Dell Inspiron 1100 User Manual

Dell™ Inspiron™ 1100

Owner’s Manual

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

use of your computer.

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

data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage,

personal injury, or death.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Tell Me How help
file. To access the help file, see page 80.

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this
document to Microsoft

®

Windows® operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2002–2003 Dell Computer Corporation. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Computer
Corporation is strictly forbidden.

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, AccessDirect, Inspiron, AccessDirect, Dell
Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, Dell TrueMobile, and Dellnet are trademarks of Dell
Computer Corporation; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation;
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; EMC is a registered
trademark of EMC Corporation; Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used
by Dell Computer Corporation 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 Computer Corporation disclaims an y proprietary interest
in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Model PP07L

July 2003 P/N 6W956 Rev. A02

Contents

CAUTION: Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

General

Power

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Air Travel

EMC Instructions

California Residents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

When Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Ergonomic Computing Habits

When Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

Battery Disposal

1 A Tour of Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

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

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

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

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

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

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

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

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

2 Setting Up Your Computer

Dell™ QuickSet Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

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

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

Contents 3

Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Modem and Internet Connection Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

E-Mail Problems

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

3 Using a Battery

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . 36

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

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

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

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

4 Contents

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Checking the Battery Charge

Power Meter

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

Low-Battery Warning

Charging the Battery

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

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

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

Removing a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Installing a Battery

Storing a Battery

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

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

Battery and Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

If the battery is not charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

If battery life is short

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

4 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Dell™ AccessDirect™ Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Reprogramming the Button

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

Numeric Keypad

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

Keyboard Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

System Functions

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Display Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Power Management

Speaker Functions

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

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

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Customizing the Touch Pad

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

External Keyboard Problems

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

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

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

Unexpected Characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

5 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

CD or DVD Problems

If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, or DVD

If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive tray

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

If the CD-RW drive stops writing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

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

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

. . . . . 56

. . . . . . 56

Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

If you have a problem with integrated speakers

. . . . . . . . . 57

Contents 5

If you have a problem with external speakers . . . . . . . . . . 57

Connecting a Television to the Computer

S-Video Connection

Composite Video Connection

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

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

Enabling the Display Settings for a Television

6 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Network Setup Wizard

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Connecting to Wireless Local Area Networks

Determining Your Network Type

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

Connecting to a Network in Windows XP

. . . . . . . . . . . 67

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

Finalizing Your Network Connection (Security Settings) . . . . 71

7 Solving Problems

Finding Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

. . . . . . . . . 63

6 Contents

Accessing Help

Error Messages

Video and Display Problems

If the display is blank

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

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

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

If the display is difficult to read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

If only part of the display is readable

Scanner Problems

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

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

Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive

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

If you have problems with a hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

PC Card Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

General Program Problems

A program crashes

A program stops responding

Error messages appear

Resolving Other Technical Problems

If Your Computer Gets Wet

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

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

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

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

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

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

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Drivers

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

What Is a Driver?

Identifying Drivers

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

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

Reinstalling Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows XP

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

. . . . . . . . . 91

. . . . . . . 92

Using System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Creating a Restore Point

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State . . . . . . 93

Undoing the Last System Restore

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

®

Reinstalling Microsoft

Before You Reinstall

Reinstalling Windows XP

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

8 Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Add or Replace Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Modem

Hard Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

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

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

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

Contents 7

CD or DVD Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Keyboard

9 Appendix

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Using the System Setup Program

Overview

Viewing the System Setup Screens

System Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Commonly Used Options

System and Battery Performance Optimization

System Performance Overview

Optimizing Power Consumption and Battery Charge Time

Variable Speed Fan

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals

Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals

Contacting Dell

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

. . . . . . . . . 123

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. . . 124

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

. . . . . . . . . . . . 125

. . . . . 125

. . . . . . 126

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

8 Contents

Regulatory Notices

NOM Information (Mexico Only)

Limited Warranties and Return Policy

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Limited Warranty for the Dell-Branded Hardware Products (U.S. Only)
147

"Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (U.S. Only)

. . . . . . . . . . 150

Limited Warranty Terms for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (Canada

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

Only)

"Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (Canada Only)

Dell Software and Peripherals (Canada Only)

. . . . . . . . 153

. . . . . . . . . . 154

1-Year End-User Manufacturer Guarantee (Latin America and the
Caribbean Only)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155

Intel® Warranty Statement for Pentium® and Celeron® Processors
Only
(U.S. and Canada Only)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Contents 9

10 Contents

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

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

General

• Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service
technician. Always follow installation instructions closely.

• If you use an extension power cable with your AC adapter, ensure that the total ampere
rating of the products plugged in to the extension power cable does not exceed the
ampere rating of the extension cable.

• Do not push objects into air vents or openings of your computer. Doing so can cause fire
or electric shock by shorting out interior components.

• Do not block air vents or openings of your computer. Doing so can damage the computer
or cause fire.

• Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a carrying case or a
closed briefcase, while the computer is turned on or connected to the AC adapter.
Restricting airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

• Keep your computer away from radiators and heat sources. Also, do not block cooling
vents. Avoid placing loose papers underneath your computer; do not place your computer
in a closed-in wall unit or on a bed, sofa, or rug.

• Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a desk top or on the floor, when you use
it to run the computer or to charge the battery. Do not cover the AC adapter with papers
or other items that will reduce cooling; also, do not use the AC adapter inside a carrying
case.

• The AC adapter may become hot during normal operation of your computer. Use care
when handling the adapter during or immediately after operation.

• Do not allow your portable computer to operate with the base resting directly on exposed
skin for extended periods of time. The surface temperature of the base will rise during
normal operation (particularly when AC power is present). Allowing sustained contact
with exposed skin can cause discomfort or, eventually, a burn.

• Do not use your computer in a wet environment, for example, near a bath tub, sink, or
swimming pool or in a wet basement

• If your computer includes an integrated or optional (PC Card) modem, disconnect the
modem cable if an electrical storm is approaching to avoid the remote risk of electric
shock from lightning via the telephone line.

CAUTION: Safety Instructions 11

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

• To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not connect or disconnect any
cables or perform maintenance or reconfiguration of this product during an electrical
storm. Do not use your computer during an electrical storm unless all cables have been
disconnected and the computer is operating on battery power.

• If your computer includes a modem, the cable used with the modem should be
manufactured with a minimum wire size of 26 American wire gauge (AWG) and an
FCC-compliant RJ-11 modular plug.

• Before you open the memory module cover or Mini PCI card/modem cover on the bottom

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of your computer, disconnect all cables from their electrical outlets and disconnect the
telephone cable.

• If your computer has a modem RJ-11 connector and a network RJ-45 connector, insert the
telephone cable into the RJ-11 connector, not the RJ-45 connector.

•PC Cards may become very warm during normal operation. Use care when removing PC
Cards after their continuous operation.

• Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol
cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.

Power

• Use only the Dell-provided AC adapter approved for use with this computer. Use of
another AC adapter may cause a fire or explosion.

(continued)

• Before you connect the computer to an electrical outlet, check the AC adapter voltage
rating to ensure that the required voltage and frequency match the available power
source.

• To remove the computer from all power sources, turn the computer off, remove the
battery pack, and disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet.

• To help prevent electric shock, plug the AC adapter and device power cables into properly
grounded power sources. These power cables may be equipped with 3-prong plugs to
provide an earth grounding connection. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the
grounding prong from the power cable plug. If you use a power extension cable, use the
appropriate type, 2-prong or 3-prong, to mate with the AC adapter power cable.

• Be sure that nothing rests on your AC adapter’s power cable and that the cable is not
located where it can be tripped over or stepped on.

12 CAUTION: Safety Instructions

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

• If you are using a multiple-outlet power strip, use caution when plugging the AC
adapter’s power cable into the power strip. Some power strips may allow you to insert the
plug incorrectly. Incorrect insertion of the power plug could result in permanent damage
to your computer, as well as risk of electric shock and/or fire. Ensure that the ground
prong of the power plug is inserted into the mating ground contact of the power strip.

(continued)

Battery

• Use only Dell™ battery modules that are approved for use with this computer. Use of
other types may increase the risk of fire or explosion.

• Do not carry a battery pack in your pocket, purse, or other container where metal objects
(such as car keys or paper clips) could short-circuit the battery terminals. The resulting
excessive current flow can cause extremely high temperatures and may result in damage
to the battery pack or cause fire or burns.

• The battery poses a burn hazard if you handle it improperly. Do not disassemble it.
Handle a damaged or leaking battery pack with extreme care. If the battery is damaged,
electrolyte may leak from the cells and may cause personal injury.

• Keep the battery away from children.

• Do not store or leave your computer or battery pack near a heat source such as a radiator,
fireplace, stove, electric heater, or other heat-generating appliance or otherwise expose it
to temperatures in excess of 60ºC (140ºF). When heated to excessive temperatures,
battery cells could explode or vent, posing a risk of fire.

• Do not dispose of your computer’s battery in a fire or with normal household waste.
Battery cells may explode. Discard a used battery according to the manufacturer’s
instructions or contact your local waste disposal agency for disposal instructions. Dispose
of a spent or damaged battery promptly.

CAUTION: Safety Instructions 13

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

Air Travel

• Certain Federal Aviation Administration regulations and/or airline-specific restrictions
may apply to the operation of your Dell computer while you are on board an aircraft. For
example, such regulations/restrictions may prohibit the use of any personal electronic
device (PED) that has the capacity for intentional transmission of radio frequency or
other electromagnetic signals while on an aircraft.

– In order to best comply with all such restrictions, if your Dell portable computer is

equipped with Dell TrueMobile™ or some other wireless communication device,

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EMC Instructions

Use shielded signal cables to ensure that you maintain the appropriate EMC classification for
the intended environment. For parallel printers, a cable is available from Dell. If you prefer, you
can order a cable from Dell at its worldwide website at www.dell.com.

please disable this device before you board the aircraft and follow all instructions
provided by airline personnel with regard to such device.

– Additionally, the use of any PED, such as a portable computer, may be prohibited in

aircraft during certain critical phases of flight, for example, takeoff and landing. Some
airlines may further define the critical flight phase as any time the aircraft is below
3050 m (10,000 ft). Please follow the airline’s specific instructions as to when the use
of a PED is allowed.

(continued)

Static electricity can harm electronic components inside your computer. To prevent static
damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s
electronic components, such as a memory module. You can do so by touching an unpainted
metal surface on the computer’s input/output panel.

California Residents

WARNING: Handling the cord on this product, or cords associated with accessories sold with
this product, will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth
defects or other reproductive harm.

14 CAUTION: Safety Instructions

Wash your hands after handling the cord.

When Using Your Computer

Observe the following safe-handling guidelines to prevent damage to your computer:

• When setting up the computer for work, place it on a level surface.

• When traveling, do not check the computer as baggage. You can put your computer
through an X-ray security machine, but never put your computer through a metal
detector. If you have the computer checked by hand, be sure to have a charged battery
available in case you are asked to turn on the computer.

• When traveling with the hard drive removed from the computer, wrap the drive in a
nonconducting material, such as cloth or paper. If you have the drive checked by hand, be
ready to install the drive in the computer. You can put the hard drive through an X-ray
security machine, but never put the drive through a metal detector.

• When traveling, do not place the computer in overhead storage compartments where it
could slide around. Do not drop your computer or subject it to other mechanical shocks.

• Protect your computer, battery, and hard drive from environmental hazards such as dirt,
dust, food, liquids, temperature extremes, and overexposure to sunlight.

• When you move your computer between environments with very different temperature
and/or humidity ranges, condensation may form on or within the computer. To avoid
damaging the computer, allow sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate before using
the computer.

NOTICE: When taking the computer from low-temperature conditions into a warmer environment

or from high-temperature conditions into a cooler environment, allow the computer to acclimate to
room temperature before turning on power.

• When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the
cable itself. As you pull out the connector, keep it evenly aligned to avoid bending any
connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable make sure both connectors are correctly
oriented and aligned.

• Handle components with care. Hold a component such as a memory module by its edges,
not its pins.

• When preparing to remove a memory module from the system board or disconnect a
device from the computer, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter cable, and
then wait 5 seconds before proceeding to help avoid possible damage to the system board.

When Using Your Computer 15

When Using Your Computer

• Clean the display with a soft, clean cloth and water. Apply the water to the cloth; then
stroke the cloth across the display in one direction, moving from the top of the display to
the bottom. Remove moisture from the display quickly and keep the display dry. Long­term exposure to moisture can damage the display. Do not use a commercial window
cleaner to clean your display.

• If your computer gets wet or is damaged, follow the procedures described in "If Your
Computer Gets Wet" on page 87 or "If You Drop or Damage Your Computer" on page 88.
If, after following these procedures, you confirm that your computer is not operating
properly, contact Dell (see page 126 for the appropriate contact information).

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Ergonomic Computing Habits

CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.

CAUTION: Viewing the display or external monitor screen for extended periods of

time may result in eye strain.

For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in the Tel l Me How help file when
setting up and using your computer. To access the help file, see page 80.

This portable computer is not designed for continuous operation as office equipment. For
extended use in an office, it is recommended that you connect an external keyboard.

When Working Inside Your Computer

Before removing or installing memory modules, Mini PCI cards, modems, keyboards, or CD or
DVD drives, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated.

(continued)

NOTICE: The only time you should ever access the inside of your computer is when you are

installing memory modules, a Mini PCI card, a modem, a keyboard, or a CD or DVD drive.

NOTICE: Wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting a device or removing

a memory module, Mini PCI card, modem, keyboard, or CD or DVD drive to help prevent possible
damage to the system board.

Shut down your computer and turn off any attached devices.

1

2 Disconnect your computer and devices from electrical outlets to reduce the potential for

personal injury or shock. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from
the computer.

3 Remove the main battery from the battery bay and, if necessary, the secondary battery

from the module bay.

16 When Using Your Computer

When Using Your Computer

4 Ground yourself by touching the unpainted metal surface of the I/O panel on the back of

the computer.

While you work, periodically touch the I/O panel to dissipate any static electricity that
might harm internal components.

(continued)

Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

Static electricity can harm electronic components inside your computer. To prevent static
damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s
electronic components, such as a memory module. You can do so by touching an unpainted
metal surface on the computer’s I/O panel.

As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch an I/O connector to remove
any static charge your body may have accumulated.

You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD):

• When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove
the component from the antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the
component. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, be sure to discharge static
electricity from your body.

• When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or
packaging.

• Handle all sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads
and workbench pads.

Battery Disposal

Your computer uses a lithium-ion battery and a reserve battery. For instructions about replacing
the lithium-ion battery in your computer, refer to "Removing a Battery" on page 44. The reserve
battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it.
However, should you need to replace it, the procedure must be performed by an authorized
service technician.

Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal
agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.

When Using Your Computer 17

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18 When Using Your Computer

1

SECTION 1

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Front View

display latch

Dell™ AccessDirect™
button

display

power button

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touch pad

touch pad buttons

speaker

device status lights

DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed.

ISPLAY — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" in

D

the Tel l M e Ho w help file. To access the help file, see page 80.

speaker

keyboard
status lights

keyboard

20 A Tour of Your Computer

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

9

Turns on when Caps Lock is enabled.

A

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

KEYBOARD — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft®

®

Windows

logo key . For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see

page 49.

PEAKERS — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume

S

control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see page 50.

A Tour of Your Computer 21

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DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

Turns on when you turn on the computer. Blinks or turns off in power
management mode.

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while

the light is flashing.

Blinks to indicate battery charge status.

If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the light operates as
follows:

If the computer is running on a battery, the light operates as follows:

T

mouse. See page 51 for more information.

T

a mouse. See page 51 for more information.

22 A Tour of Your Computer

– Solid green: The battery is charging.

– Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off).
– Flashing orange: The battery charge is low.
– Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low.

OUCH PAD BUTTONS — Touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a

OUCH PAD — The touch pad and touch pad buttons provide the functionality of

POWER BUTTON — Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter

or exit a power management mode. For more information, see "Power Management"
in the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see page 80.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a

Windows shutdown rather than by pressing the power button (see page 40).

If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the
computer turns off completely (which may take several seconds).

ELL™ ACCESSDIRECT™ BUTTON — Press this button to launch a frequently

D

used program, such as support and educational tools. You can reprogram the button
to launch a program of your choice. For more information, see page 48.

Left Side View

PC Card slot

audio connectors (2) CD or DVD drive

PC CARD SLOT — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter.
For more information, see "Using PC Cards" in the Tell Me How help file. To access
the help file, see page 80.

A Tour of Your Computer 23

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AUDIO CONNECTORS

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

CD OR DVD DRIVE — Accommodates a CD drive, DVD drive, CD-RW drive,
or CD-RW/DVD combo drive.

Right Side View

BATTERY/BATTERY BAY — When a battery is installed, you can use the

computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. See page 41.

24 A Tour of Your Computer

security cable slot

air vents

battery/battery bay modem connector

MODEM CONNECTOR

Connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

For information on using the modem, see the online modem
documentation supplied with your computer.

AIR VENTS — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the
vents, which prevents the computer from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to

accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low­airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is
running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or
cause a fire.

ECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft

S

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

NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the

security cable slot.

NOTE: The fan runs

constantly, and fan speed
may vary depending on
usage. Fan noise is
normal and does not
indicate a problem with
the fan or the computer.

A Tour of Your Computer 25

Back View

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NOTE: The fan runs

constantly, and fan speed
may vary depending on
usage. Fan noise is
normal and does not
indicate a problem with
the fan or the computer.

AC adapter connector

air vents

AIR VENTS — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the
vents, which prevents the computer from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to

accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low­airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is
running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or
cause a fire.

DAPTER CONNECTOR — Attach an AC adapter to the computer.

AC A

S-video TV-out connector

USB connectors (2)

video connector

network connector

26 A Tour of Your Computer

AC adapter

AC adapter connector

The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You
can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either on or off.

CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets

worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary
among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly
connecting the cable to the power strip or electrical outlet may
cause fire or equipment damage.

CAUTION: Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a

desk top or on the floor, when you use it to run the computer or to
charge the battery. Do not cover the AC adapter with papers or
other items that will reduce cooling; also, do not use the AC
adapter inside a carrying case.

NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer,

grasp the connector, not the cable itself, and pull firmly but gently to avoid
damaging the cable.

IDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

S-V

Connects your computer to a TV. For more information, see
page 58.

USB CONNECTORS

NOTE: Use only the

90-watt AC adapter that
came with your computer.

VIDEO CONNECTOR

Connects USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer.

Connects an external monitor. For more information, see
"Using the Display" in the Tell Me How help file. To access the
help file, see page 80.

A Tour of Your Computer 27

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NETWORK CONNECTOR

NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector.

To avoid damaging the computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network
connector.

Connects the computer to a network. The lights next to the
connector indicate activity for both wired and wireless
network communications.

For information on using the network adapter, see the online
network adapter documentation supplied with your
computer.

Bottom View

modem/Mini PCI
card cover

hard drive

battery/battery bay

air vent

battery latch release

memory module cover

MODEM/MINI PCI CARD COVER — Covers the compartment that contains
the modem and Mini PCI card. See page 103.

28 A Tour of Your Computer

BATTERY/BATTERY BAY — When a battery is installed, you can use the

computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. See page 41.

IR VENTS — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the

A

vents, which prevents the computer from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to

accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low­airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is
running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or
cause a fire.

ATTERY LATCH RELEASE — Releases the battery. See page 44 for

B

instructions.

EMORY MODULE COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the

M

memory module(s) and the CD or DVD drive latch release. See page 100.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

NOTE: The fan runs

constantly, and fan speed
may vary depending on
usage. Fan noise is
normal and does not
indicate a problem with
the fan or the computer.

A Tour of Your Computer 29

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30 A Tour of Your Computer

2

SECTION 2

Setting Up Your Computer

Dell™ QuickSet Features

Connecting to the Internet

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

E-Mail Problems

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Problems

Power Protection Devices

Turning Off Your Computer

Dell™ QuickSet Features

Dell QuickSet runs from the icon located in the taskbar and functions
differently when you click, double-click, or right-click the icon.

Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Click the icon to perform the following tasks:

• Adjust power management settings using the Power Management
Wizard.

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• Adjust the size of icons and toolbars.

• Select a power scheme that you set in the Power Management Wizard.

• Turn presentation mode on or off.

Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Double-click the icon to adjust power management settings using the
Power Management Wizard.

Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:

• Enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen.

• Enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.

• Turn wireless activity on or off.

•View Dell QuickSet Help.

• View the version and copyright date of the QuickSet program installed
on your computer.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the

taskbar and click Help.

32 Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

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 phone line.
Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable
modem connections.

• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through
your existing phone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the
Internet and use your phone 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 AOL or MSN connection:

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

2 Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Windows

desktop.

®

NOTE: ISPs and ISP

offerings vary by country.

3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

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

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

2 Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer.

The New Connection Wizard appears.

3 Click Connect to the Internet.

Setting Up Your Computer 33

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4 In the next window, click the appropriate option:

• If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose
from a list of Internet service providers (ISPs).

• If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but
you did not receive a setup CD, click Set up my connection
manually.

• If you have a CD, click Use the CD I got from an ISP.

5 Click Next.

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

NOTE: If you do not

know which type of
connection to select,
contact your ISP.

NOTE: If you can

connect to your Internet
service provider (ISP),
your modem is
functioning properly. If
you are sure that your
modem is working
properly and you still
experience problems,
contact your ISP.

6 Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to

the Internet?, and then click Next.

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

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "Modem and
Internet Connection Problems." 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.

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only.

Connecting the modem to a digital telephone network damages the modem.

NOTICE: Modem and network connectors look similar. Do not plug a

telephone line into the network connector.

HECK THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — Disconnect the telephone line from

C

the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone. Ensure that you
have touchtone telephone service. Try connecting the modem to a different
telephone wall jack.

Slow connection speeds can be caused by telephone noise as well as by telephone
line or network conditions. Contact your telephone company or network
administrator for more information.

34 Setting Up Your Computer

CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — If

you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax
machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone
line to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack.

HECK THE CONNECTION — Verify that the telephone line is connected to the

C

modem.

HECK THE TELEPHONE LINE — Try using a different telephone line. If you

C

are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.

RREGULAR DIAL TONE — If you have voice mail service, you might hear an

I

irregular dial tone when you have messages. Contact your telephone company for
instructions on restoring a dial tone.

URN OFF CALL WAITING (CATCH- PHONE)— See your telephone directory

T

for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking
connection properties.

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Printers and Other Hardware, click Phone and Modem Options, click the

Dialing Rules tab, and then click Edit....

3 In the Edit Location window, ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is

checked, and then select the proper code as listed in your telephone directory.

4 Click Apply and click OK.
5 Close the Phone and Modems Options window.
6 Close the Control Panel window.

ERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

V

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Printers and Other Hardware and click Phone and Modem Options.
3 Click the Modems tab.
4 Click the COM port for your modem.
5 Click Properties, 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.

E-Mail Problems

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — With the

Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a check mark
next to it, click the check mark to remove it and connect to the Internet.

Setting Up Your Computer 35

Transferring Information to a New Computer

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

•E-mails

• Toolbar settings

• Window sizes

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• Internet bookmarks

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

To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:

1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ System

To ol s , and then click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

2 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen

appears, click Next.

3 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and

click Next.

4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the

wizard from the Windows XP CD and click Next.

5 When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old

or source computer. Do not click Next at this time.

To copy data from the old computer:

1 On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System CD.

2 On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform

additional tasks.

3 Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings.

4 On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.

36 Setting Up Your Computer

5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click

Next.

6 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you

prefer.

7 On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you

want to transfer and click Next.

After the information has been copied, the Completing the
Collection Phase screen appears.

8 Click Finish.

To transfer data to the new computer:

1 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer,

click Next.

2 On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you

chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next.

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

When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished
screen appears.

3 Click Finished and restart the new 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.

• Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance.

Setting Up Your Computer 37

Printer 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.

Connecting a USB Printer

NOTE: You can connect

USB devices while the
computer is turned on.

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

2 Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that

came with your printer.

3 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer

and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.

USB connector on
computer

USB connector

USB printer
cable

on printer

Printer Problems

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS — Ensure that the printer cable

is properly connected to the computer (see page 38).

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working

T

by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

38 Setting Up Your Computer

ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON — See the documentation

supplied with the printer.

V

ERIFY THAT WINDOWS

1 Click the Start button.
2 Click Control Panel.
3 Click Printers and Other Hardware.
4 Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer model is listed, right-

click the printer icon.

5 Click Properties and click the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following

port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port).

EINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See page 89.

R

®

RECOGNIZES THE PRINTER —

Power Protection Devices

Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and
failures:

•Surge protectors

• Line conditioners

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Surge Protectors

Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help to
prevent damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during
electrical storms or following power interruptions. The level of protection is
usually commensurate with the cost of the surge protector. Some surge
protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain types of
damage. Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge
protector. A device with a higher joule rating offers more protection.
Compare joule ratings to determine the relative effectiveness of different
devices.

NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or

power interruptions caused by nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs
in your area, disconnect the telephone line from the telephone wall jack and
disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet.

Setting Up Your Computer 39

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NOTE: To ensure

maximum battery
operating time, connect
only your computer to a
UPS. Connect other
devices, such as a printer,
to a separate power strip
that provides surge
protection.

Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem protection. See the
surge protector documentation for modem connection instructions.

NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection.

Disconnect the network cable from the network wall jack during electrical
storms.

Line Conditioners

NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.

Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant
level.

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result

in data loss or file damage.

A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices
contain a battery that provides temporary power to connected devices when
AC power is interrupted. The battery charges while AC power is available.
See the UPS manufacturer documentation for information on battery
operating time and to ensure that the device is approved by Underwriters
Laboratories (UL).

Turning Off Your Computer

NOTE: As an alternative

to turning off your
computer, you can set
your computer to enter
standby or hibernate
mode. For more
information, see the

Me How

access the help file, see
page 80.

40 Setting Up Your Computer

help file. To

Tell

1

2 In the Turn off computer window, click Tur n o ff .

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a

Microsoft® Windows® operating system shutdown, as described next, rather
than by pressing the power button.

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start
button, and then click Turn Off Computer.

The computer turns off after the shutdown process finishes.

3

SECTION 3

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Charging the Battery

Removing a Battery

Installing a Battery

Storing a Battery

Battery and Power Problems

Battery Performance

NOTE: Batteries for

portable computers are
covered only during the
initial one-year period of
the limited warranty for
your computer. For more
information about the
Dell warranty for your
computer, see page 147.

NOTE: It is

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recommended that you
connect your computer to
an electrical outlet when
writing to a CD.

Use a battery to power the computer when it is not connected to an
electrical outlet. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the
battery bay.

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. Operating
time may be significantly reduced when you perform operations including,
but not limited to, the following:

• Using optical drives, especially DVD and CD-RW drives.

• Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, or USB devices.

• Using high-brightness display settings.

• Using 3D screen savers or other power-intensive programs such as 3D
games and engineering programs.

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode. See "Power
Management" in the Tell Me How help file for more information. To
access the help file, see page 80.

You can set power management options to alert you when the battery charge
is low.

CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of

fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible
battery purchased from Dell. The lithium-ion battery is designed
to work with your Dell™ computer. Do not use a battery from
other computers with your computer.

CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste.

When your battery no longer holds a charge, call your local waste
disposal or environmental agency for advice on disposing of a
lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" on page 17.

42 Using a Battery

CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or

chemical burn. Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or
expose the battery to temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the
battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries
with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause
personal injury or equipment damage.

Checking the Battery Charge

The Microsoft® Windows® power meter window and icon, the battery

charge gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the
battery charge.

Power Meter

The Windows power meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To

check the power meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar. For more

information on the Power Meter tab, see "Power Management" in the Te l l
Me How help file. To access the help file, see page 80.

If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears.

Low-Battery Warning

NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately

after a low-battery warning. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins
automatically.

A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately
90 percent depleted. For more information on low-battery alarms, see
"Power Management" in the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file,
see page 80.

Using a Battery 43

Charging the Battery

NOTE: The AC adapter

charges a completely
discharged battery in
approximately 3 hours
with the computer turned
off. Charge time is
significantly longer if the
computer is on and
running at high processor
speeds and system activity
levels. Running the

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computer at high system
activity levels for
extended periods of time
may prevent the battery
from charging.

NOTE: You can leave the

battery in the computer as
long as you like. The
battery internal circuitry
prevents the battery from
overcharging.

When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery
while the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the computer
checks the battery charge and temperature. If necessary, the AC adapter
then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge.

If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot
environment, the battery may not charge when you connect the computer
to an electrical outlet.

The battery is too hot to start charging if the light flashes alternately
green and orange. Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and
allow the computer and the battery to cool to room temperature. Then
connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue charging the
battery.

For more information on resolving problems with a battery, see "Power
Management" in the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see
page 80.

Removing a Battery

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, disconnect the

modem from the telephone wall jack.

44 Using a Battery

Ensure that the computer is turned off or connected to an electrical

1

outlet.

2 Slide and hold the battery latch.

3 Remove the battery.

battery

Installing a Battery

Slide the battery into the battery bay until the latch clicks.

battery latch

Storing a Battery

Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period
of time. A battery discharges during prolonged storage. After a long storage
period, recharge the battery fully before you use it.

Battery and Power Problems

HECK THE POWER LIGHT — When the power light is lit or blinking, the

C

computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby
mode—press the power button to exit standby mode. If the light is off, press the
power button to turn on the computer or exit a power management mode. If the
computer does not turn on, press and hold the power button for several seconds.

HARGE THE BATTERY — The battery charge may be depleted.

C

1 Reinstall the battery.
2 Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3 Turn on the computer.

NOTE: See the

How

help file for
information on standby
mode. To access the help
file, see page 80.

Using a Battery 45

Tell Me

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CHECK THE BATTERY STATUS LIGHT — If the battery status light flashes

orange or is a steady orange, the battery charge is low or depleted. Connect the
computer to an electrical outlet.

If the battery status light flashes green and orange, the battery is too hot to charge.
Turn off the computer (see page 40), disconnect the computer from the electrical
outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperature.

If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective.
Contact Dell (see page 126).

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working

T

by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

HECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the

C

AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on.

ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET —

C

Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that
the computer turns on.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent

E

lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances.

DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — See the Te ll M e H ow help file or search

A

for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center. To a c c es s he l p , see page 80.

ESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES — If the computer power light turns on but

R

the display remains blank, reseat the memory modules (see page 100).

If the battery is not charging

SHUT DOWN THE COMPUTER — Charge time is significantly longer if the

computer is on and running at high processor speeds and system activity levels.
Running the computer at high system activity levels for extended periods of time
may prevent the battery from charging.

46 Using a Battery

If battery life is short

SEE "BATTERY PERFORMANCE" ON PAGE 42 — Operating time may be

significantly reduced under certain conditions.

PTIMIZE PROCESSOR PERFORMANCE AND POWER CONSUMPTION —

O

See page 123.

4

SECTION 4

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Dell™ AccessDirect™ Button

Numeric Keypad

Keyboard Shortcuts

Touc h Pa d

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

External Keyboard Problems

Unexpected Characters

Dell™ AccessDirect™ Button

Press this button to launch a frequently used program, such as support and
educational tools or your default Internet browser.

Reprogramming the Button

To change the reprogrammable button settings or to find information on
using the button:

1 Click the Start button→ Control Panel→ Printers and Other

Hardware→ Keyboard icon.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

2 Click the AccessDirect tab.

3 Click the Help button and follow the instructions on the screen.

Numeric Keypad

numeric keypad

The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external
keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad
numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys.

• To enable the keypad, press . The light indicates that the
keypad is active.

48 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

9

• To use the numeric function when the keypad is enabled, press
and the desired key.

• To disable the keypad, press again.

Keyboard Shortcuts

System Functions

Opens the Task M an a ge r window

Enables and disables the numeric keypad

Enables and disables the scroll lock

Display Functions

Switches the video image to the next display option.
The options include the integrated display, an external
monitor, and both displays simultaneously.

NOTE: If you are playing a DVD or watching a

streaming video, is disabled.

NOTE: If the computer is connected to a television,
you must enable the television through the Windows
display settings (see page 66).

Increases brightness on the integrated display only
(not on an external monitor).

Decreases brightness on the integrated display only
(not on an external monitor).

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 49

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Power Management

Speaker Functions

®

Microsoft

Windows® Logo Key Functions

Activates a power management mode. You can
reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a
different power management mode using the
Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties
window. See "Power Management" in the Te l l M e H o w
help file for more information. To access the help file,
see page 80.

Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and
external speakers, if attached

Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and
external speakers, if attached

Enables and disables the integrated speakers and
external speakers, if attached

50 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Minimizes all open windows

Maximizes all windows

Runs Windows Explorer

Opens the Run dialog box

Opens the Search Results dialog box

Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if
the computer is connected to a network)

Opens the System Properties dialog box

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, click the
Start button→ Control Panel→ Printers and Other Hardware→ Keyboard.
Follow the instructions on the screen.

Touch Pad

The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow
you to move the cursor on the display. Use the touch pad and touch pad
buttons as you would use a mouse.

touch pad

touch pad buttons

• To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad.

• To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or
use your thumb to press the left touch-pad button.

• To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the
object and tap down-up-down on the touch pad. On the second down
motion, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected
object by sliding your finger over the surface.

• To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and tap
twice on the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch-pad
button twice.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 51

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Customizing the Touch Pad

You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad or
adjust its settings.

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers

and Other Hardware.

2 Click Mouse.

3 In the Mouse Properties window, click the Device Settings tab.

To disable the touch pad or mouse, highlight the device and click

Disable.

To change the touch pad or mouse settings, highlight the device, click

Settings, select the desired setting(s), and then click Apply.

4 Click OK to save the settings and close the window, and then click OK

again to exit the Mouse Properties window.

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other

Hardware.

2 Click Mouse.
3 Try adjusting the settings.

HECK THE MOUSE CABLE — Shut down the computer (see page 40).

C

Disconnect the mouse cable and check it for damage. Firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse
directly to the computer.

O VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE, CHECK THE TOUCH

T

PAD —

1 Shut down the computer (see page 40).
2 Disconnect the mouse.
3 Turn on the computer.
4 At the Windows

icon, and open it.

If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.

EINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER — See page 89.

R

desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an

52 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

External Keyboard Problems

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer (see page 40).

Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for damage. Firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard
directly to the computer.

HECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —

C

1 Shut down the computer (see page 40), wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.
2 Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink

during the boot routine.

3 From the Windows

to Accessories, and click Notepad.

4 Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the

display.

If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.

O VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD,

T

CHECK THE INTEGRATED KEYBOARD —

1 Shut down the computer (see page 40).
2 Disconnect the external keyboard.
3 Turn on the computer.
4 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to All Programs, point

to Accessories, and click Notepad.

5 Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the

display.

If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a
defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see page 126).

®

desktop, click the Start button, point to All Programs, point

NOTE: When you attach

an external keyboard, the
integrated keyboard
remains fully functional.

Unexpected Characters

DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD — Press to disable the numeric

keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light
is not lit.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 53

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

54 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

5

SECTION 5

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs

CD or DVD Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

Connecting a Television to the Computer

Using CDs and DVDs

For information about using CDs and DVDs in your computer, see the Te l l
Me How help file. To access the help file, see page 80.

CD or DVD Problems

If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, or DVD

NOTE: Because of

different worldwide file

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

types, not all DVD titles
work in all DVD drives.

High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. This noise
does not indicate a defect with the drive or the CD.

ENSURE THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start
button and click My Computer. If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with
your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes
prevent Windows from recognizing the drive. Insert a bootable disk and restart the
computer. Verify that the light is blinking, indicating normal operation.

RY ANOTHER DISC — Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the

T

original disc is defective.

NSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED TO THE SPINDLE ON THE CD DRIVE

E

TRAY

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — 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.

LEAN THE DRIVE OR DISC — See "Cleaning Your Computer" in the Tel l Me

C

How help file for instructions. To access the help file, see page 80.

If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive tray

1 Ensure that the computer is shut down and turned off (see page 40).
2 Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the

drive; push firmly until the tray is partially ejected.

3 Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

• Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.

• Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.

56 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

If the CD-RW drive stops writing

DISABLE STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A
CD-RW — Search for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center. To

access help, see page 80.

HANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE — See the help files for

C

your CD creation software.

XIT ALL OTHER OPEN PROGRAMS — Exiting all other open programs before

E

writing to the CD-RW may alleviate the problem.

Sound and Speaker Problems

If you have a problem with integrated speakers

ADJUST THE WINDOWS® VOLUME CONTROL — 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. Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to
eliminate distortion.

DJUST THE VOLUME USING KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS — Press

A

to disable (mute) or reenable the integrated speakers.

EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See page 89.

R

If you have a problem with external speakers

HECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS — See the setup diagram

C

supplied with the speakers.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working

T

by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

NSURE THAT THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the setup diagram

E

supplied with the speakers.

DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Double-click the speaker icon

A

in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and
that the sound is not muted. Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate
distortion.

EST THE SPEAKERS — Plug the speaker audio cable into the line-out

T

connector on the computer. Ensure that the headphone volume control is turned
up. Play a music CD.

UN THE SPEAKER SELF- TEST — Some speaker systems have a self-test

R

button on the subwoofer. See the speaker documentation for self-test instructions.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 57

NOTE: The volume

control in some MP3
players overrides the
Windows volume setting.
If you have been listening
to MP3 songs, make sure
that you did not turn the
player volume down
or off.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTE: Video and audio

cables for connecting your
computer to a television
are not included with your
computer. Cables may be
purchased at most
consumer electronics
stores.

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

EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See page 89.

R

Connecting a Television to the Computer

Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that enables you to
connect the computer to a television. Using a commercially available
S-video cable or composite video cable, you can connect the computer to a
television in one of two ways:

• S-video (for a television with S-video input)

• Composite video (for a television with only a composite video input;
also uses the composite TV-out adapter cable)

The audio connector on the side of the computer enables you to connect
the computer to your television or audio device, using a commercially
available audio cable.

NOTE: Diagrams for

each connection
combination appear at the
beginning of each
subsection to help you
determine which method
you should use.

58 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

When you complete the cable connection, see "Enabling the Display
Settings for a Television" on page 63 to ensure that the computer recognizes
and works properly with the television.

S-Video Connection

S-video cabl

Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:

e

audio cable

1 Turn off the computer and the television and/or audio device you want

to connect.

2 Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video connector on the

computer.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 59

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

3 Plug the other end of the S-video cable into your television.

4 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone

connector on your computer.

5 Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into

the audio input connectors on your television or other audio device.

6 Turn on the television, turn on any audio device you connected, and

then turn on the computer.

7 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" on page 63 to

ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the
television.

60 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Composite Video Connection

TV

To connect the computer to a television that has a composite video input
only, use a composite TV-out adapter cable:

composite

1 Turn off the computer and the television and/or audio device you want

-out adapter cable

composite video cable

audio cable

to connect.

2 Connect the composite TV-out adapter cable to the S-video TV-out

connector on the computer.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 61

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

S-video TV

-out connector

S-video connector

composite video
connector

composite TV-out
adapter cable

3 Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video

connector on the composite TV-out adapter cable.

4 Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite

video connector on the television.

62 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

5 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone

connector on the computer.

6 Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into

the audio input connectors on your television or other audio device.

Enabling the Display Settings for a Television

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 Click Appearance and Themes and click Display.

3 Click the Settings tab and click Advanced.

4 Click the Intel Graphics tab and click Graphics Properties.

5 Click the TV icon and click Apply.

6 Click Ye s to keep the new settings and click OK.

NOTE: Ensure that you

properly connect the
television before you
enable the display
settings.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 63

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

64 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

6

SECTION 6

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Network Setup Wizard

Network Problems

Connecting to Wireless Local Area Networks

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a
network adapter installed and a network cable connected to it.

To connect a network cable:

1 Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on your

computer.

NOTE: Insert the cable

until it clicks into place,
and then gently pull it to

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

ensure that it is secure.

NOTE: Do not use a

network cable with a
telephone wall jack.

2 Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection

device, such as a network wall jack.

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.

1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→

Communications, and then click Network Setup Wizard.

2 On the welcome screen, click Next.

3 Click Checklist for creating a network.

66 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Complete the checklist and required preparations, and return to the

4

Network Setup Wizard.

5 Follow the instructions on the screen.

Network Problems

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable

connector is firmly connected to the connector on the computer and the network
wall jack.

HECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR — Green

C

indicates that the network connection is active. If the status light is not green, try
replacing the network cable. Amber indicates that the network adapter driver is
loaded and the adapter is detecting activity.

RESTART THE COMPUTER — Try to log on to the network again.

ONTACT YOUR NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR — Verify that your network

C

settings are correct and that the network is functioning.

Connecting to Wireless Local Area Networks

NOTE: Selecting the

connection method This
computer connects
directly to the Internet

enables the integrated
firewall provided with
Windows XP.

Before you can connect to a wireless Local Area Network (LAN), you must
have specific information about your network. Be sure to get the name of
your wireless network along with any special security settings from your
network administrator. These settings are unique to your network and
cannot be provided by Dell.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 67

NOTE: These networking

instructions do not apply
to Bluetooth™ or cellular
products.

Determining Your Network Type

NOTE: Most wireless

networks are the
infrastructure type.
Consult your network
administrator if you are
unsure of the type of
network to which you are
connecting.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Wireless networks fall into two categories — infrastructure networks and
ad-hoc networks. An infrastructure network uses routers or access points to
connect several computers together. An ad-hoc network does not use routers
or access points and consists of computers that broadcast to one another.

Ad-Hoc NetworkInfrastructure Network

Connecting to a Network in Windows XP

Your wireless network card requires proper software and drivers in order to
connect to a network. This software is pre-installed from the factory. If the
software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions listed in the User's

Guide for your wireless card. The User’s Guide is located on your Drivers,
Utilities, and Applications CD (that came with your computer) in the

"User’s Guides-Network User’s Guides" category. The User’s Guide is also
available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

1 Click the Start button, Control Panel, and then click Switch to

Classic View.

2 Double-click Network Connections.

3 Click Wireless Network Connection.

The Wireless Network Connection icon is highlighted.

68 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

4 Under Network Tasks in the left-hand pane, click Change settings of

this connection.

The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears.

5 Select the Wireless Networks tab.

NOTE: The names of

wireless networks that
your computer can see are
listed in the Available
Networks area.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 69

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

6 Click Add.

The Wireless network properties window appears.

7 Enter the name of your network in the Network name (SSID) field.

8 If you are connecting to an ad-hoc network, which does not use any

routers or access points, click the check box labeled This is a
computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network; wireless access points are
not used.

70 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

9 Click OK.

Your new network name appears in the Preferred networks area.

Finalizing Your Network Connection (Security Settings)

To finalize your connection, you must change your wireless security settings
to match the wireless network to which you are trying to connect. Choose
one of the following connection options based on the security settings for
your network:

• Connecting to a Network with no Security-Related Requirements
(Common for home and small office networks)

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 71

• Connecting to a Network with Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)
Security Requirements

• Connecting to a Network with Wired Equivalent Protocol (WEP)
Security Requirements

NOTE: Network security

settings are only provided
by your network
administrator and are
unique to your network.
Dell cannot provide this
information.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTE: Your computer

may take up to a minute
to attach to the network.

NOTE: WPA protocols

require that you know the
Network Authentication
and Data Encryption
settings for your wireless
network. In addition, your
WPA-protected network
may require special
settings such as a network
key, user name, password,
and domain name. Be
sure to get all necessary
WPA settings from your
network administrator
before continuing.

Connecting to a Network With No Security-Related Requirements

1 In the Preferred networks area, click the name of your wireless

network.

2 Click Properties.

3 From the Network Authentication drop-down menu, select Open.

Earlier versions of the Dell wireless software may not contain the
drop-down menus. If you are using an earlier version, deselect the
Data encryption (WEP enabled) check box and go to
step 5.

4 From the Data encryption drop-down menu, select Disabled.

5 Click OK.

Your network setup is complete.

Connecting to a Network With Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) Security
Requirements

The following instructions are basic steps for connecting to a WPA network.
If your network requires a user name, password, or domain-settings, consult
the setup instructions in the User’s Guide for your wireless network card.

In the Preferred networks section, click the name of your wireless

1

network.

2 Click Properties.

3 From the Network Authentication drop-down menu, select your

network authentication type (as provided by the network
administrator).

If you do not see the drop-down menus, you must update your wireless
software before continuing. Download and install the latest version of
your wireless driver software from the Dell Support website at
support.dell.com.

72 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

4 From the Data encryption drop-down menu, select your data

encryption type (as provided by the network administrator).

5 If your wireless network requires a key, enter it in the Network key

field.

6 Click OK.

Your network setup is complete.

Connecting to a Network With Wired Equivalent Protocol (WEP) Security
Requirements

1 In the Preferred networks section, click the name of your wireless

network.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 73

NOTE: Your computer

may take up to a minute
to attach to the network.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

2 Click Properties.

3 From the Network Authentication drop-down menu, select Open.

Earlier versions of Dell wireless software may not contain the
drop-down menus. If you are using an earlier version, select the check
box labeled Data encryption (WEP enabled) and go to step 5.

4 From the Data encryption drop-down menu, select WEP.

5 If the wireless network does not require a network key (for example,

password), go to step 8.

6 Deselect the check box labeled The key is provided for me

automatically.

74 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

7 Enter the WEP network key, provided by your network administrator,

in the Network key field.

8 Enter this key again in the Confirm network key field.

9 Click OK.

Your network setup is complete.

NOTE: Your computer

may take up to a minute
to attach to the network.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 75

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

76 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

7

SECTION 7

Solving Problems

Finding Solutions

Accessing Help

Error Messages

Video and Display Problems

Scanner Problems

Drive Problems

PC Card Problems

General Program Problems

Resolving Other Technical Problems

If Your Computer Gets Wet

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

Drivers

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Using System Restore

Reinstalling Microsoft

®

Windows® XP

Finding Solutions

NOTE: If you have a

problem with an external
device, see the device
documentation or contact
the manufacturer.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Sometimes it’s difficult to figure out where to go for answers. Use this chart
to quickly find the answers to your questions.

See page 45.

Press the power button to
exit standby mode. See the

Tell Me How

more information on
standby mode.

Get technical assistance from
Dell. See page 126.

®

See page 80.

help file for

78 Solving Problems

See page 81.

See page 57.

See page 38

See page 34.

See page 83.

See page 52.

See page 53.

See page 53.

See page 84–85.

See page 67.

See page 80.

See page 86.

See page 86.

See page 34.

See page 35.

Solving Problems 79

Accessing Help

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

TO ACCESS THE

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Click User and system guides and click User’s guides.
3 Click Tell M e Ho w.

TO ACCESS HELP IN WINDOWS XP —

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and then click the arrow

icon.

3 Click the topic that describes your problem.
4 Follow the instructions shown on the screen.

T

ELL ME HOW

HELP FILE —

Error Messages

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

THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION

DRIVE — The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk, or

the disk is too full. Try copying the file to a different disk or use a larger capacity
disk.

80 Solving Problems

A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING

CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in

filenames.

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to a
nonbootable floppy disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.

NON-SYSTEM DISK OR DISK ERROR — A floppy disk is in the floppy drive.
Remove the floppy disk and restart the computer.

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND

TRY AGAIN — You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open

the program that you want to use.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell (see page 126).

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

trying to open is missing an essential file. Remove and then reinstall the program.

1 Click the Start button.
2 Click Control Panel.
3 Click Add or Remove Programs.
4 Select the program you want to remove.
5 Click Remove or Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen.
6 See the program documentation for installation instructions.

X :\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY — Insert a disk

into the drive and try again.

Video and Display Problems

If the display is blank

CHECK THE LIGHT — When the light is blinking, the computer

has power.

• If the light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the
power button to exit standby mode.

• If the light is off, press the power button.

• If the light is on, your power management settings may have caused the
display to turn off. Try pressing any key or move the cursor to exit standby
mode.

CHECK THE BATTERY — If you are using a battery to power your computer,
the battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet
using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.

NOTE: If you are using a

program that requires a
higher resolution than
your computer supports,
it is recommended that
you attach an external
monitor to your computer.

Solving Problems 81

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

CHECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If
the AC adapter has a light, ensure that it is on.

CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET —

Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify
that the computer turns on. To access the help file, see page 80.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — Search for the keyword standby in
the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the help file, see page 80.

SWITCH THE VIDEO IMAGE — If your computer is attached to an external

monitor, press to switch the video image to the display.

NOTE: If you are playing a DVD or watching a streaming video, is

disabled.
NOTE: If the computer is connected to a television, you must enable the

television through the Windows display settings (see page 66).

If the display is difficult to read

ADJUST THE BRIGHTNESS — See the Tell Me How help file for instructions

on adjusting the brightness. To access the help file, see page 80.

MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR —

If your external speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is
at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.

82 Solving Problems

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent

lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances.

ROTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION —

Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Appearance and Themes.
3 Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.
4 Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.

SEE "ERROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see page 80.

If only part of the display is readable

CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —

1 Turn off your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.
2 Turn on the computer and the monitor, and adjust the monitor brightness and

contrast controls.

If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be
defective. Contact Dell (see page 126).

Scanner Problems

CHECK THE POWER CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the scanner

power cable is firmly connected to a working electrical power source and that the
scanner is turned on.

CHECK THE SCANNER CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the scanner
cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the scanner.

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

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

Solving Problems 83

Drive Problems

NOTE: For information

on saving files to a floppy
disk, see the
help file. To access the
help file, see page 80.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Tell Me How

If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive

ENSURE THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start

button and click My Computer. If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with
your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes
prevent Windows from recognizing the drive. Insert a bootable disk and restart
the computer. Verify that the light is blinking, indicating normal operation.

ENSURE THAT THE DISK IS NOT WRITE-PROTECTED — You cannot save
data to a write-protected disk. See the following figure.

write-protected

not write­protected

back of floppy disk

TRY ANOTHER FLOPPY DISK — Insert another disk to eliminate the
possibility that the original disk is defective.

84 Solving Problems

RECONNECT THE DRIVE —

1 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the

computer.

2 Disconnect and reconnect the drive
3 Turn on the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE — See "Cleaning Your Computer" in the Te l l M e H o w

help file for instructions. To access the help file, see page 80.

If you have problems with a hard drive

ALLOW THE COMPUTER TO COOL BEFORE TURNING IT ON — A hot

hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the
computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.

CHECK THE DRIVE FOR ERRORS —

1 Click the Start button and click My Computer.
2 Right-click the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and

then click Properties.

3 Click the Tools tab.
4 Under Error-checking, click Check Now.
5 Click Start.

PC Card Problems

CHECK THE PC CARD — Ensure that the PC Card is properly inserted into

the connector.

ENSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS®— Double­click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the
card is listed.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED PC CARD —
Contact Dell (see page 126).

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A PC CARD NOT PROVIDED BY

ELL — Contact the PC Card manufacturer.

D

Solving Problems 85

General Program Problems

NOTE: Software usually

includes installation
instructions in its
documentation or on a
floppy disk or CD.

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A program crashes

SEE THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — Many software manufacturers

maintain websites with information that may help you solve the problem. Ensure
that you properly installed and configured the program. Reinstall the program if
necessary.

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

1 Simultaneously press .

2 Click the Applications tab, and then select the program that is no longer

responding.

3 Click End Task.

Error messages appear

REVIEW "ERROR MESSAGES" ON PAGE 80 — Look up the message and

take the appropriate action. See the software documentation.

86 Solving Problems

Resolving Other Technical Problems

GO TO THE DELL SUPPORT WEBSITE — Go to support.dell.com for help

with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions. See "Dell
Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 125 for a description of the
hardware and software support provided by Dell.

E-MAIL DELL — Go to support.dell.com and then click E-Mail Dell in the
Communicate list. Send an e-mail message to Dell about your problem; you can

expect to receive an e-mail message from Dell within hours. See "Dell Technical
Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 125 for a description of the hardware and
software support provided by Dell.

CONTACT DELL — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell™ Support
website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 126). See
"Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 125 for a description of the
hardware and software support provided by Dell.

If Your Computer Gets Wet

CAUTION: Perform this procedure only after you are certain that

it is safe to do so. If the computer is connected to an electrical
outlet, it is recommended that you turn off AC power at the
circuit breaker before attempting to remove the power cables
from the electrical outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing
wet cables from a live power source.

Shut down the computer (see page 40), disconnect the AC adapter

1

from the computer, and then disconnect the AC adapter from the
electrical outlet.

2 Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from

their power sources and then from the computer.

3 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back

of the computer.

4 Remove any installed PC Cards, and put them in a safe place to dry.

5 Remove the battery.

6 Wipe off the battery and put it in a safe place to dry.

7 Wipe off the display.

8 Remove the hard drive (see page 104).

9 Remove the memory module(s) (see page 100).

10 Open the display and place the computer right-side up across two

books or similar props to let air circulate all around it. Let the
computer dry for at least 24 hours in a dry area at room temperature.

NOTICE: Do not use artificial means, such as a hair dryer or a fan, to speed

the drying process.

CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the

computer is thoroughly dry before continuing with the rest of this
procedure.

Solving Problems 87

11 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back

of the computer.

12 Replace the memory module(s), the memory module cover, and the

screw(s).

13 Replace the hard drive.

14 Replace any PC Cards you removed.

15 Replace the battery.

16 Turn on the computer and verify that it is working properly.

NOTE: See "Limited

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Warranties and Return
Policy" on page 147 for
information on your
warranty coverage.

NOTE: See "Limited

Warranties and Return
Policy" on page 147 for
information on your
warranty coverage.

If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged
components, contact Dell (see page 126).

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

1 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down

the computer (see page 40).

2 Disconnect the AC adapter from the computer and from the electrical

outlet.

3 Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from

their power sources and then from the computer.

4 Remove and reinstall the battery.

5 Turn on the computer.

If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged
components, contact Dell (see page 126).

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.

88 Solving Problems

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

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.

• You reinstall your operating system.

• You connect or install a new device.

If you experience a problem with any device, perform the steps in the
following sections to identify whether the driver is the source of your
problem and to update the driver, if necessary.

Identifying Drivers

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 In the Control Panel window, under Pick a Category, click

Performance and Maintenance.

3 In the Performance and Maintenance window, click System.

4 In the System Properties screen, click the Hardware tab.

5 Click Device Manager.

6 In the Device Manager window, 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.

Reinstalling Drivers

NOTICE: The Dell Support website and your

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.

Drivers and Utilities

CD provide

Solving Problems 89

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To use Device Driver Rollback:

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 In the Control Panel window, under Pick a Category, click

Performance and Maintenance.

3 In the Performance and Maintenance window, click System.

4 In the System Properties screen, click the Hardware tab.

5 Click Device Manager.

6 In the Device Manager window, right-click the device for which the

new driver was installed, and then click Properties.

7 Click the Drivers tab.

8 Click Roll Back Driver.

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System
Restore (see page 93) to return your operating system to the operating state
it was in before you installed the new driver.

Using the Drivers and Utilities CD

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see page 93) does
not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the Drivers and
Utilities CD.

90 Solving Problems

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

2 Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.

In most cases, the CD starts running automatically. If it does not, start
Windows Explorer, click your CD drive directory to display the CD
contents, and then double-click the autorcd.exe file. The first time
that you run the CD, it might prompt you to install setup files. Click
OK, and follow the instructions on the screen to continue.

3 From the Language drop-down menu in the toolbar, select your

preferred language for the driver or utility (if available).

A welcome screen appears.

4 Click Next. The CD automatically scans your hardware to detect

drivers and utilities used by your computer.

After the CD completes the hardware scan, you can also detect other
drivers and utilities. Under Search Criteria, select the appropriate
categories from the System Model, Operating System, and To pi c
drop-down menus.

A link or links appear(s) for the specific drivers and utilities used by
your computer.

5 Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about

the driver or utility that you want to install.

6 Click the Install button (if present) to begin installing the driver or

utility. At the welcome screen, follow the screen prompts to complete
the installation.

If no Install button is present, automatic installation is not an option.
For installation instructions, either see the appropriate instructions in
the following subsections, or click Extract, follow the extracting
instructions, and read the readme file.

If instructed to navigate to the driver files, click the CD directory on
the driver information window to display the files associated with that
driver.

Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows XP

1 After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the

previous section, click the Start button and right-click My Computer.

2 Click Properties.

3 Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.

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

(for example, Modems or Infrared devices).

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

driver.

6 Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.

7 Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click

Next.

8 Click Browse, and browse to the location to which you previously

extracted the driver files.

Solving Problems 91

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

10 Click Finish and restart your computer.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Windows XP IRQ conflicts occur if a device either is not detected during
the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured.

To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows XP:

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 Click Performance and Maintenance and click System.

3 Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.

4 In the Device Manager list, check for conflicts with the other devices.

Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (
conflicting device or a red

5 Double-click any conflict to display the Properties window.

X if the device has been disabled.

!) beside the

If an IRQ conflict exists, the Device status area in the Properties
window reports the cards or devices that share the device's IRQ.

6 Resolve conflicts by reconfiguring the devices or removing the devices

from the Device Manager.

To use the Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter:

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

2 Ty p e hardware troubleshooter in the Search field and click the

arrow to start the search.

3 Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.

4 In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware

conflict on my computer, and click Next.

92 Solving Problems

Using 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
Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To
access help, see page 80.

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

monitor your data files or recover them.

Creating a Restore Point

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

2 Click System Restore.

3 Follow the instructions on the screen.

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver
Rollback (see page 89) 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 all open files and close all open programs. Do not alter, open, or
delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ System

1

To ol s , and then click System Restore.

2 Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected and

click Next.

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

The Select a Restore Point screen provides a calendar that allows you
to see and select restore points. All calendar dates with available
restore points appear in bold.

4 Select a restore point and click Next.

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.

Solving Problems 93

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5 Click Next.

The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore
finishes collecting data and then the computer restarts.

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

Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ System

1

To ol s , and then click System Restore.

2 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.

3 Click Next.

The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts.

4 After the computer restarts, click OK.

Enabling System Restore

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:

94 Solving Problems

1 Click the Start button and click Control Pan el.

2 Click Performance and Maintenance.

3 Click System.

4 Click the System Restore tab.

5 Ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.

Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP

Before You Reinstall

If you are reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a
problem with a newly installed driver, use Windows XP Device Driver
Rollback (see page 89) to replace the device driver with the previously
installed version.

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System
Restore (see page 93) to return your operating system to the operating state
it was in before you installed the new device driver.

Reinstalling Windows XP

To reinstall Windows XP, perform the steps in the following sections in the
order in which they are listed.

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

NOTICE: The

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

NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection

software installed on your computer before you reinstall Windows XP. See the
documentation that came with the software for instructions.

Preparing to Boot From the Operating System CD

1 Insert the Operating System CD.

2 Exit any program or utility that might run after you insert the CD.

3 Shut down (see page 40) and restart the computer.

4 Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.

Operating System

CD provides options for reinstalling

If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows
desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again.

5 Use the arrow keys to select CD-ROM and press .

6 When the Press any key to boot from CD message appears on

the screen, press any key.

Solving Problems 95

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Starting Windows XP Setup

1 When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press to

select To set up Windows now.

2 Read the information in the Microsoft Windows Licensing

Agreement screen, and then press to accept the license

agreement.

3 If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to

recover your current Windows XP data, type

r to select the repair

option, and then remove the CD from the drive.

4 If you want to install a new copy of Windows XP, press to select

the fresh copy option.

5 Press to select the highlighted partition (recommended),

and then follow the instructions on the screen.

NOTE: The time required

to complete the setup
depends on the size of the
hard drive and the speed
of your computer.

The Windows XP Setup screen appears, and the operating system
begins to copy files and install the devices. The computer restarts
multiple times.

Completing the GUI Setup

NOTICE: When the computer restarts, do not press a key when the following

message appears: Press any key to boot from the CD.

When the Regional and Language Options screen appears, select the

1

settings for your location and click Next.

2 Enter your name and organization (optional) in the Personalize Your

Software screen and click Next.

3 If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition, at the What's your

computer's name

window, enter a name for your computer (or accept

the name provided) and click Next.

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional, at the Computer
Name and Administrator Password window, enter a name for your

computer (or accept the one provided) and a password, and then click
Next.

4 If you have a modem installed, enter the requested information and

click Next when the Modem Dialing Information screen appears.

5 Enter the date, time, and time zone in the Date and Time Settings

window and click Next.

96 Solving Problems

6 If your computer has a network adapter, click Ty p i c a l in the Networking

Settings screen and click Next.

If your computer does not have a network adapter, this option does not
appear.

7 If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional, you may be prompted

to provide further network information regarding your network
configuration, such as the domain name or workgroup name. If you are
unsure of your settings, accept the default selections.

Windows XP installs the operating system components, configures the
computer, and then restarts the computer.

Completing the Operating System Setup

NOTICE: When the computer restarts, do not press a key when the following

message appears: Press any key to boot from the CD.

1 When the Welcome to Microsoft screen appears, click Next.

2 When the How will this computer connect to the

Internet?

3 When the Ready to register with Microsoft? screen appears, click No,

message appears, click Skip.

not at this time and click Next.

When the Who will use this computer? screen appears, you can enter
up to five users.

4 Click Next.

5 Click Finish to complete the setup and remove the CD from the drive.

Reinstalling Drivers and Software

1 Reinstall the appropriate drivers (see page 89).

2 Reinstall your virus protection software. See the documentation that

came with the software for instructions.

3 Reinstall your other software programs. See the documentation that

came with the software for instructions.

Solving Problems 97

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98 Solving Problems

8

SECTION 8

Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Add or Replace Parts

Memory

Modem

Hard Drive

CD or DVD Drive

Keyboard

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Before You Add or Replace Parts

CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety

instructions at the front of this document (see page 11).

Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the

1

computer cover.

2 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut

down the computer (see page 40).

3 Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.

4 Wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then disconnect any attached devices.

5 Remove any installed PC Cards and the battery.

NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching

pins and contacts. Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back
of the computer. Continue to ground yourself periodically during this
procedure.

Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on
the system board. See page 115 for information on the memory supported
by your computer. Install only memory modules that are intended for your
computer.

1 Complete the instructions in the preceding section, "Before You Add

2 Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screw in the memory

100 Adding and Replacing Parts

or Replace Parts."

module cover, and lift the cover away from the computer.