Dell OptiPlex GX280 User Manual
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
Small Form-Factor Computer
Small Desktop Computer
Desktop Computer
Small Mini-Tower Computer
Mini-Tower Computer
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
Small Form-Factor
Computer
Documentation for Your
Computer
Finding Information
Specifications
Cleaning Your Computer
About Your Computer
Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand
Advanced Features
LegacySelect Technology Control
Manageability
Security
Password Protection
System Setup
Booting to a USB Device
Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing CMOS Settings
Hyper-Threading
Power Management
Adding and Removing Parts
Before You Begin
Opening the Computer Cover
Battery
Chassis Intrusion Switch
Drives
I/O Panel
Memory
PCI and PCI Express Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Power Supply
Processor
System Board
Closing the Computer Cover
Computer and Software Problems
Troubleshooting Tools and Utilities
Solving Problems
Reinstalling Drivers and the Operating System
Getting Help
Additional Information
Microsoft® Windows® XP Features
Glossary
Warranty
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary."
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft
®
Windows® operating systems are
not applicable.
The Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD), operating system media, and Quick Reference Guides are optional, and as such
may not ship with all computers.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, OptiPlex, Inspiron, Dimension, Latitude, Dell Precision , DellNet, TravelLite, Dell OpenManage,
PowerVault, Axim, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerApp are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of
Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows NT, MS- DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; IBM and OS/2 are registered
trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation; NetWare and Novell are registered trademarks of Novell, Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark
owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Inc. under license. ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Models: DHP, DHS, DCNE, DHM, and DCSM
September 2005 Y2952 Rev. A05
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
Small Desktop Computer
Documentation for Your
Computer
Finding Information
Specifications
Cleaning Your Computer
About Your Computer
Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand
Advanced Features
LegacySelect Technology Control
Manageability
Security
Password Protection
System Setup
Booting to a USB Device
Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing CMOS Settings
Hyper-Threading
Power Management
Adding and Removing Parts
Before You Begin
Opening the Computer Cover
Battery
Chassis Intrusion Switch
Drives
I/O Panel
Memory
PCI and PCI Express Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Power Supply
Processor
System Board
Closing the Computer Cover
Computer and Software Problems
Troubleshooting Tools and Utilities
Solving Problems
Reinstalling Drivers and the Operating System
Getting Help
Additional Information
Microsoft® Windows® XP Features
Glossary
Warranty
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary."
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft
®
Windows® operating systems are
not applicable.
The Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD), operating system media, and Quick Reference Guides are optional, and as such
may not ship with all computers.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, OptiPlex, Inspiron, Dimension, Latitude, Dell Precision , DellNet, TravelLite, Dell OpenManage,
PowerVault, Axim, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerApp are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of
Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows NT, MS- DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; IBM and OS/2 are registered
trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation; NetWare and Novell are registered trademarks of Novell, Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark
owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Inc. under license. ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Models: DHP, DHS, DCNE, DHM, and DCSM
September 2005 Y2952 Rev. A05
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
Desktop Computer
Documentation for Your
Computer
Finding Information
Specifications
Cleaning Your Computer
About Your Computer
Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Advanced Features
LegacySelect Technology Control
Manageability
Security
Password Protection
System Setup
Booting to a USB Device
Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing CMOS Settings
Hyper-Threading
Power Management
Adding and Removing Parts
Before You Begin
Opening the Computer Cover
Battery
Chassis Intrusion Switch
Drives
I/O Panel
Memory
PCI and PCI Express Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Power Supply
Processor
System Board
Closing the Computer Cover
Computer and Software Problems
Troubleshooting Tools and Utilities
Solving Problems
Reinstalling Drivers and the Operating System
Getting Help
Additional Information
Microsoft® Windows® XP Features
Glossary
Warranty
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary."
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft
®
Windows® operating systems are
not applicable.
The Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD), operating system media, and Quick Reference Guides are optional, and as such
may not ship with all computers.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2004 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, OptiPlex, Inspiron, Dimension, Latitude, Dell Precision , DellNet, TravelLite, Dell OpenManage,
PowerVault, Axim, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerApp are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of
Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows NT, MS- DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; IBM and OS/2 are registered
trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation; NetWare and Novell are registered trademarks of Novell, Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark
owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Inc. under license. ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Models: DHP, DHS, DCNE, DHM, and DCSM
September 2005 Y2952 Rev. A05
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
Small Mini-Tower
Computer
Documentation for Your
Computer
Finding Information
Specifications
Cleaning Your Computer
About Your Computer
Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Front-Panel Door and Hinge Arms
Advanced Features
LegacySelect Technology Control
Manageability
Security
Password Protection
System Setup
Booting to a USB Device
Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing CMOS Settings
Hyper-Threading
Power Management
Adding and Removing Parts
Before You Begin
Opening the Computer Cover
Battery
Chassis Intrusion Switch
Drives
I/O Panel
Memory
PCI and PCI Express Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Power Supply
Processor
System Board
Closing the Computer Cover
Computer and Software Problems
Troubleshooting Tools and Utilities
Solving Problems
Reinstalling Drivers and the Operating System
Getting Help
Additional Information
Microsoft® Windows® XP Features
Glossary
Warranty
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary."
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft
®
Windows® operating systems are
not applicable.
The Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD), operating system media, and Quick Reference Guides are optional, and as such
may not ship with all computers.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, OptiPlex, Inspiron, Dimension, Latitude, Dell Precision , DellNet, TravelLite, Dell OpenManage,
PowerVault, Axim, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerApp are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of
Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows NT, MS- DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; IBM and OS/2 are registered
trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation; NetWare and Novell are registered trademarks of Novell, Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark
owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Inc. under license. ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Models: DHP, DHS, DCNE, DHM, and DCSM
September 2005 Y2952 Rev. A05
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
Mini-Tower Computer
Documentation for Your
Computer
Finding Information
Specifications
Cleaning Your Computer
About Your Computer
Front View
Back View
Inside Your Computer
System Board Components
Advanced Features
LegacySelect Technology Control
Manageability
Security
Password Protection
System Setup
Booting to a USB Device
Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing CMOS Settings
Hyper-Threading
Power Management
Adding and Removing Parts
Before You Begin
Opening the Computer Cover
Battery
Chassis Intrusion Switch
Drives
I/O Panel
Memory
PCI and PCI Express Cards and Serial Port Adapters
Power Supply
Processor
System Board
Closing the Computer Cover
Computer and Software Problems
Troubleshooting Tools and Utilities
Solving Problems
Reinstalling Drivers and the Operating System
Getting Help
Additional Information
Microsoft® Windows® XP Features
Glossary
Warranty
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary."
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft
®
Windows® operating systems are
not applicable.
The Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD), operating system media, and Quick Reference Guides are optional, and as such
may not ship with all computers.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, OptiPlex, Inspiron, Dimension, Latitude, Dell Precision , DellNet, TravelLite, Dell OpenManage,
PowerVault, Axim, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerApp are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of
Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows NT, MS- DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; IBM and OS/2 are registered
trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation; NetWare and Novell are registered trademarks of Novell, Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark
owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Inc. under license. ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Models: DHP, DHS, DCNE, DHM, and DCSM
September 2005 Y2952 Rev. A05
Back to Contents Page
Finding Information
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here
A diagnostic program
for my computer
Drivers for my
computer
My computer
documentation
My device
documentation
How to set up my
computer
Troubleshooting
information
How to run the Dell
Diagnostics
Error codes and
diagnostic lights
Tools and utilities
Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD)
Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the CD to
reinstall drivers, run the Dell Diagnostics, 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: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with all computers.
Quick Reference Guide
NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at support.dell.com.
NOTE: The Quick Reference Guide is optional and may not ship
with all computers.
Warranty information
Safety instructions
Regulatory information
Ergonomics
information
End User License
Agreement
How to remove and
replace parts
Technical
specifications
How to configure
Dell™ Product Information Guide
User's Guide
Microsoft® Windows® XP Help and Support Center
system settings
1. Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
How to troubleshoot
and solve problems
Operating system
updates and patches
2. Click User's and system guides and click User's guides.
Desktop System Software (DSS)
The DSS is located on the Drivers and Utilities CD and on the Dell Support website.
Service Tag and
Express Service Code
Microsoft Windows
License Label
Latest drivers for my
computer
Answers to technical
service and support
questions
Online discussions
with other users and
technical support
Documentation for my
computer
Service call status and
support history
Top technical issues
for my computer
Frequently asked
questions
File downloads
Details on my
computer
configuration
Service contract for
my computer
Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License
These labels are located on your computer.
Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use
support.dell.com or contact technical support.
Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when
contacting technical support. The Express Service Code is not
available in all countries.
Use the number on the Microsoft Windows License Label if you reinstall your operating
system.
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
The Dell Support website provides several online tools, including:
Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online
courses
Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers
Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as memory, the hard drive,
and the operating system
Customer Care — Contact information, order status, warranty, and repair information
Downloads — Drivers, patches, and software updates
Reference — Computer documentation, product specifications, and white papers
Dell Premier Support Website — premiersupport.dell.com
The Dell Premier Support website is customized for corporate, government, and education
customers. This website may not be available in all regions.
How to use Windows
XP
Documentation for my
computer
Documentation for
devices (such as a
modem)
How to reinstall my
operating system
Windows Help and Support Center
1. Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
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.
Operating System CD
The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall
your operating system, use the Operating System CD. See "
Microsoft Windows XP" for reinstallation instructions.
After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities CD
to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.
Your operating system
license label is located on your computer.
Reinstalling
NOTE: The operating system media is optional and may not ship with all computers
Back to Contents Page
Back to Contents Page
Yellow — A good connection exists
Specifications
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
Microprocessor
Microprocessor type
Level 1 (L1) cache 32 KB
Level 2 (L2) cache 1 MB pipelined-burst, eight-way set
Memory
Type 400 & 533 MHz DDR2 SDRAM
Memory connectors small form-factor computer: 2
Memory capacities 128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB, or 1 GB non-
Minimum memory dual-channel: 256 MB
Maximum memory small form-factor computer: 2 GB
Intel® Pentium
future Dell-supported upgrades.
associative, write-back SRAM
small desktop computer: 4
desktop computer: 4
small mini-tower computer: 4
mini-tower computer: 4
ECC
single-channel: 128 MB
small desktop computer: 4 GB
desktop computer: 4 GB
small mini-tower computer: 4 GB
mini-tower computer: 4 GB
®
4; design provides for
BIOS address F0000h
Computer Information
Chipset Intel Grantsdale
Data bus width 64 bits
Address bus width 32 bits
DMA channels eight
Interrupt levels 24
BIOS chip (NVRAM) 4-Mb
Memory speed 400 & 533 MHz
NIC integrated network interface with ASF
1.03 support as defined by DMTF.
Capable of 10/100/1000 communication:
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.
between a 1 Gb (or 1000-Mbps)
network and the computer.
Off — The computer is not
detecting a physical connection to
the network.
Video
Type integrated Intel Extreme Graphics or PCI
Express x16 DVI video card
Audio
Type AC97, Sound Blaster emulation
Stereo conversion 16-bit analog-to-digital; 20-bit digital-to-
analog
Controllers
Drives small form-factor: one serial ATA
controller supporting one device and one
parallel Ultra ATA/100 IDE supporting two
devices per channel with one channel
small desktop: one serial ATA controllers
supporting one device each and one
parallel Ultra ATA/100 IDE supporting two
devices per channel with one channel
desktop: two serial ATA controllers
supporting one device each and one
parallel Ultra ATA/100 IDE supporting two
devices per channel with one channel.
small mini-tower: two serial ATA
controllers supporting one device each
and one parallel Ultra ATA/100 IDE
supporting two devices per channel with
one channel
mini-Tower: two serial ATA controllers
supporting one device each and one
parallel Ultra ATA/100 IDE supporting two
devices per channel with one channel
Expansion Bus
Bus type PCI 2.2
SATA 1.0a
USB 2.0
PCI Express 1.0a
Bus speed PCI: 33 MHz
SATA: 1.5 Gbps
USB: 480 Mbps
PCI Express x1: 5 Gbps
PCI Express x16: 80 Gbps
Small Form-Factor computer low-profile cards supported
PCI
connector one
connector size 120 pins
connector data width (maximum) 32 bits
PCI Express
connector one x16
connector size 164 pins
connector data width (maximum) 16 PCI Express lanes
Small Desktop computer half-length cards supported
PCI
connectors one or two (depending on purchase)
connector size 120 pins
connector data width (maximum) 32 bits
PCI Express
connector one x16 and an optional x1
connector size 120 pins (x16) and an optional 36 pins
(x1)
connector data width (maximum) 16 PCI Express lanes (x16) and an
optional one PCI Express lane (x1)
Desktop computer half-height cards supported
half-length, full-height cards supported
with optional with card cage
PCI
connectors two (without card cage)
two (with card cage)
connector size 120 pins
connector data width
(maximum)
PCI Express
connectors one x16
connector size 120 pins (x16)
connector data width 16 PCI Express lanes (x16)
Small Mini-Tower full-height cards supported
PCI
connectors three
connector size 120 pins
connector data width (maximum) 32 bits
PCI Express
connector one x1 and one x16
32 bits
connector size 36 pins (x1) and 120 pins (x16)
connector data width (maximum) one PCI Express lane (x1) and 16 PCI
Express lanes (x16)
Mini-Tower full-height cards supported
PCI
connectors two
connector size 120 pins
connector data width
(maximum)
PCI Express
connectors one x1 and one x16
connector size 36 pins (x1) and 120 pins (x16)
32 bits
connector date width
(maximum)
Drives
Externally accessible:
Small Form-Factor computer one bay for a slimline floppy drive
Small Desktop computer one 3.5-inch bay
Desktop computer one 3.5-inch drive
Small Mini-Tower computer two 3.5-inch drive bays
Mini-Tower computer one 3.5-inch drive bay
Internally accessible:
Small Form-Factor computer one bay for a 1-inch-high hard drive
Small Desktop computer one bay for a 1-inch-high hard drive
one PCI Express lane (x1) and 16 PCI
Express lanes (x16)
one bay for a slimline CD/DVD drive
one 5.25-inch bay
one bay for CD/DVD or optional second
Hard Drive
two 5.25-inch drive bays
two 5.25-inch drive bays
Desktop computer one bay for a 1-inch-high hard drive
Small Mini-Tower computer two bays for 1-inch high hard drives
Mini-Tower computer two bays for 1-inch high hard drives
Connectors
External connectors:
Serial 9-pin connector; 16550C-compatible
Parallel 25-hole connector (bidirectional)
Video 15-hole connector
Network adapter RJ45 connector
Optional PS/2 with secondary serial
port adapter
USB two front-panel and six back-panel USB
Audio three connectors for line-in, line-out, and
small form-factor computer: one 6-pin
mini-DIN with a Y-adapter
small desktop, small mini-tower, desktop,
and mini-tower: two 6-pin mini-DINs
2.0–compliant connectors
microphone; one front-panel connector
for headphones
System board connectors:
Primary IDE drive 40-pin connector
Serial ATA small form-factor computer: one 7-pin
Floppy drive 34-pin connector
Serial 12-pin connector for optional second
Fan 5-pin connector
PCI 2.2 120-pin connector
CD drive audio interface 4-pin connector
Front audio 10-pin connector (For the optional audio
Front panel 40-pin connector
Key Combinations
<Ctrl><Alt><Del> If running Microsoft® Windows® XP,
connector
small desktop computer: one 7-pin
connectors
desktop computer: two 7-pin connectors
small mini-tower: two 7-pin connectors
mini-tower: two 7-pin connectors
serial port card
customer kit)
brings up the Windows Security window.
If in MS-DOS® mode, restarts (reboots)
the computer
<F2> or <Ctrl><Alt><Enter> starts embedded system setup (during
start-up only)
<Ctrl><Alt><b> automatically starts the computer from
the network environment specified by the
remote boot environment (PXE) rather
than from one of the devices in the
system setup Boot Sequence option
(during start-up only)
<F12> or <Ctrl><Alt><F8> displays a boot device menu that allows
the user to enter a device for a single
boot (during start-up only) as well as
options to run hard-drive and system
diagnostics
Controls and Lights
Power control push button
Power light green light—blinking green in sleep state;
solid green for power-on state
amber light—blinking amber indicates a
problem with an installed device; solid
amber indicates an internal power
problem (see
Power Problems)
Hard-drive access light green
Link integrity light (on integrated network
adapter)
Activity light (on integrated network
adapter)
Diagnostic lights small form-factor, small desktop, and
green light for 10-Mb operation; orange
light for 100-Mb operation; yellow light
for a 1000-Mb (1-Gb) operation
yellow blinking light
small mini-tower computers: four lights
on the back panel
desktop and mini-towercomputers: four
lights on the front panel
Standby power light AUX_PWR on the system board
Power
DC power supply:
Wattage small form-factor computer: 160 W
small desktop computer: 210 W
desktop computer: 280 W
small mini-tower computer with processor
speeds of 3.2 GHz or lower: 250 W
small mini-tower computer with processor
speeds of 3.4 GHz or higher: 305 W
mini-tower computer: 305 W
Heat dissipation small form-factor computer: 546 BTU/hr
small desktop computer: 717 BTU/hr
desktop computer: 150W max
small mini-tower computer with processor
speeds of 3.2 GHz or lower: 853 BTU/hr
small mini-tower computer with processor
speeds of 3.4 GHz or higher: 1041 BTU/hr
mini-tower computer: 150W max
Voltage fixed-voltage power supply—110 V at
50/60 Hz
manual selection and auto-sensing power
supplies—90 to 135 V at 50/60 Hz; 180 to
265 V at 50/60 Hz; 100 V at 50/60 Hz for
Japanese computers
Backup battery 3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell
Physical
Small Form-Factor computer:
Height 9.0 cm (3.57 inches)
Width 31.9 cm (12.54 inches)
Depth 35.4 cm (13.93 inches)
Weight 6 kg (14 lbs)
Small Desktop computer:
Height 10.6 cm (4.2 inches)
Width 38.9 cm (15.3 inches)
Depth 43.2 cm (17 inches)
Weight 9.9 kg (22 lbs)
Desktop computer
Height 11.4 cm (4.5 inches)
Width 39.9 cm (15.7 inches)
Depth 35.3 cm (13.9) inches
Weight 10.4 kg (23 lbs)
Small Mini-Tower computer:
Height 42.5 cm (16.7 inches)
Width 18.1 cm (7.1 inches)
Depth 44.7 cm (17.6 inches)
Weight 12.7 kg (28 lbs)
Mini-Tower computer
Height 41.4 cm (16.3 inches)
Width 18.5 cm (7.3 inches)
Depth 43.9 cm (17.3 inches)
Weight 12.34 kg (27.2 lbs)
Environmental
Temperature:
Operating 10° to 35°C (50° to 95°F)
NOTE: At 35°C (95°F), the maximum
operating altitude is 914 m (3000 ft).
Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Relative humidity 20% to 80% (noncondensing)
Maximum vibration:
Operating 0.25 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 0.5 octave/min
Storage 0.5 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1 octave/min
Maximum shock:
Operating bottom half-sine pulse with a change in
Storage 27-G faired square wave with a velocity
Altitude:
Operating –15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)
Storage –15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)
Back to Contents Page
velocity of 20 inches/sec (50.8 cm/sec)
change of 200 inches/sec (508 cm/sec)
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Cleaning Your Computer
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in
the Product Information Guide.
Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor
CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your
computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain
flammable substances.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust from the slots and holes on your computer and
from between the keys on the keyboard.
NOTICE: Do not wipe the display screen with any soap or alcohol solution. Doing so may damage the antiglare
coating.
To clean your monitor screen, lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth with water. If possible, use a special screen-cleaning
tissue or solution suitable for the monitor's antistatic coating.
Wipe the keyboard, computer, and plastic part of the monitor with a soft cleaning cloth moistened with a solution of
three parts water and one part dish washing detergent.
Do not soak the cloth or let water drip inside your computer or keyboard.
Mouse
If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse. To clean a non-optical mouse:
1. Turn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counterclockwise, and then remove the ball.
2. Wipe the ball with a clean, lint-free cloth.
3. Blow carefully into the ball cage to dislodge dust and lint.
4. If the rollers inside the ball cage are dirty, clean the rollers with a cotton swab moistened lightly with isopropyl alcohol.
5. Re-center the rollers in their channels if they are misaligned. Ensure that fluff from the swab is not left on the rollers.
6. Replace the ball and retainer ring, and turn the retainer ring clockwise until it clicks into place.
Floppy Drive
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally mis-align the heads, which prevents
the drive from operating.
Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain pretreated floppy disks to remove
contaminants that accumulate during normal operation.
CDs and DVDs
NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions that come with
the compressed air. Never touch the lens in the drive.
If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try cleaning the discs.
1. Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.
NOTICE: To prevent damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.
2. With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line from the center to
the outer edge of the disc.
For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also purchase commercial
products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust, fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs
are safe to use on DVDs.
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Dell OpenManage IT Assistant
Advanced Features
Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX280 Systems User's Guide
LegacySelect Technology Control
Manageability
Security
Password Protection
System Setup
Booting to a USB Device
Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing CMOS Settings
Hyper-Threading
Power Management
LegacySelect Technology Control
LegacySelect technology control offers legacy-full, legacy-reduced, or legacy-free solutions based on common platforms,
hard-drive images, and help desk procedures. Control is provided to the administrator through system setup, Dell
OpenManage™ IT Assistant, or Dell™ custom factory integration.
LegacySelect allows administrators to electronically activate or deactivate connectors and media devices that include serial
and USB connectors, a parallel connector, a floppy drive, PCI slots, and a PS/2 mouse. Connectors and media devices that are
deactivated make resources available. You must restart the computer to effect the changes.
Manageability
Alert Standard Format
ASF is a DMTF management standard that specifies "pre-operating system" or "operating system-absent" alerting techniques.
The standard is designed to generate an alert on potential security and fault conditions when the operating system is in a
sleep state or the system is powered down. ASF is designed to supersede previous operating system-absent alerting
technologies.
Your computer supports the following ASF version 1.03 alerts and remote capabilities:
Alert Description
Chassis: Chassis Intrusion – Physical Security
Violation/Chassis Intrusion – Physical Security
Violation Event Cleared
CPU: Emergency Shutdown Event
Cooling Device: Generic Critical Fan
Failure/Generic Critical Fan Failure Cleared
Temperature: Generic Critical Temperature
Problem/Generic Critical Temperature Problem
Cleared
Battery Low
For more information about Dell's ASF implementation, see the ASF User's Guide and the ASF Administrator's Guide, which
are available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
The computer chassis with the chassis intrusion feature
installed and enabled has been opened or the chassis
intrusion alert has been cleared.
The processor temperature is too hot and the power supply
has shut down.
The fan speed (rpm) is out of limits or the fan speed (rpm)
problem has been resolved.
The computer temperature is out of limits or the computer
temperature problem has been resolved.
The system battery has reached a voltage of 2.2V or lower.
IT Assistant configures, manages, and monitors computers and other devices on a corporate network. IT Assistant manages
to select Reset, and then choose On, On-Silent, or Off.
assets, configurations, events (alerts), and security for computers equipped with industry-standard management software. It
supports instrumentation that conforms to SNMP, DMI, and CIM industry standards.
Dell OpenManage Client instrumentation, which is based on DMI and CIM, is available for your computer. For information on
IT Assistant, see the Dell OpenManage IT Assistant User's Guide available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation
Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation is software that enables remote management programs such as IT Assistant to do
the following:
Access information about your computer, such as how many processors it has and what operating system it is running
Monitor the status of your computer, such as listening for thermal alerts from temperature probes or hard-drive failure
alerts from storage devices
Change the state of your computer, such as updating its BIOS or shutting it down remotely
A managed system is one that has Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation set up on a network that uses IT Assistant. For
information about Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation, see the Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation User's Guide
available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
Security
Chassis Intrusion Detection
NOTE: When the admin password is enabled, you must know the admin password before you can reset the Chassis
Intrusion setting.
This feature, if installed and enabled, detects that the chassis was opened and alerts the user. To change the Chassis
Intrusion setting:
Enter system setup.
1.
2. Press the down-arrow keys to move to the System Security option.
3. Press <Enter> to access the System Security option's pop-up menu.
4. Press the down-arrow key to move to the Chassis Intrusion setting.
5. Press <Enter> to select an option setting.
6. Press <Enter> again after you update the option setting.
7. Exit and save system setup.
Option Settings
On — If the computer cover is opened, the setting changes to Detected, and the following alert message displays
during the boot routine at the next computer start-up:
Alert! Cover was previously removed.
To reset the Detected setting,
enter system setup. In the Chassis Intrusion option, press the left- or right-arrow key
On-Silent (default) — If the computer cover is opened, the setting changes to Detected. No alert message appears
during the boot sequence at the next computer start-up.
Off — No intrusion monitoring occurs and no messages appear.
Padlock Ring and Security Cable Slot
Use one of the following methods to secure your computer:
Use a padlock alone or a padlock and looped security cable with the padlock ring.
A padlock alone prevents the computer from being opened.
A security cable looped around a stationary object is used in conjunction with a padlock to prevent unauthorized
movement of the computer.
Attach a commercially available antitheft device to the security cable slot on the back of the computer.
NOTE: Before you purchase an antitheft device, make sure that it works with the security cable slot on your computer.
Antitheft devices usually include a segment of metal-stranded cable with an attached locking device and key. The
documentation that comes with the device contains instructions for installing it.
Password Protection
NOTICE: Although passwords provide security for the data on your computer, they are not foolproof. If your data
requires more security, it is your responsibility to obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as data
encryption programs.
System Password
NOTICE: If you leave your computer running and unattended without having a system password assigned, or if you
leave your computer unlocked so that someone can disable the password by changing a jumper setting, anyone can
access the data stored on your hard drive.
Option Settings
You cannot change or enter a new system password if either of the following two options is displayed:
Set — A system password is assigned.
Disabled — The system password is disabled by a jumper setting on the system board.
You can only assign a system password when the following option is displayed:
Not Set — No system password is assigned and the password jumper on the system board is in the enabled position
(the default).
Assigning a System Password
To escape from the field without assigning a system password, press <Tab> or the <Shift><Tab> key combination to move
to another field, or press <Esc> at any time before you complete step 5.
1. Enter system setup and verify that Password Status is set to Unlocked.
2. Highlight System Password, and then press the left- or right-arrow key.
The option heading changes to Enter Password, followed by an empty 32-character field in square brackets.
3. Type your new system password.
You can use up to 32 characters. To erase a character when entering your password, press <Backspace> or the leftarrow key. The password is not case sensitive.
Certain key combinations are not valid. If you enter one of these combinations, the speaker emits a beep.
As you press each character key (or the spacebar for a blank space), a placeholder appears in the field.
4. Press <Enter>.
If the new system password is less than 32 characters, the whole field fills with placeholders. Then the option heading
changes to Verify Password, followed by another empty 32-character field in square brackets.
5. To confirm your password, type it a second time and press <Enter>.
The password setting changes to Set.
6. Exit system setup.
Password protection takes effect when you restart the computer.
Typing Your System Password
When you start or restart your computer, one of the following prompts appears on the screen.
If Password Status is set to Unlocked:
Type in the password and
- press <ENTER> to leave password security enabled.
- press <CTRL><ENTER> to disable password security.
Enter password:
If Password Status is set to Locked:
Type the password and press <Enter>.
If you have assigned an admin password, the computer accepts your admin password as an alternate system password.
If you type a wrong or incomplete system password, the following message appears on the screen:
** Incorrect password. **
If you again type an incorrect or incomplete system password, the same message appears on the screen. The third and
subsequent times you type an incorrect or incomplete system password, the computer displays the following message:
** Incorrect password. **
Number of unsuccessful password attempts: 3
System halted! Must power down.
Even after your computer is turned off and on, the previous message is displayed each time you type an incorrect or
incomplete system password.
NOTE: You can use Password Status in conjunction with System Password and Admin Password to further
protect your computer from unauthorized changes.
Deleting or Changing an Existing System Password
1. Enter system setup and verify that Password Status is set to Unlocked.
2. Restart your computer.
3. When prompted, type the system password.
4. Press <Ctrl><Enter> to disable the existing system password.
5. Confirm that Not Set is displayed for the System Password option.
If Not Set is displayed, the system password is deleted. If Not Set is not displayed, press <Alt><b> to restart the
computer, and then repeat
step 3 through step 5.
To assign a new password, follow the procedure in "
6. Exit system setup.
Assigning a System Password."
Admin Password
Option Settings
You cannot change or enter a new admin password if either of the following two options is displayed:
Set — An admin password is assigned.
Disabled — The admin password is disabled by a jumper setting on the system board.
You can only assign an admin password when the following option is displayed:
Not Set — No admin password is assigned and the password jumper on the system board is in the enabled position
(the default).
Assigning an Admin Password
The admin password can be the same as the system password.
NOTE: If the two passwords are different, the admin password can be used as an alternate system password.
However, the system password cannot be used in place of the admin password.
Enter system setup and verify that Admin Password is set to Not Set.
1.
2. Highlight Admin Password and press the left- or right-arrow key.
The computer prompts you to type and verify the password. If a character is not permitted, the computer emits a
beep.
3. Type and then verify the password.
After you verify the password, the Admin Password setting changes to Set. The next time you enter system setup,
the computer prompts you for the admin password.
4. Exit system setup.
A change to Admin Password becomes effective immediately (no need to restart the computer).
Operating Your Computer With an Admin Password Enabled
When you enter system setup, the Admin Password option is highlighted, prompting you to type the password.
If you do not type the correct password, the computer lets you view, but not modify, system setup options.
NOTE: You can use Password Status in conjunction with Admin Password to protect the system password from
unauthorized changes.
Deleting or Changing an Existing Admin Password
To change an existing admin password, you must know the admin password.
Enter system setup.
1.
2. Type the admin password at the prompt.
3. Highlight Admin Password and press the left- or right-arrow key to delete the existing admin password.
The setting changes to Not Set.
To assign a new admin password, perform the steps in "
4. Exit system setup.
Assigning an Admin Password."
Disabling a Forgotten Password and Setting a New Password
To reset system and/or admin passwords, see "Clearing Forgotten Passwords."
System Setup
Overview
Use system setup as follows:
To change the system configuration information after you add, change, or remove any hardware in your computer
To set or change a user-selectable option such as the user password
To read the current amount of memory or set the type of hard drive installed
Before you use system setup, it is recommended that you write down the system setup screen information for future
reference.
Entering System Setup
1. Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2. When the blue DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows®
desktop. Then
shut down your computer and try again.
System Setup Screens
The system setup screen displays current or changeable configuration information for your computer. Information on the
screen is divided into three areas: the options list, active options field, and key functions.
Options List —
This field appears
on the left side of
the system setup
window. The field
is a scrollable list
containing
features that
define the
configuration of
your computer,
including
installed
hardware, power
conservation,
and security
features.
Scroll up and
down the list by
using the up and
down arrow keys.
As an option is
highlighted, the
Option Field
displays more
information
about that option
and the option's
current and
available
settings.
Option
Field —
This field
contains
information
about each
option. In
this field
you can
view your
current
settings
and make
changes to
your
settings.
Use the
right and
left arrow
keys to
highlight
an option.
Press
<Enter> to
make that
selection
active.
Key
Functions
— This
field
appears
below the
Option
Field and
lists keys
and their
functions
within the
active
system
setup field.
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