Dell LATITUDE D400 User Manual

Getting Help

Technical Assistance
Problems With Your Order
Product Information
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
Before You Call
Contacting Dell

Technical Assistance

If you need help with a technical problem, Dell is ready to assist you.

CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer covers, first disconnect the computer power and modem

cables from all electrical outlets.

1. Complete the procedures in "Solving Problems

2. Run the Dell Diagnostics

3. Make a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist

4. Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support (support.dell.com) for help with installation and
troubleshooting procedures.

5. If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, contact Dell.

NOTE: Call technical support from a telephone near or at the computer so that technical support 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 technical support service, see "Technical Support Service

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.

.

."

and fill it out.

."

Online Services

You can access Dell Support at support.dell.com. Select your region on the WELCOME TO DELL SUPPORT page, and fill in
the requested details to access help tools and information.

You can contact Dell electronically using the following addresses:

World Wide Web

www.dell.com/
www.dell.com/ap/ (Asian/Pacific countries only)
www.euro.dell.com (Europe only)

www.dell.com/la/ (Latin American countries)

www.dell.ca (Canada only)

Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)

ftp.dell.com/

Log in as user: anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.

Electronic Support Service

[e-mail]
[e-mail]
[e-mail] (Asian/Pacific countries only)
support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)

Electronic Quote Service

[e-mail]
[e-mail] (Asian/Pacific countries only)
[e-mail] (Canada only)

Electronic Information Service

[e-mail]

AutoTech Service

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

When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your questions.

The AutoTech service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also access this service through the technical
support service. For the telephone number to call, see the contact numbers

for your region.

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, see the contact numbers

for your region.

Technical Support Service

Dell's technical support service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to answer your questions about Dell hardware.
Our technical support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers.

To contact Dell's technical support service, see "Technical Assistance
"Contacting Dell

."

" and then call the number for your country as listed in

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, see the contact numbers
for your region.

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 to speak to a sales specialist, see the contact numbers
region.

for your

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

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

1. 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, see the contact numbers

2. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.

3. Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist indicating the tests you have run and any error messages reported by the
Dell Diagnostics.

4. 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.

5. 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.

for your region.

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.

Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist
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, read the safety instructions in your System Information

Guide.

Diagnostics Checklist

Name:

. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for technical assistance

Date:

Address:
Phone number:
Service Tag (bar code on the back 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:

Contacting Dell

To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:

www.dell.com
support.dell.com (technical support)
premiersupport.dell.com (technical support for educational, government, healthcare, and medium/large business

customers, including Premier, Platinum, and Gold customers)

For specific web addresses for your country, find the appropriate country section in the table below.

NOTE: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed.

When you need to contact Dell, use the electronic addresses, telephone numbers, and codes provided in the following table. If
you need assistance in determining which codes to use, contact a local or an international operator.

Country (City)
International Access
Code Country Code
City Code

Anguilla General Support toll-free: 800-335-0031

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,

Local Numbers, and

Toll-Free Numbers

Antigua and Barbuda General Support 1-800-805-5924
Argentina (Buenos

Aires)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 54
City Code: 11

Website: www.dell.com.ar
Tech Support and Customer Care toll-free: 0-800-444-0733
Sales 0-810-444-3355
Tech Support Fax [phone]
Customer Care Fax [phone]

Aruba General Support toll-free: 800-1578
Australia (Sydney)

International Access
Code: 0011

Country Code: 61
City Code: 2

Austria (Vienna)

International Access
Code: 900

Country Code: 43
City Code: 1

E-mail (Australia): [e-mail]
E-mail (New Zealand): [e-mail]
Home and Small Business 1-300-65-55-33
Government and Business toll-free: 1-800-633-559
Preferred Accounts Division (PAD) toll-free: 1-800-060-889
Customer Care toll-free: 1-800-819-339
Corporate Sales toll-free: 1-800-808-385
Transaction Sales toll-free: 1-800-808-312
Fax toll-free: 1-800-818-341
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
Home/Small Business Sales 0820 240 530 00
Home/Small Business Fax [phone]
Home/Small Business Customer Care 0820 240 530 14
Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care 0820 240 530 16
Home/Small Business Technical Support 0820 240 530 14
Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support 0660 8779
Switchboard 0820 240 530 00

Bahamas General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6818
Barbados General Support 1-800-534-3066
Belgium (Brussels)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 32
City Code: 2

Bermuda General Support 1-800-342-0671
Bolivia General Support toll-free: 800-10-0238
Brazil

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 55
City Code: 51

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
E-mail for French Speaking Customers:

support.euro.dell.com/be/fr/emaildell/

Technical Support 02 481 92 88
Customer Care 02 481 91 19
Corporate Sales 02 481 91 00
Fax [phone]
Switchboard 02 481 91 00

Website: www.dell.com/br
Customer Support, Technical Support 0800 90 3355
Tech Support Fax [phone]
Customer Care Fax [phone]
Sales 0800 90 3390

British Virgin Islands General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6820
Brunei

Country Code: 673

Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4966
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949
Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4955

Canada (North York,
Ontario)

International Access
Code: 011

Cayman Islands General Support 1-800-805-7541

Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus
AutoTech (automated technical support) toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
TechFax toll-free: 1-800-950-1329
Customer Care (Home Sales/Small Business) toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Customer Care (med./large business, government) toll-free: 1-800-326-9463
Technical Support (Home Sales/Small Business) toll-free: 1-800-847-4096
Technical Support (med./large bus., government) toll-free: 1-800-387-5757
Sales (Home Sales/Small Business) toll-free: 1-800-387-5752
Sales (med./large bus., government) toll-free: 1-800-387-5755
Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales 1 866 440 3355

Chile (Santiago)

Country Code: 56
City Code: 2

China (Xiamen)

Country Code: 86
City Code: 592

Sales, Customer Support, and Technical Support toll-free: 1230-020-4823

Tech Support website: support.ap.dell.com/china
Tech Support E-mail: [e-mail]
Tech Support Fax [phone]
Home and Small Business Technical Support toll-free: 800 858 2437
Corporate Accounts Technical Support toll-free: 800 858 2333
Customer Experience toll-free: 800 858 2060
Home and Small Business toll-free: 800 858 2222
Preferred Accounts Division toll-free: 800 858 2062
Large Corporate Accounts GCP toll-free: 800 858 2055
Large Corporate Accounts Key Accounts toll-free: 800 858 2628
Large Corporate Accounts North toll-free: 800 858 2999
Large Corporate Accounts North Government and Education toll-free: 800 858 2955
Large Corporate Accounts East toll-free: 800 858 2020
Large Corporate Accounts East Government and Education toll-free: 800 858 2669
Large Corporate Accounts Queue Team toll-free: 800 858 2572
Large Corporate Accounts South toll-free: 800 858 2355
Large Corporate Accounts West toll-free: 800 858 2811
Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts toll-free: 800 858 2621

Colombia General Support 980-9-15-3978
Costa Rica General Support 0800-012-0435
Czech Republic

(Prague)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 420
City Code: 2

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support 02 2186 27 27
Customer Care 02 2186 27 11
Fax [phone]
TechFax 02 2186 27 28

Switchboard 02 2186 27 11

Denmark
(Copenhagen)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 45

Dominica General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6821
Dominican Republic General Support 1-800-148-0530
Ecuador General Support toll-free: 999-119
El Salvador General Support 01-899-753-0777

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail Support (portable computers):

[e-mail]
E-mail Support (desktop computers):

[e-mail]
E-mail Support (servers): [e-mail]
Technical Support 7023 0182
Customer Care (Relational) 7023 0184
Home/Small Business Customer Care 3287 5505
Switchboard (Relational) 3287 1200
Fax Switchboard (Relational) 3287 1201
Switchboard (Home/Small Business) 3287 5000
Fax Switchboard (Home/Small Business) 3287 5001

Finland (Helsinki)

International Access
Code: 990

Country Code: 358
City Code: 9

France (Paris)
(Montpellier)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 33
City Codes: (1) (4)

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
E-mail Support (servers): [e-mail]
Technical Support 09 253 313 60
Technical Support Fax [phone]
Relational Customer Care 09 253 313 38
Home/Small Business Customer Care 09 693 791 94
Fax [phone]
Switchboard 09 253 313 00
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/
Home and Small Business
Technical Support 0825 387 270
Customer Care 0825 823 833
Switchboard 0825 004 700
Switchboard (calls from outside of France) 04 99 75 40 00
Sales 0825 004 700
Fax [phone]
Fax (calls from outside of France) 04 99 75 40 01
Corporate
Technical Support 0825 004 719
Customer Care 0825 338 339
Switchboard 01 55 94 71 00

Sales 01 55 94 71 00

Fax [phone]

Germany (Langen)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 49
City Code: 6103

Greece

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 30

Grenada General Support toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support 06103 766-7200
Home/Small Business Customer Care 0180-5-224400
Global Segment Customer Care 06103 766-9570
Preferred Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9420
Large Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9560
Public Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9555
Switchboard 06103 766-7000
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/gr/en/emaildell/
Technical Support 080044149518
Gold Technical Support 08844140083
Switchboard 2108129800
Sales 2108129800
Fax [phone]

Guatemala General Support 1-800-999-0136
Guyana General Support toll-free: 1-877-270-4609
Hong Kong

International Access
Code: 001

Country Code: 852

India Technical Support 1600 33 8045

Ireland (Cherrywood)

International Access
Code: 16

Country Code: 353
City Code: 1

Website: support.ap.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™) 296 93188
Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell

Precision™)
Customer Service (non-technical, post-sales issues) 800 93 8291
Transaction Sales toll-free: 800 96 4109
Large Corporate Accounts HK toll-free: 800 96 4108
Large Corporate Accounts GCP HK toll-free: 800 90 3708

Sales 1600 33 8044
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
Ireland Technical Support 1850 543 543
U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only) 0870 908 0800
Home User Customer Care 01 204 4014

296 93191

Small Business Customer Care 01 204 4014
U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only) 0870 906 0010
Corporate Customer Care 1850 200 982
Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K. only) 0870 907 4499

Ireland Sales 01 204 4444

U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only) 0870 907 4000
Fax/SalesFax 01 204 0103
Switchboard 01 204 4444

Italy (Milan)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 39
City Code: 02

Jamaica General Support (dial from within Jamaica only) 1-800-682-3639
Japan (Kawasaki)

International Access
Code: 001

Country Code: 81
City Code: 44

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/it/it/emaildell/
Home and Small Business
Technical Support 02 577 826 90
Customer Care 02 696 821 14
Fax [phone]
Switchboard 02 696 821 12
Corporate
Technical Support 02 577 826 90
Customer Care 02 577 825 55
Fax [phone]
Switchboard 02 577 821

Website: support.jp.dell.com
Technical Support (servers) toll-free: 0120-198-498
Technical Support outside of Japan (servers) 81-44-556-4162
Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™) toll-free: 0120-198-226
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and

Inspiron)

81-44-520-1435

Korea (Seoul)

International Access
Code: 001

Country Code: 82

Technical Support (Dell Precision™, OptiPlex™, and
Latitude™)

Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision,
OptiPlex, and Latitude)

Faxbox Service 044-556-3490
24-Hour Automated Order Service 044-556-3801
Customer Care 044-556-4240
Business Sales Division (up to 400 employees) 044-556-1465
Preferred Accounts Division Sales (over 400 employees) 044-556-3433
Large Corporate Accounts Sales (over 3500 employees) 044-556-3430
Public Sales (government agencies, educational

institutions, and medical institutions)
Global Segment Japan 044-556-3469
Individual User 044-556-1760
Switchboard 044-556-4300
Technical Support toll-free: 080-200-3800
Sales toll-free: 080-200-3600
Customer Service (Seoul, Korea) toll-free: 080-200-3800
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949

toll-free:0120-198-433

81-44-556-3894

044-556-1469

City Code: 2

Fax [phone]
Switchboard 2194-6000

Latin America Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4093

Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-3619

Luxembourg

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 352

Macao
Country Code: 853

Malaysia (Penang)

Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service) (Austin,
Texas, U.S.A.)

Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4397
SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4600

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support (Brussels, Belgium) 3420808075
Home/Small Business Sales (Brussels, Belgium) toll-free: 080016884
Corporate Sales (Brussels, Belgium) 02 481 91 00
Customer Care (Brussels, Belgium) 02 481 91 19
Fax (Brussels, Belgium) 02 481 92 99
Switchboard (Brussels, Belgium) 02 481 91 00
Technical Support toll-free: 0800 582
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949
Transaction Sales toll-free: 0800 581
Technical Support toll-free: 1 800 888 298

512 728-3883

or 512 728-3772

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 60
City Code: 4

Mexico

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 52

Montserrat General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6822
Netherlands Antilles General Support 001-800-882-1519
Netherlands

(Amsterdam)

International Access
Code: 00

Customer Service 04 633 4949
Transaction Sales toll-free: 1 800 888 202
Corporate Sales toll-free: 1 800 888 213

Customer Technical Support 001-877-384-8979

or 001-877-269-3383

Sales 50-81-8800

or 01-800-888-3355

Customer Service 001-877-384-8979

or 001-877-269-3383

Main 50-81-8800

or 01-800-888-3355

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail (Technical Support):
(Enterprise): [e-mail]

Country Code: 31
City Code: 20

(Latitude): [e-mail]
(Inspiron): [e-mail]

(Dimension): [e-mail]

(OptiPlex): [e-mail]
(Dell Precision): [e-mail]

Technical Support 020 674 45 00
Technical Support Fax [phone]
Home/Small Business Customer Care 020 674 42 00
Relational Customer Care 020 674 4325
Home/Small Business Sales 020 674 55 00
Relational Sales 020 674 50 00
Home/Small Business Sales Fax [phone]
Relational Sales Fax [phone]
Switchboard 020 674 50 00
Switchboard Fax [phone]

New Zealand

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 64

Nicaragua General Support 001-800-220-1006
Norway (Lysaker)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 47

E-mail (New Zealand): [e-mail]
E-mail (Australia): [e-mail]
Home and Small Business 0800 446 255
Government and Business 0800 444 617
Sales 0800 441 567
Fax [phone]

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail Support (portable computers):

[e-mail]
E-mail Support (desktop computers):

[e-mail]
E-mail Support (servers):

[e-mail]
Technical Support 671 16882
Relational Customer Care 671 17514
Home/Small Business Customer Care 23162298
Switchboard 671 16800
Fax Switchboard 671 16865

Panama General Support 001-800-507-0962
Peru General Support 0800-50-669
Poland (Warsaw)

International Access
Code: 011

Country Code: 48
City Code: 22

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
Customer Service Phone [phone]
Customer Care 57 95 999
Sales 57 95 999
Customer Service Fax [phone]

Reception Desk Fax [phone]

Switchboard 57 95 999

Portugal

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 351

Puerto Rico General Support 1-800-805-7545
St. Kitts and Nevis General Support toll-free: 1-877-441-4731
St. Lucia General Support 1-800-882-1521
St. Vincent and the

Grenadines
Singapore (Singapore)

International Access
Code: 005

Country Code: 65

South Africa
(Johannesburg)

International Access
Code:

09/091

Country Code: 27
City Code: 11

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/pt/en/emaildell/
Technical Support 707200149
Customer Care 800 300 413
Sales 800 300 410 or 800 300 411 or

800 300 412 or 21 422 07 10

Fax [phone]

General Support toll-free: 1-877-270-4609

Technical Support toll-free: 800 6011 051
Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949
Transaction Sales toll-free: 800 6011 054
Corporate Sales toll-free: 800 6011 053
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support 011 709 7710
Customer Care 011 709 7707
Sales 011 709 7700
Fax [phone]
Switchboard 011 709 7700

Southeast Asian and
Pacific Countries

Spain (Madrid)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 34
City Code: 91

Sweden (Upplands
Vasby)

Customer Technical Support, Customer Service, and Sales
(Penang, Malaysia)

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/es/es/emaildell/
Home and Small Business
Technical Support 902 100 130
Customer Care 902 118 540
Sales 902 118 541
Switchboard 902 118 541
Fax [phone]
Corporate
Technical Support 902 100 130
Customer Care 902 118 546
Switchboard 91 722 92 00
Fax [phone]
Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]

604 633 4810

International Access

Code: 00
Country Code: 46
City Code: 8

E-mail Support for Latitude and Inspiron:
[e-mail]

E-mail Support for OptiPlex: [e-mail]
E-mail Support for Servers:

[e-mail]
Technical Support 08 590 05 199
Relational Customer Care 08 590 05 642
Home/Small Business Customer Care 08 587 70 527
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support 20 140 14 44
Fax Technical Support 08 590 05 594
Sales 08 590 05 185

Switzerland (Geneva)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 41
City Code: 22

Taiwan

International Access
Code: 002

Country Code: 886

Thailand

Website: support.euro.dell.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
E-mail for French-speaking HSB and Corporate Customers:

support.euro.dell.com/ch/fr/emaildell/

Technical Support (Home and Small Business) 0844 811 411
Technical Support (Corporate) 0844 822 844
Customer Care (Home and Small Business) 0848 802 202
Customer Care (Corporate) 0848 821 721
Fax [phone]
Switchboard 022 799 01 01
Technical Support (portable and desktop computers) toll-free: 00801 86 1011
Technical Support (servers) toll-free: 0080 60 1256
Transaction Sales toll-free: 0080 651 228

or 0800 33 556

Corporate Sales toll-free: 0080 651 227

or 0800 33 555

Technical Support toll-free: 0880 060 07

International Access
Code: 001

Country Code: 66

Trinidad/Tobago General Support 1-800-805-8035
Turks and Caicos

Islands
U.K. (Bracknell)

International Access
Code: 00

Country Code: 44
City Code: 1344

Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949
Sales toll-free: 0880 060 09

General Support toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

Website: support.euro.dell.com
Customer Care website: support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/Form/Home.asp

E-mail: [e-mail]
Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred Accounts/PAD

[1000+ employees])
Technical Support (direct/PAD and general) 0870 908 0800
Global Accounts Customer Care 01344 373 186

0870 908 0500

Home and Small Business Customer Care 0870 906 0010

Corporate Customer Care 01344 373 185
Preferred Accounts (500–5000 employees) Customer Care 0870 906 0010
Central Government Customer Care 01344 373 193
Local Government & Education Customer Care 01344 373 199
Health Customer Care 01344 373 194
Home and Small Business Sales 0870 907 4000
Corporate/Public Sector Sales 01344 860 456

Uruguay General Support toll-free: 000-413-598-2521
U.S.A. (Austin, Texas)

International Access
Code: 011

Country Code: 1

Automated Order-Status Service toll-free: 1-800-433-9014
AutoTech (portable and desktop computers) toll-free: 1-800-247-9362
Consumer (Home and Home Office)
Technical Support toll-free: 1-800-624-9896
Customer Service toll-free: 1-800-624-9897
DellNet™ Service and Support toll-free: 1-877-Dellnet

(1-877-335-5638)
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-695-8133
Financial Services website: www.dellfinancialservices.com
Financial Services (lease/loans) toll-free: 1-877-577-3355
Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA]) toll-free: 1-800-283-2210
Business
Customer Service and Technical Support toll-free: 1-800-822-8965
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-695-8133
Projectors Technical Support toll-free: 1-877-459-7298
Public (government, education, and healthcare)
Customer Service and Technical Support toll-free: 1-800-456-3355
Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-234-1490
Dell Sales toll-free: 1-800-289-3355

or toll-free: 1-800-879-3355
Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers) toll-free: 1-888-798-7561
Software and Peripherals Sales toll-free: 1-800-671-3355
Spare Parts Sales toll-free: 1-800-357-3355
Extended Service and Warranty Sales toll-free: 1-800-247-4618
Fax toll-free: 1-800-727-8320
Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or Speech-

Impaired

U.S. Virgin Islands General Support 1-877-673-3355
Venezuela General Support 8001-3605

toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY

(1-877-335-5889)

Solving Problems

Power Problems
Error Messages
Video and Display Problems
Sound and Speaker Problems
Printer Problems
Modem and Internet Connection Problems
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
External Keyboard Problems
Unexpected Characters

Power Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.

Check the power light — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power light

is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit standby mode
press the power button to turn on the computer or to exit hibernate mode

Drive Problems
PC Card Problems
Smart Card Problems
Network Problems
General Program Problems
If Your Dell™ Computer Gets Wet
If You Drop or Damage Your Computer
Resolving Other Technical Problems

. If the light is off,

.

Charge the battery — The battery charge may be depleted.

1. Reinstall the battery.

2. Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

3. Turn on the computer.

Check the battery status light — If the battery status light flashes orange or is a steady orange the battery

charge is low or depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
If the battery status light flashes green and orange, the battery is too warm to charge. Shut down the

computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to
room temperature.

If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. Contact Dell.

Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such

as a lamp.

Check the AC adapter — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that

the light is on.

Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet — Bypass power protection devices, power strips,

and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

Eliminate possible interference — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other

appliances.

Adjust the power properties — See "Power Management

Reseat the memory modules — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, reseat

the memory modules.

."

Error Messages

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

Auxiliary device failure — The touch pad, track stick, or external mouse may be faulty. For an external

mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program. If the
problem persists, contact Dell

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

CD drive controller failure — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer. See "Drive

Problems."

Data error — The floppy or hard drive cannot read the data. See "Drive Problems."

Decreasing available memory — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly seated. Reseat

the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them.

Disk C: failed initialization — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests as described

in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

Floppy drive 0 seek failure — The system configuration information may not match the hardware

configuration. Run the Diskette tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

Diskette read failure — The floppy disk may be defective. If the drive access light turns on, try a different

disk. See "Drive Problems

Diskette subsystem reset failed — The floppy drive controller may be faulty. Run the Diskette tests as

described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

Diskette write-protected — Because the floppy disk is write-protected, the operation cannot be completed.

Slide the write-protect notch.

."

."

."

."

.

Drive not ready — The operation requires a floppy disk in the drive or a hard drive in the bay before it can

continue. Insert a floppy disk, or push the floppy disk all the way into the drive until the eject button pops out.
Or, install a hard drive

Error reading PCMCIA card — The computer cannot identify the PC Card. Reinsert the card or try another PC

Card.

Extended memory size has changed — The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not match the

memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell

Gate A20 failure — A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace

them.

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. Turn off the computer,

in the hard drive bay.

.

remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a bootable floppy disk or CD. Then turn off the computer,

reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests as described in "Using the Dell

Diagnostics."

Hard-disk drive controller failure 0 — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer.

Turn off the computer, remove the hard drive
turn off the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another
drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

Hard-disk drive failure — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer. Turn off the

computer, remove the hard drive
computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the
Hard-Disk Drive tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

Hard-disk drive read failure — The hard drive may be defective. Turn off the computer, remove the hard

drive, and boot the computer from a bootable floppy disk or CD. Then turn off the computer, reinstall the hard

drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests as
described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

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

bootable floppy disk or CD.

Invalid configuration information-please run System Setup Program — 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 "Using the System Setup

Program."

, and boot the computer from a bootable floppy disk or CD. Then turn off the

, and boot the computer from a bootable floppy disk or CD. Then

."

."

."

Keyboard clock line failure — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard

Controller test as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

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 as
described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

Keyboard data line failure — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard

Controller test as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

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 as
described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

Memory address line failure at address, read value expecting value — A memory module may be faulty

or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules

Memory allocation error — The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the operating system,

another program, or a utility. Turn off 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.

."

."

and, if necessary, replace them.

Memory double word logic failure at address, read value expecting value — A memory module may be

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules

Memory odd/even logic failure at address, read value expecting value — A memory module may be

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules

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.

and, if necessary, replace them.

and, if necessary, replace them.

No boot device available — The computer cannot find the floppy disk or hard drive. If the floppy drive is

your boot device, ensure that a bootable floppy disk is in the 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. Contact Dell

No timer tick interrupt — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests as

described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

Non-system disk or disk error — A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy disk and restart the

computer.

Not a boot diskette — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable floppy disk. Insert a bootable

floppy disk.

."

.

Operating system not found — Contact Dell

Optional ROM bad checksum — The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell.

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® XP

1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2. Click Add or Remove Programs.

3. Select the program you want to remove.

4. Click Remove or Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen.

5. See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Windows 2000

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

2. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.

3. Select the program that you want to remove.

4. Click Change or Remove Programs.

5. See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Sector not found — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the floppy or hard drive. You may have a

defective sector or corrupted FAT on the floppy disk or hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility to
check the file structure on the floppy disk or hard drive. See the Windows Help and Support Center
Windows 2000) for instructions. If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and
then reformat the floppy disk or hard drive.

.

(Help in

Seek error — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the floppy disk or hard drive. If the error is

on the floppy disk, try another floppy disk.

Shutdown failure — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests as

described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

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
setup program. Then immediately exit the program. See "Using the System Setup Program
reappears, contact Dell

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

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

.

.

."

." If the message

"Using the System Setup Program."

Timer chip counter 2 failed — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests

as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics

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 as described in "Using

the Dell Diagnostics."

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 turn off the computer.

Video and Display Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.

If the display is blank

NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer supports, it is recommended

that you attach an external monitor to your computer.

Check the battery — If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted.

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.

Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such

as a lamp.

Check the AC adapter — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that

the light is on.

Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet — Bypass power protection devices, power strips,

and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

Adjust the power properties — Search for the keyword standby in Windows Help or the Windows Help and

Support Center.

Switch the video image — If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press

the video image to the display.

to switch

If the display is difficult to read

Adjust the brightness — See "Adjusting Brightness" for instructions on adjusting the brightness.

Move the subwoofer away from the computer or monitor — If your external speaker system includes a

subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.

Eliminate possible interference — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other

appliances.

Rotate the computer to face a different direction — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture

quality.

Adjust the Windows display settings —

Windows XP

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

2. Click Appearance and Themes.

3. Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.

4. Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.

Windows 2000

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

2. Double-click the Display icon and click the Settings tab.

3. Try different settings for Colors, Screen area, and Advanced Settings.

Run the Video diagnostics tests — If no error message appears and you still have a display problem, but

the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the Dell Diagnostics

See "Error Messages" — If an error message appears, see "Error Messages."

. Then contact Dell.

If only part of the display is readable

Connect an external monitor —

1. Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.

2. Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls.

If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact Dell

.

Sound and Speaker Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.

If you have a problem with the integrated speaker

Adjust the Windows volume control — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your

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

Adjust the volume using keyboard shortcuts — See "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

." Press

to disable (mute) or reenable the integrated speaker.

Reinstall the sound (audio) driver — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities."

For Windows 2000 only, ensure that digital audio for the CD drive is enabled —

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

2. Double-click the System icon.

3. Click the Hardware tab.

4. Click Device Manager.

5. Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives.

6. Double-click the name of the drive.

7. On the drive Properties screen, click the Properties tab.

8. Click the box near the bottom of the screen to enable digital audio for your CD or DVD drive.

If you have a problem with external speakers

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

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

Check the speaker cable connections — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.

Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such

as a lamp.

Ensure that the speakers are turned on — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.

Adjust the Windows volume control — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your

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

Test the speakers — Plug the speaker audio cable into the

headphone volume control is turned up. Play a music CD.

Run the speaker self-test — Some speaker systems have a self-test button on the subwoofer. See the

speaker documentation for self-test instructions.

Eliminate possible interference — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for

interference.

Reinstall the sound (audio) driver — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Run the Misc. PCI Devices diagnostic test — See "Using the Dell Diagnostics." If the tests complete

successfully, the controller is functioning properly.
If the problem persists, or if the tests do not complete successfully, contact Dell

For Windows 2000 only, ensure that digital audio for the CD drive is enabled —

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

2. Double-click the System icon.

3. Click the Hardware tab.

4. Click Device Manager.

5. Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives.

6. Double-click the name of the drive.

7. On the drive Properties screen, click the Properties tab.

8. Click the box near the bottom of the screen to enable digital audio for your CD or DVD drive.

connector on the computer. Ensure that the

."

.

Printer Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.

Check the printer cable connections — Ensure that the printer cable is properly connected to the computer.

Check the printer cable —

1. Shut down the computer and turn off the printer.

2. Swap the printer cable with a cable that you know is working.

3. Turn on the printer and computer, and try again to print.

4. If you print successfully, contact Dell

Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such

as a lamp.

Ensure that the printer is turned on — See the documentation supplied with the printer.

Verify that Windows recognizes the printer —

Windows XP

1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2. Click Printers and Other Hardware.

3. Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer model is listed, right-click the printer icon.

4. Click Properties and click the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is
LPT1 (Printer Port).

Windows 2000

for assistance in obtaining a new printer cable.

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers.
If the printer model is listed, right-click the printer icon.

2. Click Properties and click the Ports tab.

3. Ensure that the Print to the following port: option is set to USB.

Reinstall the printer driver — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Check the printer — Run the printer self-test. If the test does not complete successfully, the printer is

probably defective. Contact the printer manufacturer.

."

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

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

network may damage the modem.

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

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist

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

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

as you complete these checks.

Check the telephone wall jack — Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a

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

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

Connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack — If you have other telephone devices sharing the

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

Check the connection — Verify that the telephone line is connected to the modem.

Check the telephone line — Try using a different telephone line. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or

more in length, try a shorter one.

Irregular dial tone — If you have voice mail service, you might hear an irregular dial tone when you have

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

Turn off call waiting (catch-phone) — See your telephone directory for instructions on deactivating this

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

Windows XP

1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2. Click Printers and Other Hardware, click Phone and Modem Options, click the Dialing Rules tab,

and then click Edit....

3. In the Edit Location window, ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and then select
the proper code as listed in your telephone directory.

4. Click Apply and click OK.

5. Close the Phone and Modems Options window.

6. Close the Control Panel window.

Windows 2000

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

2. Click Phone and Modem Options.

3. Click the Dialing Rules tab and click Edit.

4. Ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and then select the proper code as listed in your
telephone directory.

5. Click Apply and click OK.

6. Close the Phone and Modem Options window.

Verify that the modem is communicating with Windows —

Windows XP

1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2. Click Printers and Other Hardware and click Phone and Modem Options.

3. Click the Modems tab.

4. Click the COM port for your modem.

5. Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is
communicating with Windows.

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

Windows 2000

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

2. Double-click Phone and Modem Options.
If multiple entries for the same modem or modems are listed but not installed, delete the entries, restart

the computer, and repeat steps 1 and 2.

3. Click the Modems tab.

4. Click the COM port for your modem.

5. Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is
communicating with Windows.

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

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.

Check the touch pad settings —

Windows XP

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

2. Click Mouse.

3. Try adjusting the settings.

Windows 2000

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

2. Double-click the Mouse icon.

3. Try adjusting the settings.

Check the mouse cable — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for damage, and

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

To verify that the problem is with the mouse, check the touch pad —

1. Shut down the computer.

2. Disconnect the mouse.

3. Turn on the computer.

4. At the Windows

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

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

Check the system setup program settings — Verify that the system setup program lists the correct device

for the pointing device option. (The computer automatically recognizes a USB mouse without making any
setting adjustments.)

Test the mouse controller — To test the mouse controller (which affects pointer movement) and the

operation of the touch pad or mouse buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing Devices test group in the

Dell Diagnostics

Reinstall the touch pad driver — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities."

.

External Keyboard Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.

NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when working in MS-DOS® mode or when running the Dell Diagnostics or the

system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

Check the keyboard cable — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for

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

Check the external keyboard —

1. Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.

2. Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.

3. From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to Accessories, and click
Notepad.

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

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

To verify that the problem is with the external keyboard, check the integrated keyboard —

1. Shut down the computer.

2. Disconnect the external keyboard.

3. Turn on the computer.

4. From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to Accessories, and click
Notepad.

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

If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external
keyboard.

Run the keyboard diagnostics tests — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics

the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell

.

Unexpected Characters

Disable the numeric keypad — Press to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed

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

Drive Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.

If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive

. If

Ensure that an external floppy drive is connected to the computer — Install the floppy drive in the Dell

D/Bay or use the optional USB cable to connect the floppy drive to the computer.

Ensure that Windows recognizes the drive — In Windows XP, click the Start button and click My

Computer. In other operating systems, double-click My Computer. If the drive is not listed, perform a full

scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows
from recognizing the drive. Insert a bootable disk and restart the computer.

Ensure that the disk is not write-protected — You cannot save data to a write-protected disk.

Try another floppy disk — Insert another disk to eliminate the possibility that the original disk is defective.

Reinstall the drive —

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

2. Remove the drive from the Dell D/Bay

3. Reinstall the drive.

4. Turn on the computer.

.

Check the D/Bay cable — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the D/Bay cable from the computer, and

firmly reconnect the cable.

Clean the drive — See "Cleaning Your Computer

Check the drive for errors —

If a drive error message appears, see "Error Messages" for an explanation.
Run the Diskette tests as described in "Using the Dell Diagnostics."

" for instructions.

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

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

High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. The noise does not indicate a defect with the drive or the CD.

Ensure that Windows recognizes the drive — In Windows XP, click the Start button and click My

Computer. In other operating systems, double-click My Computer. If the drive is not listed, perform a full

scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows
from recognizing the drive. Insert a bootable disk and restart the computer.

Try another disc — Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original disc is defective.

Adjust the Windows volume control — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your

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

Reinstall the drive

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

2. Remove the drive. See "Using the Dell™ D/Bay

3. Reinstall the drive.

4. Turn on the computer.

Clean the drive or disc — See "Cleaning Your Computer

Check the drive for errors

If a drive error message appears, see "Error Messages
Run the IDE Drives tests as described in the Dell Diagnostics

" for instructions.

" for instructions.

" for an explanation.

.

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

1. Ensure that the computer is shut down.

2. Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive; push firmly until
the tray is partially ejected.

3. Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

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

Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.

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

Disable standby or hibernate mode in Windows before writing to a CD-RW — Search for the keyword

standby or hibernate in Windows Help or the Windows Help and Support Center

Change the write speed to a slower rate — See the help files for your CD or DVD creation software.

Exit all other open programs — Exiting all other open programs before writing to the CD-RW or DVD+RW

may alleviate the problem.

.

If you have problems with a hard drive

Allow the computer to cool before turning it on — A warm hard drive may prevent the operating system

from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.

Check the drive for errors —

Run the Windows error-checking tool:

1. In Windows XP, click the Start button and click My Computer. In Windows 2000, double-click My
Computer.

2. Right-click the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and then click Properties.

3. Click the Tools tab.

4. Under Error-checking, click Check Now.

5. Click Start.
Run the IDE Drives tests as described in the Dell Diagnostics.

PC Card Problems

Check the PC Card — Ensure that the PC Card is properly inserted into the connector.

Ensure that the card is recognized by Windows — Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware (Unplug

or Eject Hardware in Windows 2000) icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.

Run the PC Card diagnostics test — See the documentation that came with the PC Card for instructions if a

diagnostics test was provided with the card.

If you have problems with a Dell-provided PC Card — Contact Dell

If you have problems with a PC Card not provided by Dell — Contact the PC Card manufacturer.

.

Smart Card Problems

Check the smart card — Ensure that the smart card is properly inserted into the smart card slot.

Ensure that the smart card is recognized by Windows — Double-click the Unplug or Eject Hardware

icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the smart card is listed.

If you have problems with a Dell-provided smart card — Contact Dell

If you have problems with a smart card not provided by Dell — Contact the smart card manufacturer.

.

Network Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.

Check the network cable connector — Ensure that the network cable connector is firmly connected to the

connector on the computer and the network wall jack.

Check the network lights on the network connector — Green indicates that the network connection is

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

Restart the computer — Try to log on to the network again.

Contact your network administrator — Verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is

functioning.

General Program Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.

A program crashes

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

See the software documentation — Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that

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

A program stops responding

End the program

1. Simultaneously press

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

3. Click End Task.

.

A solid blue screen appears

Turn the computer off — If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper shutdown, press the

power button until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer.

Windows XP

The computer restarts.

Windows 2000

The solid blue screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows shutdown. ScanDisk
automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Error messages appear

Review "Error Messages" — Look up the message and take the appropriate action. See the software

documentation.

Confirm that the problem is software-related — Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell

Diagnostics. If all tests in the device group run successfully, the problem may be software-related. See the

software documentation.

If Your Dell™ Computer Gets Wet

CAUTION: Perform this procedure only after you are certain that it is safe to do so. If the computer is

connected to an electrical outlet, Dell recommends that you turn off AC power at the circuit breaker before
attempting to remove the power cables from the electrical outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing
wet cables from a live power source.

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

2. Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from the computer.

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

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

5. Remove the battery.

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

7. Remove the hard drive.

8. Remove the memory modules

9. Open the display and place the computer right-side up across two books or similar props to let air circulate all around
it. Let the computer dry for at least 24 hours in a dry area at room temperature.

.

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

CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is thoroughly dry before continuing

with the rest of this procedure.

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

11. Replace the memory modules, the memory module cover, and the screws.

12. Replace the hard drive.

13. Connect the external module bay, and replace any PC Cards you removed.

14. Replace the battery.

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

NOTE: See your System Information Guide for information on your warranty coverage.

If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, contact Dell

.

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

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

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

3. Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from the computer.

4. Remove and reinstall the battery.

5. Turn on the computer.

NOTE: See your System Information Guide for information on your warranty coverage.

If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, contact Dell

.

Resolving Other Technical Problems

Go to the Dell Support website — Go to support.dell.com for help with general usage, installation, and

troubleshooting questions. See "Getting Help
by Dell.

E-mail Dell — Go to support.dell.com and then click E-Mail Dell in the Communicate list. Send an e-mail

message to Dell about your problem; you can expect to receive an e-mail message from Dell within hours. See
"Getting Help

Contact Dell — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell Support website (support.dell.com) or e-

mail service, call Dell for technical assistance. See "Getting Help
software support provided by Dell.

" for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.

" for a description of the hardware and software support provided

" for a description of the hardware and