Dell G884D User Manual

Dell™ XPS™ 430

Quick Reference Guide

Model DC01L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of

your computer.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data

and tells you how to avoid the problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury,

or death.

Macrovision Product Notice

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected
by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property
rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this
copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision
Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only
unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering
or disassembly is prohibited.

____________________

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2008 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of these materials in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc.
is strictly forbidden.

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, XPS, and Xcelerator are trademarks of Dell Inc.;
Intel, Core, and Intel SpeedStep are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation
in the U.S. and other countries; Microsoft, W indows, Windows V ista, and the W indows Vista start b utton
logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or
other countries; Blu-ray Disc is a trademark of the Blu-ray Disc Association; Bluetooth is a re gistered
trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license.

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 DC01L

July 2008 P/N G884D Rev. A00

Contents

1 About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Front View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Back View of the Computer

Front Panel Connectors

Back Panel Connectors

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2 Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

. . . . . . . 11

. . . . . . . . 13

. . . . . 14

3 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

4 Optimizing for Greater Performance

Understanding Intel® SpeedStep® Technology . . . . 23

. . . . 23

Contents 3

5 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Troubleshooting Tools

Beep Codes

System Messages

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use Dell Diagnostics

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

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

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

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

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

Starting Dell Diagnostics From Your
Hard Drive

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

Starting Dell Diagnostics From the
Drivers and Utilities Media

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware
Problems in the Microsoft Windows Vista
Operating System

Solving Problems

Power Problems

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

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

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

Memory Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

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

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

®

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

. . . . . . . . . . 37

6 Reinstalling Your Operating System . . . . 39

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

What Is a Driver?

Identifying Drivers

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Using the Drivers and Utilities media

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . 40

. . . . . . . 41

4 Contents

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

Windows System Restore . . . . 43

Using Dell Factory Image Restore

Using the Operating System Media

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

. . . . . . . . . 44

. . . . . . . . 45

7 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

8 Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Technical Support and Customer Service

Online Services

AutoTech Service

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

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

Automated Order-Status Service

. . . . . 50

. . . . . . . . . 51

Problems With Your Order

Product Information

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Before You Call

Contacting Dell

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

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

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

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

. . . . . 52

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Contents 5

6 Contents

About Your Computer

NOTE: For more information about the ports and connectors on your computer, see

"Specifications" on page 15.

Front View of the Computer

1

8

7

6

5

4

2

3

1 cover release latch 2 optical drive tray eject button (2)

3 vents 4 power button

5 front panel connectors 6 3.5-inch flexbays (2)

7 5.25-inch drive bays (2) 8 hard-drive activity light

About Your Computer 7

Back View of the Computer

1
2

3

4

1 power connector 2 voltage selector switch

3 back panel connectors 4 card slots

8 About Your Computer

Front Panel Connectors

12 43

1 microphone connector 2 headphone connector

3 USB 2.0 connectors (2) 4 IEEE 1394 connector

Back Panel Connectors

1 2 3

1 IEEE 1394 connector 2 eSATA connector

3 S/PDIF (RCA) connector 4 USB 2.0 connectors (3)

5 link integrity light 6 network adapter connector

7 network activity light 8 surround sound connector

9 line-in connector 10 line-out/headphone connector

11 S/PDIF (optical) connector 12 center/subwoofer LFE connector

13 side surround sound connector 14 USB 2.0 connectors (2)

4 5 6 7 8 9

11 13 1214

About Your Computer 9

10

10 About Your Computer

Setting Up Your Computer

Safety Instructions

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

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

information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices
information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

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

NOTICE: The operating temperature specifications indicated in this manual

reflects the maximum ambient operating temperature. The room ambient
temperature needs to be a consideration when installing your computer in an
enclosure. For example, if the ambient room temperature is at 25°C (77°F),
depending on your computer’s specifications, you only have 5° to 10°C (9° to 18°F)
temperature margin before you reach your computer’s maximum operating
temperature. For details about your computer’s specifications, see "Specifications"
on page 15.

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

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

Setting Up Your Computer 11

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

12 Setting Up Your Computer

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

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

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

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

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

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

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

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

• Wireless connections that provide Internet access using WiFi, WiMax, or
custom wireless technology.

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

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

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

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

1

2

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

3

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

Setting Up Your Computer 13

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

NOTE: If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in

the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service
status, or try connecting again later.

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

the Internet wizard can help you get one.

1

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

2

Click the Windows Vista start button ™, and click

3

Under

The

4

Click either

Network and Internet,

Connect to the Internet

Broadband (PPPoE)

click

Connect to the Internet

window appears.

or

Dial-up

, depending on how you want

Control Panel

.

to connect:

• Choose

Broadband

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

modem, or Bluetooth wireless technology connection.

• Chose

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

or contact your ISP.

5

Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information

Dial-up

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

provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

Transferring Information to a New Computer

You can use your operating system "wizards" to help you transfer files and
other data from one computer to another—for example, from an old
computer to a new computer.

1

Click the Windows Vista start button , and then click

and settings

2

In the

3

Click

→ Start Windows Easy Transfer

User Account Control

Start a new transfer

dialog box, click

or

Continue a transfer in progress

.

Continue

Follow the instructions provided on the screen by the Windows Easy Transfer
wizard.

14 Setting Up Your Computer

Transfer files

.

.

Specifications

NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the

configuration of your computer, click Start→ Help and Support and select the
option to view information about your computer.

Processor

Processor type Intel

Level 2 (L2) cache Intel Core2 Duo - 2 MB, 4 MB, or 6 MB

Memory

Type dual-channel 1066 and 1333 -MHz DDR3 (non-ECC

Memory connectors four

Memory capacities 1 GB or 2 GB

Minimum memory 2 GB

Maximum memory 8 GB (for a 64-bit operating system)

®

Core™2 Duo

Intel Core2 Extreme (dual-core and quad-core
processor)

Intel Core2 Quad (quad-core processor)

Intel Core2 Extreme - 4 MB or 8 MB

Intel Core2 Quad - 6 MB, 8 MB, or 12 MB

memory only)

4 GB (for a 32-bit operating system)

Computer Information

Chipset Intel X48 Express Chipset/ ICH9R

DMA channels five

Interrupt levels 24

BIOS chip (EEPROM) 8 Mb

System clock 1066/1333 MHz (depending on the processor)

Specifications 15

Expansion Bus

Bus type PCI Express x1, x8, and x16

PCI 32-bit (PCI specification 2.3)

PCI

connectors

connector size

connector data width
(maximum)

Bus speed

PCI Express

connector

connector size

connector data width
(maximum)

Bus throughput

PCI Express

connector

connector size

connector data width
(maximum)

Bus throughput

PCI Express

Connector

Connector size

Connector data width
(maximum)

Bus throughput

two

124 pins

32-bit, version 2.3

33 MHz

two x1

36 pins

1 PCI Express lane

1 GB/s

one x16

164 pins

16 PCI Express lanes

32 GB/s

one x8 (electrically configured for an x4 card)

98 pins

8 PCI Express lanes

4 GB/s

16 Specifications

Drives

Externally accessible: two 3.5-inch flexbays

two 5.25-inch drive bays

Internally accessible two 3.5 HDD bays

Available devices Serial ATA (SATA) hard drive, memory devices, SATA

Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) writer, SATA BD/DVD combo
drive, SATA DVD+/-RW drive, SATA DVD drive
(2nd drive only), Media Card Reader, and Media
Xcelerator™(optional)

Connectors

External connectors:

Network adapter

Integrated network interface capable of 10/100/1000
Mbps communication.

RJ-45 connector — To attach your computer to a
network or broadband device, connect one end of a
network cable to either a network port or your network or
broadband device. Connect the other end of the network
cable to the network adapter connector on the back panel
of your computer. A click indicates that the network
cable has been securely attached.

NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network

connector.

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

Specifications 17

Connectors (continued)

Audio

HDA 7.1 channel

six connectors for 7.1 support

rear L/R surround connector — Use the black surround
connector to attach multichannel-capable speakers.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on
the card.

line-in connector — Use the blue line-in connector to
attach a record/playback device such as a cassette player,
CD player, or VCR.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on
the card.

line-out/headphone 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.

S/PDIF (optical) connector — Use the S/PDIF optical
connector to transmit digital audio without going
through an analog audio conversion process.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on
the card.

center/subwoofer LFE connector — 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.

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.

18 Specifications

Connectors (continued)

Audio (

continued

USB

IEEE 1394 (Firewire)

eSATA

System board connectors:

Serial ATA

FlexBay

USB1

USB2

Internal S/PDIF

Fan

PCI

PCI Express x1

PCI Express x16

PCI Express x4/x8

)

side surround sound connector — Use the gray side
surround sound connector to attach multichannel­capable 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.

S/PDIF (RCA) connector — Connects to external digital
stereo speakers.

two front-panel and five back-panel USB 2.0-compliant
connectors

Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect
occasionally, such as flash memory keys, cameras, or
bootable USB devices. It is recommended that you use the
back USB connectors for devices that typically remain
connected, such as printers and keyboards.

one front-panel and one back-panel 6-pin connector.

Use the IEEE 1394 connector for high-speed data devices
such as digital video cameras and external storage
devices.

Use this connector to connect to external SATA storage
devices.

five 7-pin connectors

two 2-port USB headers

1 port USB header

1 port USB header

5-pin header

two 5-pin connectors

two 124-pin connectors

two 36-pin connectors

164-pin connector

98-pin connector

Specifications 19

Controls and Lights

Front of computer:

Power button

Power light

Hard-drive activity light

Rear of computer:

Link integrity light (on the
integrated network adapter)

Network activity light (on
the integrated network
adapter)

Standby power light AUX_PWR_LED on the system board

push button

blue light — Blinking blue in sleep state; solid blue
for power-on state

amber light — The blinking amber indicates a
problem with the system board. A solid amber light
when the system does not boot indicates that the
system board cannot start initialization. This could be
a system board or a power supply problem (see "Power
Problems" on page 35).

blue light — A blinking blue light indicates hard-drive
activity.

green light — A good connection exists between
a 10-Mbps network and the computer.

orange light

a 100-Mbps network and the computer.

yellow light

1-GB (1000-Mbps) network and the computer.

off (no light)

physical connection to the network.

yellow blinking light when there is activity on the
network; if there is no network activity, the light will
be off

— A good connection exists between

— A good connection exists between a

— The computer is not detecting a

20 Specifications

Power

DC power supply:

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or

injury, do not overload an electrical outlet, power strip,
or convenience receptacle. The total ampere rating of
all products plugged into an electrical outlet, power
strip, or other receptacle should not exceed 80 percent
of the branch circuit rating.

Wattage

Voltage (see the safety
instructions that shipped
with your computer)

Coin cell battery 3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell

Physical

Height 45.03 cm (17.08 in)

Width 187 cm (7.04 in)

Depth 450 cm (17.7 in)

Weight 12.7 kg (28.0 lb)

Environmental

Temperature range:

Operating

Storage

Relative humidity
(maximum):

Operating

Storage

375/425 W

115 V to 230 V

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

10% to 90% (noncondensing)

5% to 95% (noncondensing)

Specifications 21

Environmental (continued)

Maximum vibration (using a
random-vibration spectrum
that simulates user
environment):

Operating

Storage

Maximum shock (measured
with hard drive in head­parked position and a 2-ms
half-sine pulse):

Operating

Storage

Altitude (maximum):

Operating

Storage

Airborne contaminant level G2 or lower as defined by ISA-S71.04-1985

0.9 GRMS

1.3 GRMS

122 G

163 G

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

22 Specifications

Optimizing for Greater Performance

Understanding Intel® SpeedStep® Technology

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

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

®

automatically sets Intel Speedstep technologies in the

Optimizing for Greater Performance 23

24 Optimizing for Greater Performance

Troubleshooting

Safety Instructions

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

CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that

shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see
the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Troubleshooting Tools

Follow these tips when troubleshooting 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(s).

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

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

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

Beep Codes

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

Troubleshooting 25

If your computer beeps during start-up:

1

Write down the beep code.

2

Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 31).

Code
(repetitive
short beeps)

1 BIOS checksum

2 No memory modules

3 Possible system

Description Suggested Remedy

failure. Possible
system board failure.

are detected

board failure

Contact Dell. For more information, see
"Contacting Dell" on page 54.

1

If you have two or more memory modules
installed, remove the modules, reinstall one
module (see the
Support website at
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.

2

If available, install good memory of the same
type into your computer (see the

Manual

on the Dell Support website at

support.dell.com

3

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

information, see "Contacting Dell" on
page 54.

Contact Dell. For more information, see
"Contacting Dell" on page 54.

Service Manual

support.dell.com

).

on the Dell

), and

Service

For more

26 Troubleshooting

Code

Description Suggested Remedy
(repetitive
short beeps)

4 RAM Read/Write

failure

5 Real time clock

failure. Possible

battery failure or

system board failure.

6 Video BIOS Test

Failure

7 CPU cache test

failure

1

Ensure that no special memory
module/memory connector placement
requirements exist (see the
the Dell Support website at

2

Verify that the memory modules that you are

Service Manual

support.dell.com

installing are compatible with your computer
(see the
website at

3

If the problem persists, contact Dell

Service Manual

support.dell.com

on the Dell Support

).

(see

"Contacting Dell" on page 54).

1

Replace the battery (see the
the Dell Support website at

2

If the problem persists, contact Dell

"Contacting Dell" on page 54)

Service Manual

support.dell.com

(see

.

Contact Dell. For more information, see
"Contacting Dell" on page 54.

Contact Dell. For more information, see
"Contacting Dell" on page 54.

on

).

on

).

Troubleshooting 27

System Messages

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

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

Message Possible Cause Corrective Action

8042 Gate-A20
error

Address Line
Short!

C: Drive Error
C: Drive Failure

Cache Memory Bad,
Do Not Enable
Cache

CH-2 Timer Error

The keyboard
controller failed its test.

An error in the address
decoding circuitry in
the memory has
occurred.

The hard drive is not
working or is not
configured correctly.

The cache memory is
not operating.

An error is occurring on
the timer on the system
board.

If you receive this message
after you make changes in
the system setup program,
enter the system setup
program and restore the
original value(s).

Reseat the memory
modules (

Manual

website at

support.dell.com

Ensure that the hard drive
is installed correctly in the
computer and defined
correctly in the system
setup program (

Service Manual

Support website at

support.dell.com

See "Contacting Dell" on
page 54 for instructions on
obtaining technical
assistance.

See "Contacting Dell" on
page 54 for instructions on
obtaining technical
assistance.

see the

on the Dell Support

).

see the

on the Dell

).

Service

28 Troubleshooting

Message Possible Cause Corrective Action

CMOS Battery
State Low

CMOS Checksum
Failure

CMOS System
Options Not Set

CMOS Display Type

The system
configuration
information in the
system setup program
is incorrect or the
battery charge may be
low.

Enter the system setup
program (

Manual

website at

support.dell.com

the system configuration,
and then restart the
computer.

see the

on the Dell Support

Mismatch
CMOS Memory Size

Mismatch
CMOS Time and

Date Not Set
Diskette Boot

Failure

DMA Error
DMA 1 Error

Drive A or B is present
but has failed the BIOS
POST.

Error in the DMA
controller on the
system board.

Ensure that the drive is
installed correctly in the
computer and defined
correctly in the system
setup program (

Service Manual

Support website at

support.dell.com

the interface cable at both
ends.

The keyboard or system
board may need to be
replaced.

on the Dell

DMA 2 Error
HDD Controller

Failure

The BIOS cannot
communicate with the
hard drive controller.

Ensure that the hard drive
is installed correctly in the
computer and defined
correctly in the system
setup program (

Service Manual

Support website at

support.dell.com

the interface cable at both
ends.

on the Dell

Service

), verify

see the

). Check

see the

). Check

Troubleshooting 29

Message Possible Cause Corrective Action

INTR1 Error
INTR2 Error

Invalid Boot
Diskette

Keyboard Error

KB/Interface
Error

No ROM Basic

An interrupt channel
on the system board
failed to POST.

The operating system
cannot be located on
drive A or drive C.

The BIOS has detected
a stuck key.

An error occurred with
the keyboard
connector.

The operating system
cannot be located on
drive A or drive C.

The keyboard or system
board may need to be
replaced.

Enter the system setup
program (

Manual

website at

support.dell.com

confirm that drive A or
drive C is properly
identified.

Ensure that nothing is
resting on the keyboard; if a
key appears to be stuck,
carefully pry it up. If the
problem persists, you may
need to replace the
keyboard.

Ensure that nothing is
resting on the keyboard; if a
key appears to be stuck,
carefully pry it up. If the
problem persists, you may
need to replace the
keyboard.

Enter the system setup
program (

Manual

website at

support.dell.com

confirm that drive A or
drive C is properly
identified.

see the

on the Dell Support

see the

on the Dell Support

Service

) and

Service

) and

30 Troubleshooting

Dell Diagnostics

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

safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

When to Use Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in
"Solving Problems" on page 35 and run Dell Diagnostics before you contact
Dell for technical assistance.

NOTE: Dell Diagnostics work only on Dell computers.

It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.

Start Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities
media.

Starting Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

1

Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is
known to be working properly.

2

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

3

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

Diagnostics

from the boot menu and press <Enter>.

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

wait until you see the Microsoft
computer and try again.

NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has

been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media (see
"Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media" on page 32).

4

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

®

Windows® desktop, then shut down your

partition on your hard drive.

NOTE: The Quickboot feature changes the boot sequence for the current

boot only. Upon restart, the computer boots according to the boot sequence
specified in system setup.

Troubleshooting 31

5

At the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

, left-click with the mouse, or press
<Tab> and then <Enter>, to select the test you want to run (see "Dell
Diagnostics Main Menu" on page 33).

NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they

appear and follow the instructions on the screen.

6 After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu.

7 Close the Main Menu window to exit Dell Diagnostics and restart the

computer.

Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media

1

Insert the

2

Shut down and restart the computer.

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

Drivers and Utilities media

.

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

to wait until you see the Microsoft
computer and try again.

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

next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the
system setup program.

3

When the boot device list appears, highlight

®

Windows® desktop, then shut down your

CD/DVD/CD-RW

<Enter>.

4

Select the

Boot from CD-ROM

option from the menu that appears and

press <Enter>.

5

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

6

Select

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

from the numbered list. If multiple

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

7

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

appears, select the test you want

to run.

NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they

appear and follow the instructions on the screen.

32 Troubleshooting

and press

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

1

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

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

your computer.

Option Function

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

2

After you have selected the

Test System

following menu appears:

NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Test from the menu below to

run a more thorough check of devices in the computer.

Option Function

Express Test

Extended Test

Custom Test

Symptom Tree

Built in Self
Test

Performs a quick test of system devices. The 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.

Performs a thorough check of system devices. The test
typically takes an hour or more.

Use to test a specific device or customize the tests to be
run.

This option allows you to select tests based on a symptom
of the problem you are having. This option lists the most
common symptoms.

Performs a thorough check on all LCD display related
functions. Based on the test results a green Passed or red
Failed message appears on screen. For items listed in red,
note down the error code and problem description and
contact Dell.

Main Menu

screen appears, click

option from the main menu, the

Troubleshooting 33

3

If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error
code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and
problem description and see "Contacting Dell" on page 54

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.

4

If you run a test from the

Custom Test or Symptom Tree

option, click the

applicable tab described in the following table for more information.

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the

problem description.

Help Describes the test and any requirements for running the test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.

NOTE: 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, if applicable, by changing the

test settings.

5

When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the

Menu

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

the

Main Menu

6

Remove the Dell

screen.

Drivers and Utilities

media.

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems in the Microsoft

®

Windows Vista

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.

34 Troubleshooting

Operating System

Main

To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:

1

Click the Windows Vista start button

2

Ty p e

hardware troubleshooter

™,

and click

Help and Support.

in the search field and press

<Enter> to start the search.

3

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

Solving Problems

Power Problems

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

safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

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 the

support.dell.com

).

Service Manual

on the Dell Support website at

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

RESPONDING —

• Ensure that the display is connected and powered on.

• If the display is connected and powered on, see "Beep Codes" on page 25.

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

Troubleshooting 35

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER — a device may be malfunctioning or
incorrectly installed.

• Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see the
Dell Support website at

• Remove and then reinstall any cards (see the
website at

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 the

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.

support.dell.com

Service Manual

support.dell.com

).

on the Dell Support website at

).

Service Manual

Service Manual

on the Dell Support

support.dell.com

on the

).

Memory Problems

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

safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

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 the

support.dell.com

• Reseat the memory modules (see the

support.dell.com

at
with the memory.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 31).

).

) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating

Service Manual

Service Manual

on the Dell Support website at

on the Dell Support website

36 Troubleshooting

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules (see the
at

support.dell.com

with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see the

on the Dell Support website at

Manual

• Your computer supports DDR3 memory. For more information about the type of
memory supported by your computer, see "Specifications" on page 15.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 31).

) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating

Service Manual

support.dell.com

on the Dell Support website

Service

).

Lockups and Software Problems

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

safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

The computer does not start up

Ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the
electrical outlet.

The computer stops responding

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

shutdown.

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

A program 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.

Troubleshooting 37

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

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —

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

1

Click

Start

→

Control Panel→ Programs→ Use an older program with this

version of Windows.

2

In the welcome screen, click

3

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Next

.

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.

Other software problems

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE

MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION —

• Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your
computer.

• Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to
run the software. See the software documentation for information.

• Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.

• Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.

• If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY

USE A VIRUS-SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE, FLOPPY DISKS, OR CDS

SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR

COMPUTER THROUGH THE START MENU

38 Troubleshooting

Reinstalling Your Operating System

Drivers

What Is a Driver?

A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or
keyboard. All devices require a driver program.

A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that
use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only
its driver recognizes.

Dell™ ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no
further installation or configuration is needed.

NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities media may contain drivers for operating systems

that are not on your computer. Ensure that you are installing software appropriate
for your operating system.

Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft®
Windows

• Upgrade your operating system.

• Reinstall your operating system.

• Connect or install a new device.

®

operating system. You may need to install drivers if you:

Reinstalling Your Operating System 39

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.

1

Click the Windows Vista start button

2

Click

Properties→ Device Manager

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

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

™,

and right-click

Computer

.

.

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

If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall
the driver or install a new driver (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on
page 40).

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and

Utilities media provide approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers

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

Using Windows Device Driver Rollback

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

Click the Windows Vista start button , and right-click

1

2

Click

Properties→ Device Manager

.

Computer

.

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

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

3

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

Properties

4

Click the

.

Drivers

tab→ Roll Back Driver

.

40 Reinstalling Your Operating System

Using the Drivers and Utilities media

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore ("Restoring Your Operating
System" on page 42) does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver
from the Drivers and Utilities media.

1

With the Windows desktop displayed, insert the

If this is the first time you are using the

Drivers and Utilities

step 2. If not, go to step 5.

2

When the

Drivers and Utilities

media installation program starts, follow

the prompts on the screen.

3

When the

Drivers and Utilities

4

When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the

5

At the

A message appears, stating that the

InstallShield Wizard Complete

media and click

Welcome Dell System Owner

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

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

Finish

screen, click

Drivers and Utilities

hardware in your computer.

Drivers and Utilities

media.

media, go to

window appears, remove the

to restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities

Next

.

media.

media is detecting

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

My Drivers—The Drivers and Utilities media has identified these

components in your system

6

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

window.

the screen.

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

Reinstalling Your Operating System 41

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

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

1

Click the Windows Vista start button , and right-click

2

Click

Properties→ Device Manager

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

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

3

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

4

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

5

Click the

software

6

Click
the driver files.

7

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

8

Click

Audio

or

Video

).

Driver

tab→

Update Driver→ Browse my computer for driver

.

Browse

and browse to the location to which you previously copied

→ OK→

Finish

Next

.

and restart your computer.

.

Computer

.

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

• System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without
affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring
your operating system and preserving data files.

• Dell Factory Image Restore returns your hard drive to the operating state it
was in when you purchased the computer. This permanently deletes all
data on the hard drive and removes any programs installed after you
received the computer. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only if System
Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

• If you received an
use it to restore your operating system. However, using the

System

media also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the media

if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

42 Reinstalling Your Operating System

Operating System

media with your computer, you can

Operating

only

Using Microsoft Windows System Restore

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

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

monitor your data files or recover them.

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

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

Starting System Restore

1

Click

Start

.

2

In the Start Search box, type

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

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

3

Click

Next

and follow the remaining prompts on the screen.

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

System Restore

and press <Enter>.

Undoing the Last System Restore

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

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

1

Click

Start

.

2

In the Start Search box, type

3

Click

Undo my last restoration

System Restore

and click

Reinstalling Your Operating System 43

Next

and press <Enter>.

.

Using Dell Factory Image Restore

NOTICE: Using Dell Factory Image Restore permanently deletes all data on the

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

NOTE: Dell Factory Image Restore may not be available in certain countries or on

certain computers.

Use Dell Factory Image Restore only as the last method to restore your
operating system. This option 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—including data files—are permanently deleted
from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail
messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data
before using Factory Image Restore.

Dell Factory Image Restore

1

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

2

Select

Repair Your Computer

The

System Recovery Options

3

Select a keyboard layout and click

4

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

OK

.

5

Click

Dell Factory Image Restore

Vista Advanced Boot Options

.

window appears.

Next

.

administrator

in the User name field, then

.

window.

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

Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore.

The

Dell Factory Image Restore

6

Click

Next.

The

Confirm Data Deletion

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

welcome screen appears.

screen appears.

44 Reinstalling Your Operating System

7

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

Next

.

The restore process begins and may take five or more minutes to complete.
A message appears when the operating system and factory-installed
applications have been restored to factory condition.

8

Click

Finish

to reboot the system.

Using the Operating System Media

Before you Begin

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows operating system to correct a
problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows Device Driver
Rollback. See "Using Windows Device Driver Rollback" on page 40. If Device
Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to
return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you
installed the new device driver. See "Using Microsoft Windows System
Restore" on page 43.

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

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

To reinstall Windows , you need the following items:

•Dell™

•Dell

Operating System

Drivers and Utilities

media

media

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

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

Reinstalling Your Operating System 45

Reinstalling Windows Vista

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

1

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

2

Insert the

3

Click

4

Restart the computer.

Operating System

Exit

if the

Install Windows

media.

message appears.

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

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

to wait until you see the Microsoft
computer and try again.

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

next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the
system setup program.

5

When the boot device list appears, highlight

®

Windows® desktop; then, shut down your

CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive

and press <Enter>.

6

Press any key to

7

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.

Boot from CD-ROM

.

46 Reinstalling Your Operating System

Finding Information

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

computer. Some features or media may not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

Document/Media/Label Contents

Service Tag/Express Service Code

The Service Tag/Express Service Code is
located on your computer.

Drivers and Utilities Media

The Drivers and Utilities media is a CD
or DVD that may have shipped with your
computer.

Operating System Media

The Operating System media is a CD or
DVD that may have shipped with your
computer.

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

support.dell.com

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

• A diagnostic program for your computer

• Drivers for your computer

or contact support.

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates

can be found at support.dell.com.

• Desktop System Software (DSS)

• Readme files

NOTE: Readme files may be included on

your media to provide last-minute updates
about technical changes to your computer
or advanced technical-reference material
for technicians or experienced users.

Reinstall your operating system

Finding Information 47

Document/Media/Label Contents

Dell™ Product Information Guide

The Dell Product Information Guide is a
hardcopy document that may have
shipped with your computer. For
additional regulatory information, see the
Regulatory Compliance Homepage on

www.dell.com at the following location:
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Service Manual

The Service Manual for your computer
can be found at support.dell.com.

Dell Technology Guide

The Dell Technology Guide is available at

support.dell.com.

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

• How to remove and replace parts

• How to configure system settings

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

• About your operating system

• Using and maintaining devices

• Understanding technologies such as
RAID, Internet, Bluetooth
technology, e-mail, networking, and
more.

®

wireless

Microsoft® Windows® License Label

Your Microsoft Windows License is
located on your computer.

48 Finding Information

• Provides your operating system product
key.

Getting Help

Obtaining Assistance

CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer cover, first disconnect the

computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets.

If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the
following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem:

1

See "Troubleshooting" on page 25 for information and procedures that
pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing.

2

See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 31 for procedures on how to run Dell™
Diagnostics.

3

Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 53.

4

Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support
(

support.dell.com

procedures. See "Online Services" on page 50 for a more extensive list of
Dell Support online.

5

If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see "Contacting
Dell" on page 54

NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone near or at the computer so that the

support staff can assist you with any necessary procedures.

) for help with installation and troubleshooting

NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.

When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express
Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you
do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder,
double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.

For instructions on using the Dell Support, see "Technical Support and
Customer Service" on page 50.

Getting Help 49

NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations

outside the continental U.S. Call your local Dell representative for information on
availability.

Technical Support and Customer Service

Dell's support service is available to answer your questions about Dell™
hardware. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast,
accurate answers.

To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You Call" on page 52, and then
see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com.

Online Services

You can learn about Dell products and services on the following websites:

www.dell.com

www.dell.com/ap

www.dell.com/jp

www.euro.dell.com

www.dell.com/la

www.dell.ca

(Asian/Pacific countries only)

(Japan only)

(Europe only)

(Latin American and Caribbean countries only)

(Canada only)

You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail
addresses:

• Dell Support websites

support.dell.com

support.jp.dell.com

support.euro.dell.com

(Japan only)

(Europe only)

• Dell Support e-mail addresses

[e-mail]

[e-mail]

[e-mail] (Latin America and Caribbean countries only)

[e-mail]

(Asian/Pacific countries only)

50 Getting Help

• Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses

[e-mail]

[e-mail] (Canada only)

• Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)

ftp.dell.com

(Asian/Pacific countries only)

Log in as user:

anonymous

, and use your e-mail address as your password.

AutoTech Service

Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to
the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable
and desktop computers.

When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the
subjects that correspond to your questions. For the telephone number to call
for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 54

Automated Order-Status Service

To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go
to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A
recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on
your order. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting
Dell" on page 54

Problems With Your Order

If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or
incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or
packing slip handy when you call. For the telephone number to call for your
region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 54

Product Information

If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if
you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For
the telephone number to call for your region or to speak to a sales specialist,
see "Contacting Dell" on page 54

Getting Help 51

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:

Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it

1

clearly and prominently on the outside of the box.

For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on
page 54

2

Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the
return.

3

Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist"
on page 53), indicating the tests that you have run and any error messages
reported by the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 31).

4

Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned
(power cables, software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if the return is for
credit.

5

Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing
materials.

You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for
insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during
shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted.

Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at
Dell’s receiving dock and returned to you.

Before You Call

NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s

automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also
be asked for your Service Tag (located on the back or bottom of your computer).

Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist"
on page 53). If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for
assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be
asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information
during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the
computer itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is available.

52 Getting Help

Diagnostics Checklist

Name:

Date:

Address:

Phone number:

Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer):

Express Service Code:

Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):

Operating system and version:

Devices:

Expansion cards:

Are you connected to a network? Yes No

Network, version, and network adapter:

Programs and versions:

See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the
system’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file.
Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell.

Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:

Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:

Getting Help 53

Contacting Dell

For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW-DELL (800-999-3355).

NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact

information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.

Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options.
Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be
available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or
customer service issues:

1

Visit

support.dell.com

2

Verify your country or region in the
menu at the bottom of the page.

3

Click

Contact Us

4

Select the appropriate service or support link based on your need.

5

Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.

.

Choose A Country/Region

on the left side of the page.

drop-down

54 Getting Help

Index

B

beep codes, 25

C

computer

beep codes, 25
crashes, 37-38
restore to previous state, 42
stops responding, 37

conflicts

software and hardware

incompatibilities, 34

contacting Dell, 54

CPU overclocking, 23

D

Dell

contacting, 54

documentation

Dell Technology Guide, 48
Service Manual, 48

drivers, 39

about, 39
Drivers and Utilities media, 47
identifying, 40
reinstalling, 40

Drivers and Utilities media, 47

dual graphics technology, 23

E

End User License Agreement

(EULA), 48

ergonomics information, 48

error messages

beep codes, 25
system, 28

Express Service Code, 47

Dell Diagnostics, 31

Dell Technology Guide, 48

Desktop System Software, 47

diagnostics

beep codes, 25
Dell, 31

F

Factory Image Restore, 44

Files and Settings Transfer

Wizard, 14

Index 55

H

O

hardware

beep codes, 25
conflicts, 34
Dell Diagnostics, 31

Hardware Troubleshooter, 34

I

Internet connection

about, 13
options, 13
setting up, 13

IRQ conflicts, 34

L

license label, 48

M

media

Drivers and Utilities, 47
operating system, 47

memory

problems, 36

messages

system, 28

Online, 50

operating system

media, 45
reinstalling, 47

Operating System media, 47

operating system product key, 48

overclocking, 23

P

performance, 23

phone numbers, 54

power

problems, 35

power light

conditions, 35

printer

connecting, 13
setting up, 13

problems

beep codes, 25
blue screen, 38
computer crashes, 37-38
computer stops responding, 37
conflicts, 34
Dell Diagnostics, 31
general, 37
memory, 36
power, 35
power light conditions, 35
program crashes, 37

56 Index

programs and Windows

compatibility, 38
restore to previous state, 42-43
software, 37-38

Program Compatibility

Wizard, 38

S

Service Manual, 48

Service Tag, 47

software

conflicts, 34
problems, 37-38

specifications

computer information, 15
connectors, 17
controls and lights, 20
drives, 17
environmental, 21
expansion bus, 16
memory, 15
physical, 21
power, 21
processor, 15
technical, 15

support

contacting Dell, 54

system messages, 28

System Restore, 42-43

T

telephone numbers, 54

Terms and Conditions, 48

transferring information to a new

computer, 14

troubleshooting, 48

conflicts, 34
Dell Diagnostics, 31
Hardware Troubleshooter, 34
restore to previous state, 42-43

W

Windows License label, 48

Windows Vista

Factory Image Restore, 44
Program Compatibility

Wizard, 3 8
reinstalling, 47
System Restore, 43

Windows XP

Device Driver Rollback, 40
Files and Settings Transfer

Wizard, 1 4
Hardware Troubleshooter, 34
reinstalling, 47
System Restore, 42-43

wizards

Files and Settings Transfer

Wizard, 1 4
Program Compatibility

Wizard, 3 8

Index 57

58 Index