Dell OptiPlex 745 User Manual [en, cs, pl]

Dell™ OptiPlex™ 745

Quick Reference Guide

Models DCTR, DCNE, DCSM, and DCCY

w w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

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

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

____________________

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2006 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, Inspiron, 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 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.

Models DCTR, DCNE, DCSM, and DCCY

August 2006

P/N FH898

Rev. A00

Contents

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	5
System Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	8
Mini Tower Computer — Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	8
Mini Tower Computer — Back View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	10
Mini Tower Computer — Back-Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . .	11
Desktop Computer — Front View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	13
Desktop Computer — Back View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	14
Desktop Computer — Back-Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15
Small Form Factor Computer — Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	17
Small Form Factor Computer — Back View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	18
Small Form Factor Computer — Back-Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . .	19
Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer — Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . .	21
Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer — Side View. . . . . . . . . . . . . .	22
Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer — Back View . . . . . . . . . . . . .	23
Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer — Back-Panel Connectors . . . . . .	23
Removing the Computer Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	24
Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	25
Mini Tower Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	26
Desktop Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	27
Small Form Factor Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	28
Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	30
Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
Mini Tower Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
Desktop Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
Small Form Factor Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	38
Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	41
Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	43
Set Up Your Keyboard and Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	45
Set Up Your Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	45
Power Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	46
Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	46
Dell Diagnostics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	46
System Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	49

Contents 3

Diagnostic Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	50
Beep Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	52
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities . . . . . . . . . . .	53
Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	54
Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	55
Using the Drivers and Utilities CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	58
Drivers for Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	58
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	59

4 Contents

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 and Utilities CD (ResourceCD)
• Drivers for my computer	NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may be optional
• My computer documentation	and may not ship with your computer.
• My device documentation	Documentation and drivers are already installed on
• Desktop System Software (DSS)	your computer. You can use the CD to reinstall
	drivers (see "Using the Drivers and Utilities CD" on
	page 58), run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
	Diagnostics" on page 46), or access your
	documentation.
	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: Drivers and documentation updates can be
	found at support.dell.com.
• How to remove and replace parts	Dell™ OptiPlex™ User’s Guide
• Specifications	Microsoft Windows XP Help and Support Center
• How to configure system settings	1 Click Start→ Help and Support→ Dell User and
• How to troubleshoot and solve problems	System Guides→ System Guides.
	2 Click the User’s Guide for your computer.
	The User’s Guide is also available on the optional
	Drivers and Utilities CD.

Quick Reference Guide

5

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

• How to reinstall my operating system	Operating System CD
	NOTE: The Operating System CD may be optional and
	may not ship with your computer.
	The operating system is already installed on your
	computer. To reinstall your operating system, use
	the Operating System CD (see "Reinstalling
	Microsoft Windows XP" on page 55).
	After you reinstall
	your operating
	system, use the
	optional Drivers and
	Utilities CD
	(ResourceCD) to
	reinstall drivers for
	the devices that
	came with your
	computer. For more
	information, see
	"Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD)" on page 5.
	Your operating system product key label is located
	on your computer (see "Service Tag and Microsoft®
	Windows® Product Key" on page 7).
	NOTE: The color of your Operating System CD varies
	according to the operating system you ordered.
• How to use Windows XP	Windows Help and Support Center
• How to work with programs and files	1 Click Start→ Help and Support.
• How to personalize my desktop	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.

6 Quick Reference Guide

What Are You Looking For?	Find It Here
• Service Tag and Express Service Code	Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® Product Key
• Microsoft Windows Product Key Label	These labels are located on your computer.
	• Use the Service
	Tag to identify
	your computer
	when you use
	support.dell.co
	m or contact
	support.
	• Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call
	when contacting support.
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles	Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
from technicians, online courses, and frequently asked	NOTE: Select your region or business segment to
questions	view the appropriate support site.
• Community — Online discussion with other Dell
customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such
as the memory, hard drive, and operating system
• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and
order status, and warranty and repair information
• Service and support — Service call status, support
history, service contract, and online discussions with
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 on your computer, you should also	To download Desktop System Software:
reinstall the DSS utility. DSS automatically detects your
computer and operating system and installs the updates	1 Go to support.dell.com, select your region or
appropriate for your configuration, providing critical	business segment, then enter your Service Tag.
updates for your operating system and support for Dell™	2 Select Drivers & Downloads, then click Go.
3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel® processors, optical	3 Click your operating system, and then search for
drives, and USB devices. DSS is necessary for correct	the keyword Desktop System Software.
operation of your Dell computer.	NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary
	depending on your selections.

Quick Reference Guide		7

System Views

Mini Tower Computer — Front View

	1
	2
	3
11	4
10	5
	6
9	7
	8

8 Quick Reference Guide

1	5.25-inch drive bay	Can contain an optical drive. Insert a CD or DVD (if supported) into this drive.
2	5.25-inch drive bay	Can contain an optical drive. Insert a CD or DVD (if supported) into this drive.
3	3.5-inch drive bay	Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional media card reader.
4	USB 2.0 connectors (2)	Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
		joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see your online User’s Guide 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.
5	LAN indicator light	This light indicates that a LAN (local area network) connection is established.
6	diagnostic lights	Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem based on the diagnostic
		code. For more information, see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 50.
7	power button	Press this button to turn on the computer.
		NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not turn off the computer by pressing the power
		button. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown. See "Before You Begin" on
		page 25 for more information.
		NOTICE: If your operating system has ACPI enabled, when you press the power
		button the computer will perform an operating system shutdown.
8	power light	The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different operating
		modes:
		• 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 mode.
		• Blinking or solid amber — See your online User’s Guide.
		To exit from a power-saving mode, 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 modes and exiting from a power-saving mode, see your online
		User’s Guide.
		See "System Lights" on page 49 for a description of light codes that can help you
		troubleshoot problems with your computer.
9	hard-drive activity light	This light flickers when the hard drive is being accessed.
10	headphone connector	Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most kinds of speakers.
11	microphone connector	Use the microphone connector to attach a microphone.

Quick Reference Guide		9

Mini Tower Computer — Back View

1

2 3

4

5

6

1	cover-release latch	This latch allows you to open the computer cover.
2	padlock ring	Insert a padlock to lock the computer cover.

10 Quick Reference Guide

3	voltage selection switch	Your computer is equipped with a manual voltage-selection switch.
		To help avoid damaging a computer with a manual voltage-selection switch, set the
		switch for the voltage that most closely matches the AC power available in your
		location.
		NOTICE: The voltage selection switch must be set to the 115-V position even
		though the AC power available in Japan is 100 V.
		Also, ensure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to operate
		with the AC power available in your location.
4	power connector	Insert the power cable.
5	back-panel connectors	Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connectors (see "Mini
		Tower Computer — Back-Panel Connectors" on page 11).
6	card slots	Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express cards.

Mini Tower Computer — Back-Panel Connectors

	1	2	3	4
				5
				6
9	8			7

1	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.
		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 your online User’s Guide.
2	link integrity light	• 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 1-Gbps (or 1000-Mbps) network and the computer.

•Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.

Quick Reference Guide		11

3	network adapter	To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a
	connector	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
		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.
		On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card.
		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.
4	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.
5	line-out connector	Use the green line-out connector to attach most speakers with integrated
		amplifiers.
6	line-in/microphone	Use the blue and pink line-in/microphone connector to attach a record/playback
	connector	device such as a cassette player, CD player, or VCR.; or a personal computer
		microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
7	USB 2.0 connectors (6)	Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
		printers and keyboards.
8	video connector	Plug the cable from your VGA-compatible monitor into the blue connector.
		NOTE: If you purchased an optional graphics card, this connector will be covered by
		a cap. Connect your monitor to the connector on the graphics card. Do not remove
		the cap.
		NOTE: If you are using a graphics card that supports dual monitors, use the y-cable
		that came with your computer.
9	serial connector	Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. The default
		designations are COM1 for serial connector 1 and COM2 for serial connector 2.

For more information, see your online User’s Guide.

12 Quick Reference Guide

Desktop Computer — Front View

1

2

3

	11	10	9	8	7	6	5	4
1	USB 2.0 connectors (2)		Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
			joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see your online User’s Guide for
			more information about 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.
2	LAN indicator light		This light indicates that a LAN (local area network) connection is established.
3	power button		Press this button to turn on the computer.
			NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not turn off the computer by pressing the
			power button. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown. See "Before You
			Begin" on page 25 for more information.
			NOTICE: If your operating system has ACPI enabled, when you press the
			power button the computer will perform an operating system shutdown.
4	Dell badge		This badge can be rotated to match the orientation of your computer. To rotate,
			place fingers around the outside of the badge, press firmly, and turn the badge. You
			can also rotate the badge using the slot provided near the bottom of the badge.

Quick Reference Guide		13

5

power light

The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different

operating 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 mode.

• Blinking or solid amber — See your online User’s Guide.

To exit from a power-saving mode, 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 modes and exiting from a power-saving mode, see

your online User’s Guide.

See "System Lights" on page 49 for a description of light codes that can help you

troubleshoot problems with your computer.

6

diagnostic lights

Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem based on the

diagnostic code. For more information, see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 50.

7

hard-drive activity light

This light flickers when the hard drive is being accessed.

8

headphone connector

Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most kinds of speakers.

9

microphone connector

Use the microphone connector to attach a microphone.

10

3.5-inch drive bay

Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional Media Card Reader.

11

5.25-inch drive bay

Can contain an optical drive. Insert a CD or DVD (if supported) into this drive.

Desktop Computer — Back View

1

2

3

4

5

6

14 Quick Reference Guide

1	card slots	Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express cards.
2	back-panel connectors	Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connectors (see "Desktop
		Computer — Back-Panel Connectors" on page 15).
3	power connector	Insert the power cable.
4	voltage selection switch	Your computer is equipped with a manual voltage selection switch.
		To help avoid damaging a computer with a manual voltage selection switch, set
		the switch for the voltage that most closely matches the AC power available in
		your location.
		NOTICE: The voltage selection switch must be set to the 115-V position even
		though the AC power available in Japan is 100 V.
		Also, ensure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to
		operate with the AC power available in your location.
5	padlock ring	Insert a padlock to lock the computer cover.
6	cover-release latch	Allows you to open the computer cover.

Desktop Computer — Back-Panel Connectors

	1	2	3	4
				5
				6
9	8			7

Quick Reference Guide		15

1	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.
		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 your online User’s Guide.
2	link integrity light	• 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 1-Gbps (or 1000-Mbps) network
		and the computer.
		• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.
3	network adapter	To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a
	connector	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
		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.
		On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card.
		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.
4	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.
5	line-out connector	Use the green line-out connector to attach most speakers with integrated
		amplifiers.
6	line-in/microphone	Use the blue and pink line-in/microphone connector to attach a record/playback
	connector	device such as a cassette player, CD player, or VCR.; or a personal computer
		microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
7	USB 2.0 connectors (6)	Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
		printers and keyboards.
8	video connector	Plug the cable from your VGA-compatible monitor into the blue connector.
		NOTE: If you purchased an optional graphics card, this connector will be covered by
		a cap. Connect your monitor to the connector on the graphics card. Do not remove
		the cap.
		NOTE: If you are using a graphics card that supports dual monitors, use the y-cable
		that came with your computer.
9	serial connector	Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. The default
		designations are COM1 for serial connector 1 and COM2 for serial connector 2.

For more information, see your online User’s Guide.

16 Quick Reference Guide

Small Form Factor Computer — Front View

1

2

3

4

5

					6
	11	10	9	8	7
1	USB 2.0 connectors (2)		Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
			joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see your online User’s Guide for
			more information about 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.
2	power button		Press to turn on the computer.
			NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not turn off the computer by pressing the
			power button. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown. See "Before You
			Begin" on page 25 for more information.
			NOTICE: If your operating system has ACPI enabled, when you press the
			power button the computer will perform an operating system shutdown.
3	Dell badge		Can be rotated to match the orientation of your computer. To rotate, place fingers
			around the outside of the badge, press firmly, and turn the badge. You can also
			rotate the badge using the slot provided near the bottom of the badge.
4	LAN indicator light		Indicates that a LAN (local area network) connection is established.
5	diagnostic lights		Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem based on the
			diagnostic code. For more information, see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 50.
6	hard drive activity light		This light flickers when the hard drive is being accessed.

Quick Reference Guide		17

7	power light		The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different
			operating 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 mode.
			• Blinking or solid amber — See your online User’s Guide.
			To exit from a power-saving mode, 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 modes and exiting from a power-saving mode, see
			your online User’s Guide.
			See "System Lights" on page 49 for a description of light codes that can help you
			troubleshoot problems with your computer.
8	headphone connector		Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most kinds of speakers.
9	microphone connector		Use the microphone connector to attach a microphone.
10	3.5-inch drive bay		Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional media card reader.
11	5.25-inch drive bay		Can contain an optical drive. Insert a CD or DVD (if supported) into this drive.
Small Form Factor Computer — Back View
	1	2	3	4	5

6

18 Quick Reference Guide

1	card slots	Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express cards.
2	back-panel connectors	Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connectors (see "Small
		Form Factor Computer — Back-Panel Connectors" on page 19).
3	power connector	Insert the power cable.
4	voltage selection switch	Your computer is equipped with a manual voltage-selection switch.
		To help avoid damaging a computer with a manual voltage selection switch, set
		the switch for the voltage that most closely matches the AC power available in
		your location.
		NOTICE: The voltage selection switch must be set to the 115-V position even
		though the AC power available in Japan is 100 V.
		Also, ensure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to
		operate with the AC power available in your location.
5	padlock ring	Insert a padlock to lock the computer cover.
6	cover release latch	Allows you to open the computer cover.

Small Form Factor Computer — Back-Panel Connectors

	1	2	3	4
				5
				6
9	8			7

Quick Reference Guide		19

1	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.
		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 your online User’s Guide.
2	link integrity light	• 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 1-Gbps (or 1000-Mbps) network
		and the computer.
		• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.
3	network adapter	To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a
	connector	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
		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.
		On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card.
		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.
4	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.
5	line-out connector	Use the green line-out connector (available on computers with integrated sound)
		to attach most speakers with integrated amplifiers.
6	line-in/microphone	Use the blue and pink line-in/microphone connector (available on computers with
	connector	integrated sound) to attach a record/playback device such as a cassette player, CD
		player, or VCR; or a personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into
		a sound or telephony program.
7	USB 2.0 connectors (6)	Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
		printers and keyboards.

20 Quick Reference Guide

8	video connector	Plug the cable from your VGA-compatible monitor into the blue connector.
		NOTE: If you purchased an optional graphics card, this connector will be covered by
		a cap. Connect your monitor to the connector on the graphics card. Do not remove
		the cap.
		NOTE: If you are using a graphics card that supports dual monitors, use the y-cable
		that came with your computer.
9	serial connector	Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. The default
		designations are COM1 for serial connector 1 and COM2 for serial connector 2.

For more information, see your online User’s Guide.

Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer — Front View

1						2			3	4							5

	9	8	7	6
1	USB connectors (2)	Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
		joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see your online User’s Guide for
		more information about 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.
2	headphone connector	Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most kinds of speakers.
3	microphone connector	Use the microphone connector to attach a microphone.

Quick Reference Guide		21

4	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 mode.
		• Blinking or solid yellow — See your online User’s Guide.
		To exit from a power-saving mode, 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 modes and exiting from a power-saving mode, see
		your online User’s Guide.
		See "System Lights" on page 49 for a description of light codes that can help you
		troubleshoot problems with your computer.
5	power button	Press this button to turn on the computer.
		NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not turn off the computer by pressing the
		power button. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown. See "Before You
		Begin" on page 25 for more information.
6	vents	The vents help prevent your computer from overheating. To ensure proper
		ventilation, do not block these cooling vents.
7	module bay	Install a D-module optical drive, second hard drive, or floppy drive in the module
		bay.
8	hard-drive access light	The hard-drive access light is on when the computer reads data from or writes data
		to the hard drive. The light might also be on when devices such as your CD player
		are operating.
9	vents	The vents help prevent your computer from overheating. To ensure proper
		ventilation, do not block these cooling vents.

Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer — Side View

1

1	vents	The vents located on each side of the computer help prevent your computer from
		overheating. To ensure proper ventilation, do not block these cooling vents.

22 Quick Reference Guide

Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer — Back View

1	2				3

	5	4
1	diagnostic lights	See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 50 for a description of light codes
		that can help you troubleshoot problems with your computer.
2	computer cover release knob	Rotate this knob in a clockwise direction to remove the cover.
3	back-panel connectors	The connectors for your computer (see "Ultra-Small Form Factor
		Computer — Back-Panel Connectors" on page 23).
4	power connector	Insert the power cable.
5	vents	The vents help prevent your computer from overheating. To ensure
		proper ventilation, do not block these cooling vents.

Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer — Back-Panel Connectors

1 2 3 4

					5
					6
	11	10	9	8	7
1	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.

Quick Reference Guide		23

2	link integrity light	• 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 (1-Gbps) network and the
		computer.
		• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network or the
		network controller is turned off in system setup.
3	network adapter	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 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.
		On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card.
		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.
4	network activity light	The amber light flashes 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.

5line-out connector

6line-in/ microphone connector

Use the green line-out connector to attach an amplified speaker set.

Use the blue and pink line-in/ microphone connector to attach a record/playback device such as a cassette player, CD player, or VCR.; or a personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

7	USB connectors (5)	Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
		printers and keyboards.
8	serial connector	Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial connector.
9	video connector	If you have a DVI-compatible monitor, plug the cable from your monitor into the white
		connector on the back panel.
		If you have a VGA monitor, see "Connecting a VGA Monitor" in your computer User’s
		Guide.
10	power connector	The connector for the power adapter.
11	diagnostic lights	See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 50 for a description of light codes that can help you
		troubleshoot problems with your computer.

Removing the Computer Cover

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.

24 Quick Reference Guide

Before You Begin

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off your computer.

1Shut down the operating system:

a Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then click Turn Off Computer.

b In the Turn off computer window, click Turn off.

The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.

2Ensure 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.

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help ensure your own personal safety.

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

CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.

NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.

NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.

1 Turn off your computer.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

2Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.

3Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.

4If applicable, remove the computer stand (for instructions, see the documentation that came with the stand).

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

Quick Reference Guide		25

5Remove the computer cover:

•Remove the mini tower computer cover (see "Mini Tower Computer" on page 26).

•Remove the desktop computer cover (see "Desktop Computer" on page 27).

•Remove the small form factor computer cover (see "Small Form Factor Computer" on page 28).

•Remove the ultra-small form factor computer cover (see "Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer" on page 30).

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.

Mini Tower Computer

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 computer cover.

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 25.

2Lay the computer on its side as shown in the illustration.

3Locate the cover release latch shown in the illustration. Then, slide the release latch back as you lift the cover.

4Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up using the hinge tabs as leverage points.

5Remove the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside on a soft nonabrasive surface.

CAUTION: Graphic card heatsinks may become very hot during normal operation. Ensure that a graphic card heatsink has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

26 Quick Reference Guide

1

2

3

1 security cable slot

2 cover release latch

3 padlock ring

Desktop Computer

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 computer cover.

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 25.

2If you have installed a padlock through the padlock ring on the back panel, remove the padlock.

Quick Reference Guide		27

3Locate the cover release latch shown in the illustration. Then, slide the release latch back as you lift the cover.

4Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up using the hinge tabs as leverage points.

5Remove the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside on a soft nonabrasive surface.

CAUTION: Graphic card heatsinks may become very hot during normal operation. Ensure that a graphic card heatsink has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

1

2

3

1 security cable slot

2 cover release latch

3 padlock ring

Small Form Factor Computer

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 computer cover.

28 Quick Reference Guide

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 25.

2If you have installed a padlock through the padlock ring on the back panel, remove the padlock.

3Locate the cover release latch shown in the illustration. Then, slide the release latch back as you lift the cover.

4Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up using the bottom hinges as leverage points.

5Remove the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside on a soft nonabrasive surface.

CAUTION: Graphic card heatsinks may become very hot during normal operation. Ensure that a graphic card heatsink has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

	1
3	2

1 security cable slot

2 cover release latch

3 computer cover

Quick Reference Guide		29

Ultra-Small Form Factor Computer

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 computer cover.

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 25.

NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.

2If applicable, remove the cable cover.

a If a security device is installed in the security cable slot, remove the device.

1

1 release button

bPress on the release button, grasp the cable cover, and slide the cover to the left until it stops, and then lift the cable cover up and away.

3Remove the computer cover:

a Rotate the cover release knob in a clockwise direction, as shown in the illustration.

b Slide the computer cover forward by 1 cm (½ inch), or until it stops, and then raise the cover.

30 Quick Reference Guide