Dell Dimension C521 User Manual

Dell™ Dimension™ C521

Owner’s Manual

FlexBay for optional floppy drive or Media Card Reader

Service Tag

CD or DVD activity light

CD or DVD eject button

headphone connector

microphone connector

diagnostic lights

cover release latch

card slots for PCI (1), PCI Express x1 (1) PCI Express x16 (1)

USB 2.0 connectors (2)

hard drive activity light

power button

power connector

audio connectors

USB 2.0 connectors (4)

network adapter

VGA video connector (integrated)

Model DCNE

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.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary" on page 127.

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

Windows®

____________________

Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerConnect,

PowerVault, PowerApp, XPS, Dell TravelLite, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. AMD, AMD Athlon, and combinations thereof, and Cool ’n’ Quiet are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC 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 DCNE

August 2006 P/N RP333 Rev. A00

Contents

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Front View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Back View of the Computer

Back Panel I/O Connectors

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

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

Connecting a USB Printer

Connecting to the Internet

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Playing CDs and DVDs

Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD Using Blank CDs and DVDs Helpful Tips

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

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

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

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

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

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

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Network Setup Wizard

Power Management

Standby Mode Hibernate Mode

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

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

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

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

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

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

Power Options Properties

Power Schemes Tab Advanced Tab Hibernate Tab

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

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

Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet™ Technology

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

Contents 3

2 Solving Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Troubleshooting Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Battery Problems

Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

Keyboard Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up The computer stops responding A program stops responding A program crashes repeatedly

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system A solid blue screen appears Other software problems

Media Card Reader Problems

Memory Problems

Mouse Problems

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . 37

4 Contents

Network Problems

Power Problems

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

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

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

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

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

Sound and Speaker Problems

No sound from speakers No sound from headphones

Video and Monitor Problems

The screen is blank

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

The screen is difficult to read

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

3 Advanced Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Power Light and Diagnostic Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Power Light Diagnostic Lights

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Dell Diagnostics

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

Drivers

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

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft Using Dell™ PC Restore by Symantec Removing Dell PC Restore

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

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

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

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

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

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

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

Windows® XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

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

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

4 Removing and Installing Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer

Removing the Computer Cover

Inside View of Your Computer

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

System Board Components

Memory

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

DDR2 Memory Overview Installing Memory Removing Memory

Cards

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Drives

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

General Installation Guidelines Drive Interface Connectors

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Contents 5

Power Cable Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Hard Drive

Floppy Drive

Media Card Reader

CD/DVD Drive

Battery

Replacing the Computer Cover

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

Removing a Hard Drive Installing a Hard Drive

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

Removing a Floppy Drive Installing a Floppy Drive

Removing a Media Card Reader Installing a Media Card Reader

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

Removing a CD/DVD Drive Installing a CD/DVD Drive

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

Replacing the Battery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

6 Contents

System Setup

Overview Entering System Setup System Setup Options Boot Menu

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Clearing Forgotten Passwords and CMOS Settings

Jumper Locations Clearing Password Settings Clearing CMOS Settings

Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor Mouse

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

Floppy Drive CDs and DVDs

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Dell Hardware Warranty Support Policy (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals

. . . . . . . . . 107

. . . . . . . . . . . 107

FCC Notice (U.S. Only)

FCC Class B

Contacting Dell

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

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

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Contents 7

8 Contents

Finding Information

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

media may not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• My device documentation

• Desktop System Software (DSS)

Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as ResourceCD)

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may be optional and may

not ship with your computer.

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 53), to run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50), or to access your documentation.

Readme files may be included on your CD to provide last-minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technical reference material for technicians or experienced users.

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at

support.dell.com.

Dell™ Product Information Guide

Finding Information 9

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

Setup Diagram

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License

These labels are located on your computer (see "Front View of the Computer" on page 13).

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

support.dell.com

contact support.

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

10 Finding Information

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business segment to view the

appropriate support site.

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

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

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

• Service and Support — Service call status, support history, service contract, and online discussions with 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 reinstall the DSS utility prior to installing any drivers. DSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell™ 3.5-inch USB floppy drives, AMD processors, 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.

• How to use Windows XP

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

To download Desktop System Software:

Go to

™

support.dell.com

segment, and then enter your Service Tag.

Select

Click your operating system, and then search for the keyword

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

depending on your selections.

Windows Help and Support Center

Click

Start→

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.

, select your region or business

Drivers & Downloads

Desktop System Software

Help and Support

, then click Go.

Finding Information 11

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to reinstall my operating system

Operating System CD

NOTE: The Operating System CD may be optional and may

not ship with your computer.

The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the Operating System CD (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 54).

NOTE: If you reinstall the operating system for your

computer, you should reinstall the DSS utility prior to installing any drivers.

varies based on the operating system you ordered.

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

Your operating system product key label is located on your computer.

NOTE: The color of your CD

12 Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front View of the Computer

3 4

6 7 8

1 cover release latch Use this latch to remove the cover (see "Front View of the

Computer" on page 13).

2 Service Tag Use to identify your computer when you access the Dell

Support website or call support.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 13

3 FlexBay drive Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional Media Card

Reader. For information on using the Media Card Reader, see "Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)" on page 24.

4 CD or DVD activity light The drive light is on when the computer reads data from the

CD or DVD drive.

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

6 microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal computer

microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

7 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most

kinds of speakers.

8 diagnostic lights (4) Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem

based on the diagnostic code. For more information, see "Power Light and Diagnostic Lights" on page 47.

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

occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see "System Setup Options" on page 98 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.

10 power button Press to turn on the computer.

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

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

11 hard-drive activity light The hard drive activity light is on when the computer reads

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

12 vents To ensure adequate cooling, do not block any of the vents.

14 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

NOTICE: Ensure that there is a minimum of two inches of

space between all vents and any object near these vents.

NOTICE: Keep the vent area clean and dust-free to ensure

that the system is adequately ventilated. Use only a dry cloth to clean the vent area to avoid water damage to the system.

Back View of the Computer

1 2

1 voltage selection switch See the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide for more

information.

2 power connector Insert the power cable.

3 back panel I/O connectors Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connectors (see "Back

Panel I/O Connectors" on page 16).

4 card slots (3) Access connector slots for expansion cards:

• SLOT1 PCI Express x16

• SLOT2 PCI Express x1

• SLOT3 PCI

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15

Back Panel I/O Connectors

910

1 link integrity light

2 network adapter

connector

2113

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

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

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

NOTICE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network connector.

Use the network adapter connector to attach your computer to a network or broadband device. Connect one end of a network cable to either a network jack or your network or broadband device, and then connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached.

On computers with an additional network connector card, use the connectors on the card and on the back of the computer when setting up multiple network connections (such as a separate intra- and extranet).

NOTE: 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 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.

4 surround sound

connector

5 line-in connector Use the (blue) line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a

Use the (black) surround sound connector to attach multichannel-capable speakers.

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

cassette player, CD player, or VCR.

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

16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

6 line-out/headphone

connector

7 microphone connector Use the (pink) microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone

8 center/subwoofer LFE

connector

Use the (green) line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with integrated amplifiers.

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

for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

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

Use the (orange) center/subwoofer connector to attach a center speaker or a single subwoofer.

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

NOTE: The LFE (Low Frequency Effects) Audio channel, found in digital surround

sound audio schemes, 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 setup.

9 side surround sound

connector

10 USB 2.0 connectors (4)

(rear quad)

Use the (gray) side surround sound connector to attach multichannel-capable speakers. The side-surround output provides enhanced surround audio for computers with 7.1 speakers.

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

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

NOTE: It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that

you connect occasionally, such as joysticks, cameras, or bootable USB devices.

VGA video connector If your monitor has a VGA connector, plug it into the VGA connector on the

computer.

Setting Up a Printer

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

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

• Obtain and install updated drivers

• Connect the printer to the computer

• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge

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

Printer Cable

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 17

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 only fit into the ports when correctly oriented.

1 USB connector on

computer

Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the appears, click

Install the printer driver, if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.

Cancel

2 USB printer cable 3 USB connector on printer

Add New Hardware Wizard

window

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

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

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

18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

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

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

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

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP:

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

Click the

The

Click

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

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

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

• If you have a CD, click

Click

If you selected on the screen to complete the setup.

Start

button, then click

New Connection Wizard

Connect to the Internet

providers (ISPs)

click

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

Set up my connection manually

Internet Explorer

appears.

Choose from a list of Internet service

, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions

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

Click the appropriate option under

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

How do you want to connect to the Internet?

, and then click

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 33. 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.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 19

Playing CDs and DVDs

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

not using the drive.

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

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

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

Press the disc into the center of the tray until it clicks into place.

Press the eject button or gently push in the tray.

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

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

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

Play

Move backward within the current track

Pau se

Move forward within the current track

Stop

20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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

Help

For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click

on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Adjusting the Volume

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

Click the

Control

In the increase or decrease the volume.

For more information on volume control options, click

Start

button, point to

Volume Control

All Programs → Accessories→ Entertainment

window, click and drag the bar in the

Help

in the

, and then click

Volume Control

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 21

column up or down to

window.

Volume

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:

Click the

Under

In the

800 by 600 pixels

Click the drop-down menu under

Click OK.

Start

button, then click

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display Properties

, click

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Change the screen resolution

window, click and drag the bar in

Color quality

, then click

Screen resolution

Medium (16 bit)

to change the setting to

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 www.sonic.com.

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

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus.

Click

Start

, point to

Under the

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Copy

If you have one CD/DVD drive

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

All Programs→ Roxio→ Creator Projects

tab, click

Disc Copy

, ensure that the settings are correct, and then click

, and then click

RecordNow Copy

Disc Copy

. The

•

If you have two CD/DVD drives

DVD, and then click

Disc Copy

, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or

. 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 Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +R W Yes Ye s Ye s

DV D -R W Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

Helpful Tips

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 23

• 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

www.sonic.com

for additional information.

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 about installing or removing a Media Card Reader, see "Media Card Reader" on page 83.

24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

1 xD-Picture Card and

SmartMedia (SMC)

2 CompactFlash Type-I and II

(CF I/II) and MicroDrive Card

3 Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)

4 SecureDigital Card (SD)/

MultiMediaCard (MMC)

To use the Media Card Reader:

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

Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector.

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 25

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.

NOTICE: Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack.

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

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

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

1 Network device 3 network adapter connector

2 network cable 4 network connector on the

26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

2 3

back of the computer

Network Setup Wizard

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

Click the

Network Setup Wizard

On the welcome screen, click

Click

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

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

Start

button, point to

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.

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

, and then click

Power Management

The Microsoft® Windows® XP power management features can reduce the amount of electricity your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can reduce power to just the monitor or the hard drive, or you can use standby mode or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire computer. When the computer exits from a power conservation mode, the Windows desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode.

NOTE: Windows XP Professional includes security and networking features not available in Windows XP Home

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

Standby Mode

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

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

Click the

2If Switch to Category View

Category View

Under

Under the and then click

Start

button, then click

Pick a category

or pick a Control Panel icon

Power Schemes

, click

Control Panel

appears in the

Performance and Maintenance

tab, change the settings in the drop-down boxes to those that you desire,

Control Panel

, click

Power Options

in the left of the window, click

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 27

Switch to

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

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.

Hibernate Mode

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

To activate hibernate mode:

Click the

Under

Define your hibernate settings on the "Power Options Properties" on page 28).

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 XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.

Start

button, then click

Pick a category

or pick a Control Panel icon

before it entered hibernate mode.

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

, click

Power Schemes

Power Options

tab,

Advanced

tab, and

Hibernate

tab (see

Power Options Properties

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

Click the

Under

Define your power settings on the

Start

button, then click

Pick a category

or pick a Control Panel icon

Power Schemes Tab

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

28 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

To access the Power Options Properties window:

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

, click

Power Schemes

Power Options

tab,

Advanced

tab, and

Hibernate

tab.

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

•

Always On

Home/Office Desk

•

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

— If you use your computer as a home or office computer and you require minimal

power conservation.

•

Portable/Laptop

•

Presentation

•

Minimal Power Management

Max Battery

•

— If your computer is a portable computer that you use for traveling.

— If you want your computer to run without interruption (using no power conservation).

— If you want your computer to run with minimal power conservation.

— If your computer is a portable computer and you run your computer from batteries for

extended periods of time.

If you want to change the default settings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the Turn off monitor, Turn off hard disks, System standby, 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.

NOTICE: If you set the hard drive (hard disk) to time-out before the monitor does, your computer may appear to be

locked up. To recover, press any key on the keyboard or click the mouse. To avoid this problem, always set the monitor to time-out before the hard drive.

Advanced Tab

The Advanced tab allows you to:

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

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

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

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

Hibernate Tab

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

For more information on power management options:

Click the

In the

Start

button, then click

Help and Support

window, click

Help and Support

Performance and maintenance

window, click

Conserving power on your computer

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 29

Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet™ Technology

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

Enter system setup, select setting to

Click on the window.

From the

Management

Cool ’n’ Quiet technology is now enabled.

(see "System Setup Options" on page 98).

Start→Settings→Control Panel→Power Options

Power Schemes

and then click OK.

Cool and Quiet

tab, click the Power Schemes drop-down menu and select

from the

Power Management

to access the

group, and change the

Power Options Properties

Minimal Power

30 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

+ 110 hidden pages

Dell Dimension C521 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front View of the Computer

Back View of the Computer

Back Panel I/O Connectors

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Playing CDs and DVDs

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Network Setup Wizard

Power Management

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Options Properties

Power Schemes Tab

Advanced Tab

Hibernate Tab

Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet™ Technology