Dell DCSLF User Manual 2

Download

Dell™ Vostro™ 200

Owner’s Manual – Slim Tower

Model DCSLF

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 185.

____________________

Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Vostro, 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, Outlook, and Windows Vista are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks, SpeedStep and Core are trademarks of Intel Corporation.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Model DCSLF

July 2007 P/N PK009 Rev. A01

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

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

Connecting a USB Printer

Playing CDs and DVDs

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional) . . . . . . . . . 30

Connecting Two Monitors

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

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

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

Connecting a TV

Changing the Display Settings

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

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

. . . . . . . 20

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

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . 32

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

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

. . . 15

Contents 3

Power Management Options in Windows XP . . . . . 33

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Options Properties

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

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

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

Power Management Options in Windows Vista

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Plan Properties

Enabling SpeedStep™ Technology

About RAID Configurations

RAID Level 1 Configuration

Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel ROM Utility

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel Storage Manager

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

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . 41

Option

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

Matrix

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

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

. . . . . . . . . 51

. . . . . . . . 54

. . . . 36

. . . . . . 47

3 Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

4 Contents

Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Battery Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Optical drive problems

Hard drive problems

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

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

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

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

See the setup diagram that came with your system.

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

support.dell.com

• 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.

or contact support.

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

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.

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.

To download

Go to

support.dell.com

Downloads

Enter your Service Tag or product model.

In the menu, click

Select the operating system and operating system language for your computer, and click

Under

and Configuration Utilities Dell Desktop System Software

Desktop

System Software:

and click

Download Category

All

Submit.

Select a Device

, scroll to

drop-down

System

, and click

Finding Information 13

What Are You Looking For? Find it Here

• How to use Windows Vista™

• 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™, click the Windows Vista Start button click

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

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Start and click

Help and Support

and

14 Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front View of the Computer

6 7

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15

1 location of Service Tag Use the Service Tag to identify your computer

when you access the Dell Support website or call technical support.

2 eject button for optical

drive

3 FlexBay open/close Press here to open or close the floppy/media card

4 optical drive Can contain an optional optical drive.

5 FlexBay drive Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional

6 power button Press the power button to turn on the computer.

7 power light The light in the center of this button indicates

8 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you

9 microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal

10 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach

11 drive activity light The drive activity light is on when the computer

Press here to open or close the optical drive.

reader panel

Media Card Reader. For information on using the Media Card Reader, see "Media Card Reader" on page 136.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the

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

power state.

connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see "System Setup Options" on page 172 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.

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.

headphones and most kinds of speakers.

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 back panel connectors Plug USB, audio, and other devices into the

appropriate connector. See "Back Panel Connectors" on page 18 for more information.

2 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI

Express cards.

3 power supply LED Indicates power availability for power supply.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 17

4 power connector Insert the power cable.

5 padlock rings Padlock rings are for attaching a commercially

available 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.

Back Panel Connectors

1 network activity

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.

18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

2 network adapter

connector

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.

3 link integrity light

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

• Green — A good connection exists between a 10/100-Mbps network and the computer.

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

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.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 19

7 microphone

connector

8 side L/R surround

connector

9 rear L/R surround

connector

10 USB 2.0

connectors (4)

11 VGA video

connector

Use the pink connector to attach a personal 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.

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.

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 in your Owner’s Manual reflect

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 165.

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

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

20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 21

• 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 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.

22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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.

1 USB connector on

computer

2 USB connector on

printer

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 23

3 USB printer cable

Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer.

Depending on your computer’s operating system, a printer wizard may be available to help you install the printer driver:

In Windows

XP, click

Start→

Printers and Faxes→ Add a printer

the Add Printer Wizard.

In Windows Vista™, click

→

Network→ Add a printer

Start

the Add Printer Wizard.

Install the printer driver if necessary. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 88 and the documentation that came with your printer.

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 out, in the center of the tray. Secure the edges of the disc under the tabs along the edge of the tray.

to start

Gently push in the tray.

NOTE: If you use a module that shipped with another computer, you need to install

the drivers and software necessary to play DVDs or write data. For more information, see the Drivers and Utilities CD.

24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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

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).

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 25

Adjusting the Volume

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

Open the

Click and drag the bar in the down to increase or decrease the volume.

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

Volume Control

window.

Volume Control

column and slide it up or

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

Start→

Under

Under setting.

In the drop-down menu under click

Windows Vista

Click Start → Control Panel→ Appearance and Personalization

Under

Display Properties

The

Control Panel→ Appearance and Themes

Pick a task...

Screen resolution

Personalization

, click

Change the screen resolution

, click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution

Color quality

, click

Adjust Screen Resolution

window appears.

, click

Medium (16 bit)

and

Under

Resolution:

In the drop-down menu under

Click OK.

26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

click and drag the bar reduce the resolution setting.

Colors:

, click

Medium (16 bit)

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 using Roxio Creator Plus - Dell Edition. You can also use Roxio Creator Plus for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Roxio Creator Plus, 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 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 Roxio Creator Plus.

Open Roxio Creator Plus.

Under the

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

Copy

tab, click

If you have one CD/DVD drive

then click

Disc Copy

, ensure that the settings are correct, and

. 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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 27

•

If you have two CD/DVD drives

inserted your source CD or DVD, and then click

, 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.

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 media), 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 the maximum storage capacity of a CD-R is reached, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on the CD later.

Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of data. 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 the disc later.

CD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Yes Ye s Ye s

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Yes Ye s Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +R W Ye s Ye s Ye s

28 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

DV D -R W Yes Yes Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Maybe No No

DVD-RAM Maybe No No

Helpful Tips

• After you start Roxio Creator Plus and open a Creator project, you can use Microsoft

Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or

CD-RW.

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

• You cannot create audio DVDs with Roxio Creator Plus.

• 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 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

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 138.

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)

30 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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 flatpanel 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 99.

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 99.

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 99.

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 clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings.

Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.

• In clone mode, both monitors display the same image.

• In extended desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to

the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

For information on changing the display settings for your graphics card, go to

support.dell.com.

Power Management Options in 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

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

Click

Start→

Maintenance

Under

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

Start

→

Turn Off Computer→ Stand by.

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

Control Panel→

or pick a Control Panel icon

Pick a category→

, click

Power Options

Performance and

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

To exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit 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.

Start→

Maintenance

Under

Define your hibernate settings on the and

Hibernate

Control Panel→

or pick a Control Panel icon

tab.

Pick a category→

, click

Power Options

Power Schemes

Performance and

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. Options Properties window:

Click

Start→

Maintenance

Under

Define your power settings on the

Hibernate

Power Schemes Tab

Control Panel→

Pick a category→

or pick a Control Panel icon

tab.

, click

Power Schemes

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 time-out before the hard drive.

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

•

Always On

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

conservation.

•

Home/Office Desk

— If you want your home or office computer to run

with little power conservation.

•

Portable/Laptop

— If your computer is a portable computer that you use

for traveling.

•

Presentation

— If you want your computer to run without interruption

(using no power conservation).

•

Minimal Power Management

— If you want your computer to run with

minimal power conservation.

•

Max Battery

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

computer from batteries for extended periods of time.

To access the Power

Performance and

Power Options

tab,

Advanced

tab, and

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 dropdown 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 hibernation check box on the Hibernate tab.

Additional Information

For more information on power management options:

Click

Start→

In the

your computer

Help and Support→

Performance and maintenance

window, click

Conserving power on

Power Management Options in Windows Vista

The Microsoft 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. Windows Vista sets the default "off" state to standby mode, or you can set hibernate mode to reduce power even further.

36 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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 power conservation mode.

Windows Vista has three main default power management modes:

• Balanced

•

Power Save

• High Performance

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

Standby Mode

Standby mode is the default "off" state for Windows Vista. Standby 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

Under

Pick a category

Under

System and Maintenance

The next dialog box shows three power plans. The top option, Dell Recommended, is the currently active plan. To display additional power

plans, click the arrow at the bottom of the list.

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

Start

and click the off button icon. Windows Vista sets Standby as the

default off state.

Control Pane

, click

System and Maintenance

, click

Power Options

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 37

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

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

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 will have retained 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, but also keeps your data safe by storing it to the hard drive.

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. For additional information, go to Help and Support and search for hibernate.

To activate hibernate mode immediately (if available):

Click

Start

and click the

Select

Hibernate

from the list.

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.

arrow

Power Plan Properties

You can define standby mode settings, display mode settings, hibernate mode settings (if available), and other power settings in the Power Plan Properties window.

38 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

To access the Power Plan Properties window:

Click

Start

and click

Under

Pick a category

Under

System and Maintenance

This takes you to the main

In the

Select A Power Plan

Control Panel

, click

System and Maintenance

Select a Power Plan

, click

Power Options

window.

window, you can change or modify power

settings.

To change the default settings for a plan:

Click

Start

Under

Pick a category

Under

System and Maintenance

and click

, click

Control Panel

System and Maintenance

, click

Power Options

In the Power Options window, click Change Plan Settings 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 settings. If you do not know or are not sure what to set, leave the settings at the default.

To access the advanced settings:

Choose the

Click

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

Settings dialog box. Use care when making setting changes.

Click

Start and go to Help and Support for more information.

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

Enabling SpeedStep™ Technology

SpeedStep 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 Vista automatically sets Intel Speedstep technologies in the Dell

Recommended, Balanced, and Power Saver power plans. It is disabled in the High Performance power plan.

About RAID Configurations

This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration that you might have selected when you purchased your computer. Although several RAID configurations are available, Dell offers only RAID level 1 for its Vostro computers. RAID level 1 configuration is recommended for the data integrity requirements of digital photography and audio.

The Intel RAID controller on your computer can only create a RAID volume using two physical drives. If a third drive is present, then that drive cannot be made part of a RAID volume using the Intel RAID configuration program, although it can be used as a spare drive in a RAID 1 configuration (see "Creating a Spare Hard Drive" on page 46). However, if four drives are present in your computer, then each pair of drives can be set as a RAID level 1 volume. The drives 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." When data is written to the primary drive, it is then duplicated, or mirrored, on the other drive. A RAID level 1 configuration sacrifices high data access rates for its data redundancy advantages.

40 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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. Also, because data is duplicated on both drives, two 120-GB RAID level 1 drives collectively have a maximum of 120 GB on which to store data.

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

size of the smallest drive in the configuration.

Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID

At some point you may want to configure your computer for RAID if you did not select a RAID configuration when you purchased your computer. You must have at least two hard drives installed in your computer to set up a RAID configuration. For instructions on how to install a hard drive, see "Hard Drives" on page 126.

You can use one of two methods to configure RAID hard drive volumes. One method uses the Intel install the operating system onto the hard drive. The second method uses the Intel Matrix Storage Manager or Intel Storage Utility, and this method is performed after you have installed the operating system and the Intel Storage

Option ROM utility, and is performed before you

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 41

Utility. Both methods require that you set your computer to RAID-enabled mode before starting any of the RAID configuration procedures in this document.

Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode

Enter the system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 170).

Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

Drives

tab.

Drive Controller

, then

press <Enter>.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

RAID On

, and then press

<Enter>.

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

on page 172.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

Save/Exit

, and press

<Enter> to exit system setup and resume the boot process.

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel® Option ROM Utility

NOTE: Although any size drives may be used to create a RAID configuration using

the Intel Option ROM utility, ideally the drives should be of equal size. In a RAID level 1 configuration, the size of the array will be the smaller of the two disks used.

Creating a RAID Level 1 Configuration

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 42).

Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter Intel RAID Option ROM.

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

Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default, and press <Enter>.

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

If there are more than two hard disks available, use the up- and downarrow keys and space bar to select the two disks you want to use to make up your array, and then press <Enter>.

Create RAID Volume

RAID1(Mirror)

, and press

, and

42 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Select the desired capacity for the volume, and press <Enter>. The default value is the maximum available size.

Press <Enter> to create the volume.

Press <y> to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.

Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main Intel Option ROM screen.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select

Install the operating system.

Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.

NOTE: If your computer currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume in

the Intel RAID Option ROM, your computer will become unbootable.

Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option

Exit

, and press <Enter>.

ROM utility.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

Delete RAID Volume

press <Enter>.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the RAID volume you want to delete, and press <Delete>.

Press <y> to confirm the deletion of the RAID volume.

Press <Esc> to exit the Intel Option ROM utility.

, and

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager

If you already have one hard drive with the operating system installed on it, and you want to add a second hard drive and reconfigure both drives into a RAID volume without losing the existing operating system and any data, you need to use the migrating option (see "Migrating to a RAID 1 Volume" on page 45 or "Migrating to a RAID 1 Volume" on page 45). Create a RAID 1 Volume only when:

• You are adding two new drives to an existing single-drive computer (and the operating system is on the single drive), and you want to configure the two new drives into a RAID volume.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 43

• You already have a two-hard drive computer configured into an array, but you still have some space left on the array that you want to designate as a second RAID volume.

Creating a RAID 1 Volume

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 42).

In Windows XP, click

Manager

→

Intel Matrix Storage Console

Start→ All Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Utility.

In Windows Vista, click

→

Manager

Intel Matrix Storage Manager

Start

→ Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Utility.

NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your

computer to RAID-enabled mode (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 42).

On the

Actions

menu, select

Create RAID Volume

to launch the Create

RAID Volume Wizard.

Click

at the first screen.

Confirm the volume name, select

to continue.

Select Volume Location

click

On the

RAID 1

as the RAID level, and then

screen, click the first hard drive you want to use to create your RAID 1 volume, and then click the right arrow. Click a second hard drive until two drives appear in the then click

In the click

Click

Follow Microsoft Windows procedures for creating a partition on the new

Specify Volume Size

Finish

to create the volume, or click

window, select the

Selected

Volum e Si ze

Back

to make changes.

window, and

desired and

RAID volume.

44 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTE: While this procedure deletes the RAID 1 volume, it also splits the RAID 1

volume into two non-RAID hard drives with a partition, and leaves any existing data files intact. Deleting a RAID 0 volume, however, destroys all data on the volume.

In Windows XP, click

Manager

→

Intel Matrix Storage Console

Start→ All Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Utility.

Start

In Windows Vista, click

Manager

→

Intel Matrix Storage Manager

→ Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Utility.

Right-click the select

Delete Volume

On the

Highlight the RAID volume you want to delete in the

Delete RAID Volume Wizard

Vol um e

icon of the RAID volume you want to delete, and

screen, click

Available

the right-arrow button to move the highlighted RAID volume into the

Selected

Click

Migrating to a RAID 1 Volume

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see "Setting Your Computer to

box, and then click

Finish

to delete the volume.

RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 42).

In Windows XP, click

Manager

→

Intel Matrix Storage Console

Start→ All Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Utility.

In Windows Vista, click

Manager

→

Intel Matrix Storage Manager

Start

→ Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Utility.

box, click

NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your

computer to RAID-enabled mode (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 42).

On the

Drive

Click

Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default.

Actions

menu, click

Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard

to launch the Migration Wizard.

on the first Migration Wizard screen.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 45

From the drop-down box, select

NOTE: Select the hard drive that already has the data or operating system files that

you want to maintain on the RAID volume as your source hard drive.

On the

Select Source Hard Drive

which you want to migrate, and click

On the

Select Member Hard Drive

RAID 1

as the RAID level

screen, double-click the hard drive from

screen, double-click the hard drive to select the member drive that you want to act as the mirror in the array, and click

On the click

NOTE: In the following step, you will lose all data contained on the member drive.

Click

Specify Volume Size

Finish

to start migrating, or click

screen, select the volume size you want, and

Back

to make changes. You can use

your computer normally during migration process.

Creating a Spare Hard Drive

A spare hard drive may be created with a RAID 1 array. The spare hard drive will not be recognized by the operating system, but you will be able to see the spare drive from within Disk Manager or the Intel Option ROM Utility. When a member of the RAID 1 array is broken, the computer automatically rebuilds the mirror array using the spare hard drive as the broken member’s replacement.

To Mark a Drive as a Spare Hard Drive:

In Windows XP, click

Manager

→

Intel Matrix Storage Console

Start→ All Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Utility.

In Windows Vista, click

Manager

→

Intel Matrix Storage Manager

Start

→ Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Utility.

Right-click the hard drive you want to mark as a spare hard drive.

Click

Mark as Spare

To Remove Spare Marking From a Spare Hard Drive:

Right-click the spare hard drive icon.

Click

Reset Hard Drive to Non-RAID.

46 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Rebuilding a Degraded RAID 1 Volume

If your computer does not have a spare hard drive, and the computer has reported a degraded RAID 1 volume, you can manually rebuild the computer’s redundancy mirror to a new hard drive by performing the following steps:

In Windows XP, click

Manager

Utility.

In Windows Vista, click

Manager

Utility.

Right-click the available hard drive to which you want to rebuild the RAID 1 volume, and click

NOTE: You can use your computer while the computer is rebuilding the RAID 1

volume.

→

Intel Matrix Storage Console

→

Intel Matrix Storage Manager

Start→ All Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Start

→ Programs→ Intel®Matrix Storage

to launch the Intel® Storage

Rebuild to this Disk

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.

Transferring Information using Windows XP

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

• E-mail messages

• Toolbar settings

• Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or serial connection, or you can store it on removable media, such as a writable CD, for transfer to the new computer.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 47

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

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

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

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

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

NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System media. This media is optional

and may not be included with certain computers.

To prepare a new computer for the file transfer:

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

When the click

On the

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

source computer. Do

not

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

→ Next

screen appears, go to your old or

click

at this time.

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I will use the wizard

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

additional tasks

Under

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

Which computer is this?

, click

screen, click

Operating System

screen, click

media.

Perform

Transfer files and settings→ Next

Old Computer→

48 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

On the

Select a transfer method

screen, click the transfer method you

prefer.

On the transfer and 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

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the chose for transferring your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

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

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

Finished

screen

appears.

Click

Finished

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

and restart the new computer.

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

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

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

When the click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

Wizard Disk in the following drive

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

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

→

Next.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 49

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I want to create a

When the disk creation completes and the message appears,

Go to the old computer.

do not

click

Now go to your old computer

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click

Start→

In the the appropriate removable media) and click

On the

Run

Open

field on the

Run

window, browse to the path for

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you

fastwiz

welcome screen, click

Old Computer→

prefer.

On the transfer and 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

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the chose for transferring your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

. Follow the

instructions on the screen.

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

(on

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

Finished

appears.

Click

Finished

NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search support.dell.com for

document #154781 (What Are The Different Methods To Transfer Files From My Old

Computer To My New Dell™ Computer Using the Microsoft Operating System?).

and restart the new computer.

Windows® XP

50 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

screen

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

certain countries.

Transferring Information using Windows Vista

The Windows Vista operating system provides the 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 Easy Transfer wizard:

• When Windows Vista setup is completed, you will see the Windows Vista Welcome Center. One icon in the Welcome Center is

Settings

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

Tools

. Click this icon to start Windows easy Transfer.

Start

→

→ Easy Transfer.

All Programs→

Transfer Files and

Accessories→

System

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.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 51

1 network adapter connector 2 network device

3 network adapter connector on computer 4 network cable

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

Start

, point to

then click

On the welcome screen, click

Click

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

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

Network Setup Wizard

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.

screen.

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

, and

52 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Windows Vista

lick

Start ,

network.

Select an option under

Click

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

and then click

Choose a connection option.

, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

Connect to→ Set up a connection or

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.

• 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 and Using Your Computer 53

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 Windows Vista 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.

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

and Internet Problems" on page 60." 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

Start→

The

New Connection Wizard

Click

Connect to the Internet

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

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

list of Internet service providers (ISPs)

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

• If you have a CD, click

Click

If you selected Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

Internet Explorer

appears.

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

Set up my connection manually

Choose from a

, continue to step 6.

Click the appropriate option under

Internet?

, and then click

54 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

How do you want to connect to the

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

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

Windows Vista

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

the Internet wizard can help you get one.

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

Click Start , and click

Under

Network and Internet,

The

Connect to the Internet

Click either

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

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

Dial-up

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

provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 55

56 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 customer 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 143). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 183).

Solving Problems 57

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 —

Windows XP

• Click

Windows Vista™

• Click Start and click

If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive

ENSURE THAT THE DRIVE IS ENABLED IN THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 170)

TEST THE DRIVE —

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

• Insert bootable media and restart the computer.

Start

and click

original one is defective.

My Computer

Computer

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 178.

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Restoring Your Operating

System" on page 91.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive" on page 84.

58 Solving Problems

Optical drive problems

NOTE: High-speed optical 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 75.

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 — See "Power Management Options in Windows XP" on page 33 or search

for the keyword standby in Windows Help and Support for information on power management modes

Solving Problems 59

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK —

Windows XP

Click

Start

and click

Right-click

Click

Windows Vista

Click

Right-click

Click The

computer, click desired action.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

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

Start

Local Disk C: Properties→ Tools→

User Account Control

My Computer

and click

Continue

Check Now

Computer

Check Now

window may appear. If you are an administrator on the

; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the

and click

Start

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 MICROSOFT OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS — If you cannot open your e-mail attachments:

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

Tools→

Options→

to remove the checkmark.

Security

60 Solving Problems

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK USE 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 DIAGNOSTICS TOOL —

Windows XP

Click

Start→

All Programs→

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

Modem Helper

Modem Helper is not available on certain computers.

Windows Vista

Click

Start

→

All Programs→ Modem Diagnostic Tool

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

Modem diagnostics are not available on all computers.

Solving Problems 61

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Windows XP

Click

Start→

Control Panel→

→

Modem Options

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

to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.

Modem

Modems

Printers and Other Hardware→ Phone and

Query

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

Windows Vista

Click

Start

→

Control Panel→

→

Options

Click the COM port for your modem→

Modem

Modems

to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.

Hardware and Sound→

Properties → Diagnostics→

Phone and Modem

Query

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

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service provider.

62 Solving Problems

Error Messages

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

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

A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you are trying to

open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program:

Windows XP

Click

Start→

Control Panel→ Add or Remove Programs→ Programs and

Fea tures

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Windows Vista

Click

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

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

Uninstall

Start

→

Uninstall

Control Panel→ Programs→ Programs and Features

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.

Solving Problems 63

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

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 100), 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 170)

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 91.

64 Solving Problems

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.

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 65

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→ Accessories→ Program Compatibility Wizard

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Windows Vista

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

Click

Start

→

Control Panel→ Programs→ Use an older program with this

version of Windows.

In the welcome screen, click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

→

A solid blue screen appears

66 Solving Problems

Media Card Reader Problems

NO DRIVE LETTER IS ASSIGNED —

When Windows detects the Media Card Reader, 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 does not automatically assign a drive letter to the Media Card Reader.

To manually assign a drive for the Media Card Reader:

Windows XP

Click

Start

Right-click

Select the

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

Select

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

Click OK to confirm your selection.

Windows Vista

Click

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

Select

Click

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.

My Computer

Disk Management

, then select

option.

Drive Letter and Paths.

Start

, right-click

Continue

if prompted.

Expand the Storage object

Computer,

and

Change Drive Letter and Paths

Change

Manage

and select

Manage

select Disk Management.

68 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 111).

• Reseat the memory modules (see "Installing Memory" on page 112) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84).

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory Installation Guidelines" on page 111) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Installing Memory" on page 112).

• Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 165.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84).

Solving Problems 69

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 170.

Start

menu.

Shut down

Turn Off

, and

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

CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS —

Windows XP

Click

Start→ Control Panel→

Adjust the settings as needed.

Mouse

Windows Vista

Click

Start

→ Control Panel→ Hardware and Sound→ Mouse

Adjust the settings as needed.

70 Solving Problems

REINSTALL THE MOUSE DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 88.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 91.

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 168.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN

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 "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 91.

Solving Problems 71

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 79.

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 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 105).

• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 105).

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 111).

• Remove and then reinstall any cards (see "Cards" on page 115).

• Remove and then reinstall the graphics card, if applicable (see "Removing a PCI/PCI Express Card" on page 120).

72 Solving Problems

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

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.

Solving Problems 73

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Windows XP

Click

Start→

Control Panel→

printers or fax printers

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

Click

Properties→

following port(s):

Print to the following port(s):

the

Windows Vista

Click

Start

→ Control Panel→ Hardware and Sound→ Printer

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

Click

Properties

Adjust the settings, as needed.

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

Ports

setting is

and click

Printers and Other Hardware→

. For a parallel printer, ensure that the

LPT1 (Printer Port)

setting is

Ports

. For a USB printer, ensure that

USB

View installed

Print to the

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

74 Solving Problems

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→

Control Panel→

Cameras

If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

Windows Vista

Click

Cameras

If the scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

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

Start

→ Control Panel→ Hardware and Sound→ Scanners and

Printers and Other Hardware→

Scanners and

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 170.

Solving Problems 75

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.

REINSTALL THE SOUND DRIVER — See "Manually Reinstalling Drivers" on page 90.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 91.

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.

76 Solving Problems

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

PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 170.

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.

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.

CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS — See "Power Lights" on page 79.

Solving Problems 77

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.

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→

Control Panel→

Click the area you want to change or click the

Try different settings for

Windows Vista

Click

Start

Display Settings

Adjust

Resolution

→ Control Panel→ Hardware and Sound→ Personalization

and

Appearance and Themes

Color quality

Colors

and

settings, as needed.

Display

icon.

Screen resolution

→

78 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 "Power Lights" on

page 79.

• 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 "Power Lights" on

page 79.

Troubleshooting Tools 79

• 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 111).

– Remove and then reinstall any cards (see "Cards" on page 115).

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

on page 115).

• 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 105).

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

connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 105).

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 startup:

Write down the beep code.

Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84).

80 Troubleshooting Tools

Code (repetitive short beeps)

1 BIOS checksum failure. Possible

2 No memory modules are

3 Possible motherboard failure Contact Dell.

4 RAM Read/Write failure Ensure that no special memory

5 Real time clock failure. Possible

6 Video BIOS Test Failure Contact Dell.

7 CPU cache test failure Contact Dell.

Description Suggested Remedy

Contact Dell.

motherboard failure.

If you have two or more memory

detected

battery failure or motherboard failure.

modules installed, remove the modules, reinstall one module (see "Installing Memory" on page 112), 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 112).

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

module/memory connector placement requirements exist (see "Memory Installation Guidelines" on page 111).

Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your computer (see "Memory Installation Guidelines" on page 111).

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

Replace the battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 143).

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

Troubleshooting Tools 81

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 "Contacting Dell" on page 183 for assistance.

CMOS CHECKSUM ERROR — Possible motherboard failure or RTC battery low. Replace battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 143). See "Contacting Dell" on page 183 for assistance.

CPU FAN FAILURE — CPU fan failure. Replace CPU fan. See "Processor" on page 152.

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 "Contacting Dell" on page 183 for assistance.

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

HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE — Possible hard disk drive failure during HDD POST. Check cables or swap hard disks. See "Contacting Dell" on page 183 for assistance.

HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — Possible HDD failure during HDD boot test. See "Contacting Dell" on page 183 for assistance.

KEYBOARD FAILURE — Keyboard failure or keyboard cable may be loose. See"Keyboard Problems" on page 64.

82 Troubleshooting Tools

NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — No bootable partition on hard drive, no bootable floppy in floppy driver, the hard drive or floppy cable is 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 170.

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning or motherboard failure. See "Contacting Dell" 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 or possible hard drive failure. This feature can be enabled or disabled in the BIOS setup.

Troubleshooting Tools 83

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 65) 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 170 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

"Contacting Dell

known to be working properly.

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

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

Diagnostics

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

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

from the boot menu and press <Enter>.

wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop; then, shut down your 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.

partition on your hard drive.

84 Troubleshooting Tools

" on

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media

Insert the

Shut down and restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities

media.

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

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

to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop; then, shut down your computer and try again.

NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the

next startup, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the system setup program.

When the boot device list appears, highlight

CD/DVD/CD-RW

and press

<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.

Main Menu

screen appears, click

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

your computer.

Option Function

Test Memory Runs the stand-alone memory test

Test System Runs System Diagnostics

Exit Exits the Diagnostics

Troubleshooting Tools 85

After you have selected the

Tes t Sy ste 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 Tests a specific device or customize the tests to be run.

Symptom Tree 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 "Contacting Dell" 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.

86 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

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

Main Menu

the

Remove the

screen.

Drivers and Utilities

media (if applicable).

Main

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 87

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.

Windows XP

Click

Start

and click

Under

Pick a Category

Hardware→

Scroll down the list of devices and check for an exclamation point (a circle with a [

Device Manager

) next to the device name.

If an exclamation point appears next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 88).

Windows Vista

Click

Start → Computer→

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue.

Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [

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 88).

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance→

System Properties→ Device Manager

]) on the device icon.

System→

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.

88 Troubleshooting Tools

Windows XP

Click

Start

and click

Under

Pick a Category→

System Properties→

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed, then click

Properties

Click

Driver

and click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance→

Hardware→

Roll Back Driver

Device Manager

System

→

Windows Vista

Click

Start → Computer→

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager.

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

Properties

Click

Drivers

and click

Roll Back Driver

System Properties→ Device Manager

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore ("Restoring Your Operating System" on page 91) 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 91) 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.

media.

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

When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the

InstallShield Wizard Complete

media and click

Finish

window appears, remove the

to restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities

Troubleshooting Tools 89

media.

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 Drivers and Utilities media has identified these

components in your system

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

window.

the screen.

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

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

After extracting the driver files from the Drivers and Utilities media to your hard drive, you may be required to update the driver manually.

Windows XP

Click

Start

and click

Under

Pick a Category

System Properties→

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

Right-click the device for which the driver is being reinstalled, then click

Properties

Click

(Advanced)

Click to check

Driver→ Update Driver→

→ Next

Control Panel

, click

Hardware→

Performance and Maintenance→

Device Manager

Install from a list or specific location

Include this location in the search

, then click

System

Browse

→

and

navigate to where the driver files are located on your hard drive.

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Finish

and restart your computer.

90 Troubleshooting Tools

Windows Vista

Click

Start → Computer→

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager.

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

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

Click

Click the driver files.

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

Click OK→

Audio

Video

Driver→

Browse

Update Driver→ Browse my computer for driver software

and browse to the location to which you previously copied

Finish

System Properties→ Device Manager

and restart your computer.

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) returns 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 does not resolve your operating system problem.

• If you received an it to restore your operating system. However, using the disc also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the disc Restore does not resolve your operating system problem.

Operating System

disc with your computer, you can use

Operating System

only

if System

Troubleshooting Tools 91

Using Microsoft Windows System Restore

The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. Any changes that System Restore makes to your computer are completely reversible.

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

monitor your data files or recover them.

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default

view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view.

Starting System Restore

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.

Windows XP

Click

Start→

Restore

Click either

point

Click

Windows Vista

Click

Start

In the Start Search box, type

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→

Restore my computer to an earlier time

and follow the remaining on-screen prompts.

System Restore

System

Create a restore

and press <Enter>.

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

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

Click

and follow the remaining prompts on the screen.

In the event that System Restore did not resolve the issue, you may undo the last system restore.

92 Troubleshooting Tools

Undoing the Last System Restore

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

exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

Windows XP

Click

Start→

Restore

Click

Undo my last restoration

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→

and click

System

Windows Vista

Click

Start

In the Start Search box, type

Click

Undo my last restoration

Enabling System Restore

NOTE: Windows Vista does not disable System Restore; regardless of low disk

space. Therefore, the steps below apply only to Windows XP.

System Restore

and click

and press <Enter>.

If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled.

To see if System Restore is enabled:

Click

Click the

Start→

Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance→ System

System Restore

tab and ensure that

Turn off System Restore

unchecked.

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

Troubleshooting Tools 93

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 or Factory Image Restore.

Windows XP: Dell PC Restore

Using PC Restore:

Turn on the computer.

During the boot process, a blue bar with

www.dell.com

appears at the top

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.

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

Click

Restore

and click

Confirm

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

When prompted, click

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

computer completely reboot.

When prompted, click

Finish

to reboot the computer.

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

The

System Restore

After the computer restarts, click OK.

screen appears and the computer restarts.

Removing PC Restore:

NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC

Restore utility from your computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your computer operating system.

94 Troubleshooting Tools

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 harddrive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard drive, you cannot ever recall it, and you will never be able to use PC Restore to return your computer operating system to its original state.

Log on to the computer as a local administrator.

In Microsoft® Windows® Explorer, go to

Double-click the filename

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

stating that you that you must log on as administrator. Click Quit, and then log on as a local administrator.

NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer hard

drive, a message appears stating that the partition was not found. Click Quit; there is no partition to delete.

Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.

Click

Yes

when a confirmation message appears.

DSRIRRemv2.exe

c:\dell\utilities\DSR

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

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

Click

Finish

Free Space

to close the

PC Restore Removal

window and restart the

computer.

Windows Vista: Dell Factory Image Restore

Using Factory Image Restore:

Turn on the computer. When the Dell logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the Vista Advanced Boot Options Window.

Select

Repair Your Computer

The System Recovery Options window appears.

Select a keyboard layout and click

Troubleshooting Tools 95

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

Dell Factory Image Restore

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

Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore.

click

Click

administrator

in the User name field, then

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.

Using the Operating System Media

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 "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 88. If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver. See "Using Microsoft

Windows System Restore" on page 92.

System Restore

to return your

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™

•Dell

Operating System

Drivers and Utilities

media

96 Troubleshooting Tools

NOTE: The

during the assembly of the computer. Use the load any required drivers. Depending on the region from which you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the media, the

media

Reinstalling Windows XP or Windows Vista

Dell

Drivers and Utilities

and

Operating System

media

contains drivers that were installed

Dell

Drivers and Utilities

Dell

Drivers and Utilities

media may not ship with your computer.

media

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.

NOTICE: The Operating System media provides options for reinstalling

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

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

Insert the

Click

Restart the computer.

Operating System

Exit

if the

Install Windows

disc.

message appears.

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

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

to wait until you see the Microsoft 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 Drive

and press <Enter>.

Press any key to

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.

Boot from CD-ROM

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.

Troubleshooting Tools 97

Windows XP

Click

Start

and click

Ty p e

hardware troubleshooter

Help and Support

in the

field and click the

arrow to start the search.

Click

Hardware Troubleshooter

In the

Hardware Troubleshooter

conflict on my computer

in the

list, click

, and click

Search Results

list.

I need to resolve a hardware

Windows Vista

Click

Start

Ty p e

hardware troubleshooter

and click

Help and Support.

in the search field and press

<Enter> to start the search.

In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.

98 Troubleshooting Tools

Removing and Installing Parts

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

certified service technician only and are not customer 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 100 and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 100.

• 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 99

Turning Off Your Computer

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

programs before you turn off your computer.

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

Shut down the operating system:

• In Windows XP, click

Start→

• In Windows Vista, click

Shut Down

Turn Off Computer→

Start

, click the arrow , and then click

Tur n of f

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 8-10 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 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.

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.

100 Removing and Installing Parts

Dell DCSLF User Manual 2

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

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

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 Options in Windows XP

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Options Properties

Power Management Options in Windows Vista

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Plan Properties

Enabling SpeedStep™ Technology

About RAID Configurations

RAID Level 1 Configuration

Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel® Option ROM Utility

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager

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

Optical 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

Troubleshooting Tools

Power Lights

Beep Codes

System Messages

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics