Dell M2010 User Manual

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Dell™ XPS™ M2010

Owner’s Manual

Model PP03X

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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.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see "Glossary" on page 179.

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Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerV ault, PowerApp,

PowerConnect, Dell T ravelLite, Dell Media Experience, Dell MediaDirect, and XPS are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Core are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; 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 PP03X

February 2007 P/N RC676 Rev. A04

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

1 About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Left View

Right View

Back View

Bottom View

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2 Using the Keyboard and Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Pairing the Keyboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Keyboard Pairing Failed

Pairing the Mouse

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Mouse Pairing With the Wizard Mouse Pairing Failed

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

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System Functions Battery

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Display Functions Wireless Networking Technology Function Display Switch

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Power Management Microsoft Windows Logo Key Functions

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Touch Pad

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Customizing the Touch Pad and Mouse

Keyboard Battery

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Dell QuickSet Battery Meter

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Contents 3

Replacing the Keyboard Battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

3 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Playing Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CD, DVD, and BD Media

How to Copy a CD, DVD, or BD Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media Helpful Tips

Using Dell Media Experience and Dell MediaDirect

If the computer is turned on or in standby mode If the computer is turned off or in hibernate mode Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience Help

Using Your Computer With a TV or Audio Device

Connecting a Composite Video Adapter Connecting a Component Video Adapter Connecting Audio/IR Blaster Adapter Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio in Cyberlink PowerDVD Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio in the Windows Audio Driver Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

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4 Using the Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

4 Contents

Opening the Display Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Closing the Display Panel

Adjusting the Display Panel

Adjusting Brightness

Switching the Video Image

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Dual Independent Display Mode

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Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Using the Camera

Setting Up the Camera Accessing Help Taking a Picture or Recording a Video

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5 Using a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Inserting the Battery Removing the Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter Microsoft Windows Power Meter Charge Gauge Low-Battery Warning

Charging the Battery

Conserving Battery Power

Storing a Battery

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Power Management Modes

Standby Mode Hibernate Mode

Configuring Power Management Settings

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6 Setting Up Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System Installation

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

Installation Media

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Contents 5

Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Printer Cable Connecting a USB Printer

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Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors Line Conditioners Uninterruptible Power Supplies

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7 Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem . . . . . . . . . . 73

Network Setup Wizard

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

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

Connecting to a WLAN

Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager Completing the Connection to the WLAN Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet

Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

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

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8Using Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

6 Contents

Windows Firewall

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Supported Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Media Memory Card Reader Compact Flash Card Reader ExpressCard Reader

Extended Cards

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Installing a Media Memory Card or ExpressCard

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Removing a Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

9 Securing Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Passwords

Computer Tracking Software

If Your Computer is Lost or Stolen

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10 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Dell Technical Update Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Dell Diagnostics

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

Dell Support Utility

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

Drive Problems

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

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E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

Keyboard problems Unexpected characters

Lockups and Software Problems

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The computer does not start up The computer stops responding

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Contents 7

A program stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

A program crashes repeatedly A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating system A solid blue screen appears Dell MediaDirect problems Other software problems

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Memory Problems

Network Problems

General Mobile Broadband Network

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Media Memory Card or ExpressCard Problems

Power Problems

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Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

No sound from integrated speakers No sound from external speakers No sound from headphones

Mouse Problems

Video and Display Problems

If the display is blank If the display is difficult to read If only part of the display is readable

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11 System Setup Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

8 Contents

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Viewing the System Setup Screens

System Setup Screens

Commonly Used Settings

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Changing the Boot Sequence

About Your RAID Configuration

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RAID Level 0 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

RAID Level 1 Configuration Configuring Your Computer for RAID Configuring for RAID Using the Intel RAID Option ROM Utility Configuring for RAID Using the Intel Matrix Storage Manager

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12 Traveling With Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Identifying Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Packing the Computer

Travel Tips

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Traveling by Air

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13 Reinstalling Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft Using the Operating System Installation Media

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Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

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14 Adding and Replacing Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer

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Memory

Mini Card

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WLAN Cards

Coin-Cell Battery

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Contents 9

15 Dell QuickSet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

16 Specifications

17 Obtaining Assistance

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Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

AutoTech Service

Automated Order-Status Service

Support Service

Problems With Your Order

Product Information

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Before You Call

Contacting Dell

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18 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175

Caution Regarding Safety and Bluetooth devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175

Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Display Touch Pad

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CD, DVD, and BD Media

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Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

Index

10 Contents

Macrovision Product Notice

FCC Notice (U.S. Only)

FCC Class B

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

Finding Information

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

not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• Notebook System Software (NSS)

Drivers and Utilities Media (CD/DVD)

The Drivers and Utilities disc contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer. Use the Drivers and Utilities disc to load any required drivers, including drivers required if your computer has a RAID controller (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 120). You can also use this disc to run the Dell™ Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87).

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

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at

support.dell.com.

Dell Product Information Guide

Finding Information 11

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

Setup Diagram

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

• Model Name, electrical ratings, Agency approval marks

12 Finding Information

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License

The service tag label is located inside the computer base battery compartment of your computer.

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

The Microsoft Windows License Label in on the base of your computer.

Model Name, electrical ratings, and Agency approval marks

located inside the computer base battery compartment

are

of your computer. See

"Removing the Battery" on page 57

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business segment to view the

appropriate support site.

• 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

• 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 Dell 3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel

processors, optical drives, and USB devices. 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.

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

segment, and enter your Service Tag.

Select

Click your operating system and search for the keyword

Notebook System Software

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

Dell Support Utility

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

icon in the taskbar. For more information, see "Dell Support Utility" on page 90.

• How to use Windows XP

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

Windows Help and Support Center

Click

Start→

Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

, select your region or business

Drivers & Downloads

Help and Support

and click Go.

Finding Information 13

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

Dell QuickSet Help

To view

Dell QuickSet Help, right-click the icon

in the Microsoft Windows taskbar.

For more information on Dell QuickSet, see "Dell QuickSet" on page 135.

• How to reinstall my operating system

Operating System Installation Media (CD/DVD)

The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use your Operating System installation media (see "Reinstalling Windows XP" on page 124).

NOTE: The color of your installation media varies according

to the operating system you ordered.

• Information on Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition

• Standard remote control instructions

• Premium remote control instructions

Dell Media Center User’s Guide

Dell Premium Remote Control User’s Guide

This guide is available on support.dell.com.

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

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

14 Finding Information

About Your Computer

Front View

camera

speakers (8)

keyboard status lights (4)

touch pad

keyboard

infrared sensor

display latches (4)

MediaDirect button

mouse

touch pad buttons (2)

device status lights (5)

6 7

1012

911

display

power button

9 keyboard

buttons

12 base

optical drive

media control

media control buttons

About Your Computer 15

CAMERA — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat.

DISPLAY — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on page 49.

DISPLAY LATCHES (4) — To keep the display closed.

SPEAKERS (8) — To adjust the volume of the integrated speaker, press the volume control buttons, mute button, or

volume-control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Key Combinations" on page 31.

EDIADIRECT BUTTON — Controls access to Dell MediaDirect™. For more information, see "Using Dell Media

Experience and Dell MediaDirect" on page 42.

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

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

power management mode.

Windows® operating system

shutdown rather than by pressing the power button.

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

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS (4)

The blue lights located at the top right of the keyboard indicate the following:

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate keyboard battery charge status.

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.

16 About Your Computer

MOUSE — Wireless mouse. For more information, see "Using the Keyboard and Mouse" on page 27.

MEDIA CONTROL BUTTONS — Control playback of media.

Press to open or close the optical drive. If media is present in the closed drive, pressing this button will open the drive and eject the media.

Press once to go back to the start of the current playing track/chapter. Press multiple times to skip back to previous track/chapters. Press and hold to rewind within the current track/chapter.

Press to stop media playback.

Press once to skip forward one track/chapter. Press multiple times to skip forward multiple tracks/chapters. Press and hold to fast-forward within the current track/chapter.

Press to either play or pause the media.

Press to turn off the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers.

About Your Computer 17

Press to decrease the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers.

Press to increase the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers.

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 33 for more information.

TOUCH PAD BUTTONS (2) — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 33 for more

information.

KEYBOARD — The wireless keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Windows logo key. For information on

supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Numeric Keypad" on page 31.

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS (5)

18 About Your Computer

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 Bluetooth

wireless technology is enabled.

Turns on when wireless devices are enabled.

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

– Solid blue: The battery is charging. – Flashing blue: 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.

OPTICAL DRIVE — Plays CD, DVD and Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) media. The optical drive is controlled by the media

buttons. For more information, see "Using Multimedia" on page 37.

INFRARED SENSOR — Used to control your Media Center PC from up to 20 feet away with the standard remote

control.

Left View

1 24

security cable slot

headphone connector

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

3 5

USB 2.0 connectors (2)

wireless connection button

(Bluetooth wireless technology)

microphone connector

display latch release

About Your Computer 19

USB 2.0 CONNECTORS (2)

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

HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Attach headphones to the connector.

MICROPHONE CONNECTOR — Attach a microphone to the connector for voice or musical input into a sound or

telephony program.

WIRELESS CONNECTION BUTTON — Puts the computer into discover mode to connect the wireless keyboard and

mouse with the system using Bluetooth wireless technology if the pairing is lost. For more information, see "Pairing the Keyboard" on page 27 and "Pairing the Mouse" on page 29.

DISPLAY LATCH RELEASE — Slide these latches forward to open your display.

Right View

display latch release

compact flash card reader

20 About Your Computer

1 2 3 4 5

IEEE 1394 connector (firewire)

ExpressCard Slot

media memory card reader

IEEE 1394 CONNECTOR (FIREWIRE)—Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras, hard drives, and optical drives.

MEDIA MEMORY CARD READER — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and

videos stored on a media memory card. The media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory

cards:

• Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

• Memory Stick (MS)

• Memory Stick Pro

• xD-Picture Card

With a commonly available adapter, the memory card reader also reads the following digital media memory cards:

• MiniSD

•RSMMC

• Memory Stick Duo

• Memory Stick Pro Duo

COMPACT FLASH CARD READER — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and

videos stored on a media memory card. The media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory

cards:

• Compact Flash Type I

• Compact Flash Type II

• Microdrive

EXPRESSCARD SLOT —Supports 34- and 54-mm PCI ExpressCards or USB-based ExpressCards. See "Using Cards" on page 81.

NOTE: PCMCIA cards will not work in the ExpressCard slot.

About Your Computer 21

Back View

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.

1 2 3 4 65 7

modem connector (RJ-11)

S-video TV-out connector

AC adapter connector

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

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

For information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer (see "Finding Information" on page 11).

NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)

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

do not plug a telephone line into the network connector.

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

For information on using the network adapter, see the online network adapter documentation supplied with your computer.

network connector (RJ-45)

USB 2.0 connectors (2)

air vents (3)

digital-video interface (DVI-I) connector

audio/IR blaster adapter connector

22 About Your Computer

DIGITAL-VIDEO INTERFACE (DVI-I) CONNECTOR

Connects an external DVI-compatible monitor or a High Definition TV. With an adapter cable, you can also connect an external VGA-compatible monitor to the DVI connector.

S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

Connects your computer to a TV through this analog video out port. An adapter can be used for composite and component video out. See "Using Your Computer With a TV or Audio Device" on page 44.

/IR BLASTER ADAPTER CONNECTOR

AUDIO

Connects the following devices:

• multi-channel analog audio I/O to connect 7.1 speakers or 5.1 speakers with line input, microphones, MP3 players, tape decks, etc.

• digital S/PDIF output (TOSLINK optical connection) to connect home theater receivers, minidisk players, or high-end digital decoding 5.1 speakers

• IR blaster outputs are used by Windows Media Center Edition to control external consumer electronic devices, such as satellite/cable boxes, VCRs, etc.

For details, see "Connecting Audio/IR Blaster Adapter" on page 45.

AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR — 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.

About Your Computer 23

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.

AIR VENTS (3) — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the

computer from overheating. There are three sets of air vents on the back of the computer.

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

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

NOTE: The computer turns on the fan to keep the computer within proper functioning temperature. Fan noise is

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

Bottom View

memory module cover

battery latch release

24 About Your Computer

battery

subwoofer cover

battery charge gauge

fan air vents

MEMORY MODULE COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the secondary memory module. See "Memory"

on page 129.

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 55.

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE — Identifies the amount of charge remaining in the battery. See "Charge Gauge" on

page 60.

BATTERY LATCH RELEASE — Releases the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 55 for instructions.

SUBWOOFER COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the subwoofer.

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

computer from overheating.

NOTE: The computer turns on the fan to keep the computer within proper functioning temperature. Fan noise is

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

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

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

About Your Computer 25

26 About Your Computer

Using the Keyboard and Mouse

Your computer includes a detachable wireless keyboard and a wireless mouse with Bluetooth® wireless technology. A wireless connection has been established (paired) between the computer and keyboard. If the computer does not recognize the keyboard when you first power up the computer, they may not be properly paired. See "Pairing the Keyboard" on page 27.

Also, after powering up your computer for the first time, you must pair the mouse with the computer. See "Pairing the Mouse" on page 29.

NOTICE: Do not attempt to move the computer with the keyboard attached and the display open or the

keyboard will fall away from the computer base.

To detach the keyboard, grasp the sides of the keyboard and pull it straight out and away from the computer base.

The keyboard must be awake to recognize keystrokes. Ensure the keyboard is awake by touching the touchpad.

Pairing the Keyboard

If the computer fails to recognize the keyboard, the wireless connection may be broken. To reestablish the connection, see "Keyboard Pairing Failed" on page 28.

Using the Keyboard and Mouse 27

Keyboard Pairing Failed

If your computer fails to recognize the keyboard, follow these steps:

Press the power button to turn the computer off, and then press the power button again to restart the

computer; wait about three minutes for the operating system to load and the computer to initialize the drivers.

Press the wireless connection button on the left side of the computer base and hold until the Bluetooth light on the computer flashes.

1 wireless connection button on computer base

Press the wireless connection button on the back of the keyboard and hold for about four seconds to put the keyboard into "discover" mode. The Caps lock, Scroll, and Num lock wireless Bluetooth lights on the keyboard will be solid blue. Release the wireless connection button on the keyboard and these lights will all start flashing.

1 wireless connection button on keyboard

The computer may go through a series of beeps before the pairing occurs.

Test the pairing by touching the touchpad to move the cursor to ensure that pairing was successful.

If pairing was unsuccessful, repeat these steps as necessary to pair your keyboard with your computer.

28 Using the Keyboard and Mouse

Pairing the Mouse

The Dell™ XPS™ M2010 Mouse Connection Wizard launches the first time you turn on your computer. Follow the instructions on the wizard to pair your mouse with your computer.

Mouse Pairing With the Wizard

Follow the instructions on the Wizard:

Insert two AA batteries, which are shipped uninstalled, into the mouse and replace the battery cover.

1 2

1 batteries 2 battery cover

Using the Keyboard and Mouse 29

3 2

1 back button 2 forward button 3 wireless light

4 scroll wheel 5 left mouse button 6 right mouse button

7 power switch 8 wireless (Bluetooth)

connection button

Power on the mouse by sliding the power switch on the bottom of the mouse to the On position. The

9 optical sensor

red optical sensor lights when the mouse is on.

Press the wireless (Bluetooth) connection button on the bottom of the mouse to put the mouse into "discover" mode.

Click

on the

has been connected and is ready to use

the mouse to click

Wizard

within 30 seconds to complete the pairing. The message

Finish

to complete the pairing.

Your mouse

displays when the pairing is complete. Use

If the mouse and computer fail to pair, see "Mouse Pairing Failed" on page 30.

Mouse Pairing Failed

If the Mouse Connection Wizard does not launch or repeatedly fails to pair your mouse with the computer:

Ensure the Bluetooth Wizards are enabled. Select click

on the

Power off the mouse by sliding the switch on the bottom of the mouse to the

Enable Wizards

30 Using the Keyboard and Mouse

window.

Start→ All Programs→ Bluetooth→ Wizards

Off

position.

, and

Using the keyboard or touchpad, select the computer, then press the power button to restart the computer. Wait about three minutes for the operating system to load and the computer to initialize the drivers.

Follow the instructions on the Wizard. Power on the mouse by sliding the switch on the bottom of the

mouse to the mouse.

Click

has been connected and is ready to use

the mouse to click on the mouse will stop blinking and continue to light for 2 to 3 seconds, and then go out.

position, and press the wireless (Bluetooth) connection button on the bottom of the

on the

Wizard

within 30 seconds to complete the pairing. The message

Finish

to complete the pairing. After completing the pairing, the blue wireless light

Start→ Turn Off Computer→ and click

displays when the pairing is complete. Use

Turn O f f

to shut down

Your mouse

Numeric Keypad

1 numeric keypad

The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions.

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

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

Key Combinations

System Functions

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

Using the Keyboard and Mouse 31

Battery

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

QuickSet Battery Meter" on page 59).

Display Functions

Wireless Networking Technology Function

<Fn><F2> Enables and disables wireless 802.11 networking

technology. It does not disable the Bluetooth wireless technology.

Display Switch

<Fn><F8> Allows you to switch the currently active display from the

LCD to a connected CRT or external monitor, projector, or TV. To select a display, press and hold <Fn> and press <F8> until the desired display is highlighted, then release.

Power Management

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

reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window.

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

required. See "Dell QuickSet" on page 135.

Microsoft Windows Logo Key Functions

Windows logo key and <m>

Windows logo key and <Shift><m>

Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer.

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

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

32 Using the Keyboard and Mouse

Minimizes all open windows.

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 <Ctrl><f>

Windows logo key and <Pause>

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

Opens the System Properties dialog box.

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see the Microsoft

Windows

Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and

Support Center" on page 13.

Touch Pad

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

1 touch pad 2 scroll zone 3 touch pad buttons

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

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

• 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.

Using the Keyboard and Mouse 33

• 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.

• The touch pad has scrolling capability in the scroll zone on the right side of the touch pad. Scrolling is enabled by default. To disable this feature, modify the mouse properties through the Control Panel.

NOTE: The scroll zones may not work with all application programs. For the scroll zones to function properly, the

application program must be able to use the touch-pad scroll feature.

Customizing the Touch Pad and Mouse

You can use the Mouse Properties window to adjust settings for both the mouse and touch pad.

Open the Control Panel, click

In the

Mouse Properties

touch pad settings.

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Printers and Other Hardware

window, clicking the adjustment settings for the mouse will also adjust the

, and then click

Mouse

Keyboard Battery

The wireless keyboard is powered by a rechargeable lithium ion battery. The keyboard battery will recharge when the keyboard is affixed to the computer base and the base is running on AC power. The keyboard battery does not charge when it is detached from the computer base, even if the computer is running on AC power.

The keyboard battery indicator light on the keyboard will glow blue when the keyboard is attached to the computer base and drawing power from the computer only when the computer is connected to AC power. When the keyboard is detached from the computer base, the indicator does not light unless the rechargeable keyboard battery has less than 15% charge remaining. In this case, the indicator will light orange to alert you to the low battery, and you should attach the keyboard to the base to allow the keyboard battery to recharge. If the keyboard battery fails, the keyboard power indicator will flash orange.

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter

If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter window. The Battery Status tab displays the charge status for the battery in your keyboard, as well as the primary

computer battery.

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

34 Using the Keyboard and Mouse

Replacing the Keyboard Battery

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

Information Guide.

To remove the keyboard battery:

Turn the keyboard over.

Remove the captive screw at the top of the keyboard battery.

Slide the battery forward and out of the keyboard.

1 keyboard 2 captive screw 3 keyboard battery

To replace the keyboard battery, follow the removal instructions in reverse.

Using the Keyboard and Mouse 35

36 Using the Keyboard and Mouse

Using Multimedia

Playing Media

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

not using the drive. Do not block the drive from opening fully.

NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing media.

NOTICE: The optical drive cannot read nonstandard-sized or -shaped discs, such as the smaller 80 mm discs.

If you insert a nonstandard disc, it may damage the drive.

To play media:

Press the eject button on the media button panel in front of the optical drive. The drive will

rise, exposing the slot.

Holding the disc by its outside edges, carefully insert the disc into the slot with the label side facing up.

Carefully push the disc into the drive until the drive takes up the disc. The drive will retract itself.

Using Multimedia 37

To remove the disc from the drive:

Press the eject button on the media button panel in front of the optical drive. The drive will rise and eject the disc.

Remove the disc.

NOTICE: Do not manually push the drive down.

Push the eject button to retract the drive. If you wait 30 seconds, the drive will retract itself.

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

The media player includes the following basic buttons to control media playback:

38 Using Multimedia

Press to open or close the optical drive. If media is present in the closed drive, pressing this button will open the drive and eject the media.

Press once to go back to the start of the current playing track/chapter. Press multiple times to skip back to previous track/chapters. Press and hold to rewind within the current track/chapter.

Press to stop media playback.

Press to either play or pause the media.

Press once to skip forward one track/chapter. Press multiple times to skip forward multiple tracks/chapters. Press and hold to fast-forward within the current track/chapter.

Press to turn off the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers.

Press to decrease the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers.

Press to increase the volume of audio output from internal or external speakers.

Adjusting the Volume

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

In addition to using the media control buttons to adjust the volume, you can also adjust the volume in the following way:

Click

Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment→ Volume Control

Click and drag the bar in the

Volume Control

column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease

the volume.

For additional volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.

The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either click the

icon in the taskbar and select or deselect Disable On Screen Volume Meter, or press the volume

control buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.

1 volume icon 2 Volume Meter 3 mute icon

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

Using Multimedia 39

Adjusting the Picture

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

Click

Start→

Under

In the drop-down menu under

Control Panel→ Display→ Settings

Screen resolution

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

Color quality

, click

Medium (16 bit)→ OK

Copying CD, DVD, and BD Media

This section applies only to computers that have a DVD+/-RW drive or a BD-RE drive.

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

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

The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD, DVD, or BD using Roxio Creator. You can also use Roxio Creator 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, and then press <F1>.

The DVD drives and BD drives installed in Dell computers do not support HD-DVD media. For a list of supported media formats, see "Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media" on page 41.

How to Copy a CD, DVD, or BD

NOTE: BD media can only be copied to other BD media.

NOTE: Copying a BD-R to BD-RE will not produce an exact copy.

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

Click

Start

Click the

To copy the CD, DVD, or BD:

•

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

40 Using Multimedia

Copy

If you have one optical drive

correct, and then click the and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

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

If you have two optical drives

click the blank disc.

Copy Disc

→ All Programs→ Roxio Creator DE→ Projects→

tab, and then click

button to continue. The computer copies the data from the source disc to the

Copy Disc

, insert the source disc into the drive, ensure that the settings are

Copy Disc

, select the drive into which you have inserted your source disc and

button to continue. The computer reads your source disc

Copy

Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media

DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media. BD-writable drives can write to CD, DVD and BD recording media.

Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use a blank CD-RW if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.

Blank DVD+/-R or BD-R media can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R or BD-R, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is finalized or closed during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use a blank DVD+/-RW or BD-RE if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.

CD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +R W Yes Ye s Ye s

DV D -R W Yes Yes Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Yes No No

DVD-RAM No No No

BD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

Using Multimedia 41

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

DV D +R W Yes Ye s Ye s

DV D -R W Yes Yes Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-RAM No No No

BD-R Yes Yes No

BD-RE Yes Yes Yes

Helpful Tips

• Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start

Roxio Creator

• 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 the blank space to finalize the recording.

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

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

• 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.

• You cannot create audio DVDs with

• 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.

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

• See the Roxio website at

and open a Creator project.

Roxio Creator

www.sonic.com

for additional information.

Using Dell Media Experience and Dell MediaDirect

NOTE: Changing or disabling the Dell QuickSet default settings can limit Dell MediaDirect™ functionality. For more

information about Dell QuickSet, see "Dell QuickSet" on page 135.

Press the Dell MediaDirect button, located next to the power button, to launch either Windows Media Center Manager or Dell MediaDirect.

42 Using Multimedia

If the computer is turned on or in standby mode

If you press the Dell MediaDirect button while the computer is turned on or in standby mode, either Windows XP Media Center Manager or Dell Media Experience™ launches, depending on your system setup. If both applications are present, Windows XP Media Center Manager launches.

NOTE: If both Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition and Dell Media Experience are installed on your

→

computer, you must launch Dell Media Experience. Click Start on the desktop.

All Programs or click the Media Experience icon

If the computer is turned off or in hibernate mode

When your computer is turned off or in hibernate mode, you can press the Dell MediaDirect button to start the computer and automatically launch the Dell MediaDirect application.

NOTE: You cannot reinstall the Dell Media Experience or Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the

hard drive. You need the installation software to reinstall the media applications. Contact Dell for assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

1 Dell MediaDirect button

Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience Help

The Dell media application on your computer provides help information. When you launch the media application, click on the desktop icon for additional help.

Using Multimedia 43

Using Your Computer With a TV or Audio Device

Use the adapters that came with your Dell computer to connect various electronic devices to your computer:

• Composite video adapter

• Component video adapter

• Audio/IR Blaster adapter

Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with a standard S-video cable, a composite video adapter cable, or a component video adapter cable, enables you to connect the computer to a TV. You want to use the best input that your display or TV will support. The best options are DVI and component. There are arguments for either one, depending on the exact display or TV type. If neither one of these connectors is supported, then S-Video or composite are the alternate options.

The following section discusses the various adapters you received and possible configurations, depending on the device you want to connect.

Connecting a Composite Video Adapter

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

Use the composite video adapter to connect:

• Standard definition TV

•VCR

•DVR

44 Using Multimedia

Connecting a Component Video Adapter

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

Use the component video adapter to connect:

• High definition TV

• High definition DVR or DVD player

NOTE: If your TV has a DVI-I connector, use the DVI-I connector instead of the component adapter.

Connecting Audio/IR Blaster Adapter

1 audio/IR blaster adapter 2 audio connector

Using Multimedia 45

The audio/IR blaster adapter has the following ports:

1234567

3 S/PDIF digital S/PDIF port

4 side L/R output connector gray

5 center/sub output connector orange

6 rear L/R output connector black

7 front L/R output connector lime green

IR blaster port black

The IR blaster output ports are used by Windows Media Center to remotely control these external consumer electronics devices:

• Satellite box

• Cable box

•VCR

The Digital S/PDIF output (TOSLINK optical connection) port is used to connect:

• Home theatre receivers

• Minidisk players

• High-end digital decoding 5.1 speakers

46 Using Multimedia

The multi-channel analog audio I/O ports are used to connect:

•7.1 speakers

• 5.1 speakers with line input

• Monaural/stereo microphones

• External audio sources

• MP3 players

• Tape decks

NOTE: Some video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio device may not be

included with your computer. Cables and TV/digital audio adapter cables are available for purchase from Dell.

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio in Cyberlink PowerDVD

NOTE: The Cyberlink S/PDIF setting is available only if Cyberlink PowerDVD is installed on your computer.

Click

Start

Click

Settings

Click

Audio Settings

Click

Speaker Environment

Click

Apply

→ All Programs→ PowerDVD DX

, and then click

once, and then click

Apply

again to return to the main menu screen.

SPDIF

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio in the Windows Audio Driver

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

Click the

Click

Click OK.

Options

Advanced

menu and then click

S/PDIF Interface

Advanced Controls

Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones

NOTE: The CL headphone feature is available only if Cyberlink PowerDVD is installed on your computer.

Click

Start

Click

Settings

Click

Audio Settings

Click

Speaker Environment

Click

Output Mode

→ All Programs→ PowerDVD DX

, and then click

and select the

CL Headphone

Headphones

option of your preference.

Using Multimedia 47

Click

Dynamic Range Compression

Click

Apply

once, and then click

and select the most suitable option.

Apply

again to return to the main menu screen.

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the computer before you enable the

display settings.

Click the

Double-click

Click

Click the tab for your video card.

NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see the Windows Help and Support Center.

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

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

Start

Display

Advanced

button, point to

and click the

Settings

, and then click

Control Panel

tab.

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

48 Using Multimedia

Using the Display

Opening the Display Panel

Slide the two display latch releases, one on each side of the back of the display panel, toward the front of the computer to release the four display latches.

Two latches are holding the display panel to the computer base and two latches are holding the display panel to the keyboard.

1 display latch release (2) 2 display latch (4)

Raise the display panel to open the computer. As you raise the display panel, the four latches will retract into the display panel.

NOTE: If the system battery is drained and there is no power source, the latches will not retract.

Closing the Display Panel

Before closing the display panel, ensure that the keyboard is firmly secured against the computer base.

Slowly lower the display panel toward the computer base. As you lower the display panel, the four display latches will emerge from the display panel to secure the display to the computer base and keyboard.

NOTE: If the system battery is drained and there is no power source, the latches will not automatically

emerge, but you can manually activate them by sliding the display latch release buttons forward.

Firmly close the lid so all four latches are engaged.

NOTICE: Ensure that all four latches are engaged securely before picking up the computer to move it or the

keyboard could fall and be damaged.

Using the Display 49

Adjusting the Display Panel

The display on your computer is adjustable, so you can find a viewing angle that is comfortable for you.

NOTICE: Do not position the display so that it blocks the DVD drive from opening completely.

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).

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.

50 Using the Display

Press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously. Highlight your display choice and the display is selected when you release the keys.

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image may appear blurry or text may be

hard to read. Before you change any of the display settings, make a note of the current settings for future reference.

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.

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

Start→

In 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 to pan up, down, left, and right.

Control Panel→

Display Properties

Display

window, click the

Color quality

and

Settings

Screen resolution

tab.

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.

Click

Start→

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.

Click the monitor 2 icon, click the

Control Panel→

Display Properties

Display

window, click the

Extend my Windows desktop...

Settings

tab.

check box, and then click

Using the Display 51

Apply

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

To disable dual independent display mode:

Click the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the

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

Screen Area

Settings

to the appropriate sizes for both displays and click

Apply the new color setting without restarting

Yes

to keep the settings.

Display Properties

tab in the

Display Properties

window.

Extend my Windows desktop...

Apply

and

option, and then click

Apply

Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays

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

Click

Start→

Click the

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

Control Panel→

Settings

tab→

Display

Advanced→

Identify

Using the Camera

Your computer has a camera integrated into the display panel. The camera allows you to take photos and videos and to communicate visually with other computer users. The tilt of the camera is manually adjustable. For more information, see "Specifications" on page 137.

52 Using the Display

Setting Up the Camera

To set up your camera, see the printed camera Setup Guide that shipped with your computer. For additional information on using your camera, see the camera Help file.

Accessing Help

To access the camera Help file:

Click

You can also access Help from the Logitech Video icon in the system tray.

Click the icon and select Help from the menu.

Start→

Then click

All Programs→

QuickCapture→

Logitech→

Help

Logitech QuickCam

Taking a Picture or Recording a Video

To take a picture:

Click the Logitech Video icon in the system tray.

Select

QuickCapture

The yourself on the camera through the

To take a picture, click

Your picture or video will be saved by default in the My Pictures folder of My Documents unless you change the settings.

For more information, see the Logitech Video Help. See "Accessing Help" on page 53.

from the menu.

window displays and the blue LED on the camera turns on. You are able to view

TakeaPicture

QuickCapture

. To record a video, click

window.

RecordaVideo

Using the Display 53

54 Using the Display

Using a Battery

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.

NOTE: The Service Tag label is located inside the battery compartment of your computer.

Inserting the Battery

Ensure the keyboard is securely attached and the display is closed and latched before turning the computer over. See "Closing the Display Panel" on page 49. Then place the computer upside down on a clean flat surface.

Push the latch release button (#1) on the battery to open the battery access door.

Using a Battery 55

Insert the battery straight down into the battery compartment with the battery access door in the open position.

Slide the battery in the direction of the #1 arrow until it snaps into place.

56 Using a Battery

Close the battery access door by pushing it down with your finger.

Removing the Battery

Ensure that the computer is turned off.

Slide the battery latch release on the bottom of the computer in the direction of the #1 arrow. The battery access door will pop up.

1 battery access door

Using a Battery 57

Using your thumbs, slide the battery in the direction of the #2 arrow by inserting one thumb into the recess next to the battery access door and the other thumb into the indention surrounding the #2 arrow.

Lift the battery straight up and out of the computer.

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.

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, go to Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance→ Power Options→ Power Meter.

58 Using a Battery

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.

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, DVD, or BD.

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:

• Using optical drives

• Using wireless communications devices, ExpressCards, 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 63 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. See "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 59 and "Inserting the Battery" on page 55. You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 63.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Checking the Battery Charge

The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter window and icon, the battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge. The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter also provides information on the keyboard battery charge status.

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter

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

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

Using a Battery 59

Microsoft Windows Power Meter

The Microsoft Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar.

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

Charge Gauge

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

• Battery charge (check by pressing and

• Battery health (check by pressing and

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

Check the Battery Charge

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

Check the Battery Health

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

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

To check the battery health using the charge gauge, press and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See "Battery" on page 140 for more information about the battery operating time.

releasing

holding

the status button)

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. 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. 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 63 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.

60 Using a Battery

Charging the Battery

NOTE: When the computer is turned off, the AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery to 80 percent in

about 90 minutes. Full battery charge time will be longer. 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.

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.

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

The battery is too hot to start charging if the light flashes alternately blue 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 more information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 102.

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 61.

• Use the Power Management Wizard or the 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 options to

NOTE: See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 63 for information on conserving battery power.

Storing a Battery

Remove the computer 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 before you use it. See "Charging the Battery" on page 61.

Power Management Modes

The power indicator LED indicates the power state of the computer. The Dell badge on the back of the display panel indicates the power state of the computer when the computer is used in closed-lid operation.

Using a Battery 61

Power State Power LED

Normal operating state Blue solid light

Low power state Blue light blinking slowly

Standby mode Blue light blinking slowly

Hibernate mode Off

Mechanically off (no AC power) Off

Standby Mode

Standby mode 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 mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby mode.

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

To enter standby mode:

• Click the

Start

button, click

Turn off computer

, and then click

Stand by

• Depending on how you set the power management options in the

Power Options Properties

window

or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, use one of the following methods:

– Press the power button.

– Close the display.

– Press <Fn><Esc>.

To exit standby mode, press the power button or open the display, depending on how you set the power management options. You can only make the computer exit standby mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad if this option has been enabled. First you must enable USB Wake Support under Power Management in System Setup. Then right click the Bluetooth icon in the system tray, click Options, select the Other tab, and select HID Profile Wakeup Setting to select the devices to wake from standby. To wake from standby, the computer must also be connected to AC power. For more information, see "System Setup Screens" on page 110.

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 while your computer is in hibernate mode.

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

62 Using a Battery

To manually enter hibernate mode:

•Click the

Start

button, click

Turn off computer

, and then click

Hibernate

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

– Press the power button.

– Close the display.

– Press <Fn><F1>.

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

reinsert the card (see "Removing a Card" on page 83), or simply restart (reboot) your computer.

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

Power Options Properties

window

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 icon in the taskbar and click

• To access the

Performance and Maintenance Power Options Properties

area where you need information.

Power Options Properties

, and then click

window, click the question mark icon on the title bar and then click on the

window, click the

Power Options

Start

button, point to

. For information on any field in the

Help

Control Panel→

Using a Battery 63

64 Using a Battery

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options:

• Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections.

• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same line simultaneously.

• Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line.

If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

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

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

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

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP:

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

Click the

The

Start

button and click

New Connection Wizard

Internet Explorer

appears.

Click

Connect to the Internet

Setting Up Your Computer 65

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

• If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click

providers (ISPs)

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

click

Set up my connection manually

• If you have a setup disc, click

Click

If you selected on the screen to complete the setup.

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

Click the appropriate option under

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

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 93. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

Use the CD I got from an ISP

Set up my connection manually

How do you want to connect to the Internet?

, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions

Choose from a list of Internet service

, and then click

Transferring Information to a New Computer

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides a 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 connection, or you can store it on removable media, such as a writable CD, for transfer to the new computer.

NOTE: For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, go to

support.microsoft.com and search for Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #293118, titled How to Use Files and Settings Transfer Wizard 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 Operating System installation media for this process or you can create a wizard disk with the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard utility.

Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System Installation Media

NOTE: Operating System installation media is optional and may not be included with your computer.

66 Setting Up Your Computer

Prepare the New Computer for the File Transfer

Start the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard by clicking

→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Tools

When the

On the

On the and click

When the click

Copy Data From the Old Computer

On the old computer, insert your Windows XP

On the

Under

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

Now go to your old computer

at this time.

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?

screen, click

screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do

Transfer files and settings

welcome screen, click

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Finish

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer

and click

I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD

Operating System

screen, click

installation media.

Perform additional tasks

Old Computer

and click

Completing the Collection Phase

Accessories→

screen appears.

System

not

Transfer Data to the New Computer

On the

On the 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 your

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.

Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System Installation Media

To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the optional Operating System installation media, you must create a wizard disk that lets you create a backup of your data files. Create the wizard disk on removable media so that you can move it from your new computer to your old computer.

Setting Up Your Computer 67

Create a Wizard Disk

Start the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard by clicking

→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Tools

When the

On the

drive:

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

When the disk creation completes and the

Go to the old computer.

Copy Data From the Old Computer

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click the

In the media) and click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

and click

Next.

Start

Open

button and click

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?

After the information has been copied, the

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer

screen, click

Now go to your old computer

welcome screen, click

Old Computer

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Completing the Collection Phase

Start→

All Programs→

and click

Accessories→

System

I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following

message appears,

fastwiz

(on the appropriate removable

and click

do not

click

screen appears.

Click

Finish

Transfer Data to the New Computer

On the

On the 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 your

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 System CD?).

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

and restart the new computer.

™ Computer Using the Microsoft Windows XP Operating

Finished

screen appears.

68 Setting Up Your Computer

Setting Up a Printer

NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer.

See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to:

• Obtain and install updated drivers.

• Connect the printer to the computer.

• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.

For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the printer manufacturer.

Printer Cable

Your printer connects to your computer with a USB cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer and computer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the box in which your computer was shipped.

Connecting a USB Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.

Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.

Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.

Setting Up Your Computer 69

1 USB connector on

computer

Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the appears, click

Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.

Cancel

2 USB printer cable 3 connector on printer

Add New Hardware Wizard

window

Power Protection Devices

Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures:

• Surge protectors

• Line conditioners

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Surge Protectors

Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help prevent damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or after power interruptions. Some surge protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain types of damage. Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge protector. A device with a higher joule rating offers more protection. Compare joule ratings to determine the relative effectiveness of different devices.

70 Setting Up Your Computer

NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or power interruptions caused by

nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in your area, disconnect the telephone line from the telephone wall jack and disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet.

Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem protection. See the surge protector documentation for modem connection instructions.

NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the network cable from the

network wall jack during electrical storms.

Line Conditioners

NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.

Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level.

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage.

NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other devices,

such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection.

A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices contain a battery that provides temporary power to connected devices when AC power is interrupted. The battery charges while AC power is available. See the UPS manufacturer documentation for information on battery operating time and to ensure that the device is approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Setting Up Your Computer 71

72 Setting Up Your Computer

Using Networks (LAN or Wireless)

Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem

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

To connect a network cable:

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.

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

Network Setup Wizard

The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office.

Click the

Network Setup Wizard

On the welcome screen, click

Click

Start

button, point to

Checklist for creating a network

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

, and then click

Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) 73

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 on the screen.

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

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

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:

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

• A broadband modem that is connected and working

• A wireless router or access point

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

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

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

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

• The

• The order confirmation for your computer

Start

button and the

Connect To

option

Start Button and Connect To Option

Click the

Point to

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

74 Using Networks (LAN or Wireless)

Start

button.

Connect To

, and then click

Show all connections

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

Right-click

Click card’s 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 by clicking the

Start button, pointing to Settings, and then pointing to Network Connections. If Wireless Network Connection does

not appear, you may not have a wireless network card.

The Order Confirmation for Your Computer

Wireless Network Connection.

Properties

. The

Wireless Network Connection Properties

General

window appears. The wireless network

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

Connecting 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 "Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem" on page 73).

Install any software required for your wireless router. Your wireless router may have been shipped with installation media. Installation media usually contains 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 menu.

Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.

Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem.

Start

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

network setup.

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

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.

Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) 75

Tu r n o n

only

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

stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to step 12.

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

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 76.

Connecting to a WLAN

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

Network (WLAN)" on page 74.

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

or cellular products.

This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network via wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary. See "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 74 for more information about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.

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

wireless technology

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 74.

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

76 Using Networks (LAN or Wireless)

Microsoft Windows

XP operating system

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

Click the

Double-click

Right-click the

Start

button, point to

Settings

Network Connections

Wireless Network Connection

, and then click

Control Panel

icon, and then click

View Available Wireless Networks

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

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

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

To access the Help and Support Center:

Click the

Under

Start

button and click

Pick a Help topic

Device Guides

, select the documentation for your wireless network card.

Help and Support

, click

Dell User and System Guides

Completing the Connection to the WLAN

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

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

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

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

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 one minute to connect to the network.

Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card

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

establishing a WLAN (see "What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection" on page 74), and then verify that your wireless network card is enabled by pressing <Fn><F2>.

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

Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) 77

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. Right-click the Dell QuickSet icon in your taskbar to select or deselect Wireless Activity Indicator Off to turn the wireless activity indicator on or off.

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

For more information about the wireless activity indicator, see the Dell QuickSet Help file. For information about QuickSet and how to access the Dell QuickSet Help file, see "Dell QuickSet" on page 135.

Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

Much like a WLAN, a Mobile Broadband network (also known as a WWAN) is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other through wireless technology. However, a Mobile Broadband network uses cellular technology and therefore provides Internet access in the same varied locations from which cellular telephone service is available. Your computer can maintain the Mobile Broadband network connection regardless of its physical location, as long as the computer remains in the service area of your cellular service provider.

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

NOTE: You can use a Mobile Broadband ExpressCard to establish a Mobile Broadband network connection.

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

• A Mobile Broadband ExpressCard. For instructions on using ExpressCards, see "Supported Cards" on page 81.

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

If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide for instructions. The user’s guide is available through the Windows Help and Support Center (or on the CD that accompanied your card if you purchased it separately from your computer). To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.

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

78 Using Networks (LAN or Wireless)

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

Click the

Under

Start

button and click

Pick a task

Tools

, click

Help and Support

, click

Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems

My Computer Information

and then click

Find information about the hardware

installed on this computer.

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

NOTE: The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems.

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mobile Broadband ExpressCards. They do not apply to internal cards with

Bluetooth 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. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13. The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at 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

Click

Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon

Connect

in the Windows taskbar to run the utility.

NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button.

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

Click the

Click

Start

button, point to

Dell Wireless Broadband

All Programs→

Dell Wireless.

and follow the instructions on the screen.

Windows Firewall

The Windows Firewall provides basic protection from unauthorized access to the computer while the computer is connected to the Internet. The firewall is automatically enabled when you run the Network Setup Wizard. When the firewall is enabled for a network connection, the firewall icon appears with a red background in the Network Connections section of the Control Panel.

Note that enabling the Windows Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking software.

For more information, see the Help and Support Center for the Microsoft system. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.

Using Networks (LAN or Wireless) 79

Windows XP operating

80 Using Networks (LAN or Wireless)

Using Cards

Supported Cards

Your computer has two slots for memory storage media that provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card, and one slot for an ExpressCard for WWAN support. Cards are available for purchase from Dell.

NOTE: Your computer does not support PC cards.

For more information, see "Specifications" on page 137.

Media Memory Card Reader

The media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory cards:

• Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

• Memory Stick (MS)

• Memory Stick Pro

• xD-Picture Card

With a commonly available adapter, the memory card reader also reads the following digital media memory cards:

• MiniSD

•RSMCC

• Memory Stick Duo

• Memory Stick Pro Duo

Compact Flash Card Reader

The compact flash card reader reads the following digital media memory cards:

• Compact Flash Type I

• Compact Flash Type II

• Microdrive

Using Cards 81

ExpressCard Reader

NOTE: PCMCIA cards will not work in the ExpressCard reader.

The ExpressCard slot has one connector that supports both 34-mm and 54-mm ExpressCards.

For more information on WWAN support with the ExpressCard, see "Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)" on page 78.

Extended Cards

An extended card is longer than a standard card and extends outside the computer. Follow these precautions when using extended cards:

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

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

Installing a Media Memory Card or ExpressCard

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

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

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

Information Guide.

1 23

1 1394 connector 2 media memory card slot 3 compact flash card slot

4 ExpressCard slot

82 Using Cards

To insert a 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.

Removing a Card

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.

Using Cards 83

84 Using Cards

Securing Your Computer

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

on page 117.

Security Cable Lock

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

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

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

computer.

Passwords

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.

Securing Your Computer 85

• 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 or data encryption programs.

Use the User Accounts option on the Control Panel in Microsoft® Windows® to create user accounts or 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.

Computer Tracking Software

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

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

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. Your Service Tag is in the battery compartment of your computer (see "Removing the Battery" on page 57) along with the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. If possible, obtain the name of the investigating officer.

Ask that a case number be assigned and write down the number,

NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area. If you do not

know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.

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

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

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

86 Securing Your Computer

Troubleshooting

Dell Technical Update Service

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

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

Dell Diagnostics

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

Product Information Guide.

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 98 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

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

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.

You can start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities disc.

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 150.

Shut down the computer.

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:

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

NOTE: The keyboard must be awake to recognize the keystroke. Ensure the keyboard is awake by

touching the touchpad.

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.

Troubleshooting 87

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 disc.

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

• 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 <Esc>; 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. See "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you receive the 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.

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.

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.

The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in system setup.

When the boot device list appears, highlight

Select the

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

Select the version appropriate for your computer.

When the Dell Diagnostics

Drivers and Utilities

NOTE: The keyboard must be awake to recognize the keystroke. Ensure the keyboard is awake by touching

the touchpad.

Boot from CD-ROM

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

disc.

CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive

and press <Enter>.

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

from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select

Main Menu

appears, select the test you want to run.

88 Troubleshooting

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the 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. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly.

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

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

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.

If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

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

the following table for more information.

Main Menu

Symptom Tree

screen appears, click the button for the option

option, click the applicable tab described in

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and

the problem description.

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for

running the test.

Troubleshooting 89

Tab Function

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

Drivers and Utilities

disc, remove the disc.

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

Main Menu

screen.

Main Menu

screen. To exit the Dell

Dell Support Utility

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

Accessing the Dell Support Utility

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

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

Click the

Click

Ensure that the

NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to support.dell.com and download the

software.

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 right-click the icon.

90 Troubleshooting

Start

button and point to

Dell Support

Show icon on the taskbar

and point to

Programs

Dell Support Settings

option is checked.

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

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

Information Guide.

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks. See "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 149.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the DVD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.

EST THE DRIVE — Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original disc is defective.

LEAN THE DISC — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 175.

ANNOT READ OR PLAY DISC — If the disc is dirty, clean it with a non-abrasive cloth from the disc center hole to

the outside. If the disc is scratched and warped, do not insert it into the drive. If the disc is inserted upside down, remove and reinsert in the proper direction.

HECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

CHECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 122.

UN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS —

See

"Dell Diagnostics" on page 87

DVD drive problems

NOTE: High-speed DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the

drive or the media.

Troubleshooting 91

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

ISK WILL NOT EJECT — Press the eject button again. If problem continues, restart the system.

Problems writing to an optical drive

CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — The optical 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 drive.

URN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD, DVD, OR BD — See "Standby Mode" on

page 62 or search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center for information on power management modes.

HANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE — See the help files for your CD, DVD, or BD creation software.

NSURE THAT THE DISC IS LOADED IN THE DRIVE WITH THE LABEL FACING UP — See "Playing Media" on page 37

for proper insertion instructions.

ERIFY THE TYPE OF DISC BEING USED — CD-R, DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+R DL, and BD-R discs cannot be

rewritten.

NSURE THAT THERE IS ENOUGH FREE SPACE ON THE WRITABLE DISC — Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW

to its maximum capacity. The drive needs 1–2 MB of the blank space to finalize the recording.

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 — A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.

UN CHECK DISK —

Click the

Right-click

Click

Click the

Under

Click

Start

button and click

Local Disk C:

Properties

To ol s

tab.

Error-checking

, click

My Computer

Check Now

Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors

Start

92 Troubleshooting

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

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.

HECK THE MICROSOFT

attachments:

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —

• Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the 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 HELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Click the Start button, point to All Programs and then click

Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem

Helper is not available on all computers.)

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

Click the

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click

Start

Phone and Modem Options

Modems

Properties

communicating with Windows.

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

OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS — If you cannot open your e-mail

Tools

, click

Options

, and then click

Security

to remove the checkmark.

button and click

Control Panel

tab.

, click the

Diagnostics

tab, and then click

Query Modem

to verify that the modem is

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet

provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service provider.

Troubleshooting 93

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 as you complete these checks. See "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 149.

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 — The touch pad or external mouse may be faulty. For an external mouse, see

"Using the Keyboard and Mouse" on page 27. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program. If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces in the

proper place, and used the correct pathname.

CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE — The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed. Contact

Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer. See

"Dell Support Utility" on page 90.

DATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot read the data. See "Dell Support Utility" on page 90.

DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly seated.

Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Memory" on page 129.

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

Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87.

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 "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

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" on page 129.

94 Troubleshooting

GENERAL FAILURE — The operating system is unable to carry out the command. The message is usually

followed by specific information—for example, Printer out of paper. Take the appropriate action.

HARD-DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION ERROR — The computer cannot identify the drive type. Run the Hard-

Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87.

HARD-DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0— The hard drive does not respond to commands from the

computer. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87.

HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer. Run the

Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87.

HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — The hard drive may be defective. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the

Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87.

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to nonbootable media. Insert bootable

media.

INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION- PLEASE RUN SYS TE M 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 109.

KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE — Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell

Diagnostics" on page 87.

KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE — 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 87.

KEYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE — Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell

Diagnostics" on page 87.

KEYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE — 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 87.

LICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN MEDIADIRECT — Dell MediaDirect™ cannot verify the Digital Rights Management (DRM) restrictions on the file, so the file cannot be played. See "Dell MediaDirect problems" on page 99.

EMORY 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" on page 129.

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" on page 129) and, if necessary, replace them.

Troubleshooting 95

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" on page 129) and, if necessary, replace them.

MEMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may

be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 129) and, if necessary, replace them.

MEMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 129) and, if necessary, replace them.

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

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

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

"Contacting Dell" on page 150.

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 87.

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN — You have too many

programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM — The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell. See "Contacting

Dell" on page 150.

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 — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may have a

Change/Remove

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

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

SHUTDOWN FAILURE — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in

the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87.

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 "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

96 Troubleshooting

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

require replacing. See "Coin-Cell Battery" on page 134.

TIME- OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYST E M SETUP PROGRAM — The time or date stored in the system

setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date and Time options. See "System Setup Program" on page 109.

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 87.

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 87.

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

WARNING: BATTERY IS CRITICALLY LOW — The battery is running out of charge. Replace the battery, or

connect the computer to an electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate hibernate mode or shut down the computer.

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

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 —

Click the

Click

Click the

If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.

Start

System

Hardware

button and click

to open the

System Properties

tab, then click

Control Panel

window.

Device Manager

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 IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS PROPERLY INSERTED INTO THE CONNECTOR

see "Contacting Dell" on page 150)

or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer.

Keyboard Problems

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

Information Guide.

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 149) as you perform the various checks.

NOTE: Use the wireless keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you

attach an external keyboard, the wireless keyboard remains fully functional.

Troubleshooting 97

Keyboard problems

COMPUTER BASE DOES NOT RECOGNIZE WIRELESS KEYBOARD — See "Pairing the Keyboard" on page 27.

UN THE KEYBOARD DIAGNOSTICS TESTS — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87. If the tests indicate a defective keyboard, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

Unexpected characters

DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD — Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

Lockups and Software Problems

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.

A program stops responding

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on other media, such as a CD.

ND THE PROGRAM —

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

Click

Applications

Click the program that is no longer responding.

Click

End Task

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

98 Troubleshooting

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD — The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program

so it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.

Click the

Wizard

In the welcome screen, click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories

, and then click

Program Compatibility

A solid blue screen appears

TURN 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.

Dell MediaDirect problems

CHECK THE DELL MEDIADIRECT HELP FILE FOR INFORMATION — Click the question mark icon at the bottom

of the Dell MediaDirect screen to access Help.

TO PLAY MOVIES WITH DELL MEDIAD IRECT, YOU MUST HAVE A DVD DRIVE AND THE DELL DVD PLAYER — If

you purchased a DVD drive with your computer, this software should already be installed.

VIDEO QUALITY PROBLEMS — Turn off the Use Hardware Acceleration option. This feature takes

advantage of the special processing in some graphics cards to reduce processor requirements when playing DVDs and certain types of video files.

CANNOT PLAY SOME MEDIA FILES — Because Dell MediaDirect provides access to media files outside the

Windows XP operating system environment, access to licensed content is restricted. Licensed content is digital content that has Digital Rights Management (DRM) applied to it. The Dell MediaDirect environment cannot verify the DRM restrictions, so the licensed files cannot be played. Licensed music and video files have a lock icon next to them. You can access licensed files in the Windows XP operating system environment.

ADJUSTING THE COLOR SETTINGS FOR MOVIES THAT CONTAIN SCENES THAT ARE TOO DARK OR TOO BRIGHT —

Click EagleVision to use a video enhancement technology that detects video content and dynamically adjusts the brightness/contrast/saturation ratios.

NOTICE: You cannot reinstall the Dell MediaDirect feature if you reformat the hard drive. Contact Dell for

assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 150.

Troubleshooting 99

Memory Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 149) 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.

F YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —

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

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

• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory. See "Memory" on page 129.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87.

100 Troubleshooting

See "Memory" on page 129.

Dell M2010 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Finding Information

About Your Computer

Front View

Left View

Right View

Back View

Bottom View

Using the Keyboard and Mouse

Pairing the Keyboard

Keyboard Pairing Failed

Pairing the Mouse

Mouse Pairing With the Wizard

Mouse Pairing Failed

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

System Functions

Battery

Display Functions

Wireless Networking Technology Function

Display Switch

Power Management

Microsoft Windows Logo Key Functions

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad and Mouse

Keyboard Battery

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter

Replacing the Keyboard Battery

Using Multimedia

Playing Media

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CD, DVD, and BD Media

How to Copy a CD, DVD, or BD

Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media

Helpful Tips

Using Dell Media Experience and Dell MediaDirect

If the computer is turned on or in standby mode

If the computer is turned off or in hibernate mode

Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience Help

Using Your Computer With a TV or Audio Device

Connecting a Composite Video Adapter

Connecting a Component Video Adapter

Connecting Audio/IR Blaster Adapter

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio in Cyberlink PowerDVD

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio in the Windows Audio Driver

Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

Using the Display

Opening the Display Panel

Closing the Display Panel

Adjusting the Display Panel

Adjusting Brightness

Switching the Video Image

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Dual Independent Display Mode

Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays

Using the Camera

Setting Up the Camera

Accessing Help

Taking a Picture or Recording a Video

Using a Battery

Replacing the Battery

Inserting the Battery

Removing the Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft Windows Power Meter

Charge Gauge

Low-Battery Warning

Charging the Battery

Conserving Battery Power

Storing a Battery

Power Management Modes

Standby Mode