Dell Dimension C521 User Manual

Download

Page 1

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

Page 2

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

Page 3

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

Page 4

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

Page 5

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

Page 6

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

Page 7

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

Page 8

8 Contents

Page 9

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

Page 10

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

Page 11

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

Page 12

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

Page 13

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

Page 14

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.

Page 15

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

Page 16

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

Page 17

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

Page 18

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

Page 19

• 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

Page 20

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

Page 21

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

Page 22

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

Page 23

•

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

Page 24

• 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

Page 25

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

Page 26

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

Page 27

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

Page 28

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.

Page 29

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

Page 30

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

Page 31

Solving Problems

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 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 located 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

on page 89

). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 108

"Battery"

Drive Problems

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

the Product Information Guide.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button, then

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

Solving Problems 31

Page 32

TEST THE DRIVE —

• Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.

• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK — See

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See

on page 54

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See

"Cleaning Your Computer" on page 105

"Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"

"Dell Diagnostics" on page 50

CD and DVD drive problems

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

the drive or the CD or DVD.

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

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —

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

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

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

CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 43.

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.

32 Solving Problems

Page 33

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

Click the

Under

From the

Start

button and click

Pick a Category

, click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

or pick a Control Panel icon

Power Schemes

tab, select

, click

Power Options

Always On

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK —

Click the

Right-click

Click

Click the

Under

Click

Start

button, then click

Local Disk C:

Properties

Tools

tab.

Error-checking

, click

Check Now

My Computer

Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors Start

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

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

To ol s

, click

Options

to remove the checkmark.

, and then click

Security

Solving Problems 33

Page 34

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION —

HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK —

C C

ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK —

SE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —

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

• Ensure that you hear 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, bypass them and use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.

RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Click the Start button, point to All Programs, and then click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. Modem Helper is not available on all computers.

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

Click the

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click

Start

button, then click

Control Panel Printers and Other Hardware Phone and Modem Options

Modems

Properties

tab.

, click the

Diagnostics

tab, and then click

Query Modem

to verify that the modem is

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

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

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.

34 Solving Problems

Page 35

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:

Click the

Select the program you want to remove.

Click the

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.

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.

Start

button, click

Change or Remove Program

Control Panel

, and then click

icon.

Add or Remove Programs

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 108

Keyboard Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located 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 59), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer.

• Ensure that the cable is not damaged or frayed and check cable connectors for bent or broken pins. Straighten any 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. Then, try using the keyboard.

Solving Problems 35

Page 36

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See

on page 54

"Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"

Lockups and Software Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

The computer does not start up

CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS — See

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

LECTRICAL OUTLET

"Power Light and Diagnostic Lights" on page 47

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.

36 Solving Problems

Page 37

A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —

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

Click the

Wizard

In the welcome screen, click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories

, and then click

Program Compatibility

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off, then restart your computer.

Media Card Reader Problems

NO DRIVE LETTER IS ASSIGNED —

When Microsoft Windows XP 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 XP does not automatically assign a drive letter to the Media Card Reader.

To manually assign a drive for the Media Card Reader:

Right-click My Computer, then select

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.

Disk Management

Drive Letter and Paths.

option.

NOTE: Each slot in the Media Card Reader is mapped to a drive letter. A Media Card Reader slot only

appears as a mapped drive when a media card is installed in it. If you attempt to access a drive that is mapped to an empty Media Card Reader slot, you are prompted to insert media.

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.

Manage

Memory Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located 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" on page 64).

• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 64) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50).

38 Solving Problems

Page 39

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 64) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Memory" on page 64).

• Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 64.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50).

Mouse Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

CLEAN THE MOUSE — For instructions on cleaning the mouse, see

"Mouse" on page 106

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —

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

Reconnect the mouse cable as shown in 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

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

Start

menu.

Shut down

Turn Off

, and then press <Enter>.

computer.

Start the computer.

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

CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Try adjusting the settings.

Start

Mouse

button, click

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

REINSTALL THE MOUSE DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 53.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See

on page 54

"Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"

Solving Problems 39

Page 40

Network Problems

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

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 "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 54.

"Back Panel I/O Connectors" on page 16

Power Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS GREEN AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING — See "Power Light and

Diagnostic Lights" on page 47.

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

40 Solving Problems

Page 41

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.

• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 63).

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER — A device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

• Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 64).

• Remove and then reinstall any cards (see "Cards" on page 68).

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER — The computer is receiving electrical power, but an internal power problem might exist.

• Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location (if applicable).

• Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 63).

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 located in the

Product Information Guide.

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

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

ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON

Solving Problems 41

Page 42

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 17).

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

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click the

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

Click

port(s):

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

Start

button, click

View installed printers or fax printers

Properties, then

setting is

USB

Control Panel

click the

Ports

tab. For a USB printer, ensure that the

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Print to the following

Scanner Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

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

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

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

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.

42 Solving Problems

Page 43

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS —

Click the

Click If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

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

Start

button, click

Scanners and Cameras

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Sound and Speaker Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located 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 97.

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.

Solving Problems 43

Page 44

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

REINSTALL THE SOUND DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 53.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"

on page 54.

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 13).

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

ENSURE THAT THE CORRECT AUDIO SOLUTION IS ENABLED IN THE BIOS SETUP PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 97.

Video and Monitor Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.

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 if the power cable is defective.

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

44 Solving Problems

Page 45

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 Light and Diagnostic Lights" on page 47.

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 —

Click

Start

, click

Control Panel

Click

Display, then

Try different settings for

click the

, and then click

Settings

tab.

Screen resolution

and

Appearance and Themes

Color quality.

Solving Problems 45

Page 46

46 Solving Problems

Page 47

Advanced Troubleshooting

Power Light and Diagnostic Lights

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

the Product Information Guide.

Your computer has a power light and four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4" on the front panel to help you troubleshoot problems (see "Front View of the Computer" on page 13). When the computer starts normally, the diagnostic lights flash. If the computer malfunctions, the color and sequence of the lights identify the problem.

Power Light

Power Light Problem Description Suggested Resolution

Off The computer is in a normal "off" condition

or in a power-conserving mode.

Solid green The computer has successfully booted and

is operating normally.

Blinking green The computer is in a Windows standby

power-saving state (S1 or S3).

Solid Amber A pre-POST failure has occurred. The

system has received a Power Good signal from the power supply.

Blinking Amber A possible power supply failure has

occurred. The system has not received a Power Good signal from the power supply

None. Press the power button to wake the computer or to turn the computer on.

None.

None. Move the mouse, press the spacebar, or use another device that has been configured as a wake-up device to wake the computer.

See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 48 for more information.

If this does not resolve your problem, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 108).

Plug the computer into a working electrical outlet. Also see "Power Problems" on page 40.

Advanced Troubleshooting 47

Page 48

Diagnostic Lights

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

The computer is in a normal condition or a possible pre-POST failure has occurred.

The computer is in recovery mode. None.

A possible processor failure was detected. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on

See "Power Light" on page 47.

page 108).

Memory modules are detected, but a memory failure has occurred.

A possible graphics failure has occurred. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

A possible floppy drive or hard drive failure has occurred.

A possible USB failure has occurred. Reinstall all USB devices, check cable

• If you have two or more memory modules installed, remove the modules, reinstall one module (see "Memory" on page 64), 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 properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Memory" on page 64).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 108

"Contacting Dell" on page 108).

Reseat all power and data cables and restart the computer.

connections, and then restart the computer.

48 Advanced Troubleshooting

Page 49

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

No memory modules are detected.

• If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Memory" on page 64).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell

"Contacting Dell" on page 108

(see

Memory modules are detected, but a memory configuration or compatibility error exists.

• Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements exist (see "Memory" on page 64).

• Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your computer (see "Memory" on page 64).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 108).

A possible expansion card failure has occurred.

Determine whether a conflict exists by removing a card and restarting the computer (see "Cards" on page 68).

If the problem persists, reinstall the card that you removed, remove a different card, and then restart the computer.

Repeat this process for each card. If the computer starts normally, troubleshoot the last card removed from the computer for resource conflicts (see "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 54).

If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 108

Routine system activity subsequent to video initialization.

Watch your monitor for on-screen messages.

Advanced Troubleshooting 49

Page 50

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

System resource configuration in progress. None.

System board failure has occurred.

During normal operation, all of the diagnostic lights turn on and then turn off before the system starts.

NOTE: If all of the diagnostic lights are on

and the system does not start, there may be a problem with the power supply or with the processor.

Contact Dell

page 108)

If the system does not start, plug the computer into a working electrical outlet. Also see "Power Problems" on page 40.

If there are no power problems and the system does not start, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 108).

(see "Contacting Dell" on

Dell Diagnostics

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

Product Information Guide.

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on page 31 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

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

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

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

If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft page 59) and try again.

Windows® desktop, then shut down your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on

When the boot device list appears, highlight

When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu" on page 51).

50 Advanced Troubleshooting

Main Menu

Boot to Utility Partition

, then press <Enter>.

appears, select the test you want to run (see "Dell Diagnostics

Page 51

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the you want.

Option Function

Express Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes 10 to

20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly.

Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically takes

an hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically.

Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you want

to run.

Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows you

to select a test based on the symptom of the problem you are having.

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 follow the instructions on the screen.

If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see

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

the following table for more information.

Main Menu

Symptom Tree

screen appears, click the button for the option

"Contacting Dell" on page 108

option, click the applicable tab described in

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.

Advanced Troubleshooting 51

Page 52

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.

Close the test screen to return to the computer, close the

Main Menu

screen.

screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the

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.

NOTE: If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should reinstall the DSS utility prior to installing

any drivers.

Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft® Windows® operating system. You may need to install drivers if you:

• Upgrade your operating system.

• Reinstall your operating system.

• Connect or install a new device.

Identifying Drivers

If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.

Windows XP

Click the

Under

Click

52 Advanced Troubleshooting

Start

button, then click

Pick a Category

System

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

Page 53

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

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

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

device icon.

If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver.

Reinstalling Drivers

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com provides approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you

install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.

Click the

Under

Click

In the

Click

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

Click the

Click

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.

Start

button, then click

Pick a Category

System

System Properties

Device Manager

Drivers

tab.

Roll Back Driver

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Properties

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

After copying the required driver files to your hard drive, click the

My Computer

Click

Properties

Click the

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

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

Click the

Click

Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)

Click

Browse

Hardware

Driver

tab, then click

Device Manager

Update Driver

, then click

and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.

Start

button, and then right-click

Advanced Troubleshooting 53

Page 54

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Finish

and restart your computer.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

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

To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:

Click the

Ty p e

Click

In the then click

Start

button, then click

hardware troubleshooter

Hardware Troubleshooter

Help and Support

in the

list, click

in the

field, then click the arrow to start the search.

Search Results

I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer

list.

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

• Microsoft Windows XP System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files.

• Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications installed after you received the computer.

, and

Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow 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. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore.

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 work if you

set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.

Creating a Restore Point

Click the

Click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

54 Advanced Troubleshooting

Start

button, then click

System Restore

Help and Support

Page 55

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see "Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback" on page 53) to resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use 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.

Click the

Restore

Ensure that

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

The

Start

button, point to

Restore my computer to an earlier time

Select a Restore Point

All Programs→

Accessories→

System Tools

is selected, then click

, and then click

System

screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points.

All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.

Select a restore point, then click

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

Click

The

Restoration Complete

screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the

computer restarts.

After the computer restarts, click OK.

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

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.

Click the

Restore

Click

Enabling System Restore

Start

button, point to

Undo my last restoration

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

, then click

, and then click

System

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 the

Click

Start

button, then click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

System

Advanced Troubleshooting 55

Page 56

Click the

Ensure that

System Restore

tab.

Turn off System Restore

is unchecked.

Using Dell™ PC Restore by Symantec

NOTE: Dell PC Restore is not available in all countries.

Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system. PC Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer 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.

NOTICE: Using PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications or drivers

installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using PC Restore.

To use PC Restore:

Turn on the computer and watch the keyboard status lights.

Immediately upon seeing the lights flash, press <Ctrl><F11>.

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

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

On the next screen that appears, click

On the next screen, click

Confirm

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

—

including data files—are permanently deleted from the hard

Restore

When prompted, click

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

When prompted, click

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.

56 Advanced Troubleshooting

Finish

to reboot the computer.

Yes

Page 57

Removing Dell PC Restore

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

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

Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your computer, even to gain additional hard-drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard drive, you cannot retrieve it, and you will not be able to use PC Restore to return your computer’s operating system to its original state.

To remove PC Restore:

Log on to the computer as a local administrator.

In Windows Explorer, go to

Double-click the filename

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

administrator. Click Quit, and then log on as a local administrator.

NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer’s hard drive, a message appears stating

that the partition was not found. Click Quit; there is no partition to delete.

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

Click

Yes

when a confirmation message appears.

The PC Restore partition is deleted and the newly available disk space is added to the free space allocation on the hard drive.

c:\dell\utilities\DSR

DSRIRRemv2.exe

Right-click

Local Disk (C)

in Windows Explorer, click

space is available as indicated by the increased value for

Click

Finish

to close the

Restart the computer.

PC Restore Removal

window.

Properties

Free Space

, and verify that the additional disk

Advanced Troubleshooting 57

Page 58

58 Advanced Troubleshooting

Page 59

Removing and Installing Parts

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" and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 60.

• You have read the safety information in your Dell™

NOTE: Unless otherwise noted, 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

• Phillips screwdriver

• Flash BIOS executable update program on

support.dell.com

Turning Off Your Computer

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off

your computer.

Shut down the operating system:

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the

Turn Off Computer

In the

Turn off computer

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

window, click

Turn o f f

Product Information Guide.

Start

button, and then click

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 4 seconds.

Removing and Installing Parts 59

Page 60

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 located in the

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: 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 strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself.

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

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the

computer.

Turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 59).

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

network port or device.

Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.

Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

removing the cover.

Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 60).

NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface,

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

Removing the Computer Cover

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

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

removing the cover.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the removed cover—at least 30 cm (1 ft) of desktop space.

60 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 61

NOTICE: Work on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the computer or the surface on which it

rests.

If you have installed a padlock through the padlock ring on the back panel, remove the padlock.

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

NOTICE: Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not accidentally disconnect cables

from the system board.

Slide the cover release latch back and lift the cover.

Remove the cover and set it aside on a soft nonabrasive surface.

1 2 3

security cable slot

cover release latch

padlock ring

Removing and Installing Parts 61

Page 62

Inside View of Your Computer

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

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To avoid electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing

the computer cover.

NOTICE: Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not accidentally disconnect cables

from the system board.

1 drives bay (CD/DVD, floppy,

and hard drive)

4 card slots 5 heat sink assembly 6 front I/O panel

2 power supply 3 system board

62 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 63

System Board Components

11 10

Removing and Installing Parts 63

Page 64

1 fan connector(FAN_CPU1) 2 processor socket (CPU) 3 power connector

(PW_12V_A1)

4 memory module connectors

(DIMM_1, DIMM_2, DIMM_3, DIMM_4)

7 front-panel connector

(FRONTPANEL)

10 internal USB (USB1) 11 PCI Express x16 connector

13 PCI connector (SLOT3) 14 password jumper (PSWD) 15 floppy drive connector

5 power connector (POWER1) 6 SATA drive connectors

(SATA0, SATA1)

8 CMOS reset (RTCRST) 9 battery socket (BT1)

12 PCI Express x1 connector

(SLOT1)

(SLOT2)

(FLOPPY1)

Memory

If your computer only has one memory module installed on the system board, you can increase your computer memory by installing an additional memory module.

Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For additional information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Specifications" on page 93.

DDR2 Memory Overview

Your computer has a minimum memory configuration of one DDR2 memory module. This memory module must be installed in DIMM1. If two or more DDR2 memory modules are installed, they should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology. If the DDR2 memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. See the label on the module to determine the module’s capacity.

NOTE: Always install DDR2 memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.

NOTICE: Do not install ECC or buffered memory modules. Only unbuffered, non-ECC memory is supported.

The recommended memory configurations are:

• A memory module installed in connector DIMM1

• A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2

64 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 65

• A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2 and another matched pair installed in connectors DIMM3 and DIMM4

• If you install mixed pairs of DDR2 533-MHz (PC2-4300) and DDR2 667-MHz (PC2-5400) memory, the modules function at the slower installed speed.

Be sure to populate the memory modules in order starting with DIMM1, the connector closest to the edge of the system board, before you install modules in the other connectors.

1 Channel A: matched pair of

memory modules in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 (white securing clips)

NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.

NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them

separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly.

2 Channel B: matched pair of

memory modules in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4 (black securing clips)

Installing Memory

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

Product Information Guide.

Removing and Installing Parts 65

Page 66

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your

body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

memory connector closer to edge of board

securing clips (2)

connector

66 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 67

Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.

cutouts (2)

crossbar

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector while you

apply equal force to each end of the module.

Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.

memory module

notch

If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the module.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

When a message appears stating that memory size has changed, press <F1> to continue.

Log on to your computer.

Right-click the

Click the

To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.

My Computer

General

tab.

icon, then click

Properties

Removing and Installing Parts 67

Page 68

Removing Memory

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your

body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

Grasp the module and pull up.

If the module is difficult to remove, gently ease the module back and forth to remove it from the connector.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Cards

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your

body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards:

• One low-profile PCI card slot

• One low-profile PCI Express x1 and x16 card slot

68 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 69

1 PCI Express x1 card 2 PCI Express x16 card 3 PCI

4 PCI Express x1 card slot 5 PCI Express x16 card slot 6 PCI card slot

If you are installing or replacing an expansion card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing and not replacing an expansion card, see "Removing an Expansion Card" on page 73.

If you are replacing a card with a different type of card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.

Installing an Expansion Card

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Gently push the release tab on the inside of the card retention door to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.

If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening, then continue with step 5.

Removing and Installing Parts 69

Page 70

1 release tab 2 card retention door

If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.

If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.

Prepare the card for installation.

See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.

CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a network. To

guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.

Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.

70 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 71

1 bracket within slot 2 bracket caught outside of slot 3 alignment bar

4 alignment guide 5 fully seated card 6 not fully seated card

Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:

• The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.

• The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

Removing and Installing Parts 71

Page 72

1 release tab 2 card retention door 3 filler bracket

4 alignment guide 5 alignment bar

Close the card retention door by snapping it into place.

NOTICE: Do not route card cables over the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover

from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.

Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.

See the documentation for the card for information about the card’s cable connections.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

If you installed a sound card:

Enter system setup, select

Off

setting to

Connect external audio devices to the sound card’s connectors. Do not connect external audio

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

Integrated Audio

from the

Onboard Devices

group, and change the

devices to the line-in connector on the back panel of the computer. See "Back Panel I/O Connectors" on page 16.

72 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 73

If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter:

Enter system setup, select

Off

setting to

Connect the network cable to the network adapter card’s connectors. Do not connect the network

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

Integrated NIC

from the

Onboard Devices

group, and change the

cable to the integrated network connector on the back panel of the computer.

Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.

Removing an Expansion Card

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.

If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card.

Remove the card:

If you are removing a PCI or PCI Express x1 card, grasp the card by its top corners and ease it out of its connector. Then go to step 6.

If you are removing a PCI Express x16 card, go to step 5.

While pressing the lever, pull the card up and out of the card connector.

1 PCI Express x16 card 2 lever 3 securing slot

4 securing tab 5 PCI Express x16 card

connector

Removing and Installing Parts 73

Page 74

If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening.

NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the

computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.

Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:

• The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.

• The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the cards.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Remove the card’s driver from the operating system.

If you removed a sound card:

Enter system setup, select setting to

Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer. See

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

Integrated Audio

from the

Onboard Devices

group, and change the

"Back Panel I/O Connectors" on page 16.

If you removed an add-in network connector:

Enter system setup, select

setting to

Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the computer.

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

Integrated NIC

from the

Onboard Devices

group, and then change the

74 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 75

Drives

Your computer supports a combination of these devices:

• One serial ATA hard drive

• One optional floppy drive or Media Card Reader

• One CD or DVD drive

1 DVD drive 2 optional floppy drive or

media card reader

3 hard drive

General Installation Guidelines

Connect the SATA hard drive to the connector labeled "SATA0." Connect the SATA CD or DVD drives to the connector labeled "SATA1" on the system board. See "System Board Components" on page 63 for information about system board connectors.

Connecting Drive Cables

When you install a drive, you connect two cables—a DC power cable and a data cable—to the back of the drive and to the system board.

Removing and Installing Parts 75

Page 76

Drive Interface Connectors

Serial ATA Connector

1 interface cable 2 interface connector

Power Cable Connector

1 power cable 2 power input connector

Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables

When removing a serial ATA data cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector detaches. When connecting a serial ATA data cable, hold the cable by the black connector at each end.

76 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 77

Hard Drive

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

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

removing the cover.

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as

a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.

NOTICE: If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data you want to keep, back up your files before you begin

this procedure.

Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

Removing a Hard Drive

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

NOTE: In the following steps it is not necessary to disconnect the cables connecting the CD/DVD or floppy drive or

the Media Card Reader, as long as it does not obstruct your working area once it is set aside.

Remove the CD/DVD drive (if installed) from the bay and carefully set it aside (see "Removing a CD/DVD Drive" on page 87).

Remove the floppy drive or Media Card Reader (if installed) from the bay and carefully set it aside (see "Removing a Media Card Reader" on page 84 or "Removing a Floppy Drive" on page 81).

Press in on the two plastic securing clips on each side of the drive and slide the drive towards the back of the computer.

NOTICE: Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables. Doing so may cause damage to the cables

and the cable connectors.

Lift the drive out of the computer and disconnect the power and data cables from the drive.

Removing and Installing Parts 77

Page 78

1 securing clips (2) 2 hard drive

Installing a Hard Drive

Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as

a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.

Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation.

78 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 79

If your replacement hard drive does not have the plastic hard-drive bracket attached, remove the bracket from the existing drive by unsnapping it from the drive.

1 hard drive 2 release tabs (2) 3 plastic hard-drive bracket

Attach the bracket to the new drive by aligning the two securing tabs with the mounting holes in the hard drive and then rotating the drive down snapping it onto the bracket.

1 securing tabs (2) 2 hard drive 3 release tabs (2)

4 plastic hard-drive bracket

Removing and Installing Parts 79

Page 80

Connect the power and data cables to the drive.

Locate the correct guidance-slot for the drive (slot 1) and align the release tabs with the alignment guides.

1 hard drive 2 slot verification number

Slide the drive into the bay until it clicks into place.

Replace any drives or readers that you removed.

Check all connectors to ensure that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

If the drive that you installed is the primary drive, insert bootable media into your boot drive.

Enter system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 97) and update the appropriate

option (0 or 2).

Drive

Exit system setup, and reboot the computer.

Partition and logically format your drive before you proceed to the next step.

For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system.

80 Removing and Installing Parts

Primary

Page 81

Test the hard drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50).

Install your operating system on the hard drive. For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system

Floppy Drive

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

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

removing the cover.

Removing a Floppy Drive

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

NOTE: It is not necessary to disconnect the cables connected to the CD/DVD drive in the following step, as long as

the cables do not obstruct your working area once the drive is set aside.

Remove the CD/DVD drive (see "Removing a CD/DVD Drive" on page 87) and carefully set it aside.

NOTICE: Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables. Doing so may cause damage to the cables

and cable connectors.

Pull up on the drive release latch and slide the floppy drive towards the back of the computer. Then, lift up to remove the drive from the computer.

1 drive release latch 2 floppy drive

Removing and Installing Parts 81

Page 82

Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

Installing a Floppy Drive

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your

body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Remove the floppy drive and bracket from its packaging.

If you are installing a new drive:

Remove the drive-panel insert that blocks the FlexBay; gently slide a small flat-edge screwdriver between the drive-panel insert and the rear of the drive panel until the drive-panel insert pops out of place.

Remove the four shoulder screws from the drive-panel insert.

If you are replacing an existing drive:

Remove the existing drive.

Remove the four shoulder screws from the existing drive.

Insert the four shoulder screws into the sides of the new floppy drive and tighten them.

82 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 83

Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive.

Locate the correct guidance-slot for the drive (slot 2) and align the shoulder screws with the screw guides.

1 floppy drive 2 slot verification number

Slide the drive into the bay until it clicks into place.

Connect the data cable to the connector labeled "FLOPPY" on the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 63).

Replace the CD/DVD drive.

Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Media Card Reader

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

Removing and Installing Parts 83

Page 84

Removing a Media Card Reader

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your

body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

NOTE: It is not necessary to disconnect the cables connecting the CD/DVD drive in the following step, as long as

the cables do not obstruct your working area once the drive is set aside.

Remove the CD/DVD drive (see "Removing a CD/DVD Drive" on page 87) and carefully set it aside.

NOTICE: Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables. Doing so may cause damage to the cables

and the cable connectors.

Disconnect the Media Card Reader USB cable from the USB connector (USB1) on the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 63) and route the cable through the clip on the shroud.

Pull up on the drive release latch and slide the Media Card Reader towards the back of the computer. Then, lift up to remove it from the computer.

1 Media Card Reader 2 drive release latch

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

84 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 85

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Installing a Media Card Reader

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your

body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Remove the Media Card Reader and bracket from its packaging.

If you are installing a new Media Card Reader:

Remove the four shoulder screws from the drive-panel insert.

If you are replacing an existing Media Card Reader:

Remove the existing Media Card Reader.

Remove the four shoulder screws from the existing Media Card Reader.

Insert four shoulder screws into the sides of the Media Card Reader and tighten them.

Removing and Installing Parts 85

Page 86

Locate the correct guidance-slot for the Media Card Reader (slot 2) and align the shoulder screws with the screw guides.

1 Media Card Reader 2 slot verification number

Slide the Media Card Reader into the bay until it clicks into place.

Connect the power and data cables to the back of the Media Card Reader.

Connect the data cable to the USB connector on the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 63).

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

CD/DVD Drive

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

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

removing the cover.

86 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 87

Removing a CD/DVD Drive

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

NOTICE: Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables. Doing so may cause damage to the cables

and the cable connectors.

Pull up on the drive release latch and slide the drive towards the back of the computer. Then, lift up to remove the drive from the computer.

1 drive release latch 2 CD/DVD drive

Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the drive.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Installing a CD/DVD Drive

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.

Removing and Installing Parts 87

Page 88

If you are installing a new drive:

Press the two snaps on the top of the drive-panel insert and rotate the insert toward the front of the computer. Remove it from the computer.

Remove the three shoulder screws from the drive-panel insert.

If you are replacing an existing drive:

Remove the existing drive.

Remove the three shoulder screws from the existing drive.

Insert the three shoulder screws into the sides of the new drive and tighten them.

Connect the power and data cables to the drive.

Align the shoulder screws with the screw guides, and slide the drive into the bay until it clicks into place.

Check all cable connections and fold cables out of the way to avoid blocking airflow between the fan and cooling vents.

88 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 89

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Battery

Replacing the Battery

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your

body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

A coin-cell battery maintains computer configuration, date, and time information. The battery can last several years. If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, replace the battery.

CAUTION: A new battery can explode 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.

To replace the battery:

Record all of the settings in system setup (see "System Setup Options" on page 98) so that you can restore the correct settings in step 8.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59.

Locate the battery socket (see "System Board Components" on page 63).

NOTICE: If you pry the battery out of its socket with a blunt object, be careful not to touch the system board with

the object. Ensure that the object is inserted between the battery and the socket before you attempt to pry out the battery. Otherwise, you may damage the system board by prying off the socket or by breaking circuit traces on the system board.

Remove the battery by carefully prying it out of its socket with your fingers or with a blunt, nonconducting object, such as a plastic screwdriver.

Removing and Installing Parts 89

Page 90

Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up, and snap the battery into place.

1 battery 2 battery socket

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 97) and restore the settings you recorded in step 1.

Properly dispose of the old battery. See the

Product Information Guide

for battery disposal information.

Replacing the Computer Cover

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

Product Information Guide.

Ensure that all cables are connected, and fold cables out of the way.

Gently pull the power cables toward you so that they do not get caught underneath the drives.

Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer.

90 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 91

To replace the cover:

Align the bottom of the cover with the hinge tabs located along the bottom edge of the computer.

Using the hinge tabs as leverage, rotate the cover downward to close it.

Press the cover down until it snaps into place.

Ensure that the cover is seated correctly before moving the computer.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the

computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Removing and Installing Parts 91

Page 92

92 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 93

Appendix

Specifications

Microprocessor

™

Sempron

™

64 X2 Dual-Core processor

Microprocessor type AMD Athlon

AMD Athlon 64

AMD

Internal L2 cache up to 1 MB per core

up to 256 KB for Sempron

Memory

Type 533-MHz, 667-MHz, 800-MHz z (when available) DDR2 SDRAM

Memory connectors 4

Memory modules supported 256-MB, 512-MB, or 1-GB non-ECC

Minimum memory 256 MB

Maximum memory 4 GB

Computer Information

Chipset nVidia GeForce 6150LE

DMA channels eight

Interrupt levels 24

BIOS chip (NVRAM) 4 Mb

NIC integrated network interface

Capable of 10/100 communication

Video

Type nVidia integrated video (DirectX 9.0c Shader Model 3.0 Graphics

Processing Unit) or PCI Express x16 graphics card

Appendix 93

Page 94

Audio

Type Sigma Tel 9227 CODEC (7.1 Channel Audio)

Controllers

Drives two SATA controllers supporting two devices

Expansion Bus

Bus type PCI 2.3

PCI Express 1.0A SATA 1.0A and 2.0 USB 2.0

Bus speed PCI: 133 MB/s

PCI Express x16: 40 Gbps bidirectional speed PCI Express x1: 2.5 Gbps SATA: 1.5 Gbps and 3.0 Gbps USB: 480 Mbps high speed, 12Mbps full speed, 1.2 Mbps low speed

Cards

PCI

connectors

card size

connector size

connector data width (maximum)

PCI Express:

connectors

power

connector size

connector data width (maximum)

one

low profile

124 pins

32 bits

one x1 and one x16

10 W (x1) and 25 W (x16) maximum

36 pins (x1) and 164 pins (x16)

one PCI Express lane (x1) and 16 PCI Express lanes (x16)

Drives

Externally accessible one 3.5-inch drive

one 5.25-inch drive bays

Available devices SATA hard drive, CD drive, DVD drive, DVD +/- RW drive, and

CD-RW/DVD Combo drive

Internally accessible one bay for a 1-inch-high hard drive

94 Appendix

Page 95

Connectors

External connectors:

Video

Network adapter

USB

Audio

System board connectors:

SATA

Floppy drive

Fan

PCI 2.3

PCIe-x1

PCIe-x16

Internal USB

Speaker

Memory modules

Power 12V

Power

Battery

15-hole VGA connector

RJ45 connector

two front-panel and four back-panel USB 2.0–compliant connectors

six connectors for line-in and line-out; two front-panel connectors for headphones and microphone

two 7-pin connectors

34-pin connector

5-pin connector

one 124-pin connectors

36-pin connector

164-pin connector

10-pin connector (supports two USB ports)

5-pin connector

four 240-pin connector

4-pin connector

24-pin connector

2-pin socket

Controls and Lights

Power control push button

Power light green light — Blinking green indicates a sleep mode; solid green

indicates a power-on state.

amber light — Blinking amber indicates a problem with an installed device; solid amber indicates an internal power problem (see "Power Problems" on page 40).

Hard-drive access light green

Link light solid green light indicates network connection

Link integrity light (on integrated network adapter)

green light for 10-Mb operation; orange light for 100-Mb operation

Appendix 95

Page 96

Controls and Lights

Activity light (on integrated network adapter)

Diagnostic lights Four lights on the front panel. See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 48.

Standby power light AUX_PWR on the system board

Power

DC power supply:

Wattage

Heat dissipation

yellow blinking light

280 W

955.39 BTU/hr maximum

NOTE: Heat dissipation is calculated based upon the power supply

rating.

Vo lt ag e

Backup battery 3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell

Physical

Height

Width

Depth

We ig ht

manual selection power supplies — 90 to 135 V at 50/60 Hz; 180 to 265 V at 50/60 Hz

11.4 cm (4.5 inches)

39.9 cm (15.7 inches)

35.3 cm (13.9 inches)

10.4 kg (23 lb)

Environmental

Temperature:

Operating

Storage

Relative humidity 20% to 80% (noncondensing)

Maximum vibration:

Operating

Storage

Maximum shock:

Operating

Storage

10° to 35°C (50° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

0.25 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 0.5 octave/min

0.5 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1 octave/min

bottom half-sine pulse with a change in velocity of 50.8 cm/sec (20 inches/sec)

27-G faired square wave with a velocity change of 508 cm/sec (200 inches/sec)

96 Appendix

Page 97

Environmental (continued)

Altitude:

Operating

Storage

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

System Setup

Overview

Use system setup as follows:

• To change the system configuration information after you add, change, or remove any hardware in your computer

• To set or change a user-selectable option such as the user password

• To read the current amount of memory or set the type of hard drive installed

Before you use system setup, it is recommended that you write down the system setup screen information for future reference.

NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings for this program. Certain changes

can make your computer work incorrectly.

Entering System Setup

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the blue DELL™ logo is displayed, you must watch for the F2 prompt to appear.

Once this F2 prompt appears, press <F2> immediately.

NOTE: The F2 prompt indicates that the keyboard has initialized. This prompt can appear very quickly, so you

must watch for it to display, and then press <F2>. If you press <F2> before you are prompted, this keystroke will be lost.

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 (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on

page 59) and try again.

System Setup Screen

The system setup screen displays current or changeable configuration information for your computer. Information on the screen is divided into four areas: the menu at the top, the main window, the Item Help field on the right, and key functions listed on the bottom.

Appendix 97

Page 98

Options List — This field appears on the left side of the system setup window. The field is a scrollable list containing features that define the

Option Field — This field contains information about each option. In this field you can view your current settings and make changes to your settings.

Use the right- and left-arrow keys to highlight an option. Press <Enter> to make that selection active.

configuration of your computer, including installed hardware, power conservation, and security features.

Scroll up and down the list by using the up and down arrow keys. As an option is highlighted, the Option Field displays more information about that option and the option’s current and

Key Functions — This field appears below the Option Field and lists keys and their functions within the active

system setup field.

available settings.

System Setup Options

NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not appear, or may

not appear exactly as listed.

System

System Info Lists the computer name, BIOS Version, Service Tag, Express Service Code, (if

applicable), and the Asset Tag. None of these fields can be modified.

Processor Info Identifies the CPU type, processor clock speed, bus speed, L2 cache size, and processor

ID. States whether the processor supports 64-bit technology.

Memory Info Lists the type, size, speed, and channel mode (dual or single) of installed memory. PCI Info Identifies any installed PCI or PCI Express cards. Date/Time Displays current date and time settings. Boot Sequence The computer attempts to boot from the sequence of devices specified in this list. HDD Boot Sequence Lists the order that the BIOS will search the available hard drives in the system.

98 Appendix

Page 99

Drives

Diskette Drive

(

Internal

Drive 0: (SATA-0)

(On default)

Drive 1: (SATA-1)

(On default)

SMART Reporting

(Off default)

Onboard Devices

Integrated NIC

(On default)

Integrated Audio

(On default)

USB Controller

(On default)

Rear Dual USB0 (On default)

Rear Dual USB1 (On default)

Front USB (On default)

default)

This option enables or disables the floppy drive. The options are Off, USB, Internal, and Read Only.

NOTE: If USB is selected, ensure that USB Controller setup option under Onboard

Devices is set to On.

Identifies and enables and disables the drives attached to the SATA connectors on the system board and lists the capacities for the hard drives.

This setting determines whether integrated drive errors are reported or not during system startup.

Enables or disables the integrated NIC controller.

w/RPL. When the On w/ PXE or the On w/RPL setting is active, if a boot routine is not available from the network server, the computer attempts to boot from the next device in the boot sequence list.

Enables or disables the onboard audio controller.

Enables or disables the internal USB controller. No Boot enables the controller but disables the ability to boot from a USB device.

Settings are Off, On, On w/ PXE, or On

NOTE: Operating systems with USB support will recognize USB floppy drives regardless

of the No Boot setting.

Enables or disables the indicated group of USB ports on the back of the computer.

Enables or disables the indicated group of USB ports on the front of the computer.

Appendix 99

Page 100

Video

Primary Video (Auto default)

This setting specifies which video controller is primary when there is two video controllers availble (PCI, Onboard, Auto, and PEG). This selection only matters when if there are two video controllers present. When Auto is selected, the add-in video controller will be used.

NOTE: A PCI Express graphics card will override the integrated video controller.

Video Memory Size (64MB default)

Performance

HDD Acoustic Mode (Bypass default)

This setting configures the amount of system memory that is reserved for the integrated video controller. The settings are Auto, 16MB, 32MB, 64MB, 128MB, or Off.

•

Bypass

— Your computer does not test or change the current acoustics mode setting.

•

Quiet

— The hard drive operates at its most quiet setting.

•

Suggested

•

Performance —

— The hard drive operates at the level suggested by the drive manufacturer.

The hard drive operates at its maximum speed.

NOTE: Switching to performance mode may cause the drive to be noisier, but its

performance is not affected. Changing the acoustics setting does not alter your hard-drive image.

Security

Unlock Setup When an administrator password is being used, allows the user access to modify

system setup settings. Enter the administrator password at the prompt to unlock system setup. If the correct password is not entered here, the user can view but not modify system setup fields.

Admin Password (Not Set default)

System Password (Not Set default)

Password Changes (Unlocked default)

Non-Execute Func (On default)

Displays the current status of your system setup program’s password security feature and allows you to verify and assign a new admin password.

Displays the current status of the system's password security feature and allows a new system password to be assigned and verified.

Determines the interaction between the System password and the Admin password.

Locked prevents a user without a valid Admin password from being able to modify the System password. Unlocked allows a user with a valid System password to modify the

system password.

Enables or disables Execute Disable memory protection technology.

100 Appendix