Dell DCMA User Manual

Download

Dell™ Inspiron™ 531 Owner’s Manual

Model DCMA

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

Windows® operating systems are not applicable.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary" on page 189.

____________________

Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, YOURS IS HERE, Inspiron, Dell TravelLite, and

Strike Zone are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and Windows Vista start button logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries; Intel and Intel SpeedStep are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; AMD, AMD Athlon, AMD Sempron, and Cool ’n’ Quiet are trademarks of Advanced MicroDevices, Inc; Nvidia is a registered trademark of Nvidia 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.

Model DCMA

April 2008

Contents

1 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

2 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Back View of the Computer

Back Panel Connectors

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

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

Connecting a USB Printer

Playing CDs and DVDs

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

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

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

. . . . . . . 20

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . 30

. . . 15

Connecting Two Monitors

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

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

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

Contents 3

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

Connecting a TV

Changing the Display Settings

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

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

. . . . . . 32

Power Management

Power Management Options in Microsoft

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Options Properties

Power Schemes Tab

Advanced Tab

Hibernate Tab

Power Management Options in Windows Vista

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Plan Properties

Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet Technology

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

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . 40

About RAID Configurations (For Windows Vista only)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

RAID Level 1 Configuration

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

Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID

Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility

Using Nvidia MediaShield

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

. . . . . . . 42

. . . . . 43

4 Contents

Transferring Information to a New Computer

. . . . . . 44

Setting Up a Home and Office Network . . . . . . . . . 47

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Network Setup Wizard

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

. . . . . . . . . 47

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

. . . . . . . . 49

3 Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Battery Problems

Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems

Hard drive problems

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

Keyboard Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

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

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

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

The computer does not start up

The computer stops responding

A program stops responding

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

A program crashes repeatedly

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft

A solid blue screen appears

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

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Dell™ Product Information Guide

• How to set up my computer

Setup Diagram

NOTE: See the setup diagram that came with

your system.

NOTE: The appearance of your setup diagram

may vary.

Finding Information 11

What Are You Looking For? Find it Here

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License

These labels are located on your computer.

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

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

NOTE: As an increased security measure, the

newly designed Microsoft Windows license label incorporates a missing portion or "hole" to discourage removal of the label.

support.dell.com

12 Finding Information

What Are You Looking For? Find it Here

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

• 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 technical support

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

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates

• Desktop System Software (DSS)— If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the DSS utility. DSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell™ 3.5-inch USB floppy drives, optical drives, and USB devices. DSS 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 configuration.

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region to view the

appropriate support site.

NOTE: Corporate, government, and education

customers can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website at premier.support.dell.com.

To download

Go to

support.dell.com

Downloads

and

Enter your Service Tag or Product Type and Product Model and click

Scroll to

Utilities

and click

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may

vary depending on your selection.

Desktop

System and Configuration



Download Now

System Software:

and click

Dell Desktop System Software

Drivers

Finding Information 13

What Are You Looking For? Find it Here

• How to use your Windows® operating system

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

Windows Help and Support Center

To access Windows Help and Support:

• In Windows XP, click

Help and Support

• In Windows Vista Windows Vista start button™ and click

Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and press <Enter>.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Start

, click the

Help and Support

and click

14 Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front View of the Computer

1 2

4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11

1 Service Tag

(located on top of the chassis towards the rear)

2 CD or DVD drive Use the CD/DVD drive for playing a CD/DVD.

3 CD or DVD drive panel This panel covers the CD/DVD drive.

4 CD or DVD eject button Press to eject a disk from the CD or DVD drive.

Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call technical support.

(Shown in open position)

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15

5 optional CD or DVD

drive bay

6 optional CD or DVD

eject button

7 FlexBay drive Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional Media

8 USB 2.0 connectors (4) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect

9 IEEE 1394 connector

(optional)

10 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones

11 microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal

12 front panel door grip Slide up the front panel door grip to cover the FlexBay

13 power button,

power light

Can contain an optional CD/DVD drive.

Press to eject a disk from the optional CD or DVD drive.

Card Reader. For information on using the Media Card Reader, see the Sonic website at www.sonic.com for additional information.

occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see "System Setup Options" on page 173 for more information on booting to a USB device). It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.

Attach high-speed serial multimedia devices, such as digital video cameras.

and most kinds of speakers.

computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program. On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.

drive, four Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors, one headphone connector, and one microphone connector.

Press the power button to turn on the computer. The light in the center of this button indicates power state. See "Controls and Lights" on page 170 for more information.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power

button to turn off the computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown.

14 drive activity light The drive activity light is on when the computer reads

data from or writes data to the hard drive. The light might also be on when a device such as a CD player is operating.

16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Back View of the Computer

1 power connector Insert the power cable.

2 power supply LED Indicates power availability for power supply.

3 back panel

connectors

4 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express cards.

5 padlock rings Padlock rings are for attaching a commercially available

6 security cable slot Security cable slot lets you attach a commercially available

Plug USB, audio, and other devices into the appropriate connector. See "Back Panel Connectors" on page 18 for more information.

theft-deterrent device. The padlock rings allows you to secure the computer cover to the chassis with a padlock to prevent unauthorized access to the inside of the computer. To use the padlock rings, insert a commercially available padlock through the rings, and then lock the padlock.

antitheft device to the computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 17

Back Panel Connectors

1 network activity

light

2 network adapter

connector

3 link integrity light

Flashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting or receiving network data. A high volume of network traffic may make this light appear to be in a steady "on" state.

To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a network cable to either a network port or your network or broadband device. Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back panel of your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached.

NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network

connector.

On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card. It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your network. If you must use Category 3 wiring, force the network speed to 10 Mbps to ensure reliable operation.

• Green — A good connection exists between the network and the computer.

• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.

18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

4 center/subwoofer

connector

5 line-in connector Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback

6 front L/R line-out

connector

7 microphone Use the pink connector to attach a personal computer

8 side L/R surround

connector

9 rear L/R surround

connector

10 USB 2.0

connectors (4)

11 VGA video

connector

Use the orange connector to attach a speaker to a Low Frequency Effects (LFE) audio channel. LFE audio channel is found in digital surround sound audio schemes that carries only low frequency information of 80 Hz and below. The LFE channel drives a subwoofer to provide extremely low bass extension. Systems not using subwoofers can shunt the LFE information to the main speakers in the surround sound set-up.

device such as a cassette player, CD player, or VCR. On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

Use the green line-out connector (available on computers with integrated sound) to attach headphones and most speakers with integrated amplifiers. On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program. On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.

Use the gray connector to provide enhanced surround audio for computers with 7.1 speakers. On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.

Use the black surround connector to attach multichannelcapable speakers.

Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.

It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras.

Connect the monitor’s VGA cable to the VGA connector on the computer.

On computers with a video card, use the connector on the card.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 19

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

Installing your computer in an enclosure can restrict the airflow and impact your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat. Follow the guidelines below when installing your computer in an enclosure:

NOTICE: The operating temperature specifications indicated in this manual

reflects the maximum ambient operating temperature. The room ambient temperature needs to be a consideration when installing your computer in an enclosure. For example, if the ambient room temperature is at 25°C (77°F), depending on your computer’s specifications, you only have 5° to 10°C (9° to 18°F) temperature margin before you reach your computer’s maximum operating temperature. For details about your computer’s specifications, see "Specifications" on page 167.

• Leave a 10.2 cm (4 inches) minimum clearance on all vented sides of the computer to permit the airflow required for proper ventilation.

• If your enclosure has doors, they need to be of a type that allows at least 30 percent airflow through the enclosure (front and back).

• If your computer is installed in a corner on a desk or under a desk, leave at least 5.1 cm (2 inches) clearance from the back of the computer to the wall to permit the airflow required for proper ventilation.

20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

• Do not install your computer in an enclosure that does not allow airflow.

Restricting the airflow impacts your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 21

Setting Up a Printer

NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to

the computer.

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

• Obtain and install updated drivers.

• Connect the printer to the computer.

• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.

For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the printer manufacturer.

Printer Cable

Your printer connects to your computer with either a USB cable or a parallel cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer and computer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the computer’s shipping box.

Connecting a USB Printer

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

Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.

Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.

22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

1 USB connector on

computer

Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer.

Depending on your computer’s operating system, a printer wizard may be

2 USB connector on

printer

3 USB printer

cable

available to help you install the printer driver:

If your computer is running the Microsoft system and the

Add New Hardware Wizard window appears

Windows® XP operating

, click

Windows XP

Click

Start Control Panel Printers and Faxes Add a printer

the Add Printer Wizard

Windows Vista

Click

Start

and click

Network Add a printer

to start the Add Printer

Wizard.

Install the printer driver if necessary. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 84 and the documentation that came with your printer.

Cancel

to start

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 23

Playing CDs and DVDs

NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep

the tray closed when you are not using the drive.

NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs.

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.

Gently push in the tray.

To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer.

NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

Play

Move backward within the current track

Pau se

Move forward within the current track

Stop

Go to the previous track

Eject

Go to the next track

24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:

Stop

Restart the current chapter

Play

Fast forward

Pau se

Fast reverse

Advance a single frame while in pause mode

Go to the next title or chapter

Continuously play the current title or chapter

Go to the previous title or chapter

Eject

For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.

Windows XP:

Click the

Entertainment

In the

Volume

For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Vo lu me Control window.

Windows Vista:

Click

and then click

In the column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.

Start

button, point to

, and then click

Master Volume

control window, click and drag the bar in the

All Programs Accessories

Volume Control



Master

column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume

Start

, point to

Adjust System Volume

Volume Mixer

Control Panel Hardware and Sound Sound

window, click and drag the bar in the

Speakers

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 25

Adjusting the Picture

If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties:

Windows XP:

Click the

Under

In the

resolution

Under

(16 bit)

Click OK.

Windows Vista:

Click

Under

In the change the setting to

Click the drop-down menu under

Click OK.

Start

button, and then click

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display Properties

to change the setting to

Color quality

Start

and click

Appearance and Personalization

Personalization

Display Settings

, click

Appearance and Themes

, click

Change the screen resolution

window, click and drag the bar in

800 by 600 pixels.

, click the drop-down menu, and then click

Control Panel

, click

Adjust screen resolution

window, click and drag the bar in

800 by 600 pixels

Colors

Control Panel

, and then click

Screen

Medium

Resolution

Medium (16 bit)

26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Copying CDs and DVDs

NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when creating CDs or DVDs.

This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD (combo) drive.

NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.

The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic DigitalMedia for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Sonic DigitalMedia and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a

CD-RW/DVD combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at www.sonic.com.

The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied

using Sonic DigitalMedia.

Windows® XP

Click the

Projects

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

Start

button, point to



Copy Disc Copy

If you have one CD or DVD drive

click the

Disc Copy

button. The computer reads your source CD or DVD

All Programs

Sonic DigitalMedia

, ensure that the settings are correct and

and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive and click

If you have two CD or DVD drives

• inserted your source CD or DVD and click the

, select the drive into which you have

Disc Copy

The computer copies the data from the source CD or DVD to the blank CD or DVD.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 27

button.

Windows Vista®:

Click

Start

, point to

Copy Disc Copy

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

If you have one CD or DVD drive

click the

Disc Copy

All Programs

Sonic DigitalMedia Projects

, ensure that the settings are correct and

button. The computer reads your source CD or DVD



and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive and click

•

If you have two CD or DVD drives

inserted your source CD or DVD and click the

, select the drive into which you have

Disc Copy

button. The computer copies the data from the source CD or DVD to the blank CD or DVD.

Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created automatically ejects.

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed CD-RW) while DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.

Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.

Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+/-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.

CD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Yes Ye s

28 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Yes Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +R W Ye s Yes Ye s

DV D -R W Ye s Ye s Yes

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

Helpful Tips

• Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Sonic DigitalMedia and open a DigitalMedia project.

• Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos.

• You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic DigitalMedia.

• Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.

• Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may not support all available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by your DVD player, see the documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer.

• Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1–2 MB of the blank space to finalize the recording.

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

See the Sonic website at

www.sonic.com

for additional information.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 29

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Use the Media Card Reader to transfer data directly to your computer.

The Media Card Reader supports the following memory types:

•xD-Picture Card

• SmartMedia (SMC)

• CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II)

• MicroDrive Card

• SecureDigital Card (SD)

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

• Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)

For information on installing a Media Card Reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on page 134.

30 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

1 xD-Picture Card and SmartMedia

(SMC)

3 Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro) 4 SecureDigital Card (SD)/

2 CompactFlash Type I and II

(CF I/II) and MicroDrive Card

MultiMediaCard (MMC)

To use the Media Card Reader:

Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion.

Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector. If you encounter resistance, do not force the media or card. Check the card orientation and try again.

Connecting Two Monitors

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

If you purchased a graphics card that supports dual monitors, follow these instructions to connect and enable your monitors. The instructions tell you how to connect either two monitors (each with a VGA connector), one monitor with a VGA connector and one monitor with a DVI connector, or a TV.

NOTICE: If you are connecting two monitors that have VGA connectors, you must

have the optional DVI adapter to connect the cable. If you are connecting two flat-panel monitors, at least one of them must have a VGA connector. If you are connecting a TV, you may connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the TV.

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97.

NOTE: If your computer has integrated video, do not connect either monitor

to the integrated video connector. If the integrated video connector is covered by a cap, do not remove the cap to connect the monitor or the monitor will not function.

Connect one of the monitors to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.

Connect the other monitor to the optional DVI adapter and connect the DVI adapter to the DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 31

*May not be present on your computer

1 optional DVI adapter 2 DVI (white) connector

3 TV-OUT connector 4 VGA (blue) connector

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

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97.

Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.

Connect the DVI connector on the other monitor to the DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.

Connecting a TV

NOTE: You must purchase an S-video cable, available at most consumer electronics

stores, to connect a TV to your computer. It is not included with your computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97.

Connect one end of the S-video cable to the optional TV-OUT connector on the back of the computer.

32 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV.

Connect the VGA or DVI monitor.

Changing the Display Settings

After you connect the monitor(s) or TV, turn on the computer.

The Microsoft

Enable extended desktop mode in the display settings. In extended

Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.

desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

Power Management

Power Management Options in Microsoft® Windows® XP

The Microsoft Windows XP power management features can reduce the amount of electricity your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can reduce power to just the monitor or the hard drive, or you can use standby mode or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire computer.

When the computer exits from a power conservation mode, it returns to the operating state it was in prior to entering the mode.

NOTE: Windows XP Professional includes security and networking features not

available in Windows XP Home Edition. When a Windows XP Professional computer is connected to a network, different options related to security and networking appear in certain windows.

NOTE: The procedures to activate the standby and hibernate modes may vary

according to your operating system.

Standby Mode

Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a designated period of time, known as a time-out. When the computer exits from standby mode, it returns to the operating state it was in prior to entering standby mode.

NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 33

NOTICE: The graphics card in your computer is installed in the PCI Express x16

slot. When there is a card in this slot and you add a peripheral that does not support s3 suspend, your computer will not enter standby mode.

To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity:

Click the

Define your standby settings on the

Ta b

Start

button, then click

Control Panel

Power Schemes Tab

and

Advanced

To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click the Start button, click Turn Off Computer, and then click Stand by.

To exit from standby mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

Hibernate Mode

Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive, and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits from hibernate mode, the desktop is restored to the state it was in prior to entering hibernate mode.

To activate hibernate mode:

Click

Start

Maintenance

Under

Define your hibernate settings on the and

Hibernate

To exit from hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit from hibernate mode. Because the keyboard and mouse do not function in hibernate mode, pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the computer out of hibernation.

Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you. If the computer’s hard drive becomes corrupted, Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.

Control Panel

Pick a category

or pick a Control Panel icon

tab.

Performance and

, click

Power Options

Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab

34 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Power Options Properties

Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the Power Options Properties window. To access the Power Options Properties window:

Click

Start Control Panel Pick a category Performance and

Maintenance

Under

Define your power settings on the

Hibernate tab

or pick a Control Panel icon

, click

Power Options

Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab,

and

Power Schemes Tab

Each standard power setting is called a scheme. If you want to select one of the standard Windows schemes installed on your computer, choose a scheme from the Power schemes drop-down menu. The settings for each scheme appear in the fields below the scheme name. Each scheme has different settings for starting standby mode, hibernate mode, turning off the monitor, and turning off the hard drive.

NOTICE: If you set the hard drive to time-out before the monitor does, your

computer may appear to be locked up. To recover, press any key on the keyboard or click the mouse. To avoid this problem, always set the monitor to timeout before the hard drive.

The Power schemes drop-down menu displays the following schemes:

•

Always On

conservation.

•

Home/Office Desk

with little power conservation.

•

Portable/Laptop

for traveling.

•

Presentation

(using no power conservation).

•

Minimal Power Management

minimal power conservation.

•

Max Battery

computer from batteries for extended periods of time.

(default) — If you want to use your computer with no power

— If you want your home or office computer to run

— If your computer is a portable computer that you use

— If you want your computer to run without interruption

— If you want your computer to run with

— If your computer is a portable computer and you run your

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 35

If you want to change the default settings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the Turn off monitor, Turn off hard disks, System stand by, or System hibernates field, and then select a time-out from the displayed list. Changing the time-out for a scheme field permanently changes the default settings for that scheme, unless you click Save As and enter a new name for the changed scheme.

Advanced Tab

The Advanced tab allows you to:

• Place the power options icon in the Windows taskbar for quick access.

• Set the computer to prompt you for your Windows password before the computer exits from standby mode or hibernate mode.

• Program the power button to activate standby mode, activate hibernate mode, or turn off the computer.

To program these functions, click an option from the corresponding drop-down menu and click OK.

Hibernate Tab

The Hibernate tab allows you to enable hibernate mode. If you want to use the hibernate settings as defined on the Power Schemes tab, click the Enable hibernate support check box on the Hibernate tab.

For more information on power management options:

Click

Start Help and Support Performance and maintenance

In the

your computer

Performance and maintenance

window, click

Conserving power on

Power Management Options in Windows Vista

The Windows Vista power management features are designed to reduce the amount of electricity your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can reduce power to just the monitor or the hard drive, and Windows operating system sets the default "off" state to standby mode or you can set hibernate mode to reduce power even further.

When the computer exits from a power conservation mode (Standby or Hibernate), the Windows desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode.

36 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Windows Vista has three main default power management modes:

• Balanced

• Power Saver

• High Performance

Dell has added a fourth, Dell-Recommended mode that sets power management to the most typical settings for the majority of our customers. This is the active Power Plan.

Standby Mode

Standby mode is the default "off" state for Windows Vista. Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out. When the computer exits from standby mode, it returns to the operating state it was in before it entered standby mode.

To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity:

Click

Start

and click

Click

System and Maintenance

Under

System and Maintenance

The next dialog box will show three power plans - the top option is Dell Recommended - this is the currently active plan.

There is also a show additional plans arrow underneath the three power plans. You can have many power plans, but only three are displayed and the top one is the active plan.

To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click

Start , then click the off button icon. Windows Vista sets Standby as the

default off state.

To exit from standby mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

Control Pane

, click

Power Options

NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data.

Windows Vista has a new feature called Hybrid Sleep mode - this saves the data into a file and also puts the system into standby. If you lose power, the system retains your data on the hard drive and resumes to the same state you left it. Go to Help and Support and search for Hybrid Sleep for further information. Hybrid Sleep provides fast wake if the system is in standby, and also keeps your data safe by storing it to the hard drive.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 37

Hibernate Mode

Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits from hibernate mode, the desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered hibernate mode. Windows Vista may mask Hibernate from the user if Hybrid Sleep is enabled. See Help and Support for further information - search for Hibernate.

To activate hibernate mode immediately (if available):

Click

Start

and click the arrow .

Select

Hibernate

To exit from hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit from hibernate mode. Pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the computer out of hibernation, because the keyboard and the mouse do not function when the computer is in hibernate mode.

Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you. If the computer's hard drive becomes corrupted, Windows Vista recreates the hibernate file automatically.

from the list.

Power Plan Properties

Define your standby mode settings, display mode settings, hibernate mode settings (if available), and other power settings in the Power Plan Properties window. To access the Power Plan Properties window:

Click

Start

Click

Under the main

In the settings.

and click

System and Maintenance

Select a Power Plan

Select A Power Plan

Control Panel

window.

window, you can change or modify power

, click

Power Options

. This takes you to

38 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Power Management Modes

Windows Vista has three main default power management modes:

• Balanced

• Power Saver

• High Performance

Dell has added a fourth Dell-Recommended mode that sets power management to the most typical settings for the majority of our customers.This is the active Power Plan for all Dell shipping configurations.

To change the default settings for a plan:

Click

Start

and click

Under

Pick a category

Under

System and Maintenance

Control Panel

, click

System and Maintenance

, click

Power Options

A number of options are available on the left-hand side of the Power Options dialog box.

Click Change Plan Settings just below any of the power plans to change settings such as:

• Require a password on wakeup.

• Choose what power buttons do.

• Create a power plan (you can choose the settings you want and create a custom power plan here).

• Choose when to turn off the display

• Change when the computer sleeps.

Advanced Tab

The Advanced tab allows you to set many different settings beyond the basic ones above. If you do not know or are not sure what to set, then leave settings at the default. To access the advanced settings:

Choose the

Click

Power Plan

Change Plan Settings

you want to change.

from just below the plan name.

Change Advanced Power Settings

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 39

CAUTION: There are many different settings in the Power Options, Advanced

Settings dialog box. Use care when making setting changes.

Click

Start

and then click Help and Support to explore the capabilities of

the advanced settings.

Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet Technology

Cool 'n' Quiet™ technology controls your computer's processor performance automatically, dynamically adjusting the operating frequency and voltage, according to the task at hand. When an application does not require full performance, significant amounts of power can be saved. Performance is designed to still be responsive, with maximum processor performance being delivered when required, and automatic power savings when possible.

Windows

Cool ’n’ Quiet technology is now enabled.

Windows Vista

Windows Vista automatically sets AMD™ Cool 'n' Quiet technology in the Dell Recommended, Balanced, and Power Saver power plans. It is disabled in the High Performance power plan.

XP:

Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 172).

Select

Cool and Quiet

the setting to

Click on the

Power Options Properties

the

From the and select

Start Settings Control Panel Power Options

Power Schemes

Minimal Power Management

from the

Power Management

window.

tab, click the Power Schemes drop-down menu

and then click OK.

group, and change

to access

About RAID Configurations (For Windows Vista only)

This section provides an overview of the redundant array of independent disks (RAID) configuration you may have selected when you purchased your computer. Your computer supports RAID level 1. A RAID level 1 is recommended for users that desire a high level of data integrity.

40 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

The drives in a RAID configuration should be the same size in order to ensure that the larger drive does not contain unallocated (and therefore unusable) space.

RAID Level 1 Configuration

RAID level 1 uses a data-redundancy storage technique known as mirroring to enhance data integrity. When data is written to the primary drive, the data is also duplicated, or mirrored, on the second drive in the configuration. A RAID level 1 configuration sacrifices high data-access rates for its data redundancy advantages.

serial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 1

segment 1

segment 2

segment 3

segment 4

segment 5

segment 6

hard drive 1

segment 1 duplicated

segment 2 duplicated

segment 3 duplicated

segment 4 duplicated

segment 5 duplicated

segment 6 duplicated

hard drive 2

If a drive failure occurs, subsequent read and write operations are directed to the surviving drive. A replacement drive can then be rebuilt using the data from the surviving drive.

NOTE: In a RAID level 1 configuration, the size of the configuration is equal to the

size of the smallest drive in the configuration.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 41

Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID

Your computer can be configured for RAID, even if you did not select a RAID configuration when the computer was purchased. For an explanation of RAID levels and their requirements, see "About RAID Configurations (For Windows Vista only)" on page 40. For information on how to install a hard drive, see "Hard Drives" on page 122.

To configure RAID hard drive volumes use the Nvidia MediaShield ROM utility before you install the operating system onto the hard drive.

Ensure that you set your computer to RAID-enabled mode before you begin.

Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode

Enter the system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 172).

Press the left- and right-arrow keys to

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the then press <Enter>.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the

Configuration

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

, then press <Enter>.

press <Enter>.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select press <Enter>.

Advanced

Enabled

tab.

Integrated Peripheral

Serial-ATA

RAID Enabled

, and then

NOTE: For more information about RAID options, see "System Setup Options"

on page 173.

Enable the corresponding “SATA in Primary or second RAID” where your hard drives are connected

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select

F10

<Enter>. Press

key and then press <Enter> to exit system setup and

Enabled

, and then press

resume the boot process.

42 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility

NOTICE: The following procedure will result in the loss of all data on your hard

drive(s). Back up any data you want to keep before continuing.

Hard drives of any size may be used to create a RAID configuration. Ideally, however, the drives should be of equal size to avoid unallocated or unused space. For an explanation of RAID levels and their requirements, see "About RAID Configurations (For Windows Vista only)" on page 40. For information on how to install a hard drive, see "Installing a Hard Drive" on page 124.

Enable RAID for each applicable hard drive on your computer (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 42).

Restart the computer.

Press <F10> when prompted to enter the RAID BIOS.

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

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

The

Define a New Array

Press <Tab> to navigate to the

To create a RAID 1 configuration, use the arrow keys to select

Press <Tab> to navigate to the

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select a hard drive to include in the RAID array and then use the right-arrow key to move the selected drive from the

Free Disks

want to include in the RAID array.

window appears.

field to the

RAID Mode

Free Disks

Array Disks

field.

Mirroring

field.

field. Repeat for each disk you

NOTE: Your computer supports a maximum of two drives per RAID 1 array.

After assigning the hard drives to an array, press <F9>.

The

Clear disk data

NOTICE: You will lose all data on the selected drives in the next step.

Press <Y> to clear all data from the selected drives.

Array List

The

To review the details of the array that you set up, use the arrow keys to highlight the array in the

The

Array Detail

NOTE: To delete an array, use the arrow keys to select the array and press <D>.

prompt appears.

window appears.

Array Detail

window appears.

window and press <Enter>.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 43

Press <Enter> to return to the previous screen.

Press <Ctrl><X> to exit the RAID BIOS.

Using Nvidia MediaShield

Nvidia MediaShield allows you to view and manage RAID configurations.

Rebuilding a RAID Configuration

If one of the hard drives in a RAID array fails, you can rebuild the array by restoring the data to a replacement drive.

NOTE: Rebuilding an array can only be performed on RAID 1 configurations.

Launch Nvidia MediaShield.

Click to select your RAID configuration ( utility window.

Select

Rebuild Array

NVIDIA Rebuild Array Wizard

The

Click

Select the hard drive you want to rebuild by clicking the checkbox beside it.

Click

Finish

The MediaShield RAID management utility window appears and displays the status of the rebuild process.

in the

System Tasks

Mirroring

pane.

appears.

) in the management

NOTE: You can use your computer while the computer is rebuilding the array.

NOTE: You can use any available (RAID-enabled) free disk to rebuild an array.

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.

Windows

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data from a source computer to a new computer.

44 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

XP:

You can transfer data, such as:.

• E-mail messages

• Toolbar settings

• Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:

Click

Start

click

The

Click

On the click

On the

, point to

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

from the Windows XP CD

When the

Now go to your old computer

All Programs

screen, click

, and then click

Accessories

welcome screen appears.

screen, click

screen appears, go to the source (old) computer that contains the data to be transferred. at this time.

To copy data from the source computer:

On the source computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

additional tasks

Under

What do you want to do?

On the

On the click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

, click

Transfer files and settings

welcome screen, click

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method of your

preference.

On the transfer, then click

After the information has been copied, the

Phase

Click

What do you want to transfer?

screen appears.

Finish

screen, select the items you want to

Completing the Collection

System Tools

New Computer

I will use the wizard

Do not click Next

Operating System

screen, click

Old Computer

, and then

Perform

, and then

CD.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 45

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the chose for transferring your files and settings, and then click

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

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

new computer.

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

Finished

screen

appears.

Click

Finished

and restart the computer.

Windows Vista®:

The Windows Vista operating system provides the Windows Easy Transfer wizard to move data from a source computer to a new computer. You can transfer data, such as:

• User account

• Files and folders

• Program settings

• Internet settings and favorites

• E-mail settings, contacts, and messages

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.

There are two ways to access the Windows Easy Transfer wizard:

When Windows Vista setup is completed, you will see the Windows Vista Welcome Center. In the Welcome Center click

Settings

If the Welcome Center dialog box has been closed, you can access Easy Transfer by clicking the

To ol s

to start Windows easy Transfer.

Start

 All Programs

 Windows Easy Transfer.

Transfer Files and

Accessories

System

Double-click the Windows Easy Transfer icon to begin the process.

46 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

NOTICE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the

computer. Do not plug the network cable into the modem connector on the computer. Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack.

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

Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.

Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device.

1 network adapter connector 2 network device

3 network cable 4 network adapter connector on computer

Network Setup Wizard

The Microsoft® Windows® operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office.

Windows XP:

Click

then click

On the welcome screen, click

, point to

Start

All Programs

Network Setup Wizard

 Accessories

 Communications

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 47

, and

Click

Checklist for creating a network

NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to

the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP SP1.

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.

Windows Vista®:

Click

Start

This brings up the Network dialog screen. Click

This will bring up the Network and Sharing Center dialog screen - click

Set up a connection or network

of this dialog screen.

From a list of tasks to choose from, such as,

Set Up a wireless router or access point

appropriate for your network and follow the on-screen prompts.

For more information, access Help and Support - use the search term Network.

and then click

NOTE: This screen also provides links to Add a Printer and to Add a Wireless

Device (if available).

Network

Network and Sharing Center

from the list of tasks on the left-hand side

Connect to the Internet

and more. Choose the task most

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options:

• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line or cellular telephone service. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same line simultaneously.

• Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line.

• Satellite modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through a satellite television system.

48 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

• Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable (or satellite) modem connections.

• Wireless LAN connections that provide Internet access using Bluetooth

wireless technology.

If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem connection, contact your ISP or cellular telephone service for setup instructions.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut:

Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

NOTE: If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem,

and Internet Problems" on page 54." If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

NOTE: Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, the Connect to

the Internet wizard can help you get one.

Windows XP:

Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

Click the

The

Click

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

• If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click

Start

button, then click

New Connection Wizard

Connect to the Internet

Internet Explorer

appears.

list of Internet service providers (ISPs)

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 49

Choose from a

• If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click

• If you have a CD, click

NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact

your ISP.

Click

Use the CD I got from an ISP

Set up my connection manually

If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

Click the appropriate option under

Internet?

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

, and then click

How do you want to connect to the

Windows Vista®:

Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

Click

Start

Under

The

Click either

and click

Network and Internet,

Connect to the Internet

Broadband (PPPoE)

Control Panel

click

Connect to the Internet

window appears.

Dial-up

, depending on how you want

to connect:

• Choose

Broadband

if you will use a DSL, satellite modem, cable TV

modem, or Bluetooth wireless technology connection.

• Chose

Dial-up

if you will use a dial-up modem or ISDN.

NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me

choose or contact your ISP.

Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

If you cannot connect to the Internet, but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

50 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Solving Problems

CAUTION: Some of the parts described in this chapter may be replaceable by a

certified service technician only and are not custom replaceable.

Troubleshooting Tips

Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer:

• If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.

• If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.

• If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem.

• If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.

Battery Problems

CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed.

Replace the battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

REPLACE THE BATTERY — If you have to repeatedly reset time and date

information after turning on the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 142). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see "Getting Help" on page 183).

Solving Problems 51

Drive Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE —

Wind ows XP:

Click

Start

and click

Windows Vista®:

Click Start

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.

ENSURE THAT THE DRIVE IS ENABLED IN THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM —

See "System Setup" on page 172.

TEST THE DRIVE —

• Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the

• Insert bootable media and restart the computer.

and click Computer.

original one is defective.

My Computer

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 179.

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and

Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 87.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive" on page 80.

52 Solving Problems

CD and DVD drive problems

NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise,

which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.

NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all

DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —

• Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.

• Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.

• Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.

CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 70.

Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive

CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the CD/DVD-RW.

TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW

DISC —

Windows XP:

Click the

Define your standby settings on the

Windows Vista:

Click

Under

Click the drop down menu for

Start

button, then click

Start and click

Control Panel

System and Maintenance

Preferred plans

, click

Change plan settings

Turn off the display

Control Panel

Power Schemes Tab

and click

Power Options

and

Advanced Tab

for the selected plan.

and select

Never

Solving Problems 53

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK —

Windows XP:

Click

Start

and click

Right-click

Click

Local Disk C: Properties Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors

My Computer.

Tools

Check Now

and click

Start

Windows Vista:

Click

Start and click

Right-click

Click

Click the

Under

Click

Local Disk C: Properties

Tools

tab.

Error-checking Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors Start

Computer

, click

Check Now

NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this procedure.

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not

operate while it is connected to a digital telephone network.

CHECK THE WINDOWS MAIL EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS — If you cannot open your e-mail attachments:

In Windows Mail, click

Click

Do not allow attachments to be saved or opened that could potentially be a

to remove the checkmark.

virus

Click

Apply

and then OK.

Tools

, click

Options

, and then click

Security

54 Solving Problems

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION —

HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK —

ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK —

SE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —

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

• Ensure that you feel a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.

• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.

• If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.

RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS —

Windows® XP:

Click Start All Programs Modem Helper.

Windows Vista

Click

Start , point to All Programs, and then click Modem Helper.

NOTE: Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems.

(Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)

Solving Problems 55

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Windows XP:

Click

Start

Control Panel

Options

Click the COM port for your modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.

Windows Vista:

Click

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click 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 Windows Mail 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.

 Modems

Start and click Hardware and Sound Phone and Modem Options

Properties

, click the

Printers and Other Hardware

Properties

Control Panel

Diagnostics

and click the

tab, and then click

Modems

Phone and Modem

Diagnostics

tab.

Query Modem

to verify

Error Messages

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

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

56 Solving Problems

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

Windows

XP:

Click

Start

Control Panel

Add or Remove Programs

Programs and Features

Select the program you want to remove. Click

Uninstall

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Windows Vista®:

Click

Start , click

Under

Programs and Features

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

Uninstall, Change

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Control Panel

click

, or

Repair

, and then click

Programs

Uninstall a program

drive letter:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY — The drive cannot read the disk. Insert a disk into the drive and try again.

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.

NON-SYSTEM DISK ERROR — Remove the floppy disk from the drive and restart

your computer.

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. CLOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY

AGAIN — Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. In some

cases, you might have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell (see "Getting Help" on page 183).

Solving Problems 57

Keyboard Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE —

• Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.

• Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 98), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer.

• Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins.

• Remove keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.

TEST THE KEYBOARD — Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, and try using the keyboard.

ENSURE THAT THE USB PORTS ARE ENABLED IN THE SYSTEM SETUP

PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 172.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 87.

Lockups and Software Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

The computer does not start up

ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND

TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET

58 Solving Problems

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system

shutdown.

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.

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

Click

Applications

Click the program that is no longer responding.

Click

End Task

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or

on a floppy disk or CD.

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

Solving Problems 59

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —

Windows XP:

The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-XP operating system environments.

Click

Start

All Programs

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Windows Vista®:

Use the Program Compatibility Wizard to configure an operating environment similar to earlier versions of Windows. This may improve the performance of programs designed for earlier versions of Windows.

Click

Start , point to

Under

Programs and features click

windows

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Accessories

Control Panel Programs Programs and features.

Program Compatibility Wizard

Use an older program with this version of

A solid blue screen appears

60 Solving Problems

Media Card Reader Problems

NO DRIVE LETTER IS ASSIGNED —

When Microsoft the device is automatically assigned a drive letter as the next logical drive after all other physical drives in the system. If the next logical drive after the physical drives is mapped to a network drive, Windows Operating System does not automatically assign a drive letter to the Media Card Reader.

Windows XP:

Right-click

Select the

Right-click the corresponding drive letter in the right pane that needs to be changed.

Select

Drive Letter and Paths

From the drop-down list, select the new drive letter assignment for the Media Card Reader.

Click OK to confirm your selection.

Windows Vista®:

To manually assign a drive for the Media Card Reader:

Click

Start , right-click

Click

Continue

Expand the Storage object and select Disk Management.

Right-click the corresponding drive letter in the right pane that needs to be changed.

Select

Change Drive Letter and Paths

Click

Change

From the drop-down list, select the new drive letter assignment for the Media Card Reader.

Click OK to confirm your selection.

NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this procedure. NOTE: The Media Card Reader only appears as a mapped drive when it is connected.

Each of the four Media Card Reader slots are mapped to a drive even if no media is installed. If you attempt to access the Media Card Reader when no media is inserted, you are prompted to insert media.

Windows® Operating System detects the Media Card Reader,

My Computer

Disk Management

and select

option.

Manage

Computer

and select

Manage

if prompted.

62 Solving Problems

FLEXBAY DEVICE IS DISABLED —

There is a FlexBay disable option in the BIOS setup that appears only when the FlexBay device is installed. If the FlexBay device is physically installed, but it is not running, check to see if it is enabled in the BIOS setup.

Memory Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —

• 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 Installation Guidelines" on page 108).

• Reseat the memory modules (see "Installing Memory" on page 109) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive" on page 80).

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules (see "Installing Memory" on page 109) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Memory Installation Guidelines" on page 108).

• Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 167.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive" on page 80).

Solving Problems 63

Mouse Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

CLEAN THE MOUSE — See "Mouse" on page 179 for instructions on cleaning the

mouse.

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —

Remove mouse extension cables, if used, and connect the mouse directly to the computer.

Reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

RESTART THE COMPUTER —

Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the

Ty p e u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight then press <Enter>.

After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the on the setup diagram for your computer.

Start the computer.

ENSURE THAT THE USB PORTS ARE ENABLED IN THE SYSTEM SETUP

PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 172.

Start

menu.

Shut down

Turn Off

, and

TEST THE MOUSE — Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, and try using the mouse.

64 Solving Problems

CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS —

Windows

XP:

Click

Start

, click

Control Panel

Click

Mouse

Adjust the settings as needed.

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Windows Vista®:

Click

Start , click

Click

Mouse

Try adjusting the settings.

Control Panel

, and then click

Hardware and Sound

REINSTALL THE MOUSE DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 84.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 87.

Network Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable is

firmly inserted into both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network port or device.

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE BACK OF THE COMPUTER — If the link integrity light is off, that indicates no network communication exists. Replace the network cable. For a description of network lights, see "Controls and Lights" on page 170.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN

Solving Problems 65

CHECK 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 network is functioning.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 87.

Power Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF — The computer is either turned off or is not

receiving power.

• Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.

• If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on. Also bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on properly.

• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY BLUE AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT

RESPONDING — See "Power Lights" on page 75.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING BLUE — The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation.

66 Solving Problems

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER — Power problem or internal device malfunction.

• Ensure that the 12-volt power connector (12V) is securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 102).

• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 102).

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER — The computer is receiving electrical power, a device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

• Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see "System Board Components" on page 102).

• Remove and then reinstall any cards (see "Cards" on page 111).

• Remove and then reinstall the graphics card, if applicable (see "Removing a PCI/PCI Express Card" on page 116).

ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE — Some possible causes of interference are:

• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables

• Too many devices on a power strip

• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Printer Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s

manufacturer.

CHECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION — See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.

ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON

Solving Problems 67

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• See the printer documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer (see "Setting Up a Printer" on page 22).

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

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Windows

XP:

Click

Start

, click

Control Panel

Click

View installed printers or fax printers

If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.

Click

Properties

the following port(s):

, then click the

is set to USB.

, and then click

Ports tab

. For a USB printer, ensure that

Printers and Other Hardware

Print to

Windows Vista®:

Click

port(s):

Start , click Printers

. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.

Properties

setting is

Control Panel

and click the

USB

, and then click

Ports

tab. Ensure that the

Hardware and Sound

Print to the following

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See the printer documentation for instructions.

68 Solving Problems

Scanner Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s

manufacturer.

CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.

UNLOCK THE SCANNER — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

RESTART 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 —

Windows XP:

Click

Start

, click

Control Panel

Click

Scanners and Cameras

If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

Windows Vista:

Click

Start , click

Click

Scanners and Cameras

If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Hardware and Sound

REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER — See the scanner documentation for instructions.

Solving Problems 69

Sound and Speaker Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

No sound from speakers

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.

CHECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS — Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If you purchased a sound card, ensure that the speakers are connected to the card.

ENSURE THAT THE CORRECT AUDIO SOLUTION IS ENABLED IN THE BIOS SETUP

PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 172.

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.

ADJUST 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.

DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.

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

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.

70 Solving Problems

REINSTALL THE SOUND DRIVER — See "Manually Reinstalling Drivers" on page 86.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 87.

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see "Front View of the Computer" on page 15).

ADJUST 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.

ENSURE THAT THE CORRECT AUDIO SOLUTION IS ENABLED IN THE BIOS SETUP

PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 172.

Video and Monitor Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.

Solving Problems 71

If the screen is blank

CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION —

• Ensure that the graphics cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

If an optional video card is installed, check that the monitor cable is connected to the card, rather than the video connector on the system board.

• If you are using a graphics extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is defective.

• Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine whether the power cable is defective.

• Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing pins.)

CHECK THE MONITOR POWER LIGHT — If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that the monitor is turned on. If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power. If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

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

If the screen is difficult to read

CHECK THE MONITOR SETTINGS — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.

MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE MONITOR — If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the monitor.

72 Solving Problems

MOVE THE MONITOR AWAY FROM EXTERNAL POWER SOURCES — Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky." Turn off nearby devices to check for interference.

ROTATE THE MONITOR TO ELIMINATE SUNLIGHT GLARE AND POSSIBLE

INTERFERENCE

ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

Windows

XP:

Click

Start

Click

Display

Adjust

Screen resolution

, click

Control Panel

, then click the

, and then click

Settings

and

Color quality

Appearance and Themes

tab.

settings, as needed.

Windows Vista®:

Click

Start , click

Personalization

Under

Personalization

Try different settings for

Control Panel

, click

, and then click

Adjust screen resolution

Screen resolution

and

Color quality.

Appearance and

Solving Problems 73

74 Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tools

Power Lights

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

The power button light (bi-color LED) located on the front of the computer illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:

• 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.

– If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power

strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on. Also, bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on properly.

– Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another

device, such as a lamp.

• If the power light is steady 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 "Beep Codes" on page 76.

• If the power light is blinking blue, the computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation.If the power light is blue and the computer is not responding:

– Ensure the display is connected and powered on.

– If the display is connected and powered on, see "Beep Codes" on

page 76.

Troubleshooting Tools 75

• If the power light is blinking amber, the computer is receiving electrical power, a device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

– Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on

page 107).

– Remove and then reinstall any cards (see "Cards" on page 111).

– Remove and then reinstall the graphics card, if applicable (see "Cards"

on page 111).

• If the power light is steady amber, there may be a power problem or an internal device malfunction.

– Ensure that all power cables are securely connected to the system

board (see "System Board Components" on page 102).

– Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely

connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 102).

Beep Codes

Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies a problem. One possible beep code consists of repetitive three short beeps. This beep code tells you that the computer encountered a possible motherboard failure.

If your computer beeps during start-up:

Write down the beep code.

Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 80).

76 Troubleshooting Tools

Code

Description Suggested Remedy (repetitive short beeps)

3 Possible motherboard

failure.

1 BIOS checksum

failure. Possible

motherboard failure.

5 Real time clock failure.

Possible battery failure

or motherboard failure.

4 RAM Read/Write

failure.

2 No memory modules

are detected.

6 Video BIOS Test

Failure.

Contact Dell.

Replace the battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 142).

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements exist (see "Memory Installation Guidelines" on page 108).

Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your computer (see "Memory Installation Guidelines" on page 108).

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

If you have two or more memory modules installed, remove the modules, reinstall one module (see "Installing Memory" on page 109), and then restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, reinstall an additional module. Continue until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.

If available, install good memory of the same type into your computer (see "Installing Memory" on page 109).

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

Contact Dell.

Troubleshooting Tools 77

System Messages

NOTE: If the message you received is not listed in the table, see the documentation

for either the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.

ALERT! PREVIOUS ATTEMPTS AT BOOTING THIS SYSTEM HAVE FAILED AT

CHECKPOINT [NNNN]. FOR HELP IN RESOLVING THIS PROBLEM, PLEASE NOTE THIS CHECKPOINT AND CONTACT DELL TECHNICAL SUPPORT — The computer

failed to complete the boot routine three consecutive times for the same error (see "Getting Help" on page 183 for assistance).

CMOS CHECKSUM ERROR — Possible motherboard failure or RTC battery low. Replace battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 142 or see "Getting Help" on page 183 for assistance).

CPU FAN FAILURE — CPU fan failure. Replace CPU fan (see "Removing the Processor Fan" on page 154).

DISKETTE DRIVE 0 SEEK FAILURE — A cable may be loose, or the computer configuration information may not match the hardware configuration. Check cable connections (see "Getting Help" on page 183 for assistance).

DISKETTE READ FAILURE — The floppy disk may be defective or a cable may be loose. Replace floppy disk/check for loose cable connection.

HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE — Possible hard disk drive failure during HDD POST. check cables /swap hard disks (see "Getting Help" on page 183 for assistance).

HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — Possible HDD failure during HDD boot test (see "Getting Help" on page 183 for assistance).

KEYBOARD FAILURE — Keyboard failure or keyboard cable loose (see "Keyboard Problems" on page 58).

78 Troubleshooting Tools

NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — No bootable partition on HDD or Not a bootable floppy in floppy driver, or HDD/Floppy cable loose, or No bootable device exists.

• If the floppy drive is your boot device, ensure that a bootable floppy disk is in the drive.

• If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the cables are connected and that the drive is installed properly and partitioned as a boot device.

• Enter system setup and ensure that the boot sequence information is correct (see "Entering System Setup" on page 172).

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning or motherboard failure (see "Getting Help" on page 183 for assistance).

NON-SYSTEM DISK OR DISK ERROR —Replace the floppy disk with one that has a bootable operating system or remove the floppy disk from drive A and restart the computer.

NOT A BOOT DISKETTE —Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart your computer.

USB OVER CURRENT ERROR — Disconnect the USB device. Use external power source for the USB device.

NOTICE - HARD DRIVE SELF MONITORING SYSTEM HAS REPORTED THAT A

PARAMETER HAS EXCEEDED ITS NORMAL OPERATING RANGE. DELL RECOMMENDS THAT YOU BACK UP YOUR DATA REGULARLY. A PARAMETER OUT OF RANGE MAY OR MAY NOT INDICATE A POTENTIAL HARD DRIVE PROBLEM.—S.M.A.R.T

error, possible HDD failure. This feature can be enabled or disabled in BIOS setup.

Troubleshooting Tools 79

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, perform the checks in Lockups and Software Problems (see "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 58) and 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.

See "System Setup" on page 172 to review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device that 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, see

page 183.

Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is

"Getting Help

known to be working properly.

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select Utility Partition 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 computer and try again.

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.

Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility

Windows® desktop; then, shut down your

partition on your hard drive.

80 Troubleshooting Tools

" on

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 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

Windows® desktop; then, shut down your

CD/DVD/CD-RW

<Enter>.

Select the

Boot from CD-ROM

option from the menu that appears and

press <Enter>.

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

Select

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

from the numbered list. If multiple

versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer.

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

appears, select the test you want

to run.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the the button for the option you want.

NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test

on your computer.

Main Menu

screen appears, click

and press

Option Function

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

Troubleshooting Tools 81

After you have selected the

Tes t S ys te m

option from the main menu, the

following menu appears:

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.

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 see "Getting Help" on page 183.

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test

screen. If you contact Dell, technical support will ask for your Service Tag.

If you run a test from the

Custom Test or Symptom Tree

option, click the

applicable tab 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.

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for

running the test.

82 Troubleshooting Tools

Tab Function

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

Main Menu

close the

Remove the

screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer,

Main Menu

Drivers and Utilities

screen.

media (if applicable).

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.

Troubleshooting Tools 83

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.

NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this procedure.

Windows® XP:

Click

Start

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

, then click

Control Panel

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Windows Vista®:

Click

Start

Click

and right-click

Properties Device Manager

NOTE: The User Account Control (located to the left under Ta sk s window)

may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue.

Computer

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 84

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.

NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this procedure.

Windows XP:

Click

Start

Click

, then click

System

Control Panel

84 Troubleshooting Tools

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Click the

Drivers

tab Roll Back Driver

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Properties

Windows Vista:

Click

Start

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 enter the Device Manager.

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Click the

Drivers

tab Roll Back Driver

Computer

Properties

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore ("Restoring Your Operating System" on page 88) 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 ("Restoring Your Operating System" on page 88) does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the Drivers and Utilities media.

With the Windows desktop displayed, insert the

If this is your first time to use the

Drivers and Utilities media

, go to step 2.

If not, go to step 5.

When the

Drivers and Utilities media

installation program starts, follow

the prompts on the screen.

When the

Drivers and Utilities media

When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the

InstallShield Wizard Complete

and click

Finish

window appears, remove the

to restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities media

Troubleshooting Tools 85

At the

Welcome Dell System Owner

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media displays drivers only for hardware that

came installed in your computer. If you installed additional hardware, the drivers for the new hardware might not be displayed by the Drivers and Utilities media. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the Drivers and Utilities media program. For drivers information, see the documentation that came with the device.

A message appears, stating that the

screen, click

Drivers and Utilities

media is detecting

hardware in your computer.

The drivers that are used by your computer are automatically displayed in the

My Drivers—The

components in your system

Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on

Drivers and Utilities

window.

media has identified these

the screen.

If a particular driver is not listed, that driver is not required by your operating system.

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this procedure.

After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous section:

Windows XP:

Click

Start

, and then right-click

Click the

Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver.

Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.

Click the

Click

Hardware

Driver

tab, then click

Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)

Browse

and browse to the location to which you previously extracted

My Computer

Device Manager

Update Driver

Properties

, then click

the driver files.

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Finish

, and then restart your computer.

86 Troubleshooting Tools

Windows Vista:

Click

Start

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 enter the Device Manager.

Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver

Audio

(for example,

Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.

Click the

software

Click the driver files.

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click the name of the driver

Click

Driver

Browse

and browse to the location to which you previously copied

 OK

Finish

and restart your computer.

Video

tab

Update Driver Browse my computer for driver

Computer

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Windows

systems

Windows

Windows Vista®:

Help And Support to assist you in resolving the incompatibility.

XP:

Click

Start

Ty p e arrow to start the search.

Click

In the

conflict on my computer,

Click

Under

, then click

hardware troubleshooter

Hardware Troubleshooter

Start

and click

Find an answer

Help and Support

in the

list, click

and then click

Help and Support.

, click

Troubleshooting

in the

Search Results

I need to resolve a hardware

Operating

field, then click the

list.

Troubleshooting Tools 87

Select the option that best describes the problem and follow the troubleshooting steps.

NOTE: Windows Vista is a new operating system, so many older devices may

not have drivers or applications for Windows Vista. Check with your hardware manufacturer for further information on their device.

NOTE: If you do not find the answer in the items categorized in Troubleshooting,

you can get Online Help - type in your question in the Search Help.

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

• System Restore 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.

• Dell PC Restore by Symantec (available in Windows XP) and Dell Factory Image Restore (available in Windows Vista) restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Both permanently delete all data on the hard drive and remove any programs installed after you received the computer. Use Dell PC Restore or Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

•

If you received

to restore your operating system. Use the CD not resolve your operating system problem.

Operating System

CD with your computer, you can use it

only

if System Restore did

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. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access the Windows Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 14.

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.

88 Troubleshooting Tools

Creating a Restore Point

NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not

monitor your data files or recover them.

NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this procedure.

Windows XP:

Click

Start

Click

All Programs

Create a restore point

and follow the remaining on-screen prompts.

Accessories

System Tools

System Restore

Windows Vista:

Click

Start

and click

Click

System and Maintenance

In the Tasks list, click

Click

Create

Follow the instructions on the screen. Windows Vista will automatically

Control Panel

and click

System Protection

System

set restore points at important events - driver and application installs.

You can also manually create a restore point from the Windows Vista Back Up and Restore Center. There are two ways to get to the Windows Vista Backup and Restore Center:

Click

Show all 14 items

Welcom e Cent er

Click

Start

Center



below the

. Click

Back Up and Restore Center

All Programs

Connect to the Internet

Maintenance Back Up and Restore

icon in the

icon.

In the Back Up and Restore Center, under the tasks, click create a restore point or change settings.

For more information, use Help and Support and search for restore.

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see "Using Windows Device Driver Rollback" on page 84) to resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.

Troubleshooting Tools 89

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.

NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this

procedure.

Windows XP:

Click

Start

, point to

click

System Restore

Ensure that

Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.

The

Select a Restore Point

Restore my computer to an earlier time

All Programs

Accessories

System Tools

is selected, then click

screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.

Select a restore point, then click

If a calendar date has only one restore point, that restore point is automatically selected. If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.

Click

The

Restoration Complete

screen appears after System Restore finishes

collecting data, then the computer restarts.

, and then

After the computer restarts, click OK.

Windows Vista:

Click

Start

, point to

Up and Restore Center

In the Tasks list, click

All Programs Maintenance

and then click

Repair Windows using System Restore.

Back

You will see

a UAC dialog box asking for permission to run the application — click

Continue

Follow the prompts on the screen to complete the restore. After System

Restore finishes collecting data, the computer restarts.

After the computer restarts, click OK.

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

90 Troubleshooting Tools

Using Dell PC Restore and Dell Factory Image Restore

NOTICE: Using Dell PC Restore or Dell Factory Image Restore permanently deletes

all data on the hard drive and removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using these options. Use PC Restore or Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

NOTE: Dell PC Restore by Symantec and Dell Factory Image Restore may not be

available in certain countries or on certain computers.

Use Dell PC Restore (Windows XP) or Dell Factory Image Restore (Windows Vista) only as the last method to restore your operating system. These options restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer—including data files—are permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data before using PC Restore and Dell Factory Image Restore.

Windows XP: Dell PC Restore

Turn on the computer.

During the boot process, a blue bar with

www.dell.com

of the screen.

Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press <Ctrl><F11>.

If you do not press <Ctrl><F11> in time, let the computer finish starting, and then restart the computer again.

appears at the top

NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the

following step.

On the next screen that appears, click

On the next screen, click

Confirm

Restore

The restore process takes approximately 6–10 minutes to complete.

When prompted, click

NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the

computer completely reboot.

Finish

to reboot the computer.

Troubleshooting Tools 91

When prompted, click

Yes

The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the screens that appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that appeared the first time the computer was turned on.

Click

System Restore

The

After the computer restarts, click OK.

Windows Vista: Dell Factory Image Restore

Turn on the computer. When the Dell logo appears, press <F8> several

screen appears and the computer restarts.

times to access the Vista Advanced Boot Options Window.

Select

Repair Your Computer

System Recovery Options

The

Select a keyboard layout and click

To access the recovery options, log on as a local user. To access the command prompt, type

Click

NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select Dell

Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore.

administrator

Dell Factory Image Restore

window appears.

in the User name field, then click OK.

The Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen appears.

Click Next.

The Confirm Data Deletion screen appears.

NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with Factory Image Restore, click Cancel.

Click the checkbox to confirm that you want to continue reformatting the hard drive and restoring the system software to the factory condition, then click

The restore process begins and may take five or more minutes to complete.

A message appears when the operating system and factory-installed applications have been restored to factory condition.

Click

Finish

to reboot the system.

92 Troubleshooting Tools

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’s operating system.

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’s operating system to its original state.

To remove PC Restore:

Log on to the computer as a local administrator.

In Windows Explorer, go to

Double-click the filename

NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator, a message appears

stating 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’s 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.

c:\dell\utilities\DSR

DSRIRRemv2.exe

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)

in Windows Explorer, click

Properties

verify that the additional disk space is available as indicated by the increased value for

Click

Finish

Restart the computer.

Free Space

to close the

PC Restore Removal

Troubleshooting Tools 93

window.

, and

Using the Operating System CD

Before You Begin

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows Device Driver Rollback. (see "Using Windows Device Driver Rollback" on page 84). If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver (see "Using Microsoft Windows System Restore" on page 88).

NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary

hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.

To reinstall Windows, you need the following items:

•Dell™

•

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media contains drivers that were installed during

Reinstalling Windows XP or Windows Vista

The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.

Operating System

Drivers and Utilities

assembly of the computer. Use the Drivers and Utilities media to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from where you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the CDs or DVDs, the Drivers and Utilities media and Operating System CD may not ship with your system.

media

NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows

Vista. The options will overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows Vista unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.

NOTE: It is highly recommended that you attempt to perform a Windows system

restore first and then, if necessary, a Dell operating system restore (to take it back to as-shipped condition), before attempting a complete operating system reinstallation. Complete reinstallation of the operating system is a complex task.

94 Troubleshooting Tools

Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.

Insert the

Vista

Restart the computer. Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo

Operating System

message appears.

CD. Click

Exit

if the

Install Windows

appears.

If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the 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 CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive and press <Enter>.

Press any key to Boot from CD-ROM.

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.

Troubleshooting Tools 95

96 Troubleshooting Tools

Removing and Installing Parts

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or

other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

CAUTION: Do not operate your computer with any cover(s) (including computer

covers, bezels, filler brackets, front-panel inserts, and so on.) removed.

CAUTION: Some of the parts described in this chapter may be replaceable by a

certified service technician only and are not custom replaceable.

Before You Begin

This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:

• You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 98 and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 98.

• You have read the safety information in the Dell™

• A component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.

Recommended Tools

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

• Small flat-blade screwdriver

• Small Phillips screwdriver

• Small plastic scribe

• Flash BIOS executable update program on the Dell Support website at

support.dell.com

Product Information Guide.

Removing and Installing Parts 97

Turning Off Your Computer

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open

programs before you turn off your computer.

Windows® XP:

Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.

Click

Start

Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your

Turn Off Computer

Tur n o f f

computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off.

Windows Vista®:

Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.

Click

Start

, click the arrow , and then click

Shut Down

The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.

Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off.

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help to ensure your own personal safety.

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components

or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.

NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your

computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.

98 Removing and Installing Parts

NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its pull-tab, not

on the cable itself. Some cables have connectors with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer

and then unplug the cable from the network device.

Disconnect all telephone or network cables from the computer.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery

before you service the computer.

Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.

Press the power button to ground the system board.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or

other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Open the computer cover.

NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by

touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate static electricity, which could harm internal components.

Removing the Computer Cover

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or

other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97.

NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the removed cover.

NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid

scratching either the computer or the surface on which it is resting.

Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up.

Removing and Installing Parts 99

Remove the two thumbscrews securing the cover, using a flat-blade screwdriver.

1 computer cover 2 front of computer

3 thumbscrew (2)

Release the computer cover by pulling it away from the front of the computer and lifting it up.

Set the cover aside in a secure location.

100 Removing and Installing Parts

Dell DCMA User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Dell™ Inspiron™ 531 Owner’s Manual

Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front View of the Computer

Back View of the Computer

Back Panel Connectors

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Playing CDs and DVDs

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Connecting Two Monitors

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

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

Connecting a TV

Changing the Display Settings

Power Management

Power Management Options in Microsoft® Windows® XP

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Options Properties

Power Schemes Tab

Advanced Tab

Hibernate Tab

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Plan Properties

Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet Technology

About RAID Configurations (For Windows Vista only)

RAID Level 1 Configuration

Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID

Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility

Using Nvidia MediaShield

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Network Setup Wizard

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tips

Battery Problems

Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems

Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

Keyboard Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up

The computer stops responding

A program stops responding

A program crashes repeatedly

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system

A solid blue screen appears

Other software problems

Media Card Reader Problems

Memory Problems

Mouse Problems

Network Problems

Power Problems

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

No sound from speakers

No sound from headphones

Video and Monitor Problems

If the screen is blank

If the screen is difficult to read