Page 1
Dell Precision™ Workstation 380
Quick Reference Guide
Model DCTA
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Page 2
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.
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 the Glossary in your
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft
User’s Guide
.
®
Windows®
operating systems are not applicable.
____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, and Dell Precision are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Pent iu m are registered trademarks
of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
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 DCTA
May 2005 P/N N8152 Rev. A01
Page 3
Contents
Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Setting Up Your Computer (Tower Orientation)
Setting Up Your Computer (Desktop Orientation)
About Your Computer
Front View (Tower Orientation)
Back View (Tower Orientation)
Front View (Desktop Orientation)
Back View (Desktop Orientation)
Back-Panel Connectors
Inside View
System Board Components
Locating Your User’s Guide
Removing the Computer Cover
Caring for Your Computer
Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
Using Microsoft
®
Windows® XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Using the Last Known Good Configuration
Dell Diagnostics
Before You Start Testing
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
. . . . . . . . . . . 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Beep Codes
Diagnostic Lights
Frequently Asked Questions
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Error Messages
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Contents 3
Page 4
4 Contents
Page 5
Finding Information
NOTE: Some features may not be available for your computer or in certain countries.
NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
• A diagnostic program for my computer
• Drivers for my computer
• My computer documentation
• My device documentation
• Desktop System Software (DSS)
• How to set up my computer
• How to care for my computer
• Basic troubleshooting information
• How to run the Dell Diagnostics
• Error codes and diagnostic lights
• How to remove and install parts
• How to open my computer cover
Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as ResourceCD)
Documentation and drivers are already installed on your
computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers, run the
"Dell Diagnostics" on page 34, or access your
documentation.
NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at
support.dell.com.
Quick Reference Guide
Readme files may be
included on your CD to
provide last-minute
updates about technical
changes to your
computer or advanced
technical-reference
material for technicians
or experienced users.
NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at
support.dell.com.
Quick Reference Guide 5
Page 6
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
• Warranty information
Dell™ Product Information Guide
• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
• How to remove and replace parts
• Specifications
• How to configure system settings
• How to troubleshoot and solve problems
User’s Guide
Microsoft
1
2
The User’s Guide is also available on the
Utilities
• 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
®
Windows® XP Help and Support Center
Click the
Click
Start
button and click
User’s and system guides
CD
.
identify your
computer when you
support.dell.com
use
or contact technical
support.
Help and Support
and click
User’s guides
.
.
Drivers and
6 Quick Reference Guide
• Enter the Express
Service Code to direct
your call when
contacting technical
support.
Page 7
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles
from technicians, 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
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support
site.
NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers
can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website
at premier.support.dell.com. The website may not be
available in all regions.
• 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
• 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 Dell™
3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel
®
Pentium®M
processors, optical drives, and USB devices. 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.
To download Desktop System Software:
1
Go to
support.dell.com
2
Enter your Service Tag or product model.
3
In the
Download Category
4
Select the operating system and operating system
language for your computer, and click
Under
Select a Device
Configuration Utilities
Software
.
• How to use Windows XP
• Documentation for my computer
• Documentation for devices (such as a modem)
and click
Downloads
drop-down menu, click
Submit.
, scroll to
, and click
System and
Dell Desktop System
.
All
.
Windows Help and Support Center
1
Click the
2
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and
click the arrow icon.
3
Click the topic that describes your problem.
4
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Start
button and click
Help and Support
.
Quick Reference Guide 7
Page 8
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
• How to reinstall my operating system
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Operating System CD
The operating system is already installed on your
computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the
Operating System CD. See your User’s Guide for
instructions.
NOTE: The color of your CD varies based on the operating
system you ordered.
NOTE: The Operating System CD is optional and may not
ship with your computer.
• How to use Linux
• E-mail discussions with users of Dell Precision™
products and the Linux operating system
• Additional information regarding Linux and my Dell
Precision computer
Dell Supported Linux Sites
• Linux.dell.com
• Lists.us.dell.com/mailman/listinfo/linux-precision
• Docs.us.dell.com/docs/software/oslinux/
After you reinstall your
operating system, use the
optional 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.
8 Quick Reference Guide
Page 9
Setting Up Your Computer (Tower Orientation)
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
You must complete all steps to properly set up your computer.
1
2
Connect the keyboard and the mouse.
Connect the modem or the network cable.
NOTICE: Do not connect a modem cable to the
network adapter. Voltage from telephone
communications can damage the network adapter.
USB
PS/2
or
PS/2
USB
Network
or
NOTE: If your computer has a network card installed,
connect the network cable to the card.
Modem
Quick Reference Guide 9
Page 10
3
Depending on your graphics
card, you can connect your
monitor in various ways.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Connect the monitor.
NOTE: You may need to use
the provided adapter or
cable to connect your
monitor to the computer.
10 Quick Reference Guide
Page 11
For single- and dual-monitor capable cards with a single connector
One VGA adapter:
VGA
Use the VGA adapter when you have a single-monitor
graphics card and you want to connect your computer to a
VGA monitor.
Dual VGA Y cable adapter:
Dual DVI Y cable adapter:
VGA
VGA
Use the appropriate Y cable when your graphics card has a
single connector and you want to connect your computer
to one or two VGA monitors.
Use the appropriate Y cable when your graphics card has a
single connector and you want to connect your computer
to one or two DVI monitors.
DVI
DVI
The dual-monitor cable is color-coded; the blue connector is for the primary monitor, and the black
connector is for the second monitor. To enable dual-monitor support, both monitors must be
attached to the computer when you start the computer.
Quick Reference Guide 11
Page 12
For dual-monitor capable cards with one DVI connector and one VGA connector
One DVI connector and one VGA connector:
DVI
VGA
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Use the appropriate connector(s) when you want to
connect your computer to one or two monitors.
Two VGA connectors with one VGA adapter:
Use the VGA adapter when you want to connect your
computer to two VGA monitors.
For dual-monitor capable cards with two DVI connectors
Two DVI connectors:
Two DVI connectors with one VGA
adapter:
VGA
VGA
Two DVI connectors with two VGA
adapters:
DVI
DVI
Use the DVI connectors to connect
your computer to one or two DVI
monitors.
12 Quick Reference Guide
DVI
VGA
Use the VGA adapter to connect a
VGA monitor to one of the DVI
connectors on your computer
VGA
VGA
Use two VGA adapters to connect two
VGA monitors to the DVI connectors
on your computer.
Page 13
4
5
Connect the speakers.
NOTE: If your
computer has a sound
card installed, connect
the speakers to the
card.
Connect the power
cables and turn on the
computer and monitor.
LINE OUT
1234
Quick Reference Guide 13
Page 14
6
Before you install any devices or software that did not come with your computer, read the
documentation that came with the software or device or contact the vendor to verify that the
software or device is compatible with your computer and operating system.
You have now completed the setup for your tower computer.
Install additional software or devices.
Setting Up Your Computer (Desktop Orientation)
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
You must complete all steps to properly set up your computer.
1
Connect the keyboard and the
mouse.
NOTICE: Do not connect a
modem cable to the network
adapter. Voltage from
telephone communications
can damage the network
adapter.
PS/2
PS/2
USB
or
USB
or
14 Quick Reference Guide
Page 15
2
Connect the modem or the
network cable.
NOTE: If your computer
has a network card
installed, connect the
network cable to the card.
3
Depending on your graphics card, you
can connect your monitor in various
ways.
Connect the monitor.
NOTE: You may need to use the
provided adapter or cable to connect
your monitor to the computer.
Modem
Network
Quick Reference Guide 15
Page 16
For single- and dual-monitor capable cards with a single connector
VGA adapter:
VGA
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Use the VGA adapter when you have a single monitor
graphics card and you want to connect your computer to a
VGA monitor.
Dual VGA Y cable adapter:
Dual DVI Y cable adapter:
VGA
VGA
Use the appropriate Y cable when your graphics card has a
single connector and you want to connect your computer
to one or two VGA monitors.
The dual-monitor cable is color-coded; the blue connector is for the primary monitor, and the black
connector is for the second monitor. To enable dual-monitor support, both monitors must be
attached to the computer when you start your computer.
16 Quick Reference Guide
DVI
DVI
Use the appropriate Y cable when your graphics card has a
single connector and you want to connect your computer
to one or two DVI monitors.
Page 17
For dual-monitor capable cards with one DVI connector and one VGA connector
One DVI connector and one VGA connector:
DVI
VGA
Two VGA connectors with one VGA adapter:
VGA
VGA
Use the appropriate connector(s) when you want to
connect your computer to one or two monitors.
For dual-monitor capable cards with two DVI connectors
Two DVI connectors:
Two DVI connectors with one VGA
adapter:
DVI
DVI
Use the DVI connector(s) to connect
your computer to one or two DVI
monitors.
Use the VGA adapter to connect a
VGA monitor to one of the DVI
connectors on your computer.
DVI
Use the VGA adapter when you want to connect your
computer to two VGA monitors.
Two DVI connectors with two VGA
adapters:
VGA
VGA
VGA
Use two VGA adapters to connect two
VGA monitors to the DVI connectors
on your computer.
Quick Reference Guide 17
Page 18
4
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
5
Connect the speakers.
NOTE: If your computer has a sound card installed, connect the speakers to the card.
Connect the power cables
and turn on the computer
and monitor.
Your desktop computer has an
optional front IEEE 1394
connector. This connector is only
available if you purchased an
IEEE 1394 card. To purchase a
card, contact Dell. For
instructions on contacting Dell
and for more information on the
IEEE 1394 card, see your
Guide
.
User’s
LINE OUT
4
3
2
1
6
Install additional software or devices.
Before you install any devices or software that did not come with your computer, read the
documentation that came with the software or device or contact the vendor to verify that the
software or device is compatible with your computer and operating system.
You have now completed the setup for your desktop computer.
18 Quick Reference Guide
Page 19
About Your Computer
Front View (Tower Orientation)
14
13
1
2
3
4
12
11
1234
10
9
1 upper 5.25-inch drive bay Holds a CD/DVD drive.
2 lower 5.25-inch drive bay Holds a CD/DVD drive or an optional third hard drive.
3 upper 3.5-inch drive bay Holds an optional fourth hard drive (serial ATA).
4 lower 3.5-inch drive bay You can use the bay for an optional floppy drive or an optional
Media Card Reader.
5 hard-drive activity light The hard drive light is on when the computer reads data from or
writes data to the hard drive. The light might also be on when a
device such as your CD player is operating.
5
6
7
8
Quick Reference Guide 19
Page 20
6 IEEE 1394 connector
(optional)
7 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
8 Dell™ badge rotation
notch
9 power button Press to turn on the computer.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Use the optional IEEE 1394 connectors for high-speed data devices such as digital
video cameras and external storage devices.
flash memory keys or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see
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.
To rotate, place fingers around the outside of the badge, press in, and turn the
badge. You can also rotate the badge using the slot provided near the bottom of
the badge.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the
computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown.
system setup
NOTE: The power button can also be used to wake the computer or to place it into a
power-saving state. See "Power Management" in your User’s Guide for more
information.
10 power light The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:
• No light — The computer is turned off.
• Steady green — The computer is in a normal operating state.
• Blinking green — The computer is in a power-saving state.
• Blinking or solid amber — See "Power Problems" in your
To exit from a power-saving state, press the power button or use the keyboard or
the mouse if it is configured as a wake device in the Windows Device Manager. For
more information about sleep states and exiting from a power-saving state, see
"Power Management" in your User’s Guide.
See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 37 for a description of light codes that can help
you troubleshoot problems with your computer.
11 microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone for
voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
12 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones.
13 diagnostic lights (4) Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem based on the
diagnostic code. For more information, see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 37.
14 network link light The network link light is on when a good connection exists between a 10-Mbps,
100-Mbps, or 1000-Mbps (or 1-Gbps) network and the computer.
User’s Guide
for
.
20 Quick Reference Guide
Page 21
Back View (Tower Orientation)
1
2
3
4
1 power connector Insert the power cable into this connector.
2 voltage selection switch See the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide for more
information.
3 back-panel connectors Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connector.
4 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI or PCI Express cards.
Quick Reference Guide 21
Page 22
Front View (Desktop Orientation)
1 2 7
3
5 6
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
4
4
3
2
1
89101112
1 upper 5.25-inch drive
This bay holds a CD/DVD drive.
bay
2 lower 5.25-inch drive bay This bay holds an optional CD/DVD drive or an optional third hard drive (serial
ATA or SCSI).
3 3.5-inch drive bay You can use the bay for a floppy drive or an optional Media Card Reader.
4 hard-drive activity light The hard-drive activity light is on when the computer reads data from or writes
data to the hard drive. The light might also be on when a device such as your CD
player is operating.
5 IEEE 1394 connector
(optional)
Use the optional IEEE 1394 connectors for high-speed data devices such as digital
video cameras and external storage devices.
22 Quick Reference Guide
Page 23
6 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
flash memory keys or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see
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.
7 power button Press to turn on the computer.
system setup
for
NOTE: The power button can also be used to wake the computer or to place it into a
power-saving state. See "Power Management" for more information.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the
computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown.
8 power light The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:
• No light — The computer is turned off.
• Steady green — The computer is in a normal operating state.
• Blinking green — The computer is in a power-saving state.
• Blinking or solid amber — See "Power Problems."
To exit from a power-saving state, press the power button or use the keyboard or
the mouse if it is configured as a wake device in the Windows Device Manager. For
more information about sleep states and exiting from a power-saving state, see
"Power Management."
See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 37 for a description of light codes that can help
you troubleshoot problems with your computer.
9 diagnostic lights (4) Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem based on the
diagnostic code. For more information, see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 37.
10 microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone for
voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
11 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones.
12 network link light The network link light is on when a good connection exists between a 10-Mbps,
100-Mbps, or 1000-Mbps (or 1-Gbps) network and the computer.
Quick Reference Guide 23
Page 24
Back View (Desktop Orientation)
32
1
1
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
4
1 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI or PCI Express cards.
2 power connector Insert the power cable into this connector.
3 voltage selection switch See the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide for more information.
4 back-panel connectors Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connector.
Back-Panel Connectors
24 Quick Reference Guide
2 345
9101112
6
7
8
Page 25
1 mouse connector Plug a standard mouse into the green mouse connector. Turn off the computer
and any attached devices before you connect a mouse to the computer. If you have
a USB mouse, plug it into a USB connector.
®
If your computer is running the Microsoft
necessary mouse drivers have been installed on your hard drive.
2 parallel connector Connect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel connector. If you have a
USB printer, plug it into a USB connector.
Windows XP operating system, the
NOTE: The integrated parallel connector is automatically disabled if the computer
detects an installed card containing a parallel connector configured to the same
address. For more information, see "System Setup Options" in the User’s Guide.
3 link integrity light
4 network adapter
connector
• Green — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps network and the
computer.
• Orange — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps network and the
computer.
• Yellow — A good connection exists between a 1000-Mbps (or 1-Gbps) network
and the computer.
• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.
To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a
network cable to either a network jack or your network or broadband device.
Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on
your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely
attached.
NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network connector.
On computers with an additional network connector card, use the connectors on
the card and on the back of the computer when setting up multiple network
connections (such as a separate intra- and extranet).
It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your
network. If you must use Category 3 wiring, force the network speed to 10 Mbps to
ensure reliable operation.
5 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.
Quick Reference Guide 25
Page 26
6 line-in connector Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a cassette
player, CD player, or VCR.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
7 line-out connector Use the green line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with
integrated amplifiers.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
8 microphone connector Use the pink microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone
for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.
9 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
10 USB 2.0 connectors (3) Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
11 serial connector Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. The default
12 keyboard connector If you have a standard keyboard, plug it into the purple keyboard connector. If you
printers and keyboards.
It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you
connect occasionally, such as flash memory keys or cameras, or for bootable USB
devices.
printers and keyboards.
It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you
connect occasionally, such as flash memory keys or cameras, or for bootable USB
devices.
designations are COM1 for serial connector 1 and COM2 for the optional serial
connector 2.
For more information, see "System Setup Options" in the User’s Guide
have a USB keyboard, plug it into a USB connector.
.
26 Quick Reference Guide
Page 27
Inside View
1
2
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
3
10
9
8
7
1 power supply 6 card fan
2 optional additional fan 7 processor fan
3 system board 8 lower 3.5-inch drive bay
4 hard drive 9 upper 5.25-inch drive bay
5 processor airflow shroud 10 hard drive cage
4
5
6
Quick Reference Guide 27
Page 28
Cable Colors
1
2
3 4 5
System Board Components
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Device Color
Hard drive blue cable
Floppy drive black pull tab
CD/DVD drive orange pull tab
6
23
22
21
20
19
18
1617
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
28 Quick Reference Guide
Page 29
1 power connector (12VPOWER) 13 PCI-Express x1 card slot
2 memory module connectors 14 PCI-Express x16 up to 150w card slot
3 battery socket (BATTERY) 15 PCI-Express x8 card slot (wired as x4)
4 memory fan connector (FAN_MEM) 16 PCI card slots (1-3)
5 front panel connector 17 external light connector (AUX LED)
6 main power connector (POWER) 18 floppy drive (FLOPPY)
7 IDE drive connector (IDE) 19 serial connector (SERIAL2)
8 SATA connectors (SATA-1, SATA-3, SATA-0,
SATA-2)
9 RTC reset jumper (RTCRST) 21 internal speaker connector (INT_SPKR)
10 Flexbay connector (FLEXBAY) 22 processor fan connector (FAN_CPU)
11 chassis intrusion header 23 processor connector (CPU)
12 password jumper (PASS)
20 card cage fan (FAN CARD CAGE)
Locating Your User’s Guide
Your
User’s Guide
• Technical specifications
• Information for changing the orientation of your computer from a desktop to a tower
• Front and back views of your computer, including all of the available connectors
• Inside views of your computer, including a detailed graphic of the system board and the
connectors
• Instructions for cleaning your computer
• Information on software features, such as LegacySelect Technology control, using a password,
and system setup options
• Tips and information for using the Microsoft Windows XP operating system
• Instructions for removing and installing parts, including memory, cards, drives, the
microprocessor, and the battery
• Information for troubleshooting various computer problems
• Instructions for using the Dell Diagnostics and reinstalling drivers
• Information on how to contact Dell
You can access the
support.dell.com
contains additional information about your computer such as:
User’s Guide
from your hard drive or the Dell Support website at
.
Quick Reference Guide 29
Page 30
To access the User’s Guide from your hard drive:
Click the
To access your User’s Guide from the Dell Support website:
1
2
3
Start
Go to
support.dell.com
Follow the prompts on the website that ask you for information specific to your computer.
At the Dell Support website home page, click
and then select your computer.
Removing the Computer Cover
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CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before removing the cover.
NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted
metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an
unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn
off your computer.
1
Shut down the operating system:
a
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the
click
b
In the
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.
button and click
Help and Support
.
Turn Off Computer
Turn off computer
.
window, click
.
Reference
Tur n o ff
.
, click
User’s Guides
Start
button, and then
, click
Systems
,
2
Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and
attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system,
turn them off now.
3
If you have installed a security cable, remove it from the security cable slot.
NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the
computer or the surface on which it is resting.
4
Lay your computer on a flat surface with the computer cover facing up.
5
Pull back the cover latch release.
30 Quick Reference Guide
Page 31
cover latc
h
cover latch release
computer cover
6
Locate the three hinge tabs on the edge of the computer.
7
Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up, using the hinges as leverage
points.
8
Release the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside in a secure location.
hinge tabs (3)
Caring for Your Computer
To help maintain your computer, follow these suggestions:
• To avoid losing or corrupting data, never turn off your computer when the hard drive light is on.
• Schedule regular virus scans using virus software.
• Manage hard drive space by periodically deleting unnecessary files and defragmenting the
drive.
• Back up files on a regular basis.
• Periodically clean your monitor screen, mouse, and keyboard (see your
information).
User’s Guide
Quick Reference Guide 31
for more
Page 32
Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips
Perform the following checks when you troubleshoot your computer:
• If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures
and ensure that the part is correctly installed.
• If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.
• If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. The message may
help technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).
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• If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.
• If the recommended action in the troubleshooting section is to see a section in your
Guide
, go to
Guide.
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly
configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1
Click the
2
Ty p e
hardware troubleshooter
3
Click
Hardware Troubleshooter
4
In the
Hardware Troubleshooter
computer
support.dell.com (on another computer if necessary) to access your
Start
button and click
, and click
Next
Help and Support
in the
list, click
.
.
in the
Search
field and click the arrow to start the search.
Search Results
I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my
list.
User’s
User’s
Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore
The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your
computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware,
software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the
Windows Help and Support Center (see "Finding Information" on page 5) for information about
using System Restore.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or
recover them.
Creating a Restore Point
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
32 Quick Reference Guide
Start
System Restore
button and click
.
Help and Support
.
Page 33
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files
and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system
restoration is complete.
1
Click the
System Restore
2
Ensure that
3
Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
The
Start
button, point to
.
Restore my computer to an earlier time
Select a Restore Point
All Programs→
Accessories→
System Tools
is selected and click
, and then click
Next
.
screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore
points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.
4
Select a restore point and click
Next
.
If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected.
If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.
5
Click
Next
.
The
Restoration Complete
screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and
then the computer restarts.
6
After the computer restarts, click OK.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you
can undo the restoration.
Undoing the Last System Restore
NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open
programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1
Click the
System Restore
2
Click
3
Click
The
4
After the computer restarts, click OK.
Enabling System Restore
Start
button, point to
.
Undo my last restoration
Next
.
System Restore
screen appears and the computer restarts.
All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools
and click
Next
.
, and then click
If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System
Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Click
Start
button and click
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
System
.
.
.
Quick Reference Guide 33
Page 34
4
Click the
5
Ensure that
System Restore
tab.
Turn off System Restore
is unchecked.
Using the Last Known Good Configuration
1
Restart your computer and press <F8> when the message
operating system to start
2
Highlight
Last Known Good Configuration
appears.
, press <Enter>, press <l>, and then select your
operating system when prompted.
Other Options to Help Resolve Additional Device or Software Conflicts
Please select the
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NOTICE: The following processes erase all of the information on your hard drive.
• Reinstall your operating system using the operating system installation guide and
System
CD.
During the operating system reinstallation, you can select to delete the existing partitions and
reformat your hard drive.
• Reinstall all drivers, beginning with the chipset, using the
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 "Solving Problems" on
page 32 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. Using this program with other computers
can cause incorrect computer responses or result in error messages.
The Dell Diagnostics allow you to:
• Perform quick checks or extensive tests on one or all devices
• Choose how many times a test is run
• Display or print test results or save them in a file
• Suspend testing if an error is detected or terminate testing if a certain number of errors occur
• Access online
• Read status messages that tell you whether tests completed successfully
• Receive error messages if problems are detected
Drivers and Utilities
Help
screens that describe the tests and how to run them
Operating
CD
.
34 Quick Reference Guide
Page 35
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
1
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2
When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, see "Starting the
Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD" on page 35.
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. For more
information on shutting down your computer, see your
3
When the boot device list appears, highlight
4
When the Dell Diagnostics
information on the tests, see your
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD
1
Insert the
2
Shut down and restart the computer. For more information on shutting down your computer,
see your
3
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
Drivers and Utilities
User’s Guide.
Main Menu
User’s Guide.
CD.
Boot to Utility Partition
appears, select the test you want to run. For more
User’s Guide.
and press <Enter>.
If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the
Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again. For more information on
shutting down your computer, see your
NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer
boots according to the devices specified in system setup.
4
When the boot device list appears, highlight
5
Select the
6
Select the
7
Ty p e 1 to start the ResourceCD menu.
8
Ty p e 2 to start the Dell Diagnostics.
9
Select
IDE CD-ROM Device
Boot from CD-ROM
Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics
User’s Guide.
IDE CD-ROM Device
and press <Enter>.
option from the CD boot menu.
option from the menu that appears.
from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed,
select the version appropriate for your computer.
10
When the Dell Diagnostics
information on the tests, see your
Main Menu
User’s Guide.
appears, select the test you want to run. For more
Quick Reference Guide 35
Page 36
Before You Start Testing
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
• Turn on your printer if one is attached.
• Enter system setup, review your computer’s configuration information, and enable all of your
computer’s components and devices, such as connectors.
Beep Codes
Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies a problem. One possible beep code
(code 1-3-1) consists of one beep, a burst of three beeps, and then one beep. This beep code tells
you that the computer encountered a memory problem.
If a beep code is emitted, write it down and look it up in the following table.
Code Cause
1-1-2 Microprocessor register failure
1-1-3 NVRAM read/write failure
1-1-4 ROM BIOS checksum failure
1-2-1 Programmable interval timer failure
1-2-2 DMA initialization failure
1-2-3 DMA page register read/write failure
1-3 Video Memory Test failure
1-3-1 through 2-4-4 Memory not being properly identified or used
1-3-2 Memory problem
3-1-1 Slave DMA register failure
3-1-2 Master DMA register failure
3-1-3 Master interrupt mask register failure
3-1-4 Slave interrupt mask register failure
3-2-2 Interrupt vector loading failure
3-2-4 Keyboard Controller Test failure
3-3-1 NVRAM power loss
3-3-2 Invalid NVRAM configuration
3-3-4 Video Memory Test failure
3-4-1 Screen initialization failure
36 Quick Reference Guide
Page 37
Code Cause
3-4-2 Screen retrace failure
3-4-3 Search for video ROM failure
4-2-1 No timer tick
4-2-2 Shutdown failure
4-2-3 Gate A20 failure
4-2-4 Unexpected interrupt in protected mode
4-3-1 Memory failure above address 0FFFFh
4-3-3 Timer-chip counter 2 failure
4-3-4 Time-of-day clock stopped
4-4-1 Serial or parallel port test failure
4-4-2 Failure to decompress code to shadowed memory
4-4-3 Math-coprocessor test failure
4-4-4 Cache test failure
Error Messages
NOTE: If the message is not listed, see the documentation for either the operating system or the program
that was running when the message appeared.
If an error occurs during start-up, a message may be displayed on the monitor identifying the
problem. See "Error Messages" in the
User’s Guide
for suggestions on resolving any problems.
Diagnostic Lights
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4" on
the front. The lights can be off or green. When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. After
the computer starts, all four lights display solid green briefly and then turn off to indicate normal
operation. If the computer malfunctions, the pattern of the lights identify the problem.
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
The computer is in a normal off
condition or a possible pre-BIOS failure
has occurred.
NOTE: The diagnostic lights turn off after
a short time if the computer is in a normal
operating condition after POST.
Plug the computer into a working
electrical outlet and press the power
button.
Quick Reference Guide 37
Page 38
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
A possible BIOS failure has occurred; the
computer is in the recovery mode.
Run the BIOS Recovery utility, wait for
recovery completion, and then restart
the computer.
A possible processor failure has occurred. Reinstall the processor and restart the
computer.
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Memory modules are detected, but a
memory failure has occurred.
1
Reseat the memory modules to ensure
that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory.
2
Restart the computer.
3
If the problem still exists, remove all
the memory modules and install one
memory module in memory module
connector 4.
4
Restart the computer.
The following message appears:
Alert! Operating in Debug
Mode. Please Populate
Memory in Pairs for Normal
Operation
5
Press <F1> to boot to the operating
.
system.
6
Run the Dell Diagnostics. See page 34
for instructions.
7
If the memory module passes, shut
down the computer, remove the
memory module, and then repeat the
process with the remaining memory
modules until a memory error occurs
during start-up or diagnostic testing.
If the first memory module tested is
defective, repeat the process with the
remaining modules to ensure that the
remaining modules are not defective.
8
When the defective memory module
is identified, contact Dell for a
replacement. For instructions on
contacting Dell, see your
User’s Guide
NOTE: If necessary, the computer can
operate in debug mode until new memory
modules are installed.
.
38 Quick Reference Guide
Page 39
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
A possible expansion card failure has
occurred.
1
Determine if a conflict exists by
removing a card (not the graphics
card) and then restarting the
computer. For more information on
removing a card, see your
.
Guide
2
If the problem persists, reinstall the
card that you removed, remove a
different card, and then restart the
computer.
3
Repeat this process for each card. If
the computer starts normally,
troubleshoot the last card removed
from the computer for resource
conflicts (see"Resolving Software and
Hardware Incompatibilities" on
page 32).
4
If the problem persists, contact Dell.
For instructions on contacting Dell,
A possible graphics card failure has
occurred.
see your
• If the computer has a graphics card,
remove the card, reinstall it, and then
User’s Guide
restart the computer.
• If the problem still exists, install a
graphics card that you know works and
restart the computer.
• If the problem persists or the
computer has integrated graphics,
contact Dell. For instructions on
contacting Dell, see your
A possible floppy or hard drive failure
has occurred.
Reseat all power and data cables and
restart the computer.
User’s
.
User’s Guide.
A possible USB failure has occurred. Reinstall all USB devices, check cable
connections, and then restart the
computer.
Quick Reference Guide 39
Page 40
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
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No memory modules are detected. 1
Reseat the memory modules to ensure
that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory.
2
Restart the computer.
3
If the problem still exists, remove all
the memory modules and install one
memory module in memory module
connector 4.
4
Restart the computer.
The following message appears:
Alert! Operating in Debug
Mode. Please Populate
Memory in Pairs for Normal
Operation
5
Press <F1> to boot to the operating
.
system.
6
Run the Dell Diagnostics. See page 34
for instructions.
7
If the memory module passes, shut
down the computer, remove the
memory module, and then repeat the
process with the remaining memory
modules until a memory error occurs
during start-up or diagnostic testing.
If the first memory module tested is
defective, repeat the process with the
remaining modules to ensure that the
remaining modules are not defective.
8
When the defective memory module
is identified, contact Dell for a
replacement.For instructions on
contacting Dell, see your
User’s Guide.
NOTE: If necessary, the computer can
operate in debug mode until new memory
modules are installed.
System board failure has occurred. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
For instructions on contacting Dell, see
your User’s Guide.
40 Quick Reference Guide
Page 41
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
Memory modules are detected, but a
memory configuration or compatibility
error exists.
• Ensure that no special memory
module/memory connector placement
requirements exist.
• Verify that the memory modules that
you are installing are compatible with
your computer.
• Reinstall the memory modules and
restart the computer.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell.
For instructions on contacting Dell,
User’s Guide.
A possible system board resource and/or
hardware failure has occurred.
see your
• Perform the procedures in "Resolving
Software and Hardware
Incompatibilities" on page 32.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell.
For instructions on contacting Dell,
User’s Guide.
A possible expansion card failure has
occurred.
see your
1
Determine if a conflict exists by
removing a card (not a graphics card)
and restarting the computer.
2
If the problem persists, reinstall the
card that you removed, remove a
different card, and then restart the
computer.
3
Repeat this process for each card. If
the computer starts normally,
troubleshoot the last card removed
from the computer for resource
conflicts (see "Resolving Software and
Hardware Incompatibilities" on
page 32).
4
If the problem persists, contact Dell.
For instructions on contacting Dell,
Another failure has occurred.
This pattern also displays when you enter
system setup and may not indicate a
problem.
see your
• Ensure that the cables are properly
connected to the system board from
the hard drive, CD drive, and DVD
drive.
User’s Guide.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell.
For instructions on contacting Dell,
see your
User’s Guide.
Quick Reference Guide 41
Page 42
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
The computer is in a normal operating
condition after POST.
None.
NOTE: The diagnostic lights turn off after
a short time if the computer is in a normal
operating condition after POST.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I... Solution Where to Find Additional Information
Set up my computer to use two
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
monitors?
Connect my monitor when the
monitor cable connector doesn’t
seem to fit the connector on the
back of my computer?
Connect my speakers? If you have a sound card installed,
If your computer has the required
graphics card to support dualmonitor setup, then look in your
shipping box for a Y-cable. The
Y-cable has a single connector on one
end (plug this connector into the
back panel) and branches into two
connectors (plug these connectors
into the monitor cables). For the
tower computer, see page 10 and for
the desktop computer, see page 15.
If your graphics card has a DVI
connector but your monitor has a
VGA connector, then you need to use
an adapter. An adapter should be
included in the shipping box.
connect the speakers to the
connectors on the card. For the tower
computer, see page 13 and for the
desktop computer, see page 18.
See "Setting Up Your Computer
(Tower Orientation)" on page 9 or
"Setting Up Your Computer
(Desktop Orientation)" on page 14
for information on connecting dual
monitors to your computer.
See "Setting Up Your Computer
(Tower Orientation)" on page 9 or
"Setting Up Your Computer
(Desktop Orientation)" on page 14
for information on connecting
monitors to your computer. For more
information, contact Dell. For
information on contacting Dell, see
your User’s Guide.
See the documentation that came
with your speakers for more
information.
42 Quick Reference Guide
Page 43
How Do I... Solution Where to Find Additional Information
Find the right connectors for my
USB or IEEE 1394 devices?
Locate information about the
hardware and other technical
specifications for my computer?
Find documentation for my
computer?
Your tower computer has eight USB
connectors (two on the front, one
internal, and five on the back).
Your desktop computer has eight
USB connectors (two on the front,
one internal, and five on the back)
and an optional front IEEE 1394
connector. This connector is only
available if you purchased an IEEE
1394 card. To purchase a card,
contact Dell. For more information
on the IEEE 1394 card, see your
User’s Guide.
Yo u r User’s Guide has a
specifications table that provides
more detailed information about
your computer and the hardware. To
locate your User’s Guide, see
"Finding Information" on page 5.
The following documentation is
available for your computer:
• User’s Guide
• Product Information Guide
• System Information Label
To locate these documents, see
"Finding Information" on page 5.
See "About Your Computer" on
page 19 for illustrations of the front
and back views of your computer.
For help locating your User’s Guide,
see "Finding Information" on page 5.
Go to the Dell Support website at
support.dell.com and use one of the
following support tools: read white
papers on the latest technology or
communicate with other Dell users
at the Dell forum chat room.
If you lose your documentation, it is
available on the Dell Support website
at support.dell.com.
Quick Reference Guide 43
Page 44
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
44 Quick Reference Guide
Page 45
Index
B
beep codes, 36
C
cards
slots, 21, 24
computer
beep codes, 36
restore to previous state, 32
conflicts
software and hardware
incompatibilities, 32
connectors
headphone, 20, 23
IEEE, 20, 22
keyboard, 2 6
line-in, 26
line-out, 26
microphone, 26
mouse, 25
network adapter, 25
parallel, 25
power, 21, 24
serial, 26
sound, 26
USB, 20, 23, 26
D
Dell
support site, 7
Dell Diagnostics, 34
Dell Premier Support
website, 6-7
diagnostic lights, 37
diagnostics
beep codes, 36
Dell, 34
Drivers and Utilities CD, 5
lights, 20, 23, 37
documentation
device, 5
online, 7
Product Information Guide, 6
Quick Reference, 5
ResourceCD, 5
User’s Guide, 6
drivers
ResourceCD, 5
Drivers and Utilities CD, 5
E
error messages
beep codes, 36
diagnostic lights, 37
H
hard drive
activity light, 19-20, 22-23
hardware
beep codes, 36
conflicts, 32
Dell Diagnostics, 34
Hardware Troubleshooter, 32
headphone
connector, 20, 23
Help and Support Center, 7
I
IEEE
connectors, 20, 22
installing parts
turning off your computer, 30
IRQ conflicts, 32
K
keyboard
connector, 26
L
labels
Microsoft Windows, 6
Service Tag, 6
Index 45
Page 46
lights
back of computer, 37
diagnostic, 20, 23, 37
hard-drive activity, 19-20,
22-23
link integrity, 25
network, 25
network activity, 25
power, 20, 23
M
microphone
connector, 26
Microsoft Windows label, 6
motherboard. See system
board
mouse
connector, 25
P
power
button, 20, 23
connector, 21, 24
light, 20, 23
problems
beep codes, 36
conflicts, 32
Dell Diagnostics, 34
diagnostic lights, 37
restore to previous state, 32
R
reinstalling
Drivers and Utilities CD, 5
ResourceCD, 5
ResourceCD
Dell Diagnostics, 34
T
troubleshooting
conflicts, 32
Dell Diagnostics, 34
diagnostic lights, 37
Hardware Troubleshooter, 32
Help and Support Center, 7
restore to previous state, 32
U
USB
connector, 26
connectors, 20, 23
User’s Guide, 6
V
voltage selection switch, 21,
24
N
network
connector, 25
O
Operating System
CD, 8
Installation Guide, 8
46 Index
S
safety instructions, 6
Service Tag, 6
software
conflicts, 32
sound connectors
line-in, 26
line-out, 26
system board, 28
System Restore, 32
W
warranty, 6
Windows XP
Hardware Troubleshooter, 32
Help and Support Center, 7
System Restore, 32
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