Dell LATITUDE D630 PP24L, LATITUDE D630c PP24L, Latitude D630, Latitude D630c User Manual

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Dell™ Latitude™ D630/D630c

User’s Guide

Model PP24L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

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

avoid the problem.

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

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft Windows® operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Latitude , ExpressC har ge, TravelLite, Strike Zone , W i-Fi Catcher, and Client Manager are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Core, Active Management Technology, Centrino, and Intel are registered trademarks of

Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Outlook, Windows, Windows Vista are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries; Bluetooth is a registered tradem ark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; TouchStrip is a trademark of UPEK, Inc.; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

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

Model PP24L

September 2009 P/N HN566 Rev. A04

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Contents

1 Finding Information

2 About Your Computer

Front View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

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

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

3 Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft® Windows® XP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the

Operating System Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

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

Microsoft Windows Vista

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

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

Easy Transfer Cable for Windows Vista . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

4 Using a Battery

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft Charge Gauge

Windows® Power Meter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

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

Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Conserving Battery Power

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

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

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

Contents 3

Page 4

Power Management Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Standby and Sleep Mode Hibernate Mode

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

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

Configuring Power Management Settings

Accessing Power Options Properties

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

Battery Errors

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

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

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

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

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

5 Using the Keyboard

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Key Combinations

System Functions Battery Display Functions

Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Touch Pad

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

Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick

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

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

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

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

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

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

6 Using the Display

4 Contents

Changing the Track Stick Cap

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

Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Using the Ambient Light Sensor

Switching the Video Image

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Dual Independent Display Mode

Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

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

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

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

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

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7 Setting Up and Using Networks

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft

Windows® XP Operating System . . . 52

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista

Wireless Local Area Network

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

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection Checking Your Wireless Network Card

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

Operating System. . . 52

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

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

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

Connecting to a WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Enabling/Disabling the Dell™ Mobile Broadband Card . . . . . . . . . . 58

Managing Your Network Settings Through the Dell QuickSet Location Profiler

Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

Microsoft

Windows® Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

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

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

. . 56

8 Using Multimedia

Playing Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Copying Media

How to Copy Media Using Blank Media Helpful Tips

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

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

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

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

Contents 5

Page 6

9 Using Cards

Card Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

PC Cards ExpressCards

Smart Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Card Blanks Extended Cards

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

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

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

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

Installing a PC Card or ExpressCard

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

PC Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

ExpressCards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Removing a Card or Blank

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

10 Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Smart Card

Passwords

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

About Smart Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Installing a Smart Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

About Passwords Using a Primary (or System) Password Using an Administrator Password

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Using a Hard Drive Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Enabling the TPM Feature

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Security Management Software

Activating the Security Management Software Using the Security Management Software

Computer Tracking Software

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Display Touch Pad Mouse

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

6 Contents

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Page 7

Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

CDs and DVDs

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

11 Troubleshooting

Diagnostic Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Diagnostic Light Codes During POST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Dell™ Technical Update Service

Dell Diagnostics

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

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive Starting the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities Media

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

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

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

. . . . 85

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Dell Support Utility

Accessing the Dell Support Utility Clicking the Dell Support Icon Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon

Drive Problems

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Media drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray . . . . . 88

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

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

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

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

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

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

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

External Keyboard problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Unexpected characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up The computer stops responding A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows®

operating system A solid blue screen appears

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . 96

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Contents 7

Page 8

Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Memory Problems

Network Problems

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

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

General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network)

PC Card Problems

Power Problems

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

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

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

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Docking Power Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

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

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

No sound from integrated speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

No sound from external speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

No sound from headphones

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

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

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

Video and Display Problems

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

If the display is blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

If the display is difficult to read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

If only part of the display is readable

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

12 Intel® Active Management Technology

13 System Setup Program

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Viewing the System Setup Screens

System Setup Screens

Commonly Used Options

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Changing the Boot Sequence Changing Printer Modes Changing COM Ports

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

8 Contents

Page 9

14 Reinstalling Software

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

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

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

Using the Hardware Troubleshooter Tool

Microsoft Windows XP Microsoft Windows Vista

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Windows® System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Using the Operating System Media

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

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

15 Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Hinge Cover

Keyboard

Internal Card With Bluetooth

Coin-Cell Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

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

Wireless Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

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

Memory

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Card

Mobile Broadband Card

Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Card

Hard Drive

Media Bay

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

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

Removing Media Bay Devices

FCM (Flash Cache Module)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

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

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

Contents 9

Page 10

16 Dell™ QuickSet

17 Traveling With Your Computer

Identifying Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

Packing the Computer

Travel Tips

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

Traveling by Air

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

18 Specifications

19 Getting Help

Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Technical Support and Customer Service DellConnect Online Services

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

AutoTech Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Automated Order-Status Service

Problems With Your Order

Product Information

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Before You Call

Contacting Dell

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

20 Appendix

FCC Notice (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

FCC Class B

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

Macrovision Product Notice

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

10 Contents

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

Page 11

Finding Information

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

media may not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• My device documentation

• Notebook System Software (NSS)

Drivers and Utilities Media

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media may be optional and

may not ship with your computer.

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the media to reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 116) or to run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 83).

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

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at

support.dell.com.

Finding Information 11

Page 12

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

• Basic troubleshooting information

• How to run the Dell Diagnostics

• How to open my computer

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Quick Reference Guide

NOTE: This document may be optional and may not ship with

your computer.

NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at

support.dell.com.

Dell™ Product Information Guide

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

12 Finding Information

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License

These labels are located on your computer:

• Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you

support.dell.com

use

or contact support.

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

Page 13

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

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

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

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

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

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

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates

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

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business segment to view the

appropriate support site.

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

, select your region or business

segment, and enter your Service Tag.

Select

Drivers & Downloads

Click your operating system and search for the keyword

Notebook System Software

and click Go.

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary

depending on your selections.

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

• How to use Windows XP

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

Dell Support Utility

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

Windows Help and Support Center

Click

Start→

Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and

Help and Support

click the arrow icon.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Finding Information 13

Page 14

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

• How to reinstall my operating system

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Dell QuickSet Help

To view icon in the Microsoft

Dell QuickSet Help

Windows® taskbar.

, right-click the QuickSet

For more information on Dell QuickSet, see "Dell™ QuickSet" on page 147.

Operating System Media

NOTE: The Operating System media may be optional and may

not ship with your computer.

The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the media (see "Reinstalling Windows" on page 121).

After you reinstall your operating system, use the optional

Utilities

drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

Your operating system product key label is located on your computer.

Operating System

Drivers and

media to reinstall

NOTE: The color of your

media varies based on the operating system you ordered.

•Intel® Active Management Technology (iAMT) features and management

14 Finding Information

Systems Management Administrator’s Guide

NOTE: iAMT is available for Dell™ Latitude™ D630c

computers with iAMT capability only.

To view the

support.dell.com

Systems Management Administrator’s Guide

, go

Page 15

About Your Computer

Front View

About Your Computer 17

Page 16

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

display latch

device status lights

fingerprint reader (optional)

keyboard status lights

mute button

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

display

keyboard

touch pad buttons/track stick buttons

volume control buttons

power button

touch pad

track stick

ambient light sensor

18 About Your Computer

Page 17

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

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is flashing.

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

Turns on when wireless devices are enabled.

Turns on when Bluetooth®

wireless technology is enabled. To enable or disable Bluetooth wireless technology, move the wireless switch to the "on" position. See "wireless switch" on page 22 for more information.

NOTE: Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional feature on your

computer, so the icon turns on only if you ordered Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer. For more information, see the documentation that came with your Bluetooth wireless technology.

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

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

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

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

DISPLAY—For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on page 47.

DISPLAY LATCH—Keeps the display closed.

DISPLAY LATCH BUTTON—Press this button to release the display latch and open the display.

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

information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Using the Keyboard" on page 41.

Windows® logo key. For

About Your Computer 19

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KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

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

mode.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, shut down your computer instead of pressing the power button.

FINGERPRINT READER (OPTIONAL)—Helps to keep your Dell™ computer secure. When you slide your finger over

the reader, it uses your unique fingerprint to authenticate your user identity. For information on how to activate and use the security management software that controls the fingerprint reader, see "Security Management Software" on page 77.

AMBIENT LIGHT SENSOR—Detects available environmental light and automatically increases or decreases the

display backlighting to compensate for low-light and high-light environments. Press the <Fn> and leftarrow keys to enable or disable the sensor ("Using the Ambient Light Sensor" on page 47).

NOTE: The ambient light sensor is disabled when your computer is connected to AC power.

20 About Your Computer

Page 19

Left Side View

1 2 3 65 7 84 9

security cable slot

smart card slot (with blank)

Wi-Fi Catcher™ light

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

computer from overheating.

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

your 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.

air vents

1394 connector

PC Card slot

audio connectors (2)

wireless switch

hard drive

NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not

indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.

SECURITY CABLE SLOT—Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer (see

"Security Cable Lock" on page 71).

AUDIO CONNECTORS

About Your Computer 21

Page 20

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Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

SMART CARD SLOT (WITH BLANK)—Supports one smart card. Smart cards provide a variety of functions,

including security features and data storage. The blank prevents foreign matter from entering the interior of the computer when a smart card is not installed in the smart card slot. For more information and instructions on removing the blank, see "Smart Cards" on page 67.

WIRELESS SWITCH—When enabled through Dell QuickSet, this switch can scan for a wireless LAN (WLAN)

in your vicinity. You can also use it to rapidly turn off or on any wireless devices such as WLAN cards and internal cards with Bluetooth wireless technology (see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 58).

1 2 3 4

"off" position

"on" position

"momentary" position

Disables wireless devices

Enables wireless devices

Scans for WLAN networks (see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 58)

Wi-Fi Catcher light

I-FI CATCHER

™

LIGHT—The light operates as follows:

– Flashing green: Searching for networks – Solid green: Strong network found – Solid yellow:

Weak network found – Flashing yellow: Error – Off: No signal found

NOTE: The Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator light appears only when the computer is turned off and

wireless networking is activated in the system setup program. While working in Microsoft Windows operating systems, the light is designed not to appear.

22 About Your Computer

Page 21

PC CARD SLOT—Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter. The computer ships with a blank installed in the slot to prevent foreign matter from entering the computer interior when a card is not installed (see "Card Types" on page 67).

NOTE: Your computer does not have an ExpressCard slot. To use an ExpressCard, use an adapter for the

PC Card slot.

HARD DRIVE—Stores software and data.

Right Side View

optical drive in media bay

MEDIA BAY—Supports a floppy or an optical drive, second battery, second hard drive, or a Dell TravelLite™

media-bay device latch release

2 3

USB connectors (2)

module (see "Using Multimedia" on page 61).

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

CONNECTORS

USB

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

About Your Computer 23

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Back View

1 2 63 4 75

network connector (RJ-45)

serial connector

air vents

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

your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)

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

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

modem connector (RJ-11)

video connector

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

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

USB connectors (2)

AC adapter connector

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

CONNECTORS

USB

24 About Your Computer

Connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

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

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

Page 23

SERIAL CONNECTOR

CONNECTOR

VIDEO

AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR

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

Connects video devices, such as a monitor.

Connects an AC adapter to the computer.

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

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

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

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.

About Your Computer 25

Page 24

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

computer from overheating.

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

your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

Bottom View

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battery charge gauge/health

gauge

device locking screw (if present)

air vents

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE/HEALTH GAUGE—Provides information on the battery charge (see "Checking the Battery

Charge" on page 34).

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

electrical outlet (see "Using a Battery" on page 33).

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASES—Releases the battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 38 for instructions).

26 About Your Computer

battery

memory module cover

hard drive

battery-bay latch releases (2)

docking-device connector

device locking screw

Page 25

DEVICE LOCKING SCREW—If present, locks devices, such as an optical drive, in place.

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

documentation that came with your docking device for more information.

About Your Computer 27

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MEMORY MODULE COVER—Covers the compartment that contains the second memory module connector

(DIMM B) (see "Memory" on page 129).

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

the computer from overheating.

28 About Your Computer

Page 27

Transferring Information to a New Computer

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

Microsoft® Windows® XP

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

• E-mail messages

• Toolbar settings

•Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

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

NOTE: You can transfer information from the old computer to the new computer by directly connecting a

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

For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, see Microsoft

Knowledge Base 87uArticle #305621, titled How to Set Up a Direct Cable Connection Between Two Computers in Windows XP. This information may not be available in some countries.

For transferring information to a new computer, you must run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. You can use the optional wizard disk with the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

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

NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System media. This media is optional and may not be

included with all computers.

To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:

Start the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

Operating System

media for this process or you can create a

Transferring Information to a New Computer 29

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

When the

On the

Windows XP CD

When the Do

not

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

and click

Now go to your old computer

click

at this time.

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

Under

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

, click

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

What do you want to transfer?

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer

screen, click

I will use the wizard from the

and click

screen appears, go to your old or source computer.

Operating System

screen, click

Transfer files and settings

welcome screen, click

Old Computer

media.

Perform additional tasks

and click

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Finish

Completing the Collection Phase

screen appears.

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

screen, select the method you chose for transferring

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

Click

Finished

and restart the new computer.

Finished

screen appears.

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

To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the 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:

Click

Start→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

When the

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer→

Operating System

media, you must

On the

following drive

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

→

30 Transferring Information to a New Computer

Next.

screen, click

I want to create a Wizard Disk in the

Page 29

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

When the disk creation completes and the appears,

Go to the old computer.

do not

click

Now go to your old computer

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click the

In the removable media) and click

On the

Start→

Open

Run

field on the

Run

window, browse to the path for

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

What do you want to transfer?

welcome screen, click

Old Computer→

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

fastwiz

message

(on the appropriate

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Finish

Completing the Collection Phase

screen appears.

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

. Follow the instructions on the screen.

screen, select the method you chose for transferring

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

Click

Finished

NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search support.dell.com for document #PA1089586

(How Do I Transfer Files From My Old Computer to My New Dell Computer Using the Microsoft®

Windows

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

Microsoft Windows Vista

and restart the new computer.

XP Operating System?).

Finished

screen appears.

Easy Transfer Cable for Windows Vista

Insert the Easy Transfer Cable for Windows Vista Application Software media into the computer you are transferring data from.

Follow the on-screen instructions until you are prompted to connect the Transfer Cable.

Transferring Information to a New Computer 31

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Connect the Easy Transfer Cable to the source computer.

You are prompted to select a device option.

Continue until you are prompted to plug the other end of the Easy Transfer Cable into the destination computer.

The screen indicates that a connection has been made.

At the computer you are transferring data from, follow the on-screen instructions to select the settings and files you want to transfer.

You will come to a screen that indicates you are ready to transfer files.

From the destination computer, view the transfer and wait for the indication that the transfer is complete.

Select

You are prompted to restart the computer.

Select

Yes

The computer reboots and the transfer is complete.

32 Transferring Information to a New Computer

Page 31

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

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

separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer.

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

NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer

to an electrical outlet the first time you use the computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, check the Power Meter in Power Options (see "Accessing Power Options Properties" on page 37).

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

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

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

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

DVD.

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

•Using optical drives.

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

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

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 37 for information about accessing Windows Power Options Properties or Dell QuickSet, which you can use to configure power management settings.

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

Using a Battery 33

Page 32

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

battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.

CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a

charge, call your local waste disposal or environmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" in the

CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture,

incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.

Product Information Guide

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Checking the Battery Charge

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

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

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

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

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

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

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

Charge Gauge

By either pressing once or battery, you can check:

pressing and holding

the status button on the charge gauge on the

Power Meter

window and battery meter

Help

• Battery charge (check by pressing and

• Battery health (check by pressing and

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

34 Using a Battery

releasing

holding

the status button)

Page 33

Check the Battery Charge

To check the battery charge,

press and release

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

Check the Battery Health

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

described below and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, rightclick the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

To check the battery health using the charge gauge,

press and hold

the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See "Charge Gauge" on page 34 for more information about the battery operating time.

Low-Battery Warning

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

Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet, or install a second battery in the media bay. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.

A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. If two batteries are installed, the low-battery warning means that the combined charge of both batteries is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer enters hibernate mode when the battery charge is at a critically low level.

You can change the settings for the battery alarms in QuickSet or the

Power Options Properties

window. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 37 for information about accessing QuickSet or the

Power Options Properties

window.

Conserving Battery Power

Perform the following actions to conserve battery power:

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

• Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time. See "Power Management Modes" on page 36.

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

Power Options Properties

window to select

Using a Battery 35

Page 34

NOTE: See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 37 for information on conserving battery

power.

Power Management Modes

Standby and Sleep Mode

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby or sleep mode, it may lose data.

To enter standby mode in Windows XP, click the click

Stand by

Start

button, click

Turn off computer

, and then

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

Sleep

Depending on how you set the power management options in the

Power Options Properties

window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, you may also use one of the following methods:

• Press the power button.

• Close the display.

• Press <Fn><Esc>.

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

Hibernate Mode

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

NOTICE: You cannot remove devices or undock your computer while your computer is in hibernate

mode.

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

To manually enter hibernate mode in Windows XP, click <Shift>, and click

Hibernate

For information about the hibernate mode in Windows Vista, search for the keyword Windows Help and Support (click

36 Using a Battery

Start→

Help and Support

Tur n o ff com p u ter

, press and hold

hibernate

Page 35

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

• Press the power button.

• Close the display.

• Press <Fn><F1>.

NOTE: Some PC Cards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove and

reinsert the card (see "Removing a Card or Blank" on page 69), or simply restart (reboot) your computer.

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

Power Options Properties

Configuring Power Management Settings

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

Accessing Power Options Properties

Help

Windows XP

Click

Start→

Windows Vista

Click

Start→

Control Panel→

Performance and Maintenance→

System and Maintenance→

Power Options

Charging the Battery

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

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

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

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

Using a Battery 37

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

For information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 99.

Replacing the Battery

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

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

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

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

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

To remove the battery:

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

Ensure that the computer is turned off.

Slide the two latch releases on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the battery from the bay.

To replace the battery, follow the removal procedure in reverse order.

38 Using a Battery

Page 37

Storing a Battery

Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully (see "Charging the Battery" on page 37) before you use it.

Battery Errors

To address error codes generated by the battery, refer to "Error Messages" on page 90.

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40 Using a Battery

Page 39

Using the Keyboard

Numeric Keypad

numeric keypad

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

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

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

Using the Keyboard 41

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Key Combinations

System Functions

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the

Task Manager

window.

Battery

<Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter (see "Dell™

QuickSet Battery Meter" on page 34).

Display Functions

<Fn><F8> Switches the video image to the next display option. The

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

<Fn><F7> Scales between wide-screen and standard aspect ratio

video resolutions.

<Fn> and left-arrow key Activates the ambient light sensor, which controls

brightness of the display based on light level in the current environment.

<Fn> and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on

an external monitor).

<Fn> and down-arrow key Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not

on an external monitor).

Power Management

<Fn><Esc> Activates a power management mode. You can reprogram

<Fn><F1> Puts the computer into hibernate mode. Dell QuickSet is

Microsoft

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

42 Using the Keyboard

Windows® Logo Key Functions

this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the

Options Properties

Properties" on page 37).

required (see "Dell™ QuickSet" on page 147).

window (see "Accessing Power Options

Advanced

tab in the

Power

Page 41

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

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

Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer.

Windows logo key and <r> Opens the

Windows logo key and <f> Opens the

Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f> Opens the

computer is connected to a network).

Windows logo key and <Pause> Opens the

Run

dialog box.

Search Results

Search Results-Computer

System Properties

dialog box.

dialog box (if the

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click

Printers and Other Hardware

the Help and Support Center (click

, and click

Start→

Keyboard

. For information about the Control Panel, access

Help and Support

Touch Pad

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

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

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

Using the Keyboard 43

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

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

You can also use the track stick to move the cursor. Press the track stick left, right, up, or down to change the direction of the cursor on the display. Use the track stick and track stick buttons as you would use a mouse.

Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick

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You can use the

Mouse Properties

window to disable the touch pad and track stick or adjust their

settings.

Open the Control Panel, and then click

Mouse

. For information about the Control Panel,

access the Help and Support Center (click Start→ Help and Support).

In the

•Click the

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Mouse Properties

Device Select

Touch Pa d

window:

tab to disable the touch pad and track stick.

tab to adjust touch pad and track stick settings.

Changing the Track Stick Cap

You can replace your track stick cap if it wears down from prolonged use or if you prefer a different color. You can purchase additional caps by visiting the Dell website at

dell.com

44 Using the Keyboard

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Pull the cap off the track stick.

Align the new cap over the square track stick post and gently press the cap down onto the post.

NOTICE: The track stick can damage the display if it is not properly seated on the post.

Test the track stick to ensure that the cap is seated properly.

Using the Keyboard 45

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46 Using the Keyboard

Page 45

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

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

NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors or

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

You can press the following keys to adjust display brightness:

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

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

Using the Ambient Light Sensor

The ambient light sensor is located on the bottom of the computer display panel. The ambient light sensor detects available environmental light and automatically increases or decreases the display backlighting to compensate for low-light and high-light environments.

You can enable or disable the ambient light sensor by pressing the <Fn> and left-arrow key combination.

NOTE: Do not cover the ambient light sensor with any adhesive labels. If covered up, the ambient light

sensor automatically sets the display brightness to the minimum level.

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ambient light sensor

The ambient light sensor is disabled when your computer is shipped to you. If you enable the ambient light sensor and then use any of the display brightness key combinations, the ambient light sensor is disabled and the display brightness is increased or decreased accordingly.

NOTE: The ambient light sensor is disabled when your computer is connected to an electrical outlet.

Dell™ QuickSet allows you to enable or disable the ambient light sensor. You can also adjust maximum and minimum brightness settings that are activated when you enable the ambient light sensor feature. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click

Help

NOTE: Rebooting the computer returns the ambient light sensor to the last setting of enabled or

disabled.

NOTE: The ambient light sensor adjusts the display backlighting on your portable computer only. It does

not control the brightness on any external monitors or projectors.

Switching the Video Image

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

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

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Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

To display a program at a specific resolution, both the graphics card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.

Before you change any of the default display settings, make a note of the default settings for future reference.

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

your Dell-installed operating system.

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

Click the

Under

Under click

In the Display Properties window, click the

Try different settings for

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

If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode. In pan mode, the entire screen cannot be displayed at one time. For example, the taskbar that usually appears at the bottom of the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the rest of the screen, use the touch pad or track stick to pan up, down, left, and right.

Start

button and click

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display

Control Panel

, click

Appearance and Themes

, click the area you want to change, or under

Color quality

Settings

and

Screen resolution

tab.

or pick a Control Panel icon

NOTICE: You can damage an external monitor by using an unsupported refresh rate. Before adjusting

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

Dual Independent Display Mode

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

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

Under

Under click

In the

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

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

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display

, click the area you want to change, or under

Display Properties

, click

Appearance and Themes

window, click the

Settings

or pick a Control Panel icon

tab.

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

Change

If prompted to restart the computer, click click

If prompted, click OK to resize your desktop.

If prompted, click

Click OK to close the

Screen resolution

Apply

to the appropriate sizes for both displays and click

Yes

to keep the settings.

Display Properties

Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor

Apply

Apply the new color setting without restarting

window.

check

To disable dual independent display mode:

Click the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the option, and then click

Settings

tab in the

Apply

Display Properties

Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor

window.

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

Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays

To swap your primary and secondary display designations (for example, to use your external monitor as your primary display after docking):

Click the

Start

button and click

Control Panel

and

Under

Under click

Click the

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display

Settings

, click

Appearance and Themes

, click the area you want to change, or under

tab→

Advanced→

Displays

tab.

or pick a Control Panel icon

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

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Setting Up and Using Networks

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

The Windows XP and Windows Vista operating systems provide wizards to help guide you through the process of networking computers. For more information about Networking, access the Help and Support Center (click

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

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

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

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

that it is securely attached.

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

connector.

Start→

Help and Support

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

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

Click

Start→

Next→ Checklist for creating a network

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

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

Complete the checklist.

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

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications→

Network Setup Wizard

→

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

Click the Windows Vista Start button

network

Select an option under

Click

Choose a connection option

, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

, ,

and click

Connect To→ Set up a connection or

Wireless Local Area Network

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

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:

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

• A broadband modem that is connected and working

• A wireless router or access point

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

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

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Checking Your Wireless Network Card

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

•The

Start

button and the

Connect To

option

• The order confirmation for your computer

Start Button and Connect To Option

In Microsoft Windows XP

In Microsoft Windows Vista

, click

Start→ Connect To→

, click

Start→ Connect To→

Show all connections

View network computers and devices

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

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

Right-click

Click

The

Wireless Network Connection Properties

name and model number are listed on the

NOTE: If your computer is set to the Classic Start menu option, you can view network connections

The Order Confirmation for Your Computer

Wireless Network Connection

Properties

window appears. The wireless network card’s

General

by clicking the Start→ Settings→ Network Connections. If Wireless Network Connection does not appear, you may not have a wireless network card.

tab.

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

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

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

Ensure that you have wired Internet access through your broadband modem before you attempt to set up a wireless Internet connection (see "Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable" on page 51).

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

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

Start

or menu.

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Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.

Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem.

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

NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before you continue

with the network setup.

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

modem.

Connect the other end of the network cable into the Internet network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered wireless router.

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

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

failure.

Tur n on

only

your broadband modem and wait for at least 2 minutes for the broadband

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

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

Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.

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

• Establish communication between your computer and your wireless router.

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

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

If necessary, configure your wireless network card to connect to the wireless network (see "Connecting to a WLAN" on page 54).

Connecting to a WLAN

NOTE: Before you connect to a WLAN, ensure that you have followed the instructions in "Wireless Local

Area Network" on page 52.

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

technology or cellular products.

This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary. See "Wireless Local Area Network" on page 52 for more information about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.

54 Setting Up and Using Networks

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

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

your wireless network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on page 53.

Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager

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

• Your wireless network card’s client utility

• The Windows XP or Windows Vista operating system

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

Click

Start→

Right-click the

Networks

If the

Choose a wireless network

Settings→

Control Panel→

Wireless Network Connection

window states

Network Connections

icon, and then click

View Available Wireless

Windows cannot configure this connection

, the

wireless network card’s client utility is managing the wireless network card.

If the

Choose a wireless network

wireless network in range or to get more information

window states

Click an item in the list below to connect to a

, the Windows XP operating system is

managing the wireless network card.

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

Click

Start→ Connect To→ Manage wireless networks.

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

For specific information about the wireless configuration utility installed on your computer, see your wireless network documentation in the Windows Help and Support Center (click

Help and Support

Completing the Connection to the WLAN

Start→

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet

The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. To turn the wireless activity indicator on or off, click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select the indicator is on. If

Wireless Activity Indicator Off

Hotkey Popups

. If

Wireless Activity Indicator Off

is checked, the indicator is off.

is not checked,

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

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

Help

Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)

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

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

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

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

NOTE: Depending on your computer, you can use a Mini Card to establish a Mobile Broadband network

connection.

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

• A Mini Card

• An activated Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) for your service provider

NOTE: Only Cingular and Vodafone need a SIM card. Verizon, Sprint, and Telus do not use a SIM.

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

If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide for instructions. The user’s guide is available through the Windows Help

56 Setting Up and Using Networks

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and Support Center

(click Start→ Help and Support)

or on the media that accompanied

your card if you purchased it separately from your computer.

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

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

• Your order confirmation

• Microsoft Windows Help and Support Center

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

Click

Start→

diagnose problems

Under

Tools

installed on this computer.

Help and Support→

, click

My Computer Information→

Use Tools to view your computer information and

Find information about the hardware

On the

My Computer Information - Hardware

screen, you can view the type of Mobile Broadband

card installed in your computer as well as other hardware components.

NOTE: The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems.

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mini-Cards. They do not apply to internal cards with wireless

technology.

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

cellular service provider. For instructions and for additional information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide available through the Windows Help and Support Center (click Start→ Help and Support). support.dell.com and on the media included with your Mobile Broadband card if you purchased the card separately from your computer.

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

Click the

Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon

utility.

Click

Connect

NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button.

The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at

on the Windows desktop, to run the

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

Click

Start→ All Programs→

Click

Dell Wireless Broadband

Dell Wireless

and follow the instructions on the screen.

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Enabling/Disabling the Dell™ Mobile Broadband Card

NOTE: If you are unable to connect to a Mobile Broadband network, ensure that you have all the

components for establishing a Mobile Broadband connection (see "What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection" on page 56), and then verify that your Mobile Broadband card is enabled by verifying the setting of the wireless switch.

You can turn your Mobile Broadband card on and off using the wireless switch on your computer.

You can turn your computer’s wireless devices on and off with the wireless switch on the left side of the computer (see "Left Side View" on page 21).

If the switch is in the "on" position, move the switch to the "off" position to disable the switch and the Mobile Broadband card. If the switch is in the "off" position, move the switch to the "on" position to enable the switch and the Dell Mobile Broadband card. For information about the wireless switch positions, see "wireless switch" on page 22.

To monitor the status of your wireless device, see "Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet" on page 56.

Managing Your Network Settings Through the Dell QuickSet Location Profiler

The Dell QuickSet Location Profiler helps you manage network settings that correspond to your computer’s physical location. It includes two categories of profile settings:

• Location Profile Settings

• General Mobility Settings

You can use computer in your office, home, or other public places with Internet services.

Settings

Location Profile Settings

to create profiles for accessing the Internet with your

General Mobility

allows you to change the way network connections are handled. The profiles consist of different network settings and equipment that you need when using your computer in different locations.

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

Help

Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

The wireless switch on your Dell computer uses the Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator to scan specifically for WiFi WLAN in your vicinity. For more information about the wireless switch, see "wireless switch" on page 22.

To scan for WiFi WLAN, slide and hold the switch in the "momentary" position for a few seconds. The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator functions regardless of whether your computer is turned on or off, in hibernate mode, or in standby mode, as long as the switch is configured through Dell QuickSet or the BIOS (system setup program) to control WiFi network connections.

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Because the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator is disabled and not configured for use when your computer is shipped to you, you must first use Dell QuickSet to enable and configure the switch to control WiFi network connections.

NOTE: The Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator light appears only when the computer is turned off and

wireless networking is activated in the system setup program. While working in Microsoft Windows operating systems, the light is designed not to appear.

For more information on the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator and to enable the feature through Dell QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select

Help

Microsoft

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

When Windows Firewall is enabled for a network connection, the firewall icon appears with a red background in the

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

For more information, click Help and Support Center (click

Windows

Network Connections

Firewall

section of the Control Panel.

Start→ Control Panel→ Security→ Windows Firewall

Start→

Help and Support

, or access the

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Using Multimedia

Playing Media

NOTICE: Do not press down on the media tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you

are not using the drive.

NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing media.

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

Pull out the tray.

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

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

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

countries).

Push the tray back into the drive.

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

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

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Play.

Move backward within the current track.

Pause.

Move forward within the current track.

Stop.

Go to the previous track.

Eject.

Go to the next track.

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:

Stop.

Restart the current chapter.

Play.

Fast forward.

Pause.

Fast reverse.

For more information on playing media, click

62 Using Multimedia

Advance a single frame while in pause mode.

Go to the next title or chapter.

Continuously play the current title or chapter.

Go to the previous title or chapter.

Eject.

Help

on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Page 61

Copying Media

NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when creating media.

This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD (combo) drive.

NOTE: The types of media drives offered by Dell may vary by country.

The following instructions explain how to make a copy using Roxio Creator Plus - Dell Edition. You can also use Roxio Creator Plus for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Roxio Creator Plus, and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.

How to Copy Media

NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive

and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at sonic.com.

The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator

Plus.

Open Roxio Creator Plus.

Under the

To copy med i a :

•

Copy

tab, click

Disc Copy

If you have one media drive

, ensure that the settings are correct, and then click

Disc Copy

The computer reads your source media and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

When prompted, insert a blank media into the drive and click

•

If you have two media drives

media, and then click

, select the drive into which you have inserted your source

Disc Copy

. The computer copies the data from the source media to

the blank one.

Once you have finished copying the source media, the media that you have created automatically ejects.

Using Blank Media

CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed CD-RW media) while DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.

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Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After the maximum storage capacity of a CD-R is reached, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on the CD later.

Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of data. After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is

finalized

closed

during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+/-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on the disc later.

CD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

CD-RW Yes Yes Yes

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

CD-RW Yes Yes Yes

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D+R W Yes Ye s Yes

DV D-R W Yes Ye s Yes

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Maybe No No

DVD-RAM Maybe No No

Helpful Tips

• Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Roxio Creator Plus and open a Creator project.

• Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs may not play in many home or car stereos.

• You cannot create audio DVDs with Roxio Creator Plus.

• Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.

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• Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may not support all available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by your DVD player, see the documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer.

• Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1–2 MB of blank space to finalize the recording.

• Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank CD-RWs to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.

• See the Sonic website at

sonic.com

for additional information.

Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the media playing.

Open the

Click and drag the bar in the decrease the volume.

For more information on volume control options, click

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

Volume C o ntrol

window.

Volume C o ntrol

column and slide it up or down to increase or

Help

in the

Volume Control

window.

Disable On Screen Volume Meter

, or

volume icon

When the meter is enabled, adjust the volume with the volume control buttons.

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

Volu m e Met er

mute icon

Help

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Adjusting the Picture

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

Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System

Click

Start→

Under

In the drop-down menu under

Click OK.

Pick a task...

Screen resolution

Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System

Click the Windows Vista Start button

Personalization

Under

In the drop-down menu under

Personalization

Resolution:

Control Panel→ Appearance and Themes

, click

Change the screen resolution

, click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution setting.

Color quality

, ,

, click

Medium (16 bit).

and click

Control Panel→

, click

Adjust Screen Resolution

click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution setting.

Colors

, click

Medium (16 bit)

and click OK.

Appearance and

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Using Cards

NOTE: Electrical and electronic devices are sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). If a substantial

ESD occurs, the device may reset and the device software may attempt to reinitialize a connection. If the software is not operational after an ESD occurrence, restart the modem software program.

Card Types

PC Cards

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

NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device.

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

ExpressCards

See "PC Card" on page 151 for information on supported ExpressCards.

NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.

ExpressCards leverage PC Card technology to provide a fast and convenient way to add memory, wired and wireless network communications (including Mobile Broadband network [also known as WWAN] communications), multimedia, and security features to your computer. To use an ExpressCard in the PC Card slot, you must use an adapter (optional).

Smart Cards

Smart cards provide valuable tools for security, data storage, and special programs (see "Smart Card" on page 71).

Card Blanks

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

To remove a blank, see "Removing a Card or Blank" on page 69.

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Extended Cards

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

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

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

Installing a PC Card or ExpressCard

You can install a PC Card or ExpressCard in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card.

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

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

Product Information Guide

PC Card

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

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

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

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

ExpressCards

Place the ExpressCard in the adapter (the adapter is included with the ExpressCard).

Install the ExpressCard with the adapter the same way as a PC Card. (See "PC Cards" on page 67)

Removing a Card or Blank

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

Product Information Guide

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

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

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

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Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock

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

A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell™ computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device.

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

computer.

Smart Card

NOTE: For information on how to secure your computer while traveling, see "Traveling With Your

Computer" on page 149.

NOTE: The smart card feature may not be available on your computer.

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About Smart Cards

Smart cards are portable credit-card shaped devices with internal integrated circuits. The top surface of the smart card usually contains an embedded processor under the gold contact pad. The combination of the small size and integrated circuits make smart cards valuable tools for security, data storage, and special programs. Using smart cards can improve system security by combining something a user has (the smart card) with something only the user should know (a PIN) to provide more secure user-authentication than passwords alone.

Installing a Smart Card

You can install a smart card in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card.

To install a smart card:

Hold the card so that the gold contact pad is facing upward and pointing toward the smart card slot.

gold contact pad

Slide the smart card into the smart card slot until the card is completely seated in its connector. The smart card will protrude approximately 1/2 inch from the slot. The smart card slot is located below the PC Card slot.

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

72 Securing Your Computer

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Passwords

Passwords prevent unauthorized access to your computer. When using passwords, observe the following guidelines:

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

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

• Do not share your password with other people.

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

NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However,

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

Use the

User Accounts

option in the Control Panel in the Microsoft® Windows® operating system to create user accounts or to change passwords. Once you create a user password, you must enter it each time you turn on or unlock your computer. If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state.

For more information, see your Windows documentation.

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About Passwords

NOTE: Passwords are disabled when you receive your computer.

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

Type of Password Features

Primary (or system) • Protects the computer from unauthorized access

Administrator • Gives system administrators or service technicians

access to computers for repair or reconfiguration

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

• Can be used instead of the primary password

Hard drive • Helps protect the data on your hard drive from

unauthorized access

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

NOTE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However, they

are not foolproof. For security, the Dell Latitude

When using passwords, observe the following guidelines:

™ D630/630c ships with a smart card reader.

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

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

• Do not share passwords with other people.

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

NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However,

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

If you forget any of your passwords, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 164). For your protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.

Using a Primary (or System) Password

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

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

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

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

To add or change passwords, access

User Accounts

from the

Control Panel

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

Using an Administrator Password

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

To set or change administrator passwords, access

When you set an administrator password, the setup. The

Configure Setup

option allows you to restrict access to system setup in the same way

that a primary password restricts access to the computer.

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

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

NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the computer, but it does not provide access to

the hard drive when a hard drive password is assigned.

If you forget the primary password and do not have an administrator password assigned, or if you have both a primary and an administrator password assigned but forget them both, contact your system administrator or contact Dell (see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159).

User Accounts

Configure Setup

from the Control Panel.

option becomes available in system

Using a Hard Drive Password

The hard drive password helps protect the data on your hard drive from unauthorized access.

To assign or change a hard drive password, enter system setup (see "System Setup Program" on page 111).

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

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

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

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

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

mode.

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If you do not enter the correct password in three attempts, the computer tries to start from another bootable device if the another device. If the

Boot First Device

option in system setup is set to allow start-up from

option is not set to allow the computer to start from

another device, the computer returns to the operating state it was in when you turned it on.

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

NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the computer, but it does not provide access to

the hard drive when a hard drive password is assigned.

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Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

NOTE: Computers shipping into China are not equipped with the TPM feature.

NOTE: The TPM feature may not be supported in all countries.

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

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

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

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

the Broadcom Secure Foundation Getting Started Guide. In the event of these backups being incomplete,

lost, or damaged, Dell will be unable to assist in the recovery of encrypted data.

Enabling the TPM Feature

Enable the TPM software:

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

Select

Security→

TPM Security

and press <Enter>.

Under

Press <Esc> to exit the setup program.

If prompted, click

Activate the TPM setup program:

Restart the computer and press <F2> during the Power On Self Test to enter the

TPM Security

system setup program.

Select

Security→

Under

TPM Activation

76 Securing Your Computer

, select On.

Save/Exit

TPM Activation

, select

Activate

and press <Enter>.

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NOTE: You only need to activate the program once.

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

Security Management Software

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

• Log-in management

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

•Encryption

• Private information management

Activating the Security Management Software

NOTE: You must first enable the TPM in order for the security management software to have full

functionality.

Enable the TPM feature (see "Enabling the TPM Feature" on page 76).

Load the security management software:

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

In the drop-down menu, select

Wave EMBASSY Trust Suite

and press <Enter> to

create the icons for the software components on the computer desktop.

Press <Esc> to exit the setup program.

If prompted, click

Save/Exit

Using the Security Management Software

For information about how to use the software and the different security features, see the

Started Guide

Click

Start→ All Programs→ Wave EMBASSY Trust Suite→ Getting Started Guide

for the software:

Getting

Computer Tracking Software

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

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

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

company that provides the tracking service to report the missing computer.

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

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

NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area. If

you do not know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.

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

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

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

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Cleaning Your Computer

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

Product Information Guide

Computer, Keyboard, and Display

CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and

remove any installed batteries. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.

• Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from between the keys on the keyboard.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer or display, do not spray cleaning solution directly onto the

display. Only use products specifically designed for cleaning displays, and follow the instructions that are included with the product.

• Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with either water or a display cleaner, and wipe the display until it is clean.

NOTICE: To prevent damage to the antiglare coating, do not wipe the display with soap or alcohol.

• Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water and wipe the computer and keyboard. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.

• To clean your monitor screen, lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth with water. You can also use a special screen-cleaning tissue or solution suitable for the monitor’s antistatic coating.

• Wipe the keyboard, computer, and monitor plastics with a soft cleaning cloth moistened with a solution of three parts water and one part dishwashing detergent.

Do not soak the cloth or let water drip inside your computer or keyboard.

Touch Pad

Shut down and turn off your computer.

Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets.

Remove any installed batteries (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 38).

Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe it gently across the surface of the touch pad. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.

Mouse

NOTICE: Disconnect the mouse from the computer before cleaning the mouse

If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse.

Cleaning a Non-Optical Mouse

Clean the outside casing of the mouse with a cloth moistened with a mild cleaning solution.

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Turn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counterclockwise, and then remove the ball.

Wipe the ball with a clean, lint-free cloth.

Blow carefully into the ball cage or use a can of compressed air to dislodge dust and lint.

If the rollers inside the ball cage are dirty, clean the rollers with a cotton swab moistened lightly with isopropyl alcohol.

Recenter the rollers in their channels if they are misaligned. Ensure that fluff from the swab is not left on the rollers.

Replace the ball and retainer ring, and turn the retainer ring clockwise until it clicks into place.

Cleaning an Optical Mouse

Clean the outside casing of the mouse with a cloth moistened with a mild cleaning solution.

Floppy Drive

NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign the heads

which prevents the drive from operating.

Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain pretreated floppy disks to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation.

CDs and DVDs

NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions

that come with the compressed-air product. Never touch the lens in the drive.

If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try cleaning the discs.

Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.

With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a

straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disc.

For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also purchase commercial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust, fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are also safe to use on DVDs.

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Troubleshooting

Diagnostic Lights

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

shipped with your computer.

Your computer has three keyboard status lights located above the keyboard. During normal operation, the keyboard status lights display the current status ( Lock, and Scroll Lock features. If the computer starts without error, the lights flash, and then turn off. If the computer malfunctions, however, you can use the status of the lights to help identify the problem.

NOTE: After the computer completes POST, the Num Lock light may remain on, depending on your BIOS

settings. For more information on using the system setup program, see "System Setup Program" on page 111.

Diagnostic Light Codes During POST

To troubleshoot a problem with your computer, read the sequence of the keyboard status lights in order from left to right (Num Lock, Caps Lock, and then Scroll Lock). If the computer malfunctions the individual lights display a status of either

Off

off

) of the Num Lock, Caps

, or

Flashing

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Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

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No memory modules are detected.

Memory modules are detected, but a memory failure has occurred.

• If two or more memory modules are installed, remove the modules, then reinstall one module and restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, continue to install additional memory modules (one at a time) until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error (see "Memory" on page 129).

• If available, install working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Memory" on page 129).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.

• If available, install working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Memory" on page 129).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.

System board failure has occurred.

A possible processor failure has occurred.

82 Troubleshooting

Contact Dell Support.

• Reseat the processor (see "Memory" on page 129).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.

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Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

A possible graphics card/video failure has occurred.

A possible LCD failure has occurred.

A possible keyboard failure has occurred.

A possible modem failure has occurred.

• Reseat any installed graphics cards.

• If available, install a working graphics card into your computer.

• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.

• Reseat the LCD cable (see your computer’s

• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.

• Reseat the keyboard (see "Keyboard" on page 126).

• If available, connect an external keyboard.

• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.

• If available, install a working modem into your computer.

• If the problem persists, contact contact Dell Support.

Service Manual

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

http://support.dell.com/technicalupdate

Dell Diagnostics

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 163) as you complete these checks.

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

Product Information Guide

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 95 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

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

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NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.

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

Enter the System Setup Program (see "System Setup Program" on page 111), review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test displays in system setup and is active.

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Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the

Drivers and Utilities

media.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 164).

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

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:

When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press <Enter>.

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

the Microsoft

NOTE: Before attempting option B, the computer must be powered down completely.

Press and hold the <Fn> key while powering the computer on.

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.

Windows® desktop; then, shut down your computer and try again.

The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment, a series of initial tests of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, etc.

• During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.

• If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart the computer, press <N>; to continue to the next test, press <Y>; to retest the component that failed, press <R>.

• If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s) and contact Dell.

If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you will receive the following message:

Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key

to continue.

Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.

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Starting the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities Media

Insert the

Shut down and restart the computer.

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

Drivers and Utilities

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

the Microsoft® Windows® desktop; then, shut down your computer and try again.

media.

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

Drive

and press <Enter>.

Select the

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

Select

Boot from CD-ROM

option from the menu that appears and press <Enter>.

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

IDE CD-ROM DeviceCD/DVD/CD-RW

from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed,

select the version appropriate for your computer.

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

appears, select the test you want to run.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the option you want.

Option Function

Express Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes 10

to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part.

Express Test

Run the problem quickly.

Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically

takes 1 hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically.

Main Menu

first to increase the possibility of tracing

screen appears, click the button for the

Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you

want to run.

Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows

you to select a test based on the symptom of the problem you are having.

If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.

Troubleshooting 85

Page 84

If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159).

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact

Dell, technical support will ask for your Service Tag.

If you run a test from the

Custom Test

Symptom Tree

option, click the applicable tab

described in the following table for more information.

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

encountered.

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Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the

problem description.

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for

running the test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected

device.

The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from system setup, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names of all the components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.

Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test

settings.

When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the

Utilities

When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the

media, remove the media.

Main Menu

screen.

Drivers and

screen. To exit

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 updates, and health scans of your computing environment.

Accessing the Dell Support Utility

Access the Dell Support Utility from the Dell Support icon on the taskbar or from the

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

Click the

86 Troubleshooting

Start

button and point to

Start

button. Use this support utility for self-support information, software

Start

Programs

menu.

Page 85

Click

Dell Support

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.

and point to

Dell Support Settings

Show icon on the taskbar

option is checked.

The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment.

The Dell Support icon in the taskbar functions differently when you click, double-click, or rightclick 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 the Dell Support Utility off

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.

Drive Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 163) as you complete these checks.

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

Product Information Guide

NSURE THAT MICROSOFT

Computer

. If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus

WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE—

software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.

TEST THE DRIVE—

• Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.

• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.

Click the

Start

button and click

Troubleshooting 87

Page 86

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CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK.

NSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED ONTO THE SPINDLE.

HECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS.

HECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES.

UN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS—

See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 83.

Media drive problems

NOTE: High-speed media drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a

defect in the drive or the media.

NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all

DVD drives.

Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive

CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS—

The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the CD/DVD-RW.

TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC—

Search for the keyword

standby

in the Windows Help and Support Center for information on power management modes. To access the Help and Support Center, click

CHANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE—

Start→

Help and Support

See the help files for your media creation software.

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

Ensure that the computer is shut down.

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.

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.

Hard drive problems

ALLOW THE COMPUTER TO COOL BEFORE TURNING IT ON—

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

RUN CHECK DISK—

Click the

Right-click

Start

button and click

Local Disk C:

88 Troubleshooting

A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system

My Computer

Page 87

Click

Click the

Under

Click

Properties

Error-checking

Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors

Start

Tools

tab.

, click

Check Now

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 163) as you complete these checks.

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

Product Information Guide

NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not operate while it is

connected to a digital telephone network.

CHECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS—

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION.

HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK.

ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK.

SE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE—

Tools

, click

Options

to remove the checkmark.

•Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the

If you cannot open your e-mail attachments:

, and then click

Security

modem. (The jack has either a green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.)

• Ensure that you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.

• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.

• 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 connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.

RUN THE MODEM DIAGNOSTIC TOOL—

Modem Diagnostic Tool

Click the

Start

button, point to

All Programs

and then click

. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem

problems.

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS—

Click the

Click

Start

button and click

Printers and Other Hardware

Phone and Modem Options

Control Panel

Troubleshooting 89

Page 88

Click the

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click

Modems

Properties

tab.

, click the

Diagnostics

tab, and then click

Query Modem

modem is communicating with Windows.

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

to verify that the

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ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET—

provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click

Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet

File

. If

Work O ffline

has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service provider.

SCAN THE COMPUTER FOR SPYWARE —

If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to

support.dell.com

and search for the keyword

spyware

Error Messages

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 163) as you complete these checks.

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

Product Information Guide

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—

mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159).

The touch pad, track stick, or external mouse may be faulty. For an external

BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME—

proper place, and used the correct pathname.

CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE—

Dell (see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159).

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE—

"Dell Support Utility" on page 86).

DATA ERROR—

DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY—

The hard drive cannot read the data (see "Dell Support Utility" on page 86).

Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory Problems" on page 97).

DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION—

Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 83).

90 Troubleshooting

Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces in the

The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed. Contact

The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer (see

One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly seated.

The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in the Dell

Page 89

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 "Drive Problems" on page 87).

ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD—

The computer cannot identify the PC Card. Reinsert the card or try

another PC Card (see "Installing a PC Card or ExpressCard" on page 68).

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 (see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159).

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

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

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

Do not use these characters

in filenames.

GATE A20 FAILURE—

A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,

replace them (see "Memory Problems" on page 97).

GENERAL FAILURE—

followed by specific information—for example,

The operating system is unable to carry out the command. The message is usually

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 "Hard drive problems" on page 88), and boot the computer from media. 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 83).

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 "Hard drive problems" on page 88), and boot the computer from media. 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 83).

HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE—

HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE—

The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard drive problems" on page 88), and boot the computer from media. 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 83).

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA—

The operating system is trying to boot to nonbootable media. Insert bootable

media.

Troubleshooting 91

Page 90

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 "System Setup Program" on page 111).

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KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE—

Controller

KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE—

test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 83).

For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard

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 83).

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 83).

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 83).

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 "Memory Problems" on page 97.

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 (see "Memory Problems" on page 97) 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 (see "Memory Problems" on page 97) and, if necessary, replace them.

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

or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory Problems" on page 97) and, if necessary, replace them.

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

improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory Problems" on page 97) and, if necessary, replace them.

NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE—

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

NO BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE—

Assistance" on page 159).

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT—

A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set

tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 83).

92 Troubleshooting

A memory module may be faulty

A memory module may be faulty or

The computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard drive is your boot

The operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell (see "Obtaining

Page 91

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

Close all windows and open the program that you want to use.

You have too many programs open.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND—

Reinstall the hard drive (see "Drive Problems" on page 87). If the

problem persists, contact Dell (see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159).

OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM—

The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell (see "Obtaining

Assistance" on page 159).

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.

Click the Start button and click

Click

Add or Remove Programs

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

Remove

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

SECTOR NOT FOUND—

Change/Remove

The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may have a

Control Panel

and follow the prompts on the screen.

defective sector or corrupted FAT on the hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility to check the file structure on the hard drive. For instructions, access the Help and Support Center (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—

SHUTDOWN FAILURE—

The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard drive.

A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in

the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 83).

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. If the message reappears, contact Dell (see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159).

TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED—

The reserve battery that supports the system configuration settings may

require replacement (see "Coin-Cell Battery" on page 128).

TIME-OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM—

program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the

The time or date stored in the system setup

Date

and

Time

options (see

"System Setup Program" on page 111).

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 83).

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 83).

X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY—

Insert a disk into the drive and try again.

Troubleshooting 93

Page 92

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.

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 163) as you complete these checks.

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

Product Information Guide

NSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS—

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Click the

Click

Start

button and click

Control Panel

Printers and Other Hardware

If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED IEEE 1394 DEVICE—

F YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY DELL—

Contact Dell (

NSURE THAT THE

see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159)

IEEE 1394

DEVICE IS PROPERLY INSERTED INTO THE CONNECTOR

or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer.

Keyboard Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 163) as you complete these checks.

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

Product Information Guide

NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program.

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

External Keyboard problems

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

HECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE—

damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

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

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

CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD—

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

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

94 Troubleshooting

Page 93

From the Windows desktop, click the and click

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

Notepad

Start

button, point to

Programs

, point to

Accessories

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—

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the external keyboard.

Turn on the computer.

From the Windows desktop, click the and click

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

Notepad

Start

button, point to

Programs

, point to

Accessories

If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159).

RUN THE KEYBOARD DIAGNOSTICS TESTS—

Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 83). If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell (see "Obtaining Assistance" on page 159).

Unexpected characters

DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD—

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

Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are

Lockups and Software Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 163) as you complete these checks.

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

Product Information Guide

The computer does not start up

ENSURE THAT THE AC ADAPTER IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE

ELECTRICAL OUTLET.

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You might 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. Then restart your computer.

Troubleshooting 95

Page 94

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly

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

ND THE PROGRAM—

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

Click

Tas k M anag e r

Click the program that is no longer responding.

Click

End Task

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CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION—

If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD—

it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows operating system environments.

Click

Start→

Follow the instructions on the screen.

All Programs→ Accessories→

The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so

Program Compatibility Wizard→ Next

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF—

moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or