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, XPS, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex,
Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault, PowerApp, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.;
Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows,
Windows Server, MS-DOS and Windows Vista are either trademarks or registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
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.
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
• Desktop System Software (DSS)
Drivers and Utilities Media
Documentation and drivers are already
installed on your computer. You can use
the media to reinstall drivers (see
"Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on
page 76), to run the Dell Diagnostics (see
"Dell Diagnostics" on page 65).
Readme files may be included on your
media to provide last-minute updates
about technical changes to your computer
or advanced technical-reference material
for technicians or experienced users.
NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates
can be found at support.dell.com.
Finding Information9
What Are You Looking For?Find It Here
• Warranty information
• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
Dell™ Product Information Guide
• How to set up my computer
Setup Diagram
NOTE: The appearance of your setup
diagram may vary.
10Finding Information
What Are You Looking For?Find It Here
• Service Tag and Express Service Code
• Microsoft Windows License Label
Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows®
License
These labels are located on your
computer.
• Use the Service Tag to identify your
computer when you use
support.dell.com
• Enter the Express Service Code to direct
your call when contacting support.
NOTE: As an increased security measure,
the newly designed Microsoft Windows
license label incorporates a missing portion
or "hole" to discourage removal of the label.
or contact support.
Finding Information11
What Are You Looking For?Find It Here
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and
tips, articles from technicians, and
online courses, frequently asked
questions
• Community — Online discussion with
other Dell customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for
components, such as memory, the hard
drive, and the operating system
• Customer Care — Contact information,
service call and order status, warranty,
and repair information
• Service and support — Service call
status and support history, service
contract, online discussions with
technical support
• Dell Technical Update Service —
Proactive e-mail notification of software
and hardware updates for your computer
• Reference — Computer documentation,
details on my computer configuration,
product specifications, and white papers
• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches,
and software updates
• Desktop System Software (DSS)— If
you reinstall the operating system for
your computer, you should also reinstall
the DSS utility. DSS provides critical
updates for your operating system and
support for processors, optical drives,
USB devices, and so on. DSS is
necessary for correct operation of your
Dell computer. The software
automatically detects your computer
and operating system and installs the
updates appropriate for your
configuration.
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region or business
segment to view the appropriate support
site.
To download Desktop System Software:
1
Go to
support.dell.com
region or business segment, and enter
your Service Tag.
2
Select
Go
.
3
Click your operating system and search
for the keyword
Software
NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface
may vary depending on your selections.
, select your
Drivers & Downloads
Desktop System
.
and click
12Finding Information
What Are You Looking For?Find It Here
• How to use your Windows™ operating
system
• How to work with programs and files
• How to personalize my desktop
Windows Help and Support
1
To access Windows Help and Support:
• In Windows Vista™, click the
Windows Vista Start button
Help and Support
click
2
Type a word or phrase that describes
your problem, and then click the arrow
icon.
3
Click the topic that describes your
problem.
4
Follow the instructions on the screen.
• How to reinstall my operating system
Operating System Media
The operating system is already installed
on your computer. To reinstall your
operating system, use the Operating System CD. See "Restoring Your
Operating System" on page 78.
.
and
After you reinstall your operating system,
use the Drivers and Utilities CD to
reinstall drivers for the devices that came
with your computer.
Your operating system product key label is
located on your computer.
NOTE: The color of your CD varies based
on the operating system you ordered.
Finding Information13
14Finding Information
About Your Computer
Front View of the Computer
CAUTION: Ensure that none of the computer air vents are blocked. Blocking them
would cause serious thermal problems.
1
2
3
4
8
7
6
About Your Computer15
5
1speakers (2)To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press
the appropriate media control buttons (see "Media
Control Buttons" on page 32 for more information).
2air ventsInternal fans create airflow through the vents to
prevent the computer from overheating. The computer
turns the fans on when the computer gets hot. Fan
noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with
the fans or the computer.
CAUTION: Ensure that none of the computer air
vents are blocked. Blocking them would cause
serious thermal problems.
3camera/ microphone
array
4media control buttonsControl CD, DVD, Blu-ray Disc™ (BD), and Media
5disc slotInsert CD, DVD, or Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) as supported
6disc indicatorThe disc indicator lights up when a disc is in the drive.
7display power buttonPress to turn the display on and off without changing
8computer standUse the stand to tilt the display to your preferred angle.
Built-in camera and microphone array for video
capture, conferencing, and chat. When the
camera/microphone array is in use, the blue back-light
lights up.
Player play. See "Media Control Buttons" on page 32
for more information.
by your disc drive. The disc-slot indicator lights up
when no disc is in the drive; see "Disc and Disc-Slot
Indicators" on page 33 for more information.
NOTICE: The optical drive does not support 8cm
media. Do not insert 8cm media into the optical
drive slot.
See "Disc and Disc-Slot Indicators" on page 33 for
more information.
the overall operating state of the computer.
It can be rotated from 5º towards you to 25º back. The
stand provides stability to the computer; it is not a
removable part.
16About Your Computer
CAUTION: The computer stand should remain
installed at all times to ensure maximum system
stability.
Back View of the Computer
19
1
2
3
4
5
6
18
15
12
119
10
About Your Computer17
7
813141617
1Media Card Reader Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital
photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card. The
Media Card Reader reads the following digital memory
cards:
• Secure Digital (SD) memory card
•SDIO card
• MultiMediaCard (MMC)
•Memory Stick
• Memory Stick PRO
•xD-Picture Card
• Hi Speed-SD
• Hi Density-SD
2mini IEEE 1394
connector
3USB 2.0
connectors (2)
4headphone/line-
out connector
5microphone/line-in
connector
6drive activity lightThe drive activity light is on when the computer reads data
7power button,
power light
Attach high-speed serial multimedia devices, such as digital
video cameras.
Use the side USB connectors for devices that you connect
occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB
devices (see "System Setup Options" on page 70 for more
information on booting to a USB device). It is
recommended that you use the back USB connectors for
devices that typically remain connected, such as printers
and keyboards.
Use the headphone/line-out connector to attach
headphones and most kinds of speakers.
Use the microphone/line-in connector to attach a personal
computer microphone for voice or musical input into a
sound or telephony program.
from or writes data to the hard drive. The light might also
be on when a device such as an optical drive is operating.
Press the power button to turn on the computer. The light
in the center of this button indicates power state. See
"Controls and Lights" on page 87 for more information.
18About Your Computer
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power
button to turn off the computer. Instead, perform an
operating system shutdown.
8computer sync
button
9network adapter
connector
To re-sync your optional wireless keyboard and mouse to
your computer, press the sync button on the rear of your
computer, then press the sync button on the device that
you wish to use. See "Re-Syncing Your Optional Wireless
Mouse or Keyboard with Your Computer" on page 44.
To attach your computer to a network or broadband device,
connect one end of a network cable to either a network port
or your network or broadband device. Connect the other
end of the network cable to the network adapter connector
on the back panel of your computer. A click indicates that
the network cable has been securely attached.
NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network
connector.
network activity light: Flashes a yellow light when the
computer is transmitting or receiving network data. A high
volume of network traffic may make this light appear to be
in a steady "on" state.
link integrity light:
Green — A good connection exists between the network
and the computer.
Off — The computer is not detecting a physical
connection to the network.
10 optional TV input-
device connector
11 TV-in connectorTV-in connector — only supported on systems with
12 2.0 audio out
connector
13 power connectorInsert the power cable.
14 USB 2.0
connectors (4)
10-pin connector to attach the optional TV-input device.
The device is only necessary if you will not be connecting
your TV via the optional TV-in connector.
TV input-device connectors: S-video, composite video, and
audio connectors, and IR blaster.
optional TV tuner card.
Connect speakers for 2.0 audio.
Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically
remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.
It is recommended that you use the side USB connectors
for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks
or cameras.
About Your Computer19
15 security cable slotLets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to
the computer.
NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure
that it works with the security cable slot on your
computer.
16 S/PDIF connectorUse the S/PDIF connector to transmit digital audio
without going through an analog audio conversion process.
17 IEEE 1394
connector
18 Service TagUse the Service Tag to identify your computer when you
19 cable routing flapsRoute power cord and other rear cables through these flaps
Attach high-speed serial multimedia devices, such as digital
video cameras.
access the Dell Support website or contact support.
to improve the appearance of your cables.
Power Cable Routing
1
1 power cable
20About Your Computer
Optional TV Input Device (For Use With Optional
TV Tuner)
1
2
3
4
5
1 composite video2 left audio output connector
3 right audio output connector4 S-video connector
5 IR blaster
About Your Computer21
22About Your Computer
Setting Up Your Computer
Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure
Installing your computer in an enclosure can restrict the airflow and impact
your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat. Follow the
guidelines below when installing your computer in an enclosure:
NOTICE: The operating temperature specifications indicated in this manual
reflects the maximum ambient operating temperature. The room ambient
temperature needs to be a consideration when installing your computer in an
enclosure. For example, if the ambient room temperature is at 25°C (77°F),
depending on your computer’s specifications, you only have 5° to 10°C (9° to 18°F)
temperature margin before you reach your computer’s maximum operating
temperature. For details about your computer’s specifications, see "Specifications"
on page 83.
•Leave a 10.2 cm (4 in) minimum clearance on all vented sides of the
computer to permit the airflow required for proper ventilation.
•If your enclosure has doors, they need to be of a type that allows at least
30 percent airflow through the enclosure (front and back).
•If your computer is installed in a corner on a desk or under a desk, leave at
least 5.1 cm (2 in) clearance from the back of the computer to the wall to
permit the airflow required for proper ventilation.
NOTICE: Do not install your computer in an enclosure that does not allow airflow.
Restricting the airflow impacts your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to
overheat.
Setting Up Your Computer23
Connecting to the Internet
NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.
To connect to the Internet, you need a network connection and an Internet
service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following
Internet connection options:
•DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your
existing telephone line or cellular telephone service. 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.
•Satellite modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access
through a satellite television system.
•Wireless LAN connections that provide Internet access using Bluetooth
wireless technology.
If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem connection, contact your ISP
or cellular telephone service for setup instructions.
Setting Up Your Internet Connection
To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut:
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.
3
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an
Internet connection with a different ISP, perform the steps in the following
section.
®
NOTE: If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail and
Internet Problems" on page 53. 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.
24Setting Up Your Computer
NOTE: Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, the Connect to
the Internet wizard can help you get one.
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click
3
Under
4
Network and Internet,
Connect to the Internet
The
Click
Broadband (PPPoE)
click
Connect to the Internet
window appears.
for a DSL, satellite modem, cable TV modem,
Control Panel
.
.
or Bluetooth wireless technology connection.
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose
or contact your ISP.
5
Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information
provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
Transferring Information to a New Computer
You can use your operating system "wizards" to help you transfer files and
other data from one computer to another—for example, from an old
computer to a new computer.
The Microsoft
Transfer application to move data from a source computer to a new computer.
You can transfer data, such as:
•E-mail messages
•Toolbar settings
•User accounts
•Internet bookmarks
You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or serial
connection, or you can store it on removable media, such as a writable CD,
for transfer to the new computer.
Windows Vista™ operating system provides the Windows Easy
Setting Up Your Computer25
NOTE: For more information about options available with Windows Easy Transfer,
see Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #928634, titled How to use Windows Easy
Transfer to migrate files and settings from one Windows-based computer to
another Windows Vista-based computer. This information may not be available in
certain countries.
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click
and settings
2
In the
3
Click
Follow the instructions provided on the screen by the Windows Easy Transfer
wizard.
→ Start Windows Easy Transfer.
User Account Control
Start a new transfer
dialog box, click
or
Continue a transfer in progress
Continue
Transfer files
.
.
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 computer’s shipping box.
26Setting Up Your Computer
Connecting a USB Printer
NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1
Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.
2
Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and
the printer. The connectors fit only one way.
1
2
3
1 USB connector on computer2 USB connector on printer
3 USB printer cable
3
Turn on the printer.
4
If your computer is running the Windows Vista™ operating system, click
the Windows Vista Start button , and click
Network→ Add a printer
start the Add Printer Wizard.
5
Install the printer driver if necessary. See "Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 76 and the documentation that came with your printer.
Setting Up Your Computer27
to
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.
NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or
power interruptions caused by nearby lightning strikes. 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
28Setting Up Your Computer
the UPS manufacturer documentation for information on battery operating
time and to ensure that the device is approved by Underwriters Laboratories
(UL).
Using the Media Card Reader
Use the Media Card Reader to transfer data directly to your computer.
NOTE: A memory card is not a bootable device.
The Media Card Reader reads the following memory cards:
•Secure Digital (SD)
•SDIO
•MultiMediaCard (MMC)
•Memory Stick
•Memory Stick PRO
•xD-Picture Card
•HiSpeed-SD
•Hi Capacity-SD
Setting Up Your Computer29
30Setting Up Your Computer
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