to previous state, 26
software, 19-20
tips, 17
W
warranty information, 29
Windows License label, 29
Windows Vista
Device Driver Rollback, 24
Program Compatibility wizard, 20
returning to a previous device
driver version, 24
System Restore, 26
Windows XP
System Restore, 26
U
updates
software and hardware, 20
V
view
back, 6
front, 5
wizards
Program Compatibility wizard, 20
Index 41
42 Index
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