Dell OptiPlex X2956, OptiPlex SX280 Quick Reference Manual
Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX280
Quick Reference Guide
Model 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® Windows®
operating systems are not applicable.
____________________
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, OptiPlex, and the DELL logo are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model DCTR
April 2004 P/N X2956 Rev. A00
Contents
Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
About Your Computer
Front View
Side View
Back View
Cable Cover and Power Adapter
Setting Up Your Computer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Determining Placement and Orientation of the Computer
Installing a Device in the Module Bay
Connecting External Devices
Installing a Hard Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Attaching the Optional Cable Cover
Inside Your Computer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Removing the Computer Cover
Inside View
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Replacing the Computer Cover
Solving Problems
Dell Diagnostics
Power Supply Light
System Lights
Diagnostic Lights
Beep Codes
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Running the Dell™ IDE Hard Drive Diagnostics
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
®
Using Microsoft
Reinstalling Microsoft
Windows® XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
®
Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
. . . . . . . . 10
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
. . . . . . . . . . 27
Using the Drivers and Utilities CD
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Contents 3
4 Contents
Finding Information
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
• A diagnostic program for my computer
• Drivers for my computer
• My computer documentation
• My device documentation
• Desktop System Software (DSS)
• OS updates and patches
• Warranty information
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
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 latest drivers
and documentation
updates can be found at support.dell.com.
Desktop System Software (DSS)
Located on the Drivers and Utilities CD and at
support.dell.com.
Dell™ Product Information Guide
• How to remove and replace parts
• Technical specifications
• How to configure system settings
• How to troubleshoot and solve problems
NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at
support.dell.com.
Dell OptiPlex™ User’s Guide
Microsoft
1
2
The User’s Guide is also available on the
Utilities
®
Windows® XP Help and Support Center
Click the
Click
Start
button and click
User’s and system guides
CD
.
Help and Support.
and click
Quick Reference Guide 5
User’s guides
Drivers and
.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
• Service Tag and Express Service Code
• Microsoft Windows License Label
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• 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 Tag and Microsoft Windows License
These labels are located on your computer.
• Use the Service Tag to
identify your
computer when you
support.dell.com
use
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.
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support
site.
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
• 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
6 Quick Reference Guide
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.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here
• 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
2
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem
Start
button and click
Help and Support
.
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 your OptiPlex User’s Guide
for 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
product key
is located on
your Windows License
label attached to your
computer.
NOTE: The color of your CD varies based on the operating
system you ordered.
• Regulatory Model Number
• Chassis Type
DCTR
Ultra-Small Form-Factor (USFF) chassis
Quick Reference Guide 7
About Your Computer
NOTE: If you want to orient your computer under a desk top or on a wall surface, use the optional wall-
mount bracket. To order the bracket
User’s Guide.
NOTE: To ensure proper ventilation, do not block the cooling vents.
Front View
, contact Dell. For information on contacting Dell, see your online
microphone connector
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USB connectors (2)
headphone connector
hard-drive access light
Side View
vents (do not block)
power light
power button
module bay
vents (do not block)
8 Quick Reference Guide
mounting holes (2)
Back View
cover release knob
vents (do not block)
diagnostic lights
power connector
Cable Cover and Power Adapter
parallel
connector
video connector
link integrity light
network adapter
network activity
light
line-out connector
line-in connector
USB connectors (5)
serial connector
Quick Reference Guide 9
Setting Up Your Computer
NOTICE: When setting up your computer, secure all cables toward the back of your work area
to prevent the cables from being pulled, tangled, or stepped on.
NOTICE: To prevent the computer from overheating and shutting down, do not place the computer
in a poorly ventilated area.
NOTE: If you have ordered a computer without a hard drive, you can install a drive by using the drive
rails that are included inside your computer (see "Installing a Hard Drive" on page 15).
Determining Placement and Orientation of the Computer
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NOTICE: Do not place your monitor on top of the computer. Use a monitor stand.
NOTICE: Do not position your computer upside down.
10 Quick Reference Guide
NOTICE: In a high-vibration environment or when installing the computer under a surface or on a wall,
use the optional wall-mount bracket. To order the bracket, contact Dell. For information on contacting
Dell, see your online User’s Guide.
NOTE: To ensure proper ventilation, place the computer at least 5 cm (2 inches) from a vertical surface.
Do not place the computer in an enclosed environment without ventilation.
Installing a Device in the Module Bay
You can install a Dell™ portable device such as a floppy drive, CD/DVD drive, or second hard drive
in the module bay. Your Dell computer ships with either a CD/DVD drive or an airbay (filler blank)
installed in the module bay.
As a security feature, your computer is equipped with a module locking switch to secure a device in
the module bay. To access the switch, remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer
Cover" on page 16).
For added security, you may also secure a device in the module bay by using the device screw that
ships with your computer (packaged separately).
module locking switch
Quick Reference Guide 11
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Connecting External Devices
CAUTION: Before performing any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in
the Product Information Guide.
You must complete all steps to properly set up your computer. See the appropriate figures that
follow the instructions.
1
Use the USB connectors on the back of your computer to connect the keyboard and mouse.
2
Connect the modem or network cable.
1
device screw
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network wall jack, and then in
to the computer.
Insert the network cable, not the phone line, into the network connector. If you have
an optional modem, connect the phone line to the modem.
NOTICE: Do not connect a modem cable to the network adapter. Voltage from telephone
communications can cause damage to the network adapter.
Connect the monitor.
3
Align and gently insert the monitor cable to avoid bending connector pins. Tighten
the thumbscrews on the cable connectors.
NOTE: Some monitors have the video connector underneath the back of the screen.
See the documentation that came with your monitor for its connector locations.
Connect the speakers.
4
12 Quick Reference Guide
5
Connect power cables to the computer, monitor, and devices and insert the other ends of
the power cables to electrical outlets.
6
Press the power buttons to turn on the computer and monitor.
NOTE: Before you install any devices or software that did not ship with your computer, read the
documentation that came with the software or device, or contact the vendor to verify that the software
or device is compatible with your computer and operating system.
NOTE: Your computer may vary slightly from the following setup figures.
network connector
USB connector
Quick Reference Guide 13
Connecting a DVI Monitor
If you have a DVI-compatible monitor, plug the cable from your monitor in to the white DVI
display-connector on the computer back panel.
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Connecting a VGA Monitor
If you have a
VGA-compatible
monitor, use the adapter cable to connect the cable from your
monitor to the white DVI display-connector on the computer back panel.
14 Quick Reference Guide
Connecting Two Monitors
Use the adapter cable to connect both a VGA monitor and a DVI monitor to the white DVI displayconnector on the computer back panel.
Installing a Hard Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
1
If you are installing a new drive, attach the drive rails—located inside the cover—to the new
drive.
2
Attach the data and power cables to the hard drive connectors, being careful not to bend any
of the pins.
3
Slide the hard drive into the bracket.
Connecting the AC Adapter
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
Connect the power adapter to the connector on the back of the computer. In order for the
1
connection to be secure, verify that the latch engages completely. (An audible click will be
heard or felt.)
2
Connect a power cable to the
power adapter.
3
If your computer power-cable
connector has a grounding wire,
and you decide to connect it,
continue with step 4. If you decide
otherwise, go to step 5.
Quick Reference Guide 15
CAUTION: If your power cord or adapter provides a green ground wire for connection to an electrical
outlet, do not permit contact between the green ground wire and power leads because electrical
shock, fire, or damage to your computer can occur (see the following figure).
Connect the metal ground connector to the grounding source on
4
the outlet (see the following figure):
a
Loosen the grounding source.
b
Slide the metal ground connector behind the grounding source,
and then tighten the grounding source.
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5
Connect the AC power cable to the outlet.
Attaching the Optional Cable Cover
1
Ensure that all external device cables are
threaded through the hole in the cable
cover and connected to the computer back
panel.
2
Hold the bottom of the cable cover and align the four tabs with the four slots on the
computer back panel.
3
Insert the tabs into the slots and slide the
cable cover toward the diagnostic lights (see
the figure) until the cable cover is securely
positioned.
4
Install a security device in the security cable
slot (optional).
Inside Your Computer
Removing the Computer Cover
grounding
source
metal ground connector
cable cover
(optional)
security
cable slot
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To avoid electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the power adapter before
removing the cover.
16 Quick Reference Guide
CAUTION: To prevent static damage to
components inside your computer,
discharge static electricity from your body
before you touch any of your computer’s
electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on
the computer chassis.
Remove the computer cover.
1
a
Rotate the cover release knob in a
clockwise direction, as shown in
the figure.
b
Slide the computer cover forward
1 cm (0.5 inch), or until it stops,
and then raise the cover.
Inside View
processor heat-sink fan shroud
cover release knob
chassis intrusion switch
security cable slot
speaker (optional)
memory modules (2)
hard drive
Quick Reference Guide 17
Replacing the Computer Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
in the Product Information Guide.
Replace the cover:
1
a
Lower and align the cover with the metal
computer frame.
b
Slide the cover until you hear or feel it
click into place.
2
Connect your computer to its power adapter
and connect devices to electrical outlets, and
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turn them on.
If the chassis intrusion detector is set to
On
,
the following message appears on the screen
after the next computer start-up:
ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
3
Clear the chassis intrusion status by entering system setup and selecting
Intrusion Status
User’s Guide
NOTE: If an admin password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator
for information on resetting the chassis intrusion detector.
option. For information on the chassis intrusion detector, see your online
.
Clear
under the
Solving Problems
Dell provides a number of tools to help you if your computer does not perform as expected. For the
latest troubleshooting information available for your computer, see the Dell Support website at
support.dell.com
If computer problems occur that require help from Dell, write a detailed description of the error,
beep codes, or diagnostics light patterns; record your Express Service Code and Service Tag below;
and then contact Dell from the same location as your computer.
See "Finding Information" on page 5 for an example of the express service code and Service Tag.
Express Service Code:___________________________
.
Service Tag:___________________________
18 Quick Reference Guide
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Setting Up Your
Computer" on page 10 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical
assistance.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.
Enter system setup, review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device
you want to test is displayed in system setup and is active. For information on system setup, see
your online
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive (see "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From
Your Hard Drive" on page 19) or from the
—see "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD" on page 19).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
1
2
User’s Guide
.
Drivers and Utilities
CD (also known as the ResourceCD
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found,
see "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD" on page 19.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see
the Microsoft
information on shutting down your computer, see your online
3
When the boot device list appears, highlight
4
When the Dell Diagnostics
®
Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again. For
Main Menu
User’s Guide
Boot to Utility Partition
appears, select the test you want to run
.
and press <Enter>.
(see page 20).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD
1
Insert the
2
Shut down and restart the computer.
Drivers and Utilities
CD.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see
the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer
boots according to the devices specified in system setup.
Quick Reference Guide 19
3
When the boot device list appears, highlight
<Enter>.
4
Select
5
Select the
6
Ty p e 1 to start the ResourceCD menu.
7
Ty p e 2 to start the Dell Diagnostics.
8
Select
Onboard or USB CD-ROM Device
Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics
select the version appropriate for your computer.
9
When the Dell Diagnostics
page 20).
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Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
1
After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the
the option you want.
Option Function
Express Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and
Boot from CD-ROM
Main Menu
requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the
possibility of tracing the problem quickly.
Onboard or USB CD-ROM
from the CD boot menu.
option from the menu that appears.
from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed,
appears, select the test you want to run (see
Main Menu
screen appears, click the button for
and press
Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically takes 1 hour or more
and requires you to answer questions periodically.
Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you want to run.
Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows you to select a test
based on the symptom of the problem you are having.
2
If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a
description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow
the instructions on the screen.
If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell.
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell,
technical support will ask for your Service Tag.
If you run a test from the
3
Custom Test
or
Symptom Tree
option, click the applicable tab
described in the following table for more information.
Tab Function
Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered.
Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the problem
description.
20 Quick Reference Guide
Tab Function
Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for running the test.
Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from
system setup, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the
information in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The device list
may not display the names of all the components installed on your computer
or all devices attached to your computer.
Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test settings.
4
When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the
and Utilities
5
Close the test screen to return to the
and restart the computer, close the
CD, remove the CD.
Main Menu
Main Menu
screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics
screen.
Drivers
Quick Reference Guide 21
Power Supply Light
Light
State
Off No AC, or a fault
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Yellow AC present/no load Indicates that the power supply is attached to working
Green AC present/power to
PSU State Description Troubleshooting
Indicates that the power supply is not receiving power
condition occurred
load
from an electrical outlet, OR that the power supply
shut down due to a fault condition.
electrical outlet but not connected to the computer.
Indicates that the power supply is receiving power
from the electrical outlet and is properly connected to
the computer.
Ensure that the electrical outlet is
working by testing it with another
device, such as a lamp.
Verify that the AC power cable
connection is properly seated in the
power supply. If necessary, reseat the
AC cable connection at the power
supply.
Disconnect the AC power cable
from the power supply and the DC
cable from the computer for at least
10 seconds. Reattach the AC power
cable to the power supply. The light
on the power supply should turn
yellow. Reattach the DC cable to the
computer. The light on the power
supply should turn green.
Verify that the power supply is
completely plugged in to the
computer and the retention latch is
engaged. Reseat the connection if
necessary.
Check the power button light and
see "System Lights" on page 22.
System Lights
Your power button light and hard-drive light may indicate a computer problem.
Power Light Problem Description Suggested Resolution
Solid green power
light and no beep
code but the
computer locks up
during POST
22 Quick Reference Guide
An integrated system board device may
be faulty.
Check "Diagnostic Lights" on page 23 to see if the
specific problem is identified. If the problem is not
identified, contact Dell for technical assistance.
Power Light Problem Description Suggested Resolution
Solid green power
light and no beep
code and no video
during POST
Solid green and a
beep code during
POST
Solid yellow The Dell Diagnostics is running a test,
Blinks green several
times and then turns
off
Blinking green The computer is in the suspended state
The monitor may be faulty or
incorrectly installed.
A problem was detected while the BIOS
was executing.
or a device on the system board may be
faulty or incorrectly installed.
A configuration error exists. Check "Diagnostic Lights" on page 23 to see
®
(Microsoft
Windows XP).
Windows® 2000 and
Check "Diagnostic Lights" on page 23 to see
if the specific problem is identified.
See "Running the Dell™ IDE Hard Drive
Diagnostics" on page 27 for instructions on
diagnosing the beep code. Also, check the
diagnostic lights to see if the specific problem is
identified.
If the Dell Diagnostics is running, allow the testing
to complete.
Check "Diagnostic Lights" on page 23 to see
if the specific problem is identified.
If the computer does not boot, contact Dell for
technical assistance.
if the specific problem is identified.
Press the power button to wake the computer.
Solid green Power is on, and the computer is
operating normally.
No corrective action is required.
Diagnostic Lights
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "A," "B," "C," and "D" on
the back panel (see page 9). The lights can be yellow or green. When the computer starts normally,
the patterns or codes on the lights change as the boot process completes. If the POST portion of
system boot completes successfully, all four lights display solid green. If the computer malfunctions
during the POST process, the pattern displayed on the lights may help identify where in the
process the computer halted.
Quick Reference Guide 23
Light
Pattern
Problem Description Suggested Resolution
off
off
off
The computer is in a normal off
condition or a possible pre-BIOS failure
has occurred.
off
green
yellow
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yellow
A possible BIOS failure has occurred; the
computer is in the recovery mode.
yellow
yellow
A possible processor failure has occurred. Reinstall the processor and restart the computer.
green
yellow
yellow
Plug the computer into a working electrical
outlet and press the power button.
Run the BIOS Recovery utility, wait for recovery
completion, and then restart the computer.
For information on reinstalling the processor,
see your online User’s Guide.
green
green
Memory modules are detected, but a
memory failure has occurred.
yellow
yellow
yellow
green
A possible floppy or hard drive failure has
occurred.
green
yellow
24 Quick Reference Guide
• If you have one memory module installed,
reinstall it and restart the computer. For
information on reinstalling the memory
module, see your online
User’s Guide
.
• If you have two memory modules installed,
remove the modules, reinstall one module,
and then restart the computer. If the computer
starts normally, reinstall an additional module.
• If available, install properly working memory
of the same type into your computer.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell.
Reseat all power and data cables and restart
the computer.
Light
Pattern
Problem Description Suggested Resolution
green
green
green
yellow
yellow
yellow
yellow
green
yellow
green
yellow
green
A possible USB failure has occurred. Reinstall all USB devices, check cable
connections, and then restart the computer.
No memory modules are detected.
• If you have one memory module installed,
reinstall it and restart the computer. For
information on reinstalling the memory
module, see your online
User’s Guide
• If you have two memory modules installed,
remove the modules, reinstall one module,
and then restart the computer. If the computer
starts normally, reinstall an additional module.
• If available, install properly working memory
of the same type into your computer.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell.
Memory modules are detected, but a
memory configuration or compatibility
error exists.
• Ensure that no special memory module/memory
connector placement requirements exist. For
information on memory modules, see your
online
User’s Guide
.
• Verify that the memory modules that you are
installing are compatible with your computer.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell.
.
yellow
An error occurred prior to boot.
green
green
green
green
green
The computer is in a normal operating
condition after POST.
green
green
• Ensure that the cables are properly connected
to the system board from the hard drive, CD
drive, and DVD drive.
• Check the computer message that appears
on your monitor screen.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell.
None.
Quick Reference Guide 25
Beep Codes
Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or
problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies a problem. One possible beep code
(code 1-3-1) consists of one beep, a burst of three beeps, and then one beep. This beep code tells
you that the computer encountered a memory problem.
If your computer beeps during start-up:
1
Write down the beep code.
2
See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 19 to identify a more serious cause.
3
Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Code Cause Code Cause
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1-1-2 Microprocessor register failure 3-3-4 Video Memory Test failure
1-1-3 NVRAM read/write failure 3-4-1 Screen initialization failure
1-1-4 ROM BIOS checksum failure 3-4-2 Screen retrace failure
1-2-1 Programmable interval timer failure 3-4-3 Search for video ROM failure
1-2-2 DMA initialization failure 4-2-1 No timer tick
1-2-3 DMA page register read/write failure 4-2-2 Shutdown failure
1-3 Video Memory Test failure 4-2-3 Gate A20 failure
1-3-1 through
2-4-4
3-1-1 Slave DMA register failure 4-3-1 Memory failure above address
3-1-2 Master DMA register failure 4-3-3 Timer-chip counter 2 failure
3-1-3 Master interrupt mask register failure 4-3-4 Time-of-day clock stopped
3-1-4 Slave interrupt mask register failure 4-4-1 Serial or parallel port test failure
3-2-2 Interrupt vector loading failure 4-4-2 Failure to decompress code to
3-2-4 Keyboard Controller Test failure 4-4-3 Math-coprocessor test failure
3-3-1 NVRAM power loss 4-4-4 Cache test failure
3-3-2 Invalid NVRAM configuration
Memory not being properly identified or used 4-2-4 Unexpected interrupt in protected
mode
0FFFFh
shadowed memory
26 Quick Reference Guide
Running the Dell™ IDE Hard Drive Diagnostics
The Dell IDE Hard Drive Diagnostics is a utility that tests the hard drive to troubleshoot or
confirm a hard drive failure.
1
Turn on your computer (if your computer is already on, restart it).
2
When
<Ctrl><Alt><D>.
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
F2 = Setup
appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press
If a failure is reported, see "Hard Drive Problems" in your
User’s Guide
.
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly
configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility. In the
Microsoft
incompatibilities.
Windows XP
To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1
2
3
4
Windows 2000
To resolve incompatibilities using Device Manager:
1
®
Windows® 2000 operating system, you can also use Device Manager to resolve
Click the
Ty p e
Click
In the
computer
Click the
Start
button and click
hardware troubleshooter
Hardware Troubleshooter
Hardware Troubleshooter
, and click
Start
Next
.
button, point to
Help and Support
in the
list, click
Settings
in the
Search
Search Results
I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my
, and then click
.
field and click the arrow to start the search.
list.
Control Panel
.
2
In the
3
Click the
4
Click
5
Click
6
Double-click
Control Panel
Hardware
Device Manager
View
and click
Interrupt request (IRQ)
window, double-click
tab.
.
Resources by connection
Incorrectly configured devices are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (
device has been disabled.
.
System
.
.
!
) or a red X if the
Quick Reference Guide 27
7
Double-click any device marked with an exclamation point to display the
The
Device
reconfigured.
8
Reconfigure the devices or remove the devices from the Device Manager. See the
documentation that came with the device for information on configuring the device.
To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1
Click the
2
Click
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
troubleshooters
3
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computer
In the
Hardware Troubleshooter
Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return
your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the
hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating
state. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files
or recover them.
status area in the
Start
button and click
, and then click
and click
Next
.
Properties
Help
.
Hardware
list, click
Properties
window.
window reports the cards or devices that need to be
on the
Contents
tab, click
Windows 2000
.
I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my
Creating a Restore Point
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files
and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system
restoration is complete.
Click the
1
System Restore
2
Ensure that
3
Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
The
Start
button and click
System Restore
Start
.
button, point to
.
Restore my computer to an earlier time
Select a Restore Point
Help and Support
All Programs→
.
Accessories→
System Tools
is selected and click
, and then click
Next
.
screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore
points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.
4
Select a restore point and click
Next
.
If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected.
If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.
28 Quick Reference Guide
5
Click
Next
.
The
Restoration Complete
screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and
then the computer restarts.
6
After the computer restarts, click OK.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you
can undo the restoration.
Undoing the Last System Restore
NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open
programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1
Click the
System Restore
2
Click
3
Click
The
4
After the computer restarts, click OK.
Enabling System Restore
Start
button, point to
.
Undo my last restoration
Next
.
System Restore
screen appears and the computer restarts.
All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools
and click
Next
.
, and then click
If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available,
System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Click the
4
Ensure that
Start
button and click
System
.
System Restore
Turn off System Restore
tab.
Control Panel
is unchecked.
.
Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP
Before You Begin
If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a
newly installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback. (For information on
Device Driver Rollback, see your online
the problem, then use System Restore (see "Using Microsoft
page 28) to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the
new device driver.
NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For
conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.
User’s Guide
). If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve
®
Windows® XP System Restore" on
Quick Reference Guide 29
To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:
• Dell™
•Dell
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer.
Use the Drivers and Utilities CD to load any required drivers, including the drivers required if your
computer has a RAID controller.
Reinstalling Windows XP
NOTICE: You must use Windows XP Service Pack 1 or later when you reinstall Windows XP.
Operating System
Drivers and Utilities
To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which they
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are listed.
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating
system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can
overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall
Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.
NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your
computer before you reinstall Windows XP. See the documentation that came with the software for
instructions.
Booting From the Operating System CD
CD
CD
1
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2
Insert the
3
Restart the computer.
4
Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
Operating System
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut
down the computer and try again.
5
Press the arrow keys to select
6
When the
Windows XP Setup
1
When the
.
now
2
Read the information on the
<F8> to accept the license agreement.
3
If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to recover your current
Windows XP data, type
30 Quick Reference Guide
CD. Click
CD-ROM
Press any key to boot from CD
Windows XP Setup
screen appears, press <Enter> to select
Exit
if
Install Windows XP
, and press <Enter>.
Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement
r
to select the repair option, and remove the CD.
message appears.
message appears, press any key.
To set up Windows
screen, and press
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