Dell PP04X User Manual

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Dell™ Latitude™ D531

User’s Guide

Model PP04X

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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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 "Glossary" on page 151.

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

Windows®

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Latitude, ExpressCharge, Dell TravelLite, Undock & Go, Dell MediaDirect, Dell Media Experience, and Dell TrueLife are trademarks of Dell Inc.; AMD, AMD Sempron, AMD Turion, ATI Radeon, Catalyst, the AMD Arrow logo and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.; Microsoft, Outlook, Windows Vista and Windows are registered trademarks Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell 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.

Model PP04X

May 2008 P/N TU945 Rev. A01

of Microsoft Corporation; EMC is the registered trademark of EMC Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by

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1 Finding Information

2 About Your Computer

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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

3 Transferring Information to a New Computer

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

4 Using a Battery

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Microsoft Charge Gauge

Windows® Power Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

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

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Power Management Modes

Standby Mode

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Hibernate Mode

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Configuring Power Management Settings

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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Storing a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

5 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Key Combinations

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Wireless Display Functions

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Speaker Functions Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Touch Pad

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Customizing the Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

6 Using the Display

Display Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Switching the Video Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Using ATI Catalyst® Control Center

Launching Catalyst Control Center

Using an External Monitor or Projector

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

7 Using Multimedia

4 Contents

Using an External Monitor

Extending Your Computer Display Changing Your Primary Display

Saving Battery Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

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

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

Playing CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

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Using Blank CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Helpful Tips

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

If the Computer Is Turned Off or in Hibernate Mode

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video and Standard Audio Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . 54

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

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

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

8 Setting Up and Using Networks

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Setting Up a Network

Wireless Local Area Network

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection Checking Your Wireless Network Card

Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Connecting to a WLAN

Mobile Broadband (WWAN)

Establishing a Mobile Broadband Network Connection Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Managing Your Network Settings

Microsoft

Windows® Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

. . . . . . . . . . 64

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

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

9 Using Cards

Card Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

PC Card Blanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Extended PC Cards

Installing a PC Card or an ExpressCard

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

Removing a PC Card or Blank

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

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

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

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10 Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Passwords

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

Using a Primary/System Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Using an Administrator Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Using a Hard Drive Password

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

Enabling the TPM Feature

Computer Tracking Software

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

11 Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Touch Pad

Mouse

Floppy Drive

CDs and DVDs

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Cleaning a Non-Optical Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Cleaning an Optical Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

12 Troubleshooting

6 Contents

Dell Technical Update Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

. . . . . . . . . . . . 79

. . . . 80

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Dell Support Utility

Accessing the Dell Support Utility Clicking the Dell Support Icon Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

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Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

External keyboard problems Unexpected characters

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Lockups and Software Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

The computer does not start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly A program uses an earlier operating system version

. . . . . . . . . . . . 91

. . . . . . . . . . . 91

A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Finding Information

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.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.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• My device documentation

• Notebook System Software (NSS)

Drivers and Utilities Media (also known as the ResourceCD)

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the media to reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 104) and to run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

Readme files may be included on your media to provide last-minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technicalreference material for technicians or experienced users.

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at

support.dell.com.

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media may be optional and

may not ship with your computer.

Finding Information 11

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What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

• How to care for my computer

• Basic troubleshooting information

• How to run the Dell Diagnostics

• Error codes and diagnostic lights

• Tools and utilities

• How to set up a printer

• Additional information about setting up my computer

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

• How to remove and install parts

• How to open my computer cover

•Specifications

• How to contact Dell

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Quick Reference Guide

NOTE: This document may be optional and may not ship with

your computer.

NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at

support.dell.com.

Dell™ Product Information Guide

• How to remove and replace parts

•Specifications

• How to configure system settings

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

12 Finding Information

User’s Guide

Microsoft Windows Help and Support Center

Click

Start

→

Help and Support→ Dell User

→

and System Guides

Click the online documentation.

User’s Guide

System Guides

for your computer in the list of

Page 13

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License

These labels are located on your computer.

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

support.dell.com

or contact support.

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

• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online courses, frequently asked questions

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system

• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and order status, warranty, and repair information

• Service and support — Service call status and support history, service contract, online discussions with support

• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my computer configuration, product specifications, and white papers

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates

• Notebook System Software (NSS) — If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the NSS utility. NSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell™

3.5-inch USB floppy drives, AMD™ processors, optical drives, and USB devices. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration.

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business segment to view the

appropriate support site.

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

, select your region or business

segment, and enter your Service Tag.

Select Drivers & Downloads

Click your operating system and search for the keyword

Notebook System Software

and click Go.

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary

depending on your selections.

Finding Information 13

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What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints

• Frequently asked questions, hot topics, and general health of your computing environment

• How to use Windows operating systems

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

• Information on network activity, the Power Management Wizard, hot keys, and other items controlled by Dell QuickSet.

Dell Support Utility

The Dell Support Utility is an automated upgrade and notification system installed on your computer. This support provides real-time health scans of your computing environment, software updates, and relevant self-support information. Access the Dell Support Utility from the icon in the taskbar. For more information, see "Dell Support Utility" on page 82.

Windows Help and Support Center

Click the

Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Dell QuickSet Help

To view

Dell QuickSet Help, right-click the QuickSet

icon in the Microsoft

For more information on Dell QuickSet, see "Dell™ QuickSet" on page 131.

• How to reinstall my operating system

The operating system is already installed on your computer. See "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 106).

Start

button or

Windows® taskbar.

→

Help and Support.

14 Finding Information

Page 15

About Your Computer

Front View

display latch

4 device status lights 5

touch pad

wireless enable/disable button

display

speakers

touch pad buttons

ambient light sensor

power button

(2) 6 keyboard

keyboard status lights

About Your Computer 15

Page 16

DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed.

DISPLAY — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on page 41.

POWER BUTTON — Press the power button to turn on the computer or exit a power management mode (see "Power

Management Modes" on page 32).

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft

Windows® operating system

shutdown rather than by pressing the power button.

If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off completely (which may take several seconds).

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

16 About Your Computer

Page 17

Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in standby mode.

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

Turns on when Bluetooth disable Bluetooth

wireless technology or other wireless devices, press the

wireless technology is enabled. To enable or

wireless enable/disable button.

NOTE: Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional feature on your computer,

so the icon turns on only if Bluetooth wireless technology is installed on your computer.

For more information, see the documentation that came with your Bluetooth wireless technology.

Turns on when wireless devices are enabled.

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the

light is flashing.

If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the light operates as follows:

• Solid green: The battery is charging.

• Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged.

If the computer is running on a battery, the light operates as follows:

• Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off).

• Flashing orange: The battery charge is low.

• Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low.

SPEAKERS — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume-control keyboard shortcuts. For

more information, see "Adjusting the Volume" on page 53.

KEYBOARD — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Windows logo key. For information on

supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Key Combinations" on page 35.

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 37 for more information.

TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 37 for more information.

WIRELESS ENABLE/DISABLE BUTTON — Toggles the Bluetooth or WLAN networking technology on and off.

AMBIENT LIGHT SENSOR — Measures the intensity of light near the computer and adjusts the backlighting of the

LCD screen. This function provides optimal viewing and saves battery usage by reducing power to the LCD screen when a high level of backlighting is not needed. See "Saving Battery Power" on page 45 for more information.

About Your Computer 17

Page 18

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Left Side View

18 About Your Computer

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

1 234

Page 19

1 security cable slot 2 air vent 3 IEEE 1394 connector

4 audio connectors (2) 5 PC Card slot 6 hard drive

SECURITY CABLE SLOT —Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more

information, see the instructions included with the device.

NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot.

AIR VENT — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer

from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your

computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a

problem with the fan or the computer.

IEEE 1394

CONNECTOR — Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394a high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital

video cameras.

AUDIO CONNECTORS

About Your Computer 19

Page 20

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

PC CARD SLOT — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter, or an ExpressCard in an adapter. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see "Using Cards" on page 67.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

Right Side View

1 3

1 media bay 2 device latch release 3 USB connectors (2)

MEDIA BAY — You can install devices such as an optical drive, second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module in the

media bay. For more information, see "About the Media Bay" on page 127.

DEVICE LATCH RELEASE — Releases the media bay device. See "About the Media Bay" on page 127 for instructions.

CONNECTORS

USB

Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. You can also connect the optional floppy drive directly to a USB connector using the optional floppy drive cable.

Back View

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your

computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

20 About Your Computer

Page 21

8123 4 5 6 7

1 network connector (RJ-45) 2 S-video TV-out connector 3 USB connectors (2)

4 modem connector (RJ-11) 5 serial connector 6 VGA connector

7 AC adapter connector 8 air vents

NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)

NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the computer, do

not plug a telephone line into the network connector.

Connects the computer to a network. The two lights next to the connector indicate the status of both the connection and the transfer of information for wired network communications.

For information on using the network adapter, see the device user’s guide supplied with your computer. See "Finding Information" on page 11.

VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

S-

Connects your computer to a TV. For more information, see "Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device" on page 54.

USB CONNECTORS

Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. You can also connect the optional floppy drive directly to a USB connector using the optional floppy drive cable.

About Your Computer 21

Page 22

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

If you ordered the optional internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

For information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer. See "Finding Information" on page 11 for information about accessing online user’s guides.

SERIAL CONNECTOR

Connects serial devices, such as a mouse or handheld device.

VGA CONNECTOR

Connects an external VGA monitor. For more information, see "Using the Display" on page 41.

AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR — Attach an AC adapter to the computer.

The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either on or off.

CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power

strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to the power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage.

NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the connector, not the cable itself,

and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable.

AIR VENTS — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer

22 About Your Computer

Page 23

from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your

computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a

problem with the fan or the computer.

Bottom View

1 3

1 battery charge gauge 2 battery-bay latch release 3 battery

4 memory module/coin-cell battery

cover

7 hard drive

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE — Provides information on the battery charge. For more information, see "Using a

Battery" on page 29.

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE — Releases the battery. See "Using a Battery" on page 29 for instructions.

BATTERY — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an

electrical outlet. For more information, see "Using a Battery" on page 29.

5 docking device slot 6 air vents

About Your Computer 23

Page 24

MEMORY MODULE/COIN-CELL BATTERY COVER — Covers the compartment that contains one memory module and

the coin-cell battery. For additional information, see "Adding and Replacing Parts" on page 111.

DOCKING DEVICE SLOT — Lets you attach your computer to a docking device. See the documentation that came

with your docking device for additional information.

NOTICE: Your computer features Undock & Go™ technology that allows you to undock your computer without

going into standby mode. Because the computer will not go automatically into standby mode when it is undocked, be sure the settings in the Power Options control panel do not prohibit the computer from going into standby mode. If you change the Power Options control panel to prohibit the computer from going into standby mode, you greatly increase the chances of causing your battery to wear down quickly or causing your computer to overheat.

AIR VENTS — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer

from overheating.

CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your

computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a

problem with the fan or the computer.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

24 About Your Computer

Page 25

Transferring Information to a New Computer

The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data from a source computer to a new computer. You can transfer data, such as:

• E-mail messages

• Toolbar settings

•Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

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. To transfer data over a serial connection, you must access the Network Connections utility from the Control Panel and perform additional configuration steps, such as setting up an advanced connection and designating the host computer and the guest computer.

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 some countries.

For transferring information to a new computer, you must run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. You can use the optional Operating System media this process or you can create a wizard disk with the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Windows XP

Using the Wizard With Operating System Media

NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System media. The media is optional and may not be included

with all computers.

To prepare a new computer for the file transfer:

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Tools

→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

When the

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

Start→

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer→

All Programs→

Transferring Information to a New Computer 25

Accessories→ System

Page 26

On the

When the click

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

→ Next

Now go to your old computer

at this time.

screen, click

I will use the wizard from the Windows XP

screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

Under

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

, click

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

What do you want to transfer?

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Finish

Operating System

screen, click

Transfer files and settings

welcome screen, click

Old Computer→

media.

Perform additional tasks

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Completing the Collection Phase

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

screen, select the method you chose for transferring your

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

screen appears.

not

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

Click

Finished

Using the Wizard Without the Operating System Media

and restart the new computer.

Finished

screen appears.

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:

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Tools

→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

When the

On the

drive

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

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

→

Next.

screen, click

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer→

I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following

Accessories→ System

26 Transferring Information to a New Computer

Page 27

When the disk creation completes and the

do not

click

Go to the old computer.

Now go to your old computer

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click the

In the media) and click

On the

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Start→

Open

Run

field on the

Run

window, browse to the path for

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

What do you want to transfer?

Finish

fastwiz

(on the appropriate removable

welcome screen, click

Old Computer→

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Completing the Collection Phase

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

. Follow the instructions on the screen.

screen, select the method you chose for transferring your

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

message appears,

screen appears.

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

Click

Finished

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 Windows

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

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , click

and restart the new computer.

XP Operating System?).

Finished

screen appears.

Transfer files and settings→

Start Windows Easy

Tr an sf e r.

In the

User Account Control

Click

Start a new transfer

dialog box, click

Continue a transfer in progress

Continue

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

Transferring Information to a New Computer 27

Page 28

28 Transferring Information to a New Computer

Page 29

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or

separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer.

For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.

NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer to an

electrical outlet the first time you use the computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, click Start→ Settings→ Control Panel→ Power Options→ Power Meter.

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. You can install an optional second battery in the media bay to significantly increase operating time.

NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on

how often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer.

NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD.

Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:

•Using optical drives.

• Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, ExpressCards, media memory cards, or USB devices.

• Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as complex 3D graphics applications.

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33 for information about accessing Windows Power Options Properties or Dell QuickSet, which you can use to configure power management settings.

You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low.

CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery

only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.

Using a Battery 29

Page 30

CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a charge, call

your local waste disposal or environmental agency for advice on disposing of lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries. See "Battery Disposal" in the

CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture, incinerate,

disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.

Product Information Guide

Checking the Battery Charge

The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and the battery meter icon ( or ), the battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge.

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, battery health, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, doubleclick the battery meter icon ( or ) on the taskbar.

If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears.

Charge Gauge

By either pressing once or pressing and holding the status button on the charge gauge on the battery, you can check:

• Battery charge (check by pressing and

• Battery health (check by pressing and

The battery operating time is largely determined by the number of times it is charged. After hundreds of charge and discharge cycles, batteries lose some charge capacity—or battery health. That is, a battery can show a status of "charged" but maintain a reduced charge capacity (health).

Check the Battery Charge

To check the battery charge, press and release the status button on the battery charge gauge to illuminate the charge-level lights. Each light represents approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if the battery has 80 percent of its charge remaining, four of the lights are on. If no lights appear, the battery has no charge.

30 Using a Battery

releasing

holding

the status button)

Page 31

Check the Battery Health

NOTE: You can check battery health in one of two ways: by using the charge gauge on the battery as described

below and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

To check the battery health using the charge gauge, press and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See "Battery" on page 145 for more information about the battery operating time.

Low-Battery Warning

NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery warning. Then

connect the computer to an electrical outlet, or install a second battery in the media bay. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.

A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. If two batteries are installed, the low-battery warning means that the combined charge of both batteries is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer enters hibernate mode when the battery charge is at a critically low level.

You can change the settings for the battery alarms in QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.

Conserving Battery Power

Perform the following actions to conserve battery power:

• Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible because battery life is largely determined by the number of times the battery is used and recharged.

• Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time. See "Power Management Modes" on page 32.

• Use the Power Management Wizard (in Microsoft Windows XP) or the

Power Options Properties

window to select options to optimize your computer’s power usage. These options can also be set to change when you press the power button, close the display, or press <Fn><Esc>.

NOTE: See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33 for information on conserving battery power.

Using a Battery 31

Page 32

Power Management Modes

Standby Mode

Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a predetermined period of inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby mode.

NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby mode, it may lose data.

To enter standby mode:

•Click the

Start

button and then click

Tur n o ff co m p ute r→

Stand by

• Depending on how you set the power management options in the or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, use one of the following methods:

– Press the power button.

– Close the display.

– Press <Fn><Esc>.

To exit standby mode, press the power button or open the display, depending on how you set the power management options. You cannot make the computer exit standby mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad.

Power Options Properties

window

Hibernate Mode

Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits hibernate mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering hibernate mode.

NOTICE: You cannot remove devices or undock your computer while your computer is in hibernate mode.

Your computer enters hibernate mode if the battery charge level becomes critically low.

To manually enter hibernate mode:

•Click the

• Depending on how you set the power management options in the or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:

– Press the power button.

– Close the display.

– Press <Fn><F1>.

Start

button, click

Turn off computer

, press and hold <Shift>, and then click

Power Options Properties

Hibernate

window

32 Using a Battery

Page 33

NOTE: Some PC Cards or ExpressCards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode.

Remove and reinsert the card (see "" on page 69), or simply restart (reboot) your computer.

To exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit hibernate mode. You cannot make the computer exit hibernate mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad. For more information on hibernate mode, see the documentation that came with your operating system.

Configuring Power Management Settings

You can use the QuickSet Power Management Wizard or Windows Power Options Properties to configure the power management settings on your computer.

• For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and click

•To access the

Performance and Maintenance→ Properties

need information.

Power Options Properties

window, click the question mark icon on the title bar, and then click on the area where you

window, click the

Power Options

Start

button and then click

. For information on any field in the

Control Panel→

Help

Power Options

Charging the Battery

NOTE: Using the AC adapter, all batteries use Dell™ ExpressCharge™. When the system is off, the battery will

reach 80% of it’s capacity during charging in about one hour, and 100% of it’s capacity in about two hours. You can leave the battery in the computer as long as you like. The battery’s internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.

NOTE: You must use a 90-Watt AC adaptor to use ExpressCharge a 9-cell battery.

When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the computer checks the battery charge and temperature. If necessary, the AC adapter then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge.

If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot environment, the battery may not charge when you connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

The battery is too hot to start charging if the light flashes alternately green and orange. Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and allow the computer and the battery to cool to room temperature. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue charging the battery.

For more information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 93.

Replacing the Battery

CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only

with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell™ computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter from the

electrical outlet and the computer, disconnect the modem from the wall connector and computer, and remove any other external cables from the computer.

Using a Battery 33

Page 34

NOTICE: You must remove all external cables from the computer to avoid possible connector damage.

For information about replacing the second battery, which is located in the media bay, see "Removing and Installing Media Bay Devices" on page 128.

To remove the battery:

If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.

Ensure that the computer is turned off, in hibernate mode, or connected to AC power.

NOTICE: Removing the battery in while the computer is in standby mode (without AC power) causes the computer

to shut down and may result in loss of data.

Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the battery from the bay.

2 3

To replace the battery, follow the removal procedure in reverse order.

Storing a Battery

Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully (see "Charging the Battery" on page 33) before you use it.

34 Using a Battery

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Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

numeric keypad

The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, hold down <Fn> and press the desired key.

• To enable the keypad, press <Num Lk>. The light indicates that the keypad is active.

• To disable the keypad, press <Num Lk> again.

Key Combinations

System Functions

<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Ta s k M a n a ge r window.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 35

Page 36

Battery

<Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter (see

"Checking the Battery Charge" on page 30).

Wireless

<Fn><F2> Enables and disables wireless networking and Bluetooth

wireless technology. Displays the status for each radio device installed in the computer.

Display Functions

<Fn><F8> Switches the video image to the next display option. The

options include the integrated display, an external monitor, and both displays simultaneously.

<Fn><F7> Scales between wide-screen and standard aspect ratio

video resolutions.

<Fn> and left-arrow key When on battery power, activates the ambient light

sensor, which controls brightness of the display based on light level in the current environment. Ambient light sensor status is displayed on a pop-up.

<Fn> and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not

on an external monitor). Ambient light sensor brightness level is displayed in a pop-up.

<Fn> and down-arrow key Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not

on an external monitor). Ambient light sensor brightness level is displayed in a pop-up.

Power Management

<Fn><Esc> Also known as the Suspend key. Activates a power

management mode. You can reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33).

<Fn><F1> Puts the system into hibernate mode. Dell QuickSet is

required (see "Dell™ QuickSet" on page 131).

36 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 37

Speaker Functions

<Fn><Page Up> Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and

external speakers, if attached.

<Fn><Page Dn> Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and

external speakers, if attached.

<Fn><End> Enables and disables the integrated speakers and external

speakers, if attached.

Microsoft

Windows logo key and <m> Minimizes all open windows.

Windows logo key and <Shift><m> Restores all minimized windows. This key

Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer.

Windows logo key and <r> Opens the Run dialog box.

Windows logo key and <f> Opens the Search Results dialog box.

Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f> Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if

Windows logo key and <Pause> Opens the System Properties dialog box.

Windows® Logo Key Functions

combination functions as a toggle to restore minimized windows following the use of the Windows logo key and <m> key combination.

the computer is connected to a network).

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, click Start or

→

Help and

Support.

Touch Pad

The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow you to move the cursor on the display. Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons as you would use a mouse.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 37

Page 38

1 touch pad 2 touch pad buttons

• To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad.

• To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch-pad button.

• To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad. On the second tap, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected object by sliding your finger over the surface.

• To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch-pad button twice.

Customizing the Touch Pad

You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad or adjust its settings.

Open the Control Panel, and then click Windows Help and Support Center. Help and Support.

In the

Mouse Properties

•Click the

Device Select

Touch Pa d

window:

tab to disable the touch pad.

tab to adjust touch pad settings.

38 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Mouse

. For information about the Control Panel, see the

To access the Help and Support Center, click Start or

→

Page 39

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 39

Page 40

40 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 41

Using the Display

Display Properties

Adjusting Brightness

When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the display brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard.

NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors or

projectors that you attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter may appear, but the brightness level on the external device does not change.

You can press the following keys to adjust display brightness:

• Press <Fn> and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

• Press <Fn> and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

Switching the Video Image

When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector) attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the external device.

Press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously.

Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image may appear blurry or text may

be hard to read if you change the resolution to one not supported by your computer and display. Before you change any of the display settings, make a note of the current settings so you can change back to the previous settings if you need to.

You can enhance the legibility of text and change the appearance of images on the screen by adjusting display resolution. As you increase resolution, items appear smaller on the screen. In contrast, lower resolution causes text and images to appear larger and can benefit people with vision impairments. To display a program at a specific resolution, both the video card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.

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NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with your Dell-

installed operating system.

If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values.

To set the display resolution and refresh rate for your display, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Click

Start→

Under

Display

In the

Try different settings for

NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen.

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task...

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

Display Properties

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

window, click the

Color quality

Settings

and

Screen resolution

tab.

or pick a Control Panel icon

, click

Microsoft Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

window, under

Control Panel

, click

Adjust screen resolution

Resolution

, slide the slide bar to the left/right to

decrease/increase the screen resolution.

Click

How do I get the best display?

for further instructions.

If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode. In pan mode, the entire video image cannot be displayed at one time, and the taskbar that usually appears at the bottom of the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the parts of the video image that are not visible, you can use the touch pad to pan (or move) the image up, down, left, and right.

NOTICE: You can damage an external monitor by using an unsupported refresh rate. Before adjusting the refresh

rate on an external monitor, see the user’s guide for the monitor.

Using ATI Catalyst® Control Center

The ATI Catalyst Control Center is a graphical user application that provides access to display features contained within the installed ATI hardware and software. The Catalyst Control Center fine-tunes your graphics settings, enables or disables connected display devices, and changes the orientation of your desktop. Many of the features show you a preview of the changes before they are applied.

NOTE: Microsoft .NET 1.1 or 2.0 must be installed to support the full functionality of the Catalyst Control Center.

The Catalyst Control Center provides two views of the software:

• Standard View is a simplified view that includes wizards to get the inexperienced user up and running.

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• Advance View allows the advanced user to access and configure the complete feature set of the software.

The Catalyst Control Center can be customized for easy access to the features you use most.

Use the Catalyst Control Center to access a comprehensive online help system. In addition, you can connect to ATI website at www.ati.com for more information about how to use the Catalyst Control Center.

Launching Catalyst Control Center

You can launch the Catalyst Control Center from any of the following access points:

• Windows Start menu

• Desktop shortcuts

• Predefined hot keys

Using the Start Menu

From the Windows taskbar, click Start→ All Programs→ ATI Catalyst Control Center→ ATI Catalyst Control Center.

Using the Desktop Shortcut

When you install the Catalyst Control Center, the setup wizard provides an option to place a shortcut on the desktop. If you select this option, you can double-click the desktop shortcut to start the Catalyst Control Center.

Using Hot Keys

You can press the predefined combination of keys <Ctrl><Alt><c> to launch Catalyst Control Center, or you can define your own hot key sequence by using the Catalyst Control Center's HotKey Manager.

Using an External Monitor or Projector

When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector) attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the external device.

Press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously.

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Using an External Monitor

Extending Your Computer Display

You can attach an external monitor or projector to your computer and use it as an extension of your display (known as "dual independent display" or "extended desktop" mode). This mode allows you to use both screens independently and drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

To use extended desktop mode, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Connect the external monitor, TV, or projector to the computer.

Click

Start→

Under

Display

In the

NOTE: If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust

automatically to the closest supported values. For more information, see your operating system documentation.

Click the monitor 2 icon, click the

Change

If prompted to restart the computer, click

If prompted, click OK to resize your desktop.

If prompted, click

Click OK to close the

To disable dual independent display mode:

Click the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the then click

If necessary, press <Fn><F8> to bring the screen image back to the computer display.

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display Properties

Screen Area

Settings

Apply

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

to the appropriate sizes for both displays and click

Ye s

to keep the settings.

Display Properties

tab in the

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

window, click the

Display Properties

Settings

Extend my Windows desktop...

Apply the new color setting without restarting

window.

Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor

tab.

window.

or pick a Control Panel icon

check box, and then click

Apply

and click

option, and

, click

Apply

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click

Under

44 Update with your book title

Appearance and Personalization

Control Panel

, click

Adjust screen resolution

Page 45

In the

Display Settings

monitor

Click OK to close the

To disable extended desktop mode:

In the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the

Apply

check box, and then click

Display Settings

window, click the monitor 2 icon, click the

Apply

Display Settings

window, click the

window.

Settings

Extend the desktop onto this monitor

tab.

Extend the desktop onto this

option, and then click

Changing Your Primary Display

To swap your primary and secondary display designations (for example, to use your external monitor as your primary display after docking), perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Click the

Under

Display

Click the

See the documentation that came with your video card for additional information.

Start

button and click

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Settings

, click the area you want to change, or under

tab→

Control Panel

, click

Appearance and Themes

Advanced→

Displays

tab.

or pick a Control Panel icon

, click

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click

Under

In the box, and then click

Click OK to close the

Appearance and Personalization

Display Settings

window, click the monitor 2 icon, click the

Apply

Display Settings

Control Panel

, click

Adjust screen resolution

window.

This is my main monitor

check

Saving Battery Power

When you change your location, such as moving from artificial light to direct sunlight, and you do not adjust your display, you could waste battery power unnecessarily. The ambient light sensor monitors the light intensity in the environment and optimizes your display to conserve battery power.

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1 ambient light sensor

The ambient light sensor is located on the front of the computer display. The sensor detects available environmental light and automatically increases or decreases the display brightness to compensate for low-light and high-light environments. Because increased brightness uses more battery power, the sensor monitors the light intensity in the environment and decreases brightness in low-light environments to avoid depleting battery power unnecessarily.

NOTE: The ambient light sensor is disabled when your computer is connected to AC power.

You can enable or disable the ambient light sensor feature by pressing the <Fn> and left-arrow key combination.

NOTE: Do not cover the ambient light sensor with any adhesive labels. If covered up, the sensor—when

enabled—automatically sets the display brightness to the minimum level.

The ambient light sensor is disabled when your computer is shipped to you. If you enable the sensor and then use any of the display brightness key combinations, the sensor is disabled and the display brightness is increased or decreased accordingly.

Dell QuickSet allows you to enable or disable the ambient light sensor feature. You can also adjust maximum and minimum brightness settings that are activated when you enable the ambient light sensor feature. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

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NOTE: Rebooting the computer returns the ambient light sensor to the setting (either enabled or disabled) as it

was before it was adjusted.

NOTE: The ambient light sensor adjusts the display backlighting on your portable computer only. It does not

control the brightness on any external monitors or projectors.

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Using Multimedia

Playing CDs or DVDs

NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD/DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you

are not using the drive.

NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing CDs or DVDs.

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

Pull out the tray.

Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray and snap the disc onto the spindle.

NOTE: If you use a module that shipped with another computer, you need to install the drivers and software

necessary to play DVDs or write data. For more information, see the Drivers and Utilities media (the Drivers and Utilities media is optional and may not be available for your computer or in certain countries).

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Push the tray back into the drive.

To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer.

NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

Play.

Move backward within the current track.

Pau se.

Move forward within the current track.

Stop.

Go to the previous track.

Eject.

Go to the next track.

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:

Stop.

Restart the current chapter.

Play.

Fast forward.

Pau se.

Fast reverse.

Advance a single frame while in pause mode.

Go to the next title or chapter.

Continuously play the current title or chapter.

Go to the previous title or chapter.

Eject.

For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Copying CDs and DVDs

NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when creating CDs or DVDs.

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This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD (combo) drive.

NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.

The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD using Roxio Creator Plus

- Dell Edition. You can also use Roxio Creator Plus for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Roxio Creator Plus, and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive and you

experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at sonic.com.

The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus.

Open Roxio Creator Plus.

Under the

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

Copy

tab, click

If you have one CD/DVD drive

Disc Copy

, ensure that the settings are correct, and then click

Disc Copy

computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive and click

. The

•

If you have two CD/DVD drives

DVD, and then click

Disc Copy

, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or

. The computer copies the data from the source CD or DVD to the

blank CD or DVD.

Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created automatically ejects.

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed CD-RW media) while DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.

Use a blank CD-R to record music or permanently store data files. After the maximum storage capacity of a CD-R is reached, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use a blank CD-RW if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on the CD later.

A blank DVD+/-R can be used to permanently store large amounts of data. After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is finalized or closed during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use a blank DVD+/-RW if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on the disc later.

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CD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

CD-RW Yes Yes Yes

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

CD-RW Yes Yes Yes

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DV D -R W Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Maybe No No

DVD-RAM Maybe No No

Helpful Tips

• Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Roxio Creator Plus and open a Creator project.

• Use a CD-R to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. A CD-RW may not play in many home or car stereos.

• You cannot create audio DVDs with Roxio Creator Plus.

• Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.

• Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may not support all available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by your DVD player, see the documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer.

• Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1–2 MB of blank space to finalize the recording.

• Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank a CDRW to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.

• See the Sonic website at

sonic.com

for additional information.

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Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.

Open the

Click and drag the bar in the the volume.

For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.

The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select or deselect Disable On Screen Volume Meter, or press the volume control buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.

Volume C o ntrol

1 volume icon 2 Vo lume M e ter 3 mute icon

window.

Volume C o ntrol

column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease

When the meter is enabled, adjust the volume with the volume control buttons or by pressing the following keys:

• Press <Fn><PageUp> to increase volume.

• Press <Fn><PageDn> to decrease volume.

• Press <Fn><End> to mute volume.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.

Adjusting the Picture

If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties. For instructions, see the following section that corresponds to your computer’s operating system.

Microsoft Windows XP

Click

Start→

Under

Control Panel→ Appearance and Themes

Pick a task...

, click

Change the screen resolution

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Under

Screen resolution

In the drop-down menu under

, click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution setting.

Color quality

, click

Medium (16 bit)

and click OK.

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Click the Windows Vista Start button

Under

Personalization

The

Display Properties

Under

Resolution:

In the drop-down menu under

Click OK.

, click

Adjust Screen Resolution

window appears.

click and drag the bar reduce the resolution setting.

Colors:

→ Control Panel→

, click

Medium (16 bit)

Appearance and Personalization

If the Computer Is Turned Off or in Hibernate Mode

When your computer is turned off or in hibernate mode, you can press the Dell MediaDirect™ button to start the computer and automatically launch the Dell MediaDirect application.

NOTE: You cannot reinstall the Dell Media Experience™ or Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the

hard drive. You need the installation software to reinstall the media applications. Contact Dell for assistance (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio device may not be included

with your computer. Cables and TV/digital audio cables are available for purchase from Dell.

You can use a standard S-video cable and a standard audio cable to connect the computer to a TV or audio device.

NOTE: Your computer supports Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) digital audio through the optional Dell

D/Dock or D/Port port replicator. For information on enabling S/PDIF digital audio, see the documentation that accompanied your D/Dock or D/Port device.

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S-Video and Standard Audio

1 audio connector 2 S-video TV-out connector

1 standard S-video cable 2 standard audio cable

Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.

NOTE: If your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio, you can connect an S-video cable

directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer (without the TV/digital audio cable).

Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the computer.

Plug the other end of the S-video cable into the S-video input connector on your TV.

Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on your computer.

Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device.

Turn on the TV and any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer.

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 56 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

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Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones

NOTE: The CL headphone feature is available only if your computer has a DVD drive.

If your computer has a DVD drive, you can enable digital audio for DVD playback.

Launch the

Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.

Cyberlink PowerDVD

program.

If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.

Click the

Click the arrows beside the

Headphones

Click the arrows beside the

CL Headphone

Click the arrows beside the

Click the

Settings

DVD

DVD Audio Setting

option.

icon.

Speaker Configuration

option.

Audio listening mode

option.

Dynamic range compression

Back

button once, and then click the

setting to scroll through the options, and select the

option to select the most suitable option.

Back

button again to return to the main menu screen.

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the computer before you enable the

display settings.

Microsoft Windows XP

Click the

Double-click

Click

Click the tab for your video card.

Start

Display

Advanced

button, point to

and click the

Settings

, and then click

tab.

Control Panel

NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see the Windows Help and Support Center.

To access the Help and Support Center, click Start your computer information and diagnose problems. Then, under My Computer Information, select Hardware.

In the display devices section, select the appropriate option for using either a single display or multiple

→ Help and Support. Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view

displays, ensuring that the display settings are correct for your selection.

Microsoft Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button

Under

Personalization

The

Display Properties

Click

Advanced

, click

window appears.

Adjust Screen Resolution

→ Control Panel→

Appearance and Personalization

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Click the tab for your video card.

NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see the Windows Help and Support Center.

To access the Help and Support Center in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button → Help and Support. Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems. Then, under My Computer Information, select Hardware.

In the display devices section, select the appropriate option for using either a single display or multiple displays, ensuring that the display settings are correct for your selection.

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Setting Up and Using Networks

Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer, or a network. For example, with a network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer, access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or access the Internet. You can set up a local area network (LAN) using a network or broadband modem cable or set up a wireless LAN (WLAN).

The Microsoft help guide you through the process of networking computers. For more information about networking, click Start or

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a network adapter installed and a network cable connected to it.

Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.

Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device or a network wall connector.

Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® operating systems provide wizards to

→ Windows Help and Support.

NOTE: Insert the cable connector until it clicks into place, and then gently pull the cable to ensure that it

is securely attached.

NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall connector.

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Setting Up a Network

Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Checklist for creating a network

NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the

integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2).

Complete the checklist.

Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions in the wizard.

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button →

Select an option under

Click

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications→

Connect To→ Set up a connection or network

Choose a connection option

, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

Network Setup Wizard→ Next

→

Wireless Local Area Network

A WLAN is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each computer. In a WLAN, a radio communications device called an access point or wireless router connects network computers and provides Internet, or network, access. The access point or wireless router and the wireless network card in the computer communicate by broadcasting data from their antennas over the air waves.

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:

• High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL)

• A broadband modem that is connected and working

• A wireless router or access point

• A wireless network card for each computer that you want to connect to your WLAN

• A network cable with a network (RJ-45) connector

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To confirm that your computer has a wireless network card and to determine the type of card, use one of the following:

•The

• The order confirmation for your computer

60 Setting Up and Using Networks

Start

button and the

Connect To

option

Page 61

Start Button and Connect To Option

In Microsoft Windows XP, click Start→ Connect To→ Show all connections.

In Microsoft Windows Vista, click → Connect To→ View network computers and devices.

If Wireless Network Connection does not appear under LAN or High-Speed Internet, you may not have a wireless network card.

If Wireless Network Connection appears, you have a wireless network card. To view detailed information about the wireless network card:

Right-click

Click

The model number are listed on the

NOTE: If your computer is set to the Classic Start menu option, you can view network connections by clicking

The Order Confirmation for Your Computer

Wireless Network Connection

Properties

Wireless Network Connection Properties

→

the Start have a wireless network card.

Settings→ Network Connections. If Wireless Network Connection does not appear, you may not

General

tab.

window appears. The wireless network card’s name and

The order confirmation that you received when you ordered your computer lists the hardware and software that shipped with your computer.

Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem

Contact your Internet service provider (ISP) to obtain specific information about the connection requirements for your broadband modem.

Ensure that you have wired Internet access through your broadband modem before you attempt to set up a wireless Internet connection (see "Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable" on page 59).

Install any software required for your wireless router. Your wireless router may have been shipped with an installation CD. Installation CDs usually contain installation and troubleshooting information. Install the required software according to the instructions provided by the router manufacturer.

Shut down your computer and any other wireless-enabled computers in the vicinity through the or menu.

Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.

Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem.

Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that there is no power connected to the router.

Start

NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before you continue with the

network setup.

Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered broadband modem.

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Connect the other end of the network cable into the Internet network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered wireless router.

Ensure that no network or USB cables, other than the network cable connecting the modem and the wireless router, are connected to the broadband modem.

NOTE: Restart your wireless equipment in the order described below to prevent a potential connection failure.

Tu r n o n

only

your broadband modem and wait for at least 2 minutes for the broadband modem to

stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to step 12.

Turn on your wireless router and wait for at least 2 minutes for the wireless router to stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to the step 13.

Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.

See the documentation that came with your wireless router to do the following in order to set up the wireless router:

• Establish communication between your computer and your wireless router.

• Configure your wireless router to communicate with your broadband router.

• Find out your wireless router’s broadcast name. The technical term for the name of your router’s

broadcast name is Service Set Identifier (SSID) or network name.

If necessary, configure your wireless network card to connect to the wireless network (see "Connecting to a WLAN" on page 62).

Connecting to a WLAN

NOTE: Before you connect to a WLAN, ensure that you have followed the instructions in "Wireless Local Area

Network" on page 60.

NOTE: The following networking instructions do not apply to internal cards with Bluetooth

or cellular products.

This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary. See "Wireless Local Area Network" on page 60 for more information about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.

Your wireless network card requires specific software and drivers for connecting to a network. The software is already installed.

wireless technology

NOTE: If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions in the user documentation for your wireless

network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on page 60.

Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager

Depending on the software installed on your computer, different wireless configuration utilities may manage your network devices:

• Your wireless network card’s client utility

62 Setting Up and Using Networks

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• The Windows XP or Windows Vista operating system

To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network card in Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Right-click the

Settings→

Control Panel→

Wireless Network Connection

Network Connections

icon, and then click

View Available Wireless Networks

If the Choose a wireless network window states Windows cannot configure this connection, the wireless network card’s client utility is managing the wireless network card.

If the Choose a wireless network window states Click an item in the list below to connect to a wireless network in range or to get more information, the Windows XP operating system is managing the wireless network card.

To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network card in Windows Vista:

Click

Double-click a profile to open the wireless network properties screen.

→

Connect To→ Manage wireless networks.

For specific information about the wireless configuration utility installed on your computer, see your wireless network documentation by clicking Start or → Windows Help and Support Center.

Completing the Connection to the WLAN

When you turn on your computer and a network (for which your computer is not configured) is detected in the area, a pop-up appears near the network icon in the notification area (in the lower-right corner of the Windows desktop).

Follow the instructions provided in any utility prompts that appear on your screen.

Once you have configured your computer for the wireless network that you selected, another pop-up notifies you that your computer is connected to that network.

Thereafter, whenever you log on to your computer within the range of the wireless network that you selected, the same pop-up notifies you of the wireless network connection.

NOTE: If you select a secure network, you must enter a WEP or WPA key when prompted. Network security

settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information.

NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.

Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card

The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. To turn the wireless activity indicator on or off, click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Hotkey Popups. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is not checked, the indicator is on. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is checked, the indicator is off.

The wireless activity indicator displays whether your computer’s integrated wireless devices are enabled or disabled. When you turn the wireless networking function on or off, the wireless activity indicator changes to display the status.

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For more information about the Dell QuickSet wireless activity indicator, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Help.

Mobile Broadband (WWAN)

A Mobile Broadband network, also known as a Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN), is a high-speed digital cellular network that provides Internet access over a much wider geographical area than a WLAN, which typically covers only from 100 to 1000 feet. Your computer can maintain Mobile Broadband network access as long as the computer is within a cellular-data coverage zone. Contact your service provider for coverage of a high-speed digital cellular network.

NOTE: Even if you are able to make a call from your cellular phone in a specific geographical location, that

location may not necessarily be within a cellular-data coverage zone.

Establishing a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

NOTE: Depending on your computer, you can use either a Mobile Broadband PC Card or ExpressCard to establish

a Mobile Broadband network connection.

To set up a Mobile Broadband network connection, you need:

• A Mobile Broadband PC Card or ExpressCard

NOTE: For instructions on using PC Cards or ExpressCards, see "Using Cards" on page 67

• An activated Mobile Broadband PC Card or ExpressCard, or activated Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) for your service provider

• The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility (already installed on your computer if you purchased the card when you purchased your computer, or on the CD that accompanied your card if purchased separately from your computer)

If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide for instructions. The user’s guide is available by clicking

Support

, or on the CD that accompanied your card if you purchased it separately from your computer.

Start

→

Help and

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To determine your computer configuration, see one of the following:

• Your order confirmation

• Microsoft Windows Help and Support Center

To check your Mobile Broadband card in the Windows Help and Support Center:

Click

Start→

problems

Under

this computer.

64 Setting Up and Using Networks

Help and Support→

Tools

, click

My Computer Information→

Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose

Find information about the hardware installed on

Page 65

On the My Computer Information - Hardware screen, you can view the type of Mobile Broadband card installed in your computer as well as other hardware components.

NOTE: The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems.

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate Mobile Broadband service through your cellular

service provider. For instructions and for additional information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility,

→

see the user's guide available by clicking Start or also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and on the CD included with your Mobile Broadband card.

Use the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility to establish and manage a Mobile Broadband network connection to the Internet:

Click the

Click

Follow the instructions on the screen to manage the network connection with the utility.

Click

Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon

Connect

NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button.

Start→ All Programs→

Dell Wireless Broadband

Dell Wireless

and follow the instructions on the screen.

Windows Help and Support Center. The user's guide is

on the Windows desktop, to run the utility.

Managing Your Network Settings

The Dell QuickSet Location Profiler helps you manage network settings that correspond to your computer’s physical location. It includes two categories of profile settings:

• Location Profile Settings

• General Mobility Settings

You can use Location Profile Settings to create profiles for accessing the Internet with your computer in your office, home, or other public places with Internet services. General Mobility Settings allows you to change the way network connections are handled. The profiles consist of different network settings and equipment that you need when using your computer in different locations.

For more information about Dell QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Help.

Microsoft

Windows Firewall provides basic protection from unauthorized access to your computer while it is connected to the Internet. Windows Firewall is automatically enabled when you run the Network Setup Wizard.

When Windows Firewall is enabled for a network connection, the firewall icon appears with a red background in the Network Connections section of the Control Panel.

Windows

Firewall

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NOTE: Enabling Windows Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking software.

For more information, click

→

Windows Help and Support Center.

Start→ Control Panel→ Security→ Windows Firewall

, or click Start or

66 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 67

Using Cards

Card Types

PC Cards

See "Specifications" on page 141 for information on supported PC Cards.

NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device.

The PC Card slot has one connector that supports a single Type I or Type II card. The PC Card slot supports CardBus technology and extended PC Cards. "Type" of card refers to its thickness, not its functionality.

PC Card Blanks

Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the PC Card slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no PC Card is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer.

To remove the blank, see "Removing a PC Card or Blank" on page 69.

Extended PC Cards

An extended PC Card (for example, a wireless network adapter) is longer than a standard PC Card and extends outside the computer. Follow these precautions when using extended PC Cards:

• Protect the exposed end of an installed card. Striking the end of the card can damage the system board.

• Always remove an extended PC Card before you pack the computer in its carrying case.

Installing a PC Card or an ExpressCard

You can install a PC Card or ExpressCard in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card.

PC Cards and ExpressCards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) to indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card.

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

Product Information Guide

and see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 112.

To install a PC Card:

Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the slot and the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need to be in the "in" position before you insert the card.

Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.

If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

The computer recognizes most PC Cards and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the floppy disk or CD that came with the PC Card.

To install an ExpressCard:

Place the ExpressCard in the PC Card adapter (the adapter is included with the ExpressCard).

Install the ExpressCard with adapter the same way as a PC Card (see "PC Cards" on page 67).

68 Using Cards

1 PC Card

Page 69

1 slot 2 ExpressCard

Removing a PC Card or Blank

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

Product Information Guide

NOTICE: Use the PC Card configuration utility (click the icon in the taskbar) to select a card and

stop it from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration utility, you could lose data. Do not attempt to eject a card by pulling its cable, if one is attached.

Press the latch and remove the card or blank. For some latches, you must press the latch twice: once to pop the latch out, and then a second time to pop the card out.

Save a blank to use when no PC Card is installed in a slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles.

and see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 112.

Using Cards 69

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www.dell.com | support.dell.com

1 PC Card 2 release button

70 Using Cards

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Securing Your Computer

NOTE: For information on how to secure your computer while traveling, see "Traveling With Your Computer"

on page 133.

Security Cable Lock

NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot on your

computer.

NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock.

\A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell™ computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device.

Passwords

NOTE: Passwords are disabled when you receive your computer.

A primary password, an administrator password, and a hard drive password all prevent unauthorized access to your computer in different ways. The following table identifies types and features of passwords available on your computer.

Securing Your Computer 71

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Type of Password Features

Primary/System

Administrator

Hard drive

NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However, they are not

foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as smart cards, data encryption programs, or PC Cards with encryption features.

NOTE: Some hard drives do not support hard drive passwords.

• Protects the computer from unauthorized access

• Gives system administrators or service technicians access to computers for repair or reconfiguration

• Allows you to restrict access to the system setup program in the same way a primary password restricts access to the computer

• Can be used instead of the primary password

• Helps protect the data on your hard drive or external hard drive (if one is being used) from unauthorized access

If you forget any of your passwords, contact your system administrator or contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138). For your protection, Dell support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.

Using a Primary/System Password

The primary (system) password allows you to protect the computer from unauthorized access.

Access User Accounts from the Control Panel to create user accounts and add or change passwords. After assigning a primary password, you must enter it each time you turn on your computer.

If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state.

NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also disabled.

If you have assigned an administrator password, you can use it instead of the primary password. The computer does not specifically prompt you for the administrator password.

Using an Administrator Password

The administrator password is designed to give system administrators or service technicians access to computers for repair or reconfiguration. The administrators or technicians can assign identical administrator passwords to groups of computers, allowing you to assign a unique primary password.

To set or change administrator passwords, access User Accounts from the Control Panel.

When you set an administrator password, the Configure Setup option becomes available in the system setup program. The Configure Setup option allows you to restrict access to the system setup program in the same way that a primary password restricts access to the computer.

72 Securing Your Computer

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The administrator password can be used instead of the primary password. Whenever you are prompted to enter the primary password, you can enter the administrator password.

NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also disabled.

NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the computer, but it does not provide access to the hard

drive when a hard drive password is assigned.

If you forget the primary password and do not have an administrator password assigned, or if you have both a primary and an administrator password assigned but forget them both, contact your system administrator or contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

Using a Hard Drive Password

The hard drive password helps protect the data on your hard drive from unauthorized access. You can also assign a password for an external hard drive (if one is being used) that can be the same as or different from the password for the primary hard drive.

After assigning a hard drive password, you must enter it each time you turn on the computer and each time you restore the computer to normal operation from standby mode.

If the hard drive password is enabled, you must enter it each time you turn on the computer: A message appears asking for the hard drive password.

To continue, enter your password (with no more than eight characters) and press <Enter>.

If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state.

If you enter the wrong password, a message tells you that the password is invalid. Press <Enter> to try again.

If you do not enter the correct password in three attempts, the computer tries to start from another bootable device if the Boot First Device option in the system setup program is set to allow start-up from another device. If the Boot First Device option is not set to allow the computer to start from another device, the computer returns to the operating state it was in when you turned it on.

If the hard drive password, the external hard-drive password, and the primary password are the same, the computer prompts you only for the primary password. If the hard drive password is different from the primary password, the computer prompts you for both. Two different passwords provide greater security.

If the administrative password is installed when the user creates the primary hard disk password, then the administrative password can be used in place of the primary hard disk password. This feature allows an administrator to unlock password-protected hard disks as long as an administrative passwords are installed before deploying the systems.

There are two behaviors associated with this feature that help to preserve the integrity of the hard disk’s password:

• The administrative password will only work to unlock a hard disk on the system on which the hard disk password was created. This means a password-protected hard disk can not be removed from one system, placed in a second system and be unlocked using the administrative password on the second system.

Securing Your Computer 73

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• Installing an administrative password on a system after the hard disk password has been created will not enable unlocking of the hard disk using the administrative password.

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

NOTE: Computers shipping into China are not equipped with the TPM feature.

NOTE: The TPM feature supports encryption only if the operating system supports TPM. For more information, see

the TPM software documentation and the help files that came with the software.

TPM is a hardware-based security feature that can be used to create and manage computer-generated encryption keys. When combined with security software, the TPM enhances existing network and computer security by enabling features such as file protection capabilities and protected e-mail. The TPM feature is enabled through a system setup option.

NOTICE: To secure your TPM data and encryption keys, follow the backup procedures documented in the

Broadcom Secure Foundation Getting Started Guide. In the event of these backups being incomplete, lost, or damaged, Dell will be unable to assist in the recovery of encrypted data.

Enabling the TPM Feature

Enable the TPM software:

Restart the computer and press <F2> during the Power On Self Test to enter the system setup program.

Select

Security→

Under

TPM Security

Press <Esc> to exit the setup program.

If prompted, click

Activate the TPM setup program:

Restart the computer and press <F2> during the Power On Self Test to enter the system setup program.

Select

Security→

Under

TPM Activation

TPM Security

and press <Enter>.

, select On.

Save/Exit

TPM Activation

, select

Activate

and press <Enter>.

NOTE: You only need to activate the program once.

Once the process is complete, the computer either restarts automatically or prompts you to restart

your computer.

Computer Tracking Software

Computer tracking software may enable you to locate your computer if it is lost or stolen. The software is optional and may be purchased when you order your Dell™ computer, or you can contact your Dell sales representative for information about this security feature.

74 Securing Your Computer

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NOTE: Computer tracking software may not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: If you have computer tracking software and your computer is lost or stolen, you must contact the company

that provides the tracking service to report the missing computer.

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

• Call a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer. Include the Service Tag in your description of the computer. Ask that a case number be assigned and write down the number, along with the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. If possible, obtain the name of the investigating officer.

NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area. If you do not

know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.

• If the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of the company.

• Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer. Provide the computer Service Tag, the case number, and the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency to which you reported the missing computer. If possible, give the name of the investigating officer.

The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the computer Service Tag and record the computer as missing or stolen. If someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives your Service Tag, the computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen. The representative will attempt to get the phone number and address of the caller. Dell will then contact the law enforcement agency to which you reported of the missing computer.

Securing Your Computer 75

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76 Securing Your Computer

Page 77

Cleaning Your Computer

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

Product Information Guide

Computer, Keyboard, and Display

CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and remove

any installed batteries. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.

• Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from between the keys on the keyboard.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer or display, do not spray cleaning solution directly onto the display.

Only use products specifically designed for cleaning displays, and follow the instructions that are included with the product.

• Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with either water or a display cleaner, and wipe the display until it is clean.

• Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water and wipe the computer and keyboard. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.

Touch Pad

Shut down and turn off your computer.

Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets.

Remove any installed batteries (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 33).

Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe it gently across the surface of the touch pad. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.

Mouse

NOTICE: Disconnect the mouse from the computer before cleaning the mouse

If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse.

Cleaning a Non-Optical Mouse

Clean the outside casing of the mouse with a cloth moistened with a mild cleaning solution.

Turn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counterclockwise, and then remove the ball.

Cleaning Your Computer 77

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Wipe the ball with a clean, lint-free cloth.

Blow carefully into the ball cage or use a can of compressed air to dislodge dust and lint.

If the rollers inside the ball cage are dirty, clean the rollers with a cotton swab moistened lightly with isopropyl alcohol.

Re-center the rollers in their channels if they are misaligned. Ensure that fluff from the swab is not left on the rollers.

Replace the ball and retainer ring, and turn the retainer ring clockwise until it clicks into place.

Cleaning an Optical Mouse

Clean the outside casing of the mouse with a cloth moistened with a mild cleaning solution.

Floppy Drive

NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign 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 product. 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.

Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.

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 also safe to use on DVDs.

78 Cleaning Your Computer

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Troubleshooting

Dell Technical Update Service

The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications.

To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.

Dell Diagnostics

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

Product Information Guide

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.

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

Enter the system setup program, review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test displays in the system setup program and is active.

Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities media.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

NOTE: If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that

came with your docking device for instructions.

Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly.

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

Start the Dell Diagnostics in one of the following two ways:

Troubleshooting 79

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

Diagnostics

from the boot

menu and press <Enter>.

NOTE: 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.

NOTE: Before attempting option b, the computer must be powered down completely.

Press and hold the <Fn> key while powering the computer on.

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.

The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment (PSA), a series of initial tests of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, and so on.

• During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.

• If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s) and

see "Contacting Dell" on page 138.

If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you will receive the message, "

Booting

Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition.Press any key to continue"

Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media

Insert the

Shut down and restart the computer.

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

Drivers and Utilities

media.

NOTE: 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.

NOTE: The following 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.

When the boot device list appears, highlight

Select the

Ty p e 1 to start the

Select

Boot from CD-ROM

menu and press <Enter> to proceed.

option from the menu that appears and press <Enter>.

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

CD/DVD/CD-RW

and press <Enter>.

from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select

the version appropriate for your computer.

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

screen appears, select the test you want to run.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the you want.

NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on your computer.

80 Troubleshooting

Main Menu

screen appears, click the button for the option

Page 81

Option Function Test Memory Runs the stand-alone memory test Test System Runs System Diagnostics Exit Exits the Diagnostics

After you have selected the

NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Test from the menu below to run a more thorough

check of devices in the computer.

Option Function Express Test Performs a quick test of devices in the

system. This typically can take 10 to 20 minutes.

Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices in

the system. This typically can take an hour or more.

Custom Test Use to test a specific device or

customize the tests to be run.

Symptom Tree This option allows you to select tests

based on a symptom of the problem you are having. This option lists the most common symptoms.

Test System

option from the main menu, the following menu appears.

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 contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

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

Custom Test

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.

Troubleshooting 81

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Tab Function (continued) 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.

When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the

Remove the Dell

Drivers and Utilities

media (if applicable).

Main Menu

screen.

Dell Support Utility

screen. To exit the Dell

The Dell Support Utility is installed on your computer and available from the Dell Support, , icon on the taskbar or from the Start button. Use this support utility for self-support information, software updates, and health scans of your computing environment.

Accessing the Dell Support Utility

Access the Dell Support Utility from the icon on the taskbar or from the Start menu.

If the Dell Support icon does not appear in your taskbar:

Click

Start→ All Programs→ Dell Support→

Ensure that the

NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to support.dell.com and download the

software.

Show icon on the taskbar

The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment.

The icon in the taskbar functions differently when you click, double-click, or right-click the icon.

82 Troubleshooting

Dell Support Settings

option is checked.

Page 83

Clicking the Dell Support Icon

Click or right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:

• Check your computing environment.

• View the Dell Support Utility settings.

• Access the help file for the Dell Support Utility.

• View frequently asked questions.

• Learn more about the Dell Support Utility.

• Turn the Dell Support Utility off.

Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon

Double-click the icon to manually check your computing environment, view frequently asked questions, access the help file for the Dell Support Utility, and view Dell Support settings.

For more information about the Dell Support Utility, click the question mark (?) at the top of the Dell Support screen.

Drive Problems

™

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

Information Guide

Product

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE

Windows XP:

Click Start→ My Computer.

Windows Vista®:

Click the Windows Vista Start button → Computer.

If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive, is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.

EST THE DRIVE

• Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.

• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 77.

NSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED ONTO THE SPINDLE

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

CHECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES — See "Using the Hardware Troubleshooter Tool" on page 105.

UN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS —

See

"Dell Diagnostics" on page 79

Troubleshooting 83

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CD and DVD drive problems

NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in

the drive or the CD or DVD.

NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive

CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the

stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the CD/DVD-RW.

URN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC — See "Standby Mode" on

page 32 or search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center for information on power

→

management modes. To access the Help and Support Center, click Start or

HANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE — See the help files for your CD or DVD creation software.

If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray

Ensure that the computer is turned off.

Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive; push firmly until the tray is partially ejected.

Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

• Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.

• Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.

Help and Support.

Hard drive problems

ALLOW THE COMPUTER TO COOL BEFORE TURNING IT ON — A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system

from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.

UN CHECK DISK

Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Right-click

Click

Properties→ Tools→

Click

Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors→ Start

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button →

Right-click

Click

Properties→ Tools→

84 Troubleshooting

My Computer

Local Disk C:

Check Now

Computer

Page 85

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.

Click

Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors→ Start

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

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

Information Guide

NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone connector only. The modem does not operate while it is

connected to a digital telephone network.

CHECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS — If you cannot open your e-mail attachments:

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION

CHECK THE TELEPHONE CONNECTOR

CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL CONNECTOR

USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE

Tools→

Options→

Security

to remove the checkmark.

Product

• Verify that the telephone line is connected to the connector on the modem. (The connector has either a green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.)

• Ensure that you insert the telephone line connector into the modem until it clicks.

• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.

• If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, bypass the devices and connect the modem directly to the telephone wall connector. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.

RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Click Start→ All Programs→ Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is not available on certain computers.)

ERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS

Click

Start→

Modems

Click the COM port for your modem, and then click

Control Panel→

Printers and Other Hardware→ Phone and Modem Options

Properties→ Diagnostics→

Query Modem

→

verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.

If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service provider.

CAN THE COMPUTER FOR SPYWARE — If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently

Troubleshooting 85

Page 86

receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.

Error Messages

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks.

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

Information Guide

Product

If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.

AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE — The touch pad or external mouse may be faulty. For an external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

AD COMMAND OR FILE NAME — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces in the proper

place, and used the correct pathname.

ACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE — The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed. Contact Dell

(

see "Contacting Dell" on page 138

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer (see "Dell Support Utility" on page 82).

ATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot read the data (see "Dell Support Utility" on page 82).

ECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall

the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 116).

ISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in the Dell

Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

RIVE NOT READY — The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it can continue. Install a hard drive in

the hard drive bay (see "Hard Drive" on page 113).

RROR READING PCMCIA CARD — The computer cannot identify the PC Card. Reinsert the card or try another

PC Card (see "Installing a PC Card or an ExpressCard" on page 67).

XTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS CHANGED — The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not match the

memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

HE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION DRIVE — The file that you are trying to copy is too

large to fit on the disk, or the disk is too full. Try copying the file to a different disk or use a larger capacity disk.

FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these

characters in filenames.

ATE A20 FAILURE — A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace

them (see "Memory" on page 116).

ENERAL FAILURE — The operating system is unable to carry out the command. The message is usually followed by

86 Troubleshooting

Page 87

specific information—for example, Printer out of paper. Take the appropriate action.

ARD-DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION ERROR — The computer cannot identify the drive type. Shut down the

computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 113), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

ARD-DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0—The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer.

Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hinge Cover" on page 115), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

ARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer. Shut down the

computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 113), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

ARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer, remove the hard

drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 113), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

NSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable CD or DVD. Insert a

bootable CD or DVD.

NVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-PLEASE RUN SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM — The system configuration

information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate options in the system setup program (see "System Setup Program" on page 99).

EYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard

Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

EYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Restart the computer, and

avoid touching the keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

EYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard

Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

EYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE — For external keyboards or keypads, check the cable connection. Restart the

computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the Stuck Key test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

EMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 116).

EMORY ALLOCATION ERROR — The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the operating system,

another program, or a utility. Shut down the computer, wait 30 seconds, and then restart it. Try to run the program again. If the error message still appears, see the software documentation.

EMORY DATA LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be faulty

or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 116) and, if necessary, replace them.

EMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may

be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 116) and, if necessary, replace

Troubleshooting 87

Page 88

them.

EMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 116) and, if necessary, replace them.

EMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 116) and, if necessary, replace them.

O BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — The computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard drive is your boot device,

ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.

O BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE — The operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell"

on page 138).

O TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the

Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

OT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN — You have too many programs

open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use.

PERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Reinstall the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 113). If the problem

persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

PTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM — The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on

page 138).

REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file.

Remove and then reinstall the program.

Click

Start→

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

Remove

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Control Panel→ Add or Remove Programs

Change/Remove

and follow the prompts on the screen.

SECTOR NOT FOUND — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the hard drive. Run the Microsoft Windows error-checking utility to check the file structure on the hard drive. See the Help and Support Center for instructions. To access the Help and Support

→

Center, click Start or

Help and Support. If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if

possible), and then reformat the hard drive.

EEK ERROR — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard drive.

HUTDOWN FAILURE — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell

Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

IME-OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER — System configuration settings are corrupted. Connect your computer to an

electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to restore the data by entering the system setup program (see "System Setup Program" on page 99). Then immediately exit the program. If the message reappears, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

IME-OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED — The reserve battery that supports the system configuration settings may require

recharging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

88 Troubleshooting

Page 89

TIME- OF- DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM — The time or date stored in the system

setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date and Time options (see "System Setup Program" on page 99).

IMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in

the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

NEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED MODE — The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or a memory

module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY — Insert a disk into the drive and try again.

ARNING: BATTERY IS CRITICALLY LOW — The battery is running out of charge. Replace the battery, or connect

the computer to an electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate hibernate mode or shut down the computer.

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

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

Information Guide

NSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS

Windows XP:

Click

Start→

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

Control Panel

, click

window, click the

Performance and Maintenance

Hardware

tab.

Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button → Control Panel→ System and Maintenance→ 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 continue the desired action.

If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE — If the device was provided by Dell, contact Dell ( "Contacting Dell" on page 138 manufacturer.

NSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS PROPERLY INSERTED INTO THE CONNECTOR

). If the device was provided by a different manufacturer, contact that

Product

see

Keyboard Problems

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

Information Guide

Troubleshooting 89

Product

Page 90

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you perform the various checks.

NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you

attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

External keyboard problems

NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

HECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for

damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.

CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD

Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.

Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.

From the Windows desktop, click

Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.

TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD, CHECK THE INTEGRATED KEYBOARD

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the external keyboard.

Turn on the computer.

From the Windows desktop, click

Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138).

Start→ All Programs→

Accessories→

Notepad

RUN THE KEYBOARD DIAGNOSTICS TESTS — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79). If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell (see Dell" on page 138

"Contacting

Unexpected characters

DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD — Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed

instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

Lockups and Software Problems

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

Information Guide

90 Troubleshooting

Product

Page 91

The computer does not start up

ENSURE THAT THE AC ADAPTER IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET.

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.

URN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your

mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.

ND THE PROGRAM

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

Click

Tas k M ana g e r

Click

Applications

Click the program that is no longer responding.

Click

End Task

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

A program uses an earlier operating system version

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD — The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so it

runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.

Click

Start→

Follow the instructions on the screen.

All Programs→ Accessories→ Program Compatibility Wizard→ Next

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your

mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

Memory Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks.

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

Information Guide

F YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE

Product

• 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 (

see "Memory" on page 116).

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

• Run the

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS

• Reseat the memory modules (see

see "Memory" on page 116).

Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

"Memory" on page 116

) to ensure that your computer is successfully

communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (

• Run the

Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

see "Memory" on page 116).

Network Problems

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

Information Guide

HECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the

network connector on the back of the computer and the network connector.

Product

92 Troubleshooting

Page 93

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR — No light indicates that no network

communication exists. Replace the network cable.

LUG THE A/C POWER ADAPTER INTO THE COMPUTER — If batter power only, the QuickSet utility can disable the

onboard network card to save battery life. For more information on the QuickSet utility, see "Dell™ QuickSet" on page 131.

HECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network

to verify that your network settings are correct and that the tnetwork is functioning.

For more information on the different types of networks, see "Setting Up and Using Networks" on page 59.

PC Card or ExpressCard Problems

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

Information Guide

HECK THE CARD — Ensure that the card is properly inserted into the connector.

NSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS — Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the

Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.

F YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED CARD —

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A CARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL — Contact the PC Card manufacturer.

Contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 138

Product

Power Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks.

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

Information Guide

HECK THE POWER LIGHT — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is

blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit standby mode. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer.

HARGE THE BATTERY — The battery charge may be depleted.

Reinstall the battery.

Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer.

NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on how

often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer.

HECK THE BATTERY STATUS LIGHT — If the battery status light flashes orange or is a steady orange the battery

charge is low or depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Product

Troubleshooting 93

Page 94

If the battery status light flashes green and orange, the battery is too hot to charge. Shut down the computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperature.

If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. "Contacting Dell" on page 138

CHECK THE BATTERY TEMPERATURE — If the battery temperature is below 0° C (32° F), the computer will not start up.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such

as a lamp.

HECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that

the light is on.

ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power protection devices, power strips,

and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other

appliances.

DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 33.

ESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, reinstall

the memory modules

(

see "Memory" on page 116).

Contact Dell (see

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer

Your computer is designed to use a 65-W or 90-W AC adapter. However, for optimum system performance, you should always use a 90-W AC adapter.

Using less-powerful AC adapters, including the 65-W AC adapter, will cause you to receive a message.

WARNING

Docking Power Considerations

Due to the extra power consumption when a computer is docked to the Dell D/Dock, normal computer operation is not possible on battery power alone. Ensure that the AC adapter is connected to your computer when the computer is docked to the Dell D/Dock.

Docking While the Computer Is Running

If a computer is connected to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port while the computer is running, presence of the docking device is ignored until the AC adapter is connected to the computer.

AC Power Loss While the Computer Is Docked

If a computer loses AC power while docked to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port, the computer immediately goes into low-performance mode.

94 Troubleshooting

Page 95

Printer Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks.

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

Information Guide

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s manufacturer.

NSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —

Product

• See the printer documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

ERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click

Start→

If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.

Click

Properties→

LPT1 (Printer Port)

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See the printer documentation for instructions.

Control Panel→

Ports

Printers and Other Hardware→

. For a parallel printer, ensure that the

. For a USB printer, ensure that the

View installed printers or fax printers

Print to the following port(s):

setting is

USB

Scanner Problems

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

Information Guide

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer.

HECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting

information.

NLOCK THE SCANNER — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

ESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

• See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS — Click Start→ Control Panel→ Printers and Other Hardware→ Scanners and Cameras. If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

EINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER — See the scanner documentation for instructions.

Product

Troubleshooting 95

Page 96

Sound and Speaker Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks.

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

Information Guide

Product

No sound from integrated speakers

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your

screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.

EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 104.

No sound from external speakers

ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the setup diagram supplied with the

speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.

DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of

your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

ISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Sound from the speakers is automatically

disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such

as a lamp.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for

interference.

EINSTALL THE AUDIO DRIVER —

UN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79.

NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been listening

to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.

See

"Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 104.

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the

headphone connector.

DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of

your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS

Click

Start→

Try adjusting the settings.

96 Troubleshooting

Control Panel→

Printers and Other Hardware→

Mouse

Page 97

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse directly to the computer.

TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE, CHECK THE TOUCH PAD

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the mouse.

Turn on the computer.

At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it.

If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.

CHECK THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM SETTINGS — Verify that the system setup program lists the correct device for the pointing device option. (The computer automatically recognizes a USB mouse without making any setting adjustments.) For more information on using the system setup program, see "System Setup Program" on page 99.

EST THE MOUSE CONTROLLER — To test the mouse controller (which affects pointer movement) and the

operation of the touch pad or mouse buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

EINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 104.

Video and Display Problems

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks.

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

Information Guide

Product

If the display is blank

NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer supports, it is

recommended that you attach an external monitor to your computer.

HECK THE BATTERY — If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted.

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such

as a lamp.

HECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that

the light is on.

ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power protection devices, power strips,

and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — Search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center. To

→

access the Help and Support Center, click Start or

WITCH THE VIDEO IMAGE — If your computer is attached to an external monitor or video projector, press

<Fn><F8> to switch the video image to the display or video projector.

Help and Support.

Troubleshooting 97

Page 98

If the display is difficult to read

ADJUST THE BRIGHTNESS — Press <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key.

OVE THE EXTERNAL SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR — If your external speaker system

includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other

appliances.

OTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor

picture quality.

DJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS

Click

Start→

Click the area you want to change or click the

Try different settings for

RUN THE VIDEO DIAGNOSTICS TESTS — If no error message appears and you still have a display problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79). Then

SEE "ERROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see "Error Messages" on page 86.

Control Panel→

Color quality

contact Dell (see

Appearance and Themes

Display

and

Screen resolution

"Contacting Dell" on page 138

icon.

If only part of the display is readable

CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR

Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.

Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls.

If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 138

Contact Dell

98 Troubleshooting

Page 99

System Setup Program

Overview

NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in the system setup

program, thus overriding options that you set through the system setup program. (An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through the system setup program.) For more information on configuring features for your operating system, see the Help and Support Center. To access the Help and

→

Support Center, click Start or

You can use the system setup program as follows:

• To set or change user-selectable features—for example, your computer password

• To verify information about the computer's current configuration, such as the amount of system memory

After you set up the computer, run the system setup program to familiarize yourself with your system configuration information and optional settings. You may want to write down the information for future reference.

The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer, such as:

• System configuration

• Boot order

• Boot (start-up) configuration and docking-device configuration settings

• Basic device-configuration settings

• System security and hard-drive password settings

Help and Support.

NOTE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do not

change the system setup settings. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly.

Viewing the System Setup Screens

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

System Setup Program 99

Page 100

System Setup Screens

NOTE: For information about a specific item on a system setup screen, highlight the item and see the Help area on

the screen.

On each screen, the system setup options are listed at the left. To the right of each option is the setting or value for that option. You can change settings that appear as white type on the screen. Options or values that you cannot change (because they are determined by the computer) appear less bright.

The upper-right corner of the screen displays help information for the currently highlighted option; the lower-right corner displays information about the computer. System-setup key functions are listed across the bottom of the screen.

Commonly Used Options

Certain options require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect.

Changing the Boot Sequence

The boot sequence, or boot order, tells the computer where to look to find the software needed to start the operating system. You can control the boot sequence and enable/disable devices using the Boot Order page of the system setup program.

NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a One-Time Boot" on page 101.

The Boot Order page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your computer, including but not limited to the following:

•

Diskette Drive

•

Modular bay HDD

•

Internal HDD

•

Optical Drive

During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device for the operating system start-up files. When the computer finds the files, it stops searching and starts the operating system.

To control the boot devices, select (highlight) a device by pressing the down-arrow or up-arrow key, and then enable or disable the device or change its order in the list.

• To enable or disable a device, highlight the item and press the space bar. Enabled items appear as white and display a small triangle to the left; disabled items appear blue or dimmed without a triangle.

• To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and then press <u> or <d> (not case-sensitive) to move the highlighted device up or down.

Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit the system setup program.

100 System Setup Program

Dell PP04X User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Dell™ Latitude™ D531

Contents

Finding Information

About Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

Charge Gauge

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Power Management Modes

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Configuring Power Management Settings

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

System Functions

Battery

Wireless

Display Functions

Power Management

Speaker Functions

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

Using the Display

Display Properties

Adjusting Brightness

Switching the Video Image

Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Using ATI Catalyst® Control Center

Launching Catalyst Control Center

Using an External Monitor or Projector

Using an External Monitor

Extending Your Computer Display

Changing Your Primary Display

Saving Battery Power

Using Multimedia

Playing CDs or DVDs

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

If the Computer Is Turned Off or in Hibernate Mode

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video and Standard Audio

Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

Setting Up and Using Networks

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

Setting Up a Network

Wireless Local Area Network

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem

Connecting to a WLAN

Mobile Broadband (WWAN)

Establishing a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

Managing Your Network Settings

Using Cards