Dell Latitude C106C, Precision M2400 Quick Reference Manual

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Dell™ Precision™

Mobile Workstation M2400

Setup and Quick Reference Guide

This guide provides a features overview, specifications, quick setup, software,

and troubleshooting information for your computer. For more information about

your operating system, devices, and technologies, see the

Dell™ Technology Guide at support.dell.com.

Model PP27L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Page 2

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.

A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

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

Windows® operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, DellConnect, Dell MediaDirect, Latitude, Wi-Fi Catcher, ExpressCharge, and the DELL logo are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and is used by Dell under license; Intel is a registered trademark and

Core is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries; Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and the Windows Vista start button logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of

Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries; TouchStrip is a trademark of UPEK, Inc.

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 PP27L

May 2008 P/N C106C Rev. A00

Page 3

Contents

1 About Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Back View

Bottom View

Battery Removal

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Wireless Switch and Dell™ Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

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

2 Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Quick Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft System

Windows Vista® Operating

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

Microsoft Windows

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

. . . . . . . . 16

. . . . . . 17

XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Contents 3

Page 4

3 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

4 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Power Lights

Beep Codes

Error Messages

System Messages

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

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

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

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

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems

Dell Diagnostics

Troubleshooting Tips

Power Problems

Memory Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

Dell Technical Update Service

Dell Support Utility

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

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

. . . . . . . . . . 44

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

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

5 Reinstalling Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Identifying Drivers

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

Using Dell™ Factory Image Restore

Using the Operating System Media

4 Contents

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

. . . . . . . . . . 50

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

Windows® System Restore . . . 52

. . . . . . . . 54

. . . . . . . . . 55

Page 5

6 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

7 Getting Help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Technical Support and Customer Service

DellConnect™

Online Services

AutoTech Service

Automated Order-Status Service

Problems With Your Order

Product Information

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . 61

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

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

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Before You Call

Contacting Dell

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

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

. . . . . 60

. . . . . 62

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Contents 5

Page 6

6 Contents

Page 7

About Your Computer

Front View

1 microphone (optional) 2 camera light (optional)

3 camera (optional) 4 display latch

5 display 6 keyboard status lights

About Your Computer 7

Page 8

7 volume control buttons 8 power button

9 USB connectors (2) 10 Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network

Locator

11 wireless switch 12 audio connectors (2)

13 right speaker 14 media bay (with optical drive)

15 fingerprint reader (optional) 16 ExpressCard slot

17 IEEE 1394a connector 18 contactless smart-card reader

19 Secure Digital (SD) memory-

20 touch pad

card reader

21 display latch release 22 touch pad buttons/track stick

buttons

23 left speaker 24 track stick

25 keyboard 26 device status lights

27 ambient light sensor

8 About Your Computer

Page 9

Back View

1 RJ-11 connector (optional) 2 RJ-45 network connector

3 battery/power lights 4 multimode DisplayPort

5 AC adapter 6 security cable slot

7 video connector 8 eSATA/USB connector

9 USB PowerShare connector 10 smart card Reader

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

vents. Do not store your Dell™ 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. 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.

About Your Computer 9

Page 10

Bottom View

1 battery charge gauge 2 air vents

3 battery latch release 4 battery

5 docking device connector

Battery Removal

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

safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

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 removing or replacing the battery, 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.

10 About Your Computer

Page 11

Wireless Switch and Dell™ Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

wireless switch icon

Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator icon

Use the wireless switch to enable or disable wireless network devices and the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator to locate networks. For information about connecting to the Internet, see "Connecting to the Internet" on page 16.

About Your Computer 11

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12 About Your Computer

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Setting Up Your Computer

Quick Setup

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

safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

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. When you wrap the AC adapter cable, ensure that you follow the angle of the connector on the AC adapter to avoid damaging the cable.

NOTE: Some devices may not be included if you did not order them.

Connect the AC adapter to the AC adapter connector on the computer and to the electrical outlet.

Setting Up Your Computer 13

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Connect the network cable.

Connect USB devices such as a mouse or keyboard.

Connect IEEE 1394 devices, such as a DVD player.

Open the computer display and press the power button to turn on the computer.

14 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 15

NOTE: It is recommended that you turn on and shut down your computer at least

once before you install any cards or connect the computer to a docking device or other external device, such as a printer.

Connect to the Internet. See "Connecting to the Internet" on page 16 for more information.

1 Internet service 2 cable or DSL modem

3 wireless router 4 laptop with wired connection

5 laptop with wireless connection

Setting Up Your Computer 15

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Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall connector before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem connection, contact your ISP or cellular phone service for setup instructions.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an Internet connection with a desktop shortcut provided by your ISP:

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

Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP, perform the steps in the appropriate section below.

NOTE: If you cannot connect to the Internet, see the Dell Technology Guide. If you

have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

NOTE: Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, consult the

Connect to the Internet wizard.

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating System

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

Click the Windows Vista Start button

Under

In the or

• Choose

Network and Internet,

Connect to the Internet

Dial-up

, depending on how you want to connect:

Broadband

click

if you will use a DSL, satellite modem, cable TV

Connect to the Internet

window, click either

→

Control Panel

Broadband (PPPoE)

modem, or Bluetooth wireless technology connection.

• Chose

Dial-up

if you will use a dial-up modem or ISDN.

16 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 17

NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose

or contact your ISP.

Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

Microsoft Windows® XP

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

Click

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

Start→

Internet Explorer→ Connect to the Internet

• If you do not have an ISP, click

providers (ISPs)

Choose from a list of Internet service

• If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click

• If you have a setup CD, click

Click

If you selected

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

in step 3, continue to

step 5. Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

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

Click the appropriate option under

Internet?

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

, and click

How do you want to connect to the

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating System

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click

and settings

In the

Click

Follow the instructions provided on the screen by the Windows Easy

Start a new transfer

Transfer wizard.

→ Start Windows Easy Transfer.

User Account Control

dialog box, click

Continue a transfer in progress

Setting Up Your Computer 17

Continue

Transfer files

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Microsoft Windows® XP

Windows XP provides the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data from a source computer to a new computer.

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. 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.

For transferring information to a new computer, you must run 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

click

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

→ Next

screen appears, go to your old or

at this time.

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

additional tasks

Under

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

, click

Transfer files and settings→ Next

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I will use the wizard

Operating System

screen, click

Perform

media.

On the

Which computer is this?

18 Setting Up Your Computer

screen, click

Old Computer→

Page 19

On the

Select a transfer method

What do you want to transfer?

transfer and click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

screen, select the items you want to

After the information has been copied, the

Phase

Click

screen appears.

Finish

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

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

On the

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

Finished

screen, click

Finished

, 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.

Now go to your old

do not

click

Setting Up Your Computer 19

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I want to create a

Page 20

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk, and click

In the

Open

field on the

Run

window, browse to the path for

the appropriate removable media) and click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you

prefer.

On the transfer and click

What do you want to transfer?

screen, select the items you want to

Start→

Run

fastwiz

welcome screen, click

Old Computer→

(on

After the information has been copied, the

Phase

Click

screen appears.

Finish

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

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?).

Finished

and restart the new computer.

Windows® XP

screen

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

certain countries.

20 Setting Up Your Computer

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Specifications

NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the

configuration of your computer, click Start→ Help and Support and select the option to view information about your computer.

Processor

Processor type Intel

L1 cache 32 KB per instruction, 32 KB data cache per

core

L2 cache Shared 3 MB or 6 MB

Front side bus frequency 1067 MHz

System Information

Chip set Intel PM45

Data bus width 64 bit

Core™2 Duo

DRAM bus width 64 bit

Processor address bus width 36 bit

Flash EPROM SPI 32 Mbit

PCI bus (discrete graphics only) x16 PCI Express

ExpressCard (optional)

ExpressCard connector ExpressCard slot (supports both USB and

Cards supported 34 mm and 54 mm

PCIe based interfaces)

Specifications 21

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Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card Reader

Cards supported SD, SDIO, SD HC, Mini SD (with adapter)

MMC, MMC+, Mini MMC (with adapter)

Memory

Memory module connector two DIMM slots

Memory configurations available 1 GB (one 1 GB DIMM or two 512 MB

DIMMs)

2 GB (two DIMMs)

4 GB (two DIMMs)

8 GB (two DIMMS, requires 64-bit Windows XP or Windows Vista operating system)

Memory type DDR2 800 MHz (if supported by chipset

and/or processor combinations). Non-ECC memory only.

Minimum memory 1 GB

Maximum memory 8 GB (requires 64-bit Windows XP or

Windows Vista operating system)

NOTE: In order to take advantage of the dual-channel bandwidth capability, both

memory slots must be populated and must match in size.

NOTE: The available memory displayed does not reflect the complete maximum

memory installed because some memory is reserved for system files.

NOTE: To enable Intel

DIMM in the memory connector labeled "A". For more information about the memory connector, see your computer’s Service Manual at support.dell.com. For more information about iAMT, see the Dell™ Systems Management Administrator's Guide at support.dell.com.

Ports and Connectors

Audio microphone connector, stereo

IEEE 1394a 4-pin connector

Active Management Technology (iAMT), you must have a

headphone/speakers connector

22 Specifications

Page 23

Ports and Connectors (continued)

Mini-Card Support (internal expansion slots)

one dedicated half Mini-Card slot for WLAN

one dedicated full Mini-Card slot for WWAN (mobile broadband)

one dedicated full Mini-Card slot for WPAN (Bluetooth

wireless technology or ultra

wideband [UWB])

NOTE: You can use the WWAN or WPAN full

Mini-Card slot for the Intel

Modem RJ-11 modem connector

Network adapter RJ-45 modem connector

Smart card reader integrated smart-card reader

USB, USB PowerShare, eSATA four 4-pin USB 2.0 compliant connectors

Flash Cache

NOTE: Your laptop can support four USB

devices. One of the USB connectors is USB PowerShare that can provide power for third party devices (e.g. cell phone). Another USB connector can be used as an eSATA port.

Video VGA connector

multimodeDisplayPort

Communications

Modem internal modem optional

Network adapter 10/100/1000 Ethernet LAN on system board

Wireless WLAN half Mini-Card, WWAN, WPAN

full Mini-Card

Bluetooth

wireless technology

UWB technology

Mobile Broadband full Mini-Card

GPS supported by Mobile Broadband full

Mini-Card

Specifications 23

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Video

Video type discrete video on system board, hardware

accelerated, OpenGL support

Data bus PCI-E graphics x16

Video controller nVIDIA Quadro FX370M

Video memory discrete video: 256 MB dedicated memory

Video output VGA connector, multimode DisplayPort

Audio

Audio type two-channel high definition audio

Audio controller IDT 92HD71B

Stereo conversion 24-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-to-

analog)

Interfaces:

Internal

External

internal high definition audio codec

external microphone-in connector, stereo headphones/speakers connector

Speakers two 1-watt, 4-ohm speakers

Internal speaker amplifier 1 watt per channel, 4 ohms

Internal microphone single digital microphone

Volume controls volume control buttons

Display

Type (active-matrix TFT) WXGA, WXGA+

Active X/Y 303.36 x 189.84

Dimensions:

Height

Width

Diagonal

207 mm (8.15 inches)

320 mm (12.6 inches)

358.14 mm (14.1 inches)

24 Specifications

Page 25

Display (continued)

Maximum resolutions

WXGA CCFL

WXGA+ WLED

1280 x 800 pixels

1440 x 900 pixels

Refresh rate 60 Hz

Operating angle 0° (closed) to 160° (except when docked)

Viewing angles:

Horizontal

Vertical

40/40°

15/30°

Pixel pitch:

WXGA CCFL 0.2373

WXGA+ 0.2109

Typical power consumption (panel with backlight):

WXGA CCFL

WXGA+

6.2 W (maximum) with no inverter losses

7.5 W (maximum)

Keyboard

Number of keys 83 (U.S. and Canada); 84 (Europe);

87 (Japan)

Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji

Size full sized (19-mm key pitch)

Touch Pad

X/Y position resolution

240 cpi

(graphics table mode)

Size:

Width

Height

73.0-mm (2.9-inch) sensor-active area

42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle

Specifications 25

Page 26

Battery

Type 12-cell "smart" lithium ion prismatic slice

(84 Whr)

9-cell "smart" lithium ion (85 Whr)

6-cell "smart" lithium ion (56Whr)

Dimensions

6-cell lithium-ion battery:

Depth

Height

Width

Dimensions

9-cell lithium-ion batteries:

Depth

Height

Width

Dimensions

12-cell lithium-ion slice batteries:

Depth

Height

Width

Weight:

206 mm (8.11 inches)

19.8 mm (0.78 inches)

47.0 mm (1.85 inch)

208 mm (8.67 inches)

22.3 mm (0.88 inch)

68.98 mm (2.70 inches)

14.48 mm

217.24 mm

322.17 mm

6-cell Primary battery 0.33 kg (0.73 lb)

9-cell high capacity battery 0.51 kg (1.12 lb)

12-cell slice battery

Voltage:

6-cell and 9-cell

12-cell slice battery

26 Specifications

0.85 kg (1.87 lb)

11.1 VDC

14.8 VDC

Page 27

Battery (continued)

NOTE: Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions and can be

significantly reduced under certain power-intensive conditions.

Charge time (approximate):

Computer off

Approximately 1 hour to 80% in Dell™ ExpressCharge™ mode

Life span (approximate) 1 year

Temperature range:

Operating 0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F)

Storage –10° to 65°C (14° to 149°F)

Coin-cell battery CR-2032

AC Adapter

Input voltage 100–240 VAC

Input current (maximum) 1.5 A

Input frequency 50–60 Hz

Temperature range:

Operating

Storage

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

PA-12 65 W Travel AC adapter:

Output voltage

Output current

Height

Width

Depth

Wei gh t

19.5 V DC

3.34 A

15 mm (0.6 inches)

66 mm (2.6 inches)

127 mm (5.0 inches)

0.29 kg (0.64 lb)

Specifications 27

Page 28

AC Adapter (continued)

PA-10 90 W D-Series AC adapter:

Output voltage

Output current

Height

Width

Depth

Wei gh t

PA-3E 90 W E-Series AC adapter:

Output voltage

Output current

Height

Width

Length

Wei gh t

Fingerprint reader (optional)

19.5 V DC

4.62 A

32 mm (1.3 inches)

60 mm (2.4 inches)

140 mm (5.5 inches)

0.425 kg (0.9 lb)

19.5 V DC

4.62 A

15 mm (0.6 inches)

70 mm (2.8 inches)

147 mm (5.8 inches)

0.345 kg (0.76 lb)

Type UPEK TCS3 TouchStrip strip sensor with

CMOS active capacitive pixel-sensing technology

Physical

Height 26.3 mm (1.035 inches)

Width 335 mm (13.189 inches)

Depth 238.3 mm (9.382 inches)

Weight 2.18 kg (4.8 lb) with discrete graphics, 6-cell

battery, and optical drive

28 Specifications

Page 29

Environmental

Temperature range:

Operating

Storage

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

Relative humidity (maximum):

Operating

Storage

10% to 90% (noncondensing)

5% to 95% (noncondensing)

Maximum vibration (using a random vibration spectrum that simulates user environment):

Operating

Storage

0.66 GRMS

1.3 GRMS

Maximum shock (Measured with hard drive in operating status and a 2-ms half-sine pulse for operating. Also measured with hard drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms halfsine pulse for storage):

Operating

Storage

143 G

163 G

Altitude (maximum):

Operating

Storage

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

Camera (Optional)

Resolution 640 x 480 pixels (VGA)

Specifications 29

Page 30

30 Specifications

Page 31

Troubleshooting

CAUTION: To guard against the likelihood of electric shock, laceration by moving

fan blades, or other expected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

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

safety instructions that shipped with your computer

Tools

Power Lights

The two-color power-button light located on the front of the computer turns on and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:

• If the power light is off, the computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.

• If the power light is steady blue and the computer is not responding, ensure that the display is connected and powered on.

• If the power light is blinking blue, the computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation. If the power light is blinking amber, the computer is receiving electrical power, a device such as a memory module or graphics card might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

• If the power light is steady amber, there may be a power problem or an internal device malfunction.

Beep Codes

Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies a problem. One possible beep code consists of repetitive three short beeps. This beep code tells you that the computer encountered a possible motherboard failure.

Troubleshooting 31

Page 32

If your computer beeps during start-up:

Write down the beep code.

Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

Code

Description Suggested Remedy (repetitive short beeps)

1 BIOS checksum

failure. Possible

motherboard failure.

2 No memory modules

detected

3 Possible system

board failure

Contact Dell.

If you have two or more memory modules installed, remove the modules, reinstall one module (see

support.dell.com

your Service Manual at

), and then restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, reinstall an additional module. Continue until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.

If available, install good memory of the same type into your computer see

Manual at support.dell.com

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

your Service

Contact Dell.

4 RAM Read/Write

failure

32 Troubleshooting

Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements exist (see

support.dell.com

Verify that the memory modules that you are

your Service Manual at

installing are compatible with your computer (see

your Service Manual at

support.dell.com

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

Page 33

Code (repetitive short beeps)

Description Suggested Remedy

5 Real-time clock

failure. Possible battery failure or motherboard failure.

6 Video BIOS Test

Failure

7 CPU-cache test

failure

Replace the battery (see

at support.dell.com

If the problem persists, contact Dell.

Contact Dell.

your Service Manual

Error Messages

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

safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

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

AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE — The touch pad or external mouse may be faulty.

For an external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information. If the problem persists, contact Dell

(see "Contacting Dell" on page 65).

BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME — Ensure that you have spelled the command

correctly, put spaces in the proper place, and used the correct pathname.

CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE — The primary cache internal to the

microprocessor has failed. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 65).

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to

commands from the computer.

DATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot read the data.

DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY — One or more memory modules may be

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the

hard drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

Troubleshooting 33

Page 34

DRIVE NOT READY — The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it

can continue. Install a hard drive in the hard drive bay. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD — The computer cannot identify the

ExpressCard. Reinsert the card or try another card. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

EXTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS CHANGED — The amount of memory recorded in

nonvolatile memory (NVRAM) does not match the memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 65).

THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION DRIVE — The file

that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk, or the disk is full. Try copying the file to a different disk or use a larger capacity disk.

A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | —

GATE A20 FAILURE — A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory

Do not use these characters in filenames.

modules and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

GENERAL FAILURE — The operating system is unable to carry out the

command. The message is usually followed by specific information—for example, Printer out of paper. Take the appropriate action.

HARD- DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION ERROR — The computer cannot identify the

drive type. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see your Service Manual at support.dell.com), and boot the computer from a CD. Then, shut

down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

HARD- DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0—The hard drive does not respond

to commands from the computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see your Service Manual at support.dell.com), and boot the computer from a CD. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

HARD- DISK DRIVE FAILURE — The hard drive does not respond to commands

from the computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see your Service Manual at support.dell.com), and boot the computer from a CD.

34 Troubleshooting

Page 35

Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

HARD- DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — The hard drive may be defective. Shut

down the computer, remove the hard drive (see your Service Manual at support.dell.com), and boot the computer from a CD. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to

nonbootable media, such as a floppy disk or CD. Insert bootable media.

INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-PLEASE RUN SYSTEM SETUP

ROGRAM — The system configuration information does not match the

hardware configuration. The message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate options in the system setup program. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable

connection. Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable

connection. Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

KEYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable

connection. Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

KEYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE — For external keyboards or keypads, check the

cable connection. Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the Stuck Key test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

LICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN MEDIADIRECT — Dell™

MediaDirect™ cannot verify the Digital Rights Management (DRM) restrictions on the file, so the file cannot be played (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

Troubleshooting 35

Page 36

MEMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE —

A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

MEMORY ALLOCATION ERROR — The software you are attempting to run is

conflicting with the operating system, another program, or a utility. Shut down the computer, wait 30 seconds, and then restart it. Try to run the program again. If the error message still appears, see the software documentation.

MEMORY DATA LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A

memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

MEMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING

VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the

memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

MEMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING

VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the

memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

MEMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A

memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — The computer cannot find the hard drive. If

the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.

NO BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE — The operating system may be corrupted.

see

Contact Dell (

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the system board may be

"Contacting Dell" on page 65).

malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN —

You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use.

36 Troubleshooting

Page 37

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Reinstall the hard drive (see your at

support.dell.com). If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM — The optional ROM has failed. Contact

Dell (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

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

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

Microsoft

Windows Vista®:

Click the Windows Vista Start button →

Programs and Features

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Uninstall

Control Panel→ Programs

→

Microsoft Windows® XP:

Click

Features

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

SECTOR NOT FOUND — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the

Start→

Control Panel→ Add or Remove Programs→ Programs and

Uninstall

hard drive. You may have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility to check the file structure on the hard drive. See Windows Help and Support for instructions (click

Start→

Help and Support). If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the hard drive.

SEEK ERROR — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard

drive.

SHUTDOWN FAILURE — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning.

Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

TIME- OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER — System configuration settings are

corrupted. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to restore the data by entering the system

Troubleshooting 37

Page 38

setup program, then immediately exit the program (see your Service Manual at support.dell.com). If the message reappears, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 65).

TIME- OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED — The reserve battery that supports the system

configuration settings may require recharging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 65).

TIME- OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYS T E M SETUP PROGRAM — The time

or date stored in the system setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date and Time options. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com for more information.

TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED — A chip on the system board may be

malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

UNEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED MODE — The keyboard controller may

be malfunctioning, or a memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

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

drive and try again.

WARNING: BATTERY IS CRITICALLY LOW — The battery is running out of

charge. Replace the battery, or connect the computer to an electrical outlet; otherwise, activate hibernate mode or shut down the computer.

System Messages

NOTE: If the message you received is not listed in the table, see the documentation

for either the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.

LERT! PREVIOUS ATTEMPTS AT BOOTING THIS SYSTEM HAVE FAILED AT

CHECKPOINT [NNNN]. FOR HELP IN RESOLVING THIS PROBLEM, PLEASE NOTE THIS CHECKPOINT AND CONTACT DELL TECHNICAL SUPPORT — The computer failed

to complete the start routine three consecutive times for the same error

"Contacting Dell" on page 65 for assistance).

CMOS

CHECKSUM ERROR — Possible system board failure or RTC battery low.

Replace the battery. See your Service Manual at support.dell.com or see

"Contacting Dell" on page 65 for assistance.

(see

38 Troubleshooting

Page 39

CPU FAN FAILURE — Processor fan failure. Replace processor fan. See your

Service Manual at support.dell.com.

HARD- DISK DRIVE FAILURE — Possible hard drive failure during hard drive

POST. Check cables, swap hard disks, or see "Contacting Dell" on page 65 for assistance.

HARD- DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — Possible hard drive failure during hard-

drive start test (see "Contacting Dell" on page 65 for assistance).

KEYBOARD FAILURE — Keyboard failure or keyboard cable loose.

NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — No bootable partition on hard drive, or the

hard drive cable is loose, or no bootable device exists.

• If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the cables are connected and that the drive is installed properly and partitioned as a boot device.

• Enter system setup and ensure that the boot sequence information is correct (see your

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the system board might be

Service Manual

support.dell.com

malfunctioning or system board failure (see "Contacting Dell" on page 65 for assistance).

USB OVER CURRENT ERROR — Disconnect the USB device. Use external power

source for the USB device.

NOTICE - HARD DRIVE SELF MONITORING SYSTEM HAS REPORTED THAT A

PARAMETER HAS EXCEEDED ITS NORMAL OPERATING RANGE. DELL RECOMMENDS THAT YOU BACK UP YOUR DATA REGULARLY. A PARAMETER OUT OF RANGE MAY OR MAY NOT INDICATE A POTENTIAL HARD DRIVE PROBLEM — S.M.A.R.T error,

possible hard drive failure. This feature can be enabled or disabled in BIOS setup.

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.

To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button ,

Ty p e

hardware troubleshooter

<Enter> to start the search.

and click

Help and Support.

in the search field and press

Troubleshooting 39

Page 40

In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.

Windows XP:

Click

Ty p e

Start→

Help and Support

hardware troubleshooter

in the search field and press

<Enter> to start the search.

In the

In the the problem and click

Fix a Problem

section, click

Hardware Troubleshooter

to follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.

Hardware Troubleshooter

list, select the option that best describes

Dell Diagnostics

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

safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in Lockups and Software Problems (see "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 44) and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media is optional and may not ship with your

computer.

See your Service Manual at support.dell.com to review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device that you want to test displays in the system setup program and is active.

Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities media.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, see

page 65

Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is

"Contacting Dell" on

known to be working properly.

40 Troubleshooting

Page 41

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select

Diagnostics

from the start menu and press <Enter>.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to

wait until you see the Microsoft your computer and try again.

NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has

been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media.

Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility

Windows® desktop, and then shut down

partition on your hard drive, and follow the instructions on the screen.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media

Insert the

Shut down and restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities

media.

When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue

to wait until you see the Microsoft computer and try again.

NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the

next start-up, the computer starts according to the devices specified in the system setup program.

Windows® desktop; then, shut down your

When the boot device list appears, highlight

CD/DVD/CD-RW

and press

<Enter>.

Select the

Boot from CD-ROM

option from the menu that appears and

press <Enter>.

Ty p e 1 to start the CD menu and press <Enter> to proceed.

Select

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select the version that is appropriate for your computer.

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

appears, select the test that you

want to run, and follow the instructions on the screen.

Troubleshooting 41

Page 42

Troubleshooting Tips

Follow these tips when troubleshooting your computer:

• If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed (see your

Service Manual

• If a device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.

• If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help support personnel to diagnose and fix the problem(s).

• If an error message occurs in a program, see the program documentation.

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default

view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view.

Power Problems

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

safety information that shipped with your computer.

support.dell.com

F THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF — The computer is either turned off or is not

receiving power.

• Reseat the power cable in the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.

• Bypass power strips, power extension cables, and other power protection devices to verify that the computer turns on properly.

• Ensure that any power strips being used are plugged into an electrical outlet and are turned on.

• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

•

Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see

support.dell.com

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLUE AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING —

your Service Manual at

• Ensure that the display is connected and powered on.

• If the display is connected and powered on, see "Beep Codes" on page 31.

42 Troubleshooting

Page 43

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING BLUE — The computer is in standby mode.

Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER — The computer is receiving

electrical power, a device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

• Remove and then reinstall all memory modules (see

at support.dell.com

your Service Manual

• Remove and then reinstall any expansion cards, including graphics cards (see

your Service Manual at support.dell.com

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER — There is a power problem, a device

may be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

• Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board power connector (see

your Service Manual at support.dell.com

• Ensure that the main power cable and the front panel cable are securely connected to the system board connector (see

support.dell.com

ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE — Some possible causes of interference are:

your Service Manual at

• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables

• Too many devices connected to the same power strip

• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Memory Problems

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

safety information that shipped with your computer.

F YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —

• Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem.

• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (see

support.dell.com

• Reseat the memory modules (see

support.dell.com

your Service Manual at

) to ensure that your computer is successfully

communicating with the memory.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

your Service Manual at

Troubleshooting 43

Page 44

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules (see

support.dell.com

) to ensure that your computer is successfully

your Service Manual at

communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see

Service Manual at support.dell.com

your

• Ensure that the memory you are using is supported by your computer. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Specifications" on page 21.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40).

Lockups and Software Problems

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

safety information that shipped with your computer.

The computer does not start up

ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO

THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You may lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system

shutdown.

URN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a

key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your computer.

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to access the Task Manager, and click the

Click to select the program that is no longer responding, and click

Ta s k

Applications

tab.

End

44 Troubleshooting

Page 45

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Most software includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a

floppy disk, CD, or DVD.

HECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then

reinstall the program.

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —

Windows® operating system

Windows Vista:

The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows Vista operating system environments.

Click

Start

→

Control Panel→ Programs→ Use an older program

with this version of Windows.

In the welcome screen, click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Windows XP:

The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-XP operating system environments.

Click

Wizard

Follow the instructions on the screen.

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a

Start→

→

All Programs→ Accessories→ Program Compatibility

key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your computer.

Other software problems

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE

MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION —

• Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.

Troubleshooting 45

Page 46

• Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information.

• Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.

• Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.

• If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY

• Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive, floppy disks, CDs, or DVDs

• Save and close any open files or programs and shut down your computer through the Start menu

Dell Technical Update Service

The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications.

To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.

Dell Support Utility

The Dell Support Utility is installed on your computer and available from the Dell Support, , icon on the taskbar or from the Start button. Use this support utility for self-support information, software updates, and health scans of your computing environment.

Accessing the Dell Support Utility

Access the Dell Support Utility from the icon on the taskbar or from the Start menu.

If the Dell Support icon does not appear in your taskbar:

Click

Ensure that the

NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to

support.dell.com and download the software.

Start→ All Programs→ Dell Support→

Show icon on the taskbar

option is checked.

Dell Support Settings

46 Troubleshooting

Page 47

The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment.

The icon in the taskbar functions differently when you click, doubleclick, or right-click the icon.

Clicking the Dell Support Icon

Click or right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:

• Check your computing environment.

• View the Dell Support Utility settings.

• Access the help file for the Dell Support Utility.

• View frequently asked questions.

• Learn more about the Dell Support Utility.

• Turn off the Dell Support Utility.

Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon

Double-click the icon to manually check your computing environment, view frequently asked questions, access the help file for the Dell Support Utility, and view Dell Support settings.

For more information about the Dell Support Utility, click the question mark (?) at the top of the Dell

™ Support screen.

Troubleshooting 47

Page 48

48 Troubleshooting

Page 49

Reinstalling Software

Drivers

Identifying Drivers

If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.

Microsoft

Microsoft Windows® XP:

Windows Vista®:

Click the Windows Vista Start button™

Click

Properties→ Device Manager

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue.

and right-click

Computer

Click

Under

System

In the

Manager

Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the device icon.

If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 50).

Start→

Pick a Category

System Properties

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

, and click

Hardware

Reinstalling Software 49

tab, and click

Device

Page 50

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and

Utilities media provide approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers

obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Returning to a Previous Device Driver Version

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button

Click

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Properties

Click the

Properties→ Device Manager

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager.

Drivers

tab→ Roll Back Driver

Windows XP:

and right-click

Computer

Click

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Properties

Click the

Start→

Drivers

My Computer→ Properties→ Hardware→ Device Manager

tab→

Roll Back Driver.

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 52) to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.

Using the Drivers and Utilities Media

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 52) does not resolve the problem, reinstall the driver from your Drivers and Utilities media.

With the Windows desktop displayed, insert your

media

If this is your first time to use the

Drivers and Utilities media, go to step 2.

Drivers and Utilities

If not, go to step 5.

50 Reinstalling Software

Page 51

When the

Drivers and Utilities media installation program starts, follow

the prompts on the screen.

NOTE: In most cases, the Drivers and Utilities program starts running

automatically. If it does not, start Windows Explorer, click your media drive directory to display the media contents, and then double-click the autorcd.exe file.

When the

Drivers and Utilities

When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the

InstallShield Wizard Complete

media and click

Finish

window appears, remove the

to restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities

media.

At the

Welcome Dell System Owner

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities program displays drivers only for hardware

that came installed in your computer. If you installed additional hardware, the drivers for the new hardware might not be displayed. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the Drivers and Utilities program. For drivers information, see the documentation that came with the device.

screen, click

A message stating that the Resource media is detecting hardware in your computer appears.

The drivers that are used by your computer are automatically displayed in the

My Drivers—The ResourceCD has identified these components in

your system

Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on

window.

the screen.

If a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is not required by your operating system.

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

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

Click the Windows Vista Start button

Click

Properties→ Device Manager

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager.

and right-click

Computer

Reinstalling Software 51

Page 52

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

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

Click the

software

Click the driver files.

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click the name of the driver

Click

Audio

Driver

Browse

→ OK→

Finish

and browse to the location to which you previously copied

and restart your computer.

Video

tab→

Update Driver→ Browse my computer for driver

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

• Microsoft Windows System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your operating system and preserving data files.

• Dell Factory Image Restore (available in Windows Vista) returns your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. The program permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any programs installed after you received the computer. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

• If you received an use it to restore your operating system. However, using the

System

System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

media also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the media

Operating System

media with your computer, you can

Operating

only

Using Microsoft® Windows® System Restore

The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option that allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. Any changes that System Restore makes to your computer are completely reversible.

52 Reinstalling Software

Page 53

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

monitor your data files or recover them.

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default

view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.

NOTE: Set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.

Starting System Restore

Windows Vista:

Click

In the Start Search box, type

Click

Start

System Restore

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action.

and follow the remaining prompts on the screen.

and press <Enter>.

In the event that System Restore did not resolve the issue, you may undo the last system restore (see "Undoing the Last System Restore" on page 53).

Windows XP:

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

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

Click

Restore

Click either

point

Click

Undoing the Last System Restore

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

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

Start→

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→

Restore my computer to an earlier time

and follow the remaining on-screen prompts.

System

Create a restore

Reinstalling Software 53

Page 54

Windows Vista:

Click

In the Start Search box, type

Click

Start

System Restore

Undo my last restoration

and click

and press <Enter>.

Windows XP:

Click

Restore

Click

Enabling System Restore

NOTE: Windows Vista does not disable System Restore; regardless of low disk

space. Therefore, the steps below apply only to Windows XP.

Start→

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→

Undo my last restoration

and click

System

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

To see if System Restore is enabled:

Click

Click the

Start→

Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance→ System

System Restore

tab and ensure that

Turn off System Restore

unchecked.

Using Dell™ Factory Image Restore

NOTICE: Using Dell Factory Image Restore permanently deletes all data on the

hard drive and removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using this option. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

NOTE: Dell Factory Image Restore may not be available in certain countries or on

certain computers.

Use Dell Factory Image Restore (Windows Vista) only as the last method to restore your operating system. This option restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer—including data files—are permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data before using Dell Factory Image Restore.

54 Reinstalling Software

Page 55

Dell Factory Image Restore (Windows Vista Only)

Turn on the computer. When the Dell logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the Vista Advanced Boot Options Window.

Select

Repair Your Computer

The System Recovery Options window appears.

Select a keyboard layout and click

To access the recovery options, log on as a local user. To access the command prompt, type click

Click

On the Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen, click

Dell Factory Image Restore

NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select Dell

Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore.

administrator

in the User name field, then

Next.

The Confirm Data Deletion screen appears.

NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with Factory Image Restore, click Cancel.

Click the checkbox to confirm that you want to continue reformatting the hard drive and restoring the system software to the factory condition, then click

The restore process begins and may take 5 or more minutes to complete. A message appears when the operating system and factory-installed applications have been restored to factory condition.

Click

Finish

to restart the computer.

Using the Operating System Media

Before you Begin

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows Device Driver Rollback. See "Returning to a Previous Device Driver Version" on page 50. If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, use Microsoft Windows System Restore to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver. See "Using Microsoft® Windows® System Restore" on page 52.

Reinstalling Software 55

Page 56

NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary

hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.

To reinstall Windows, you need the Dell™ Operating System media and the Dell Drivers and Utilities media.

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities

the assembly of the computer. Use the required drivers. Depending on the region from which you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the media, the

Operating System

Reinstalling Windows

media may not ship with your computer.

media

contains drivers that were installed during

Dell

Drivers and Utilities

Dell

Drivers and Utilities

media

to load any

and

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

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

Insert the

If the

Restart the computer.

Operating System

media.

Install Windows

message appears, click

Exit

When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue

to wait until you see the Microsoft computer and try again.

Windows® desktop; then, shut down your

NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the

next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the system setup program.

When the boot device list appears, highlight and press <Enter>.

Press any key to

Boot from CD-ROM

screen to complete the installation.

56 Reinstalling Software

CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive

, and follow the instructions on the

Page 57

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.

Document/Media/Label Contents

Service Tag/Express Service Code

The Service Tag/Express Service Code is located on your computer.

Drivers and Utilities Media

The Drivers and Utilities media is a CD or DVD that may have shipped with your computer.

• 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

or contact support.

NOTE: Your Service Tag/Express Service

Code is located on your computer.

• A diagnostic program for your computer

• Drivers for your computer

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates

can be found at support.dell.com.

• Notebook System Software (NSS)

• Readme files

NOTE: 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.

Operating System Media

The Operating System media is a CD or DVD that may have shipped with your computer.

Reinstall your operating system

Finding Information 57

Page 58

Document/Media/Label Contents

Safety, Regulatory, Warranty, and Support Documentation

This type of information may have shipped with your computer. For additional regulatory information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage on

www.dell.com at the following location: www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Service Manual

The Service Manual for your computer can be found at support.dell.com.

Dell Technology Guide

The Dell Technology Guide is available at

support.dell.com.

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

• How to remove and replace parts

• How to configure system settings

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

• About your operating system

• Using and maintaining devices

• Understanding technologies such as

RAID, Internet, Bluetooth

wireless technology, e-mail, networking, and more.

Microsoft® Windows® License Label

Your Microsoft Windows License is located on your computer.

• Provides your operating system product key.

58 Finding Information

Page 59

Getting Help

Obtaining Assistance

CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer cover, first disconnect the

computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets. Follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem:

See "Troubleshooting Tips" on page 42 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing.

See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 40 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics.

Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 64.

Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support (

support.dell.com

procedures. See "Online Services" on page 60 for a more extensive list of Dell Support online.

) for help with installation and troubleshooting

If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see "Contacting Dell" on page 65.

NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone near or at the computer so that the

support staff can assist you with any necessary procedures.

NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.

When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder, double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.

For instructions on using the Dell Support, see "Technical Support and Customer Service" on page 60.

Getting Help 59

Page 60

NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations

outside the continental U.S. Call your local Dell representative for information on availability.

Technical Support and Customer Service

Dell's support service is available to answer your questions about Dell™ hardware. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers.

To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You Call" on page 63, and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com.

DellConnect™

DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and support associate to access your computer through a broadband connection, diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision. For more information, go to support.dell.com and click DellConnect.

Online Services

You can learn about Dell products and services at the following websites:

www.dell.com

www.dell.com/ap

www.dell.com/jp

www.euro.dell.com

www.dell.com/la

www.dell.ca

(Asian/Pacific countries only)

(Japan only)

(Europe only)

(Latin American and Caribbean countries)

(Canada only)

You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail addresses:

• Dell Support websites:

support.dell.com

support.jp.dell.com

support.euro.dell.com

(Japan only)

(Europe only)

60 Getting Help

Page 61

• Dell Support e-mail addresses

[email protected]

[email protected] (Latin America and Caribbean countries only)

[email protected]

• Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses

[email protected]

[email protected] (Canada only)

• Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)

ftp.dell.com

(Asian/Pacific countries only)

anonymous

, and use your e-mail address as your password.

AutoTech Service

Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their laptop and desktop computers.

When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your questions. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 65.

Automated Order-Status Service

To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 65.

Problems With Your Order

If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or packing slip handy when you call. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 65.

Getting Help 61

Page 62

Product Information

If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For the telephone number to call for your region or to speak to a sales specialist, see "Contacting Dell" on page 65.

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:

Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box.

For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 65. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.

Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 64), indicating the tests that you have run and any error messages reported by the Dell Diagnostics (see "Contacting Dell" on page 65).

Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (power cables, software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if the return is for credit.

Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing materials.

You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted.

Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at Dell’s receiving dock and returned to you.

62 Getting Help

Page 63

Before You Call

NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s

automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also be asked for your Service Tag (located on the back or bottom of your computer).

Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 64). If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the computer itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is available.

CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, follow the safety instructions in

the documentation that shipped with your computer.

Getting Help 63

Page 64

Diagnostics Checklist

Name:

Date:

Address:

Phone number:

Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer):

Express Service Code:

Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):

Operating system and version:

Devices:

Expansion cards:

Are you connected to a network? Yes No

Network, version, and network adapter:

Programs and versions:

See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell.

Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:

Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:

64 Getting Help

Page 65

Contacting Dell

For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW-DELL (800-999-3355).

NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact

information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.

Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues:

Visit

support.dell.com

Country/Region

Click

drop-down menu at the bottom of the page.

service or support link based on your need.

Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.

, and verify your country or region in the

Choose A

on the left side of the page, and select the appropriate

Getting Help 65

Page 66

66 Getting Help

Page 67

Index

beep codes, 31

computer

specifications, 21

connecting

AC adapter, 13 IEEE 1394 devices, 14 Internet, 16

contacting Dell, 59, 65

Dell

contacting, 59, 65

Dell Factory Image Restore, 55

Dell Technology Guide, 58

DellConnect, 60

diagnostics

beep codes, 31 Dell, 40

documentation, 57

Dell Technology Guide, 58 Service Manual, 58

drivers, 49

Drivers and Utilities media, 57 identifying, 49 reinstalling, 50 returning to a previous version, 50

Drivers and Utilities media, 50,

Dell Diagnostics, 40

Factory Image Restore, 54 software updates, 46 Support Utility, 46 technical support and customer

service, 60

Technical Update Service, 46

Dell Diagnostics, 40

starting from the Drivers and

Utilities media, 41

starting from your hard drive, 40

End User License Agreement

(EULA), 58

ergonomics information, 58

error messages

beep codes, 31

Express Service Code, 57

Index 67

Page 68

Factory Image Restore, 54

Files and Settings Transfer

Wizard, 17

finding information, 57

Internet

connecting, 16 setting up, 16 Wi-Fi Catcher network

locator, 11

wireless switch, 11

media

Drivers and Utilities, 57 operating system, 57

operating system

Dell Factory Image Restore, 54 media, 55 PC Restore, 54 reinstalling, 57 System Restore, 52

Operating System media, 57

operating system product key, 58

PC Restore, 54

phone numbers, 65

power

power light conditions, 42 troubleshooting, 42

problems

restore to previous state, 52

memory

troubleshooting, 43

networks

overview, 15 Wi-Fi Catcher network

locator, 11

wireless switch, 11

Notebook System Software, 57

68 Index

regulatory information, 58

reinstalling

drivers and utilities, 50 software, 49

S.M.A.R.T, 39

safety information, 58

Page 69

Service Manual, 58

troubleshooting (continued)

Service Tag, 57

setup

Internet, 16

software

problems, 45 reinstalling, 49 troubleshooting, 44-45 updates, 46

specifications, 21

support, 59

contacting Dell, 65 DellConnect, 60 online services, 60 regional, 60 technical support and customer

service, 60

support information, 58

System Restore, 52

enabling, 54

power light conditions, 42 power lights, 31 program crashes, 44 programs and Windows

compatibility, 45 restore to previous state, 52 software, 44-45 tips, 42

updates

software and hardware, 46

warranty information, 58

Windows License label, 58

Windows Vista

Dell Factory Image

Restore, 54-55

Terms and Conditions, 58

transferring information to a new

computer, 17

troubleshooting, 31, 58

blue screen, 45 computer not responding, 44 Dell Diagnostics, 40 error messages, 33 memory, 43 power, 42

Program Compatibility wizard, 45 reinstalling, 57 System Restore, 52

Windows XP

Device Driver Rollback, 50 Files and Settings Transfer

Wizard, 17 PC Restore, 54 reinstalling, 57 returning to a previous device

driver version, 50

Index 69

Page 70

Windows XP (continued)

setting up Internet

connection, 17

System Restore, 52

wizards

Files and Settings Transfer

Wizard, 17

Program Compatibility wizard, 45

70 Index