Dell PP05L User Manual 2

Download

Dell™ Inspiron™ 600m

Owner’s Manual

Model PP05L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the

problem.

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

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

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell TravelLite, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, PowerConnect, PowerEdge,

PowerVault, PowerApp, DellNet, and Latitude are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and is used

by Dell Inc. under license; EMC is a registered trademark of the EMC Corporation.

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

Model PP05L

April 2005 P/N T8109 Rev. A02

Contents

1 A Tour of Your Computer

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

2 Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

E-Mail Problems

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

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

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

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

Connecting a Parallel Printer Connecting a USB Printer

Printer Problems

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

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

Setting Up the Docking Device to Connect to a Network

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors Line Conditioners

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

. . . . . . . . . . . . 26

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Turning Off Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Contents 3

3 Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

Using a Battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Battery Performance Checking the Battery Charge Charging the Battery Removing a Battery Installing a Battery Removing and Installing a Reserve Battery Storing a Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

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

Power Problems

About the Module Bay

Checking the Charge on the Second Battery

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running

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

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

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

. . . . . . 37

. . . . . . . 38

4 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Keyboard Shortcuts

System Functions Battery CD or DVD Tray Display Functions Radios (Including Wireless Networking and Bluetooth

Wireless Technology) Power Management Speaker Functions Microsoft

Touch Pad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

4 Contents

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

External Keyboard Problems

Unexpected Characters

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

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

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

5 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

CD and DVD Problems

If you cannot play a CD or DVD If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive tray If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound If the CD-RW drive stops writing

Sound and Speaker Problems

If you have a problem with integrated speakers If you have a problem with external speakers

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs Helpful Tips

Connecting a Television to the Computer

S-Video Connection Composite Video Connection Enabling the Display Settings for a Television

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . 48

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Network Setup Wizard

Network Problems

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

Determining Your Network Type Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Windows® XP . . . . . 59

7 Solving Problems

Finding Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Accessing Help

Error Messages

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

Contents 5

Video and Display Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

If the display is blank If the display is difficult to read If only part of the display is readable

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

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

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

Scanner Problems

Drive Problems

If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive If you have problems with a hard drive

PC Card Problems

General Program Problems

A program crashes A program stops responding Error messages appear

If Your Computer Gets Wet

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

Resolving Other Technical Problems

Drivers

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

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows XP

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

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

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

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

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

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

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

Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

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

8 Adding and Replacing Parts

6 Contents

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

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

Adding Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Adding a Mini PCI Card

Replacing the Hard Drive

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

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

9 Appendix

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Standard Settings

Viewing the System Setup Screens System Setup Screens Commonly Used Options

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

Macrovision Product Notice

Contacting Dell

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

. . . . . . . . . . 98

. . . . . . . . . . . . 98

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Contents 7

8 Contents

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

keyboard status lights

mute button

volume control buttons

touch pad buttons

speaker

DISPLAY — For more information about your display, see the Dell Inspiron help file. To access the help

file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

POWER BUTTON — Press the power button to turn on the computer or exit a power management mode.

For more information about power management, see the Dell Inspiron help file. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

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

system shutdown (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27) 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).

display latch

speaker

display

power button

device status lights

keyboard

touch pad

Windows® operating

A Tour of Your Computer 9

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in a power management mode.

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

10 A Tour of Your Computer

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

light is flashing.

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

Turns on when Bluetooth

NOTE: Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional feature, so the

wireless technology is enabled.

light turns on only if you ordered the internal card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer. For more information, see the documentation that came with your card.

To turn off only the functionality of the Bluetooth wireless technology, right-click the icon in the system tray and select Disable Bluetooth Radio.

To quickly enable or disable all wireless devices, press <Fn><F2>.

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: Solid orange:

–

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

The battery charge is low.

The battery charge is critically low.

on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" on page 41.

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse. See "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" on page 41

for more information.

SPEAKERS — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume control buttons, mute

button, or volume-control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" on page 41.

DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed.

TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad"

on page 41 for more information.

VOLUME CONTROL BUTTONS — Press these buttons to adjust the volume.

MUTE BUTTON — Press this button to turn off the volume.

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

A Tour of Your Computer 11

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Left Side View

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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.

PC Card slot

smart card slot

air vents (2)

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

computer from overheating.

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.

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

your Dell™ 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.

ARD SLOT — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter. The computer ships with

PC C

a plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see the Dell Inspiron help file. To access the help file, see"Accessing Help" on page 65.

12 A Tour of Your Computer

security cable slot

infrared sensor

hard drive

audio connectors (2)

SMART CARD SLOT — Supports one smart card. For more information, see the Dell Inspiron help file. To

access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

NOTE: Depending on your computer’s configuration, the smart card slot may not be available.

INFRARED SENSOR — Lets you transfer files from your computer to another infrared-compatible device

without using cable connections.

When you receive your computer, the sensor is disabled. You can use the system setup program to enable the sensor. For information on transferring data, see the Help and Support Center or the documentation that came with your infrared-compatible device.

AUDIO CONNECTORS

Attach a microphone to the connector.

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

A Tour of Your Computer 13

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

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.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Right Side View

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.

14 A Tour of Your Computer

security cable slot module bay

device latch release

MODULE BAY — You can install devices such as an optical drive or a Dell TravelLite™ module in the

module bay. For more information, see "About the Module Bay" on page 36.

DEVICE LATCH RELEASE — Releases the module bay device. See "About the Module Bay" on page 36

for instructions.

Back View

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before you

disconnect an external device.

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.

modem connector (RJ-11) (optional)

network connector (RJ-45)

S-video TV-out connector

USB connectors (2)

parallel connector

video connector

serial connector

air vents

AC adapter connector

A Tour of Your Computer 15

USB CONNECTORS

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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.

S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

MODEM

CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

16 A Tour of Your Computer

Connects your computer to a TV. For more information, see "Connecting a Television to the Computer" on page 50.

If you ordered the 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 "Accessing Help" on page 65.

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 green and yellow lights next to the connector indicate activity for both wired and wireless network communications.

For information on using the network adapter, see the device user’s guide supplied with your computer. See "Accessing Help" on page 65.

PARALLEL CONNECTOR

Connects a parallel device, such as a printer.

CONNECTOR

VIDEO

Connects an external monitor. For more information, see the Dell Inspiron help file. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

SERIAL

CONNECTOR

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

A Tour of Your Computer 17

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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 from overheating.

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.

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.

18 A Tour of Your Computer

Bottom View

memory module cover

battery charge gauge

battery

hard drive

Mini PCI card cover

fan

docking device slot

battery-bay latch release

MEMORY MODULE COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the memory module(s). See "Adding

Memory" on page 81.

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

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE — Provides information on the battery charge. See "Using a Battery" on page 29.

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

an electrical outlet. See "Using a Battery" on page 29.

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

that came with your docking device for additional information.

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

computer from overheating.

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.

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.

INI PCI CARD COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the Mini PCI card. See "Adding a Mini

PCI Card" on page 83.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

A Tour of Your Computer 19

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

20 A Tour of Your Computer

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP), such as AOL or MSN. Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options:

• Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a phone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections.

• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing phone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your phone on the same line simultaneously.

• Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line.

If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an AOL or MSN connection:

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

Double-click the

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP:

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

Click the

The

Start

New Connection Wizard

MSN Explorer

button and click

appears.

AOL

icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

Internet Explorer

Click

Connect to the Internet

Setting Up Your Computer 21

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

• If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click

service providers (ISPs)

Choose from a list of Internet

• If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click

• If you have a CD, click

Click

If you selected

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

Set up my connection manually

, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the

instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

Click the appropriate option under click

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

If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only. Connecting the modem to a digital

telephone network damages the modem.

NOTICE: Modem and network connectors look similar. Do not plug a telephone line into the

network connector.

NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your modem is functioning properly. If

you are sure that your modem is working properly and you still experience problems, contact your ISP.

HECK THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to

a telephone. Listen for a dial tone. Ensure that you have touchtone telephone service. Try connecting the modem to a different telephone wall jack.

Slow connection speeds can be caused by telephone noise as well as by telephone line or network conditions. Contact your telephone company or network administrator for more information.

ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — If you have other telephone devices

sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone line to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack.

HECK THE CONNECTION — Verify that the telephone line is connected to the modem.

HECK THE TELEPHONE LINE — Try using a different telephone line. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft)

or more in length, try a shorter one.

RREGULAR DIAL TONE — If you have voice mail service, you might hear an irregular dial tone when you

have messages. Contact your telephone company for instructions on restoring a dial tone.

How do you want to connect to the Internet?

, and then

22 Setting Up Your Computer

TURN OFF CALL WAITING (CATCH-PHONE)— See your telephone directory for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking connection properties.

Click the

Click then click

In the proper code as listed in your telephone directory.

Click

Close the

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

Click the

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click communicating with Windows.

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

Start

button and click

Printers and Other Hardware

Edit...

Edit Location

Apply

and click OK.

Phone and Modems Options Control Panel

Start

Printers and Other Hardware

Modems

Properties

window, ensure that

button and click

tab.

, click the

Control Panel

window.

Control Panel

Diagnostics

, click

Phone and Modem Options

To disable call waiting, dial:

window.

and click

Phone and Modem Options

tab, and then click

, click the

is checked, and then select the

Query Modem

Dialing Rules

to verify that the modem is

tab, and

E-Mail Problems

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — With the Microsoft Outlook® Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a check mark next to it, click the check mark to remove it and connect to the Internet.

Setting Up a Printer

NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer.

See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to:

• Obtain and install updated drivers.

• Connect the printer to the computer.

• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.

• Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance.

Printer Cable

Your printer connects to your computer with either a USB cable or a parallel cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the computer box.

Setting Up Your Computer 23

Connecting a Parallel Printer

Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.

Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27).

NOTICE: For best results, use a 3-m (10-ft) or shorter parallel cable.

Attach the parallel printer cable to the parallel connector on the computer and tighten the two screws. Attach the cable to the connector on the printer and snap the two clips into the two notches.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the window appears, click

Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.

screws (2)

parallel printer cable

Cancel

parallel connector on computer

connector on printer

notches (2)

Add New Hardware Wizard

clips (2)

24 Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting a USB Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.

Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.

Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.

Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.

USB connector on computer

USB connector

USB printer cable

on printer

Printer Problems

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS — Ensure that the printer cable is properly connected to the computer.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another

device, such as a lamp.

NSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON — See the documentation supplied with the printer.

ERIFY THAT WINDOWS

Click the

Click

LPT1 (Printer Port)

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 74.

Start Control Panel Printers and Other Hardware View installed printers or fax printers Properties,

RECOGNIZES THE PRINTER

button.

and then click the

. If the printer model is listed, right-click the printer icon.

Ports

tab. Ensure that the

Print to the following port(s):

Setting Up Your Computer 25

setting is

Setting Up the Docking Device to Connect to a Network

NOTE: A network adapter is also referred to as a network interface controller (NIC).

NOTICE: Do not install a network adapter or a network adapter/modem combination PC Card until you

complete the docking device setup.

NOTICE: To prevent serious operating system problems, do not connect your computer to a docking

device until the Windows operating system setup on the computer is complete.

A docking device allows you to more fully integrate your portable computer into a desktop environment.

For instructions and details on setting up a docking device, refer to the documentation that

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

came packaged with the device.

Power Protection Devices

Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures:

• Surge protectors

• Line conditioners

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Surge Protectors

Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help to prevent damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or following power interruptions. The level of protection is usually commensurate with the cost of the surge protector. Some surge protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain types of damage. Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge protector. A device with a higher joule rating offers more protection. Compare joule ratings to determine the relative effectiveness of different devices.

NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or power interruptions

caused by nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in your area, disconnect the telephone line from the telephone wall jack and disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet.

Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem protection. See the surge protector documentation for modem connection instructions.

NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the network cable from

the network wall jack during electrical storms.

Line Conditioners

NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.

Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level.

26 Setting Up Your Computer

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage.

NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other

devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection.

A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices contain a battery that provides temporary power to connected devices when AC power is interrupted. The battery charges while AC power is available. See the UPS manufacturer documentation for information on battery operating time and to ensure that the device is approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Turning Off Your Computer

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

system shutdown, as described next, rather than by pressing the power button.

NOTE: As an alternative to turning off your computer, you can set your computer to enter standby or

hibernate mode.

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the

Turn Off Computer

In the

Turn off computer

window, click

Turn o f f

The computer turns off after the shutdown process finishes.

Start

button, and then click

Setting Up Your Computer 27

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

28 Setting Up Your Computer

Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

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

Product Information Guide.

Use a battery to power the computer when the computer is not connected to an electrical outlet. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.

NOTE: Battery operating time (the time it 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.

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. With average usage, you may expect from 3 to 4 hours from a single, fully charged battery. You can install an optional second battery in the module bay to significantly increase operating time. For more information about the second battery, see "About the Module Bay" on page 36.

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

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

• Using optical drives, especially DVD and CD-RW drives

• Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, or USB devices

• Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs, such as 3D games

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode

You can check the battery charge on the bottom of 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 lithium-ion battery is designed to work with your Dell™ computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.

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 a lithium-ion battery. Read the safety instructions for battery disposal in the Product Information Guide.

Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices 29

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, Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter window and icon, the battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge.

For more information about checking the charge on the second battery, see "About the Module Bay" on page 36.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter.

The Battery Meter screen displays status, charge level, and charge completion time for the primary and secondary batteries in your computer.

NOTE: Dell recommends that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD.

The following icons appear in the Battery Meter screen:

The computer or docking device is running on battery power.

The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is charging.

The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is fully charged.

For more information about QuickSet, right-click the 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, double-click the icon on the taskbar. For more information on the Power Meter tab, see the

Dell Inspiron help file. To access the help file, see page 65.

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

Charge Gauge

Press 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 Batteries and Module Bay Devices

Health Gauge

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. To check the battery health, 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 "Specifications" on page 89 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 module bay. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.

A low-battery warning occurs when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer beeps once, indicating that minimal battery operating time remains. During that time, the speaker beeps periodically. 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. For more information on low-battery alarms, see the

Dell Inspiron help file. To access the help file, see "Accessing

Help" on page 65.

Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices 31

Charging the Battery

NOTE: The AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately 1 hour with the

computer turned off. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer as long as you like. The battery internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.

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.

Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and allow the computer and the battery to

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

cool to room temperature. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue charging the battery.

For more information on resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 35.

Removing a Battery

For more information about removing the second battery, see "About the Module Bay" on page 36.

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

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect it from the electrical

outlet, and disconnect the modem from the telephone wall jack.

NOTICE: If you choose to replace the battery with the computer in standby mode, you have up to

90 seconds to complete the battery replacement before the computer shuts down and loses any unsaved data.

Ensure that the computer is turned off, disconnected from an electrical outlet, and disconnected from the telephone wall jack.

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

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

32 Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

Installing a Battery

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

Product Information Guide.

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 lithium-ion battery is designed to work with your Dell™ computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.

Slide the battery into the bay until the latch release clicks.

For more information about installing the second battery, see "About the Module Bay" on page 36.

Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices 33

Removing and Installing a Reserve Battery

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If your computer does not use a reserve battery, it uses a coin-cell battery. The coin-cell battery

is not a replaceable part.

See "Removing a Battery" on page 32.

Remove the reserve battery cover.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Pull the reserve battery out of its compartment, and disconnect the reserve battery cable from the connector.

reserve battery cable

34 Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

connector

reserve battery

Connect the reserve battery cable to the connector in the reserve battery compartment.

Place the reserve battery in the compartment, and replace the reserve battery cover.

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 before you use it.

Power Problems

CHECK 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.

CHECK 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.

If the battery status light flashes green and orange, the battery is too hot to charge. Turn off the computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperature.

Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices 35

If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. See

on page 100

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. Make sure that the AC adapter is a Dell AC adapter that is designed to work with your computer.

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 the Dell Inspiron help file or search for the keyword standby in

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

the Help and Support Center. To access help see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

ESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank,

reseat the memory modules, see "Adding Memory" on page 81.

About the Module Bay

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

Product Information Guide.

You can install devices such as a floppy drive, CD drive, CD-RW drive, DVD drive, CD-RW/DVD drive, DVD+RW, second battery, or second hard drive in the module bay.

"Contacting Dell"

Checking the Charge on the Second Battery

Before you install a second battery, press 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.

36 Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

status button on the battery charge gauge

second battery (bottom)

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, place them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in

the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.

Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.

device latch release

Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices 37

Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the device latch release in so that it is flush with the computer.

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If the device screw is not installed, you can remove and install devices while the computer is

running and connected to a docking device (docked).

Double-click the

Click

Stop

Click the device you want to eject.

NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, place them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in

the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.

Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.

38 Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

Safely Remove Hardware

and wait for the operating system to confirm that the device has stopped.

icon on the taskbar.

device latch release

Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.

Insert the new device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and push the device latch release in so that it is flush with the computer. Windows XP automatically recognizes the new device.

If necessary, enter your password to unlock your computer.

Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices 39

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

40 Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

NOTE: When you connect an external keyboard or keypad to the computer, the keypad is disabled.

NOTE: You can change options for using the numeric keypad in the system setup program.

The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right side of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, press <Num Lock> to enable the numeric keypad, and then hold down <Fn> and press the desired key.

FILE LOCATION: C:\data\Temp\Benz\T8109c42.fm

DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 4/27/05 – FOR PROOF ONLY

Last Updated - 3/23/2005 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 41

FILE LOCATION: C:\data\Temp\Benz\T8109c42.fm

Keyboard Shortcuts

System Functions

<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Windows Task Manager window.

<Num Lock> Enables and disables the numeric keypad.

<Fn><Num Lock> Enables and disables the scroll lock.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Battery

<Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter.

CD or DVD Tray

<Fn><F10> Ejects the tray out of the drive.

Display Functions

<Fn><F8> Switches the video image to the next display in the

<Fn> and up-arrow key

<Fn> and downarrow key

Radios (Including Wireless Networking and Bluetooth

following sequence: the integrated display only, the integrated display and an external CRT monitor simultaneously, an external CRT monitor only, the integrated display and an external DVI monitor simultaneously, and an external DVI monitor only.

Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

Wireless Technology)

<Fn><F2> Enables and disables radios, including wireless

DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 4/27/05 – FOR PROOF ONLY

42 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

networking and Bluetooth wireless technology.

FILE LOCATION: C:\data\Temp\Benz\T8109c42.fm

Power Management

<Fn><Esc> Activates the power management mode of your choice.

You can program this keyboard shortcut on the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window.

Speaker Functions

If no sound comes from the speakers, press <Fn><End> and adjust the volume.

<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 Functions

Windows logo key and <m>

Windows logo key and <Shift><m>

Windows logo key and <e>

Windows logo key and <r>

Windows logo key and <f>

Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f>

Windows logo key and <Pause>

DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 4/27/05 – FOR PROOF ONLY

Minimizes all open windows.

Maximizes all windows.

Runs Windows Explorer.

Opens the Run dialog box.

Opens the Search Results dialog box.

Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if the computer is connected to a network).

Opens the System Properties dialog box.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 43

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, and click Printers and Other Hardware.

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.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

FILE LOCATION: C:\data\Temp\Benz\T8109c42.fm

touch pad

• 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 down-up-down on the touch pad. On the second down motion, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected object by sliding your finger across the surface.

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

DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 4/27/05 – FOR PROOF ONLY

44 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

touch pad buttons

FILE LOCATION: C:\data\Temp\Benz\T8109c42.fm

Customizing the Touch Pad

You can disable the touch pad or adjust their settings by using the Mouse Properties window.

Click the

On the

• Click the

Select the desired settings and click

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Start

button, click

Mouse Properties

Device Select

Pointer

tab to adjust touch pad settings.

Control Panel

, and then double-click the

window:

tab to disable the touch pad.

Apply

Mouse

icon.

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Try adjusting the settings.

TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE, CHECK THE TOUCH PAD —

Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27).

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.

EINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 74.

Start

Mouse

button, click

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

External Keyboard Problems

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27). Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for damage.

If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.

HECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —

Turn off 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 the

Notepad

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.

DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 4/27/05 – FOR PROOF ONLY

Start

button, point to

All Programs

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 45

, point to

Accessories

, and

FILE LOCATION: C:\data\Temp\Benz\T8109c42.fm

TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD, CHECK THE INTEGRATED

KEYBOARD —

Turn off the computer.

Disconnect the external keyboard.

Turn on the computer.

From the Windows desktop, click the

Notepad

click

Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

Start

button, point to

All Programs

, point to

Accessories

, and

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 100).

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Unexpected Characters

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

ISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD —

Press <Num Lock> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 4/27/05 – FOR PROOF ONLY

46 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs

For information about using CDs and DVDs in your computer, see the Dell Inspiron help file. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

CD and DVD Problems

If you cannot play a CD or DVD

NOTE: Because of different worldwide file types, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. This noise does not indicate a defect with the drive or the CD.

ENSURE THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the 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. Insert a bootable disk and restart the computer. Verify that the light is blinking, indicating normal operation.

RY ANOTHER DISC — Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original disc is defective.

NSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED TO THE SPINDLE.

DJUST 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.

EINSTALL THE DRIVE —

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.

Remove the drive. See "Using the Module Bay" in the To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

Reinstall the drive.

Turn on the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISC — See "Cleaning Your Computer" in the instructions. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

Dell Inspiron

help file for instructions.

help file for

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 47

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

Ensure that the computer is shut down and turned off (see page 27).

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.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

If the CD-RW drive stops writing

DISABLE STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD-RW — Search for the keyword

standby in the Help and Support Center. To access help, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

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

XIT ALL OTHER OPEN PROGRAMS — Exiting all other open programs before writing to the CD-RW may

alleviate the problem.

Sound and Speaker Problems

If you have a problem with 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.

DJUST THE VOLUME USING THE VOLUME CONTROL BUTTONS — Press the volume control buttons and

mute button, which are located above the keyboard.

EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 74.

If you have a problem with external speakers

NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been

listening to MP3 songs, make sure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.

HECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.

EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another

device, such as a lamp.

NSURE THAT THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.

DJUST 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.

48 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

TEST THE SPEAKERS — Plug the speaker audio cable into the line-out connector on the computer. Ensure that the headphone volume control is turned up. Play a music CD.

UN THE SPEAKER SELF- TEST — Some speaker systems have a self-test button on the subwoofer. See the

speaker documentation for self-test instructions.

LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to

check for interference.

EINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 74.

Copying CDs and DVDs

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

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

The following instructions show how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic RecordNow for other purposes, including creating CDs from audio files on your computer and creating MP3 CDs. For instructions, see the Sonic RecordNow documentation that came with your computer. Open Sonic RecordNow, click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window, and click RecordNow Help or RecordNow Tutorial.

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Click the

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic

RecordNow.

Start

button, point to

All Programs→

Sonic→ RecordNow!→ RecordNow!.

Click either the audio tab or the data tab, depending on the kind of CD you are planning to copy.

Click

Exact Copy

NOTE: If you have a DVD/CD-RW combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for

available software patches at the Sonic support website at support.sonic.com.

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

If you have one CD or DVD drive

, ensure that the settings are correct and click computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies it to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

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

•

If you have two CD or DVD drives

source CD or DVD and click

, select the drive into which you have inserted your

Copy

. The computer copies the data on the 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 CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 49

Copy

. The

Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs

Your CD-RW drive can write to two different types of recording media—CD-Rs and CD-RWs. Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again without changing your method of recording (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.

Helpful Tips

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

• You must use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos.

• You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic RecordNow.

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

• 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 650-MB blank CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1 or 2 MB of the blank CD 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 CD-RWs to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.

• See the Sonic support website at

support.sonic.com

for additional information.

Connecting a Television to the Computer

NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a television are not included with your

computer. Cables may be purchased at most consumer electronics stores.

Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that enables you to connect the computer to a television. Using a commercially available S-video cable or composite video cable, you can connect the computer to a television in one of two ways:

• S-video (for a television with S-video input)

• Composite video (for a television with only a composite video input; also uses the Dell-supplied composite TV-out adapter cable)

NOTE: Diagrams for each connection combination appear at the beginning of each subsection to help

you determine which method you should use.

50 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

The audio connector on the side of the computer enables you to connect the computer to your television or audio device, using a commercially available audio cable.

When you complete the cable connection, see "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" on page 55 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the television.

S-Video Connection

Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:

S-video cable

audio cable

Shut down the computer and the television and/or audio device you want to connect.

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

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 51

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Plug the other end of the S-video cable into your television.

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 television or audio device.

Turn on the television, turn on any audio device you connected, and then turn on the computer.

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a Television" on page 55 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the television.

52 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Composite Video Connection

To connect the computer to a television that has a composite video input only, Dell provides a composite TV-out adapter cable. Before you begin, ensure that you have the following cables:

composite TV-out adapter cable

composite video cable

audio cable

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 53

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

Connect the composite TV-out adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video connector on the composite TV-out adapter cable.

Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite video connector on the television.

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

S-video TV-out connector

S-video connector

composite video connector

composite TV-out adapter cable

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

54 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Enabling the Display Settings for a Television

ATI Video Controller

NOTE: Ensure that you properly connect the television before you enable the display settings.

To open t h e

Control Panel

Double-click the

Click the

Click the upper-left corner of the TV button to enable the television.

To play a DVD on the television, click the small "primary" button (resembles a bull’s-eye) at the lower left under the

NOTE: Various programs access the hardware in different ways. You may or may not need to click the

primary button for operations other than playing DVDs.

Click

Click OK.

DVD video is visible only on the display that is set to primary. While the DVD is playing, the DVD player window on your computer display is blank or (if the DVD player window is set to full-screen mode) the entire computer display screen is blank.

Control Panel

icon.

Display

Displays

icon, click the

tab.

Apply

Yes

to keep the new settings.

window, click the

Settings

picture.

Start

button and then click the

tab, and then click

Advanced

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 55

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

56 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

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

To connect a network cable:

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

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

Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device, such as a network wall jack.

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

network cable

network adapter connector on computer

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 57

Network Setup Wizard

The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office.

Click the click

Network Setup Wizard

On the welcome screen, click

Click

Checklist for creating a network

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

integrated firewall provided with Windows XP.

Complete the checklist and required preparations, and return to the Network Setup Wizard.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Network Problems

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable connector is firmly connected to the optional connector on the computer and the network wall jack.

HECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR — Green indicates that the network

connection is active. If the status light is not green, try replacing the network cable. Amber indicates that the optional network adapter driver is loaded and that the adapter is detecting activity.

ESTART THE COMPUTER — Try to log on to the network again.

ONTACT YOUR NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR — Verify that your network settings are correct and that the

network is functioning.

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

, and then

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

NOTE: These networking instructions do not apply to internal cards with Bluetooth® wireless technology

or cellular products.

Determining Your Network Type

NOTE: Most wireless networks are of the infrastructure type.

Wireless networks fall into two categories—infrastructure networks and ad-hoc networks. An infrastructure network uses routers or access points to connect several computers. An ad-hoc network does not use routers or access points and consists of computers that broadcast to one another. For additional assistance with setting up your wireless connection, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword wireless setup.

58 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

ad-hoc networkinfrastructure network

Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP

Your wireless network card requires specific software and drivers in order to connect to a network. The software is already installed. If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions included in the user's guide for your wireless network card. The user’s guide is available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

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

Click either the pop-up or the network icon to configure your computer for one of the available wireless networks.

The

Wireless Network Connections

window lists the wireless networks available in your area.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 59

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Click to select the network you want to configure, and then click network name in the list. If you select a secure network (identified by a icon), you must enter a WEP or WPA key when prompted.

NOTE: Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information.

Your network is configured automatically.

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

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

Connect

or double-click the

60 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Thereafter, whenever you log on to your computer in the area of the wireless network, the same pop-up notifies you of the wireless network connection.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 61

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

62 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Solving Problems

Finding Solutions

Sometimes it’s difficult to figure out where to go for answers. Use this chart to quickly find the answers to your questions.

NOTE: If you have a problem with an external device, see the device documentation or contact

the manufacturer.

See page 35.

Press the power button to resume from standby mode. See the Dell Inspiron help file for more information on standby mode. See page 65.

Get technical assistance from Dell. See page 65.

See page 65.

Solving Problems 63

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

See page 66.

See page 48.

See page 25.

See page 22.

See page 68.

See page 45.

See page 46.

See page 68

See page 58.

See page 65.

64 Solving Problems

See page 71.

See page 21.

See page 23.

See page 73.

Accessing Help

TO ACCESS THE D ELL INSPIRON HELP FILE —

Click the

Click

TO ACCESS HELP —

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 shown on the screen.

Start

button and click

User and system guides Dell Inspiron Help

Start

button and click

Help and Support

and click

User’s guides

Help and Support

Error Messages

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

THE 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.

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

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to a

nonbootable floppy disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.

NON-SYSTEM DISK OR DISK ERROR — A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy disk and restart the computer.

NOT 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.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell (see "Accessing Help" on page 65).

Solving Problems 65

A 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 the Start button

Click Control Panel

Click

Add or Remove Programs

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

Remove

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

drive and try again.

Video and Display Problems

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.

CHECK THE LIGHT — When the light is blinking, the computer has power.

• If the 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.

• If the light is on, your power management settings may have caused the display to turn off. Try pressing any key or move the cursor to exit standby mode.

Change/Remove

and follow the prompts on the screen.

CHECK 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.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

CHECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that it is on.

66 Solving Problems

CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — Search for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center. For instructions on accessing help files, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

SWITCH THE VIDEO IMAGE — If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image to the display.

If the display is difficult to read

ADJUST THE BRIGHTNESS — See the Dell Inspiron help file for instructions on adjusting the brightness. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

MOVE THE 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.

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances.

ROTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Click the area you want to change or click the

Try different settings for

Start

button and click

Appearance and Themes

Color quality

Control Panel

and

Display

icon.

Screen resolution

SEE "ERROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see "Error Messages" on page 65.

Solving Problems 67

If only part of the display is readable

CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —

Turn off 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. Contact Dell ("Contacting Dell" on page 100).

Scanner Problems

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your modem is functioning properly. If

you are sure that your modem is working properly and you still experience problems, contact your ISP.

CHECK THE POWER CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the scanner power cable is firmly connected to a working electrical power source and that the scanner is turned on.

CHECK THE SCANNER CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the scanner cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the scanner.

UNLOCK THE SCANNER — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER — See the scanner documentation for instructions.

Drive Problems

NOTE: For information on saving files to a floppy disk, see the Dell Inspiron help file. To access the help

file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive

68 Solving Problems

ENSURE THAT THE DISK IS NOT WRITE-PROTECTED — You cannot save data to a write-protected disk. See the following figure.

back of floppy disk

write-protected

not write-protected

TRY ANOTHER FLOPPY DISK — Insert another disk to eliminate the possibility that the original disk is defective.

REINSTALL THE DRIVE —

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.

Remove the drive from the module bay. See "Using the Module Bay" in the

Inspiron

help file for instructions. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on

Dell

page 65.

Reinstall the drive.

Turn on the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE — See "Cleaning Your Computer" in the Dell Inspiron help file for instructions. To access the help file, see "Accessing Help" on page 65.

Solving Problems 69

If you have problems with a hard drive

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.

CHECK THE DRIVE FOR ERRORS —

Click the

Right-click the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and then click

Click the

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Under

Click

Start

Properties

Tools

Error-checking

Start.

PC Card Problems

CHECK THE PC CARD — Ensure that the PC Card is properly inserted into the connector.

ENSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS®— Double-click the Unplug or Eject Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.

button and click

tab.

, click

Check Now

My Computer

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED PC CARD — Contact Dell (see "Accessing Help" on page 65).

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A PC CARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —

Contact the PC Card manufacturer.

70 Solving Problems

General Program Problems

A program crashes

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.

SEE THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you solve the problem. Ensure that you properly installed and configured the program. Reinstall the program if necessary.

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc>.

Click the longer responding.

Click

Error messages appear

REVIEW "ERROR MESSAGES"—Look up the message and take the appropriate action. See the software documentation.

Applications

End Task.

tab, and then select the program that is no

If Your Computer Gets Wet

CAUTION: Perform this procedure only after you are certain that it is safe to do so. If the computer is

connected to an electrical outlet, it is recommended that you turn off AC power at the circuit breaker before attempting to remove the power cables from the electrical outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing wet cables from a live power source.

Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27), disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, and then disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet.

Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from the computer.

Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.

Remove the module bay device and any installed PC Cards, and put them in a safe place to dry.

Remove the battery.

Solving Problems 71

Wipe off the battery and put it in a safe place to dry.

Remove the hard drive (see "Replacing the Hard Drive" on page 86).

Remove the memory module(s) (see "Adding Memory" on page 81).

Open the display and place the computer right-side up across two books or similar props to let air circulate all around it. Let the computer dry for at least 24 hours in a dry area at room temperature.

CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is thoroughly dry before

continuing with the rest of this procedure.

NOTICE: Do not use artificial means, such as a hair dryer or a fan, to speed the drying process.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.

Replace the memory module(s), the memory module cover, and the screw(s).

Replace the hard drive.

Replace the module bay device and any PC Cards you removed.

Replace the battery.

Turn on the computer.

If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 100).

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27).

Disconnect the AC adapter from the computer and from the electrical outlet.

Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from the computer.

Remove and reinstall the battery.

Turn on the computer.

If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 100).

72 Solving Problems

Resolving Other Technical Problems

GO TO THE DELL SUPPORT WEBSITE — Go to support.dell.com for help with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions. See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 98 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.

E-MAIL DELL — Go to support.dell.com and then click E-Mail Dell in the Communicate list. Send an e-mail message to Dell about your problem; you can

expect to receive an e-mail message from Dell within hours. See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 98 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.

CONTACT DELL — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell™ Support website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance (see "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 98). See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 98 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.

Drivers

What Is a Driver?

A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices require a driver program.

A driver acts like a translator between the device and the programs that use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes.

Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation or configuration is needed.

NOTICE: Ensure that you are installing software appropriate for your operating system.

Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft® Windows® operating system. You may need to install drivers if you:

• Upgrade your operating system.

• Reinstall your operating system.

• Connect or install a new device.

Solving Problems 73

Identifying Drivers

If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.

Click the

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

the device icon.

If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver.

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com provides approved drivers for Dell™ computers.

If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.

Click the

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

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

Click the

Click

Roll Back Driver

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 75) to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.

Start

button and click

Start

button and click

Drivers

tab.

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Properties

74 Solving Problems

Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows XP

NOTE: If you are reinstalling an infrared sensor driver, you must first enable the infrared sensor in

the system setup program (see "System Setup Screens" on page 95) before continuing with the driver installation.

After copying the required driver files to your hard drive, click the Start button and right-click My Computer.

Click the

Click

Click the

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

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

Click the

Click

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Start

button and right-click

Properties

Hardware

Infrared devices

Driver

tab and click

Update Driver

My Computer

Device Manager

Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)

Browse

and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.

Finish

and restart your computer.

and click

Modems

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

• Microsoft Windows XP System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files.

• Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications installed after you received the computer.

NOTE: Dell PC Restore is available only on computers purchased in certain regions.

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state.

NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or

recover them.

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not

work if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.

Solving Problems 75

Creating a Restore Point

Click the

Click

System Restore

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 75) to resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.

NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files

and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

restoration is complete.

Click the

System Restore

Ensure that

Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.

Select a Restore Point

The points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.

Select a restore point and click

If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected. If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.

Start

button and click

Help and Support

Start

button, point to

All Programs→

Restore my computer to an earlier time

screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore

Accessories→

System Tools

is selected and click

, and then click

Click

The

Restoration Complete

then the computer restarts.

After the computer restarts, click OK.

To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can undo the restoration.

Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open

programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

Click the

System Restore

Click

76 Solving Problems

screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and

Start

button, point to

Undo my last restoration

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

and click

, and then click

Enabling System Restore

If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:

Click the

Click

Click the

Ensure that

Start

button and click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

System

System Restore

tab.

Turn off System Restore

is unchecked.

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec

NOTE: Dell PC Restore is available only on computers purchased in certain regions.

Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system. PC Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer—including data files—are permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data before using PC Restore.

NOTICE: Using PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications

or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using PC Restore.

To use PC Restore:

Turn on the computer.

During the boot process, a blue bar with

www.dell.com

appears at the top of the screen.

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

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

NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the following step.

On the next screen that appears, click

On the next screen, click

Confirm

Restore

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

When prompted, click

NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot.

Finish

to reboot the computer.

Solving Problems 77

When prompted, click

Yes

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

Click

System Restore

The

After the computer restarts, click OK.

Removing PC Restore

screen appears and the computer restarts.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTICE: PC Restore enables you to restore your computer’s operating system to the condition it was in

when you purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your computer, even to gain additional hard drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard drive, you cannot ever recall it, and you will never be able to use PC Restore to return your computer’s operating system to its original state.

Log on to the computer as a local administrator.

In Windows Explorer, go to

Double-click the filename

NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator, a message appears stating that you that you

must do so. Click Quit and log on as a local administrator.

If the partition for PC Restore does not exist, a message appears stating that the partition was not found. Click

Click OK to remove the partition.

Click

Yes

The partition is deleted and the space. To check the available space, right-click the select

Properties

Click

Finish

Restart the computer.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

c:\dell\utilities\DSR

DSRIRRemv2.exe

Quit

; there is no partition to delete.

when a confirmation message appears.

c:\

partition expands to include the newly available disk

to close the

PC Restore Removal

window.

c:\

drive in Windows Explorer and

Windows XP IRQ conflicts occur if a device either is not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured.

To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows XP:

Click the

Click

78 Solving Problems

Start

button and click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

and click

System

Click the

In the

Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (

if the device has been disabled.

Double-click any conflict to display the

If an IRQ conflict exists, the

Hardware

tab and click

Device Manager

list, check for conflicts with the other devices.

) beside the conflicting device or a red

Device

status area in the

Properties

window.

Properties

window reports the cards or

devices that share the device's IRQ.

Resolve conflicts by reconfiguring the devices or removing the devices from the

Device Manager

To use the Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter:

Click the

Ty p e

Click

In the

computer

Start

button and click

hardware troubleshooter

Hardware Troubleshooter

, and click

Help and Support

in the

list, click

in the

field and click the arrow to start the search.

Search Results

list.

I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my

Solving Problems 79

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

80 Solving Problems

Adding and Replacing Parts

Adding Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See "Specifications" on page 89 for information on the memory supported by your computer. Be sure to add only memory modules that are intended for your computer.

CAUTION: Before working inside your Dell™ computer, read the safety instructions in the Product

Information Guide.

NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27).

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

Remove all installed batteries, and disconnect the AC adapter cable and any external devices from the computer. Wait 5 seconds before proceeding.

Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer, and continue to do so periodically during this procedure.

NOTICE: While you work, periodically touch unpainted metal on the computer to dissipate static

electricity that might harm internal components.

Turn the computer over, remove the screw from the memory module cover, and lift the cover.

Adding and Replacing Parts 81

NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the inner metal

tabs that secure the memory module.

If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module.

NOTICE: Handle memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the components on a module.

Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory

module connector until the module pops up.

Remove the module from the connector.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the

connector labeled "SLOT 1" before you install a module in the other connector.

Ground yourself and install the new memory module:

NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer does not boot. No error message

indicates this failure.

Align the notch in the module with the slot in the center of the connector.

NOTICE: Only hold the module by the shorter, notched ends. Do not push on the longer, outer edge.

Holding the shorter, notched ends of the module, slide the edge of the module firmly into

the connector, and rotate the module down until you feel a click. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.

Replace the cover and screw.

NOTICE: If the memory module cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the

cover to close may damage your computer.

82 Adding and Replacing Parts

Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer.

As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration information.

Adding a Mini PCI Card

CAUTION: FCC rules strictly prohibit users from installing 5-GHz (802.11a, 802.11a/b, 802.11a/b/g)

Wireless LAN Mini PCI cards. Under no circumstances should the user install such a device. Only trained Dell service personnel are authorized to install a 5-GHz Wireless LAN Mini PCI card.

If you are removing and/or installing a 2.4-GHz (802.11b, 802.11b/g) Mini PCI card, follow the instructions noted below. Only products approved for use in your portable computer may be installed. Approved Mini PCI cards may be purchased only from Dell.

NOTE: 2.4-G Hz Wireless LAN PC Cards may be removed and installed by the user.

If you ordered a Mini PCI card at the same time that you ordered your computer, Dell has already installed the card for you.

CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in the Product

Information Guide.

NOTE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts.

Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer cover.

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27).

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

Remove all installed batteries, and disconnect the AC adapter cable and any external devices from the computer. Wait 5 seconds before proceeding.

Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer, and continue to do so periodically during this procedure.

Adding and Replacing Parts 83

Turn the computer over, and remove the screw from the Mini PCI card cover.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Place your finger under the cover at the indentation, and lift and slide the cover open.

84 Adding and Replacing Parts

If a Mini PCI card is not already installed, go to step 9. If you are replacing a Mini PCI card, remove the existing card:

Disconnect the Mini PCI card from any attached cables.

Release the Mini PCI card by spreading the metal securing tabs until the card pops up slightly.

Lift the Mini PCI card out of its connector.

Align the new Mini PCI card with the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the Mini PCI card into the connector.

Connect the antenna cables from the Mini PCI card to the antenna connectors on the computer.

NOTICE: The connectors are keyed for correct insertion; do not force the connections.

antenna connectors on card (2)

antenna cables (2)

Lower the Mini PCI card toward the inner tabs to approximately a 20-degree angle.

Continue lowering the Mini PCI card until it snaps into the inner tabs of the connector.

Replace the cover.

Adding and Replacing Parts 85

Replacing the Hard Drive

CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot, do not touch the metal

housing of the hard drive.

CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in the Product

Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent data loss, shut down your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27)

before removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate mode.

NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile; even a slight bump can damage the drive.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other

than Dell.

Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer cover.

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27).

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

Remove all installed batteries, and disconnect the AC adapter cable and any external devices from the computer. Wait 5 seconds before proceeding.

Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer, and continue to do so periodically during this procedure.

NOTE: You need an operating system to install the Microsoft® Windows® operating system. You also

need to reinstall the drivers and utilities on the new hard drive.

Turn the computer over. Use a small screwdriver to loosen the M2.5 x 5-mm screw.

86 Adding and Replacing Parts

M2.5 x 5-mm screw

Turn the computer over so that it is upright.

NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. See your

Product Information Guide for safety instructions.

Pull the hard drive cover out of the computer.

Remove the new drive from its packaging.

Save the original packaging for use when storing or shipping the hard drive.

NOTICE: You cannot replace your hard drive unless you open your display first.

Ensure that the display is open approximately 2.54 cm (1 in).

NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you force the hard drive into place

using excessive force, you may damage the hard drive connector.

Press the hard drive cover into the bay until it is fully seated in the bay.

Turn the computer over. Use a small screwdriver to tighten the screw.

Install the operating system for your computer.

Install the drivers and utilities for your computer (see "Drivers" on page 73).

Adding and Replacing Parts 87

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

88 Adding and Replacing Parts

Appendix

Specifications

Microprocessor

Microprocessor type Intel

L1 cache 32 KB (internal)

L2 cache:

1.3 GHz to 1.7 GHz

1.8 GHz and above

External bus frequency 400 MHz, source synchronous processor

System Information

Data bus width 64 bits

DRAM bus width 64 bits

Microprocessor address bus width 32 bits

Flash EPROM 1 MB

Graphics bus 64 bits (with 32 MB of video memory);

PCI bus 32 bits

1MB

2MB

system bus

128 bits (with 64 MB of video memory)

PC Card

CardBus controller OZ711EC1 CardBus controller

PC Card connector supports one Type I or Type II card

Cards supported 3.3 V and 5 V

PC Card connector size 68 pins

Data width (maximum) PCMCIA 16 bits;

CardBus 32 bits

Appendix 89

Smart Card

NOTE: Depending on your computer’s configuration, the smart card slot may not be

available.

Read/write capabilities reads and writes to all ISO 7816 1/2/3/4

Cards supported 3 V and 5 V

Program technology supported Java cards

Interface speed 9600–115,200 BPS

EMV level level 1 certified

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

WHQL certification PC/SC

Compatibility compatible within a PKI environment

Insert/eject cycles certified for up to 100,000 cycles

Memory

Minimum requirement 266 MHz

Memory module connector two user-accessible DDR SDRAM

Memory module capacities 128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB, and 1 GB

Memory type 2.5 V DDR SDRAM PC2100 or PC2700,

Standard memory 128 MB

Maximum memory 2 GB

microprocessor cards (T=0, T=1)

SODIMM 200pin connectors

depending on your computer’s configuration

Ports and Connectors

Serial 9-pin connector; 16550C-compatible,

Parallel 25-pin connector; unidirectional,

Video 15-pin connector

Audio microphone miniconnector,

USB two 4-pin USB 2.0–compliant connectors

Infrared sensor sensor compatible with IrDA Standard 1.1

90 Appendix

16-byte buffer connector

bidirectional, or ECP

stereo headphones/speakers miniconnector

(Fast IR) and IrDA Standard 1.0 (Slow IR)

Ports and Connectors (continued)

S-video TV-out 7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-video

to composite video adapter cable)

Mini PCI Type IIIA Mini PCI card slot

Modem RJ-11 port

Network adapter RJ-45 port

Communications

Modem:

Ty p e

Controller

Interface

v.92 56K MDC

softmodem

internal AC’97 bus

Network adapter 10/100/1000 Ethernet LAN on system board

Wireless internal Mini PCI Wi-Fi (802.11b and

802.11a) wireless support; internal card with Bluetooth

wireless technology

Video

Video type 64-bit hardware accelerated

Data bus 4X AGP

Video controller ATI Mobility RADEON 9000

Video memory 32 MB or 64 MB

LCD interface LVDS

TV support NTSC or PAL in S-video and

composite modes

Audio

NOTE: Depending on your computer’s configuration, the microphone connector may

not be available.

Audio type compatible with Soundblaster and

Microsoft

Audio controller Intel AC’97

Stereo conversion 20-bit (stereo digital-to-analog);

18-bit (stereo analog-to-digital)

Windows® Sound System

Appendix 91

Audio (continued)

Interfaces:

Internal

External

Speaker two 4-ohm speakers

Internal speaker amplifier 2-W channel into 4 ohms

Volume controls keyboard shortcuts or program menus

AC’97

microphone miniconnector, stereo headphones/speakers miniconnector

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Display

Type (active-matrix TFT) XGA or SXGA+

Dimensions:

Height

Width

Diagonal

Maximum resolutions 1024 x 768 at 16.8 million colors (XGA);

Response time (typical) 20-ms rise (maximum);

Refresh rate 60 Hz

Operating angle 0° (closed) to 180°

Viewing angles:

Horizontal

Vertical

Pixel pitch 0.28 x 0.28 mm (XGA);

Power Consumption:

Panel with backlight (typical)

Controls brightness can be controlled through

214.3 mm (8.4 inches)

285.7 mm (11.3 inches)

357.1 mm (14.1 inches)

1400 x 1050 at 16.8 million colors (SXGA+)

30-ms fall (maximum)

±40°

+10°/–30°

0.20 x 0.20 mm (SXGA+)

6.5 W (XGA);

7.0 W (SXGA+)

keyboard shortcuts

92 Appendix

Keyboard

Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe);

91 (Japan)

Key travel 2.7 mm ± 0.3 mm (0.11 inch ± 0.016 inch)

Key spacing 19.05 mm ± 0.3 mm (0.75 inch ± 0.012 inch)

Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji

Touch Pad

X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) 240 cpi

Size:

Width

Height

Battery

Type 6 cell, "smart" lithium ion (48 WHr);

Dimensions:

Depth

Height

Width

Weight 0.32 kg (0.7 lb) (6-cell battery);

Voltage 14.8 VDC

Charge time with computer off (approximate)

Operating time approximately 3 to 4 hours (6-cell battery);

64.88-mm (2.55-inch) sensor-active area

48.88-mm (1.92-inch) rectangle

4 cell, "smart" lithium ion (32 WHr)

77.5 mm (3.05 inches)

19.1 mm (0.75 inch)

123.4 mm (4.86 inches)

0.23 kg (.5 lb) (4-cell battery)

1 hour for 80% charge of battery

approximately 2 to 3 hours (4-cell battery)

NOTE: Battery operating time can be

significantly reduced under certain powerintensive conditions. See page 29 for more information on battery life.

Life span (approximate) 300 discharge/charge cycles

Temperature range:

Operating

Storage

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

Appendix 93

AC Adapter

Input voltage 90–264 VAC

Input current (maximum) 1.7 A

Input frequency 47–63 Hz

Output current 5.5 A (maximum at 4-second pulse);

Output power 90 W or 65 W

Rated output voltage 19.5 VDC

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Dimensions:

Height

Width

Depth

Weight (with cables) 0.4 kg (0.9 lb)

Temperature range:

Operating

Storage

Physical

Height 30.8 mm (1.2 inches)

Width 315 mm (12.4 inches)

Depth 259.4 mm (10.2 inches)

Weight:

With travel module

With CD drive

4.5 A (continuous)

27.94 mm (1.1 inches)

58.42 mm (2.3 inches)

133.85 mm (5.25 inches)

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

2.26 kg (4.98 lb)

2.4 kg (5.3 lb)

Environmental

Temperature range:

Operating

Storage

Relative humidity (maximum):

Operating

Storage

94 Appendix

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

10% to 90% (noncondensing)

5% to 95% (noncondensing)

Environmental (continued)

Maximum vibration (using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates user environment):

Operating

Storage

Maximum shock (measured with hard drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms half-sine pulse):

Operating

Storage

Altitude (maximum):

Operating

Storage

0.66 GRMS

1.30 GRMS

122 G

163 G

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

Standard Settings

NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do

not change the settings for this program. 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 Windows

your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 27) and try again.

logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down

System Setup Screens

NOTE: To see information about a specific item on a system setup screen, highlight the item and refer to

the Help area on the screen.

The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer. On each screen, the system setup options are listed at the left of the screen. 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.

Appendix 95

The screens display such information as:

• System configuration

• Boot order

• Boot (start-up) configuration and docking-device configuration settings

• Basic device configuration settings

• Battery charge status

• System security and hard-drive password settings

Commonly Used Options

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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 using the Boot Order page of the system setup program. 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

• CD/DVD/CD-RW 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 up-arrow or down-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 spacebar. Enabled items appear as white and display a small triangle to their 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.

96 Appendix

Performing a One-Time Boot

You can set a one-time-only boot sequence without entering the system setup program. (You can also use this procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.)

Shut down the computer.

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately. If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

When the boot device list appears, highlight the device from which you want to boot and press <>Enter>.

The computer boots to the selected device.

The next time you reboot the computer, the normal boot order is restored.

Changing Printer Modes

Set the Parallel Mode option according to the type of printer or device connected to the parallel connector. To determine the correct mode to use, see the documentation that came with the device.

Setting Par all el M ode to Disabled disables the parallel port and the port’s LPT address, freeing its interrupt for another device to use.

Changing COM Ports

Serial Port allows you to map the serial port COM address or disable the serial port and its address, freeing its interrupt for another device to use.

Enabling the Infrared Sensor

Enter the system setup program:

Turn on your computer.

Press <F2>when the DELL logo appears.

Press <Alt><p> until you locate

Press the down-arrow key to highlight

Press <Esc> to save the changes and exit the system setup program.

If you are prompted to restart your computer, click

Follow the instructions on the screen while the infrared sensor driver is being installed.

At the end of the installation process, click

Infrared Data Port

Disabled

next to

Yes

to restart the computer.

under

Basic Device Configuration

Infrared Data Port

Appendix 97

After you enable the infrared sensor, you can use it to establish a link to an infrared device. To set up and use an infrared device, see the infrared device documentation and the Windows Help and Support Center.

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

Technician-assisted technical support requires the cooperation and participation of the customer in the troubleshooting process and provides for restoration of the operating system, application software, and hardware drivers to the original default configuration as shipped from Dell, as well as the verification of appropriate functionality of the computer and all Dellinstalled hardware. In addition to this technician-assisted technical support, online technical

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

support is available at support.dell.com. Additional technical support options may be available for purchase.

Dell provides limited technical support for the computer and any "Dell-installed" software and peripherals

. Support for third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer, including those purchased and/or installed through Dell Software and Peripherals, Readyware, and Custom Factory Integration

Repair services are provided pursuant to the terms and conditions of your limited warranty and any optional support service contract purchased with the computer.

All Dell-standard components included in a Custom Factory Integration (CFI) project are covered by the standard Dell limited warranty for your computer. However, Dell also extends a parts replacement program to cover all nonstandard, third-party hardware components integrated through CFI for the duration of the computer’s service contract.

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals

Dell-installed software includes the operating system and some of the application software that is preinstalled on the computer during the manufacturing process (Microsoft Office, Norton Antivirus, and so on).

Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dell-branded module bay or PC Card accessories. In addition, any Dell-branded monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers, microphones for telephonic modems, docking stations/port replicators, networking products, and all associated cabling are included.

Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals

Third-party software and peripherals include any peripheral, accessory, or application software sold by Dell not under the Dell brand (printers, scanners, cameras, games, and so on). Support for all third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer of the product.

98 Appendix

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

Most Dell computers are classified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as Class B digital devices. To determine which classification applies to your computer, examine all FCC registration labels located on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, on cardmounting brackets, and on the cards themselves. If any one of the labels carries a Class A rating, your entire computer is considered to be a Class A digital device. If all labels carry an FCC Class B rating as distinguished by either an FCC ID number or the FCC logo, ( ), your computer is considered to be a Class B digital device.

Once you have determined your computer’s FCC classification, read the appropriate FCC notice. Note that FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell could void your authority to operate this equipment.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference.

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Class A

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction manual, may cause harmful interference with radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own expense.

Class B

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction manual, may cause interference with radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

Appendix 99

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.

FCC Identification Information

The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in compliance with FCC regulations:

• Model number: PP05L

• Company name:

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Dell Inc. One Dell Way Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA 512-338-4400

Macrovision Product Notice

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

Contacting Dell

To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:

• www.dell.com

•

support.dell.com

•

premiersupport.dell.com

medium/large business customers, including Premier, Platinum, and Gold customers)

For specific web addresses for your country, find the appropriate country section in the table below.

NOTE: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed.

NOTE: In certain countries, technical support specific to Dell Inspiron™ XPS computers is available at a

separate telephone number listed for participating countries. If you do not see a telephone number listed that is specific for Inspiron XPS computers, you may contact Dell through the technical support number listed and your call will be routed appropriately.

(technical support)

(technical support for educational, government, healthcare, and

When you need to contact Dell, use the electronic addresses, telephone numbers, and codes provided in the following table. If you need assistance in determining which codes to use, contact a local or an international operator.

100 Appendix

Dell PP05L User Manual 2

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Owner’s Manual

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

E-Mail Problems

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a Parallel Printer

Connecting a USB Printer

Printer Problems

Setting Up the Docking Device to Connect to a Network

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

Turning Off Your Computer

Using Batteries and Module Bay Devices

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Charging the Battery

Removing a Battery

Installing a Battery

Removing and Installing a Reserve Battery

Storing a Battery

Power Problems

About the Module Bay

Checking the Charge on the Second Battery

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

Keyboard Shortcuts

System Functions

Battery

CD or DVD Tray

Display Functions

Power Management

Speaker Functions

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

External Keyboard Problems

Unexpected Characters

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs

CD and DVD Problems

If you cannot play a CD or DVD

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

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

If the CD-RW drive stops writing

Sound and Speaker Problems

If you have a problem with integrated speakers

If you have a problem with external speakers

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs

Helpful Tips

Connecting a Television to the Computer

S-Video Connection

Composite Video Connection

Enabling the Display Settings for a Television

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Network Setup Wizard

Network Problems

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

Determining Your Network Type