Dell Inspiron PP07L User manual

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Dell™ Inspiron™ 5100 and 5150

Owner’s Manual

Model PP07L and PP08L

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Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

computer.

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

how to avoid the problem.

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

injury, or death.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

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

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, AccessDirect, UltraSharp, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension,

OptiPlex, Latitude, Dell TrueMobile, and DellNet are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft

Corporation; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Computer Corporation under license.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Computer Corporation disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Model PP07L and PP08L

July 2003 P/N M1708 Rev. A02

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

General

Power

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

Air Travel

EMC Instructions

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

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

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

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

When Using Your Computer

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

Ergonomic Computing Habits

When Working Inside Your Computer

Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Battery Disposal

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

1 A Tour of Your Computer

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

Left Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

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

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

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

2 Setting Up Your Computer

Adjusting Font and Icon Sizes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Adjusting Font Sizes

Adjusting Icon Sizes

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

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

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

Contents 3

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

Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

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

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

Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

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

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

E-Mail Problems

Transferring Information to a New Computer . . . . . . . . . . 36

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Printer Problems

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

Turning Off Your Computer

3 Using a Battery

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

Checking the Battery Charge

Power Meter

Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4 Contents

Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Removing a Battery

Installing a Battery

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

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

Storing a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Battery and Power Problems

If the battery is not charging

If battery life is short

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

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

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

4 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

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

Reprogramming the Button

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Keyboard Shortcuts

System Functions

Display Functions

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

Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Speaker Functions

Microsoft

Touch Pad

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

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

Customizing the Touch Pad

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

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

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

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

External Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Unexpected Characters

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

5 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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

CD or DVD Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

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

If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray 56

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

If the CD-RW or DVD+RW drive stops writing

. . . . . . . . . 56

. . . . . . 56

Contents 5

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

If you have a problem with integrated speakers

If you have a problem with external speakers

. . . . . . . . . 57

. . . . . . . . . . 57

Connecting a Television to the Computer

S-Video Connection

Composite Video Connection

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

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

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

Enabling the Display Settings for a Television . . . . . . . . . 62

6 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

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

Network Setup Wizard

Network Problems

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

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

Connecting to Wireless Local Area Networks . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Determining Your Network Type

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

Connecting to a Network in Windows XP . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Finalizing Your Network Connection (Security Settings)

7 Solving Problems

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

. . . . 71

6 Contents

Accessing Help

Error Messages

Video and Display Problems

If the display is blank

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

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

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

If the display is difficult to read

If only part of the display is readable

Scanner Problems

Drive Problems

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

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

If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive

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

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

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

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

PC Card Problems

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

General Program Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

A program crashes

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

A program stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Error messages appear

Resolving Other Technical Problems

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

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

If Your Computer Gets Wet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

Drivers

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

What Is a Driver?

Identifying Drivers

Reinstalling Drivers

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

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

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

Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows XP . . . . . . . . . 91

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities . . . . . . . 92

Using System Restore

Creating a Restore Point

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

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

. . . . . . 93

Undoing the Last System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Before You Reinstall

Reinstalling Windows XP

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

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

8 Adding and Replacing Parts

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

Memory

Modem and Mini PCI Card

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

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

Adding a Modem

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

Contents 7

Adding a Mini PCI Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Hard Drive

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

CD or DVD Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Keyboard

9 Appendix

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

Using the System Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Overview

Viewing the System Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

System Setup Screens

Commonly Used Options

System and Battery Performance Optimization

System Performance Overview

Optimizing Power Consumption and Battery Charge Time

Variable Speed Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals

Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals . . . . . . 126

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . 124

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. . . 124

. . . . . 125

8 Contents

Contacting Dell

Regulatory Notices

NOM Information (Mexico Only)

Limited Warranties and Return Policy

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

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

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

Limited Warranty for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (U.S. Only) 145

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

. . . . . . . . . . 148

Limited Warranty Terms for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (Canada Only)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

"Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (Canada Only) . . . . . . . . 151

Dell Software and Peripherals (Canada Only)

. . . . . . . . . 152

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

Caribbean Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Intel

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

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

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Contents 9

10 Contents

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

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

General

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CAUTION: Safety Instructions 11

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

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

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

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

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

• If your computer has both a modem RJ-11 connector and a network RJ-45 connector, which look alike, make sure you insert the telephone cable into the RJ-11 connector, not the RJ-45 connector.

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

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

Power

(continued)

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

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

• To remove the computer from all power sources, turn the computer off, disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet, and remove any battery installed in the battery bay or module bay.

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

12 CAUTION: Safety Instructions

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

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

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

(continued)

Battery

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

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

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

• Keep the battery away from children.

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

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

CAUTION: Safety Instructions 13

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

Air Travel

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

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

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

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EMC Instructions

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

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

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

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

(continued)

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

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

14 CAUTION: Safety Instructions

Wash your hands after handling the cord.

When Using Your Computer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When Using Your Computer 15

When Using Your Computer

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

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

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Ergonomic Computing Habits

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

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

time may result in eye strain.

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

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

When Working Inside Your Computer

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

(continued)

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

installing memory modules, a Mini PCI card, or a modem.

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

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

Shut down your computer and turn off any attached devices.

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

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

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

the module bay.

16 When Using Your Computer

When Using Your Computer

4 Ground yourself by touching any unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.

While you work, periodically touch the unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components.

(continued)

Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

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

As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch any unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.

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

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

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

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

Battery Disposal

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

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

When Using Your Computer 17

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18 When Using Your Computer

SECTION 1

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Front View

Dell™ AccessDirect™ button

display latch

display

power button

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touch pad

touch pad buttons

DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed.

ISPLAY — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" in the Tel l Me How

help file. To access the help file, see page 80. For information about adjusting font and icon sizes, see page 32.

speaker

keyboard status lights

keyboard

speaker

device status lights

20 A Tour of Your Computer

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when Caps Lock is enabled.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

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

key . For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see page 49.

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

shortcuts. For more information, see page 50.

A Tour of Your Computer 21

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

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

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

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

the light is flashing.

Blinks to indicate battery charge status.

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

– Solid green: The battery is charging.

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

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

OUCH PAD BUTTONS — Touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse. See page 51 for

more information.

OUCH PAD — The touch pad and touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse. See

page 51 for more information.

OWER BUTTON — Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power

management mode. For more information, see "Power Management" in the Te l l M e H ow help file. To access the help file, see page 80.

22 A Tour of Your Computer

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

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

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

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

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

Left Side View

PC Card slot

audio connectors (2) CD or DVD drive

PC CARD SLOT — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter. For more information, see "Using PC Cards" in the Tel l M e H ow help file. To access the help file, see page 80.

A Tour of Your Computer 23

AUDIO CONNECTORS

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

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

Right Side View

BATTERY/BATTERY BAY — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without

connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. See page 41.

24 A Tour of Your Computer

security cable slot

air vents

battery/battery bay modem connector

MODEM CONNECTOR

Connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

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

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

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air

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

NOTE: The fan runs constantly, and fan speed may vary depending on usage. Fan noise is

normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.

ECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the

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

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

slot.

A Tour of Your Computer 25

Back View

NOTE: The connector for your AC adapter on your computer may look different than the

connector in the following graphic.

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

prevents the computer from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air

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

NOTE: The fan runs constantly, and fan speed may vary depending on usage. Fan noise is

normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.

DAPTER CONNECTOR — Attach an AC adapter to the computer.

AC A

NOTE: The AC adapter in the following graphic may not look exactly like the AC adapter that

shipped with your computer.

AC adapter connector

air vents

S-video TV-out connector

USB connectors (2)

video connector

network connector

IEEE 1394 connector

26 A Tour of Your Computer

AC adapter

AC adapter connector

NOTICE: Use only the AC adapter that came with your computer.

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

CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However,

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

CAUTION: Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a desk top or on the

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

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

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

IDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

S-V

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

A Tour of Your Computer 27

USB CONNECTORS

VIDEO CONNECTOR

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IEEE 1394 CONNECTOR — Use to attach devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras.

ETWORK CONNECTOR

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

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

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

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

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

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

28 A Tour of Your Computer

Bottom View

modem/Mini PCI card cover

hard drive

battery/battery bay

air vent

battery latch release

memory module cover

MODEM/MINI PCI CARD COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the modem and Mini PCI card. See page 102.

ATTERY/BATTERY BAY — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without

connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. See page 41.

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

prevents the computer from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air

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

NOTE: The fan runs constantly, and fan speed may vary depending on usage. Fan noise is

normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.

A Tour of Your Computer 29

BATTERY LATCH RELEASE — Releases the battery. See page 44 for instructions.

EMORY MODULE COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the memory module(s) and

the CD or DVD drive latch release. See page 100.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

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30 A Tour of Your Computer

SECTION 2

Setting Up Your Computer

Adjusting Font and Icon Sizes

Dell™ QuickSet Features

Connecting to the Internet

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

E-Mail Problems

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Problems

Power Protection Devices

Turning Off Your Computer

Adjusting Font and Icon Sizes

Adjusting Font Sizes

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 Click Appearance and Themes.

3 Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Display.

4 In the Display Properties window, click the Appearance tab.

5 Under Font size:, click Large in the drop-down menu.

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6 Click OK.

Adjusting Icon Sizes

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 Click Appearance and Themes.

3 Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Display.

4 In the Display Properties window, click the Appearance tab and click Effects.

5 In the Effects window, click to check Use large icons.

6 Click OK in the Effects window, and click OK in the Display Properties window.

Dell™ QuickSet Features

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

Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Click the icon to perform the following tasks:

• Adjust power management settings using the Power Management Wizard.

• Adjust the size of icons and toolbars.

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

• Turn presentation mode on or off.

32 Setting Up Your Computer

Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

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

Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon

Right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:

• Enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen.

• Enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.

• Turn wireless activity on or off.

•View Dell QuickSet Help.

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

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

Help.

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

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

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

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Computer 33

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an AOL or MSN connection:

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

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

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

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

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

desktop.

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2 Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer.

The New Connection Wizard appears.

3 Click Connect to the Internet.

4 In the next window, click the appropriate option:

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

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

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

5 Click Next.

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

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

Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and

then click Next.

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

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "Modem and Internet Connection Problems." If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

34 Setting Up Your Computer

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

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

a digital telephone network damages the modem.

NOTICE: Modem and network connectors look similar. Do not plug a telephone line into the

network connector.

NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your modem is functioning

properly. If you are sure that your modem is working properly and you still experience problems, contact your ISP.

HECK THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and

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

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

ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — If you have other

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

and then click Edit....

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

the proper code as listed in your telephone directory.

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

ERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

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

Setting Up Your Computer 35

5 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem

is communicating with Windows.

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

E-Mail Problems

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — With the Outlook Express

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

Transferring Information to a New Computer

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

•E-mails

• Toolbar settings

• Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

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

To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:

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

click Files and Settings Tra nsf er Wiz a rd .

2 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.

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

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

Windows XP CD and click Next.

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

computer. Do not click Next at this time.

To copy data from the old computer:

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

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

36 Setting Up Your Computer

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

4 On the Files and Settings Tra nsf er W iza rd welcome screen, click Next.

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

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

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

and click Next.

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

8 Click Finish.

To transfer data to the new computer:

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

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

transferring your settings and files and click Next.

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

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

3 Click Finished and restart the new computer.

Setting Up a Printer

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

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

• Obtain and install updated drivers.

• Connect the printer to the computer.

• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.

• Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance.

Printer Cable

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

Setting Up Your Computer 37

Connecting a USB Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.

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

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

printer.

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

The USB connectors fit only one way.

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Printer Problems

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS — Ensure that the printer cable is properly

connected to the computer (see page 38).

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with

another device, such as a lamp.

NSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON — See the documentation supplied with the

printer.

USB connector on computer

USB printer cable

USB connector on printer

VERIFY THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE PRINTER —

1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel.

38 Setting Up Your Computer

3 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 4 Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer model is listed, right-click the printer

icon.

5 Click Properties and click the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is

correct.

EINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See page 89.

Power Protection Devices

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

•Surge protectors

• Line conditioners

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Surge Protectors

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

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

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

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

NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the network

cable from the network wall jack during electrical storms.

Line Conditioners

NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.

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

Setting Up Your Computer 39

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

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

file damage.

NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS.

Connect other devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection.

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

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Turning Off Your Computer

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

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

NOTE: As an alternative to turning off your computer, you can set your computer to enter

standby or hibernate mode. For more information, see the help file, see page 80.

1 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then

click Turn Off Computer.

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

Tell M e How

help file. To access the

The computer turns off after the shutdown process finishes.

40 Setting Up Your Computer

SECTION 3

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Charging the Battery

Removing a Battery

Installing a Battery

Storing a Battery

Battery and Power Problems

Battery Performance

NOTE: Batteries for portable computers are covered only during the initial one-year period of

the limited warranty for your computer. For more information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see page 145.

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

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.

Operating time may be significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:

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NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing

to a CD.

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

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

• Using high-brightness display settings.

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

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode. See "Power Management" in the Te l l M e H o w help file for more information. To access the help file, see page 80.

You can set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low. You can also set power modes to optimize power consumption and battery charge time. See page 124 for additional information.

CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or

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

CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery

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

CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn.

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

42 Using a Battery

Checking the Battery Charge

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

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

Power Meter

The Windows power meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the power

meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar. For more information on the Power Meter

tab, see "Power Management" in the Tel l M e Ho w help file. To access the help file, see page 80.

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

Low-Battery Warning

NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery

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

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

Charging the Battery

NOTE: The AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately 3 hours with

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

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

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

Using a Battery 43

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

NOTE: You can leave the battery in the computer as long as you like. The battery internal

circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.

For more information on resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Management" in the Tel l M e H o w help file. To access the help file, see page 80.

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CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, disconnect the modem from the

telephone wall jack.

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

2 Slide and hold the battery latch.

3 Remove the battery.

battery

Removing a Battery

battery latch

44 Using a Battery

Installing a Battery

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

Storing a Battery

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

Battery and Power Problems

NOTE: See the

see page 80.

HECK THE POWER LIGHT — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If

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

HARGE THE BATTERY — The battery charge may be depleted.

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

CHECK THE BATTERY STATUS LIGHT — If the battery status light flashes orange or is a steady

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

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

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

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with

another device, such as a lamp.

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

light, ensure that the light is on.

ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power

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

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen

lamps, or other appliances.

DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — See the Te l l Me Ho w help file or search for the keyword

standby in the Help and Support Center. To access help, see page 80.

Tell Me How

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

Using a Battery 45

RESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, reseat the memory modules (see page 100).

If the battery is not charging

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

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

If battery life is short

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

under certain conditions.

PTIMIZE PROCESSOR PERFORMANCE AND POWER CONSUMPTION — See page 124.

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46 Using a Battery

SECTION 4

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Dell™ AccessDirect™ Button

Numeric Keypad

Keyboard Shortcuts

Touc h Pad

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

External Keyboard Problems

Unexpected Characters

Dell™ AccessDirect™ Button

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

Reprogramming the Button

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

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

icon.

2 Click the AccessDirect tab.

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

Numeric Keypad

numeric keypad

48 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

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

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

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

• To disable the keypad, press again.

Keyboard Shortcuts

System Functions

Opens the Tas k Ma na ge r window

Enables and disables the numeric keypad

Enables and disables the scroll lock

Display Functions

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

NOTE: If the computer is connected to a television, you must enable the television through the Windows display settings (see page 58).

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

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

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 49

Power Management

Speaker Functions

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Microsoft

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

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

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

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

Windows® Logo Key Functions

50 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Minimizes all open windows

Maximizes all windows

Runs Windows Explorer

Opens the Run dialog box

Opens the Search Results dialog box

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

Opens the System Properties dialog box

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

Touch Pad

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

touch pad

touch pad buttons

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

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

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

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

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 51

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

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

Hardware.

2 Click Mouse.

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

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

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

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

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

the Mouse Properties window.

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware. 2 Click Mouse. 3 Try adjusting the settings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

EINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER — See page 89.

desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it.

52 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

External Keyboard Problems

NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully

functional.

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

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

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

HECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —

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

routine.

3 From the Windows

and click Notepad.

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

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

O VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD, CHECK THE

INTEGRATED KEYBOARD —

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

click Notepad.

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

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

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

Unexpected Characters

DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD. Press to disable the numeric keypad if numbers

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

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 53

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54 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

SECTION 5

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs

CD or DVD Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

Connecting a Television to the Computer

Using CDs and DVDs

For information about using CDs and DVDs in your computer, see the Te l l M e H o w help file. To access the help file, see page 80.

CD or DVD Problems

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

NOTE: Because of different worldwide file types, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. This noise does not indicate

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a defect with the drive or the CD.

ENSURE THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and

remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive. Insert a bootable

disk and restart the computer. Verify that the light is blinking, indicating normal operation.

RY ANOTHER DISC. Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original disc is

defective.

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

corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

LEAN THE DRIVE OR DISC — See "Cleaning Your Computer" in the Te l l M e H ow help file for

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

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

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

until the tray is partially ejected.

3 Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

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

• Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.

If the CD-RW or DVD+RW drive stops writing

DISABLE STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD-RW OR DVD+RW — Search for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center. To access help, see

page 80.

56 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

CHANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE — See the help files for your CD creation

software.

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

CD-RW or DVD+RW may alleviate the problem.

Sound and Speaker Problems

If you have a problem with integrated speakers

ADJUST THE WINDOWS® VOLUME CONTROL — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-

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

DJUST THE VOLUME USING KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS. Press to disable (mute)

or reenable the integrated speakers.

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

If you have a problem with external speakers

NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you

have been listening to MP3 songs, make sure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.

HECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS — See the setup diagram supplied with the

speakers.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with

another device, such as a lamp.

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

speakers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen

lamps to check for interference.

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

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 57

Connecting a Television to the Computer

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

NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a television are not included

with your computer. Cables may be purchased at most consumer electronics stores.

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

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

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

NOTE: Diagrams for each connection combination appear at the beginning of each subsection

to help you determine which method you should use.

When you complete the cable connection, see "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" on page 62 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the television.

S-Video Connection

58 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

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

S-video cabl

audio cable

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

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

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

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

your computer.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 59

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

connectors on your television or other audio device.

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

computer.

7 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" on page 62 to ensure that the

computer recognizes and works properly with the television.

Composite Video Connection

60 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

To connect the computer to a television that has a composite video input only, use a

composite TV-out adapter cable. Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:

composite

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

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

-out adapter cable

composite video cable

audio cable

computer.

S-video TV-out connector

S-video connector

composite video connector

composite TV-out adapter cable

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 61

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

composite TV-out adapter cable.

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

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on the television.

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

computer.

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

connectors on your television or other audio device.

Enabling the Display Settings for a Television

ATI Video Controller

NOTE: Ensure that you properly connect the television before you enable the display settings.

1 Click the Start button and click the Control Panel icon.

2 Click Appearance and Themes and click Display.

3 Click the Settings tab and click Advanced.

62 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

4 Click the Display tab.

5 Click the upper-left corner of the TV button to enable the television.

6 To play a DVD on the television, click the small "primary" button (resembles a bulls-

eye) under the TV picture.

NOTE: Various programs access the hardware in different ways. You may or may not need to

click the primary button for operations other than playing DVDs.

Click Apply.

8 Click Ye s to keep the new settings.

9 Click OK.

DVD video is visible only on the display that is set to primary. While the DVD is playing, the DVD player window on your computer display is blank or (if the DVD player window is set to full-screen mode) the entire computer display screen is blank.

Nvidia Video Controller

NOTE: Ensure that you properly connect the television before you enable the display settings.

Open the Control Panel window.

2 Click the Start button and click the Control Panel icon.

3 Double-click the Display icon, click the Settings tab, and then click Advanced.

4 Click the Tw i nV i ew tab.

5 Click the Clone button to enable the television.

NOTE: Various programs access the hardware in different ways. You may or may not need to

click the primary button for operations other than playing DVDs.

Click Apply.

7 Click OK to confirm the settings change.

8 Click Ye s to keep the new settings.

9 Click OK.

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 63

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64 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

SECTION 6

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Network Setup Wizard

Network Problems

Connecting to Wireless Local Area Networks

Connecting to a Network Adapter

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

To connect a network cable:

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

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

secure.

2 Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device, such as a

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network wall jack.

NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall jack.

Network Setup Wizard

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

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

then click Network Setup Wizard.

66 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

2 On the welcome screen, click Next.

3 Click Checklist for creating a network.

NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables

the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP.

Complete the checklist and required preparations, and return to the Network Setup

Wizard.

5 Follow the instructions on the screen.

Network Problems

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable connector is

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

HECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR — Green indicates that the

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

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

ONTACT YOUR NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR — Verify that your network settings are correct

and that the network is functioning.

Connecting to Wireless Local Area Networks

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

NOTE: These networking instructions do not apply to Bluetooth™ or cellular products.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 67

Determining Your Network Type

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

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NOTE: Most wireless networks are the infrastructure type. Consult your network administrator

if you are unsure of the type of network to which you are connecting.

Ad-Hoc NetworkInfrastructure Network

Connecting to a Network in Windows XP

Your wireless network card requires proper software and drivers in order to connect to a network. This software is pre-installed from the factory. If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions listed in the User's Guide for your wireless card. The User’s Guide is located on your Drivers, Utilities, and Applications CD (that came with your computer) in the "User’s Guides-Network User’s Guides" category. The User’s Guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

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

2 Double-click Network Connections.

3 Click Wireless Network Connection.

The Wireless Network Connection icon is highlighted.

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

The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears.

68 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

5 Select the Wireless Networks tab.

NOTE: The names of wireless networks that your computer can see are listed in the Available

Networks area.

Click Add.

The Wireless network properties window appears.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 69

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

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

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

9 Click OK.

Your new network name appears in the Preferred networks area.

70 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Finalizing Your Network Connection (Security Settings)

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

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

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

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

NOTE: Network security settings are only provided by your network administrator and are

unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 71

Connecting to a Network With No Security-Related Requirements

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

2 Click Properties.

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

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

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

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5 Click OK.

Your network setup is complete.

NOTE: Your computer may take up to a minute to attach to the network.

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

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

NOTE: WPA protocols require that you know the Network Authentication and Data Encryption

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

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

2 Click Properties.

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

authentication type (as provided by the network administrator).

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

72 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

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

(as provided by the network administrator).

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

6 Click OK.]

Your network setup is complete.

NOTE: Your computer may take up to a minute to attach to the network.

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

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

2 Click Properties.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 73

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

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

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

5 If the wireless network does not require a network key (for example, password), go to

step 8.

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

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

key field.

74 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

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

9 Click OK.

Your network setup is complete.

NOTE: Your computer may take up to a minute to attach to the network.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 75

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76 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

SECTION 7

Solving Problems

Finding Solutions

Accessing Help

Error Messages

Video and Display Problems

Scanner Problems

Drive Problems

PC Card Problems

General Program Problems

Resolving Other Technical Problems

If Your Computer Gets Wet

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

Drivers

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Using System Restore

Reinstalling Microsoft

Windows® XP

Finding Solutions

NOTE: If you have a problem with an external device, see the device documentation or contact

the manufacturer.

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

See page 45.

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Press the power button to exit standby mode. See the

Tell Me How

more information on standby mode.

Get technical assistance from Dell. See page 126.

See page 80.

help file for

78 Solving Problems

See page 81.

See page 57.

See page 38

See page 35.

See page 83.

See page 52.

See page 53.

See page 84–85.

See page 67.

See page 80.

See page 86.

See page 85.

See page 35.

See page 36.

Solving Problems 79

Accessing Help

TO ACCESS THE

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Click User and system guides and click User’s guides. 3 Click Tel l Me Ho w.

TO ACCESS HELP IN WINDOWS XP —

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

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

Error Messages

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

THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION

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

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

icon.

ELL ME HOW

HELP FILE —

80 Solving Problems

A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING

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

filenames.

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

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

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND

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

the program that you want to use.

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

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

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

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

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

into the drive and try again.

Video and Display Problems

If the display is blank

NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer

supports, it is recommended that you attach an external monitor to your computer.

CHECK THE LIGHT — When the light is blinking, the computer has power.

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

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

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

mode.

Solving Problems 81

CHECK THE BATTERY — If you are using a battery to power your computer,

the battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.

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

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

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CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET —

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

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

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

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

NOTE: If the computer is connected to a television, you must enable the television through the Windows display settings (see page 59).

If the display is difficult to read

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

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

ADJUST THE FONT AND ICON SIZES — See page 32.

MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR —

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

82 Solving Problems

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent

lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances.

ROTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION —

Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

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

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

If only part of the display is readable

CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —

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

contrast controls.

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

Scanner Problems

CHECK THE POWER CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the scanner

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

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

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

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

Solving Problems 83

Drive Problems

NOTE: For information on saving files to a floppy disk, see the

the help file, see page 80.

If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive

ENSURE THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start

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

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the computer. Verify that the light is blinking, indicating normal operation.

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

write-protected

not writeprotected

back of floppy disk

Tell M e Ho w

help file. To access

84 Solving Problems

TRY ANOTHER FLOPPY DISK — Insert another disk to eliminate the

possibility that the original disk is defective.

RECONNECT THE DRIVE —

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

computer.

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

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

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

If you have problems with a hard drive

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

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

CHECK THE DRIVE FOR ERRORS —

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

then click Properties.

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

PC Card Problems

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

the connector.

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

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

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A PC CARD NOT PROVIDED BY

ELL — Contact the PC Card manufacturer.

General Program Problems

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy

disk or CD.

Solving Problems 85

A program crashes

SEE THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — Many software manufacturers

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

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

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1 Simultaneously press .

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

3 Click End Task.

Error messages appear

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

take the appropriate action. See the software documentation.

Resolving Other Technical Problems

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

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

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

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

responding.

86 Solving Problems

CONTACT DELL — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell™ Support

website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 126). See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 125 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.

If Your Computer Gets Wet

CAUTION: Perform this procedure only after you are certain that it is safe to do

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

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

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

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

and then from the computer.

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

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

5 Remove the battery.

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

7 Wipe off the display.

8 Remove the hard drive (see page 106).

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

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

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

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

CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is

thoroughly dry before continuing with the rest of this procedure.

Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.

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

13 Replace the hard drive.

14 Replace any PC Cards you removed.

Solving Problems 87

15 Replace the battery.

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

NOTE: See "Limited Warranties and Return Policy" on page 145 for information on your

warranty coverage.

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

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

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

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(see page 40).

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

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

and then from the computer.

4 Remove and reinstall the battery.

5 Turn on the computer.

NOTE: See "Limited Warranties and Return Policy" on page 145 for information on your

warranty coverage.

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

Drivers

What Is a Driver?

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

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

88 Solving Problems

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

• You upgrade your operating system.

• You reinstall your operating system.

• You connect or install a new device.

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

Identifying Drivers

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

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

Maintenance.

3 In the Performance and Maintenance window, click System.

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

5 Click Device Manager.

6 In the Device Manager window, scroll down the list to see if any device has an

exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the device icon.

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

Reinstalling Drivers

NOTICE: The Dell Support website and your

for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

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

Drivers and Utilities

CD provide approved drivers

Solving Problems 89

To use Device Driver Rollback:

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

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

Maintenance.

3 In the Performance and Maintenance window, click System.

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

5 Click Device Manager.

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

installed, and then click Properties.

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7 Click the Drivers tab.

8 Click Roll Back Driver.

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see page 92) to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new driver.

Using the Drivers and Utilities CD

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see page 92) does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the Drivers and Utilities CD.

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

2 Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD.

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

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

the driver or utility (if available).

A welcome screen appears.

90 Solving Problems

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

used by your computer.

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

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

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

utility that you want to install.

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

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

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

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

Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows XP

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

click the Start button and right-click My Computer.

2 Click Properties.

3 Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.

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

Modems or Infrared devices).

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

6 Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.

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

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

files.

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

10 Click Finish and restart your computer.

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Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

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

To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows XP:

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 Click Performance and Maintenance and click System.

3 Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.

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

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

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

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

6 Resolve conflicts by reconfiguring the devices or removing the devices from the Device

Manager.

To use the Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter:

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

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

search.

3 Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.

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

computer, and click Next.

X if the device has been disabled.

!) beside the conflicting device

Using System Restore

The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access help, see page 80.

92 Solving Problems

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

files or recover them.

Creating a Restore Point

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

2 Click System Restore.

3 Follow the instructions on the screen.

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 89) to resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.

NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close all open

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

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

click System Restore.

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

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

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

4 Select a restore point and click Next.

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

5 Click Next.

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

6 After the computer restarts, click OK.

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

Solving Problems 93

Undoing the Last System Restore

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

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

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

click System Restore.

2 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.

3 Click Next.

The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts.

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4 After the computer restarts, click OK.

Enabling System Restore

If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 Click Performance and Maintenance.

3 Click System.

4 Click the System Restore tab.

5 Ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.

Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP

Before You Reinstall

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

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see page 92) to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver.

94 Solving Problems

Reinstalling Windows XP

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

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

NOTICE: The

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

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

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

Operating System

CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options

Preparing to Boot From the Operating System CD

1 Insert the Operating System CD.

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

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

4 Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.

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

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

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

any key.

Starting Windows XP Setup

1 When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press to select To set up

Windows now.

2 Read the information in the Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement screen, and

then press to accept the license agreement.

Solving Problems 95

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

current Windows XP data, type from the drive.

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

option.

5 Press to select the highlighted partition (recommended), and then follow

the instructions on the screen.

NOTE: The time required to complete the setup depends on the size of the hard drive and the

speed of your computer.

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

Completing the GUI Setup

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

Press any key to boot from the CD.

When the Regional and Language Options screen appears, select the settings for your

location and click Next.

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

and click Next.

r to select the repair option, and then remove the CD

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

window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the name provided) and click Next.

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional, at the Computer Name and Administrator Password window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the one provided) and a password, and then click Next.

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

the Modem Dialing Information screen appears.

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

Next.

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

and click Next.

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

96 Solving Problems

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

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

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

Completing the Operating System Setup

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

Press any key to boot from the CD.

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

2 When the How will this computer connect to the Internet? message

appears, click Skip.

3 When the Ready to register with Microsoft? screen appears, click No, not at this time

and click Next.

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

4 Click Next.

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

Reinstalling Drivers and Software

1 Reinstall the appropriate drivers (see page 89).

2 Reinstall your virus protection software. See the documentation that came with the

software for instructions.

3 Reinstall your other software programs. See the documentation that came with the

software for instructions.

Solving Problems 97

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98 Solving Problems

SECTION 8

Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Add or Replace Parts

Memory

Modem and Mini PCI Card

Hard Drive

CD or DVD Drive

Keyboard

Before You Add or Replace Parts

CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions at

the front of this document (see page 11).

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

cover.

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

computer (see page 40).

3 Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.

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

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5 Remove any installed PC Cards and the battery.

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

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

Memory

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

1 Complete the instructions in the preceding section, "Before You Add or Replace Parts."

2 Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screw on the memory module cover, and

lift the cover away from the computer.

100 Adding and Replacing Parts

captive screw

memory module cover

Dell Inspiron PP07L User manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Setting Up Your Computer

Adjusting Font and Icon Sizes

Dell™ QuickSet Features

Connecting to the Internet

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

E-Mail Problems

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Problems

Power Protection Devices

Turning Off Your Computer

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Charging the Battery

Removing a Battery

Installing a Battery

Storing a Battery

Battery and Power Problems

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Dell™ AccessDirect™ Button

Numeric Keypad

Keyboard Shortcuts

Touch Pad

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

External Keyboard Problems

Unexpected Characters

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs

CD or DVD Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

Connecting a Television to the Computer

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Network Setup Wizard

Network Problems

Connecting to Wireless Local Area Networks

Solving Problems

Finding Solutions

Accessing Help

Error Messages

Video and Display Problems

Scanner Problems

Drive Problems

PC Card Problems

General Program Problems

Resolving Other Technical Problems

If Your Computer Gets Wet

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

Drivers

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Using System Restore

Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP

Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Add or Replace Parts

Memory