Dell PP04X User Manual

Dell™ Latitude™ D531

User’s Guide

Model PP04X

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

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates 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® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2007–2008 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, 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 of Microsoft Corporation; EMC is the registered trademark of EMC Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by 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

Contents

1	Finding Information
2	About Your Computer
	Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15
	Left Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	18
	Right Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20
	Back View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20
	Bottom View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	30
	Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	30
	Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	30
	Charge Gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	30
	Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	31
	Conserving Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	31
	Power Management Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
	Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
	Hibernate Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
	Configuring Power Management Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	33
	Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	33
	Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	33

Contents 3

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

5 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

			Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
			Key Combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
			System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
			Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	36
			Wireless. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	36
			Display Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	36
			Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	36
			Speaker Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	37
			Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	37
			Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	41
			Using ATI Catalyst® Control Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	42
			Launching Catalyst Control Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	43
			Using an External Monitor or Projector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	43
			Using an External Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	44
			Extending Your Computer Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	44
			Changing Your Primary Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	45
			Saving Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	45
	7		Using Multimedia
			Playing CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	49
			Copying CDs and DVDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	50
			How to Copy a CD or DVD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	51
4		Contents

Using Blank CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	51
Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	52
Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	53
Adjusting the Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	53
If the Computer Is Turned Off or in Hibernate Mode . . . . . . . . . . . .	54
Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	54
S-Video and Standard Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	55
Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	56
Enabling the Display Settings for a TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	56

8 Setting Up and Using Networks

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	59
Setting Up a Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	60
Wireless Local Area Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	60
What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . .	60
Checking Your Wireless Network Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	60
Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem . . . . . . . . . . . .	61
Connecting to a WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	62
Mobile Broadband (WWAN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	64
Establishing a Mobile Broadband Network Connection . . . . . . . . . .	64
Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	64
Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	65
Managing Your Network Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	65
Microsoft® Windows® Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	65

9 Using Cards

Card Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67
PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67
PC Card Blanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67
Extended PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67

Installing a PC Card or an ExpressCard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	69
Removing a PC Card or Blank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	69

Contents 5

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	73
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	74
Enabling the TPM Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	74
Computer Tracking Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	74
If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	75

11 Cleaning Your Computer
Computer, Keyboard, and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	77
Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	77
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	77
Cleaning a Non-Optical Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	77
Cleaning an Optical Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	78
Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	78
CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	78

12 Troubleshooting

Dell Technical Update Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	79
Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	79
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	79
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . .	79
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media . . . .	80
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	80
Dell Support Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	82
Accessing the Dell Support Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	82
Clicking the Dell Support Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	83
Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	83

6 Contents

Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	83
CD and DVD drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	84
Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	84
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	85
Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	86
IEEE 1394 Device Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	89
Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	89
External keyboard problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	90
Unexpected characters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	90
Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	90
The computer does not start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	91
The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	91
A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly . . . . . . . . . . . .	91
A program uses an earlier operating system version . . . . . . . . . . .	91
A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	91
Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	91
Memory Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	92
Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	92
PC Card or ExpressCard Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	93
Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	93
Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	94
Docking Power Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	94
Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	95
Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	95
Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	96
No sound from integrated speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	96
No sound from external speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	96
No sound from headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	96
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	96
Video and Display Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	97
If the display is blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	97
If the display is difficult to read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	98
If only part of the display is readable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	98

Contents 7

13 System Setup Program
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	99
Viewing the System Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	99
System Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	100
Commonly Used Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	100
Changing the Boot Sequence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	100
Performing a One-Time Boot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	101
Changing COM Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	101

14 Reinstalling Software

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	103
What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	103
Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	103
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	104
Using the Hardware Troubleshooter Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	105
Restoring Your Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	106
Using Microsoft Windows System Restore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	106
Using the Operating System Media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	107

15 Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	111
Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	111
Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	111
Before Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	112
Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	113
Returning a Hard Drive to Dell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	115
Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	115
Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	116
DIMM A Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	117
DIMM B Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	119

8 Contents

	Mini-Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	121
	Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	124
	Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . .	125
	Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	126
	About the Media Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	127
	About the Device Security Screw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	127
	Removing and Installing Media Bay Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	128
16	Dell™ QuickSet
17 Traveling With Your Computer
	Identifying Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	133
	Packing the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	133
	Travel Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	134
	Traveling by Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	134
18	Getting Help
	Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	135
	Technical Support and Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	135
	DellConnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	136
	Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	136
	AutoTech Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	137
	Automated Order-Status Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	137
	Problems With Your Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	137
	Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	137
	Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	137
	Before You Call. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	138
	Contacting Dell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	138

Contents 9

19	Specifications
20	Appendix
	FCC Notice (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	149
	FCC Class B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	149
	Macrovision Product Notice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	150
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .		151

10 Contents

1

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 and Utilities Media (also known as the ResourceCD)
• Drivers for my computer	Documentation and drivers are already installed on your
• My device documentation	computer. You can use the media to reinstall drivers (see
• Notebook System Software (NSS)	"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 technical-
	reference 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

What Are You Looking For?	Find It Here
• How to set up my computer	Quick Reference Guide

•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	NOTE: This document may be optional and may not ship with
	• How to open my computer cover
		your computer.
	• Specifications	NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at
	• How to contact Dell	support.dell.com.
	• Warranty information	Dell™ Product Information Guide

•Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

•Safety instructions

•Regulatory information

•Ergonomics information

•End User License Agreement

•How to remove and replace parts

•Specifications

•How to configure system settings

•How to troubleshoot and solve problems

User’s Guide

Microsoft Windows Help and Support Center

1 Click Start or → Help and Support→ Dell User and System Guides→System Guides.

2 Click the User’s Guide for your computer in the list of online documentation.

12 Finding Information

What Are You Looking For?	Find It Here
• Service Tag and Express Service Code	Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License
• Microsoft Windows License Label	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:

1 Go to support.dell.com, select your region or business segment, and enter your Service Tag.

2 Select Drivers & Downloads and click Go.

3 Click your operating system and search for the keyword

Notebook System Software.

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary depending on your selections.

Finding Information		13

	What Are You Looking For?	Find It Here
	• Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints	Dell Support Utility
	• Frequently asked questions, hot topics, and general	The Dell Support Utility is an automated upgrade and
	health of your computing environment	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.
	• How to use Windows operating systems	Windows Help and Support Center
	• How to work with programs and files	1 Click the Start button or	→ Help and Support.
	• How to personalize my desktop	2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and
		click the arrow icon.
		3 Click the topic that describes your problem.
		4 Follow the instructions on the screen.
	• Information on network activity, the Power Management	Dell QuickSet Help
	Wizard, hot keys, and other items controlled by Dell	To view Dell QuickSet Help, right-click the QuickSet
	QuickSet.
		icon in the Microsoft® Windows® taskbar.
		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).

14 Finding Information

2

About Your Computer

Front View

1

2

3

11

10

4

9

5

6

		8	7
1	display latch	2	display	3	power button
4	device status lights	5	speakers (2)	6	keyboard
7	touch pad	8	touch pad buttons	9	keyboard status lights
10	wireless enable/disable button	11	ambient light sensor

About Your Computer		15

D I S P L A Y L A T C H — Keeps the display closed.

D I S P L A Y — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on page 41.

P O W E R B U T T O N — 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).

D E V I C E S T A T U S L I G H T S

16 About Your Computer

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® wireless technology is enabled. To enable or disable Bluetooth wireless technology or other wireless devices, press the 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.

S P E A K E R S — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume-control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Adjusting the Volume" on page 53.

K E Y B O A R D — 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.

T O U C H P A D — Provides the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 37 for more information.

T O U C H P A D B U T T O N S — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Touch Pad" on page 37 for more information. W I R E L E S S E N A B L E /D I S A B L E B U T T O N — Toggles the Bluetooth or WLAN networking technology on and off.

A M B I E N T L I G H T S E N S O R — 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

K E Y B O A R D S T A T U S L I G H T S

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

9 Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

A

Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

Left Side View

1

2

3

4

5

6

18 About Your Computer

1	security cable slot	2	air vent	3	IEEE 1394 connector
4	audio connectors (2)	5	PC Card slot	6	hard drive

S E C U R I T Y C A B L E S L O T — 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.

A I R V E N T — 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 C O N N E C T O R — Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394a high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras.

A U D I O C O N N E C T O R S

About Your Computer		19

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the	connector.

PC CA R D S L O T — 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.

H A R D D R I V E — Stores software and data.

Right Side View

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

M E D I A B A Y — 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.

D E V I C E L A T C H R E L E A S E — Releases the media bay device. See "About the Media Bay" on page 127 for instructions.

USB C O N N E C T O R S

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

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

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

N E T W O R K C O N N E C T O R (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.

S-V I D E O TV-O U T C O N N E C T O R

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

USB C O N N E C T O R S

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

M O D E M C O N N E C T O R (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.

S E R I A L C O N N E C T O R

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

VGA C O N N E C T O R

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

AC A D A P T E R C O N N E C T O R — 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.

A I R V E N T S — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer

22 About Your 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.

Bottom View

1

2

3

7

6

		5	4
1	battery charge gauge	2	battery-bay latch release	3	battery
4	memory module/coin-cell battery	5	docking device slot	6	air vents
	cover
7	hard drive

B A T T E R Y C H A R G E G A U G E — Provides information on the battery charge. For more information, see "Using a Battery" on page 29.

B A T T E R Y -B A Y L A T C H R E L E A S E — Releases the battery. See "Using a Battery" on page 29 for instructions.

B A T T E R Y — 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.

About Your Computer		23

M E M O R Y M O D U L E /C O I N -C E L L B A T T E R Y C O V E R — Covers the compartment that contains one memory module and the coin-cell battery. For additional information, see "Adding and Replacing Parts" on page 111.

D O C K I N G D E V I C E S L O T — 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.

A I R V E N T S — 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.

H A R D D R I V E — Stores software and data.

24 About Your Computer

3

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:

1Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

2When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.

3On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer→ Next.

Transferring Information to a New Computer		25

4On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD→ Next.

5When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do not click Next at this time.

To copy data from the old computer:

1On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System media.

2On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks.

3Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings.

4On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.

5On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer→ Next.

6On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

7On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer and click Next. After the information has been copied, the Completing the Collection Phase screen appears.

8Click Finish.

To transfer data to the new computer:

1On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.

2On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next.

The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer. When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished screen appears.

3Click Finished and restart the new computer.

Using the Wizard Without the Operating System Media

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

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

1Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

2When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.

3On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer→ Next.

4On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following drive→ Next.

5Insert the removable media, such as a writable CD, and click OK.

26 Transferring Information to a New Computer

6 When the disk creation completes and the Now go to your old computer message appears, do not click Next.

7 Go to the old computer.

To copy data from the old computer:

1On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

2Click the Start→ Run.

3In the Open field on the Run window, browse to the path for fastwiz (on the appropriate removable media) and click OK.

4On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.

5On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer→ Next.

6On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

7On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer and click Next. After the information has been copied, the Completing the Collection Phase screen appears.

8Click Finish.

To transfer data to the new computer:

1On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.

2On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next. Follow the instructions on the screen.

The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer. When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished screen appears.

3Click Finished and restart the new computer.

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® XP Operating System?).

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

Windows Vista®

1Click the Windows Vista Start button, , click Transfer files and settings→ Start Windows Easy

Transfer.

2In the User Account Control dialog box, click Continue.

3Click Start a new transfer or Continue a transfer in progress.

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

Transferring Information to a New Computer		27

28 Transferring Information to a New Computer

4

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

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 Product Information Guide.

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.

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 releasing the status button)

•Battery health (check by pressing and holding the status button)

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