Dell OptiPlex DCNE Reference Manual

Dell™ OptiPlex™ 760

Setup and Quick Reference Guide

This guide provides a features overview, specifications, and quick setup,

software, and troubleshooting information for your computer. For more

information about your operating system, devices, and technologies, see

the Dell Technology Guide at support.dell.com.

Models DCSM, DCNE, DCCY, and DCTR

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

your computer.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data

and tells you how to avoid the problem.

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

or death.

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to
Microsoft

Macrovision Product Notice

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by
method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights
owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this
copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision
Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only
unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering
or disassembly is prohibited.

®

Windows® operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2008 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of these materials in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc.
is strictly forbidden.

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, OptiPlex, and DellConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.;

Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license;
Intel, Core, Celeron, and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other

countries; Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and the Windows Vista start button logo are either
trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries.

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

Models DCSM, DCNE, DCCY, and DCTR

September 2008 P/N H698D Rev. A00

Contents

1 About Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Desktop — Front View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Desktop — Back View

Desktop — Back Panel Connectors

Mini Tower — Front View

Mini Tower — Back View

Mini Tower — Back Panel Connectors

Small Form Factor — Front View

Small Form Factor — Back View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

. . . . . . . . . . . . 9

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

. . . . . . . . . 12

. . . . . . . . . . . . 13

. . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Small Form Factor — Back Panel Connectors

Ultra Small Form Factor — Front View

Ultra Small Form Factor — Back View

. . . . . . . . . 15

. . . . . . . . . 15

. . . . . 14

Ultra Small Form Factor — Back Panel
Connectors

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Contents 3

2 Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Quick Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Connecting the AC Power Adapter (Ultra Small
Form Factor Only)

Ultra Small Form Factor Cable Cover
(Optional)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

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

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

Connecting to the Internet

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

®

Microsoft
System

Microsoft Windows

Windows Vista® Operating

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

®

XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

. . . . . . . . 26

. . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . 30

3 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

4 Troubleshooting

Using the Hardware Troubleshooter. . . . . . . . . . . 45

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

4 Contents

Tips

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Power Problems

Memory Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

Dell Technical Update Service

Dell Diagnostics

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

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

. . . . . . . . . . 48

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

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

5 Reinstalling Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Identifying Drivers

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

Using Dell Factory Image Restore

Using the Operating System Media

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

. . . . . . . . . . 54

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

®

Windows® System Restore . . . 57

. . . . . . . . . 58

. . . . . . . . 60

6 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

7 Getting Help

Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Technical Support and Customer Service

DellConnect™

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

. . . . . 66

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

Online Services

AutoTech Service

Automated Order-Status Service

Problems With Your Order

Product Information

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Before You Call

Contacting Dell

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . 67

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

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

. . . . . 68

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

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

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Contents 5

6 Contents

About Your Computer

1

2

4

6

5

7

3

8

9

10

11

Desktop — Front View

1 optical drive 2 optical-drive eject button

3 USB 2.0 connectors (2) 4 hard-drive activity light

5 power button, power light 6 diagnostic lights (4)

7 network-connectivity light 8 microphone connector

9 headphone connector 10 optional floppy drive eject button

11 floppy drive or Media Card

Reader (optional)

About Your Computer 7

Desktop — Back View

1

5

6

2

3

4

1 expansion-card slots (3) 2 air vent

3 cover release latch 4 padlock rings

5 power connector 6 back-panel connectors

8 About Your Computer

Desktop — Back Panel Connectors

1

2

8

7

3

4

5

6

10

11 9

1 parallel connector 2 serial connector

3 link-integrity light 4 network connector

5 network-activity light 6 line-out connector

7 line-in connector 8 USB 2.0 connectors (6)

9 VGA video connector 10 eSATA connector

11 DisplayPort connector

About Your Computer 9

Mini Tower — Front View

1

2

4

6

5

7

10

3

9

8

11

12

1 optical drive 2 optical-drive eject button

3 optional optical drive bay 4 floppy drive or Media Card Reader

5 optional floppy drive eject button 6 USB 2.0 connectors (2)

7 hard-drive activity light 8 power button, power light

9 diagnostic lights (4) 10 headphone connector

11 microphone connector 12 network-connectivity light

(optional)

10 About Your Computer

Mini Tower — Back View

5

6

2

1

3

4

1 power connector 2 back-panel connectors

3 expansion-card slots (4) 4 air vent

5 padlock rings 6 cover release latch

About Your Computer 11

Mini Tower — Back Panel Connectors

1

2

8

7

3

4

5

6

10

11 9

1 parallel connector 2 serial connector

3 link-integrity light 4 network connector

5 network-activity light 6 line-out connector

7 line-in connector 8 USB 2.0 connectors (6)

9 VGA video connector 10 eSATA connector

11 DisplayPort connector

12 About Your Computer

Small Form Factor — Front View

1

2

4

6

7

8

3

9

10

11

5

1 optical drive 2 optical-drive eject button

3 USB 2.0 connectors (2) 4 network-connectivity light

5 diagnostic lights (4) 6 hard-drive activity light

7 power button, power light 8 microphone connector

9 headphone connector 10 optional floppy drive eject button

11 floppy drive or Media Card Reader

(optional)

About Your Computer 13

Small Form Factor — Back View

5

2

1

3

4

1

2

8

7

3

4

5

6

10

11 9

1 padlock rings 2 cover release latch

3 power connector 4 back-panel connectors

5 expansion-card slots (2)

Small Form Factor — Back Panel Connectors

1 parallel connector 2 serial connector

3 link-integrity light 4 network connector

5 network-activity light 6 line-out connector

7 line-in connector 8 USB 2.0 connectors (6)

9 VGA video connector 10 eSATA connector

11 DisplayPort connector

14 About Your Computer

Ultra Small Form Factor — Front View

1

2

4

6

5

7

8

3

9

1

6

3

2

5

4

1 USB 2.0 connectors (2) 2 microphone connector

3 hard drive activity light 4 power button, power light

5 air vents 6 optical-drive eject button

7 optical drive 8 headphone connector

9 air vents

Ultra Small Form Factor — Back View

1 diagnostic lights (4) 2 cover release knob

3 security cable slot 4 back-panel connectors

5 power connector 6 air vent

About Your Computer 15

Ultra Small Form Factor — Back Panel

1

2

8

7

3

4

5

6

10

11

9

Connectors

1 parallel connector 2 link-integrity light

3 network connector 4 network-activity light

5 line-out connector 6 line-in connector

7 USB 2.0 connectors (5) 8 serial connector

9 DVI video connector 10 power connector

11 diagnostic lights (4)

16 About Your Computer

Setting Up Your Computer

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

information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices
information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Quick Setup

NOTE: Some devices may not be included if you did not order them.

1

Connect the monitor using only one of the following cables or adapters:

• Blue VGA cable

• DisplayPort cable

• DisplayPort to DVI adapter

• White DVI cable

• Dual monitor Y-adapter cable

NOTE: The desktop, mini-tower, and small form factor computers natively support

either a VGA or a DisplayPort connection.

NOTE: The ultra small form factor computer natively supports a DVI-I connection

only.

Setting Up Your Computer 17

18 Setting Up Your Computer

Setting Up Your Computer 19

20 Setting Up Your Computer

2

Connect a USB device, such as a keyboard or mouse.

NOTICE: Ensure that you connect the network cable to the connector identified

with the icon shown in the following illustration.

3

Connect the network cable.

NOTICE: Ensure that you connect the modem to the connector identified with the

icon shown in the following illustration.

4

Connect the modem (optional).

Setting Up Your Computer 21

5

Connect the power cable(s).

NOTE: If you are using an ultra small form factor computer, see "Connecting

the AC Power Adapter (Ultra Small Form Factor Only)" on page 23.

22 Setting Up Your Computer

6

Press the power buttons on the monitor and the computer.

7

Connect to your network.

Connecting the AC Power Adapter (Ultra Small Form Factor Only)

1

Connect the AC power adapter to the power connector on the back of the
computer. Ensure that the latch clicks into place for a secure connection.

2

Connect one end of the AC power cable to the power adapter.

CAUTION: If your power adapter cable has a green

grounding wire, do not permit contact between the
green grounding wire and power leads because
electrical shock, fire, or damage to your computer
can occur.

3

If your AC power cable has a green grounding
wire for connection to an electrical outlet,
connect the metal grounding connector to the
grounding source (often a screw) on the outlet
(see the following illustration):

a

Loosen the grounding source.

b

Slide the metal grounding connector behind the grounding source,
and then tighten the grounding source.

Setting Up Your Computer 23

1 grounding source (screw)

1

2

2 metal ground connector

4

Connect the AC power cable to the power outlet.

The AC power adapter has a status light that is off when the adapter is not
plugged into the power outlet, and it is green or amber for the following
different states:

• green light — solid green indicates that the power adapter is
connected to an AC power outlet and to the computer.

• amber light — solid amber indicates that the power adapter is
connected to an AC power outlet but not to the computer. The
computer will not operate in this condition. Connect the AC power
adapter to the computer and/or reset the power adapter by
disconnecting and reconnecting the plug to the power outlet.

24 Setting Up Your Computer

Ultra Small Form Factor Cable Cover (Optional)

2

1

Attaching the Cable Cover

1

Ensure that all external device cables are threaded through the hole in the
cable cover.

2

Connect all device cables to the connectors on the back of the computer.

3

Hold the bottom of the cable cover to align the tabs with the slots on the
computer’s back panel.

4

Insert the tabs into the slots and slide the cover to align the end of the
cover with the end of the chassis (see the illustration) until the cable cover
is securely positioned.

5

Install a security device in the security cable slot (optional).

1 cable cover

2 security cable slot

Setting Up Your Computer 25

Removing the Cable Cover

1

1

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

1 release button

2

Slide the release button, grasp the cable cover, and slide the cover sideways
as shown until it stops, and then lift the cable cover up and away.

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

Installing your computer in an enclosure can restrict the airflow and impact
your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat. Follow the
guidelines below when installing your computer in an enclosure.

CAUTION: Before installing your computer in an enclosure, read the safety

instructions that shipped with your computer.

NOTICE: The operating temperature specifications indicated in this document

reflects the maximum ambient operating temperature. The room ambient
temperature needs to be a consideration when you install your computer in an
enclosure. For example, if the ambient room temperature is at 25°C (77°F),
depending on your computer’s specifications, you only have 5° to 10°C (9° to 18°F)
temperature margin before you reach your computer’s maximum operating
temperature. For details about your computer’s specifications, see "Specifications"
on page 35.

26 Setting Up Your Computer

• Leave a 10.2-cm (4-in) minimum clearance on all sides of the computer
that have air vents to permit the airflow required for proper ventilation.

• If your enclosure has doors, the doors need to be of a type that allows at
least a 30-percent airflow through the enclosure at the front and at the
back.

NOTICE: Do not install your computer in an enclosure that does not allow airflow.

Restricting the airflow impacts your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to
overheat.

• If your computer is installed in a corner on a desk or under a desk, leave at
least 5.1-cm (2-in) clearance from the back of the computer to the wall to
permit the airflow required for proper ventilation.

Setting Up Your Computer 27

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an
Internet service provider (ISP). If you are using a dial-up connection, connect
a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the
telephone wall connector before you set up your Internet connection. If you
are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem connection, contact your ISP or
cellular phone service for setup instructions.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

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

1

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

2

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

3

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an
Internet connection with a different ISP, perform the steps in the appropriate
section below.

28 Setting Up Your Computer

NOTE: If you cannot connect to the Internet, see the Dell Technology Guide. If you

have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage.
Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

NOTE: Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, consult the

Connect to the Internet wizard.

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating System

1

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

2

Click the Windows Vista Start button

3

4

Under

In the
or

Network and Internet,

Connect to the Internet

Dial-up

, depending on how you want to connect:

click

Connect to the Internet

window, click either

→

Control Panel.

Broadband (PPPoE)

.

•Choose

modem, or Bluetooth

• Chose

NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose

or contact your ISP.

5

Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information

Broadband

Dial-up

if you will use a dial-up modem or ISDN.

if you will use a DSL, satellite modem, cable TV

®

wireless technology connection.

provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

Microsoft Windows® XP

1

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

2

Click

3

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

• If you do not have an ISP, click

Start→

Internet Explorer→ Connect to the Internet

providers (ISPs)

.

Choose from a list of Internet service

.

• If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you

did not receive a setup CD, click

Set up my connection manually

.

• If you have a setup CD, click

4

Click

If you selected

Next

.

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

.

in step 3, continue to step 5.

Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

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

Setting Up Your Computer 29

5

Click the appropriate option under

Internet?

6

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

, and click

Next

.

How do you want to connect to the

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating System

1

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click

→

and settings

2

In the

3

Click

4

Follow the instructions provided on the screen by the Windows Easy
Transfer wizard.

User Account Control

Start a new transfer

Start Windows Easy Transfer.

dialog box, click

or

Continue a transfer in progress

Continue

Microsoft Windows® XP

Windows XP provides the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data
from a source computer to a new computer.

Transfer files

.

.

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

NOTE: You can transfer information from an old computer to a new computer by

directly connecting a serial cable to the input/output (I/O) ports of the two
computers.
For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers,
see Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #305621, titled How to Set Up a Direct Cable
Connection Between Two Computers in Windows XP. This information may not be
available in certain countries.

For transferring information to a new computer, you must run the Files and
Settings Transfer Wizard.

30 Setting Up Your Computer

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

NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System media. This media is optional

and may not be included with certain computers.

To prepare a new computer for the file transfer:

1

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

2

When the
click

3

On the

4

On the

Next

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

.

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

from the Windows XP CD

5

When the

Now go to your old computer

source computer. Do

not

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

screen, click

→

Next

.

screen appears, go to your old or

click

Next

at this time.

Start→

All Programs→

.

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

Next

.

I will use the wizard

To copy data from the old computer:

1

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

Operating System

media.

2

On the

additional tasks

3

Under

4

On the

5

On the

6

On the
transfer and click

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

.

What do you want to do?

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

What do you want to transfer?

Next

.

, click

Transfer files and settings→ Next

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

screen, select the items you want to

After the information has been copied, the

screen appears.

Finish

.

7

Phase

Click

To transfer data to the new computer:

1

2

On the

Next

On the

Now go to your old computer

.

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

chose for transferring your settings and files and click

screen, click

Old Computer→

Perform

Next

.

Completing the Collection

Next

.

.

The wizard applies the collected files and settings to your new computer.

3

On the

Finished

screen, click

Finished

, and restart the new computer.

Setting Up Your Computer 31

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

To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the Operating System
media, you must create a wizard disk that will allow you to create a backup
image file to removable media.

To create a wizard disk, use your new computer with Windows XP and
perform the following steps:

1

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

2

When the
click

3

On the

4

On the

Next

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

.

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

Wizard Disk in the following drive

5

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

6

When the disk creation completes and the

computer

message appears,

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

screen, click

→

Next.

Now go to your old

do not

click

Next

Start→

All Programs→

.

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

Next

.

I want to create a

.

7

Go to the old computer.

To copy data from the old computer:

1

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk, and click

2

In the

Open

field on the

Run

window, browse to the path for

(on the appropriate removable media) and click

3

4

5

On the

On the

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you

prefer.

6

On the
transfer and click

What do you want to transfer?

Next

.

screen, select the items you want to

After the information has been copied, the

screen appears.

Finish

.

7

Phase

Click

Start→

OK

.

welcome screen, click

Old Computer→

Run

.

fastwiz

Next

Next

.

Completing the Collection

.

32 Setting Up Your Computer

To transfer data to the new computer:

1

On the

Next

2

On the
chose for transferring your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

.

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

Next

. Follow the

instructions on the screen.

The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your
new computer.

When all of the settings and files have been applied, the

Finished

appears.

3

Click

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

document #154781 (What Are The Different Methods To Transfer Files From My Old

Computer To My New Dell™ Computer Using the Microsoft
Operating System?).

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

certain countries.

Finished

and restart the new computer.

®

Windows® XP

screen

Setting Up Your Computer 33

34 Setting Up Your Computer

Specifications

NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the

configuration of your computer, click Start→ Help and Support and select the
option to view information about your computer.

Processor

Processor type Intel

Level 2 (L2) cache at least 512 KB pipelined-burst, eight-way set

System Information

Chipset Intel Q43 Express chipset w/ICH10D

DMA channels eight

Interrupt levels 24

®

Core™2 Duo; FSB up to 1333 MHz

®

Intel Pentium

Intel Celeron

associative, writeback SRAM

Dual-Core; FSB up to 800 MHz

®

; FSB up to 800 MHz

BIOS chip (NVRAM) 32 Mb

Network adapter integrated network interface capable of 10/100/1000

Mbps communication

Memory

Type 667-MHz or 800-MHz DDR2 SDRAM;

non-ECC memory only

Memory connectors

mini tower, desktop, and
small form factor

ultra small form factor

four

two

Specifications 35

Memory (continued)

Memory capacities 512-MB, 1-GB, 2-GB, 3-GB, or 4-GB non-ECC

Minimum memory 512 MB

Maximum memory 4 GB

Video

Ty p e :

Integrated

Discrete

Intel integrated video

up to 256-MB video memory (shared) at total system
memory of greater than 512 MB

PCI Express x16 slot can support either a PCI Express
card or a DVI graphics card (for dual-monitor
support)

NOTE: The ultra small form factor computer supports

integrated video only.

Audio

Type ADI 1984A high definition audio

Expansion Bus

Bus type PCI 2.3

PCI Express 2.0

SATA 1.0A and 2.0

eSATA

USB 2.0

Bus speed PCI: 133 MB/s

PCI Express:

x1-slot bidirectional speed — 250 MB/s

x16-slot bidirectional speed — 8 GB/s

SATA: 1.5 Gbps and 3.0 Gbps

eSATA: 3.0 Gbps

USB: 480 Mbps

36 Specifications

Cards

PCI (without riser card)

mini tower

desktop

small form factor

PCI (with riser card)

desktop

PCI Express x1

mini tower

PCI Express x16 (without
riser card)

mini tower

desktop and small form
factor

PCI Express x16 (with riser
card)

two full height cards

two low profile cards

one half length card

up to two full height or half length cards

one low profile card

one full height card

one full height card

one low profile card

desktop computer

one full height card

NOTE: The PCI Express x16 slot is disabled when a display is connected to the built-in

DisplayPort connector on a desktop, mini tower, or small form factor.

Drives

Externally accessible:

5.25-inch drive bays

mini tower

desktop

5.25-inch slimline bay

small form factor

5.25-inch D-module bay

ultra small form factor

two

one

one

one

Specifications 37

Drives (continued)

3.5-inch drive bay

mini tower and desktop

3.5-inch slimline bay

small form factor

3.5-inch D-module bay

ultra small form factor

Internally accessible:

3.5-inch SATA drive bays

mini tower

desktop, small form factor, and
ultra small form factor

Available devices:

3.5-inch SATA hard drives

mini tower

desktop, small form factor, and
ultra small form

one

one

one

two

one

up to two

one

SATA DVD-ROM/ DVD+/-RW/
CD +/- RW drives

mini tower

desktop

small form factor

ultra small form factor

3.5-inch floppy drive or 19-in-1
Media Card Reader

mini tower

desktop

small form factor

ultra small form factor

up to two 5.25-inch drives

one 5.25-inch drive

one slimline drive

one D-module drive

one

one

one slimline drive

one D-module floppy drive

38 Specifications

Connectors

External connectors:

Audio

back panel

front panel

eSATA

Network adapter

Parallel

Serial

USB

front panel

back panel

two connectors for line-in/ microphone and
line-out

two front-panel connectors for headphones
and microphone

one 7-pin connector

NOTE: The ultra small form factor computer

does not have an eSATA connector.

one RJ45 connector

one 25-pin connector (bidirectional)

one 9-pin connector; 16550C-compatible

two

six

NOTE: The ultra small form factor has five USB

connectors on the back panel.

NOTE: All the USB connectors are USB 2.0

compatible.

Video

mini tower, desktop, and small
form factor

ultra small form factor

System board connectors:

PCI

mini tower and desktop
small form factor

connector size

connector data width
(maximum)

15-hole VGA connector

20-pin DisplayPort connector

28-pin DVI-I connector

two connectors
one connector

120 pins

32 bits

Specifications 39

Connectors (continued)

PCI Express x1

mini tower one connector

connector size

connector data width
(maximum)

PCI Express x16

mini tower, desktop, and small
form factor

connector size

connector data width
(maximum)

Serial ATA

mini tower

desktop and small form factor

ultra small form factor

connector size

Memory

36 pins

1 PCI Express lane

one connector

164 pins

16 PCI Express lanes

four connectors

two connectors

one connector

7-pin connector

mini tower, desktop, and small
form factor

ultra small form factor

connector size

Internal USB device

mini tower, desktop, and small
form factor

Floppy drive

mini tower and desktop

small form factor

40 Specifications

four connectors

two connectors

240 pins

one 10-pin connector (supports two USB
ports)

one 34-pin connector

one 26-pin slim connector

Connectors (continued)

Processor fan

mini tower, desktop, and small
form factor

ultra small form factor

Hard-drive fan

small form factor

ultra small form factor

Front panel control

Processor

Power 12V

Power

Controls and Lights

Front of computer:

Power button

Power light

one 5-pin connector

two 5-pin connectors

one 5-pin connector

one 3-pin slim connector

one 40-pin connector

one 775-pin connector

one 4-pin connector

one 24-pin connector

push button

green light — Blinking green in sleep state; solid
green for power-on state.

Drive activity light

Network connectivity light

amber light — The blinking amber indicates a
problem with the system board. A solid amber light
when the computer does not start indicates that the
system board cannot start initialization. This could be
a system board or a power supply problem (see "Power
Problems" on page 46).

green light — A blinking green light indicates that the
computer is reading data from or writing data to the
SATA hard drive or CD/DVD.

green light — A good connection exists between the
network and the computer.

off (no light) — The computer is not detecting a
physical connection to the network.

Specifications 41

Controls and Lights (continued)

Diagnostic lights

Back of the computer:

Link integrity light on
integrated network adapter

Network activity light on
integrated network adapter

Power

four lights

NOTE: For the ultra small form factor computer, the

diagnostic lights are on the back panel. See "Ultra Small
Form Factor — Back View" on page 15.

green light — A good 10 Mbps connection exists
between the network and the computer.

orange light — A good 100 Mbps connection exists
between the network and the computer.

yellow light — A good 1000 Mbps connection exists
between the network and the computer.

off (no light) — The computer is not detecting a
physical connection to the network.

yellow light —

network activity is present.

A blinking yellow light indicates that

DC power supply:

Wa t ta g e

mini tower

desktop

small form factor

ultra small form factor

Maximum heat dissipation
(MHD)

mini tower

desktop

small form factor

ultra small form factor

305W non-EPA; 255W EPA

255 W

235 W

220 W

1041 BTU/hr

955 BTU/hr

938 BTU/hr

751 BTU/hr

NOTE: Heat dissipation is calculated by using the power supply wattage rating.

42 Specifications

Power (continued)

Voltage (see the safety
information that shipped
with your computer for
important voltage setting
information)

mini tower

desktop

small form factor

ultra small form factor

Coin-cell battery 3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell

Physical

Height

mini tower

desktop

small form factor

ultra small form factor

Width

mini tower

desktop

115/230 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 3.6/1.8 A

115/230 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 4.0/2.0 A

115/230 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 3.5/1.8 A

12 VDC, 18 A

36.2 cm (14.2 inches)

11.4 cm (4.5 inches)

9.26 cm (3.65 inches)

26.4 cm (10.375 inches)

17.0 cm (6.7 inches)

39.9 cm (15.7 inches)

small form factor

ultra small form factor

Depth

mini tower

desktop

small form factor

ultra small form factor

31.37 cm (12.35 inches)

8.9 cm (3.5 inches)

43.5 cm (17.1 inches)

35.3 cm (13.9 inches)

34.03 cm (13.40 inches)

without cable cover — 25.3 cm (9.95 inches)

with standard cable cover — 33 cm (13 inches)

with extend cable cover — 36.1 cm (14.2 inches)

Specifications 43

Physical (continued)

Wei ght

mini tower

desktop

small form factor

ultra small form factor

Environmental

Temperature:

Operating

Storage

Relative humidity
(noncondensing)

12.7 kg (28.0 lb)

10.4 kg (23 lb)

7.4 kg (16.4 lb)

without cable cover — 4.5 kg (10 lb)

with standard cable cover — 4.9 kg (10.8 lb)

with extend cable cover — 4.9 kg (10.8 lb)

10° to 35°C (50° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

operating: 20% to 80% (maximum wet bulb
temperature: 29°C)

storage: 5% to 95% (maximum wet bulb temperature:
38°C

Maximum vibration:

Operating

Storage

Maximum shock:

Operating

Storage

Altitude:

Operating

Storage

Airborne contaminant level

5 to 350 Hz at 0.0002 G2/Hz

5 to 500 Hz at 0.001 to 0.01 G2/Hz

40 G +/- 5% with pulse duration of 2 msec +/- 10%
(equivalent to 20 in/sec [51 cm/sec])

105 G +/- 5% with pulse duration of 2 msec +/- 10%
(equivalent to 50 in/sec [127 cm/sec])

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

G2 or lower as defined by ISA-S71.04-1985

44 Specifications

Troubleshooting

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

information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices
information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

CAUTION: Always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

opening the cover.

NOTE: For detailed troubleshooting information, including responding to system

messages, see your Service Manual on support.dell.com.

Using the Hardware Troubleshooter

To start the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve hardware incompatibility:

Windows Vista

1

Click the Windows Vista Start button ,

2

Ty p e
<Enter> to start the search.

®

:

hardware troubleshooter

and click

in the search field and press

Help and Support.

3

In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and
follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.

Windows® XP:

1

Click

2

Ty p e
<Enter> to start the search.

3

In the

4

In the
the problem and click

Start→

hardware troubleshooter

Fix a Problem

Hardware Troubleshooter

Help and Support

section, click

Next

to follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.

.

Hardware Troubleshooter

list, select the option that best describes

in the search field and press

.

Troubleshooting 45

Tips

• If a device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.

• If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the
installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.

• If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message.
This message may help support personnel to diagnose and fix the
problem(s).

• If an error message occurs in a program, see the program documentation.

Power Problems

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

information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices
information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

F THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF — The computer is either turned off or is not

I

receiving power.

• Reseat the power cable in the power connector on the back of the
computer and the electrical outlet.

• Bypass power strips, power extension cables, and other power protection
devices to verify that the computer turns on properly.

• Ensure that any power strips being used are plugged into an electrical
outlet and are turned on.

• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another
device, such as a lamp.

• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely
connected to the system board.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS GREEN AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING —

• Ensure that the display is connected and powered on.

• If the display is connected and powered on, see (see

at support.dell.com

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING GREEN — The computer is in sleep mode.

).

your Service Manual

Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to
resume normal operation.

46 Troubleshooting

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER — The computer is receiving

electrical power, a device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

• Remove and then reinstall all memory modules.

• Remove and then reinstall any expansion cards, including graphics cards.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER — There is a power problem, a device

may be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

• Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system
board power connector (see

your Service Manual at support.dell.com

).

• Ensure that the main power cable and the front panel cable are securely
connected to the system board connector.

ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE — Some possible causes of interference are:

• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables

• Too many devices connected to the same power strip

• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Memory Problems

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

information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices
information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

F YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —

I

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

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

• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50).

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines.

Troubleshooting 47

• Ensure that the memory you are using is supported by your computer. For
more information about the type of memory supported by your computer,
see "Memory" on page 35.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50).

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up

ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO

THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

1

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to access the Task Manager,
and click the

2

Click to select the program that is no longer responding, and click

End Task

Applications

.

tab.

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Most software includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a

floppy disk, CD, or DVD.

HECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then

C

reinstall the program.

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —

Windows Vista:

1

Click

Start

→

Control Panel→ Programs→ Use an older program with

this version of Windows.

2

In the welcome screen, click

3

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Next

.

Windows XP:

The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an
environment similar to non-XP operating system environments.

48 Troubleshooting

1

Click

Wizard

2

Follow the instructions on the screen.

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a

Start→

→

Next

All Programs→ Accessories→ Program Compatibility

.

key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button
for at least 6 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your
computer.

Other software problems

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE

MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION —

• Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed
on your computer.

• Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements
needed to run the software. See the software documentation for
information.

• Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.

• Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.

• If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

Dell Technical Update Service

•

The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail
notification of software and hardware updates for your computer.
To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to
support.dell.com/technicalupdate.

Troubleshooting 49

Dell Diagnostics

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

information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices
information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

1

Ensure that the computer is connected to a working electrical outlet.

2

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

3

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

Diagnostics

from the start menu and press <Enter>.

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

wait until you see the Microsoft
your computer and try again.

NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has

been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media.

4

Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility

®

Windows® desktop, and then shut down

partition on your hard drive, and follow the instructions on the screen.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Dell Drivers and Utilities Media

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

computer.

1

Insert the

2

Shut down and restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities

media.

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

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

to wait until you see the Microsoft
computer and try again.

®

Windows® desktop; then, shut down your

NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the

next start-up, the computer starts according to the devices specified in the
system setup program.

3

When the boot device list appears, highlight
press <Enter>.

50 Troubleshooting

CD/DVD/CD-RW

and

4

Select the

Boot from CD-ROM

option from the menu that appears and

press <Enter>.

5

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

6

Select

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

from the numbered list.
If multiple versions are listed, select the version that is appropriate for
your computer.

7

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

appears, select the test that you

want to run, and follow the instructions on the screen.

Troubleshooting 51

52 Troubleshooting

Reinstalling Software

Drivers

Identifying Drivers

1

Locate the list of devices for your computer.

Microsoft® Windows Vista®:

a

Click the Windows Vista Start button™

Computer

b

Click

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to continue.

Microsoft Windows® XP:

a

Click

.

Properties→ Device Manager

Start→

Control Panel

.

.

,

and right-click

b

Under
click

c

In the

Device Manager

2

Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow
circle with a [

If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to
reinstall the driver or install a new driver (see "Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 54).

Pick a Category

System

System Properties

.

.

!]

) on the device icon.

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

, and

Hardware

Reinstalling Software 53

tab, and click

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and

Utilities media provide approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers

obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Returning to a Previous Device Driver Version

Windows Vista:

1

Click the Windows Vista Start button

2

Click

3

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Properties

4

Click the

Properties→ Device Manager

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to enter the Device Manager.

.

.

Drivers

tab→ Roll Back Driver

Windows XP:

,

and right-click

.

Computer

.

1

Click

2

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Properties

3

Click the

Start→

.

Drivers

My Computer→ Properties→ Hardware→ Device Manager

tab→

Roll Back Driver.

.

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, use System Restore
(see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 56) to return your computer
to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.

Using the Drivers and Utilities Media

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see "Restoring Your
Operating System" on page 56) does not resolve the problem, reinstall the
driver from your Drivers and Utilities media.

With the Windows desktop displayed, insert your

1

media

If this is your first time using the

.

Drivers and Utilities media, go to step 2.

Drivers and Utilities

If not, go to step 5.

54 Reinstalling Software

2

When the

Drivers and Utilities media installation program starts, follow

the prompts on the screen.

NOTE: In most cases, the Drivers and Utilities program starts running

automatically. If it does not, start Windows Explorer, click your media drive
directory to display the media contents, and then double-click the
autorcd.exe file.

3

When the

Drivers and Utilities

4

When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the

InstallShield Wizard Complete

media and click

Finish

window appears, remove the

to restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities

media.

5

At the

Welcome Dell System Owner

screen, click

Next

.

The drivers that are used by your computer are automatically displayed in

My Drivers—The ResourceCD has identified these components in

the

your system

6

Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on

window.

the screen.

If a particular driver is not listed, then either that driver is not required by
your operating system, or you must find the drivers that came with the
specific device.

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous
section:

Microsoft Windows Vista:

1

Click the Windows Vista Start button

2

Click

3

Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver
(for example,

4

Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.

Properties→ Device Manager

NOTE: The User Account Control window appears. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to enter the Device Manager.

Audio

or

Video

).

.

,

and right-click

Computer

.

5

Click the

software

Driver

.

tab→

Update Driver→ Browse my computer for driver

Reinstalling Software 55

6

Click
the driver files.

7

Click the name of the driver→ OK→ Next

8

Click

Microsoft Windows XP:

1

Click the

2

Double click the

3

Click

4

Click the + symbol next to device for which you are installing the driver
(for example,

5

Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.

6

Click the

location(Advanced)

Browse

Finish

Device Manager

NOTE: If you are an administrator on the computer, Device Manager lets you

proceed; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager.

and browse to the location to which you previously copied

.

and restart your computer.

Start

→ Settings → Control Panel.

Audio

Driver

System

→

Update Driver→ Install from a list or specific

icon and then click the

.

or

Video

and then click

).

Next

Hardware

.

tab.

7

Click
the driver files.

8

Click the name of the driver→ OK→ Next

9

Click

Browse

Finish

and browse to the location to which you previously copied

.

and restart your computer.

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

• Microsoft Windows System Restore returns your computer to an earlier
operating state without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first
solution for restoring your operating system and preserving data files.

• Dell Factory Image Restore (available in Windows Vista) returns your hard
drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer.
The program permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes
any programs installed after you received the computer.

• If you received the
use it to restore your operating system. However, using the

System

media also deletes all data on the hard drive.

Operating System

media with your computer, you can

Operating

56 Reinstalling Software

Using Microsoft® Windows® System Restore

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default

view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows
Classic view.

Starting System Restore

Windows Vista:

1

Click

2

In the Start Search box, type

3

Click

Windows XP:

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.

Start

.

System Restore

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to continue the desired action.

Next

and follow the remaining prompts on the screen.

and press <Enter>.

1

Click

Restore

2

Click either

point

3

Click

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.

Start→

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→

.

Restore my computer to an earlier time

.

Next

and follow the remaining on-screen prompts.

System

or

Create a restore

Windows Vista:

1

Click

2

In the Start Search box, type

3

Click

Start

.

System Restore

Undo my last restoration

and click

Next

and press <Enter>.

.

Reinstalling Software 57

Windows XP:

1

2

Click

Restore

Click

Start→

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→

.

Undo my last restoration

and click

Next

System

.

Using Dell Factory Image Restore

NOTICE: Using Dell Factory Image Restore permanently deletes all data (for

example, documents, spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, and music
files) on the hard drive and removes any programs or drivers installed after you
received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using these options.
Use Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your
operating system problem.

NOTE: Dell Factory Image Restore may not be available in certain countries or on

certain computers.

Dell Factory Image Restore (Windows Vista Only)

1

Turn on the computer.

2

When the Dell logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the Vista
Advanced Boot Options Window.

3

Select

Repair Your Computer

.

The System Recovery Options window appears.

4

Select a keyboard layout and click

5

To access the recovery options, log on as a local user.

6

To access the command prompt, type
name field, then click

7

Click

8

On the

The

NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with Factory Image Restore, click Cancel.

Dell Factory Image Restore

NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select Dell

Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore.

Dell Factory Image Restore

Confirm Data Deletion

OK

.

Next

.

administrator

.

welcome screen, click

screen appears.

in the User

Next.

58 Reinstalling Software

9

Click the checkbox to confirm that you want to continue reformatting the
hard drive and restoring the system software to the factory condition, then
click

Next

.

The restore process begins and may take 5 or more minutes to complete. A
message appears when the operating system and factory-installed
applications have been restored to factory condition.

10

Click

Dell PC Restore (Windows XP Only)

1

Turn on the computer.

Finish

to restart the computer.

During the boot process, a blue bar with www.dell.com appears at the top
of the screen.

2

Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press <Ctrl><F11>.

If you do not press <Ctrl><F11> in time, let the computer finish
starting, and then restart the computer again.

3

Click Restore and click Confirm.

The restore process takes approximately 6 to 10 minutes to complete.

4

When prompted, click Finish to restart the computer.

5

When prompted, click Yes.

The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original
operating state, the screens that appear are the same ones that appeared
the first time the computer was turned on.

6

Click Next.

The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts.

7

After the computer restarts, click OK.

Reinstalling Software 59

Windows XP: Removing Dell PC Restore:

NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC

Restore utility from your computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will
not be able to use it to restore your computer operating system.

It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your computer,
even to gain additional hard drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the
hard drive, you will not be able to return your computer operating system to
its original state.

1

Log on to the computer as a local administrator.

2

In Microsoft Windows Explorer, go to

3

Double-click the filename

NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer hard

drive, a message appears stating that the partition was not found. Click Quit;
there is no partition to delete.

4

Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.

5

Click Yes when a confirmation message appears.

DSRIRRemv2.exe

c:\dell\utilities\DSR

.

.

The PC Restore partition is deleted and the newly available disk space is
added.

6

Right-click

Local Disk (C)

in Windows Explorer, click

Properties

, and

verify that the additional disk space is available.

7

Click

Finish

to close the

PC Restore Removal

window and restart the

computer.

Using the Operating System Media

Before reinstalling the operating system, try the following:

• Windows Device Driver Rollback (see "Returning to a Previous Device
Driver Version" on page 54)

• Microsoft System Restore (see "Dell PC Restore (Windows XP Only)" on
page 59)

NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files from your primary

hard drive to another media. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary
hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.

60 Reinstalling Software

To reinstall Windows, you need the Dell™ Operating System media and the
Dell Drivers and Utilities media. The Dell

Drivers and Utilities

media

contains

drivers that were installed at the time you ordered your computer. Use the

Dell

Drivers and Utilities

NOTE: Depending on the region from which you ordered your computer, or

whether you requested the media, the Dell Drivers and Utilities media and Dell
Operating System media may not ship with your computer.

Reinstalling Windows

media

to load any required drivers.

The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete.

1

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

2

Insert the

3

If the

4

Restart the computer.

Operating System

media.

Install Windows

message appears, click

Exit

.

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

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

to wait until you see the Microsoft
computer and try again.

NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the

next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the
system setup program.

5

When the boot device list appears, highlight

®

Windows® desktop; then, shut down your

CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive

and press <Enter>.

6

Press any key to

Boot from CD-ROM

, and follow the instructions on the

screen to complete the installation.

7 Reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.

Reinstalling Software 61

62 Reinstalling Software

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.

Document/Media/Label Contents

Service Tag/Express Service Code

The Service Tag/Express Service Code is
located on your computer.

Drivers and Utilities Media

The Drivers and Utilities media is a CD
or DVD that may have shipped with your
computer.

• Use the Service Tag to identify your
computer when you use

support.dell.com

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

or contact support

NOTE: Your Service Tag/Express Service

Code is located on your computer.

• A diagnostic program for your computer

• Drivers for your computer

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates

can be found at support.dell.com.

• Desktop System Software (DSS)

• Readme files

NOTE: Readme files may be included on

your media to provide last-minute updates
about technical changes to your computer
or advanced technical-reference material
for technicians or experienced users.

Operating System Media

The Operating System media is a CD or
DVD that may have shipped with your
computer.

Reinstall your operating system

Finding Information 63

Document/Media/Label Contents

Safety, Regulatory, Warranty, and
Support Documentation

This type of information may have
shipped with your computer. For
additional safety best practices
information, see the Regulatory
Compliance Homepage at

www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Service Manual

The Service Manual for your computer
can be found at support.dell.com.

Dell Technology Guide

The Dell Technology Guide is available at

support.dell.com.

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

• How to remove and replace parts

• How to configure system settings

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

• About your operating system

• Using and maintaining devices

• Understanding technologies such as
RAID, Internet, Bluetooth
technology, e-mail, networking, and
more

®

wireless

Microsoft® Windows® License Label

Your Microsoft Windows License is
located on your computer.

• Provides your operating system product
key

64 Finding Information

Getting Help

Obtaining Assistance

CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer cover, first disconnect the

computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets. Follow the safety
instructions that shipped with your computer.

If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the
following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem:

1

See "When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test that
you want to run, and follow the instructions on the screen." on page 51 for
information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is
experiencing.

2

See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50 for procedures on how to run Dell
Diagnostics.

3

Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 70.

4

Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support
(

support.dell.com

procedures. See "Online Services" on page 66 for a more extensive list of
Dell Support online.

) for help with installation and troubleshooting

5

If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see "Contacting
Dell" on page 71.

NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone at or near the affected computer so that

the support staff can assist you with any necessary procedures.

NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.

When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express
Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you
do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder,
double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.

Getting Help 65

For instructions on using the Dell Support, see "Technical Support and
Customer Service" on page 66.

NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations outside

the continental U.S. Call your local Dell representative for information on availability.

Technical Support and Customer Service

Dell's support service is available to answer your questions about Dell™
hardware. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast,
accurate answers.

To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You Call" on page 69, and then
see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com.

DellConnect™

DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and
support associate to access your computer through a broadband connection,
diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision. For more
information, go to support.dell.com and click DellConnect.

Online Services

You can learn about Dell products and services at the following websites:

www.dell.com

www.dell.com/ap

www.dell.com/jp

www.euro.dell.com

www.dell.com/la

www.dell.ca

You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail
addresses:

• Dell Support websites:

support.dell.com

support.jp.dell.com

(Asian/Pacific countries only)

(Japan only)

(Europe only)

(Latin American and Caribbean countries)

(Canada only)

(Japan only)

support.euro.dell.com

66 Getting Help

(Europe only)

• Dell Support e-mail addresses:

[e-mail]

[e-mail]

[e-mail]

[e-mail]

• Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses:

[e-mail]

[e-mail]

• Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP):

ftp.dell.com –

your password

log in as user

(Latin America and Caribbean countries only)

(Asian/Pacific countries only)

(Asian/Pacific countries only)

(Canada only)

anonymous

, and use your e-mail address as

AutoTech Service

Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to
the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their laptop and
desktop computers.

When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the
subjects that correspond to your questions. For the telephone number to call
for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 71.

Automated Order-Status Service

To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go
to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A
recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on
your order. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting
Dell" on page 71.

Problems With Your Order

If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or
incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or
packing slip available when you call. For the telephone number to call for your
region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 71.

Getting Help 67

Product Information

If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if
you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For
the telephone number to call for your region or to speak to a sales specialist,
see "Contacting Dell" on page 71.

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:

1

Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it
clearly and prominently on the outside of the box.

For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on
page 71. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for
the return.

2

Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist"
on page 70), indicating the tests that you have run and any error messages
reported by the Dell Diagnostics (see "Contacting Dell" on page 71).

3

Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned
(power cables, software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if the return is
for credit.

4

Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing
materials.

You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for
insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during
shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted.

Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at
Dell’s receiving dock and returned to you.

68 Getting Help

Before You Call

NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s

automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also
be asked for your Service Tag (located on the back or bottom of your computer).

Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist"
on page 70). If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for
assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be
asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information
during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the
computer itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is available.

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

information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices
information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Getting Help 69

Diagnostics Checklist

Name:

Date:

Address:

Phone number:

Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer):

Express Service Code:

Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):

Operating system and version:

Devices:

Expansion cards:

Are you connected to a network? Yes No

Network, version, and network adapter:

Programs and versions:

See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the
system’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file.
Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell.

Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:

Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:

70 Getting Help

Contacting Dell

For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW-DELL (800-999-3355).

NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact

information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.

Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options.
Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be
available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or
customer service issues:

Visit

1

2

3

support.dell.com

Country/Region

Click
service or support link based on your need.

Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.

Contact Us

drop-down menu at the bottom of the page.

, and verify your country or region in the

on the left side of the page, and select the appropriate

Choose A

Getting Help 71

72 Getting Help

Index

C

connecting

Internet, 28
modem, 21
monitor, 17
network, 23
network cable, 21
power cables, 22

contacting Dell, 65, 71

D

Dell

contacting, 65, 71
software updates, 51
Support Utility, 51

diagnostics

Dell, 50

documentation, 63

Dell Technology Guide, 64
Service Manual, 64

drivers, 53

Drivers and Utilities media, 63
identifying, 53
reinstalling, 54
returning to a previous version, 54

Drivers and Utilities media, 54,

63

Dell Diagnostics, 50

E

technical support and customer

service, 66

Technical Update Service, 49

Dell Diagnostics, 50

starting from the Drivers and

Utilities media, 50

starting from your hard drive, 50

Dell Factory Image Restore, 58

Dell Technology Guide, 64

DellConnect, 66

Desktop System Software, 63

End User License Agreement

(EULA), 64

ergonomics information, 64

Express Service Code, 63

F

Files and Settings Transfer

Wizard, 30

finding information, 63

Index 73

I

P

Internet

connecting, 28
setting up, 28

L

license label, 64

M

media

Drivers and Utilities, 63
operating system, 63

memory

troubleshooting, 47

phone numbers, 71

power

power light conditions, 46
troubleshooting, 46

problems

restore to previous state, 57

R

regulatory information, 64

reinstalling

drivers and utilities, 54
software, 53

S

N

networks, 23

connecting, 23

O

operating system

Dell Factory Image Restore, 58
media, 60
reinstalling, 63
System Restore, 56

Operating System media, 63

operating system product key, 64

safety information, 64

Service Manual, 64

Service Tag, 63

setup

computer, 17
installing your computer in an

enclosure, 26
Internet, 28
quick setup, 17

software

problems, 48
reinstalling, 53
troubleshooting, 48-49
updates, 49

74 Index

specifications

power, 46
all, 35
audio, 36
connectors, 39
controls and lights, 41
drives, 37
environmental, 44
expansion bus, 36
memory, 35
physical, 43
power, 42
processor, 35
system information, 35
video, 36

support, 65

contacting Dell, 71
DellConnect, 66
online services, 66
regional, 66
technical support and customer

service, 66

support information, 64

power light conditions, 46

program crashes, 48

programs and Windows

compatibility, 48
restore to previous state, 56-57
software, 48-49
tips, 51

U

updates

software and hardware, 49

V

view

back, 8, 11, 14-15
back panel connectors, 9, 12, 14,

16
front, 10, 13, 15

System Restore, 56-57

T

Terms and Conditions, 64

transferring information to a new

computer, 30

troubleshooting, 45, 64

blue screen, 49
computer not responding, 48
Dell Diagnostics, 50
memory, 47

W

warranty information, 64

Windows License label, 64

Windows Vista

Dell Factory Image Restore, 58
Device Driver Rollback, 54
Program Compatibility wizard, 48
reinstalling, 63
returning to a previous device

driver version, 54
System Restore, 56-57

Index 75

Windows XP

Device Driver Rollback, 54
Files and Settings Transfer

Wizard, 3 0
reinstalling, 63
returning to a previous device

driver version, 54
setting up Internet

connection, 29
System Restore, 56-57

wizards

Files and Settings Transfer

Wizard, 3 0
Program Compatibility wizard, 48

76 Index