DELL Inspiron 3700 Service Manual

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Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

Conventions Technical Overview Using the Computer Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft Windows 98 Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft Windows NT Technical Specifications

System Setup Program System Codes and Messages Passwords and Security Ports and Connectors Power Sources Power Conservation Removing and Replacing Parts Documentation

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, DualPoint, ExpressCharge, and Inspiron are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, MS-DOS, and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks, and Celeron is a trademark of Intel Corporation; Adobe is a trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated, which may be registered in certain jurisdictions.

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Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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 any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Initial release: 20 Sep 1999 Last revised: 22 Dec 1999

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Conventions: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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Conventions: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

Typographical Conventions

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

Throughout this guide, blocks of text may be accompanied by an icon and printed in bold type or in italic type. These blocks are notes, notices, and cautions, and they are used as follows:

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer system.

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 potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

Typographical Conventions

The following list defines (where appropriate) and illustrates typographical conventions used as visual cues for specific elements of text throughout this document:

● Interface components are window titles, button and icon names, menu names and selections, and other

options that appear on the monitor screen or display. They are presented in bold.

Example: Click OK.

● Keycaps are labels that appear on the keys on a keyboard. They are enclosed in angle brackets.

Example: <Enter>

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Conventions: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

● Key combinations are series of keys to be pressed simultaneously (unless otherwise indicated) to perform a

single function.

Example: <Ctrl><Alt><Enter>

● Commands presented in lowercase bold are for reference purposes only and are not intended to be typed

when referenced.

Example: “Use the format command to . . . .”

In contrast, commands presented in the Courier New font are part of an instruction and intended to be typed.

Example: “Type format a: to format the diskette in drive A.”

● Filenames and directory names are presented in lowercase bold.

Examples: autoexec.bat and c:\windows

● Screen text is a message or text that you are instructed to type as part of a command (referred to as a

command line). Screen text is presented in the Courier New font.

Example: The following message appears on your screen:

No boot device available

Example: “Type md c:\programs and press <Enter>.”

● Variables are placeholders for which you substitute a value. They are presented in italics.

Example: DIMM_x (where x represents the DIMM socket designation)

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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Technical Overview: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

System Features IRQ Line Assignments

Video

Memory

System Features

This section describes the major hardware and software features of your computer. Figure 1 and Figure 2 show the front and back view of the computer, respectively.

Figure 1. Front View of the Computer

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Display latch

DualPoint buttons

Air intake

Battery bay

Security cable slot

Touch pad

TV-out S-video connector

Keyboard

Audio connectors (3)

Track stick

Integrated microphone

Power button

Speaker

Keyboard status indicators

Media bay

Display

Figure 2. Back View of the Computer

Speaker

PS/2 connector

Security cable slot

USB connector

Hard-disk drive

Docking connector

PC Card slot

Device access/status indicators

Infrared port

Parallel port connector

AC adapter connector

Video connector

Serial port connector

Fan

Hardware Features

● An Intel® mobile microprocessor incorporating the latest processor technology.

● An internal, Level 1 (L1) cache consisting of 64 kilobytes (KB) of high-speed memory that resides in the

processor core. The microprocessor has either a 128-KB or 256-KB (integrated) Level 2 (L2) cache or a 512KB pipelined-burst static random-access memory (SRAM) (external) L2 cache.

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

● A minimum of 32 megabytes (MB) of synchronous dynamic random-access memory (SDRAM) system

memory, with support for a maximum of 512 MB.

● A media bay in which you can install a variety of modules, including a diskette drive, CD-ROM drive, DVD-

ROM drive (on computers running Microsoft® Windows® 98 Second Edition), Zip drive, SuperDisk LS-120 drive, second battery, or a second hard-disk drive.

NOTES: Your computer was shipped with a diskette drive in the media bay. For information on removing the diskette drive and installing a different device in the bay, see "Using the Media Bay" in Chapter 2 of the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide.

Because the Microsoft Windows NT® operating system does not support DVD technology, the DVD-ROM drive is available only on computers that use the Windows 98 Second Edition operating system.

● A 64-bit hardware-accelerated ATI Mobility-M video controller with 8 MB of video memory, accelerated

graphics port (AGP) 2X, 3D assist, motion compensation, extended desktop, OpenGL support, and a flickerfree TV-out S-video connector.

● An active-matrix extended graphics array (XGA) or super extended graphics array (SXGA) thin-film transistor

(TFT) color display.

● ESS Maestro-2E audio controller with hardware wavetable support and 3D surround sound.

● Integrated stereo speakers and microphone.

● Mini-Deutsche Industrie Norm (DIN) connectors for connecting external speakers, headphones, or an external

microphone to the computer.

● A TV-out S-video connector and composite TV-out adapter cable that allows you to connect a television to

your computer. You can obtain the latest video drivers on Dell's World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com/ filelib.

● Ultra direct memory access (DMA)/33 data transfer protocol for Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA)/

integrated drive electronics (IDE) hard-disk drive interface. Ultra DMA/33 allows data transfer rates of up to 33 MB/second.

● An integrated keyboard that includes two special keys that support the Windows operating systems.

● Dell™ DualPoint™ integrated pointing device, which provides a Personal System (PS)/2-compatible touch pad

that provides full mouse functionality, and a track stick to control the cursor on the display screen. These pointing devices are positioned for both left- and right-handed users. The track stick is positioned in the keyboard to allow you to move the cursor while keeping your fingers in a typing position. Two sets of left and right buttons, which are located above and below the touch pad, mimic mouse buttons. You can also perform many pointing functions by tapping the touch pad or the track stick. Click-and-drag buttonless functions are also supported.

● Universal Serial Bus (USB) capability, which simplifies connecting peripheral devices such as mice, printers,

and computer speakers. The USB port connector on your computer's back panel provides a single connection point for multiple USB-compliant devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, and computer speakers. Also, you can connect and disconnect USB-compliant devices while the computer is running.

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

NOTES: Microsoft Windows NT® does not support USB functions.

If you attach a USB device that was not included in your original system configuration, you may need to install a specific driver for that device to obtain its full functionality. Contact the USB device manufacturer for more information.

● A lithium-ion battery in the battery bay, with support for a second battery in the media bay. The Dell

ExpressCharge™ technology charges a single battery in approximately 1 hour (when the computer is off or in save-to-disk suspend [S2D] mode).

● An Infrared Data Association (IrDA) 1.1-compliant infrared port that permits you to transfer files without

connecting cables.

NOTE: Windows NT does not support IrDA.

● A PC Card slot with connectors for two 3.3-volt (V) or 5-V cards. Both PC Card connectors support CardBus

technology. In addition, the lower PC Card connector (slot 0) supports the use of a zoomed video (ZV) port card.

NOTE: Windows NT does not support zoomed video functions.

● One high-performance serial port connector.

● One parallel port connector that can be set to AT, PS/2, enhanced parallel port (EPP), or extended capabilities

port (ECP) mode.

● One PS/2 keyboard/mouse port connector.

● One docking connector for the optional advanced port replicator (APR).

● A security cable connector to which you can attach a commercially available security cable to prevent

unauthorized removal of the computer.

Software Features

● Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition or Windows NT operating system installed on your hard-disk drive.

● Virus-scanning software for computers that ship with Windows 98.

● A standard set of video drivers provided for supporting video resolutions greater than 640 x 480 pixels.

● Audio utilities for computers with integrated audio capabilities.

● DualPoint integrated pointing device software, which allows you to set the default for the type of cursor

pointing device you want to use, as well as sensitivity, motion, and drag-and-drop features of both the touch pad and track stick.

● Optional software DVD decoder driver on computers that use the Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition

operating system.

NOTE: Windows NT does not support the DVD decoder driver.

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

● Two power management modes—standby mode and S2D mode—that help conserve battery power.

● The System Setup program for quickly viewing and changing system configuration information.

● Software support for the optional APR.

● Dell Diagnostics for evaluating the computer's components and devices. For information on using the

diagnostics, refer to "Running the Dell Diagnostics" in Chapter 3 of the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide.

Customizing Your System Configuration

As the computer environment changes, you may want to use the System Setup program to customize the configuration of your computer. The System Setup program lets you control the hardware and software features of

the computer. It also helps you reduce power consumption when the computer is running on battery power.

Available Options and Upgrades

● APRs

● Additional batteries

● External keyboards and a numeric keypad

● External monitors

● External pointing devices

● External speakers, headphones, and microphones

● Printers

● Hard-disk drives

● Second hard-disk drive for the media bay

● DVD-ROM drive modules

● SuperDisk LS-120 drive modules

● AC adapter

● PC Cards

● 32-, 64-, 128-, 192-, and 256-MB memory modules

● Carrying case

Instructions for connecting or installing these options are included in the upgrade kit you receive from Dell.

Video

The Dell-installed video drivers work with the operating system to let you customize the video resolution and number

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

of screen colors on your display.

NOTE: The Dell-installed video drivers are designed to offer the best performance on your computer. Dell recommends that you use only these drivers with your factory-installed operating system.

Table 1 lists the combinations of resolutions and colors that the computer supports.

Table 1. Display Resolution, Colors, and Refresh Rates

Resolution

Color Depth

Computer Display Only— Available Refresh Rate

Television as Secondary Display— Available Refresh

640 x 480 (video graphics array [VGA])

256 (8-bit) 60, 75, 85 hertz (Hz) 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL

640 x 480 (VGA) 65 k (16-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 640 x 480 (VGA) 16 M (24-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 640 x 480 (VGA) 4.2 B (32-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL

800 x 600 (super VGA [SVGA]) 256 (8-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 800 x 600 (SVGA) 65 k (16-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 800 x 600 (SVGA) 16 M (24-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 800 x 600 (SVGA) 4.2 B (32-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL

1024 x 768 (XGA) 256 (8-bit) 60, 70, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1024 x 768 (XGA) 65 k (16-bit) 60, 70, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1024 x 768 (XGA) 16 M (24-bit) 60, 70, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1024 x 768 (XGA) 4.2 B (32-bit) 60, 70, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL

1280 x 1024 (SXGA)* 256 (8-bit) 60, 70, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1280 x 1024 (SXGA)* 65 k (16-bit) 60, 70, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1280 x 1024 (SXGA)* 16 M (24-bit) 60, 70, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1280 x 1024 (SXGA)* 4.2 B (32-bit) 60, 70, 75, 85 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL

1400 x 1050 (SXGA Plus)* 256 (8-bit) 60 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1400 x 1050 (SXGA Plus)* 65 k (16-bit) 60 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1400 x 1050 (SXGA Plus)* 16 M (24-bit) 60 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1400 x 1050 (SXGA Plus)* 4.2 B (32-bit) 60 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL

1600 x 1200 (UGA)* 256 (8-bit) 60 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

1600 x 1200 (UGA)* 65 k (16-bit) 60 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1600 x 1200 (UGA)* 16 M (24-bit) 60 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL 1600 x 1200 (UGA)* 4.2 B (32-bit) 60 Hz 60-Hz NTSC, 50-Hz PAL

*NOTE: Pan mode may be turned on for the 1280 x 1024 (super XGA [SXGA]), 1400 x 1050 (SXGA Plus), and 1600 x 1200 (ultra graphics array [UGA]) computer displays. In pan mode, the screen resolution is too high to be completely displayed on the computer display. For example, the taskbar that usually appears at the bottom of the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the rest of the screen, use the touch pad or track stick to pan up and down and left and right.

To display more colors, select a lower resolution. If you select a resolution and color combination that the system does not support, the system automatically selects the next supported combination.

NOTE: Color depth is based on 256 colors for 8-bit, 65,536 colors for 16-bit, 16,842,752 colors for 24-bit, and 4,294,967,296 colors for 32-bit displays.

To find the maximum color depth for various combinations of resolutions without DVD or 3D software, select the primary resolution in the first column and move across the row to the right under the corresponding second resolution.

Table 2. Display Resolution and Color Depth Without DVD and 3D Software Running (in Bits)

Secondary

640 x 480 800 x 600 1024 x 768 1280 x 1024

r i

640 x 480 (8 bit) 32 32 32 32 800 x 600 (8 bit) 32

32 32 1024 x 768 (8 bit) 32 32 32 32 1280 x 1024 (8 bit) 32 32 32 32 1600 x 1200 (8 bit) 32 32 32 32 640 x 480 (16 bit) 32 32 32 32 800 x 600 (16 bit) 32 32 32 32 1024 x 768 (16 bit) 32 32 32 32 1280 x 1024 (16 bit) 32 32 32 32 1600 x 1200 (16 bit) 32 32 24 24 640 x 480 (24 bit) 32 32 32 32 800 x 600 (24 bit) 32 32 32 32 1024 x 768 (24 bit) 32 32 32 32 1280 x 1024 (24 bit) 32 32 32 24 1600 x 1200 (24 bit) 24 24 16 8

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

640 x 480 (32 bit) 32 32 32 32 800 x 600 (32 bit) 32 32 32 32 1024 x 768 (32 bit) 32 32 32 24 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) 32 32 24 16 1600 x 1200 (32 bit) 8 8 -- --

IRQ Line Assignments

Problems can arise if two devices attempt to use the same interrupt request (IRQ) line. To avoid this type of conflict, check the documentation for the default IRQ line setting for each installed device. Then consult Table 3 to configure

the device for one of the available IRQ lines.

NOTES: Installed devices cannot share the same COM port address. The default address of your computer's serial port is COM1.

To view IRQ line assignments in the Microsoft Windows 98 operating system, click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click the System icon. Select the Device Manager tab, and then double-click Computer.

Table 3. IRQ Line Assignments

IRQ Line Reserved/Available

IRQ0 Reserved; generated by the system timer IRQ1 Reserved; generated by the keyboard controller to signal that the keyboard output buffer is full IRQ2 Reserved; generated internally by the interrupt controller to enable IRQ8 through IRQ15 IRQ3 Available for use by a PC Card unless the integrated serial port or infrared port is configured for COM2

or COM4

IRQ4 Available for use by a PC Card unless the integrated serial port or infrared port is configured for COM1

(the default) or COM3 IRQ5 Available for use by the audio controller IRQ6 Generated by the diskette drive controller to indicate that the diskette drive requires the attention of the

microprocessor IRQ7 Available for use by a PC Card or audio controller if the parallel port is disabled IRQ8 Reserved; generated by the system input/output (I/O) controller's real-time clock (RTC) IRQ9 Reserved; generated by the video controller IRQ10 Available for use by a PC Card or audio controller unless the APR is attached IRQ11 Generated by USB, PC Card, and audio controllers; available for use by a PC Card

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

IRQ12 Reserved; generated by the keyboard controller to indicate that the output buffer of the DualPoint

integrated pointing device or the external PS/2 mouse is full IRQ13 Reserved; generated by the math coprocessor IRQ14 Reserved; generated by the hard-disk drive to indicate that the drive requires the attention of the

microprocessor IRQ15 Reserved; generated by the CD-ROM drive in the media bay to indicate that the drive requires the

attention of the microprocessor

Memory

Memory Allocations

Table 4 provides a map of the conventional memory area. When the microprocessor or a program addresses a

location within the conventional memory range, it is physically addressing a location in main memory.

NOTE: To view memory allocations in Windows 98, click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click the System icon. Click the Device Manager tab, and then double-click Computer.

Table 4. Conventional Memory Map

Address Range Use

0000h-003FFh Interrupt vector table 00400h-00FFFF BIOS data area 00500h-005FFh MS-DOS® and BASIC work area 00600h-9FBFFh User memory

Table 5 provides a map of the upper memory area. Some of these addresses are dedicated to various system

devices, such as the system/video basic input/output system (BIOS). Others are available for use by expansion cards and/or an expanded memory manager (EMM).

When the microprocessor or a program addresses a location within the upper memory area, it is physically addressing a location within one of these devices.

Table 5. Upper Memory Map

Address Range Use

0009FC00-0009FFFF PS/2-mouse data area 000A0000-000BFFFF Video random-access memory (RAM) 000C0000-000CFFFF Video BIOS

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

000CC000-000CDFFF Reserved for PC Card 000F0000-000FFFFF System BIOS 00100000-03FFFFFF High memory area FD000000-FDFFFFFF Video RAM FF200000-FF2FFFFF Video RAM FFFE0000-FFFFFFFF BIOS ROM

I/O Memory Map

Table 6 provides a map of memory addresses reserved by the system for peripheral I/O devices. Use the information

in Table 6 to determine if the memory address of an external peripheral (such as a PC Card) conflicts with a memory address reserved by the computer.

Check the documentation of the external I/O device to determine its memory address. If there is a conflict with a memory address reserved by the computer, change the address of the device.

NOTE: To view I/O addresses in Windows 98, click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click the System icon. Click the Device Manager tab, and then double- click Computer.

Table 6. I/O Memory Map

Address Device

0000-001F DMA controller #1 0020-003F Interrupt controller #1 0040-005F System timers 0060-006F Keyboard controller 0070-007F RTC and nonmaskable interrupt (NMI) enable 0080-009F DMA page registers 00A0-00BF Interrupt controller #2 00C0-00DF DMA controller #2 00F0-00FF Math coprocessor 0170-0177 CD-ROM drive controller 01F0-01F7 Hard-disk drive controller 0210-0217 Audio controller 0220-022F Audio controller

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Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

0270-0277 Fast IR 0376-0376 Integrated drive electronics (IDE) controller 0378-037F LPT1 0388-038B Audio controller 038B-03BB Video graphics array (VGA) 03C0-03DF VGA 03E0-03E1 PC Card controller 03E8-03EF Fast IR 03F0-03F7 Diskette controller 03F8-03FF COM1 0530-0537 Audio controller 0778-077B

Extended Capabilities Port (ECP) registers ECE0-ECFF USB controller FFA0-FFAF

Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI)-IDE bus registers

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Using the Computer: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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Using the Computer: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

Storage Devices Dell DualPoint Integrated Pointing Device

CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Drives PC Cards

Audio Devices Display

Embedded Numeric Keypad Extended Desktop

Key Combinations

Storage Devices

Using the Media Bay

Your computer comes with a diskette drive installed in the media bay. You can also install a battery, a CD-ROM drive, a DVD-ROM drive, a SuperDisk LS-120 drive module, or second hard-disk drive in the media bay. To make the computer as light as possible, use the travel module in the media bay in place of any of the available drives.

NOTICE: When the CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, LS-120, and diskette drives are not inside the computer, they are fragile and must be handled carefully to avoid damage. Do not press down on the drives or place heavy objects on top of them. Place the drives in a travel case to keep them free of dust and liquids. Store the drives in a safe place.

If your system is running Microsoft® Windows NT® with Softex Docking Services installed or if your system is running Microsoft Windows® 98 with Softex BayManager installed, see "Installing Devices in the Media Bay With

Softex Docking Services or Softex BayManager Software

If your system does not have Softex Docking Services or Softex BayManager, see "

Installing Devices in the Media

Bay Without Softex Docking Services or Softex BayManager Software

Installing Devices in the Media Bay With Softex Docking Services or BayManager Software

Your computer may be using Windows 98 with Softex BayManager software or Windows NT with Softex Docking

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Using the Computer: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Services software. This software allows you to hot-swap devices such as diskette drives, hard-disk drives, SuperDisk LS-120 drives, CD-ROM drives, and DVD-ROM drives to and from your computer’s media bay. Hot-swapping capability allows you to remove and replace a device while the computer is on. You do not have to shut down or restart the computer for the device to be recognized.

To install a device in the media bay, perform the following steps:

1. Verify that the Diskette Reconfig option in the System Setup program is set to Any Time.

2. Save your work and close all open files and application programs.

3. If the computer is docked, undock it.

4. Double-click the Docking Services or BayManager icon in the Windows system tray on the taskbar. The

Softex BayManager window appears for Windows 98, and the Docking Services window appears for Windows NT.

5. Click Remove/Swap.

6. If the media bay contains a device, remove the device as follows: a. Close the computer display and turn the computer over.

b. Slide the media bay latch toward the Unlock icon.

Keep holding the media bay latch with one hand while pulling the device out of the bay with the other hand.

c. After you remove the device, release the media bay latch.

7. Slide the new device firmly into the media bay.

You should hear a click when the device is fully seated.

NOTE: Softex BayManager and Softex Docking Services do not report a second battery installed in the media bay on the Storage Devices tab.

8. Click OK. Then click OK again to close the Softex window.

For the latest information on these services and their use, and to view the Softex software user’s guides, see the Web site at

http://www.dell.com/us/en/bsd/topics/products_latit_softex.htm.

Installing Devices in the Media Bay Without Softex Docking Services or Softex BayManager

To install a device in the media bay, perform the following steps:

1. Verify that the Diskette Reconfig option in the System Setup program is set to Any Time.

2. Save your work and close all open files and application programs.

3. Turn your computer off.

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Using the Computer: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

4. If the computer is docked, undock it.

5. If the media bay contains a device, remove the device as follows: a. Close the computer display and turn the computer over.

b. Slide the media bay latch toward the Unlock icon.

Keep holding the media bay latch with one hand while pulling the device out of the bay with the other hand.

c. After you remove the device, release the media bay latch.

6. Slide the new device firmly into the media bay.

You should hear a click when the device is fully seated.

7. Dock the computer if necessary.

8. Turn on the computer.

Using the Diskette Drive

Your computer was shipped with a 3.5-inch diskette drive (see Figure 1) in the media bay. To use another device in the media bay, first remove the diskette drive. For detailed instructions on installing devices in the media bay, see

"Using the Media Bay" in Chapter 2 of the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide.

NOTE: If the computer is docked to the advanced port replicator (APR), turn off the computer and undock it before installing or removing a diskette drive.

The diskette drive lets you install programs and transfer data using 3.5-inch diskettes.

Figure 1. Diskette Drive Installed in Computer

To use the diskette drive, insert a 3.5-inch diskette into the drive (label side up and metal end first). Push the diskette into the drive until the eject button extends outside the drive casing.

NOTICE: Do not travel with a diskette in the diskette drive. Doing so could break the eject button and damage the drive.

To remove a diskette from the drive, press the eject button to release the diskette, and then pull the diskette out of

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the drive.

When data is being accessed from the diskette drive in the media bay, the drive access indicator blinks.

NOTE: You can use the diskette drive externally by connecting it to the parallel port connector on the back of the computer. If you are running the Microsoft Windows 98 operating system on your computer and the Diskette Reconfig option is enabled in the System Setup program, you do not have to reboot the computer when you connect the diskette drive to the parallel port connector. If you are running the Microsoft Windows NT operating system on your computer, you do need to reboot the computer after you connect the diskette drive.

Setting up a Second Hard-Disk Drive

The first time you install a second hard-disk drive in the media bay, you must format that drive. For instructions, see the documentation that came with the device.

CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Drives

Using the CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Drives

The DVD-ROM and CD-ROM drives are read-only devices that let you play most commercially available 8- or 12centimeter (cm) sound and video CDs on the computer. In addition to playing most CDs, the DVD-ROM drive can also play DVDs. Dell installed the appropriate CD-ROM drive device drivers on your hard-disk drive.

Use the DVD-ROM or CD-ROM drive in the computer’s media bay. Neither the DVD-ROM nor CD-ROM drive can be used externally. You must turn the computer off before installing the DVD-ROM or CD-ROM drive in the media bay. For detailed instructions on installing devices in the media bay, see "Using the Media Bay" in Chapter 2 of the

Reference and Troubleshooting Guide.

Figure 2. DVD-ROM or CD-ROM Drive Installed in Computer

NOTICE: Protect the DVD-ROM and CD-ROM drives when they are not in the media bay. Do not squeeze the drive or place objects on top of it; doing so could damage the drive motor. Keep the drive as clean as possible.

NOTICE: If the CD or DVD is not seated correctly, the drive can be damaged.

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To play a CD, press the eject button on the face of the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive or press <Fn><F10>. When the tray slides out, place the CD into the tray label side up. Make sure that the CD is seated correctly on the spindle by pressing down on the disc until it clicks in place. Then gently push in the tray.

To play a DVD, press the eject button on the face of the DVD-ROM drive or press <Fn><F10>. When the tray slides out, place the DVD into the tray label side up. Make sure that the DVD is seated correctly on the spindle by pressing down on the disc until it clicks in place. Then gently push in the tray.

NOTICE: Do not use the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive while the computer is in motion. Doing so could interrupt the flow of data between the CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM and the hard-disk drive or diskette drive.

When the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive is in use, the drive access indicator blinks on the computer’s front panel.

Caring for CDs and DVDs

When handling and using CDs and DVDs, follow these precautions:

● Never use a damaged or warped CD or DVD.

● Always hold the CD or DVD by its edges. Do not touch the surface of the disc.

● Use a clean, dry cloth to remove dust, smudges, or fingerprints from the surface of the CD or DVD. When

cleaning, wipe from the center of the CD or DVD to the edge.

● Never use solvents, such as benzene, record cleaners, or antistatic sprays, to clean the CD or DVD.

● Do not write on the surface of the CD or DVD.

● Store CD or DVDs in their containers, placing them in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures may damage

CDs or DVDs.

● Do not bend or drop a CD or DVD.

● Do not place objects on top of a CD or DVD.

Types of Supported Discs

Your computer's CD-ROM and DVD-ROM drives are able to play the following types of disc formats:

● CD-ROM red-book compact disc-digital audio (CD-DA)

● CD-ROM yellow-book mode-1 and mode-2 data discs

● CD-ROM Extended Architecture (CD-ROM/XA) (mode-2 form 1 and form 2; without Adaptive Differential Pulse

Code Modulation [ADPCM])

● CD-Interactive (CD-I) (mode-2 form 1 and form 2)

● CD-I Ready

● CD-Bridge

● Photo CD, CD-recordable (CD-R) (single and multisession)

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● Video CD

● CD-rewritable (CD-RW) (the 24x CD-ROM and DVD-ROM drives support reading CD-RW discs—this format is

supported as read-only; neither the CD-ROM nor the DVD-ROM drive can write to this type of disc)

● DVD-5 (DVD-ROM drive supports DVD-5 format)

Audio Devices

You can connect speakers, a microphone, headphones, and record/playback devices such as cassette players, CD players, and VCRs to the audio connectors on the computer. The connectors are located on the right side of the computer. Dell recommends using amplified speakers for the best sound.

See your Microsoft Windows 98 documentation for the location of sound application programs such as mixers and volume control.

You can control the sound coming from the external speakers and the computer's integrated speakers with the volume control dial. You can also use the keyboard to adjust the volumes. Press <Fn><Page Dn> to lower the volume. Press <Fn><Page Up> to increase the volume. Press <Fn><End> to enable or disable both the integrated and external speakers.

NOTE: If no sound comes from the speakers, make sure that the sound is not disabled. Press <Fn><End> and check the volume control dial.

See "Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft Windows 98" and "Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft Windows NT® " for information about reinstalling the audio drivers. The drivers are located on the System Software CD.

Embedded Numeric Keypad

As you work, you may want to use the embedded numeric keypad (see Figure 3) to enter numbers in spreadsheet or financial programs. The embedded numeric keypad shares some of the keys on your computer's keyboard. The

number and symbol characters are marked to the right on these keys; the cursor-control functions are marked on the front of these keys. To activate the embedded numeric keypad, press <Num Lk>. (The Num Lock indicator lights up).

Figure 3. Embedded Numeric Keypad

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Some key combinations can be used whether the keypad is off or on.

NOTE: When using the integrated keyboard, you press <Fn> and the appropriate keys to perform certain functions (see Table 1). To perform such functions on an external keyboard, you press

<Scroll Lock> and the appropriate keys. You must be sure that the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

Use the numeric keypad combinations in Table 1 to enable and disable several numeric keypad functions.

Table 1. Embedded Numeric Keypad Key Combinations

When Keypad Is On Function

<Num Lk> Toggles the embedded numeric keypad off <Fn><key> Temporarily disables the embedded numeric keypad; enables the

lowercase characters/functions of the keyboard

<Fn><Shift><key> Temporarily disables the embedded numeric keypad; enables the

uppercase characters/functions of the keyboard

<Shift><cursor key> Temporarily enables a cursor-control key in the embedded numeric

keypad

When Keypad Is Off Function

<Num Lk> Toggles the embedded numeric keypad on <Fn><cursor key> Temporarily enables a cursor-control key in the embedded numeric

keypad

Key Combinations

Display Key Combinations

NOTE: When using the integrated keyboard, you press <Fn> and the appropriate keys to perform certain functions (see Table 2). To perform such functions on an external keyboard, you press

<Scroll Lock> and the appropriate keys. You must be sure that the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

Use the key combinations in Table 2 to adjust the computer's display.

NOTE: The display key combinations function for super-twist nematic (STN) displays only.

Table 2. Display Key Combinations

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Key Combinations

Function

<Fn> + down arrow

Incrementally decreases brightness.

<Fn> + up arrow

Incrementally increases brightness.

<Fn> + right arrow

Decreases contrast, which has no effect on an active-matrix display.

<Fn> + left arrow

Increases contrast, which has no effect on an active-matrix display.

<Fn><F5> Toggles the computer's display between regular video mode and reverse video mode (white on

black). This key combination works only if the computer is in text mode; it has no effect if the

computer is running a graphical operating system or application program. <Fn><F7> Toggles the computer’s display between expanded mode and regular video mode. <Fn><F8> Switches the video image to the next display in the following sequence: the display, an external

monitor, or both the display and the monitor simultaneously. This key combination may not be

supported under certain conditions.

<Fn><d>

Turns off the display. This key combination may not be supported under certain conditions.

The extended desktop feature (the ability to simultaneously display video of the same content and resolution on both the computer display screen and the external monitor) is not supported if the computer is booted to MS-DOS®, using a full-screen MS-DOS session under a Microsoft Windows operating system, or the ATI Mobility M1 video driver is not loaded. This limitation may also be noted in operating systems other than Microsoft Windows.

Certain key combinations may not function with the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) or may require configuration with the Power Management Properties window in the Control Panel. See

"Power Conservation."

Power Conservation Key Combinations

NOTE: When using the integrated keyboard, you press <Fn> and the appropriate keys to perform certain functions (see Table 3). To perform such functions on an external keyboard, you press

<Scroll Lock> and the appropriate keys. You must be sure that the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

Use the key combinations in Table 3 to activate or turn off the computer's power conservation features.

Table 3. Power Conservation Key Combinations

Key Combinations Function

<Fn><d> Turns off the display*

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<Fn><h> Turns off the hard-disk drive* <Fn><Esc> Activates sleep or standby mode <Fn><a> or

<Fn><q> on French keyboards

Activates save-to-disk suspend (S2D) mode or hibernate mode(ACPI only)*

* This key combination does not function with ACPI if the settings have not been configured with the Power Management Properties window in the Control Panel. See

Power Conservation.

Processing Speed Key Combinations

NOTE: When using the integrated keyboard, you press <Fn> and the appropriate keys to perform certain functions (see

Table 4). To perform such functions on an external keyboard, you press

<Scroll Lock> and the appropriate keys. You must be sure that the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

Use the key combinations in Table 4 to change the computer's processing speed.

Table 4. Processing Speed Key Combinations

Key Combinations Function

<Fn><\> Switches between the microprocessor's maximum speed and a slower compatibility speed <Ctrl><\> In full MS-DOS mode or in a full-screen DOS box, switches between the microprocessor’s

maximum speed and a slower compatibility speed

Speaker Key Combinations

NOTE: When using the integrated keyboard, you press <Fn> and the appropriate keys to perform certain functions (see Table 5). To perform such functions on an external keyboard, you press

<Scroll Lock> and the appropriate keys. You must be sure that the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

Use the key combinations in Table 5 to adjust the computer's speaker volume and to enable and disable the speakers.

Table 5. Speaker Key Combinations

Key Combinations Function

<Fn><Page Up> Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and the external speakers, if attached <Fn><Page Dn> Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and the external speakers, if attached <Fn><End> Enables and disables the integrated speakers and the external speakers, if attached

System Function Key Combinations

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NOTE: When using the integrated keyboard, you press <Fn> and the appropriate keys to perform certain functions (see Table 6). To perform such functions on an external keyboard, you press

<Scroll Lock> and the appropriate keys. You must be sure that the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

Use the key combinations in Table 6 to access MS-DOS, open the System Setup program, and open the Battery Status screen of the System Setup program.

Table 6. System Function Key Combinations

Key Combinations Function

<Ctrl><Alt><Del> Restarts (reboots) the computer in MS-DOS mode. In the Microsoft Windows 98 and

Windows NT operating systems, click the Start button and click Shut Down. <Fn><F1>* Opens the System Setup program. <Fn><F3>* Opens the Battery Status screen of the System Setup program.

* This key combination does not function with ACPI.

CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Drive Key Combinations

NOTE: When using the integrated keyboard, you press <Fn> and the appropriate keys to perform certain functions. To perform such functions on an external keyboard, you press <Scroll Lock> and the appropriate keys. You must be sure that the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

To eject the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM tray, press <Fn><F10>.

Dell™ DualPoint™ Integrated Pointing Device

Cursor Pointing Devices

Your computer is equipped with the unique Dell DualPoint integrated pointing device. The DualPoint integrated pointing device supports two types of cursor pointing devices (see Figure 4 and Figure 5) that perform traditional

mouse functions: the touch pad and the track stick. You can choose to use the touch pad only, the track stick only, or both at the same time.

Two sets of buttons located above and below the touch pad enable you to perform standard mouse functions with your thumb without removing your hands from the keyboard. You can also take advantage of the option to use "buttonless" selection features by clicking or double-clicking on either the touch pad or the track stick.

DualPoint integrated pointing device software allows you to set the default for the type of cursor pointing device you want to use, as well as sensitivity, motion, and drag-and-drop features of both the touch pad and the track stick.

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NOTES: When enabled, the DualPoint integrated pointing device (whether touch pad only, track stick only, or both) uses interrupt request (IRQ) 12. No other device can use IRQ12 while the DualPoint integrated pointing device is enabled.

When you attach an external Personal System/2 (PS/2)-mouse to the computer, the DualPoint integrated pointing device is automatically disabled.

Using the Dell DualPoint Integrated Pointing Device

The PS/2 touch pad (see Figure 4) detects the position of your finger over a touch-sensitive area to position the cursor within the display screen. The touch pad provides the computer with full mouse functionality. The touch pad’s two buttons, located directly below the touch pad, correspond to the left and right buttons on a standard mouse.

Figure 4. PS/2 Touch Pad

To best use the touch pad, use the following techniques:

● To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the smooth sensor area.

● To select an object, gently tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch

pad button. The touch pad buttons perform standard mouse functions.

● To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and double-tap on the touch pad. On

the second tap, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected object by sliding your finger across the surface.

● To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and then tap the touch pad or the left touch pad

button twice.

Using the Track Stick

The track stick (see Figure 5) detects the pressure and direction that you move your finger when touching the track stick cap located near the center of the keyboard. The two buttons located between the touch pad and the space bar on the keyboard correspond to the left and right buttons on a standard mouse.

Figure 5. Track Stick

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To best use the track stick, use the following techniques:

● To move the cursor, apply pressure to the track stick with your right or left index finger. Press up or down to

move the cursor to the top or bottom of the display screen. Press left or right to move the cursor to the left or right of the display screen.

● To select an object, tap once on the track stick or use your thumb to press the left track stick button. The track

stick buttons perform standard mouse functions.

● To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object. Then press and hold the left track

stick button. Leave your thumb on the button and move the selected object by pressing the track stick in the desired direction.

● To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and then tap the left track stick button twice or tap

the track stick itself twice. The track stick functions much like the touch pad in that it allows you to use buttons for mouse functions or the pointing device itself.

Customizing the DualPoint Integrated Pointing Device

The DualPoint integrated pointing device software allows you to set the default for the type of cursor pointing device you want to use, as well as sensitivity, motion, and drag-and-drop features of both the touch pad and track stick. To customize the DualPoint integrated pointing device, perform the following steps:

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel.

2. Double-click the Mouse icon to open the Mouse Properties window and click the Touch tab.

3. Select the settings that work best for you and click Apply.

4. Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

You can also click the touch pad icon on the taskbar and click Touch Pad Properties to open the Mouse Properties control panel.

Changing the Track Stick Cap

Your computer came with four additional track stick caps in assorted colors. You may need to change the track stick cap if it wears down from prolonged use.

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To change the track stick cap, perform the following steps:

1. Pull the cap off the track stick (see Figure 6).

Figure 6. Removing the Track Stick Cap

2. Align a new cap over the square track stick post and gently press the cap down onto the post.

3. Test the track stick to ensure that the cap is seated properly.

PC Cards

About PC Cards

The computer has a slot into which you can install up to two PC Cards if the PC Cards comply with Release 2.01 of the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) standard and Release 4.2 of the Japanese Electronic Industry Development Association (JEIDA) standard.

The computer supports type I, type II, and type III PC Cards (including memory cards) and advanced technology attachment (ATA) cards that emulate integrated drive electronics (IDE) hard-disk drives. Also supported are input/ output (I/O) cards such as modems, local area network (LAN) cards, wireless LAN cards, and small computer system interface (SCSI) cards.

If you are using the Microsoft Windows 98 operating system, you can use a zoomed video (ZV) PC Card only in the lower PC Card connector. (The Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 operating system does not support ZV.)

NOTES: A PC Card is not a boot device. The "type" of a card refers to its thickness, not its functionality.

Your computer recognizes most I/O cards and automatically loads the device driver associated with that card.

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NOTICE: Take extra precautions if you use extended PC Cards in your computer. Extended cards are longer versions of standard PC Cards. They fit into, and operate correctly with, your computer. However, they extend beyond the edge of the computer when installed. If something strikes the exposed end of an installed card, your system board can be damaged. Because of space considerations, you may have trouble using two PC Cards in your computer if one of them is an extended card. It may be easier to use an extended card if you install it in the upper PC Card connector. Always remove an extended PC Card before you pack the computer in its carrying case.

Installing PC Cards

You can use the following PC Card combinations in the PC Card slots:

● A single type I or type II card (using either the upper or lower PC Card connector)

● A single type III card (using the lower PC Card connector only)

● One type I card and one type II card (using either connector)

● Two type I cards or two type II cards

NOTE: Use a ZV PC Card in the lower connector only.

PC Cards are generally marked with a symbol, such as a triangle or an arrow, to indicate which end should be inserted into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card.

You do not need to turn off your computer or exit standby mode before you install a PC Card. To install a PC Card (see Figure 7), perform the following steps:

1. If necessary, remove the blank from the PC Card connector you intend to use by pressing the eject button and pulling the blank out.

2. Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the slot and the top side of the card facing up.

3. Insert the card into the slot, and press in firmly until the card is completely seated in the internal PC Card

connector.

4. If you encounter too much resistance when inserting it, do not force the card. Check the card's orientation and try again.

Figure 7. Installing a PC Card

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PC Card Blanks

Save the blank to use whenever you do not have a PC Card installed. The blank protects the PC Card connector from dust and other particles.

Removing PC Cards

NOTICE: If you are using Windows 98, use the PC Card configuration utility on the taskbar to select and stop operation of the card before you remove it. If you do not remove the card in the configuration utility, you could lose data from open application programs.

To remove a PC Card (see Figure 8), perform the following steps:

1. Press the PC Card eject button. The PC Card or blank protrudes from the slot slightly. It does not come out all the way.

2. Gently remove the card.

Figure 8. Removing a PC Card

To protect the PC Card connectors, install a blank if you are not going to use the connector.

Configuring PC Cards

The PC Card configuration utility performs the following functions:

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● Notifies you whenever a PC Card is inserted and tells you how the card is configured

● Automatically loads the proper device driver if it is available on the hard-disk drive

● If drivers are not available on the hard-disk drive, prompts you to install them using the device driver diskette

that came with the card

The operating system automatically detects a PC Card and opens the Add New Hardware menu from the Control

Panel. For information, see the operating system documentation.

Display

Adjusting the Brightness

To accommodate local lighting conditions or video output from the software you are using, you can use the key combinations shown in

Table 7.

NOTE: When you run the computer on battery power, set your computer's brightness control to the lowest setting that affords comfortable viewing. You can conserve up to 10 percent of battery power by using the minimum brightness setting.

Table 7. Brightness Key Combinations and Their Functions

Key Combinations Function

<Fn> + down arrow Decreases brightness <Fn> + up arrow Increases brightness <Fn> + right arrow Decreases contrast

(has no effect on an active-matrix display)

<Fn> + left arrow Increases contrast

(has no effect on an active-matrix display)

NOTES: You cannot change contrast on an active-matrix (thin film transistor [TFT]) display. Contrast adjustments are only necessary on passive matrix displays.

When using the integrated keyboard, you press <Fn> and the appropriate keys to perform certain functions. To perform such functions on an external keyboard, you press <Scroll Lock> and the appropriate keys. You must be sure that the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

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Expanded Video Mode

When working in text mode, you can select the font used to display text. Press <Fn><F7> to toggle between a regular serif font and a serif font with extra leading. Expanded video mode is useful if you are working in 800 x 600 resolution on a 14.1-inch extended graphics array (XGA) display.

NOTE: You may have trouble using the display fonts feature with MS-DOS® programs that use downloaded fonts.

Customizing Video Resolution

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window appears.

2. Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties window appears.

3. Click the Settings tab, and then set the resolution by dragging the slider in the Screen Area box. In the Colors box, choose the number of colors from the menu provided. For more information, see your operating

system documentation. If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust

automatically to the closest possible setting.

If You Have Display Problems

If your computer is receiving power, but nothing appears on your display (such as light, text, or graphics) or the display image does not appear as you would expect, try the following measures to resolve the problem:

1. If the display is blank, you may be in standby mode. Press the power button to resume from standby mode. If the display is blank and the power light-emitting diode (LED) is on, the display may have timed out. In this case, press any key on the keyboard to resume normal operation.

2. If the low-battery light is blinking, connect the AC adapter to the computer or replace the battery.

3. Adjust the brightness.

4. If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image to the display.

Extended Desktop Mode

With the Microsoft Windows 98 operating system, you can use an external monitor as an extension of your display. The extended desktop feature gives your computer the ability to display video of different content and resolution on both the computer display screen and the external display. To set up your computer for extended desktop, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work, close all open files and application programs, and shut down the computer.

2. Connect the external monitor, TV, or projector to the computer.

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3. Turn your computer on.

4. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

5. Change the Colors option to High Color (16 bit) or True Color (24 bit).

6. Click on the picture of Monitor 2.

The Monitor # 2 dialog box appears. It asks if you want to activate Monitor 2.

7. Click Yes.

8. Adjust the Screen Area to the desired resolution to be displayed on your external monitor.

9. Change the Colors option to High Color (16 bit) or True Color (24 bit).

10. Drag the picture of Monitor 2 to match the physical position of the external monitor relative to your computer's

display. For example, if the external monitor is located physically above your computer's display, drag the Monitor 2 picture to place it above the Monitor 1 picture.

11. Verify that the Extend my Windows desktop to this monitor check box is checked. If it is not checked, click on the check box to check it.

12. Click Apply.

13. Click OK.

14. Click Yes.

15. Click OK to close the Display Properties dialog box.

NOTE: True Simul-mode (the ability to simultaneously display video of the same content and resolution on both the computer display screen and the external monitor) is not supported if the computer is booted to MS-DOS, using a full-screen MS-DOS session under a Microsoft Windows operating system, or the ATI Mobility M1 video driver is not loaded. This limitation may also be noted in operating systems other than Microsoft Windows.

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Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft Windows 98: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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Back to Contents Page

Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft® Windows® 98: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

Overview Installing Softex BayManager

Installing the Video Drivers Enabling Microsoft Infrared Support

Installing the Audio Drivers Installing the System Utilities

Installing the Docking Drivers Installing the Software DVD Decoder

Installing the Dell DualPoint Integrated Pointing Device Drivers

Installing the System Help

Overview

All of your computer’s drivers for Dell-installed devices are operative when you receive the computer. No further installation or configuration is needed. However, if you ever need to reinstall any of these drivers, the driver files are provided on the System Software CD. For instructions on reinstalling a particular driver, see the following subsection that corresponds to that driver.

Often device problems can be corrected by reinstalling the appropriate drivers. Also, hardware manufacturers frequently provide updated drivers that support feature enhancements or that correct problems. Obtain updated drivers for products purchased from Dell from the support section of the Dell World Wide Web Support site (http://

support.dell.com).

NOTICE: Drivers available on the Dell Web site have been validated for correct operation on Dell systems. Installing drivers obtained from other sources may cause errors or performance degradation.

To install the system software, you need the following items:

● System Software CD

● CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive installed in the media bay of the computer

● Microsoft Windows 98 CD

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Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft Windows 98: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

● Microsoft Boot Disk Windows 98 Series diskette

NOTE: Your System Software CD contains drivers for operating systems that may not be on your computer. Verify that the driver you are loading is under your operating system subdirectory.

Dell recommends that you print these procedures before you begin.

NOTE: For more information on using the operating system installed on your computer by Dell, see the operating system user's guide that came with your computer. You can also access system tools and documentation from Dell's technical support page (http://support.dell.com). To do so, click support.dell.com, enter your service tag or Express Service Code, and click Go!.

NOTICE: Do not dock the computer before turning it on the first time.

Installing the Video Drivers

The video driver controls features such as video resolution and the color palette.

NOTE: If you need to use extended video modes, check the documentation that came with the application program to determine if the drivers are provided. If not, contact the software manufacturer to get the necessary drivers.

To install the video driver for Windows 98, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Win98 folder.

6. Double-click the Updated folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer.

After installing the video drivers and restarting your computer, perform the following steps to set the display parameters:

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1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

The Control Panel window appears.

2. Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties window appears.

3. Click the Settings tab.

4. Change the Colors option from 256 colors to True Color (24 bit).

5. Set the Screen area for your display to 1024 x 768.

6. Click Apply.

Installing the Audio Drivers

The audio driver allows you to customize the sound features of your computer. To install the audio driver, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Win98 folder.

6. Double-click the Audio folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish.

Installing the Docking Drivers (Optional)

NOTE: If your computer uses Windows 98, the computer is already configured to work with the advanced port replicator (APR). However, if you must reinstall Windows 98, you must reload these docking drivers.

To successfully connect your computer to the APR, you must run the Dock QuickInstall program to install docking

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drivers.

Running Dock QuickInstall

To run Dock QuickInstall, perform the following steps:

1. If the computer has never been turned on, turn it on now while it is undocked and complete the operating

system setup. Then go to step 2. For setup instructions, see the Dell-supplied operating system setup guide that came with your computer.

2. Save your work in all open application programs because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

3. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

4. Double-click the My Computer icon.

5. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

6. Double-click the Win98 folder.

7. Double-click the Dockquik folder.

8. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

9. Double-click the setup.exe file.

10. Follow the instructions on your display.

11. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer.

Docking for the First Time

To dock your computer for the first time, perform the following steps:

1. If the computer has never been turned on, turn it on now while it is undocked and complete the operating system setup. Then go to step 2.

For setup instructions, see the Dell Inspiron Systems Setup Guide that came with the computer. If you have completed the operating system setup, turn on the computer, and then go to step 2.

2. Dock the computer by aligning the dock connector on your computer with the dock connector on the APR and attaching the two.

For instructions, see your Advanced Port Replicator User’s Guide. The operating system creates a hardware profile for the APR.

3. To load the appropriate drivers for use with the APR, follow the instructions on the display. When prompted, restart the computer.

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Installing the Dell DualPoint™ Integrated Pointing Device Drivers

DualPoint integrated pointing device drivers and associated utilities allow you to use and customize the integrated touch pad, track stick, or an external mouse. To install these drivers, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Win98 folder.

6. Double-click the Touchpad folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer.

Installing Softex BayManager

The Softex BayManager software allows you to swap media bay devices without shutting down and rebooting your computer. To install Softex BayManager, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Win98 folder.

6. Double-click the Baymgr folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish.

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Enabling Microsoft Infrared Support

You must enable Microsoft infrared support for Windows 98 before you can use infrared features. To enable Microsoft infrared support, perform the following steps:

1. On Page 2 of the System Setup program, change the setting in the Infrared Data Port field to COM3 (recommended COM assignment). Select Fast IR or Slow IR in the Infrared Mode field. See "

System Setup

Program

" for more information.

2. Shut down and reboot your computer.

3. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

4. Double-click the Add New Hardware icon.

The Add New Hardware Wizard appears.

5. Click Next to continue.

NOTE: If the infrared device is not listed, click No, and then click Next.

6. When the Add New Hardware Wizard asks to search for new hardware, click No and then click Next.

7. When the Hardware Types window appears, click Infrared and then click Next.

8. When the Add Infrared Device Wizard window appears, click Next.

9. To complete this portion of the installation, follow the instructions on your display.

10. To enable infrared support, shut down and reboot your computer.

Installing the System Utilities

System utilities let you configure features such as the save-to-disk suspend (S2D) file. To copy the system utilities to your hard-disk drive, perform the following steps.

NOTE: You can also run the system utilities directly from the System Software CD.

1. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

2. Double-click the My Computer icon.

3. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

4. Double-click the Win98 folder.

5. Double-click the Suspend folder.

NOTE: If you have the S2D folder on your CD, double-click it and proceed to step 6.

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6. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

7. Copy each of the utilities on the System Software CD to the c:\dell directory on your hard-disk drive. The

utilities have the following filenames: mks2d.exe, rms2d.exe, asset.com, and readme.s2d. For more information on copying files, see the documentation that came with the operating system.

After you copy the utilities to your hard-disk drive, you must restart your computer in the MS-DOS® mode to use the utilities.

See the readme.s2d file on the System Software CD for more information on using the S2D utilities.

Installing the Software DVD Decoder (Optional)

The DVD decoder driver allows you to play DVD movies on the computer.

NOTE: When you are prompted to select a directory, Dell recommends using the default directory settings.

1. Insert the software DVD decoder CD into the DVD-ROM drive.

2. Double-click the My Computer icon.

3. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

4. Double-click the appropriate language folder.

5. Double-click the setup.exe file.

6. Follow the instructions on your display.

7. At the Setup Complete screen, be sure that the Yes, I want to restart my computer now radio button is

selected, and then click Finish.

The first time you play a DVD after installing this driver, you may be prompted to change the region setting.

Installing the System Help

The Dell Inspiron system Help is available on the System Software CD. You can also access it from Dell’s Support Web site (http://support.dell.com).

Installing Help From the CD

To install the system Help from the System Software CD, perform the following steps:

1. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive.

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2. Double-click the My Computer icon, and then double-click the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive icon.

3. Double-click the Guide folder, and then double-click the appropriate language folder for the version of the Help

you want to install.

4. Right-click the popup.ocx file, and then click Copy.

NOTE: You must copy the popup.ocx file into the Windows registry; otherwise, error messages may appear.

5. Double-click the My Computer icon, and then double-click the C: drive icon.

6. Double-click the Windows folder, double-click the System folder, and then right-click Paste.

7. Click Start, and then click Run....

8. Type regsvr32 popup.ocx and then press <Enter>.

9. Click OK when a window indicates that the file was successfully registered.

10. Double-click the My Computer icon, and then double-click the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM icon.

11. Double-click the Guide folder, and then double-click the appropriate language folder for the version of the Help

you want to install.

12. Right-click and hold 3700help and drag it to the Windows desktop.

13. Release the right mouse button.

14. Left-click Copy Here.

15. Double-click the 3700help icon to access the system Help.

Downloading Help From the Support Web Site

To download the system Help from http://support.dell.com, see "Online Documentation" for instructions.

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Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft Windows NT: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Dell

SUPPORT

Home Solutions Upgrades Downloads Contact Customer Care Learn Site Map

My Order Status

Order Status

Dell recommends Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional

Back to Contents Page

Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft® Windows NT®: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

Overview Installing Softex Docking Services

Installing the System Utilities Installing the Audio Drivers

Installing the Video Drivers Installing the Dell DualPoint™ Integrated Pointing

Device Drivers

Installing the Power Management Utility Installing the System Help

Installing the PC Card Utility

Overview

This section explains how to reinstall device drivers and utilities on your Dell portable computer running the Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 operating system.

To install the system software, you need the following items:

● Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 CD

● Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 Service Pack 5 CD

● System Software CD

● CD-ROM drive (installed)

● One formatted diskette

The following subsections describe the drivers and utilities that are provided on the System Software CD.

NOTE: To install the drivers and utilities correctly, you must install them in the order presented in this document.

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Installing the System Utilities

System utilities let you configure features such as the save-to-disk suspend (S2D) partition. To copy the system utilities to your hard-disk drive, perform the following steps.

NOTE: You can also run the system utilities directly from the System Software CD.

1. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

2. Double-click the My Computer icon.

3. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

4. Double-click the Nt4 folder.

5. Double-click the Suspend folder.

6. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

7. Copy each of the utilities on the System Software CD to the c:\dell directory on your hard-disk drive. The

utilities have the following filenames: mks2d.exe, rms2d.exe, asset.com, and readme.s2d. For more information on copying files, see the documentation that came with the operating system.

After you copy the utilities to your hard-disk drive, you must restart your computer in the MS-DOS® mode to use the utilities.

See the readme.s2d file on the System Software CD for more information on using the save-to-disk suspend (S2D) partition utilities.

Installing the Video Drivers

The video driver controls features such as video resolution and the color palette.

NOTE: If you need to use extended video modes, check the documentation that came with the application program to determine if the drivers are provided. If the drivers are not provided, contact the software manufacturer to get the necessary drivers.

To install the video driver for Windows NT 4.0, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

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4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Nt4 folder.

6. Double-click the Video folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer.

After installing the video drivers and restarting your computer, perform the following steps to set the display parameters:

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window appears.

2. Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties window appears.

3. Click the Settings tab.

4. Change the Colors option from 256 colors to 1677216 colors.

5. Set the Desktop Area area for your display to 1024 x 768.

6. Click Test.

7. Press OK on the Testing Mode window.

8. Click Yes on the second Testing Mode window to verify that the bitmap was displayed properly.

9. Click OK.

Installing the Power Management Utility

Dell provides a power management utility that helps you conserve battery power and view available power levels. To install the power management utility, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Nt4 folder.

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6. Double-click the Powermgt folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer.

Installing the PC Card Utility

Dell provides a PC Card utility that allows you to view and configure settings for your PC Card(s). To install the PC Card utility, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Nt4 folder.

6. Double-click the Pccard folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer.

Installing Softex Docking Services

Dell provides Softex Docking Services software that contains support for the following features:

● Hot-docking and warm-undocking your portable computer from the port replicator

● Hot-swapping devices such as diskette drives, hard-disk drives, large-storage drives, DVD-ROM drives, and

CD-ROM drives to and from your portable computer’s media bay

● Compatibility with the Power Management Controller, which allows you to suspend and resume the operation

of your portable computer without affecting your ability to use the port replicator

● Docking or undocking your portable computer while it is in standby mode

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● Docking services available in French, German, Spanish, and Japanese

To install Softex Docking Services, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Nt4 folder.

6. Double-click the Docks folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer.

Installing the Audio Drivers

Dell provides audio drivers so that you can customize the sound features of your computer.

To install the audio drivers, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Nt4 folder.

6. Double-click the Audio folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer.

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Installing the Dell DualPoint™ Integrated Pointing Device Drivers

DualPoint integrated pointing device drivers allow you to use and customize the integrated touch pad, the track stick, or an external mouse. To install these drivers, perform the following steps:

1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.

2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Double-click the My Computer icon.

4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

5. Double-click the Nt4 folder.

6. Double-click the Touchpad folder.

7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision.

8. Double-click the setup.exe file.

9. Follow the instructions on your display.

10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer.

Installing the System Help

The Dell Inspiron system Help is available on the System Software CD. You can also access it from Dell’s Support Web site (http://support.dell.com).

NOTE: You must install Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.01 from the Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 Service Pack 5 CD prior to installing the system Help.

Installing Help From the CD

To install the system Help from the System Software CD, perform the following steps:

1. Insert the CD into the CD-ROM drive.

2. Double-click the My Computer icon, and then double-click the CD-ROM drive icon.

3. Double-click the Guide folder, and then double-click the appropriate language folder for the version of the Help

you want to install.

4. Right-click and hold 3700help and drag it to the Windows desktop.

5. Release the right mouse button.

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6. Left-click Copy Here.

7. Double-click the 3700help icon to access the system Help.

Downloading Help From the Support Web Site

To download the system Help from http://support.dell.com, see "Online Documentation" for instructions.

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Technical Specifications: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Dell

SUPPORT

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Dell recommends Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional

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Technical Specifications: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

Microprocessor 14.1-Inch Display

Chip Set and Bus Keyboard

PC Cards Battery

Memory AC Adapter

Connectors Physical

Audio Environmental (Computer)

Video Touch Pad

12.1-Inch Display Track Stick

Microprocessor

Microprocessor type Intel® Mobile Celeron™ or Pentium® II or III microprocessor

Chip Set and Bus

System chip set Intel Mobile 440BX AGP set Microprocessor data bus

width

64 bits

DRAM bus width 64 bits Address bus width 32 bits

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Flash EPROM 4 Mb AGP bus 66 MHz PCI bus 33 MHz

PC Cards

CardBus controller Texas Instruments PCI 1225 CardBus controller PC Card connectors two (supports Type I and Type II cards in any combination; Type III cards can be

used only in the lower connector; the lower connector supports zoomed video cards

on systems using the Microsoft® Windows® 98 operating system) Cards supported 3.3-V and 5-V cards PC Card connector size 68 pins Data width (maximum):

PCMCIA 16 bits

CardBus 32 bits

Memory

Architecture SDRAM Memory module sockets two Memory module capacities

and type

32-, 64-, 128-, 192-, and 256-MB 3.3-V SDRAM1 modules

Standard RAM 64-MB memory module Maximum RAM 512 MB Memory clock speed 100 MHz Memory access time CL2 or CL3

NOTE: CL3 indicates a CAS latency of 3 clocks.

BIOS address F000:0000-F000:FFFF

Connectors

Serial (DTE) 9-pin connector; 16,550-compatible, 16-byte buffer Parallel 25-hole connector; unidirectional, bidirectional, EPP 1.9, or ECP

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Technical Specifications: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Video 15-hole connector PS/2 6-pin mini-DIN connector Infrared IrDA 1.1 connector

Audio

microphone-in connector;

line-in connector;

line-out connector USB 4-pin USB-compliant connector Docking 240-pin connector

TV-out S-video 7-pin mini-DIN connector (an S-video to composite video adapter is also included

with the computer)

Audio

Audio type Sound Blaster (software emulation-capable) Audio controller ESS Maestro 2E Stereo conversion 16 bit (analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog) Interfaces:

Internal PCI bus/AC97

External

microphone (minijack); line-in; headphone

Speakers two 8-ohm speakers Internal speaker amplifier 1-W channel into 8-ohms stereo Controls (volume) key combinations and application program menus

Video

Video type 256-bit hardware-accelerated Data bus 2X AGP Video controller ATI Mobility M1 Video memory 8.0 MB

12.1-Inch Display

Type SVGA, active-matrix color (TFT)

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Technical Specifications: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Dimensions (active area):

Height 184.5 mm (7.3 inches)

Width 246 mm (9.7 inches)

Diagonal 307.5 mm (12.1 inches)

Maximum resolution/colors 800 x 600 pixels; 18-bit (262,144-color) display Response time (typical) 30-ms rise/20-ms fall Operating angle 0° to 180° Viewing angles:

Horizontal ± 45° from center

Vertical +10° and -30° from center

Dot pitch 0.308 mm (horizontal and vertical) Power consumption:

Panel (typical) 0.85 W

Backlight 1.89-W minimum to 3.78-W maximum

Controls brightness can be controlled through a key combination

14.1-Inch Display

Type XGA, active-matrix color (TFT) Dimensions (active area):

Height 214.3 mm (8.4 inches)

Width 285.7 mm (11.3 inches)

Diagonal 357.1 mm (14.1 inches)

Maximum resolution/colors 1024 x 768; 24-bit color Response time (typical) 20-ms rise (maximum)/50-ms fall (maximum) Operating angle 0° (closed) to 180°

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Technical Specifications: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Viewing angles:

Horizontal ± 45°

Vertical +15°/–30°

Dot pitch 0.28 mm Power consumption:

Panel (typical) 1.0 W

Backlight 3.4 W

Controls brightness can be controlled through a key combination

Keyboard

Number of keys

87 (U.S., Canada, Korea, Thailand, and locations that use traditional Chinese);

88 (Europe);

90 (Japan) Key travel

3.0 mm + 0.5 mm/–0.2 mm (0.12 inch + 0.02 inch/ –0.0008 inch)

(0.11 inch ± 0.016 inch) Key spacing 19.05 mm ± 0.3 mm (0.75 inch ± 0.012 inch)

Battery

Type lithium ion Dimensions:

Height 21.5 mm (0.83 inch)

Depth 88.5 mm (3.48 inches)

Width 139.0 mm (5.47 inches)

Weight 0.39 kg (0.87 lb)

Voltage 14.8 VDC Capacity 53 WH

Charge time (approximate):

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Technical Specifications: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Computer on 2.5 hours

Computer off 1 hour

Life span (approximate)

500 discharge/charge cycles Temperature range:

Charge 0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F)

Storage –20° to 60°C (–4° to 140°F)

AC Adapter

Input voltage 90 to 135 VAC and 164 to 264 VAC Input current (maximum) 1.5 A Input frequency 47 to 63 Hz Output current

4.5 A (maximum at 4-second pulse);

3.51 A (continuous) Rated output voltage 20.0 VDC Height 27.94 mm (1.1 inches) Width 58.42 mm (2.3 inches) Depth 133.35 mm (5.25 inches) Weight (with cables) 0.4 kg (0.9 LB) Temperature range:

Operating 0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F)

Storage –20° to 60°C (–4° to 140°F)

Physical

Height 38.6 mm (1.52 inches) Width 306.0 mm (12.05 inches) Depth 241.0 mm (9.49 inches)

Weight:

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Technical Specifications: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

With 12.1-inch display

2.60 kg (5.72 LB) with travel module installed in media bay

2.80 kg (6.16 LB) with diskette drive installed in media bay

2.92 kg (6.45 LB) with CD-ROM drive installed in media bay

With 14.1-inch display

2.73 kg (6.02 LB) with travel module installed in media bay

2.93 kg (6.46 LB) with diskette drive installed in media bay

3.06 kg (6.74 LB) with CD-ROM drive installed in media bay

Environmental (Computer)

Temperature:

Operating 0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F)

Storage –20° to 60°C (–4° to 140°F)

Relative humidity (maximum):

Operating 10% to 90% (noncondensing)

Storage 5% to 95% (noncondensing)

Maximum vibration:

Operating 0.9 GRMS using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates user environment

Storage 1.3 GRMS using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates air/truck shipment

Maximum shock:

Operating

152.4 cm/sec (60.0 inches/sec)

(equal to a half-sine pulse width of 2 ms)

Storage

203.2 cm/sec (80 inches/sec)

(equal to a half-sine pulse width of 2 ms)

Altitude (maximum):

Operating –18.0 m to 3048 m (–59 to 10,000 ft)

Storage –18.0 m to 10,668 m (–59 to 35,000 ft)

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Technical Specifications: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Touch Pad

Interface PS/2-compatible X/Y position resolution

(graphics table mode)

240 cpi

Size:

Thickness 2.8 mm (0.11 inch) at highest component

Width (sensoractive area)

55 mm (2.17 inch)

Height 39 mm (1.54-inch rectangle)

Weight 9.02 g (0.29 oz)

Power:

Supply voltage 5 V ± 10%

Supply current 25 mA (maximum operating for track stick and touch pad combined)

ESD in accordance with IEC-801-2

Track Stick

Interface PS/2-compatible X/Y position resolution 250 counts/sec.@100gf Size protrudes .5 mm higher than surrounding keycaps Power:

Supply voltage 5 V ± .5 VDC

Supply current 25 ma (maximum operating for track stick and touch pad combined)

ESD in accordance with IEC-801-2

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Battery performance features such as charge time and life span can vary according to the conditions under

which the computer and battery are used.

Weights are shown with a hard-disk drive, a battery in the battery bay, and a travel module, diskette drive, or a

CD-ROM drive in the media bay. Your computer might weigh more or less, depending on its configuration.

Measured with the hard-disk drive in head-parked position.

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System Setup Program: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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Back to Contents Page

System Setup Program: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

Overview Page 2 Options

Entering the System Setup Program Page 3 Options

Using the System Setup Program Page 4 Options

Page 1 Options

Overview

Each time you turn on your computer, it compares the installed hardware with the system configuration information stored in nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM). If the system detects a discrepancy, it generates an error message for each incorrect configuration setting. You can use the System Setup program to adjust the configuration settings.

You can use the System Setup program as follows:

● To set or change user-selectable features—for example, your password or power management features

● To verify information about your computer's current configuration, such as the amount of system memory

For some setup options, you must reboot the computer before any changes take effect. Changes for other options take effect immediately.

NOTE: If you change an option that is activated by rebooting, the System Setup program displays the setting you selected rather than the setting currently in effect. You must reboot for the new setting to take effect.

After you set up your computer, run the System Setup program to familiarize yourself with your system configuration information and optional settings. Dell recommends that you write down the information for future reference.

NOTE: If the computer uses the Microsoft® Windows NT® 4.0 or Windows® 98 operating system, you must use the System Setup program to view and change your system configuration.

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System Setup Program: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Entering the System Setup Program

Enter and use the System Setup program as follows:

Press <Fn><F1> at any time on the keyboard (or <Scroll Lock><F1> on an external keyboard if the External Hot

Key option is enabled). If you press <Fn><F3> (or <Scroll Lock><F3> on an external keyboard if the External Hot Key option is enabled), the System Setup program opens directly to the Battery Status screen.

NOTE: Certain key combinations may not function with the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) or may require activation with the Power Management Properties window in the Control Panel. See

Power Conservation.

Press <Esc> to exit the System Setup program. If you change the setting of an option that requires rebooting to take effect, exit the operating system before rebooting. (The Help text in the upper-right corner of System Setup screens 1, 2, and 4 tells you if the computer must be rebooted.)

NOTE: If the System Setup program is running when the computer enters standby mode, the computer exits the System Setup program and then activates standby mode.

To enter System Setup on a system running ACPI, you must enter System Setup before the operating system loads. Enter System Setup by pressing <Fn><F1> or <F2> when the F2 message appears during the System Power On startup process.

Using the System Setup Program

The System Setup screens display the current setup and configuration information and optional settings for your computer. Information on the screens is organized in five boxed areas:

● Title

The box at the top of all screens lists the page number, system name, and version number of the basic input/ output system (BIOS).

● Options

The box on the left half of screens 1, 2, and 4 lists options that define the installed hardware in your computer and the power conservation and security features for your computer.

Fields next to the options contain settings or values. You can change those values that appear bright on the screen. Options or values that you cannot change (because they are determined or calculated by the computer) appear less bright.

● Help

The box on the upper-right half of screens 1, 2, and 4 displays help information for the option with a currently

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System Setup Program: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

highlighted field.

● Computer data

The box in the lower-right corner of screens 1, 2, and 4 displays information about your computer.

● Key functions

The line of boxes across the bottom of all screens lists keys and their functions within the System Setup program.

Page 1 Options

See Figure 1 and Table 1 for an explanation of the options and settings on Page 1 of the System Setup program.

Figure 1. Page 1 of the System Setup Program

Table 1. Page 1 Options of the System Setup Program

Option Function

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System Setup Program: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Time Resets the time on the computer's internal clock. Time is kept in a 24-hour format (hours:

minutes:seconds).

NOTE: If a network server controls the time reflected by the Time option, changing this option has no effect.

A change to the Time option takes effect immediately (rebooting is not required). However, you must reboot to make the change apparent to the operating system.

Date Resets the date on the computer's internal calendar.

Your computer automatically displays the day of the week corresponding to the settings in the three fields that follow (month, day-of-the-month, and year).

A change to the Date option takes effect immediately (rebooting is not required). However, you must reboot to make the change apparent to the operating system.

To change the date, press the right-arrow key to increase the number in the highlighted field, or press the left-arrow key to decrease the number. If you prefer, you can type in numbers in the month and day-of-the-month fields.

Primary Hard Drive

Displays the capacity of the computer's internal hard-disk drive. This option does not have any user-selectable settings.

NOTE: The optional second or third hard-disk drives do not appear in this option, even if installed.

Diskette Drive A Identifies the location of the 3.5-inch diskette drive: Modular Bay, Parallel Port, or Not

Installed. No user-selectable settings are available for this option.

Diskette Drive B Identifies the location of a second 3.5-inch diskette drive: Parallel Port, Modular Bay, or Not

Installed. No user-selectable settings are available for this option.

Diskette Reconfig

Allows application programs that access the diskette drive to run at their optimum speed. Settings are At Reboot Only and Any Time.

When Diskette Reconfig is set to Any Time (the default), you do not have to reboot after you install a diskette drive in the media bay or attach a diskette drive to the parallel connector on the back of the computer. However, some application programs such as virus scans that access the diskette drive will run very slowly if the diskette drive is not in the media bay or connected to the parallel port.

When Diskette Reconfig is set to At Reboot Only, such application programs run at normal speed, but you must reboot after installing or attaching a diskette drive.

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Modular Bay (Media Bay) Identifies the kind of device—Diskette Drive, Battery, or CD-ROM Drive—that is

installed in the media bay. If the media bay does not contain a device or if a travel bay is installed, this option reads Not Installed. No user-selectable settings are available for this option.

Docking Ethernet

Controls the internal ethernet controller in the advanced port replicator. A change to this option takes effect when you reboot.

Docking IRQ Tells the computer which IRQ to assign to the advanced port replicator during the boot

sequence. If this option is set to Optimized, the docking station or replicator is assigned a dedicated IRQ during the boot sequence. Select IRQ 11 if a peripheral device requires the use of the dedicated IRQ.

Docking Status Shows whether the computer is attached to an advanced port replicator. No user-selectable

settings are available for this option.

Universal Connect

Functions with the advanced port replicator (APR) if the computer uses Windows 98.

Set this option to Enabled (the default) if you often use more than one APR and want to minimize the initialization time when you connect the replicator to the computer. When this option is set to Disabled, the APR is reinitialized each time it is connected to the computer.

Boot Speed Allows you to choose between the computer's processing speed (the default) and Compatible,

a slower compatibility speed. The compatibility speed varies, depending on the configuration of your system.

When you change the setting in the Boot Speed option, the System Setup program stores and continues to display the new setting even if you do not reboot your computer when you exit the System Setup program. If you start the System Setup program again during your current work session, the processing speed displayed for the Boot Speed option may not match the actual speed at which your computer is running.

For a change in the Boot Speed option to take effect, you must reboot your computer.

Boot First device Determines which disk device your computer uses to find the software needed to start the

operating system.

The term boot refers to the computer's start-up procedure. When you turn on the computer, it "bootstraps" itself into an operational state by loading into memory a small program, which in turn loads the necessary operating system. Boot First device tells the computer where to look first for the files that it needs to load.

Settings for this option are:

Diskette Drive (the default) — Causes your computer to attempt first to boot from a bootable diskette

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Internal HDD — Causes your computer to boot from the hard-disk drive

CDROM/DVDROM Drive — Causes your computer to attempt first to boot from a bootable CD

Modular Bay HDD — Causes your computer to attempt first to boot from the second hard-disk

drive installed in the modular (media) bay

None

I3700 APR NIC — Causes your computer to attempt first to boot from a network source.

For a change in the Boot First device option to take effect, you must reboot your computer.

Boot Second device

If the computer cannot find the software it needs to start the operating system on the drive identified in Boot First device, it will search the device named in Boot Second device.

Settings for the option are:

Internal HDD (the default) — Causes your computer to attempt to boot from the hard-disk drive

Diskette Drive — Causes your computer to attempt to boot from the diskette drive

CDROM/DVDROM Drive — Causes your computer to attempt to boot from a bootable CD

Modular Bay HDD — Causes your computer to boot from the second hard-disk drive installed

in the modular (media) bay

None

I3700 APR NIC — Causes your computer to attempt first to boot from a network source.

For a change in the Boot Second device option to take effect, you must reboot your computer.

Boot Third device

If the computer cannot find the software it needs to start the operating system on the drive identified in Boot Second device, it will search the device named in Boot Third device.

Settings for the option are:

None (the default)

Internal HDD — Causes your computer to attempt to boot from the hard-disk drive

Diskette Drive — Causes your computer to attempt to boot from the diskette drive

CDROM/DVDROM Drive — Causes your computer to attempt to boot from a bootable CD

Modular Bay HDD — Causes your computer to attempt to boot from the second hard-disk

drive installed in the modular (media) bay

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I3700 APR NIC — Causes your computer to attempt first to boot from a network source.

For a change in the Boot Third device option to take effect, you must reboot your computer.

NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help.

Page 2 Options

See Figure 2 and Table 2 for an explanation of the options and settings on Page 2 of the System Setup program.

Figure 2. Page 2 of the System Setup Program

Table 2. Page 2 Options of the System Setup Program

Option Function

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Serial Port Allows you to map the address of the serial port or to disable the serial port.

Settings for this option are:

COM1 (the default) — Maps the serial port to COM1

COM2 — Maps the serial port to COM2

COM3 — Maps the serial port to COM3

COM4 — Maps the serial port to COM4

Disabled — Disables the serial port and its assigned COM address, freeing that interrupt for

another device to use

For a change in the Serial Port option to take effect, you must reboot your computer.

Infrared Data Port

Allows you to avoid resource conflicts by remapping the address of the infrared ports or disabling the port. The COM1, COM2, COM3, and COM4 settings allow you to take advantage of the computer's Fast IR support.

Settings for this option are:

Disabled — Disables the infrared data port and makes the direct memory access (DMA), interrupt request (IRQ), and I/O resources available for another serial device to use

COM1 — Maps the infrared data port to COM1

COM2 — Maps the infrared data port to COM2

COM3 (the default) — Maps the infrared data port to COM3

COM4 — Maps the infrared data port to COM4

For a change in the Infrared Data Port option to take effect, you must reboot your computer.

Infrared Mode If Infrared Data Port is set to any function other than Disabled, specify the Infrared Mode by

selecting one of the following functions:

Fast IR — Use Fast IR if the infrared device supports the Fast IR specification.

Slow IR — Use Slow IR if the infrared device does not support the Fast IR specification.

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Parallel Mode Controls whether the computer's integrated parallel port acts as a Personal System/2 (PS/2)-

compatible (Bidirectional) port, Advanced Technology (AT)-compatible (Normal) port, or Extended Capabilities Port (ECP)-compatible port. The default for Parallel Mode is ECP.

Windows 98 uses ECP protocol automatically if it detects an ECP-compatible device.

Set this option according to the type of peripheral device connected to the parallel port. To determine the correct mode to use, see the documentation that came with the device.

NOTE: The ECP setting also works for most software written for the AT and PS/2 modes. Devices that use ECP mode may come with special drivers that need to be installed in order to use these modes.

Setting Parallel Mode to Disabled disables the parallel port and its assigned LPT address, freeing its interrupt for another device to use.

For a change in the Parallel Mode option to take effect, you must reboot your computer.

Audio Mode Defines the audio resources of the computer and the external devices you use with it. Audio

Mode is set to Full Duplex, which allows the computer's audio system to play and record sounds simultaneously.

Click Volume Allows you to disable or adjust the volume of the keyboard clicks if the Keyboard Click option

is enabled. The default is Maximum.

A change to the Click Volume option takes effect immediately (rebooting is not required).

Keyboard Click Lets you choose whether the integrated keyboard makes audible clicking sounds. The Click

Volume option must be enabled for this option to function. The volume of the simulated key clicks is controlled by the setting in the Click Volume option.

Settings for this option are Disabled (the default) and Enabled.

A change to the Keyboard Click option takes effect immediately (rebooting is not required).

Num Lock Determines if the system boots with the Num Lock enabled or disabled when an external

keyboard is attached.

Settings for this options are Disabled (the default) and Enabled.

A change to the Num Lock option has no effect when the system is booted unless an external keyboard is attached.

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Pointing Device Enables and disables the computer's touch pad and track stick.

Settings for this option are:

Touch Pad-PS/2 Mouse (the default)

Serial Mouse — Disables the touch pad and track stick and allows you to use a mouse

connected to the serial connector on the I/O port

If you want to use a serial mouse, you must first set the Pointing Device option to Serial Mouse.

For a change in the Pointing Device option to take effect, you must reboot your computer.

External Hot Key Lets you use the <Scroll Lock> key on the external keyboard the same way you use the <Fn>

key on the computer's built-in keyboard. Set this option to Scroll Lock (the default) if you are using an external keyboard. Set this option to Not Installed to disable this function on the external keyboard.

Primary Password (System Security)

Displays the current status of the primary password and allows you to assign or change this password.

Settings for this option are:

Disabled (the default) — Indicates that no primary password is assigned

Enabled — Indicates that a primary password is currently assigned

If you assign a primary password, the computer prompts you for the password each time you boot the computer

NOTICE: The password features provide a high level of security for the data in your computer. However, they are not foolproof. If your data requires more security, you should obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as data encryption programs or PC Cards with encryption features.

Admin Password (System Security)

Displays the current status of your administrator password and allows you to assign or change this password. Settings for this option are:

Disabled (the default) — Indicates that no administrator password is assigned.

Enabled — Indicates that an administrator password is currently assigned. To enable a

password, set the Admin Password option to Enabled, then enter a password when prompted. When prompted to verify the password, re-enter the password.

NOTE: When Admin Password is enabled, all System Setup options, except passwords, are locked out.

The administrator password is designed for use by system administrators and service

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technicians in corporate environments. If an administrator password is assigned, you can use it to access the computer even if you do not know the primary password.

Hard-disk drive password(s)

-System Primary

-System Modular Bay

Displays the current status of the primary hard-disk drive password and allows you to assign or change this password. You can set a primary password for the system.

Settings for this option are:

Disabled (the default) — Indicates that no password is assigned

Enabled — Indicates that a password is currently assigned

NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help.

Page 3 Options

See Figure 3 and Table 3 for an explanation of the options and settings on Page 3 of the System Setup Program.

Figure 3. Page 3 of the System Setup Program

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Table 3. Page 3 Options of the System Setup Program

Option Function

Battery Status

-Left Battery

-Right Battery

Displays the charge status of the installed batteries.

NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help.

Page 4 Options

See Figure 4 and Table 4 for an explanation of the options and settings on Page 4 of the System Setup program.

Figure 4. Page 4 of the System Setup Program

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Table 4. Page 4 Options of the System Setup Program

Option Function

Brightness Allows you to specify the brightness of the display when the computer is operating on battery

power. Use the left- and right-arrow keys to change the brightness of the display. When the computer is powered by a battery, the default is Minimum. If the computer is using AC power, the default is Maximum.

A change to the Brightness option takes effect immediately (rebooting is not required).

Power Management

Allows you to enable or disable power conservation features when the computer is being powered by a battery or AC power.

If you want to use any of the time-out options while using battery power, set the Battery option to Enabled. If you want to use the time-out options while using AC power, set the AC option to Enabled.

A change to the Power Management option takes effect immediately (rebooting is not required).

Display TimeOut

When the Power Management option is set to Enabled, you may set the Display Time-out option. This option determines how long the display is inactive before it turns off.

Settings for this option are Disabled, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1 hour.

A change in this option takes effect immediately.

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Disk Time-out When the Power Management option is set to Enabled, you may set the Disk Time-out

option. This option determines how long the hard-disk drive is inactive before it turns off.

Settings for this option are Disabled, 15 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1 hour.

A change in this option takes effect immediately.

Suspend Timeout

When the Power Management option is set to Enabled, you may set the Suspend Time-out option. This option determines how long the computer is inactive before it enters standby mode.

Settings for this option are Disabled, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1 hour.

A change in this option takes effect immediately.

S2D Time-out When the Power Management option is set to Enabled, you may set the S2D Time-out

option. This option determines how long the computer is inactive before it copies all system information to a file on the hard-disk drive. This setting has no effect when the computer is docked.

Settings for this option are Disabled, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, 8 hours, or 12 hours.

A change in this option takes effect immediately.

Smart CPU Mode

When the Power Management option is set to Enabled, you may set the Smart CPU Mode option. This option is key to good thermal performance.

When set to Disabled, the microprocessor runs at its highest speed and may impact thermal performance.

When set to Enabled, the computer changes the clock speed according to the needs of the application.

A change in this option takes effect immediately.

Display Close Lets you determine whether your computer enters standby mode when the display is closed or

whether only the display is turned off.

Suspend (the default) — Allows the computer to enter standby mode when the display is closed.

Active — Turns off the display, but does not put the computer into standby mode.

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Ring/Event Resume

Lets you determine if the computer exits standby mode when an installed modem card receives an incoming call. This feature must be supported by your modem PC Card and your operating system.

Settings for this option are:

Disabled (the default) — Resumes normal operation when the computer detects a modem ring

Enabled — Keeps the computer in standby mode when the computer detects a modem ring

NOTE: Dell recommends that you set Ring/Event Resume to Disabled when an external serial device, other than a modem, is connected to your computer.

In order for the Ring/Event Resume option to work properly, this feature must be enabled in the device driver for your modem PC Card. All drivers supplied by Dell with your computer are configured to allow the computer to resume normal operation when a modem receives an incoming call. If you use a PC Card that you did not receive from Dell, check the documentation to make sure this feature is set to Enabled.

A change to the Ring/Event Resume option takes effect immediately (rebooting is not required).

Alarm Resume Directs the computer to resume normal operation when it is in suspend mode and detects an

alarm from the RTC. Such alarms can be set through various application programs. In order for the alarms in these programs to work, the Alarm Resume option must be set to Enabled.

Settings for this option are:

Enabled (the default) — Resumes normal operation when the computer detects an alarm.

Disabled — Keeps the computer in suspend mode even if the computer detects an alarm.

A change to the Alarm Resume option takes effect immediately (rebooting is not required).

Wakeup On LAN Enables the computer to power up when triggered by a special LAN signal.

A change to the Wakeup On LAN option takes effect immediately.

NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help.

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System Setup Program: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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System Codes and Messages: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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System Codes and Messages: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

Error Messages

System Flash Codes

Error Messages

Your application programs, operating system, and the computer itself can identify problems and alert you to them. When this occurs, a message may appear on the computer's display or on an external monitor (if one is attached), or a flash code may be emitted.

If an error message appears on the display or external monitor, make a note of the message. For an explanation of the message and suggestions for correcting any errors, see Table 1. The messages are listed alphabetically.

NOTES: If the message is not listed in Table 1, see the documentation for the application program that was running at the time the message appeared and/or the operating system documentation for an explanation of the message and a recommended action.

When Table 1 suggests that you run a Dell Diagnostics test, refer to "Running the Dell Diagnostics" in Chapter 3 of the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide for instructions. When Table 1 suggests that you call Dell for technical assistance, refer to "Contacting Dell" in the system Help for instructions. When Table 1 suggests that you enable or disable a System Setup program option, refer to

System Setup Program.

Table 1. System Error Messages

Message Cause Action

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System Codes and Messages: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Auxiliary device failure

The touch pad, track stick, or external Personal System/2 (PS/2) mouse may be faulty.

If you are using an external mouse only, check the connection for a loose or improperly connected cable. If the problem persists, enable the Pointing Device option. For information, see

"Page 2 Options of the System Setup Program

." If the problem persists,

call Dell for technical assistance.

Bad command or file name

The command you entered does not exist or is not in the pathname you specified.

Make sure that you have typed the command correctly, placed spaces in the proper location, and used the correct pathname.

Cache disabled due to failure

The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed.

Call Dell for technical assistance.

CD-ROM drive controller failure 1

The CD-ROM drive does not respond to commands from the computer.

Turn off the computer, remove the drive, and boot the computer from a bootable diskette. Then turn off the computer again, reinstall the drive, and reboot the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Then run the CD-ROM Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

Data error

The diskette or hard-disk drive cannot read the data.

Run the appropriate utility to check the file structure of the diskette drive or hard-disk drive. See the documentation that came with your operating system.

Decreasing available memory

One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly seated.

Reseat the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.

Disk C: failed initialization

The hard-disk drive failed initialization.

Run the IDE Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

Diskette drive 0 seek failure

A cable may be loose, or the system configuration information may not match the hardware configuration.

Run the Diskette tests in the Dell Diagnostics. If error is not corrected, have the cables checked by an authorized service technician.

Diskette read failure

A cable may be loose, or the diskette may be faulty.

If the diskette-drive access indicator lights up, try a different diskette.

Diskette subsystem reset failed

The diskette drive controller may be faulty.

Run the Diskette tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

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System Codes and Messages: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Diskette write-protected

Because the diskette is writeprotected, the operation cannot be completed.

Slide the write-protect notch up.

Drive not ready

No diskette is in the diskette drive, or no hard-disk drive is in the media bay. The operation requires a diskette in the drive or a hard-disk drive in the bay before it can continue.

Put a diskette in the drive bay, or push the diskette all the way into the drive until the eject button pops out. Or, install a hard-disk drive in the media bay.

Error reading PCMCIA card

The computer cannot identify the PC Card.

Reseat the card or try another PC Card that you know works.

Extended memory size has changed

The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not match the memory installed in the computer.

Reboot the computer. If the error appears on the display again, call Dell for technical assistance.

Gate A20 failure

An installed memory module may be loose.

Reseat the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.

General failure

The operating system is unable to carry out the command.

This message is usually followed by specific information—for example, Printer out of

paper. Respond by taking the appropriate action.

Hard-disk drive configuration error

The computer cannot identify the drive type.

Turn off the computer, remove the drive, and boot the computer from a bootable diskette. Then turn off the computer, reinstall the drive, and reboot the computer. Run the IDE Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

Hard-disk drive controller failure 0

The hard-disk drive does not respond to commands from the computer.

Hard-disk drive failure

The hard-disk drive does not respond to commands from the computer.

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System Codes and Messages: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Hard-disk drive read failure

The hard-disk drive may be faulty. Turn off the computer, remove the

drive, and boot the computer from a bootable diskette. Then turn off the computer again, reinstall the drive, and reboot the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Then run the IDE Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics

Invalid configuration information-please run System Setup Program

The system configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. This message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed.

Correct the appropriate options in the System Setup program.

Keyboard clock line failure

A cable or connector may be loose, or the keyboard may be faulty.

Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards test in the Dell Diagnostics.

Keyboard controller failure

A cable or connector may be loose, or the keyboard may be faulty.

Reboot the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. If the problem persists, run the PC- AT Compatible Keyboards test in the Dell Diagnostics.

Keyboard data line failure

A cable or connector may be loose, or the keyboard may be faulty.

Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards test in the Dell Diagnostics.

Keyboard stuck key failure

If an external keyboard or keypad is being used, a cable or connector may be loose or the keyboard may be faulty. If the integrated keyboard is being used, the keyboard may be faulty. A key on the integrated keyboard or external keyboard may have been pressed while the computer was booting.

Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards test in the Dell Diagnostics.

Memory address line failure at address, read value expecting value

An installed memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.

Reseat the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.

Memory allocation error

The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the operating system, another application program, or a utility.

Turn off the computer, wait 30 seconds, and then restart it. Try to run the program again. If the problem persists, contact the software company.

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System Codes and Messages: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Memory data line failure at address, read value expecting value

An installed memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.

Reseat the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.

Memory double word logic failure at address, read value expecting value

An installed memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.

Reseat the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.

Memory odd/even logic failure at address, read value expecting value

An installed memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.

Reseat the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.

Memory write/read failure at address, read value expecting value

An installed memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.

Reseat the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.

No boot device available

The computer cannot find the diskette or hard-disk drive.

If the diskette drive is your boot device, make sure that there is a bootable diskette in the drive. If the hard-disk drive is your boot device, make sure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.

No boot sector on hard-disk drive

The operating system may be corrupted.

Reinstall your operating system. See the documentation that came with your operating system.

No timer tick interrupt

A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning.

Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

Non-system disk or disk error

The diskette in drive A or your hard-disk drive does not have a bootable operating system installed on it.

If you are trying to boot from the diskette, replace it with one that has a bootable operating system.

Not a boot diskette

There is no operating system on the diskette.

Boot the computer with a diskette that contains an operating system.

Optional ROM bad checksum

The optional ROM apparently failed.

Call Dell for technical assistance.

Sector not found

The operating system cannot locate a sector on the diskette or hard-disk drive. You probably have a bad sector or corrupted file allocation table ( FAT) on the diskette or hard-disk drive.

Run the appropriate utility to check the file structure on the diskette or hard-disk drive. If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the diskette or hard-disk drive.

Seek error

The operating system cannot find a specific track on the diskette or hard-disk drive.

If the error is on the diskette drive, try another diskette in the drive.

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System Codes and Messages: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Shutdown failure

A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning.

Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

Time-of-day clock lost power

Data stored in NVRAM has become corrupted.

Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to restore the data. To restore the data, press <Fn><F1> to enter the

System Setup program. Then

immediately exit it. If the message reappears, call Dell for technical assistance.

Time-of-day clock stopped

The reserve battery that supports the data stored in NVRAM may be read.

Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, call Dell for technical assistance.

Time-of-day not set-please run the System Setup program

The time or date stored in the System Setup program does not watch the system clock.

Correct the settings for the Date and Time options. (For instructions, see "

System Setup

Program

.")

Timer chip counter 2 failed

A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning.

Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

Unexpected interrupt in protected mode

The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or an installed memory module may be loose.

Run the System Memory tests and the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards test in the Dell Diagnostics.

Warning: Battery is critically low.

The battery is running out of charge.

Replace the battery, or connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Otherwise, activate

save-to-disk

suspend (S2D) mode or turn off the computer.

System Flash Codes

When errors that occur during the boot routine cannot be reported on the built-in display or on an external monitor (if attached), the keyboard status indicators (see Figure 1) may flash together in a pattern of lights (or flash code) that

identifies the problem. For example, one flash, followed by a second flash, and then a burst of three flashes (code 11-3) means that the computer was unable to read the data in nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM). This information is important to the Dell support staff if you need to call for technical assistance.

The keyboard status indicators flash briefly when the computer is turned on. The flash codes, if needed, occur after the boot routine.

Figure 1. Flash Code Indicators

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System Codes and Messages: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Scroll lock indicator

Capitals lock indicator

numbers lock indicator

When the computer emits a flash code, write it down on a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist and then look up its cause and meaning in Table 2. If you are unable to resolve the problem, use the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more

serious cause. See "Running Dell Diagnostics" in Chapter 3 of the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide. If you are still unable to resolve the problem, call Dell for technical assistance. See Chapter 5, "Getting Help," in the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide.

Table 2. Flash Codes and Corrective Actions

Message Cause Action

1-1-3 NVRAM write/read failure. Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell

Diagnostics. If the program does not load, call Dell for technical assistance.

1-1-4 ROM BIOS checksum failure. Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell

Diagnostics. If the program does not load, call Dell for technical assistance.

1-2-1 Programmable interval timer

failure.

Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics. If the program does not load, call Dell for technical assistance.

1-2-2 Direct memory access (DMA)

initialization failure.

Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics. If the program does not load, call Dell for technical assistance.

1-2-3 DMA page register write/read

failure.

Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics. If the program does not load, call Dell for technical assistance.

1-3-1 through 2-4-4

An installed memory module is not being properly identified or used.

Make sure that a memory module is installed in one of the memory module sockets on the system board. The computer will not function unless at least one memory module is installed.

3-1-1 Slave DMA register failure. Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell

Diagnostics. If the program does not load, call Dell for technical assistance.

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System Codes and Messages: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

3-1-2 Master DMA register failure. Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell

Diagnostics. If the program does not load, call Dell for technical assistance.

3-1-3 Master interrupt mask register

failure.

Call Dell for technical assistance.

3-1-4 Slave interrupt mask register

failure.

Call Dell for technical assistance.

3-2-4 Keyboard controller test failure. Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards test in the Dell

Diagnostics.

3-3-4 Display memory test failure. Run the VESA/VGA Interface test in the Dell Diagnostics. 3-4-1 Display initialization failure. Run the VESA/VGA Interface tests in the Dell Diagnostics. 3-4-2 Display retrace test failure. Run the VESA/VGA Interface tests in the Dell Diagnostics. 4-2-1 No timer tick. Call Dell for technical assistance. 4-2-2 Shutdown failure. Call Dell for technical assistance. 4-2-3 Gate A20 failure. Call Dell for technical assistance. 4-2-4 Unexpected interrupt in protected

mode.

Call Dell for technical assistance.

4-3-1 Memory failure above address

0FFFFh.

Run the System Memory tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

4-3-3 Timer chip counter 2 failure. Call Dell for technical assistance. 4-3-4 Time-of-day clock stopped. Call Dell for technical assistance. 4-4-1 Serial port failure. Run the Serial Ports tests in the Dell Diagnostics. 5-1-2 No usable memory. Run the System Memory tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

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Passwords and Security: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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Passwords and Security: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

About Passwords Using a Hard-Disk Drive Password

Using a Primary Password Physically Securing the Computer and the Hard-

Disk Drive

Using an Administrator Password Asset Tag Utility

About Passwords

A primary password prevents unauthorized access to the computer at start-up. An administrator password can be used in place of the primary password. A hard-disk drive password helps prevent the unauthorized access of data on the hard-disk drive, even when the device is placed into another computer.

NOTES: All three passwords are disabled when you receive your computer. You need to assign those passwords if you require password security for your computer. Some companies may assign any or all of these passwords before distributing the computer.

If you are using the Microsoft® Windows NT® operating system, use the System Setup program to assign all passwords.

NOTICE: The password features provide a high level of security for the data in your computer or hard-disk drive. However, they are not foolproof. If your data requires more security, you should obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as data encryption programs or PC Cards with encryption features.

If you forget any of your passwords, call Dell. For your protection, Dell’s technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to make sure that an unauthorized person is not trying to use the computer.

Using a Primary Password

The primary password allows you to protect the computer from unauthorized access.

After assigning a primary password, you must enter it each time you turn on your computer. The following message appears each time you turn on the computer:

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Passwords and Security: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Please type in the primary or administrator password and press <Enter>.

To continue, type your password and press <Enter>.

NOTE: If no password is entered within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous state.

If you have assigned an administrator password, you can use it instead of the primary password. The computer does not specifically prompt you for the administrator password.

NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also disabled.

Using an Administrator Password

The administrator password is designed to give system administrators or service technicians in large companies access to computers for repair or reconfiguration. The administrators or technicians can assign identical administrator passwords to groups of computers as they are unpacked and configured, leaving the primary password free to be assigned by the user.

When you set an administrator password, the Configure Setup option becomes available in the System Setup program. The Configure Setup option allows you to restrict access to the System Setup program in the same way a system password restricts access to the system.

The administrator password can be used in place of the primary password. Whenever you are prompted to enter the primary password, you can enter the administrator password instead.

NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the system, but it does not provide access to the hard-disk drive when it is protected by a password.

If you forget the primary password and do not have an administrator password assigned, or if you have both a primary and an administrator password assigned but forget them both, call Dell.

NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also disabled.

Using a Hard-Disk Drive Password

The hard-disk drive password helps protect the data on your hard-disk drive from unauthorized access. You can also assign a password for the modular hard-disk drive (if one is being used) that can be the same as or different from the password for the primary hard-disk drive.

NOTE: Only hard-disk drives purchased from Dell for use with your Dell computer support the hard-disk drive password option.

After assigning a hard-disk drive password, you must enter it each time you turn on the computer and each time you

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Passwords and Security: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

resume normal operation from standby mode.

If the hard-disk drive password is enabled, the following message appears each time you turn on the computer:

Please type in the hard-disk drive password and press <Enter>.

To continue, enter the hard-disk drive password. Press <Esc> to return the computer to its previous state—standby mode.

NOTE: If no password is entered within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous state.

If you enter the wrong password, the following message appears:

Invalid password [Press Enter to retry]

If the correct password is not entered in three attempts, the computer tries to boot from another bootable device if the Boot First device option in the System Setup program is set to allow it. If the Boot First device option is not set to allow booting from another device, the computer returns to the state it was in when you turned it on—standby mode.

NOTES: If the hard-disk drive password, the modular hard-disk drive password, and the primary password are the same, you are prompted only for the primary password. If the hard-disk drive password is different from the primary password, you are prompted for both. Two different passwords provide greater security.

The administrator password provides access to the system, but it does not provide access to the hard-disk drive when it is protected by a password.

Physically Securing the Computer and the Hard-Disk Drive

To prevent unauthorized removal of the computer, you can use a security cable to attach the computer to an immovable object. Your computer has two security cable slots: One security cable slot is located between the speaker and the hard-disk drive. (See Figure 1 in "Technical Overview.") The other security cable slot is located

between the TV-out S-video connector and the fan's air intake. (See

Figure 2 in "Technical Overview.")

Description of Security Cable Slots

The security cable slots allow you to attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. Antitheft devices for portable computers usually include a segment of metal-stranded cable with an attached locking device and associated key.

When your computer is installed in an advanced port replicator (APR), use the security cable slot located between the TV-out S-video connector and the fan's air intake to secure your computer.

You can use either security cable slot to secure your computer when it is not docked to an APR. However, to lock your computer and prevent unauthorized removal of the hard-disk drive, insert the locking device into the security cable slot located between the hard-disk drive and the speaker, and lock the device with its associated key.

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Passwords and Security: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Basic Instructions for Using Security Cable Slots

To prevent unauthorized removal of your computer, loop the cable around an immovable object, insert the locking device into either of the security cable slots, and lock the device. See Figure 1 for an example of how to secure your

computer. Complete instructions for installing this kind of antitheft device are usually included with the device.

Figure 1. Securing the Computer

NOTE: Antitheft devices are of differing designs. Before purchasing such a device, make sure that it will work with the security cable slot in your computer.

Asset Tag Utility

Dell has installed the Asset Tag utility on your computer. The Asset Tag utility allows you to enter an asset tag number that you or your company assigns to the computer. The default System Setup screens do not show the asset tag number unless you enter one by using this utility.

You can also use the Asset Tag utility to enter an owner tag that appears in the system log-on screen and with the primary password prompt.

Viewing Existing Asset Tag and Service Numbers

To view existing asset tag and service tag numbers, perform the following steps:

1. Click the Start button, point to Programs, and click MS-DOS Prompt.

2. Type cd c:\Dell\Util and press <Enter>.

3. Type asset and press <Enter>.

Assigning an Asset Tag Number

An asset tag number can have up to ten characters; any combination of characters excluding spaces is valid. To assign or change an asset tag number, perform the following steps:

1. Click the Start button, point to Programs, and click MS-DOS Prompt.

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Passwords and Security: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

2. Type CD c:\Dell\Util and press <Enter>.

3. Type asset and a space followed by the new number, and press <Enter>.

For example, type the following command line and press <Enter>:

asset 1234$ABCD&

4. When the system prompts you to verify the asset tag number, type y and press <Enter>. The system displays the new or modified asset tag number and the service tag number.

Deleting an Asset Tag Number

To delete the asset tag number without assigning a new one, perform the following steps:

1. Click the Start button, point to Programs, and click MS-DOS Prompt.

2. Type CD c:\Dell\Util and press <Enter>.

3. Type asset /d and press <Enter>.

Assigning an Owner Tag

An owner tag can have up to 48 characters; any combination of letters, numbers, and spaces is valid. To assign an owner tag, perform the following steps:

1. Click the Start button, point to Programs, and click MS-DOS Prompt.

2. Type CD c:\Dell\Util and press <Enter>.

3. Type asset /o and a space followed by the new owner tag, and press <Enter>.

For example, type the following command line and press <Enter>:

asset /o ABC Company

4. When the system prompts you to verify the owner tag, type y and press <Enter>. The system displays the new owner tag.

Deleting an Owner Tag

To delete the owner tag without assigning a new one, perform the following steps:

1. Click the Start button, point to Programs, and click MS-DOS Prompt.

2. Type CD c:\Dell\Util and press <Enter>.

3. Type asset /o /d and press <Enter>.

NOTE: For security, you cannot set, change, or delete the owner tag if the primary or administrator password is set.

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Passwords and Security: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Table 1 lists the command-line options you can use with the Asset Tag utility. To use one of these options, open an

MS-DOS® prompt, type asset and a space followed by the option, and then press <Enter>.

Table 1. Asset Tag Utility Command-Line Options

Asset Tag Option Description

/d Deletes the asset tag number /o <tag> Specifies a new owner tag /o /d Deletes the owner tag /? Displays the Asset Tag utility help screen

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Ports and Connectors: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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Ports and Connectors: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

About the I/O Connectors USB Connector

Audio Connectors PS/2 Connector

Video Connector Serial Port Connector

Parallel Port Connector AC Power Connector

Docking Connector Infrared Port

About the I/O Connectors

You can connect external devices to the input/output (I/O) connectors. The computer's basic input/output system (BIOS) detects the presence of external devices when you boot (start) or reboot your computer. Figure 1 shows the

connectors on the back of your computer.

NOTICE: When disconnecting external devices from the back of the computer, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before you disconnect a device to avoid possible damage to the system board.

Figure 1. I/O Connectors

Video connector

Mini-Deutsche Industrie Norm (DIN) PS/2 connector

Parallel port connector

Serial port connector

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Ports and Connectors: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Docking connector

AC power connector

USB connector

Infrared port

NOTES: Some external devices require you to load software called device drivers into system memory before the devices will work. These device drivers help your computer recognize the external device and direct its operation. Instructions for installing this software are usually included in the upgrade kits.

The advanced port replicator (APR) has the same I/O connectors as your computer. In addition, the APR has a second Personal System/2 (PS/2) connector, a second Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector, and an Ethernet network connector.

Audio Connectors

You can connect audio devices such as speakers, microphones, headphones, and record/playback devices to your computer. The following information tells you how to connect the cables. Figure 2 shows the locations of the audio

connectors and the TV-out S-video connector.

● Connect the audio cable from a microphone to the microphone-in connector.

● Connect the audio cable from the speakers to the line-out connector.

● Connect the line-out cable from a record/playback device to the line-in connector. Cassette players, CD

players, radios, stereo systems, and tape players are all record/playback devices.

● Connect the TV-out S-video I/O cable from a record/playback device to the TV-out S-video connector. VCRs

and video cameras are record/playback devices.

Figure 2. Connecting Audio and S-Video Devices

Microphone-in connector

Line-out connector

Line-in connector

TV-out S-video connector

TV-Out S-Video Connector

You can connect a television with an S-video connector to your computer. Figure 2 shows the location of the TV-out S-video connector on your computer.

To connect the cables, follow these guidelines:

● If your television uses an S-video cable for video input, connect one end of that cable directly to your

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Ports and Connectors: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

computer's TV-out S-video connector and connect the other end into your television's S-video connector. Connecting the S-video cable that came with your television to the television's S-video connector and to the TV-out S-video connector on your computer allows your computer to output video information to your television.

● If your television uses a composite video cable for video input, you need both the composite TV-out adapter

cable that came with your computer and the composite video cable that came with your television. Connecting these cables together, and then connecting them to your television's composite video-in connector and your computer's TV-out S-video connector, allows your computer to output video information to your television.

To connect a television that has a composite video-in connector to your computer's TV-out S-video connector, perform the following steps:

1. Connect the composite TV-out adapter cable that came with your computer to your computer's TV-out S-video connector.

2. Connect the other end of the composite TV-out adapter cable to your television's composite video cable.

3. Connect the composite video cable to your television's composite video connector.

Video

Use the 15-hole video connector to attach an external monitor to the computer.

Connecting an External Monitor

The computer's video connector is used to connect an external monitor to the computer. To attach an external monitor, perform the following steps.

NOTICE: Do not place the monitor directly on top of your portable computer, even if it is closed. Doing so can crack the computer case, the display, or both.

1. Make sure that the external monitor is turned off. Set the monitor on a monitor stand, desk top, or other level surface near your computer.

2. Connect the external monitor's video cable to the computer.

Plug the video cable connector into the matching video connector on the back of the computer, as shown in Figure 3. If the video cable is not permanently attached to the monitor, connect it to the

monitor also.

Figure 3. Connecting an External Monitor

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Ports and Connectors: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Be sure to tighten all the screws on the video cable connector(s) to eliminate radio frequency interference (RFI).

3. Connect your external monitor to a grounded electrical outlet.

Plug the three-prong connector on one end of the monitor's power cable into a grounded power strip or some other grounded power source. If the cable is not permanently attached to the monitor, connect it to the monitor also.

You can also connect an external monitor to the APR.

NOTE: If you are using the Microsoft® Windows® 98 operating system, you can use an external monitor as an extension of your display. For more information, see the Windows 98 documentation or "

Extended Desktop."

Using an External Monitor

When an external monitor is connected to the computer, the video image automatically appears on the external monitor's screen when you boot your computer.

To toggle the video image between the display, an external monitor, or both simultaneously, press <Fn><F8> on the keyboard. Press <Scroll Lock><F8> on an external keyboard if the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

If the external monitor is turned off when you boot your computer, the computer still sends the video image to the external monitor. In this case, you will not see an image on either the computer's display or the external monitor. To see an image, turn on the external monitor or switch the video image to the computer’s display by pressing <Fn><F8> on the keyboard or <Scroll Lock><F8> on an external keyboard if the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program.

Parallel Port Connector

Use the 25-hole parallel port connector to attach a parallel device to the computer. The parallel port connector is used primarily for printers. You can also connect the diskette drive to the parallel port connector.

The parallel port sends and receives data in parallel format, where 8 data bits (one byte) are sent simultaneously over 8 separate lines. The port can be configured as a unidirectional (output-only) port for devices such as a printer or as a bidirectional port for devices such as a network adapter.

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Ports and Connectors: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

The computer's integrated parallel port is designated as LPT1. The Microsoft Windows 98 operating systems automatically recognize the parallel device and configure it correctly. The parallel port can also be configured for compatibility with the PS/2 standard.

Docking Connector

The docking connector supports Dell's APR docking solution.

USB Connector

The USB connector supports the use of a USB hub device to attach multiple devices. USB devices are typically lowspeed peripherals such as mice, keyboards, printers, and computer speakers. The APR docking solution has two USB connectors.

NOTE: If you are using a USB external keyboard, do not enter the System Setup program by using a keyboard command on the external keyboard. Instead, press <Fn><F1> on the computer's keyboard.

PS/2 Connector

Use the mini-Deutsche Industrie Norm (DIN) PS/2 connector to attach PS/2-compatible devices such as a mouse, keyboard, or external numeric keypad.

NOTE: If the computer is in standby mode when you attach a mouse, you can use the mouse when the computer resumes normal operation. Otherwise, you must reboot the computer to use the mouse. While the mouse is attached to the computer, the DualPoint™ integrated pointing device is disabled.

Connecting an External Mouse

You can attach a PS/2-compatible mouse to the computer's mini-DIN mouse connector, as shown in Figure 4.

Figure 4. Connecting an External Mouse

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Ports and Connectors: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

NOTE: If the computer is in standby mode or save-to-disk-suspend (S2D) mode when you attach an external mouse, the device is recognized immediately by the computer when it resumes normal operation. However, programs that were already running may need to be restarted in order to recognize the mouse.

When you attach a PS/2 mouse to the computer, the DualPoint integrated pointing device is automatically disabled. If you disconnect the mouse, you must shut down the computer or enter standby mode and then resume from it before the DualPoint integrated pointing device is operational. If you do not do this, the DualPoint integrated pointing device resumes operation in standard PS/2 mode, which means that many of the configuration features are disabled.

If you are using a PS/2-compatible mouse that is not made by Microsoft and the mouse does not work properly, reboot the computer. If the mouse still does not work, install the drivers from the diskette that came with the mouse and reboot the computer.

You can also connect an external mouse to the APR.

Connecting an External Keyboard

You can attach a PS/2-compatible external 101- or 102-key keyboard to the computer's mini-DIN connector, as shown in Figure 5.

Figure 5. Connecting an External Keyboard

NOTE: If the computer is in standby mode or save-to-disk suspend (S2D) mode when you attach an external keyboard, the device is recognized immediately by the computer when it resumes normal operation.

You can use the computer's keyboard and an external keyboard at the same time. When you attach a keyboard to the computer, the embedded numeric keypad is automatically disabled.

On an external keyboard, the <Scroll Lock> key acts the same way as the <Fn> key on the computer’s keyboard (if the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program).

You can also connect an external keyboard to the APR.

Connecting an External Keypad

You can attach a PS/2-compatible external numeric keypad to the computer's mini-DIN keypad connector.

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Ports and Connectors: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

NOTE: If the computer is in standby mode or S2D mode when you attach an external keypad, the device is recognized immediately by the computer when it resumes normal operation.

When you attach a numeric keypad to the computer, the embedded numeric keypad is automatically disabled. The indicators on the integrated keyboard track the operation of an external numeric keypad.

You can also connect an external keypad to the APR.

Serial Port Connector

To attach a serial device to the computer, use the 9-pin serial port connector.

The serial port passes data in serial format (one bit at a time over one line). This port supports a variety of devices that require serial data transmission, including a serial mouse, serial printer, plotter, or external modem.

AC Power Connector

Use the AC power connector to attach the AC adapter to the computer. The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer.

You can connect the AC adapter with your computer either turned on or off.

The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors vary among countries. Before using AC power in a foreign country, you may need to obtain a new power cable designed for use in that country.

Infrared Port

The computer’s infrared (IR) port is compatible with Infrared Data Association (IrDA) 1.1 (Fast IR) and 1.0 (Slow IR) standards. An infrared port lets you transfer files from your computer to another infrared-compatible device without using cable connections. An infrared data stream is transmitted through a lens in the computer up to a distance of 1 meter (m) (3.3 feet [ft]). This light is received by a compatible computer, printer, mouse, or remote control.

The default address of the infrared port is COM3. To avoid resource conflicts with other devices, remap the address of the infrared port.

When the computer is being used with the APR docking solution, the infrared port on the computer is automatically disabled.

Point the computer’s infrared port directly at the compatible device’s infrared port. Infrared devices transmit data in a 30-degree cone of infrared light. Start the data communications software on both devices, and then begin to transfer files. Read the documentation that came with your compatible device to make sure that you operate it correctly.

For more information about using an infrared device, see the documentation that came with your operating system. The Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 operating system does not support the use of infrared devices.

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NOTES: Make sure that no books, papers, or other objects come between the two infrared devices and that the two devices are within the 30-degree cone.

If the infrared device does not work, the computer and device may be misaligned. Move the device and computer to bring them into the 30-degree cone.

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Power Sources: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

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Power Sources: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference

AC Adapter

Batteries

AC Adapter

Using the AC Adapter

The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. The AC adapter kit includes two cables: the AC adapter cable and an AC power cable.

You can connect the AC adapter with your computer either turned on or off.

The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors vary among countries. Before you use AC power in a foreign country, you may need to obtain a new power cable designed for use in that country.

If the computer is docked to an advanced port replicator (APR), you can connect the AC adapter either to the computer or to the APR.

NOTE: If you are running your computer on AC power with a battery installed, the AC adapter charges the battery (if needed) and then maintains the battery's charge.

NOTICE: The AC adapter should be in a ventilated area, such as on a desk top or on the floor, when used to power the computer or charge the battery. Do not use the AC adapter in a poorly ventilated environment, such as inside a carrying case.

Connecting the AC Adapter

To connect the AC adapter, perform the following steps:

1. Connect the AC adapter power cable to the AC adapter (see Figure 1).

2. Plug the AC adapter power cable into an electrical outlet.

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Power Sources: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

3. Plug the AC adapter cable into the AC adapter connector on the computer.

Figure 1. Connecting the AC Adapter

AC adapter power cable

AC adapter

AC adapter cable

Turning the Computer On

To turn on the computer, press the power button.

NOTE: If your computer's operating system is "locked up"—that is, it does not respond to commands—press and hold down the power button for at least 5 seconds to shut it off.

Batteries

Your computer’s lithium-ion battery provides power when an electrical outlet is not available. A battery in the battery bay is standard with the computer. lithium-ion batteries are longer lived than conventional batteries and do not require replacement as often. To double battery life, install a second battery in the media bay. Lithium-ion batteries do not have the "memory effect" that is exhibited by nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and nickel-cadmium (NiCD) batteries. You do not need to drain a lithium-ion battery completely before recharging it. A lithium-ion battery will not "forget" at which point it is fully charged. NiMH and NiCD batteries may not charge fully if they are partially drained then recharged.

The lithium-ion technology used in your computer’s battery is significantly less hazardous to the environment than the lithium metal technology used in some other batteries (such as watch batteries). Spent batteries should not be placed with common household waste products. Contact local authorities for the location of a chemical waste collection program nearest you.

Keep the following information in mind when you are running your computer from the battery:

● You can expect 3 to 5 hours of battery life with a single fully charged battery and 6 to 10 hours of battery life

with two fully charged batteries. Actual performance varies, depending on which power management features are enabled and which application programs are being used.

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Power Sources: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

● When two batteries are installed, the computer draws power first from the battery in the media bay. The AC

adapter first charges the battery in the battery bay.

● The integrated charge gauge lets you check a battery’s charge before you insert it into the computer.

● The battery’s self-test capability alerts you to battery conditions such as low charge.

● There is no battery memory effect with lithium-ion batteries—you can charge the battery whenever you like

without fear of reducing its charge capacity.

● A battery has a life span of up to 500 full charges and 2000 partial charges, provided it is charged at normal

room temperature.

Charging a Hot Battery

If your battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot environment, take note of the following precautions:

● A hot battery will not charge when you connect the AC adapter to the computer. This safety feature is

important because charging a hot battery shortens the battery’s life span and may damage the battery and the computer.

● The battery is too hot to start charging if the battery indicator flashes alternately green and amber. If this

occurs, disconnect the computer from its electrical outlet and allow it and the battery to return to room temperature. Reconnect the computer to the electrical outlet and continue charging the battery.

● If the computer is not allowed to return to room temperature, the battery stops charging before it reaches its full

capacity.

Battery Usage

The battery is partially charged when you receive it. Dell recommends that you charge your battery to full capacity before using it to power the computer.

If you are powering the computer from a battery, try to conserve battery power. A number of factors affect battery operating time:

● Power conservation features that you use

● Type of display and microprocessor your computer has

● Use of the CD-ROM drive, DVD-ROM drive, or SuperDisk LS-120 drive module

● Number and type of PC Cards and other external devices you use

● Kinds of application programs you run

● Capacity of the memory modules you install (the higher the capacity, the more power used)

● Use of the infrared port

When you activate standby mode, the computer can run on battery power for approximately one week (if the battery was fully charged before activating standby mode).

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If you are going to store the computer, disconnect all peripheral devices and turn off the computer. Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery will drain when not in use during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully before you attempt to run your computer from battery power.

Installing a Battery in the Battery Bay

NOTICE: To avoid data loss, do not replace a battery while the computer is turned on unless the computer is connected to an electrical outlet or a second battery is installed.

To install a battery in the battery bay, perform the following steps (see Figure 2).

NOTES: You can also install a battery in the media bay. If necessary, print these instructions for reference before proceeding.

Figure 2. Installing a Battery

1. Save your work and close all open files and application programs.

2. If the computer is docked, undock it.

3. If the battery bay contains a battery and your system is off, go to step 5.

4. If the only battery in the computer is in the battery bay and that is the battery you want to replace, preserve

your data in one of these ways, and then proceed to step 5:

● Use the standby mode.

Place the computer in standby mode by pressing <Fn><Esc> (or <Scroll Lock><Esc> on an external keyboard if the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program).

● Use the save-to-disk suspend (S2D) mode.

Place the computer in S2D mode by pressing <Fn><a> (or <Fn><q> on a French keyboard). When the green power indicator turns off, continue.

If you have your AC adapter connected to your computer, go to step 5.

5. Remove the battery from the battery bay.

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DELL Inspiron 3700 Service Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Conventions: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Technical Overview: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Using the Computer: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft Windows 98: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Utilities and Drivers for Microsoft Windows NT: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Technical Specifications: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

System Setup Program: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

System Codes and Messages: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Passwords and Security: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Ports and Connectors: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference

Power Sources: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference