Dell JU373 User Manual

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Page 1

Dell™ Latitude™ D530

User’s Guide

Model PP17L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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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.

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Latitude, ExpressCharge, Dell TravelLite, and Undock & Go are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Core is a trademark and Intel and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, Outlook, Windows Vista, and the Windows Vista start button are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

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

Model PP17L

August 2008 P/N JU373 Rev. A03

Page 3

Contents

1 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

2 About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Left Side View

Right Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Back View

Bottom View

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

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

3 Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Transferring Information to a New Computer . . . . . 33

Microsoft

Microsoft Windows Vista

Turning Off Your Computer

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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

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

4 Using a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft

Windows® Power Meter . . . . . . . 41

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

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

Contents 3

Page 4

Charge Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Conserving Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Power Management Modes

Standby and Sleep Mode

Hibernate Mode

Configuring Power Management Settings

Accessing Power Options Properties

Charging the Battery

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

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

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

. . . . . . . 44

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

Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Storing a Battery

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

5 Using the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Key Combinations

System Functions

Battery

CD or DVD Tray

Display Functions

Wireless Networking and Bluetooth

Wireless Technology Function . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Speaker Functions

Microsoft® Windows® XP Logo Key Functions

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Logo Key Functions

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

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

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

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

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

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

. . 49

4 Contents

Touch Pad

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

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

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6 Using the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Using a Projector

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

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper . . . 53

Microsoft

Windows Vista

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

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

Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display . . . 55

Microsoft

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Windows Vista . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Using a Monitor as Your Primary Display . . . . . . . 56

Microsoft

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Windows Vista . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

7 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Playing CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Adjusting the Picture

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video and Standard Audio

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Composite Video and Standard Audio

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . 70

Component Video and Standard Audio

Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

. . 62

. . . . . . . . . . . . 65

. . . . . . . . . 66

. . . . . . . 68

. . . . . . 72

. . . . 74

. . . . 77

. . . . . . . 78

Contents 5

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8 Setting Up and Using Networks . . . . . . . 79

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable . . 79

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows

Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Vista

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

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

. . . . . . . . . 80

. 80

. . . . . . 81

Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router

and a Broadband Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Connecting to a WLAN

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

Mobile Broadband/Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

. . . . . . . . . . 86

. . . . 86

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network . . . 87

Microsoft

Windows® Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

9 Using Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Card Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Card Blanks

Extended Cards

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

6 Contents

Installing a PC Card or ExpressCard

Removing a Card or Blank

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

. . . . . . . . . . 90

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10 Securing Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Passwords

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

About Passwords

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

Using a Primary (or System) Password

Using an Administrator Password

. . . . . . . . . 95

. . . . . . 94

Using a Hard Drive Password . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Trusted Platform Module (TPM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Enabling the TPM Feature

Security Management Software

Activating the Security Management Software

Using the Security Management Software

Computer Tracking Software

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

. . . . . . . . . . . . 97

. . 98

. . . . 98

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

. . . . . . . . . . . 99

11 Cleaning Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Computer, Keyboard, and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Touch Pad

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Floppy Drive

CDs and DVDs

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

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

12 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Dell Technical Update Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Dell Diagnostics

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

Contents 7

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When to Use the Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . 103

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive 103

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Optional Drivers and Utilities Media

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

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Dell Support Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Accessing the Dell Support Utility

. . . . . . . . . 107

Clicking the Dell Support Icon . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon

. . . . . . . 108

Solving Problems

Drive Problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

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

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

. . . . . . 110

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

IEEE 1394 Device Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Lockups and Software Problems

Memory Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

. . . . . . . . . . 113

Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Power Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Scanner Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

. . . . . . . . . . . 118

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Video and Display Problems

If the display is blank

. . . . . . . . . . . . 120

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

If the display is difficult to read . . . . . . . . . . 121

If only part of the display is readable

. . . . . . . 121

13 System Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

8 Contents

Viewing the System Setup Screens

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

Page 9

System Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Commonly Used Options

Changing the Boot Sequence

Changing COM Ports

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

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

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

Enabling the Infrared Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . 126

14 Reinstalling Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

What Is a Driver?

Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems in the Microsoft

Windows Vista® Operating Systems . . . . . . . . . . 131

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

Using Dell™ PC Restore and Dell Factory

Image Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Using the Operating System Media

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

. . . . . . . . . . 128

Windows® XP and Microsoft

. . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Windows System Restore . . . . 132

. . . . . . . . 137

15 Dell™ QuickSet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

16 Traveling With Your Computer . . . . . . . 141

Identifying Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Packing the Computer

Travel Tips

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Traveling by Air

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Contents 9

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17 Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Technical Support and Customer Service

DellConnect

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

Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

AutoTech Service

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

Automated Order-Status Service

. . . . . 144

. . . . . . . . . 145

Problems With Your Order

Product Information

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit . . . . . 146

Before You Call

Contacting Dell

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

18 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

19 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

FCC Notice (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

FCC Class B

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Macrovision Product Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

Glossary 161

10 Contents

Page 11

Contents 11

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12 Contents

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Finding Information

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

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

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• Notebook System Software (NSS)

Drivers and Utilities Media

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the Drivers and Utilities media to reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 128) or to run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 103).

Readme files may be included on your media to provide last-minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technical-reference material for technicians or experienced users.

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates

can be found at support.dell.com.

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media may

be optional and may not ship with your computer.

Finding Information 13

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What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

• Basic troubleshooting information

• How to run the Dell Diagnostics

Quick Reference Guide

NOTE: This document may be optional and

may not ship with your computer.

NOTE: This document is available as a PDF

at support.dell.com.

•Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

•Safety instructions

•Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Dell™ Product Information Guide

• Specifications

• How to configure system settings

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

14 Finding Information

Dell Latitude User’s Guide

Microsoft Vista® Help and Support Center

Click

User and System Guides Guides

Click the computer.

Windows® XP and Windows

Start→

Help and Support→ Dell

→

User’s Guide

for your

System

Page 15

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows Product Key

Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License Label

NOTE: Your computer’s Service Tag and

Microsoft Windows license labels are located on your computer.

Your computer’s Service Tag contains both a Service Tag number and an Express Service Code.

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

support.dell.com

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

• Use the product key on the license label if you need to reinstall your operating system.

NOTE: As an increased security measure,

the newly designed Microsoft Windows license label incorporates a missing portion or hole to discourage removal of the label.

or contact support.

Finding Information 15

Page 16

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, online courses, and frequently asked questions

• Community — Online discussion with

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business

segment to view the appropriate support site.

other Dell customers

• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as the memory, hard drive, and operating system

• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and order status, and warranty and repair information

• Service and support — Service call status and support history, service contract, and online discussions with technical support

• Dell Technical Update Service — Proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer

• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my computer configuration, product specifications, and white papers

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates

• Notebook System Software (NSS)— If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the NSS utility. NSS automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration, providing critical updates for your operating system and support for processors, optical drives, USB devices, and so on. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer.

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

Drivers & Downloads

Enter your Service Tag or Product Type and Product Model, and click

Scroll to

Utilities Software

Select

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface

may vary depending on your selections.

and click

System and Configuration

→

Dell Notebook System

and click

Drivers & Downloads

Download Now

and click

16 Finding Information

Page 17

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints — Frequently asked questions, hot topics, and general health of your computing environment

• How to find information about my computer and its components

• How to connect to the Internet

• How to add user accounts for different people

• How to transfer files and settings from another computer

Dell Support Utility

The Dell Support Utility is an automated upgrade and notification system installed on your computer. This support provides real-time health scans of your computing environment, software updates, and relevant self-support information. Access the Dell Support Utility from the icon in the taskbar. For more information, see "Dell Support Utility

Windows Welcome Center

The Windows Welcome Center automatically appears when you use the computer for the first time. You can choose to have it appear every time you start your computer by placing a check in the Run at startup checkbox. Another method of accessing the Welcome Center is to click the Windows Vista Start button

, and then click Welcome Center

" on page 107

Finding Information 17

Page 18

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to use Microsoft Windows XP

• How to use Microsoft Windows Vista

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

Windows Help and Support

Microsoft Windows XP:

Click the

and Support

Either select one of the topics listed, or type a word or phrase that describes your problem into the arrow icon, and then click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Microsoft Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button

, and then click

Search Help

that describes your problem, and then press <Enter> or click the magnifying glass.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

• Information on network activity, the Power Management Wizard, hotkeys, and other items controlled by Dell QuickSet.

Dell QuickSet Help

To vi ew

Dell QuickSet Help, right-click the

QuickSet icon in the Microsoft Windows taskbar, and select Help. The taskbar is located in the lower-right corner of your screen.

Start

button and click

box, click the

Help and Support

, type a word or phrase

Help

18 Finding Information

Page 19

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to reinstall my operating system

Operating System Media

NOTE: The Operating System media may be

optional and may not ship with your computer.

The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the Operating System media (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 131).

After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities media to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

Your operating system product key label is located on your computer (see "Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License Label" on page 15).

NOTE: The color of your operating system

media varies according to the operating system you ordered.

Finding Information 19

Page 20

20 Finding Information

Page 21

About Your Computer

Front View

About Your Computer 21

Page 22

1 display 2 device status lights

3 keyboard 4 touch pad

5 display latch 6 speaker

7 touch pad buttons 8 keyboard status lights

9 power button

DISPLAY — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on

page 53.

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in a 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.

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

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

22 About Your Computer

Page 23

– Solid green: The battery is charging. – Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged. – Off: The battery is adequately charged (or external power is not available to charge

the battery).

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.

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

key. For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Using the Keyboard" on page 47.

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse (see "Touch Pad" on page 51).

DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed.

SPEAKER — To adjust the volume of the integrated speaker, press the volume control

buttons, mute button, or volume-control keyboard shortcuts (see "Key Combinations" on page 48").

TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Use these buttons much like the buttons on a mouse when

you use the touch pad to move the cursor on the display (see "Touch Pad" on page 51).

About Your Computer 23

Page 24

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when wireless devices are enabled.

Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.

24 About Your Computer

Page 25

Turns on when Bluetooth® wireless technology is enabled. To enable or disable Bluetooth wireless technology or other wireless devices, press

<Fn><F2>.

NOTE: Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional

feature on your computer, so the icon turns on only if Bluetooth wireless technology is installed on your computer.

For more information, see the documentation that came with your Bluetooth wireless technology.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

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

management mode (see "Power Management Modes" on page 43).

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

Windows® operating system shutdown rather than by pressing the power button.

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

Left Side View

352 41 6

1 security cable slot 2 IEEE 1394 Connector

3 PC Card/ExpressCard slot 4 infrared sensor

5 audio connectors (2) 6 hard drive

SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device

About Your Computer 25

Page 26

to the computer (see "Security Cable Lock" on page 93).

IEEE 1394 C

ONNECTOR — Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed

transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras.

ARD/EXPRESSCARD SLOT — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or

PC C

network adapter, or an ExpressCard (with a PCMCIA adapter). The computer ships with a blank installed in the slot to prevent foreign matter from entering the computer interior when a card is not installed (see "Card Types" on page 89).

INFRARED SENSOR — Lets you transfer files from your computer to another infrared-

compatible device without using cable connections. When you receive your computer, the sensor is disabled. You can use the system setup program (see "System Setup Program" on page 123) to enable the sensor. For information on transferring data, see Windows Help, the Help and Support Center, or the documentation that came with your infrared-compatible device.

AUDIO CONNECTORS

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

DRIVE — Stores software and data.

HARD

26 About Your Computer

Page 27

Right Side View

1 23

1 media bay 2 device latch release

3 USB connectors (2)

MEDIA BAY — You can install devices such as an optical drive, second battery, or a

Dell TravelLite™ module in the media bay.

DEVICE LATCH RELEASE — Press the latch release to eject any device installed in the

media bay.

CONNECTORS

USB

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

Back View

8123 4 5 6 7

About Your Computer 27

Page 28

1 USB connectors (2) 2 modem connector (RJ-11)

3 network connector (RJ-45) 4 S-video TV-out connector

5 serial connector 6 video connector

7 AC adapter connector 8 air vents

USB CONNECTORS

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

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

If you ordered the optional internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

For information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer (see "Finding Information" on page 13).

NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)

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

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

Connects the computer to a network. The two lights next to the connector indicate status and activity for wired network connections.

For information on using the network adapter, see the device user’s guide supplied with your computer.

28 About Your Computer

Page 29

S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

Connects your computer to a TV. For more information, see "Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device" on page 62.

SERIAL

CONNECTOR

Connects serial devices, such as a mouse or handheld device.

VIDEO

CONNECTOR

Connects video devices, such as a monitor.

AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR

Connects an AC adapter to the computer.

About Your Computer 29

Page 30

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.

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.

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 computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is

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

30 About Your Computer

Page 31

Bottom View

1 memory

module/modem/WLAN Mini-Card/coin-cell battery cover

3 battery charge

gauge/health gauge

5 docking-device connector 6 air vents

7 hard drive

2 battery-bay latch release

4 battery

MEMORY MODULE/MODEM/WLAN MINI-CARD/ COIN- CELL BATTERY COVER —

Covers the compartment that contains one memory module, the modem, the WLAN Mini-Card, and the coin-cell battery.

About Your Computer 31

Page 32

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE — Release the battery.

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE/ HEALTH GAUGE — Provides information on the battery

charge (see "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 40).

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

connecting the computer to an electrical outlet (see "Using a Battery" on page 39).

DOCKING-DEVICE CONNECTOR — Lets you attach your computer to a docking device.

See the Dell documentation that came with your docking device for more information.

NOTICE: Your computer features Undock & Go™ technology that allows you to

undock your computer without going into standby mode. Because the computer may not automatically go into standby mode when it is undocked, be sure the settings in the Power Options control panel do not prohibit the computer from going into standby mode. If you change the Power Options control panel to prohibit the computer from going into standby mode, you greatly increase the chances of causing your battery to wear down quickly or causing your computer to overheat.

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

vents, which prevents the computer from overheating.

NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is

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

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.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

32 About Your Computer

Page 33

Setting Up Your Computer

Transferring Information to a New Computer

You can use your operating system wizards to help you transfer files and other data from one computer to another—for example, from an old computer to a new computer. For instructions, see the following section that corresponds to the operating system that your computer is running.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

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

• E-mail messages

• Toolbar settings

•Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

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

NOTE: You can transfer information from an old computer to a new computer by

directly connecting a serial cable to the input/output (I/O) ports of the two computers. To transfer data over a serial connection, you must access the Network Connections utility from the Control Panel and perform additional configuration steps, such as setting up an advanced connection and designating the host computer and the guest computer.

For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, see Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #305621, titled How to Set Up a Direct Cable Connection Between Two Computers in Windows XP. This information may not be available in certain countries.

Setting Up Your Computer 33

Page 34

For transferring information to a new computer, you must run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. You can use the optional Operating System media for this process or you can create a wizard disk with the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System Media

NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System media. This media is optional

and may not be included with certain computers.

To prepare a new computer for the file transfer:

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

When the click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

from the Windows XP CD

When the source computer. Do

Now go to your old computer

not

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

→ Next

screen appears, go to your old or

click

at this time.

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I will use the wizard

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

additional tasks

Under

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

, click

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you

Operating System

screen, click

media.

Perform

Transfer files and settings→ Next

Old Computer→

prefer.

On the transfer and click

After the information has been copied, the

Phase

What do you want to transfer?

screen appears.

screen, select the items you want to

Completing the Collection

Click

Finish

To transfer data to the new computer:

34 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 35

On the

On the chose for transferring your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

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.

Click

Finished

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System Media

and restart the new computer.

To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the Operating System media, you must create a wizard disk that will allow you to create a backup image file to removable media.

To create a wizard disk, use your new computer with Windows XP and perform the following steps:

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

When the click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

Wizard Disk in the following drive

Insert the removable media, such as a writable CD, and click OK.

When the disk creation completes and the

computer

Go to the old computer.

message appears,

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

→

Next.

do not

click

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I want to create a

Now go to your old

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click

Start→

In the the appropriate removable media) and click

Open

Run

field on the

Run

window, browse to the path for

fastwiz

(on

Setting Up Your Computer 35

Page 36

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you

welcome screen, click

Old Computer→

prefer.

On the transfer and click

After the information has been copied, the

Phase

Click

What do you want to transfer?

screen appears.

Finish

screen, select the items you want to

Completing the Collection

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the chose for transferring your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

. Follow the

instructions on the screen.

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

appears.

Click

Finished

NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search support.dell.com for

document #154781 (What Are The Different Methods To Transfer Files From My Old

Computer To My New Dell™ Computer Using the Microsoft Operating System?).

NOTE: Access to the Dell™ Knowledge Base document may not be available in

certain countries.

Microsoft Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click

and settings

In the

User Account Control

Click

Start a new transfer

and restart the new computer.

→ Start Windows Easy Transfer.

dialog box, click

Continue a transfer in progress

Windows® XP

Continue

Tran sfe r f i le s

36 Setting Up Your Computer

screen

Page 37

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

Turning Off Your Computer

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close all open files and exit all open

programs before you turn off your computer.

Shut down the operating system:

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

In the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system

Down

→ Shut down

In the Microsoft Windows Vista® operating system,

Vista Start button , click the arrow in the lower-right corner of the Start menu as shown below, and then click

The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process is complete.

Ensure that the computer and all attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for about 4 seconds to turn them off.

, click

click the Windows

Shut Down

Start→

Shut

Setting Up Your Computer 37

Page 38

38 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 39

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product

Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer.

For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.

NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to

connect your new computer to an electrical outlet the first time you use the computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, check the Power Meter in Power Options (see "Accessing Power Options Properties" on page 44).

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. You can install an optional second battery in the media bay to significantly increase operating time.

NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases

over time. Depending on how often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer.

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

when writing to a CD or DVD.

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

•Using optical drives.

• Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, Express Cards, media memory cards, or USB devices.

• Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other powerintensive programs such as complex 3D graphics applications.

Using a Battery 39

Page 40

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 44 for information about accessing Windows Power Options Properties or Dell QuickSet, which you can use to configure power management settings.

You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low.

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

explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The 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" in the

Product Information Guide

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

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

Checking the Battery Charge

The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and battery meter icon ( or ), the battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge.

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, battery health, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer.

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

40 Using a Battery

Page 41

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, double-click the battery meter icon ( or ) on the taskbar.

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

Charge Gauge

By either pressing once or pressing and holding the status button on the charge gauge on the battery, you can check:

• Battery charge (check by pressing and

• Battery health (check by pressing and

The battery operating time is largely determined by the number of times it is charged. After hundreds of charge and discharge cycles, batteries lose some charge capacity—or battery health. That is, a battery can show a status of charged but maintain a reduced charge capacity (health).

Check the Battery Charge

To check the battery charge, press and release the status button on the battery charge gauge to illuminate the charge-level lights. Each light represents approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if the battery has 80 percent of its charge remaining, four of the lights are on. If no lights appear, the battery has no charge.

releasing

holding

the status button)

Check the Battery Health

NOTE: You can check battery health in one of two ways: by using the charge gauge

on the battery as described below and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

To check the battery health using the charge gauge, press and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See "Battery" on page 155 for more information about the battery operating time.

Using a Battery 41

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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, or install a second battery in the media bay. 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. If two batteries are installed, the low-battery warning means that the combined charge of both batteries is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer enters hibernate mode when the battery charge is at a critically low level.

You can change the settings for the battery alarms in QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 44 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.

Conserving Battery Power

Perform the following actions to conserve battery power:

• Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible because battery life is largely determined by the number of times the battery is used and recharged.

• Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time. See "Power Management Modes" on page 43.

• Use the Power Management Wizard or the window to select options to optimize your computer’s power usage. These options can also be set to change when you press the power button, close the display, or press <Fn><Esc>.

Power Options Properties

NOTE: See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 44 for information

on conserving battery power.

42 Using a Battery

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Power Management Modes

Standby and Sleep Mode

Standby mode (sleep mode in Microsoft Windows Vista®) conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a predetermined period of inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby or sleep mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby or sleep mode.

NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby or sleep

mode, it may lose data.

To enter standby mode in Windows XP, click the Start button, click Tu rn o f f computer, and then click Stand by.

To enter sleep mode in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button

, and then click Sleep.

Depending on how you set the power management options in the Power Options Properties window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, you may also use one of the following methods:

• Press the power button.

• Close the display.

• Press <Fn><Esc>.

To exit standby or sleep mode, press the power button or open the display, depending on how you set the power management options. You cannot make the computer exit standby or sleep mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad.

Hibernate Mode

Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits hibernate mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering hibernate mode.

NOTICE: You cannot remove devices or undock your computer while your

computer is in hibernate mode.

Your computer enters hibernate mode if the battery charge level becomes critically low.

Using a Battery 43

Page 44

To manually enter hibernate mode in Windows XP, click the Start button, click Tur n o f f c om p ut er, press and hold <Shift>, and then click Hibernate.

To manually enter hibernate mode in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Hibernate.

Depending on how you set the power management options in the Power Options Properties window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, you may also use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:

• Press the power button.

• Close the display.

• Press <Fn><Esc>.

NOTE: Some PC Cards or Express Cards may not operate correctly after the

computer exits hibernate mode. Remove and reinsert the card, or simply restart (reboot) your computer.

To exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit hibernate mode. You cannot make the computer exit hibernate mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad. For more information on hibernate mode, see the documentation that came with your operating system.

Configuring Power Management Settings

You can use the QuickSet Power Management Wizard or Windows Power Options Properties to configure the power management settings on your computer. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and click Help.

Accessing Power Options Properties

Windows XP

Click the Start button, point to Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance, and then click Power Options

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , click Control Panel, click System and Maintenance, and then click Power Options.

44 Using a Battery

Page 45

Charging the Battery

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.

NOTE: With Dell™ ExpressCharge™, when the computer is turned off, the AC

adapter charges a completely discharged battery to 80 percent in about 1 hour and to 100 percent in approximately 2 hours. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer for as long as you like. The battery’s internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.

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

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

For information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 116.

Replacing the Battery

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 battery is designed to work with your Dell™ computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect

the AC adapter from the electrical outlet and the computer, disconnect the modem from the wall connector and computer, and remove any other external cables from the computer.

NOTICE: You must remove all external cables from the computer to avoid possible

connector damage.

For information about replacing the second battery, which is located in the media bay, see the Service Manual for your system on support.dell.com.

To remove the battery:

Using a Battery 45

Page 46

If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.

Ensure that the computer is turned off.

Slide the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the battery from the bay.

To replace the battery, follow the removal procedure in reverse order and press down until the battery-bay latch release fully engages.

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 (see "Charging the Battery" on page 45) before you use it.

46 Using a Battery

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Using the Keyboard

Numeric Keypad

numeric keypad

The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, hold down <Fn> and press the desired key.

• To enable the keypad, press <Num Lk>. The light indicates that the keypad is active.

• To disable the keypad, press <Num Lk> again.

Using the Keyboard 47

Page 48

Key Combinations

System Functions

<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Task Manager window.

Battery

<Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery

Meter (see "Dell™ QuickSet" on page 139).

CD or DVD Tray

<Fn><F10> Ejects the tray out of the drive (if Dell

QuickSet is installed; see "Dell™ QuickSet" on page 139).

Display Functions

<Fn><F8> Switches the video image to the next

display option. The options include the integrated display, an external monitor, and both displays simultaneously.

<Fn> and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated

display only (not on an external monitor).

<Fn> and down-arrow key Decreases brightness on the integrated

display only (not on an external monitor).

Wireless Networking and Bluetooth

<Fn><F2> Enables and disables wireless networking

Wireless Technology Function

and Bluetooth wireless technology.

48 Using the Keyboard

Page 49

Power Management

<Fn><Esc> 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.

<Fn><F1> Puts the computer into hibernate mode.

Dell QuickSet is required.

Speaker Functions

<Fn><Page Up> Increases the volume of the integrated

speakers and external speakers, if attached.

<Fn><Page Dn> Decreases the volume of the integrated

speakers and external speakers, if attached.

<Fn><End> Enables and disables the integrated

speakers and external speakers, if attached.

Microsoft

Windows® XP Logo Key Functions

Windows logo key and <m> Minimizes all open windows

Windows logo key and <Shift><m> Restores all minimized windows. This key

combination functions as a toggle to restore minimized windows following the use of the Windows logo key and <m> key combination.

Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer.

Windows logo key and <r> Opens the Run dialog box.

Windows logo key and <f> Opens the Search Results dialog box.

Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f> Opens the Search Results-Computer

dialog box (if the computer is connected to a network).

Windows logo key and <Pause> Opens the System Properties dialog box.

Using the Keyboard 49

Page 50

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Logo Key Functions

Windows logo key and <TAB> Cycle through programs on the Windows

Notification area by using Windows Flip 3-D (only if using the Aero™ interface).

Ctrl+Windows logo key and <TAB>

Windows logo key and <SPACEBAR>

Windows logo key and <g> Cycles through Windows Sidebar gadgets (if using

Windows logo key and <u> Opens the Ease of Access Center.

Windows logo key and <x> Opens the Windows Mobility Center.

Windows logo key and any number key

Windows logo key and <m> Minimizes all open windows.

Windows logo key and <Shift><m>

Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer.

Windows logo key and <r> Opens the Run dialog box.

Windows logo key and <f> Opens the Search Results dialog box.

Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f>

Windows logo key and <Fn><F12>

Use the arrow keys to cycle through programs on the Windows Notification area by using Windows Flip 3-D (only if using the Aero interface).

Bring all gadgets to the front and select Windows Sidebar (if using Windows Sidebar).

Windows Sidebar).

Opens the Quick Launch shortcut that is in the position that corresponds to the number. For example, use the Windows logo key and <1> to launch the first shortcut in the Quick Launch menu.

Restores all minimized windows. This key combination functions as a toggle to restore minimized windows following the use of the Windows logo key and <m> key combination.

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

Opens the System Properties dialog box.

50 Using the Keyboard

Page 51

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see Windows Help and Support. To access Help and Support, see "Windows Help and Support" on page 18.

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.

1 touch pad 2 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.

Using the Keyboard 51

Page 52

• To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad. On the second tap, 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.

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

Click

Start→

See the Windows Help and Support for information about the Control Panel,. To access Windows Help and Support, see "Windows Help and Support" on page 18.

In the

•Click the

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Control Panel→

Mouse Properties

Device Select

Tou c h Pad

Printers and Other Hardware→

window:

tab to disable the touch pad and track stick.

tab to adjust touch pad and track stick settings.

Mouse

52 Using the Keyboard

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Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the display brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard.

NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable

computer, not monitors or projectors that you attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter may appear, but the brightness level on the external device does not change.

You can press the following keys to adjust display brightness:

• Press <Fn> and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

• Press <Fn> and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

Using a Projector

When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector) attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the external device.

Press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously.

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper

NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image

may appear blurry or text may be hard to read if you change the resolution to one not supported by your computer and display. Before you change any of the display settings, make a note of the current settings so you can change back to the previous settings if you need to.

Using the Display 53

Page 54

You can enhance the legibility of text and change the appearance of images on the screen by adjusting display resolution. As you increase resolution, items appear smaller on the screen. In contrast, lower resolution causes text and images to appear larger and can benefit people with vision impairments. To display a program at a specific resolution, both the video card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.

NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the

best performance with your Dell-installed operating system.

If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values.

To set the display resolution and refresh rate for your display, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Click

Start→

Under

Control Panel icon

In the

Try different settings for

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task...

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under , click

Display Properties

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Display

window, click the

Color quality

Settings

and

Screen resolution

or pick a

tab.

NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen.

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

In the

Appearance and Personalization

Display Settings

window, under

Control Panel

, click

Adjust screen resolution

Resolution

, slide the slide bar to

the left/right to decrease/increase the screen resolution.

Click

How do I get the best display?

for further instructions.

If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode. In pan mode, the entire video image cannot be displayed at one time, and the taskbar that usually appears at the bottom of

54 Using the Display

Page 55

the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the parts of the video image that are not visible, you can use the touch pad or track stick to pan (or move) the image up, down, left, and right.

NOTICE: You can damage an external monitor by using an unsupported refresh

rate. Before adjusting the refresh rate on an external monitor, see the user’s guide for the monitor.

Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display

You can attach an external monitor or projector to your computer and use it as an extension of your display (known as dual independent display or extended desktop mode). This mode allows you to use both screens independently and drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

To use extended desktop mode, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

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

Click

Start→

Under

Control Panel icon

In the

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display Properties

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

, click

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Display

window, click the

Settings

or pick a

tab.

NOTE: If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display

supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values. For more information, see your operating system documentation.

Click the monitor 2 icon, click the box, and then click

Change

Apply

If prompted to restart the computer, click

without restarting

If prompted, click OK to resize your desktop.

Screen Area

Apply

to the appropriate sizes for both displays and click

and click OK.

Extend my Windows desktop...

Apply the new color setting

Using the Display 55

check

Page 56

If prompted, click

Click OK to close the

To disable dual independent display mode:

Click the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the

this monitor

If necessary, press <Fn><F8> to bring the screen image back to the computer display.

Settings

Yes

to keep the settings.

Display Properties

tab in the

option, and then click

Display Properties

window.

Extend my Windows desktop onto

Apply

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

the desktop onto this monitor

Click OK to close the

To disable extended desktop mode:

In the

Display Settings

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the

monitor

option, and then click

window, click the monitor 2 icon, click the

Display Settings

window, click the

check box, and then click

Apply

, click

window.

Extend the desktop onto this

Settings

Control Panel

Adjust screen resolution

Apply

tab.

Extend

Using a Monitor as Your Primary Display

To swap your primary and secondary display designations (for example, to use your external monitor as your primary display after docking), perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Click the

Under

Control Panel icon

Click the

56 Using the Display

Start

button and click

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Settings

, click the area you want to change, or under , click

tab→

Control Panel

, click

Appearance and Themes

Display

Advanced→

Displays

or pick a

tab.

Page 57

See the documentation that came with your video card for additional information.

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

my main monitor

Click OK to close the

window, click the monitor 2 icon, click the

check box, and then click

Display Settings

, click

window.

Apply

Control Panel

Adjust screen resolution

This is

Using the Display 57

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58 Using the Display

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Playing CDs or DVDs

NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD/DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep

the tray closed when you are not using the drive.

NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing CDs or DVDs.

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

Pull out the tray.

Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray and snap the disc onto the spindle.

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NOTE: If you use a module that shipped with another computer, you need to install

the drivers and software necessary to play DVDs or write data. For more information, see the Drivers and Utilities media (the Drivers and Utilities media is optional and may not be available for your computer or in certain countries).

Push the tray back into the drive.

To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer.

NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

Play.

Move backward within the current track.

Pau se.

Move forward within the current track.

Stop.

Go to the previous track.

Eject.

Go to the next track.

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:

60 Using Multimedia

Stop.

Restart the current chapter.

Play.

Fast forward.

Pau se.

Fast reverse.

Advance a single frame while in pause mode.

Go to the next title or chapter.

Continuously play the current title or chapter.

Go to the previous title or chapter.

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Eject.

For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.

Open the

Click and drag the bar in the down to increase or decrease the volume.

For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.

The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select or deselect Disable On Screen Volume Meter, or press the volume control buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.

Volu me C on t ro l

window.

Volum e Con tro l

column and slide it up or

1 volume icon 2 Volume Meter

3 mute icon

When the meter is enabled, adjust the volume with the volume control buttons or by pressing the following keys:

• Press <Fn> <PageUp> to increase volume.

• Press <Fn> <PageDn> to decrease volume.

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• Press <Fn> <End> to mute volume.

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

Adjusting the Picture

If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties.

Microsoft Windows XP

Click

Start→

Under

Under setting.

In the drop-down menu under click

Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System

Click the Windows Vista Start button , click click

Appearance and Personalization

Under

The

Display Properties

Control Panel→ Appearance and Themes

Pick a task...

Screen resolution

Personalization

, click

Change the screen resolution

, click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution

Color quality

, click

Adjust Screen Resolution

window appears.

, click

Medium (16 bit)

Control Panel

and

, and then

Under

Resolution:

In the drop-down menu under

Click OK.

click and drag the bar reduce the resolution setting.

Colors:

, click

Medium (16 bit)

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio

device may not be included with your computer. Cables and TV/digital audio adapter cables are available for purchase from Dell.

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Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with a standard S-video cable, a composite video adapter cable, or a component video adapter cable (available from Dell), enable you to connect the computer to a TV.

Your TV has either an S-video input connector, a composite video-input connector, or a component video-input connector. Depending on what type of connector is available on your TV, you can use a commercially available S-video cable, composite video cable, or component video cable to connect your computer to your TV.

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 S-video connector

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter

3 S/PDIF digital audio

connector

5 S-video connector

4 composite video-output

connector

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1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter

3 S/PDIF digital audio

connector

5 Pb (blue) component video-

output connector

4 Pr (red) component video-

output connector

6 Y (green) component video-

output connector

If you want to connect your computer to a TV or audio device, it is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the following combinations.

• S-video and standard audio

• Composite video and standard audio

• Component-out video and standard audio

NOTE: See the diagrams at the beginning of each subsection to help you determine

which method of connection you should use.

When you finish connecting the video and audio cables between your computer and your TV, you must enable your computer to work with the TV. See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. Additionally, if you are using S/PDIF digital audio, see "Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio" on page 76.

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S-Video and Standard Audio

1 audio connector 2 S-video TV-out connector

1 standard S-video cable 2 standard audio cable

Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.

NOTE: If your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio, you

can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer (without the TV/digital audio adapter cable).

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

Plug the other end of the S-video cable into the S-video input connector on your TV.

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Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on your computer.

Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device.

Turn on the TV and any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer.

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter

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1 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable

3 S/PDIF digital audio cable

Turn off the computer and the TV and/or the audio device that you want to connect.

Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.

Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the composite video adapter.

1 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable

Plug the other end of the S-video cable into the S-video input connector

on the TV.

Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the digital audio connector on the composite video adapter cable.

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1 2

1 composite video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable

Plug the other end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the audio input connector on your TV or audio device.

Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer.

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Composite Video and Standard Audio

1 audio input connector 2 S-video TV-out connector

3 composite video adapter

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1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable

3 standard audio cable

Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.

Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.

Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite videooutput connector on the composite video adapter.

1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable

Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite videoinput connector on the TV.

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

Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device.

Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer.

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter

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1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable

3 standard audio cable

Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.

Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.

Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the composite video adapter.

1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable

Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite videoinput connector on the TV.

Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the S/PDIF audio connector on the composite video adapter.

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1 2

1 composite video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable

Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device.

Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer.

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Component Video and Standard Audio

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter

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1 component video adapter 2 component video cable

3 standard audio cable

Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.

Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.

Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the corresponding adapter ports.

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1 component video adapter 2 component video cable

Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable into the component video-input connectors on the TV. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the colors of the TV input connectors.

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

Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on your TV or audio device.

Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer.

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter

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1 component video adapter 2 component video cable

3 standard audio cable

Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.

Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.

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1 component video adapter 2 component video-output

connectors

3 component video cable

Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the S/PDIF audio connector on the component video adapter.

1 component video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable

Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device.

Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer.

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio

If your computer has a DVD drive, you can enable digital audio for DVD playback.

Launch the

Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.

Cyberlink PowerDVD

application.

If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.

Click the

Settings

option.

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Click the

Click the arrows beside the through the options, and select the

Click the

DVD

option.

DVD Audio Setting

icon.

Speaker Configuration

Back

button once, and then click the

SPDIF

option.

Back

setting to scroll

button again to

return to the main menu screen.

Enabling S/PDIF in the Windows Audio Driver

Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area.

Click the

Click

Click OK.

Options

Advanced

menu and then click

S/PDIF Interface

Advanced Controls

Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones

NOTE: The CL headphone feature is available only if your computer has a DVD

drive.

If your computer has a DVD drive, you can enable digital audio for DVD playback.

Launch the

Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.

If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.

Cyberlink PowerDVD

program.

Click the

Click the arrows beside the

Settings

DVD

option.

DVD Audio Setting

through the options, and select the

Click the arrows beside the the options, and select the

Click the arrows beside the

Audio listening mode

CL Headphone

the most suitable option.

icon.

Speaker Configuration

Headphones

setting to scroll

option.

setting to scroll through

option.

Dynamic range compression

Using Multimedia 77

option to select

Page 78

Click the

Back

button once, and then click the

Back

button again to

return to the main menu screen.

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the

computer before you enable the display settings.

Microsoft Windows XP

Click the

Double-click

Click

Click the tab for your video card.

NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see the

Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, click Start information and diagnose problems. Then, under My Computer Information, select Hardware.

In the display devices section, select the appropriate option for using either a single display or multiple displays, ensuring that the display settings are correct for your selection.

Microsoft Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , click click

Under

The

Start

Display

Advanced

button, point to

and click the

Settings

, and then click

tab.

Control Panel

→ Help and Support. Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view your computer

Control Panel

Appearance and Personalization

Personalization

Display Properties

, click

Adjust Screen Resolution

window appears.

, and then

Click

Advanced

Click the tab for your video card.

NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see the

Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems. Then, under My Computer Information, select Hardware.

In the display devices section, select the appropriate option for using

→

Help and Support.

either a single display or multiple displays, ensuring that the display settings are correct for your selection.

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Setting Up and Using Networks

Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer, or a network. For example, with a network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer, access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or access the Internet. You can set up a local area network (LAN) using a network or broadband modem cable or set up a wireless LAN (WLAN).

The Microsoft Windows systems provide wizards to help guide you through the process of networking computers. For more information about Networking, see Windows Help and Support (see "Windows Help and Support" on page 18).

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

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

Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.

XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® operating

NOTE: Insert the cable connector until it clicks into place, and then gently

pull the cable to ensure that it is securely attached.

Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device or a network wall connector.

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

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Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft® Windows

Click

Setup Wizard

Complete the checklist.

Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions in the wizard.

XP Operating System

Start→

NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects

directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2).

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications→

→

Next→ Checklist for creating a network

Network

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista

Operating System

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click

Set up a connection or network

Select an option under

Click

, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

Choose a connection option

Connect To→

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

A WLAN is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each computer. In a WLAN, a radio communications device called an access point or wireless router connects network computers and provides Internet, or network, access. The access point or wireless router and the wireless network card in the computer communicate by broadcasting data from their antennas over the air waves.

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:

• High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL)

• A broadband modem that is connected and working

• A wireless router or access point

80 Setting Up and Using Networks

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• A wireless network card for each computer that you want to connect to

your WLAN

• A network cable with a network (RJ-45) connector

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To confirm that your computer has a wireless network card and to determine the type of card, use one of the following:

•The

• The order confirmation for your computer

Start Button and Connect To Option

In Microsoft Windows XP, click Start→ Connect To→ Show all connections.

In Microsoft Windows Vista, click → Connect To→ View network

computers and devices.

If Wireless Network Connection does not appear under LAN or High-Speed Internet, you may not have a wireless network card.

If Wireless Network Connection appears, you have a wireless network card. To view detailed information about the wireless network card:

Start

button and the

NOTE: If your computer is set to the Classic Start menu option, click Start→

Settings→ Network Connections to view your network connections.

Right-click

Click

The

Wireless Network Connection

Properties

Wireless Network Connection Properties

wireless network card’s name and model number are listed on the

Connect To

option

window appears. The

General

tab.

NOTE: If Wireless Network Connection does not appear, you may not have a

wireless network card.

The Order Confirmation for Your Computer

The order confirmation that you received when you ordered your computer lists the hardware and software that shipped with your computer.

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Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem

Contact your Internet service provider (ISP) to obtain specific information about the connection requirements for your broadband modem.

Ensure that you have wired Internet access through your broadband modem before you attempt to set up a wireless Internet connection (see "Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable" on page 79).

Install any software required for your wireless router. Your wireless router may have been shipped with an installation CD. Installation CDs usually contain installation and troubleshooting information. Install the required software according to the instructions provided by the router manufacturer.

Shut down your computer and any other wireless-enabled computers in the vicinity through the

Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.

Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem.

Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that there is no power connected to the router.

NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband

modem before you continue with the network setup.

Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered broadband modem.

Connect the other end of the network cable into the Internet network (RJ-

45) connector on the unpowered wireless router.

Ensure that no network or USB cables, other than the network cable connecting the modem and the wireless router, are connected to the broadband modem.

Start

or menu.

NOTE: Restart your wireless equipment in the order described below to prevent a

potential connection failure.

Tur n o n

only

your broadband modem and wait for at least 2 minutes for

the broadband modem to stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to step 12.

Turn on your wireless router and wait for at least 2 minutes for the wireless router to stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to the step 13.

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Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.

See the documentation that came with your wireless router to do the following in order to set up the wireless router:

• Establish communication between your computer and your wireless router.

• Configure your wireless router to communicate with your broadband router.

• Find out your wireless router’s broadcast name. The technical term for the name of your router’s broadcast name is Service Set Identifier (SSID) or network name.

If necessary, configure your wireless network card to connect to the wireless network (see "Connecting to a WLAN" on page 83).

Connecting to a WLAN

NOTE: Before you connect to a WLAN, ensure that you have followed the

instructions in "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 80.

NOTE: The following networking instructions do not apply to internal cards with

Bluetooth® wireless technology or cellular products.

This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary. See "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 80 for more information about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.

Your wireless network card requires specific software and drivers for connecting to a network. The software is already installed.

NOTE: If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions in the user

documentation for your wireless network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on page 81.

Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager

Depending on the software installed on your computer, different wireless configuration utilities may manage your network devices:

• Your wireless network card’s client utility

Setting Up and Using Networks 83

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• The Windows XP or Windows Vista operating system

To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network card in Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Right-click the

Available Wireless Networks

Settings→

Control Panel→

Wireless Network Connection

Network Connections

icon, and then click

View

If the Choose a wireless network window states Windows cannot configure this connection, the wireless network card’s client utility is managing the

wireless network card.

If the Choose a wireless network window states Click an item in the list below to connect to a wireless network in range or to get more information, the Windows XP operating system is managing the wireless network card.

To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network card in Windows Vista:

Click

Double-click a profile to open the wireless network properties screen.

→

Connect To→ Manage wireless networks.

For specific information about the wireless configuration utility installed on your computer, see your wireless network documentation in Windows Help and Support (see "Windows Help and Support" on page 18).

Completing the Connection to the WLAN

When you turn on your computer and a network (for which your computer is not configured) is detected in the area, a pop-up appears near the network icon in the notification area (in the lower-right corner of the Windows desktop).

Follow the instructions provided in any utility prompts that appear on your screen.

Once you have configured your computer for the wireless network that you selected, another pop-up notifies you that your computer is connected to that network.

Thereafter, whenever you log on to your computer within the range of the wireless network that you selected, the same pop-up notifies you of the wireless network connection.

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NOTE: If you select a secure network, you must enter a WEP or WPA key when

prompted. Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information.

NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.

Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card

NOTE: If you are unable to connect to a wireless network, ensure that you have all

the components for establishing a WLAN (see "What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection" on page 80), and then verify that your wireless network card is enabled by pressing <Fn><F2>.

You can turn your computer’s wireless networking function on and off by pressing the <Fn><F2> key combination.

Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet

The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. To turn the wireless activity indicator on or off, click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Hotkey Popups. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is not checked, the indicator is on. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is checked, the indicator is off.

The wireless activity indicator displays whether your computer’s integrated wireless devices are enabled or disabled. When you turn the wireless networking function on or off, the wireless activity indicator changes to display the status.

For more information about the Dell QuickSet wireless activity indicator, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Help.

Mobile Broadband/Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

A Mobile Broadband network, also known as a Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN), is a high-speed digital cellular network that provides Internet access over a much wider geographical area than a WLAN, which typically covers only from 100 to 1000 feet. Your computer can maintain Mobile Broadband network access as long as the computer is within a cellular-data coverage zone. Contact your service provider for coverage of a high-speed digital cellular network.

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NOTE: Even if you are able to make a call from your cellular phone in a specific

geographical location, that location may not necessarily be within a cellular-data coverage zone.

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

NOTE: Depending on your computer, you can use either a Mobile Broadband

ExpressCard or Mini-Card, but not both, to establish a Mobile Broadband network connection.

To set up a Mobile Broadband network connection, you need:

• A Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or Mini-Card (depending on your computer’s configuration)

NOTE: For instructions on using ExpressCards, see "Using Cards" on page 89.

• An activated Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or activated Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) for your service provider

• The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility (already installed on your computer if you purchased the card when you purchased your computer, or on the CD that accompanied your card if purchased separately from your computer)

If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide for instructions. The user’s guide is available through Windows Help and Support (see "Windows Help and Support" on page 18) or on the CD that accompanied your card if you purchased it separately from your computer.

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To determine your computer configuration, see one of the following:

• Your order confirmation

• Microsoft Windows Help and Support Center

To check your Mobile Broadband card in the Windows Help and Support Center:

Click

Start→

information and diagnose problems

86 Setting Up and Using Networks

Help and Support→

Use Tools to view your computer

Page 87

Under

Tools

, click

My Computer Information→

the hardware installed on this computer.

On the My Computer Information - Hardware screen, you can view the type of Mobile Broadband card installed in your computer as well as other hardware components.

NOTE: The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems.

Find information about

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mobile Broadband ExpressCards or Mini-

Cards. They do not apply to internal cards with wireless technology.

NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate Mobile Broadband

service through your cellular service provider. For instructions and for additional information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide available through Windows Help and Support (see "Windows Help and Support" on page 18). The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and on the CD included with your Mobile Broadband card if you purchased the card separately from your computer.

Use the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility to establish and manage a Mobile Broadband network connection to the Internet:

Click the desktop, to run the utility.

Click

Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon

Connect

on the Windows

NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button.

Follow the instructions on the screen to manage the network connection with the utility.

Click

Start→ All Programs→

Click

Dell Wireless Broadband

Microsoft

Windows Firewall provides basic protection from unauthorized access to your computer while it is connected to the Internet. Windows Firewall is automatically enabled when you run the Network Setup Wizard.

Windows

Dell Wireless

and follow the instructions on the screen.

Firewall

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When Windows Firewall is enabled for a network connection, the firewall icon appears with a red background in the Network Connections section of the Control Panel.

NOTE: Enabling Windows Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking

software.

For more information, click

Firewall

, or see "Windows Help and Support" on page 18

Start→ Control Panel→ Security→ Windows

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Using Cards

Card Types

See "Specifications" on page 151 for information on supported PC Cards.

1 32

1 54-mm ExpressCard (not

supported by your computer)

3 PC Card (supported by

your computer)

NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device.

The PC Card slot has one connector that supports a single Type I or Type II card. The PC Card slot supports CardBus technology and extended PC Cards. Ty p e of card refers to its thickness, not its functionality.

2 34-mm ExpressCard

(supported, with an adapter)

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Card Blanks

Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the card slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no card is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer.

To remove the blank, see "Removing a Card or Blank" on page 92.

Extended Cards

An extended card (for example, a wireless network adapter) is longer than a standard card and extends outside the computer. Follow these precautions when using extended cards:

• Protect the exposed end of an installed card. Striking the end of the card can damage the system board.

• Always remove an extended PC Card before you pack the computer in its carrying case.

Installing a PC Card or ExpressCard

You can install a PC Card or a 34-mm ExpressCard (with an adapter) in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card.

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

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

safety instructions in the

To in s ta l l a P C C a rd:

Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the slot and the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need to be in the before you insert the card.

Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.

90 Using Cards

Product Information Guide

position

Page 91

If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again.

The computer recognizes most PC Cards and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the floppy disk or CD that came with the PC Card.

To install an ExpressCard:

NOTE: Your computer supports a 34-mm ExpressCard only with the use of an

adapter. Your computer does not support the use of 54-mm ExpressCards.

With the 34-mm ExpressCard inserted into its adapter, hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the PC Card/ExpressCard slot and the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need to be in the

position

before you insert the card.

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Slide the adapter into the card slot until the adapter is completely seated in its connector.

If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the adapter. Check the ExpressCard and adapter orientation and try again.

The computer recognizes most cards and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the floppy disk or CD that came with the card.

Removing a Card or Blank

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

safety instructions in your

NOTICE: Click the icon in the taskbar to select a card and stop it from

functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration utility, you could lose data. Do not attempt to eject a card by pulling its cable, if one is attached.

Product Information Guide

Press the release latch and remove the card or blank. For some release latches, you must press the latch twice: once to pop the latch out, and then a second time to pop the card out.

Save a blank to use when no PC Card is installed in a slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles.

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Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock

NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock.

A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell™ 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 on your computer.

Passwords

About Passwords

NOTE: Passwords are disabled when you receive your computer.

A primary (or system) password, an administrator password, and a hard drive password all prevent unauthorized access to your computer in different ways. The following table identifies types and features of passwords available on your computer.

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Type of Password Features

Primary (or system)

Administrator

Hard drive

NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or

hard drive. However, they are not foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as smart cards, data encryption programs, or PC Cards with encryption features.

NOTE: Some hard drives do not support hard drive passwords.

• Protects the computer from unauthorized access

• Gives system administrators or service technicians access to computers for repair or reconfiguration

• Allows you to restrict access to system setup in the same way a primary password restricts access to the computer

• Can be used instead of the primary password

• Helps protect the data on your hard drive or external hard drive (if one is being used) from unauthorized access

When using passwords, observe the following guidelines:

• Choose passwords that you can remember, but not ones that are easy to guess. For example, do not use the names of family members or pets for passwords.

• It is recommended that you do not write down passwords. If you do write it down, however, ensure that the password is stored in a secure place.

• Do not share passwords with other people.

• Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password(s).

If you forget any of your passwords, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 149). For your protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.

Using a Primary (or System) Password

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

When you first start your computer, you must assign a primary password at the prompt.

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If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state.

NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also

disabled.

To add or change passwords, access User Accounts from the Control Panel.

If you have assigned an administrator password, you can use it instead of the primary password. The computer does not specifically prompt you for the administrator password.

Using an Administrator Password

The administrator password is designed to give system administrators or service technicians access to computers for repair or reconfiguration. The administrators or technicians can assign identical administrator passwords to groups of computers, allowing you to assign a unique primary password.

To set or change administrator passwords, access User Accounts from the Control Panel.

When you set an administrator password, the Configure Setup option becomes available in system setup. The Configure Setup option allows you to restrict access to system setup in the same way that a primary password restricts access to the computer.

The administrator password can be used instead of the primary password. Whenever you are prompted to enter the primary password, you can enter the administrator password.

NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also

disabled.

NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the computer, but it does

not provide access to the hard drive when a hard drive password is assigned.

If you forget the primary password and do not have an administrator password assigned, or if you have both a primary and an administrator password assigned but forget them both, contact your system administrator or contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 149).

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Using a Hard Drive Password

The hard drive password helps protect the data on your hard drive from unauthorized access. You can also assign a password for an external hard drive (if one is being used) that can be the same as or different from the password for the primary hard drive.

To assign or change a hard drive password, enter system setup (see "System Setup Program" on page 123).

After assigning a hard drive password, you must enter it each time you turn on the computer and each time you restore the computer to normal operation from standby mode.

If the hard drive password is enabled, you must enter it each time you turn on the computer: A message appears asking for the hard drive password.

To continue, enter your password (with no more than eight characters) and press <Enter>.

If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state.

If you enter the wrong password, a message tells you that the password is invalid. Press <Enter> to try again.

If you do not enter the correct password in three attempts, the computer tries to start from another bootable device if the Boot First Device option in system setup is set to allow start-up from another device. If the Boot First Device option is not set to allow the computer to start from another device, the computer returns to the operating state it was in when you turned it on.

If the hard drive password, the external hard-drive password, and the primary password are the same, the computer prompts you only for the primary password. If the hard drive password is different from the primary password, the computer prompts you for both. Two different passwords provide greater security.

NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the computer, but it does

not provide access to the hard drive when a hard drive password is assigned.

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

NOTE: Computers shipping into China and Russia are not equipped with the TPM

feature.

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NOTE: The TPM feature supports encryption only if the operating system supports

TPM. For more information, see the TPM software documentation and the help files that came with the software.

TPM is a hardware-based security feature that can be used to create and manage computer-generated encryption keys. When combined with security software, the TPM enhances existing network and computer security by enabling features such as file protection capabilities and protected e-mail. The TPM feature is enabled through a system setup option.

NOTICE: To secure your TPM data and encryption keys, follow the backup

procedures documented in the Broadcom Secure Foundation Getting Started Guide. In the event of these backups being incomplete, lost, or damaged, Dell will be unable to assist in the recovery of encrypted data.

Enabling the TPM Feature

Enable the TPM software:

Restart the computer and press <F2> during the Power On Self Test to enter the system setup program.

Select

Security→

Under

TPM Security

Press <Esc> to exit the setup program.

If prompted, click

Activate the TPM setup program:

Restart the computer and press <F2> during the Power On Self Test to enter the system setup program.

Select

Security→

Under

TPM Activation

TPM Security

and press <Enter>.

, select On.

Save/Exit

TPM Activation

, select

Activate

and press <Enter>.

NOTE: You only need to activate the program once.

Once the process is complete, the computer either restarts automatically or prompts you to restart your computer.

Security Management Software

The security management software is designed to utilize four different features to help you secure your computer:

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• Log-in management

• Pre-boot authentication (using a fingerprint reader, smart card, or password)

•Encryption

• Private information management

Activating the Security Management Software

NOTE: You must first enable the TPM in order for the security management

software to have full functionality.

Enable the TPM feature (see "Enabling the TPM Feature" on page 97).

Load the security management software:

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> 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.

In the drop-down menu, select <Enter> to create the icons for the software components on the computer desktop.

Press <Esc> to exit the setup program.

If prompted, click

Save/Exit

Wave EMBASSY Trust Suite

and press

Using the Security Management Software

For information about how to use the software and the different security features, see the Getting Started Guide for the software:

Click Start

Guide

→

All Programs→ Wave EMBASSY Trust Suite→ Getting Started

Computer Tracking Software

Computer tracking software may enable you to locate your computer if it is lost or stolen. The software is optional and may be purchased when you order your Dell™ computer, or you can contact your Dell sales representative for information about this security feature.

NOTE: Computer tracking software may not be available in certain countries.

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NOTE: If you have computer tracking software and your computer is lost or stolen,

you must contact the company that provides the tracking service to report the missing computer.

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

• Call a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer. Include the Service Tag in your description of the computer. Ask that a case number be assigned and write down the number, along with the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. If possible, obtain the name of the investigating officer.

NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement

agency in that area. If you do not know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.

• If the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of the company.

• Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer. Provide the computer Service Tag, the case number, and the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency to which you reported the missing computer. If possible, give the name of the investigating officer.

The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the computer Service Tag and record the computer as missing or stolen. If someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives your Service Tag, the computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen. The representative will attempt to get the phone number and address of the caller. Dell will then contact the law enforcement agency to which you reported the missing computer.

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100 Securing Your Computer

Dell JU373 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Finding Information

About Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Setting Up Your Computer

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Turning Off Your Computer

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

Charge Gauge

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Power Management Modes

Standby and Sleep Mode

Hibernate Mode

Configuring Power Management Settings

Accessing Power Options Properties

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

Using the Keyboard

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

System Functions

Battery

CD or DVD Tray

Display Functions

Power Management

Speaker Functions

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Logo Key Functions

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

Using a Projector

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Windows Vista

Using a Monitor as Your Primary Display

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Windows Vista

Using Multimedia

Playing CDs or DVDs

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video and Standard Audio

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Composite Video and Standard Audio

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Component Video and Standard Audio

Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

Setting Up and Using Networks

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem

Connecting to a WLAN

Mobile Broadband/Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

Using Cards

Card Types