Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo and Dell Precision are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Xeon, and Pentium are registered
trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or media
may not be available in certain countries.
NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
What Are You Looking For?Find It Here
• A diagnostic program for my computer
• Drivers for my computer
• My computer documentation
• My device documentation
• Desktop System Software (DSS)
• How to set up my computer
• How to care for my computer
• Basic troubleshooting information
• How to run the Dell™ Diagnostics
• Error codes and diagnostic lights
• How to remove and install parts
• How to open my computer cover
Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as Resource CD)
Documentation and
drivers are already
installed on your
computer. You can use
the CD to reinstall drivers,
run the Dell Diagnostics
or access your
documentation. Readme
files may be included on
your CD to provide last-
minute updates about
technical changes to your computer or advanced technicalreference material for technicians or experienced users.
NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found
at support.dell.com.
Quick Reference Guide
NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at
support.dell.com.
Quick Reference Guide5
What Are You Looking For?Find It Here
• Warranty information
Dell™ Product Information Guide
• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
• How to remove and replace parts
• Specifications
• How to configure system settings
• How to troubleshoot and solve problems
• Service Tag and Express Service Code
• Microsoft Windows License Label
User’s Guide
Microsoft
®
Windows® XP Help and Support Center
1
Click the Start button and click
2
Click User’s and system guides and click
Help and Support
User’s Guide
The User’s Guide is also available on the Drivers and
Utilities CD.
Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License
These labels are located on your computer.
• Use the Service Tag to
identify your computer
when you use
support.dell.com
or
contact technical
support.
• Enter the Express
Service Code to direct your call when contacting technical
support.
6Quick Reference Guide
What Are You Looking For?Find It Here
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles
from technicians, and online courses, frequently asked
questions
• Community — Online discussion with other Dell
customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components,
such as memory, the hard drive, and the operating
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region or business segment to view
the appropriate support site.
NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers
can also use the customized Dell Premier support website at
premier.support.dell.com. The website may not be available
in all regions.
system
• Customer Care — Contact information, service call
and order status, warranty, and repair information
• Service and support — Service call status and support
history, service contract, online discussions with
technical support
• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my
computer configuration, product specifications, and
white papers
• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software
updates
• Desktop System Software (DSS)— If you reinstall the
operating system for your computer, you should reinstall
the DSS utility prior to installing any of the drivers. DSS
provides critical updates for your operating system and
support for Dell™ 3.5-inch USB floppy drives, optical
drives, and USB devices. DSS is necessary for correct
operation of your Dell computer. The software
automatically detects your computer and operating
system and installs the updates appropriate for your
configuration.
• How to use Windows XP
• How to work with programs and files
• Documentation for devices (such as modem)
Windows Help and Support Center
1
Click the
2
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem
and click the arrow icon.
3
Click the topic that describes your problem.
4
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Start
button and click
Help and Support
.
Quick Reference Guide7
What Are You Looking For?Find It Here
• How to reinstall my operating system
Operating System CD
devices that came with your computer. Your operating
system product key label is located on your computer.
NOTE: The color of your CD varies based on the operating
system you ordered.
NOTE: The Operating System CD may be optional and may
not ship with your computer.
• How to use Linux
• E-mail discussions with users of Dell Precision™
products and the Linux operating system
• Additional information regarding Linux
and my Dell Precision computer
The operating system is
already installed on your
computer. To reinstall your
operating system, use the
Operating System CD. See
your User’s Guide for
instructions. After you
reinstall your operating
system, use the Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD)
to reinstall drivers for the
8Quick Reference Guide
Setting Up Your Computer
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
in the Product Information Guide.
You must complete all steps to properly set up your computer.
1
2
Connect the keyboard and the mouse.
Connect the modem or the network cable.
NOTICE: Do not connect a modem cable to
the network adapter. Voltage from telephone
communications can damage the network adapter.
NOTE: If your computer has a network card installed,
connect the network cable to the card.
Quick Reference Guide9
3
Depending on your graphics
card, you can connect your
monitor in various ways.
Connect the monitor.
NOTE: You may need to use
the provided adapter or
cable to connect your
monitor to the computer.
10Quick Reference Guide
For single- and dual-monitor capable cards with a single connector
One VGA adapter:
VGA
Use the VGA adapter when you have a single-monitor
graphics card and you want to connect your computer
to a VGA monitor.
Dual VGA Y cable adapter:
Dual DVI Y cable adapter:
VGA
VGA
Use the appropriate Y cable when your graphics card has a
single connector and you want to connect your computer
to one or two VGA monitors.
Use the appropriate Y cable when your graphics card has a
single connector and you want to connect your computer
to one or two DVI monitors.
DVI
DVI
The dual-monitor cable is color-coded; the blue connector is for the primary monitor, and the black
connector is for the second monitor. To enable dual-monitor support, both monitors must be attached
to the computer when you start the computer.
Quick Reference Guide11
For dual-monitor capable cards with one DVI connector and one VGA connector
One DVI connector and one VGA connector:
DVI
VGA
Two VGA connectors with one VGA adapter:
VGA
VGA
Use the appropriate connector(s) when you want
to connect your computer to one or two monitors.
For dual-monitor capable cards with two DVI connectors
Two DVI connectors:
Two DVI connectors with one VGA
adapter:
DVI
DVI
Use the DVI connectors to connect
your computer to one or two DVI
monitors.
Use the VGA adapter to connect a
VGA monitor to one of the DVI
connectors on your computer
DVI
Use the VGA adapter when you want to connect
your computer to two VGA monitors.
Two DVI connectors with two VGA
adapters:
VGA
VGA
VGA
Use two VGA adapters to connect
two VGA monitors to the DVI
connectors on your computer.
12Quick Reference Guide
4
5
Connect the speakers.
NOTE: If your
computer has a sound
card installed, connect
the speakers to the
card.
Connect the power
cables and turn on the
computer and monitor.
Quick Reference Guide13
6
Before you install any devices or software that did not come with your computer, read the documentation
that came with the software or device or contact the vendor to verify that the software or device is
compatible with your computer and operating system.
You have now completed the setup for your computer.
Install additional software or devices.
About Your Computer
CAUTION: Your computer is heavy (it has an approximate minimum weight of 55 lbs) and can be difficult to
maneuver. Seek assistance before attempting to lift, move, or tilt it; this computer requires a two-man lift.
Always lift correctly to avoid injury; avoid bending over while lifting. See your Product Information Guide
for other important safety information.
CAUTION: Before setting your computer upright, install the computer stand. Failure to install the stand before
setting the computer upright could cause the computer to tip over, potentially resulting in bodily injury or damage
to the computer.
14Quick Reference Guide
Front View
1
2
13
12
11
10
9
8
3
4
5
6
7
Quick Reference Guide15
1-3 5.25-inch drive baysCan hold a CD/DVD drive, or a Media Card Reader, floppy drive, or SATA hard
drive in a 5.25-inch drive bay carrier.
NOTE: The drive carriers are only for use in the 5.25-inch drive bays. The
floppy-drive/ Media Card Reader and hard-drive carriers are not interchangeable.
45.25-inch drive bay with
special 3.5-inch drive
panel plate
Can hold a CD/DVD drive, or a Media Card Reader, floppy drive, or SATA hard
drive in a 5.25-inch drive bay carrier. The drive-panel plate shown here is only for
use with a floppy drive or Media Card Reader; it can be installed in front of any of
the four 5.25-inch drive bays. For more information, see your User’s Guide.
NOTE: The drive carriers are only for use in the 5.25-inch drive bays. The floppy drive/
Media Card Reader and hard drive carriers are not interchangeable.
5hard-drive activity lightThe hard drive light is on when the computer reads data from or writes data to the
hard drive. The light might also be on when a device such as your CD player is
operating.
6IEEE 1394 connectorUse the IEEE 1394 connector for high-speed data devices such as digital video
cameras and external storage devices.
16Quick Reference Guide
7USB 2.0 connectors (2)Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
flash memory keys, cameras, or bootable USB devices (see your User’s Guide for
more information).
It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors for devices that typically
remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.
8power buttonPress to turn on the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the
computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown.
NOTE: The power button can also be used to wake the system or to place it into
a power-saving state. See your User’s Guide for more information.
9power lightThe power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:
• No light — The computer is turned off or in a hibernation mode.
• Steady green — The computer is in a normal operating state.
• Blinking green — The computer is in a power-saving state.
• Blinking or solid amber — See "Power Problems" in your
To exit from a power-saving state, press the power button or use the keyboard or
the mouse if it is configured as a wake device in the Windows Device Manager.
For more information about sleep states and exiting from a power-saving state,
see your User’s Guide.
See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 35 for a description of light codes that can help
you troubleshoot problems with your computer.
10microphone connectorUse the microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone
for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
11headphone connectorUse the headphone connector to attach headphones.
12network link lightThe network link light is on when a good connection exists between a 10-Mbps,
100-Mbps, or 1000-Mbps (or 1-Gbps) network and the computer.
13diagnostic lights (4)Use these lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem based on the
diagnostic code. For more information, see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 35.
User’s Guide
.
Quick Reference Guide17
Back View
1
2
3
1power connectorInsert the power cable. The appearance of this connector may differ from what is
pictured here.
2card slotsAccess connectors for any installed PCI, PCI-X, or PCI Express cards.
NOTE: The center five connector slots support full-length cards: one PCI, one PCI
express x16, one PCI express x8 (wired as x4), and two PCI-X slots; the connector
slots at the top and at the bottom support half-length cards: two PCI express x8 slots
(wired as x4).
3back panel connectorsPlug serial, USB, and other devices into the
(see "Back Panel Connectors" on page 19).
appropriate connector
18Quick Reference Guide
Back Panel Connectors
12346
57
1312111089
1parallel connectorConnect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel connector. If you have
a USB printer, plug it into a USB connector.
NOTE: The integrated parallel connector is automatically disabled if the computer
detects an installed card containing a parallel connector configured to the same
address. For more information, see your User’s Guide.
2line-out/ headphone
connector
3mouse connectorPlug a standard mouse into the green mouse connector. Turn off the computer
4USB 2.0 connectors (3)It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you
Use the green line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with
integrated amplifiers.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
and any attached devices before you connect a mouse to the computer. If you have
a USB mouse, plug it into a USB connector.
®
If your computer is running the Microsoft
the necessary mouse drivers have been installed on your hard drive.
connect occasionally, such as flash memory keys, cameras, or bootable USB
devices.
Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected,
such as printers and keyboards.
Windows® XP operating system,
Quick Reference Guide19
5link integrity light
6network adapter
connector
• Green — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps network and the
computer.
• Orange — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps network and the
computer.
• Yellow — A good connection exists between a 1000-Mbps (or 1-Gbps) network
and the computer.
• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.
To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end
of a network cable to either a network jack or your network or broadband device.
Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector
on your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely
attached.
NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network connector.
On computers with an additional network connector card, use the connectors
on the card and on the back of the computer when setting up multiple network
connections (such as a separate intra- and extranet).
It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your
network. If you must use Category 3 wiring, force the network speed to 10 Mbps
to ensure reliable operation.
7network activity lightFlashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting or receiving network
data. A high volume of network traffic may make this light appear to be in a steady
"on" state.
8USB 2.0 connectors (2)It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you
connect occasionally, such as flash memory keys, cameras, or bootable USB
devices.
Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected,
such as printers and keyboards.
9IEEE 1394 connectorUse the IEEE 1394 connector for high-speed data devices such as digital video
cameras and external storage devices.
10 keyboard connectorIf you have a standard keyboard, plug it into the purple keyboard connector.
If you have a USB keyboard, plug it into a USB connector.
11 line-in connectorUse the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a cassette
player, CD player, or VCR.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
12 serial connectorConnect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. If necessary,
the address for this port can be modified through System Setup (see your User’s Guide for more information).
13 serial connectorConnect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. If necessary,
the address for this port can be modified through System Setup (see your User’s Guide for more information).
20Quick Reference Guide
Inside View
1
2
7
6
45
1power supply
2hard drive bay
3memory shroud
NOTICE: The memory shroud holds the
4front fan
5card fan
65.25-inch drive bay with 3.5-inch drive panel plate
75.25-inch drive bay
(optional) memory riser cards in place; its
thumbscrews must be sufficiently tight in order
to secure the risers and to avoid damage.
•Front and back views of your computer, including all of the available connectors
•Inside views of your computer, including a detailed graphic of the system board and the connectors
•Instructions for cleaning your computer
•Information on software features, such as Legacy Select Technology control, using a password, and
system setup options
•Tips and information for using the Microsoft Windows XP operating system
•Instructions for removing and installing parts, including memory, cards, drives, the microprocessor,
and the battery
•Information for troubleshooting various computer problems
•Instructions for using the Dell Diagnostics and reinstalling drivers
•Information on how to contact Dell
You can access the
contains additional information about your computer such as:
User’s Guide
from your hard drive or the Dell Support website at
support.dell.com
.
Removing the Computer Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.
CAUTION: Your computer is heavy (it has an approximate minimum weight of 55 lbs) and can be difficult to
maneuver. Seek assistance before attempting to lift, move, or tilt it; this computer requires a two-man lift. Always
lift correctly to avoid injury; avoid bending over while lifting. See your Product Information Guide for other
important safety information.
CAUTION: The computer stand should be installed at all times to ensure maximum system stability. Failure to
install the stand could result in the computer tipping over, potentially resulting in bodily injury or damage to
the computer.
24Quick Reference Guide
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your
body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted
metal surface on the computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" in the
NOTICE: Opening the computer cover while the computer is running could result in a shutdown without warning
and a loss of data in open programs. The computer cooling system cannot function properly while the cover is
removed.
2
If you have installed a security cable, remove it from the security cable slot.
3
Carefully, with the help of an assistant, remove the computer stand (see "Removing the Computer
User’s Guide
.
Stand").
CAUTION: Your computer is heavy (it has an approximate minimum weight of 55 lbs) and can be difficult to
maneuver. Seek assistance before attempting to lift, move, or tilt it; this computer requires a two-man lift. Always
lift correctly to avoid injury; avoid bending over while lifting. See your Product Information Guide for other
important safety information.
CAUTION: The computer stand should be installed at all times to ensure maximum system stability. Failure to
install the stand could result in the computer tipping over, potentially resulting in bodily injury or damage to the
computer.
NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the computer or the
surface on which it is resting.
4
Carefully, with the help of an assistant, lower your computer down to a flat surface with the cover
facing up.
5
Pull back the cover latch release.
NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the removed cover—at least 30 cm (1 ft) of desk top space.
Quick Reference Guide25
1
2
3
1 cover latch release
2 computer cover
3 cover hinges
6
Locate the three hinge tabs on the edge of the computer.
7
Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up, using the hinges as leverage points.
8
Release the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside in a secure location.
NOTICE: The computer cooling system cannot function properly while the computer cover is not installed.
Do not attempt to boot the computer before reinstalling the computer cover.
26Quick Reference Guide
Computer Stand
CAUTION: Your computer is heavy (it has an approximate minimum weight of 55 lbs) and can be difficult to
maneuver. Seek assistance before attempting to lift, move, or tilt it; this computer requires a two-man lift. Always
lift correctly to avoid injury; avoid bending over while lifting. See your Product Information Guide for other
important safety information.
CAUTION: The computer stand should be installed at all times to ensure maximum system stability. Failure to
install the stand could result in the computer tipping over, potentially resulting in bodily injury or damage to
the computer.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your
body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted
metal surface on the computer.
Attaching the Computer Stand
CAUTION: Your computer is heavy (it has an approximate minimum weight of 55 lbs) and can be difficult to
maneuver. Seek assistance before attempting to lift, move, or tilt it; this computer requires a two-man lift. Always
lift correctly to avoid injury; avoid bending over while lifting. See your Product Information Guide for other
important safety information.
CAUTION: The computer stand should be installed at all times to ensure maximum system stability. Failure to
install the stand could result in the computer tipping over, potentially resulting in bodily injury or damage to
the computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" in the
2
If you have installed a security cable, remove it from the security cable slot.
3
Set the stand on the ground in front of the computer, so that the front and the back of the stand touch
the ground.
If the front and the back of the stand point up toward the ceiling, the stand is upside down.
4
Ensure that the alignment guide faces the computer.
If the alignment guide points away from the computer, the stand is backwards.
User’s Guide
.
Quick Reference Guide27
1
3
2
1 computer
2 computer stand
3 alignment guide
5
Align the center of the stand with the center of the computer.
6
Carefully, with the help of an assistant, tilt the computer backwards slightly- just high enough to slide
the stand beneath it.
7
Slide the rear of the stand into the rear foot of the computer, and ensure that the alignment guide
slides into place.
8
Center the front bar of the stand in the corresponding notch in the front foot of the computer.
9
Carefully set the computer back down; the front bar of the stand should snap into place under
the weight of the computer.
28Quick Reference Guide
Removing the Computer Stand
CAUTION: Your computer is heavy (it has an approximate minimum weight of 55 lbs) and can be difficult to
maneuver. Seek assistance before attempting to lift, move, or tilt it; this computer requires a two-man lift. Always
lift correctly to avoid injury; avoid bending over while lifting. See your Product Information Guide for other
important safety information.
CAUTION: The computer stand should be installed at all times to ensure maximum system stability. Failure to
install the stand could result in the computer tipping over, potentially resulting in bodily injury or damage to
the computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" in the
2
Carefully, with the help of an assistant, tip the computer back at a very slight angle from the ground.
3
Pull the front of the computer stand down towards the ground, to release it from the front of the
computer.
4
Pull the computer stand toward the front of the computer until the stand is free.
User’s Guide
.
Caring for Your Computer
To help maintain your computer, follow these suggestions:
•To avoid losing or corrupting data, never turn off your computer when the hard drive light is on.
•Schedule regular virus scans using virus software.
•Manage hard drive space by periodically deleting unnecessary files and defragmenting the drive.
•Back up files on a regular basis.
•Periodically clean your monitor screen, mouse, and keyboard (see your
information).
User’s Guide
for more
Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips
Perform the following checks when you troubleshoot your computer:
•If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures
and ensure that the part is correctly installed.
•If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.
•If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. The message may help
technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).
•If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.
•If the recommended action in the troubleshooting section is to see a section in your
support.dell.com (on another computer if necessary) to access your
go to
User’s Guide.
Quick Reference Guide29
User’s Guide
,
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured,
you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1
Click the
2
Ty p e
3
Click
4
In the
and click
Start
button and click
hardware troubleshooter
Hardware Troubleshooter
Hardware Troubleshooter
Next
.
Help and Support
in the
list, click
.
in the
Search
field and click the arrow to start the search.
Search Results
list.
I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer
,
Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore
The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer
to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other
system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help and
Support Center (see "Finding Information" on page 5) for information about using System Restore.
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
2
Click
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Start
button and click
System Restore
Help and Support
.
.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any
open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1
Click the
Restore
2
Ensure that
3
Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
The
Start
button, point to
.
Restore my computer to an earlier time
Select a Restore Point
All Programs→
Accessories→
System Tools
is selected and click
, and then click
Next
.
screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points.
All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.
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.
30Quick Reference Guide
System
5
Click
Next
.
The
Restoration Complete
screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then
the computer restarts.
6
After the computer restarts, click OK.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can undo
the restoration.
Undoing the Last System Restore
NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs.
Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1
Click the
Restore
2
Click
3
Click
The
4
After the computer restarts, click OK.
Enabling System Restore
Start
button, point to
.
Undo my last restoration
Next
.
System Restore
screen appears and the computer restarts.
All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools
and click
Next
.
, and then click
System
If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is
automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Click
4
Click the
5
Ensure that
Start
button and click
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
System
.
System Restore
tab.
Turn off System Restore
.
.
is unchecked.
Using the Last Known Good Configuration
1
Restart your computer and press <F8> when the message
system to start
2
Highlight
Last Known Good Configuration
operating system when prompted.
appears.
, press <Enter>, press <l>, and then select your
Please select the operating
Quick Reference Guide31
Other Options to Help Resolve Additional Device or Software Conflicts
NOTICE: The following processes erase all of the information on your hard drive.
•Reinstall your operating system using the operating system installation guide and
System
CD. During the operating system reinstallation, you can select to delete the existing partitions
Operating
and reformat your hard drive.
•Reinstall all drivers, beginning with the chipset, using the
Drivers and Utilities
CD
.
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on page 29 and
run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers. Using this program with other computers can cause
incorrect computer responses or result in error messages.
The Dell Diagnostics allow you to:
•Perform quick checks or extensive tests on one or all devices
•Choose how many times a test is run
•Display or print test results or save them in a file
•Suspend testing if an error is detected or terminate testing if a certain number of errors occur
Help
•Access online
•Read status messages that tell you whether tests completed successfully
•Receive error messages if problems are detected
screens that describe the tests and how to run them
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
1
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2
When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, see "Starting the Dell
Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD" on page 33.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the
Microsoft Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again. For more information on
shutting down your computer, see your
3
When the boot device list appears, highlight
4
When the Dell Diagnostics
on the tests, see your
Main Menu
User’s Guide.
User’s Guide.
Boot to Utility Partition
and press <Enter>.
appears, select the test you want to run. For more information
32Quick Reference Guide
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with all computers.
1
Insert the
2
Shut down your computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows
desktop. Then shut down your computer, and try again.
NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer boots
according to the devices specified in system setup.
3
When the boot device list appears, highlight
4
Select the
5
Select the
6
Ty p e 1 to start the ResourceCD menu.
7
Select the option to start the Dell Diagnostics and press <Enter>.
8
Select
select the version appropriate for your computer.
9
When the Dell Diagnostics
Drivers and Utilities
Onboard or USB CD-ROM Drive
Boot from CD-ROM
Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics
CD.
option from the menu that appears.
Main Menu
Onboard or USB CD-ROM Drive
option from the CD boot menu.
from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed,
appears, select the test that you want to run.
and press <Enter>.
Before you start testing
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
•Turn on your printer if one is attached.
•Enter system setup, review your computer’s configuration information, and enable all of your
computer’s components and devices, such as connectors.
Beep Codes
Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or problems.
This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies a problem. One possible beep code (code 1-3-1) consists
of one beep, a burst of three beeps, and then one beep. This beep code tells you that the computer
encountered a memory problem.
If your computer beeps during start-up:
1
Write down the beep code on the "Diagnostics Checklist" in your
2
Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause.
3
Contact Dell for technical assistance.
User’s Guide
.
Quick Reference Guide33
CodeCause
1-1-2Microprocessor register failure
1-1-3NVRAM read/write failure
1-1-4ROM BIOS checksum failure
1-2-1Programmable interval timer failure
1-2-2DMA initialization failure
1-2-3DMA page register read/write failure
1-3Video Memory Test failure
1-3-1 through 2-4-4Memory not being properly identified or used
1-3-2Memory problem
3-1-1Slave DMA register failure
3-1-2Master DMA register failure
3-1-3Master interrupt mask register failure
3-1-4Slave interrupt mask register failure
3-2-2Interrupt vector loading failure
3-2-4Keyboard Controller Test failure
3-3-1NVRAM power loss
3-3-2Invalid NVRAM configuration
3-3-4Video Memory Test failure
3-4-1Screen initialization failure
3-4-2Screen retrace failure
3-4-3Search for video ROM failure
4-2-1No timer tick
4-2-2Shutdown failure
4-2-3Gate A20 failure
4-2-4Unexpected interrupt in protected mode
4-3-1Memory failure above address 0FFFFh
4-3-3Timer-chip counter 2 failure
4-3-4Time-of-day clock stopped
4-4-1Serial or parallel port test failure
4-4-2Failure to decompress code to shadowed memory
34Quick Reference Guide
CodeCause
4-4-3Math-coprocessor test failure
4-4-4Cache test failure
Error Messages
NOTE: If the message is not listed, see the documentation for either the operating system or the program that was
running when the message appeared.
If an error occurs during start-up, a message may be displayed on the monitor identifying the problem.
See "Error Messages" in the
User’s Guide
for suggestions on resolving any problems.
Diagnostic Lights
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4" on the front.
The lights can be "off" or green. When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. If the computer
malfunctions, the pattern of the lights and also that of the power button help to identify the problem.
These lights also indicate sleep states.
Diagnostic Light Codes Before POST
Diagnostic LightsPower
Light
offNo electrical power is
offThe computer is in a normal
Problem DescriptionSuggested Resolution
Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
supplied to the computer.
off condition; the computer is
connected to an electrical
outlet.
Ensure that the front-panel power light is on. If
the power light is off, ensure that the computer
is connected to a working electrical outlet and
then press the power button.
If the problem is still not resolved, contact Dell
for technical assistance.
Press the power button to turn the computer
on.
If the computer does not turn on, ensure that
the front-panel power light is on. If the power
light is off, ensure that the computer is
connected to a working electrical outlet and
then press the power button.
If the problem is still not resolved, contact Dell
for technical assistance.
Quick Reference Guide35
Diagnostic LightsPower
Light
blinking
green
blinking
green
amberThe BIOS is not executing.Ensure that the processor is seated correctly and
(blinking)
blinking
amber
(blinking)
amberA possible system board
Problem DescriptionSuggested Resolution
The computer is in a reduced
power or "sleep" state.
The computer is in a reduced
power or "sleep" state.
A possible power supply
or power cable failure has
occurred.
failure has occurred.
Use one of the appropriate methods to "wake
up" the computer. See "Advanced Features" in
your User’s Guide.
If the problem is not resolved and you are trying
to wake the computer with a USB mouse or
keyboard, substitute the mouse or keyboard
with a working PS/2 mouse or keyboard and
then try to wake the computer.
Use one of the appropriate methods to "wake
up" the computer. See "Advanced Features" in
your User’s Guide.
If the problem is not resolved and you are trying
to wake the computer with a USB mouse or
keyboard, substitute the mouse or keyboard
with a working PS/2 mouse or keyboard and
then try to wake the computer.
restart the computer. See "Processor" in your
User’s Guide.
If the problem is still not resolved, contact Dell
for technical assistance.
Perform the procedure in "Power Problems"
in your User’s Guide.
If the problem is still not resolved, contact Dell
for technical assistance.
Contact Dell for technical assistance.
(blinking)
amberA processor mismatch exists. Perform the procedure in "Processor Problems"
(blinking)
amberA possible failure has been
(blinking)
36Quick Reference Guide
detected in a plug-in
component such as a graphics
riser card or memory riser
card.
in your User’s Guide.
Verify that any required power cables are
connected to the memory and graphics riser
cards.
Perform the procedure in "Power Problems"
in your User’s Guide.
Diagnostic LightsPower
Problem DescriptionSuggested Resolution
Light
amberA possible power supply
failure has occurred.
Verify that both power supply cables are
plugged in to the motherboard.
(blinking)
Diagnostic Light Codes During POST
The power light displays a solid green for diagnostic light codes during POST.
Determine if a conflict exists by
removing a card (not the graphics
card) and then restarting the
computer.
2
If the problem persists, reinstall the
card that you removed, remove a
different card, and then restart the
computer.
3
Repeat this process for each card.
If the computer starts normally,
troubleshoot the last card removed
from the computer for resource
conflicts (see "Resolving Software
and Hardware Incompatibilities"
on page 30).
4
Move each card one at a time to
a different PCI slot and restart
the computer after each move.
Reseat the memory modules to ensure
that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory.
2
Restart the computer.
3
If the problem still exists, remove all
the memory modules and install one
memory module in memory module
connector DIMM_1.
4
Restart the computer.
A message appears stating that
because your memory is not paired,
the system will operate with reduced
performance and reduced errorcorrection capability
5
Press <F1> to boot to the operating
system.
6
Run the Dell Diagnostics. See your
User’s Guide
7
If the memory module passes, shut
for more information.
down the computer, remove the
memory module, and then repeat the
process with the remaining memory
modules until a memory error occurs
during start-up or diagnostic testing.
If the first memory module tested is
defective, repeat the process with the
remaining modules to ensure that the
remaining modules are not defective.
8
When the defective memory module
is identified, contact Dell for a
replacement
• If you have one memory module
installed, reinstall it and restart the
computer.
• If you have two or more memory
modules installed, remove the
modules, reinstall one module, and
then restart the computer). If the
computer starts normally, reinstall an
additional module. Continue until
you have identified a faulty module or
reinstalled all modules without error.
• If available, install properly working
memory of the same type into your
computer.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell.
Contact Dell
for technical assistance
.
Memory modules are detected, but a
memory configuration or compatibility
error exists.
Routine system activity preceding video
initialization.
• Ensure that no special memory
module/memory connector placement
requirements exist.
• Verify that the memory modules that
you are installing are compatible with
your computer.
• Reinstall the memory modules and
restart the computer.
Determine if a conflict exists by
removing a card (not a graphics card)
and restarting the computer.
2
If the problem persists, reinstall the
card that you removed, remove a
different card, and then restart the
computer.
3
Repeat this process for each card.
If the computer starts normally,
troubleshoot the last card removed
from the computer for resource
conflicts (see "Resolving Software
and Hardware Incompatibilities"
on page 30).
4
If the problem persists, contact Dell.
Routine system activity preceding video
initialization.
Watch your monitor for on-screen
messages.
The computer is in a normal operating
condition after POST.
NOTE: The diagnostic lights flicker briefly;
they are turned off after the computer
successfully boots to the operating
system.
None.
Quick Reference Guide41
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I...SolutionWhere to Find Additional Information
Set up my computer to use two
monitors?
Connect my monitor when the
monitor cable connector doesn’t
seem to fit the connector on the
back of my computer?
Connect my speakers?If you have a sound card installed,
Find the right connectors for my
USB or IEEE 1394 devices?
Locate information about the
hardware and other technical
specifications for my computer?
Find documentation for my
computer?
If your computer has the required
graphics card to support dualmonitor setup, then look in your
shipping box for a Y-cable. The
Y-cable has a single connector on one
end (plug this connector into the
back panel) and branches into two
connectors (plug these connectors
into the monitor cables).
If your graphics card has a DVI
connector but your monitor has a
VGA connector, then you need to use
an adapter. An adapter should be
included in the shipping box.
connect the speakers to the
connectors on the card. See "Setting
Up Your Computer" on page 9.
Your computer has eight USB
connectors (two on the front, one
internal, and five on the back) and an
IEEE 1394 connector on the front
and on the back. For more
information on the IEEE 1394 card,
see your User’s Guide.
Yo u r User’s Guide has a
specifications table that provides
more detailed information about
your computer and the hardware. To
locate your User’s Guide, see
"Finding Information" on page 5.
The following documentation is
available for your computer:
• User’s Guide
• Product Information Guide
• System Information Label
To locate these documents, see
"Finding Information" on page 5.
See "Setting Up Your Computer"
on page 9 for information on
connecting dual monitors to your
computer.
See "Setting Up Your Computer"
on page 9 for information on
connecting monitors to your
computer. For more information,
contact Dell. For information on
contacting Dell, see your User’s Guide.
See the documentation that came
with your speakers for more
information.
See "About Your Computer"
on page 14 for illustrations of
the front and back views of your
computer.
For help locating your User’s Guide,
see "Finding Information" on page 5.
Go to the Dell Support website at
support.dell.com and use one of the
following support tools: read white
papers on the latest technology or
communicate with other Dell users
at the Dell forum chat room.
If you lose your documentation, it is
available on the Dell Support website
at support.dell.com.