Dell PP09L User Manual

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Dell™ Inspiron™ XPS

Owner’s Manual

Model PP09L

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.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the

Dell™ Inspiron™ Help

file. To access the

help file, see page 18.

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, TrueMobile, Dell T ravelLite, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex,

Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault, PowerConnect, PowerApp, DellNet, Axim, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG and is used by Dell Inc. under license; EMC is a registered trademark of 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 PP09L

May 2004 P/N M3551 Rev. A02

CAUTION: Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

SAFETY: General SAFETY: Power SAFETY: Battery SAFETY: Air Travel

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SAFETY: EMC Instructions

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When Using Your Computer

SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge SAFETY: Battery Disposal

Finding Information

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1 A Tour of Your Computer

Front View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

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2 Using Your Computer

Transferring Information to a New Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Configuring Graphics Cards

Settings and Functions

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

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video and Standard Audio S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio Composite Video and Standard Audio Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

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Contents 3

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Setting Up the Dolby Headphone Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

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Connecting Monitors

Using CDs and DVDs

Copying CDs and DVDs

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

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3 Optimizing Performance

DDR Memory and Processor Front-Side Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Hyper-Threading

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

4 Using a Battery

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft Charge Gauge

Windows® Power Meter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

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Low-Battery Warning

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5 Using the Module Bay

4 Contents

Charging the Battery

Removing a Battery

Installing a Battery

Storing a Battery

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About the Module Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running

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6 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Key Combinations

System Functions Battery CD or DVD Tray Display Functions Radios (Including Wireless Networking and PC Cards With

Bluetooth Power Management Speaker Functions Microsoft

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick

Changing the Track Stick Cap

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Wireless Technology) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

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Windows® Logo Key Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

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7 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Network Setup Wizard

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

Determining Your Network Type Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft Configuring Security Settings (Optional)

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Windows® XP. . . . . 67

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8 Solving Problems

Using the Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

Error Messages

Video and Display Problems

If the display is blank

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

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Contents 5

Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Hard Drive Problems

If you have problems with a hard drive

PC Card Problems

External Keyboard Problems

Power Problems

Unexpected Characters

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

Printer Problems

E-Mail Problems

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

Network Problems

General Program Problems

A program crashes A program stops responding A solid blue screen appears Error messages appear

CD or DVD Problems

If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, or DVD

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

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6 Contents

Sound and Speaker Problems

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

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Resolving Other Technical Problems

Drivers

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What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

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Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Creating a Restore Point Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State Undoing the Last System Restore

Reinstalling Microsoft

Before You Begin Reinstalling Windows XP

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Windows® XP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

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9 Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Recommended Tools Shutting Down Your Computer

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Memory

Mini PCI Card

Hard Drive

Subwoofer

Keyboard

PC Card With Bluetooth

Modem

Keyboard Bracket

Fans

Hinge Covers

Display

Display Latch

Video Card

Processor Thermal-Cooling Assembly

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

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Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

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Wireless Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

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Removing the Modem Installing the Modem

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Removing the Processor Thermal-Cooling Assembly Installing the Processor Thermal-Cooling Assembly

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Contents 7

Palm Rest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Processor Module

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Removing the Processor Module Installing the Processor Module

Flashing the BIOS

Reserve Battery

System Board

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Removing the System Board Installing the System Board

Speakers

Display Latch Release

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Pin Assignments for I/O Connectors

USB Connector Video Connector

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S-Video TV-Out Connector IEEE 1394 Connector DVI-I Connector

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10 Appendix

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8 Contents

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Using the System Setup Program

Overview

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

Viewing the System Setup Screens System Setup Screens Commonly Used Options

Enabling the Infrared Sensor

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

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

Contacting Dell

Regulatory Notices

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

NOM Information (Mexico Only)

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Limited Warranties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Limited Warranty for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (U.S. Only)

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Limited Warranty Terms for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (Canada Only)

Dell Software and Peripherals (Canada Only)

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1-Year End-User Manufacturer Guarantee (Latin America and the Caribbean Only)

Warranty Statement for Pentium® and Celeron®

Intel Processors Only (U.S. and Canada Only)

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Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183

Contents 9

10 Contents

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage.

SAFETY: General

• Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instructions closely.

• If you use an extension power cable with your AC adapter, ensure that the total ampere rating of the products plugged in to the extension power cable does not exceed the ampere rating of the extension cable.

• Do not push objects into air vents or openings of your computer. Doing so can cause fire or electric shock by shorting out interior components.

• Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a carrying case or a closed briefcase, while the computer is turned on. Restricting airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

• Keep your computer away from radiators and heat sources. Also, do not block cooling vents. Avoid placing loose papers underneath your computer; do not place your computer in a closed-in wall unit or on a bed, sofa, or rug.

• Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a desk top or on the floor, when you use it to run the computer or to charge the battery. Do not cover the AC adapter with papers or other items that will reduce cooling; also, do not use the AC adapter inside a carrying case.

• The AC adapter may become hot during normal operation of your computer. Use care when handling the adapter during or immediately after operation.

• Do not allow your portable computer to operate with the base resting directly on exposed skin for extended periods of time. The surface temperature of the base will rise during normal operation (particularly when AC power is present). Allowing sustained contact with exposed skin can cause discomfort or, eventually, a burn.

• Do not use your computer in a wet environment, for example, near a bath tub, sink, or swimming pool or in a wet basement.

• If your computer includes an integrated or optional (PC Card) modem, disconnect the modem cable if an electrical storm is approaching to avoid the remote risk of electric shock from lightning via the telephone line.

• To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not connect or disconnect any cables or perform maintenance or reconfiguration of this product during an electrical storm. Do not use your computer during an electrical storm unless all cables have been disconnected and the computer is operating on battery power.

• If your computer includes a modem, the cable used with the modem should be manufactured with a minimum wire size of 26 American wire gauge (AWG) and an FCC-compliant RJ-11 modular plug.

• Before you open the memory module cover, fan covers, or Mini PCI card cover on the bottom of your computer, disconnect all cables from their electrical outlets and disconnect the telephone cable.

• If your computer has both a modem RJ-11 connector and a network RJ-45 connector, which look alike, make sure you insert the telephone cable into the RJ-11 connector, not the RJ-45 connector.

• PC Cards may become very warm during normal operation. Use care when removing PC Cards after their continuous operation.

• Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.

Safety Instructions 11

SAFETY: Power

• Use only the Dell-provided AC adapter approved for use with this computer. Use of another AC adapter may cause a fire or explosion.

• Before you connect the computer to an electrical outlet, check the AC adapter voltage rating to ensure that the required voltage and frequency match the available power source.

• To remove the computer from all power sources, turn the computer off, disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet, and remove any battery installed in the battery bay.

• To help prevent electric shock, plug the AC adapter and device power cables into properly grounded power sources. These power cables may be equipped with 3-prong plugs to provide an earth grounding connection. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from the power cable plug. If you use a power extension cable, use the appropriate type, 2-prong or 3-prong, to mate with the AC adapter power cable.

• Be sure that nothing rests on your AC adapter’s power cable and that the cable is not located where it can be

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tripped over or stepped on.

• If you are using a multiple-outlet power strip, use caution when plugging the AC adapter’s power cable into the power strip. Some power strips may allow you to insert the plug incorrectly. Incorrect insertion of the power plug could result in permanent damage to your computer, as well as risk of electric shock and/or fire. Ensure that the ground prong of the power plug is inserted into the mating ground contact of the power strip.

SAFETY: Battery

• Use only Dell™ battery modules that are approved for use with this computer. Use of other types may increase the risk of fire or explosion.

• Do not carry a battery pack in your pocket, purse, or other container where metal objects (such as car keys or paper clips) could short-circuit the battery terminals. The resulting excessive current flow can cause extremely high temperatures and may result in damage to the battery pack or cause fire or burns.

• The battery poses a burn hazard if you handle it improperly. Do not disassemble it. Handle a damaged or leaking battery pack with extreme care. If the battery is damaged, electrolyte may leak from the cells and may cause personal injury.

• Keep the battery away from children.

• Do not store or leave your computer or battery pack near a heat source such as a radiator, fireplace, stove, electric heater, or other heat-generating appliance or otherwise expose it to temperatures in excess of 60ºC (140ºF). When heated to excessive temperatures, battery cells could explode or vent, posing a risk of fire.

• Do not dispose of your computer’s battery in a fire or with normal household waste. Battery cells may explode. Discard a used battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions or contact your local waste disposal agency for disposal instructions. Dispose of a spent or damaged battery promptly.

SAFETY: Air Travel

• Certain Federal Aviation Administration regulations and/or airline-specific restrictions may apply to the operation of your Dell computer while you are on board an aircraft. For example, such regulations/restrictions may prohibit the use of any personal electronic device (PED) that has the capacity for intentional transmission of radio frequency or other electromagnetic signals while on an aircraft.

– In order to best comply with all such restrictions, if your Dell portable computer is equipped with Dell

TrueMobile™ or some other wireless communication device, please disable this device before you board the aircraft and follow all instructions provided by airline personnel with regard to such device.

12 Safety Instructions

– Additionally, the use of any PED, such as a portable computer, may be prohibited in aircraft during certain

critical phases of flight, for example, takeoff and landing. Some airlines may further define the critical flight phase as any time the aircraft is below 3050 m (10,000 ft). Please follow the airline’s specific instructions as to when the use of a PED is allowed.

SAFETY: EMC Instructions

Use shielded signal cables to ensure that you maintain the appropriate electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) classification for the intended environment. For parallel printers, a cable is available from Dell. If you prefer, you can order a cable from Dell at its worldwide website at www.dell.com.

Static electricity can harm electronic components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components, such as a memory module. You can do so by touching a connector on the back panel.

WARNING: Handling the cord on this product, or cords associated with accessories sold with this product, will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash your hands after handling the cord.

When Using Your Computer

Observe the following safe-handling guidelines to prevent damage to your computer:

• When setting up the computer for work, place it on a level surface.

• When traveling, do not check the computer as baggage. You can put your computer through an X-ray security machine, but never put your computer through a metal detector. If you have the computer checked by hand, be sure to have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn on the computer.

• When traveling with the hard drive removed from the computer, wrap the drive in a nonconducting material, such as cloth or paper. If you have the drive checked by hand, be ready to install the drive in the computer. You can put the hard drive through an X-ray security machine, but never put the drive through a metal detector.

• When traveling, do not place the computer in overhead storage compartments where it could slide around. Do not drop your computer or subject it to other mechanical shocks.

• Protect your computer, battery, and hard drive from environmental hazards such as dirt, dust, food, liquids, temperature extremes, and overexposure to sunlight.

• When you move your computer between environments with very different temperature and/or humidity ranges, condensation may form on or within the computer. To avoid damaging the computer, allow sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate before using the computer.

NOTICE: When taking the computer from low-temperature conditions into a warmer environment or from high-

temperature conditions into a cooler environment, allow the computer to acclimate to room temperature before turning on power.

• When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself. As you pull out the connector, keep it evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable make sure both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

• Handle components with care. Hold a component such as a memory module by its edges, not its pins.

• When preparing to remove a memory module from the system board or disconnect a device from the computer, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter cable, remove any battery installed in the battery bay, and then wait 5 seconds before proceeding to help avoid possible damage to the system board.

Safety Instructions 13

• Clean the display with a soft, clean cloth and water. Apply the water to the cloth; then stroke the cloth across the display in one direction, moving from the top of the display to the bottom. Remove moisture from the display quickly and keep the display dry. Long-term exposure to moisture can damage the display. Do not use a commercial window cleaner to clean your display.

• If your computer gets wet or is damaged, follow the procedures described in your Product Information Guide. If, after following these procedures, you confirm that your computer is not operating properly, contact Dell (see page 152 for the appropriate contact information).

SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits

CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.

CAUTION: Viewing the display or external monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in the Dell™ Inspiron™ Help file when setting up and using your computer. To access the help file, see page 18.

This portable computer is not designed for continuous operation as office equipment. For extended use in an office, it is recommended that you connect an external keyboard.

SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer

Before removing or installing a memory module, Mini PCI card, fan, keyboard, display, reserve battery, or PC Card with Bluetooth

wireless technology, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated.

NOTICE: The only time you should ever access the inside of your computer is when you are installing a memory

module, Mini PCI card, fan, keyboard, display, reserve battery, or PC Card with Bluetooth wireless technology.

NOTICE: Wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting a device or removing a memory

module, Mini PCI card, fan, keyboard, display, reserve battery, or PC Card with Bluetooth wireless technology to help prevent possible damage to the system board.

Shut down your computer and turn off any attached devices.

Disconnect your computer and devices from electrical outlets to reduce the potential for personal injury or shock. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.

Remove the main battery from the battery bay.

Ground yourself by touching any connector on the back panel.

While you work, periodically touch a connector on the back panel to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components.

SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch any remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.

You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD):

• When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the component. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, be sure to discharge static electricity from your body.

14 Safety Instructions

connector on the back panel

of the computer.

connector on the back panel

of the computer to

• When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or packaging.

• Handle all sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads.

SAFETY: Battery Disposal

Your computer uses a lithium-ion battery and a coin-cell reserve battery. For instructions about replacing the lithium-ion battery in your computer, see "Removing a Battery" on page 52 and "Installing a Battery" on page 53. The reserve battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it. However, should you need to replace it, see "Reserve Battery" on page 134 for instructions.

Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.

Safety Instructions 15

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

16 Safety Instructions

Finding Information

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to access tutorials and other how-to information

• How to get a copy of my invoice

• How to extend my warranty

• How to access Dell Support on my Microsoft Windows

• Additional documentation, tools, troubleshooting information, and links to online support resources

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• My computer documentation

• My device documentation

desktop (U.S. only)

Dell Solution Center

Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD)

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see page 94 for instructions), run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 75 for instructions), or access your documentation.

On your Windows desktop

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

• How to set up a printer

• Additional information about setting up my computer

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

• How to remove and install parts

• Technical specifications

• How to contact Dell

Owner’s Manual

NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at

support.dell.com.

Finding Information 17

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Setup Diagram

• Tips on using Microsoft® Windows

• How to play CDs and DVDs

• How to use standby mode and hibernate mode

• How to change my display resolution

• How to clean my computer

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

Dell Inspiron Help File

Click the

Click

Start

button and click

User and system guides Dell Inspiron Help

Help and Support

and click

User’s guides

Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License

These labels are located on the bottom of your computer.

• Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you

support.dell.com

use or contact technical support.

• Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when you contact technical support. The Express Service Code may not be available in certain countries.

• Use the number on the Microsoft Windows License Label if you reinstall your operating system.

18 Finding Information

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Latest drivers for my computer

• Answers to technical service and support questions

• Online discussions with other users and technical support

• Documentation for my computer

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

The Dell Support website provides several online tools, including:

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

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

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

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

• Downloads — Drivers, patches, and software updates

• Reference — Computer documentation, product specifications, and white papers

• How to use Windows XP

• Documentation for my computer

• Documentation for devices (such as a modem)

Windows Help and Support Center

Click the

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

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

• How to reinstall my operating system

Operating System CD

The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the Operating System CD. For instructions, see "Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP" on page 98.

After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities CD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer. For instructions, see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 94.

Start

button and click

Help and Support

Your operating system product key label is located on your computer.

Finding Information 19

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

20 Finding Information

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

keyboard status lights

display latch

display

power button

mute button

volume control button

track stick

track stick/touch pad buttons

speakers

DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed.

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

file, see page 18.

device status lights

keyboard

media control buttons

touch pad

display latch release

A Tour of Your Computer 21

POWER BUTTON — Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power

management mode.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data when you turn off your computer, shut down your computer through the

Start menu instead of pressing the power button.

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

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Turns on when you turn on the computer.

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is flashing.

Turns on steadily or flashes when the computer is in a power management mode. It also flashes to indicate battery charge status.

Turns on when a PC Card with Bluetooth

NOTE: The PC Card with Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional feature, so the

light turns on only if you ordered the card with your computer. For more information, see the Windows Help and Support Center online documentation on PC Cards with Bluetooth wireless technology, or any documentation that came with your device. (To access the Help and Support Center, see page 19.)

To turn off only the functionality of the PC Card with Bluetooth wireless technology, rightclick the icon in the notification area and select Disable Bluetooth Radio.

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

22 A Tour of Your Computer

wireless technology is enabled.

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

• Solid green: The battery is charging.

• Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged.

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

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

• Flashing orange: The battery charge is low.

• Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low.

KEYBOARD — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft

information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Key Combinations" on page 59.

MEDIA CONTROL BUTTONS — Control CD and DVD playback.

TOUCH PAD — Touch pad and touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse.

DISPLAY LATCH RELEASE — Press this to release the display latch and open the display.

SPEAKERS — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume control button or speaker-

volume key combinations. For more information, see page 60.

TRACK STICK/TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Track stick and touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a

mouse.

TRACK STICK — Track stick and track stick buttons provide the functionality of a mouse.

VOLUME CONTROL BUTTON — Press to adjust the speaker volume.

MUTE BUTTON — Press this button to turn off the speaker sound.

Windows® logo key. For

A Tour of Your Computer 23

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

24 A Tour of Your Computer

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

Left Side View

module bay device latch

release

audio connectors

IEEE 1394 connector PC Card slot

MODULE BAY —

You can install devices such as a CD, DVD, or other optical drive in the module

hard drive

bay. For more information, see page 55.

DEVICE LATCH RELEASE —

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

PC C

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

a plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see the Dell™ Inspiron™ Help file. To access the help file, see page 18.

IEEE 1394

some digital video cameras.

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

Press to release the device latch.

A Tour of Your Computer 25

AUDIO CONNECTORS

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Right Side View

Attach a microphone to the connector.

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

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.

26 A Tour of Your Computer

security cable slot

Back View

S-video TV-out connector

AC adapter connector

D/Bay (powered USB) connector

S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

video connector

Connects your computer to a TV. Also connects digital audio capable devices using the TV/digital audio adapter cable.

USB connectors (3)

digital-video interface connector

modem connector (RJ-11)

network connector (RJ-45)

A Tour of Your Computer 27

VIDEO CONNECTOR

USB CONNECTORS (3)

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Connects an external VGA-compatible monitor. For more information, see the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see page 18.

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, as shown below.

DIGITAL-VIDEO INTERFACE (DVI) CONNECTOR

28 A Tour of Your Computer

Connects an external DVI-compatible monitor.With an adapter cable, you can also connect an external VGA-compatible monitor to the DVI connector.

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

To use the internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

For additional information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer.

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 online network adapter documentation supplied with your computer.

D/B

AY (POWERED USB) CONNECTOR

Connects powered USB devices such as a Dell™ D/Bay, which is an external module bay that accommodates an optical drive, floppy drive, or second hard drive; also connects standard USB devices.

A Tour of Your Computer 29

AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR —Attaches 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: Do not use an AC adapter rated at less than 150 W with this computer.

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.

30 A Tour of Your Computer

Bottom View

Mini PCI card cover

subwoofer (optional with 12-cell battery only)

hard drive

battery

battery charge gauge

fan 2

memory module cover

battery-bay latch release

fan 3

MINI PCI CARD COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the Mini PCI card. See page 108.

SUBWOOFER — An optional component available with the 12-cell battery only. It produces a broader bass

output than is provided by the speakers. See page 111.

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

an electrical outlet. See page 49.

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE — Provides information on the battery charge. See page 50.

FAN — The computer uses fans to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from

overheating. See page 119.

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE — Releases the battery from the battery bay. See "Removing a Battery" on

page 52.

MEMORY MODULE COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the memory modules. See page 105.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data. See page 111.

A Tour of Your Computer 31

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

32 A Tour of Your Computer

Using Your Computer

Transferring Information to a New Computer

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

•E-mails

• Toolbar settings

• Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or serial connection, or you can store it on a removable medium, such as a writable CD or floppy disk.

To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:

Click the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

When the

On the

Windows XP CD

When the click

To copy data from the source computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

Under

On the

Start

button, point to

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

and click

Now go to your old computer

at this time.

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

screen, click

, click

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

, and then click

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer

screen, click

screen appears, go to your source computer.

Operating System

screen, click

Transfer files and settings

welcome screen, click

Old Computer

and click

I will use the wizard from the

CD.

Perform additional tasks

and click

Do not

Using Your Computer 33

On the

After the information has been copied, the

Click

What do you want to transfer?

Finish

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Completing the Collection Phase

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

screen, select the method you chose for transferring

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

screen appears.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

Click

Finished

Configuring Graphics Cards

Settings and Functions

Dell configured your graphics card for optimal performance with most games and other video programs. However, some game manufacturers may recommend that you either change a setting or enable or disable a certain function for a game to properly run. You may also want to readjust settings to better fit your gaming style.

Some settings, such as Direct3D or OpenGL, enable you to adjust the card for higher performance or for higher image quality. Other settings, such as contrast or color level, are cosmetic adjustments.

Certain high-end graphics cards are available with TV-out support, which enables you to connect a TV to your computer, in addition to a monitor. A TV-out configuration is ideal for watching movies using an optional DVD player or for giving presentations. For information on connecting a TV to your computer, see page 35.

For information and instructions on adjusting your graphics card’s operating mode, settings, and functions:

and restart the new computer.

Finished

screen appears.

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

2 Click User and system guides.

3 Locate and click the guide for your graphics card.

34 Using Your Computer

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

NOTE: Unless otherwise indicated, some of the video and audio cables required for connecting your

computer to a TV may not be included with your computer. Cables may be purchased at most consumer electronics stores.

Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with the TV/digital audio adapter cable (available from Dell), enables you to connect the computer to a TV and/or stereo audio device. The TV/digital audio adapter cable provides connectors for an S-video cable, a composite video cable, and an S/PDIF digital audio cable.

S-video TV-out connector

TV/digital audio adapter cable

S/PDIF digital audio connector

composite video-input connector

S-video input connector

Your TV has either an S-video input connector or a composite video-input connector. Depending on what type of connector is available on your TV, you can use an S-video cable (included with your Dell computer) or a commercially available composite video cable to connect your computer to your TV. For audio devices without support for S/PDIF digital audio, you can use the audio connector on the side of the computer to connect the computer to your audio device.

It is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the following combinations.

NOTE: See the diagrams at the beginning of each subsection to help you determine which method of

connection you should use.

• S-video and standard audio (see page 36 )

• S-video and S/PDIF digital audio (see page 37)

• Composite video and standard audio (see page 39)

• Composite video and S/PDIF digital audio (see page 40)

When you finish connecting the video and audio cables between your computer and your TV, you must enable your computer to work with the TV. See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 43 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. Additionally, if you are using S/PDIF digital audio, see "Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio" on page 42.

Using Your Computer 35

S-Video and Standard Audio

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

TV/digital audio adapter cable

S-video cable

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

NOTE: You can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer

(without the TV/digital audio adapter cable) if your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio.

Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on your

computer.

36 Using Your Computer

standard audio cable

Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video input connector on the TV/digital audio adapter cable.

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

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

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

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

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 43 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Using Your Computer 37

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.

Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video input connector on the TV/digital audio adapter cable.

TV/digital audio adapter cable

S-video cable

S/PDIF digital audio cable

Plug the other end of the S-video cable in to the S-video input connector on the TV.

Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the digital audio connector on the TV/digital audio adapter cable.

Plug the other end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the audio input connector on your TV or other audio device.

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

38 Using Your Computer

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 43 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Composite Video and Standard Audio

TV/digital audio adapter cable

composite video cable

standard audio cable

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

Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.

Using Your Computer 39

Plug one end of the composite video cable in to the composite video-input connector on the TV/digital audio adapter cable.

Plug the other end of the composite video cable in to the composite video-input connector on the TV.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

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

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

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 43 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

40 Using Your Computer

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

Connect the TV/digital audio adapter cable to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.

Plug one end of the composite video cable in to the composite video-input connector on the TV/digital audio adapter cable.

Plug the other end of the composite video cable in to the composite video-input connector on the TV.

Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the S/PDIF audio connector on the TV/digital audio adapter cable.

Plug the other end of the digital audio cable in to the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device.

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

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 43 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Using Your Computer 41

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio

If your computer has a DVD drive, you can enable Dolby Digital 5.1 audio for DVD playback.

Double-click the

CyberLink PowerDVD

icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.

If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.

Click the properties (wrench) icon.

Click the

Click

Enable S/PDIF output

Click

Apply

Click OK.

Enabling S/PDIF in the Windows Audio Driver

NOTE: Enabling S/PDIF in Windows disables the sound from the headphone connector.

Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area.

Click the

Click

Advanced

Click

Enable S/PDIF

Click

Click OK.

Setting Up the Dolby Headphone

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

Double-click the

Click the

Audio

tab.

Options

menu and then click

Cyberlink PowerDVD

Properties

icon

Dolby Headphone

tab.

Advanced Controls

icon on the Windows desktop.

Click

Enable Dolby Headphone

NOTE: Icon labels may be visible only when you place the cursor over the icon.

42 Using Your Computer

Select one of the four options to set the level of surround sound effects. stereo option and

Click

Apply,

Click

Exit

Options 2, 3,

and then click OK to close the

and 4 are surround sound levels.

Properties

window.

Option 1

is a baseline

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

Your computer has an ATI video-controller card. To enable the display settings for a TV:

NOTE: See the documentation that came with your TV, and ensure that you properly configure and

connect the TV before you enable the display settings.

Click the

Click

Under

Click the

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

Click OK.

Start

button and click

Appearances and Themes

or pick a Control Panel icon

Settings

Displays

tab and click

tab.

Advanced

Control Panel

, click

Display

Connecting Monitors

NOTE: If you are connecting two monitors that both have VGA connectors, you must have the

optional VGA adapter, available from Dell. If you are connecting two flat-panel monitors, at least one of them must have a VGA connector. If you are connecting a television, you may connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the television.

This section provides instructions for connecting and enabling monitors. The instructions tell you how to connect either one or two monitors (each with a VGA connector), one monitor with a VGA connector and/or one monitor with a DVI connector, and one monitor of either type and/or a television.

Connect the monitor cables to the connectors on the back of the computer.

If you are connecting one VGA monitor,

connect it to the VGA (blue) connector on the

computer.

If you are connecting one DVI monitor

, connect it

to the DVI (white) connector on the

computer.

Using Your Computer 43

If you are connecting two monitors that both have VGA connectors:

a Connect one of the monitors to the VGA (blue) connector on the computer.

b Connect the other monitor to the optional VGA adapter and connect the VGA

adapter to the DVI (white) connector on the computer.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

TV-out connector

VGA (blue) connector

DVI (white) connector

optional VGA adapter

If you are connecting two monitors, and one monitor has a VGA connector and the other monitor has a DVI connector:

a Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the

computer.

b Connect the DVI connector on the other monitor to the DVI (white) connector on the

computer.

NOTE: To connect a television to your computer, you must use the S-video cable included with your

computer.

If you are connecting two monitors and one of the monitors is a television:

a Connect one end of the S-video cable to the TV-out connector on the computer.

b Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your

television.

Connect the VGA or DVI monitor as described on page 44.

44 Using Your Computer

2 Enable clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings.

• In clone mode, both monitors display the same image.

• In extended desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

For information on changing the display settings for your video card, see the user’s guide in the Help and Support Center (click the Start button, click Help and Support, click User and system guides, click Device guides, and then click the guide for your video card).

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 page 18.

Copying CDs and DVDs

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

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 then click

RecordNow Help

RecordNow Tutorial

How to Copy a CD or DVD

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.

Currently, there are five DVD writeable disc formats available: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW and DVD-RAM. The DVD-writeable drives installed in Dell DVD+R and DVD+RW media, as well as read DVD-R and DVD-RW media, but the drives will not write to and may not read DVD-RAM media. The commerically available DVD players for home theater systems may or may not read all five formats.

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

RecordNow.

Click the

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

Click

Start

button, point to

Exact Copy

All Programs→

Sonic→ RecordNow!→ RecordNow!

™

computers will write to

Using Your Computer 45

To copy the CD or DVD:

If you have one CD or DVD drive

•

, ensure that the settings are correct and click

Copy

. The 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.

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Using Blank CD-Rs, CD-RWs, DVD+Rs, and DVD+RWs

Your CD-RW drive can write to two different types of recording media—CD-Rs and CD-RWs (including High-Speed 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.

Your DVD writeable drive can write to four different types of recording media—CD-Rs, CD-RWs (including High-Speed CD-RWs), DVD+Rs, and DVD+RWs. Blank DVD+Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After creating a DVD+R disc, you may not be able write to that disc again, depending on whether or not the disc is "finalized" or "closed" (the final stage of the disc creation process). Use blank DVD+RWs when you will need to erase, rewrite, or update the information on that disc later.

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.

• 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.

46 Using Your Computer

Optimizing Performance

Your Dell™ Inspiron™ computer is equipped with the Intel® 865PE chip set, which is designed to support the Intel Pentium highest level of system performance. The Intel 865PE chip set is highly integrated; it provides dualchannel PC3200 memory interfaces and an 8X AGP graphics interface.

4 processor with Hyper-Threading (HT) technology to deliver the

DDR Memory and Processor Front-Side Bus

The performance of your computer’s DDR memory depends on the type of memory installed and the clock speed of your processor. For your computer, the memory type is PC3200, so for an 800-MHz front-side bus processor, the memory performs at 400 MHz.

Processor Type Processor Front-Side Bus Memory Type DDR Memory

Performance

Intel Pentium 4 with Hyper-Threading technology

NOTE: To get dual-channel memory bandwidth capability, you must always have two memory modules

installed and they must be of the same memory capacity.

For information on installing memory, see page 105. For more information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see page 144.

800-MHz front-side bus PC3200 400 MHz

Hyper-Threading

Hyper-Threading is an Intel® technology that can enhance overall computer performance by allowing one physical processor to function as two logical processors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously. The Microsoft advantage of Hyper-Threading technology. While many programs can benefit from Hyper-Threading, some programs have not been optimized for Hyper-Threading and may require an update from the software manufacturer. Contact the software manufacturer for updates and information about using Hyper-Threading with your software.

Windows® XP operating system is optimized to take

Optimizing Performance 47

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48 Optimizing Performance

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, read the safety instructions at the front of this document

(see page 11).

NOTE: Batteries for portable computers are covered only during the initial one-year period of the limited

warranty for your computer. For more information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see "Limited Warranties" on page 171 or the separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer

For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. Use a battery to run the computer when it is not connected to an electrical outlet. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.

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

• Using DVD, DVD+RW, 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. (See "Power Management" in the

Dell Inspiron Help

file for more information. To access the help file, see page 18.)

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

or DVD.

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

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

battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The 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. See "Battery Disposal" on page 15.

Using a Battery 49

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

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

Checking the Battery Charge

The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft® Windows® the battery charge gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge.

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

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If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter.

Battery Meter

The in your computer.

The following icons appear in the

• The computer is running on battery power.

• The battery is discharging or idle.

• The computer is connected to an electrical outlet and running on AC power.

• The battery is charging.

• The computer is connected to an electrical outlet and running on AC power.

• The battery is discharging, idle, or charging.

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

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 about the "Power Management" in the

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

Power Meter

window and icon,

window displays status, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery

Battery Meter

Dell Inspiron Help

window:

Power Meter

file. To access the help file, see page 18.

Help

tab, see

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.

50 Using a Battery

battery charge gauge

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. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.

A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. For more information about low-battery alarms, see "Power Management" in the

Dell Inspiron Help

file.

To access the help file, see page 18.

Charging the Battery

NOTE: The AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately 1.5 hours 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’s 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.

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

For more information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 83.

Using a Battery 51

Removing a Battery

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, disconnect all cables from the computer.

Ensure that the computer is turned off or disconnected from an electrical outlet.

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

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52 Using a Battery

Installing a Battery

Slide the battery into the bay at a 45-degree angle.

Press the other side down until the latch release clicks.

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.

Using a Battery 53

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54 Using a Battery

Using the Module Bay

About the Module Bay

CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, read the safety instructions at the front of this document

(see page 11).

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

Your Dell™ Inspiron™computer ships with a CD, DVD, or other optical drive installed in the module bay.

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off

NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, store 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.

The latch release ejects partway.

device latch release

Using the Module Bay 55

Pull the device out of the module bay.

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Push the new device into the bay until it clicks.

Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running

device latch releasemodule bay device

Before ejecting the device, double-click the click the device you want to eject, and click

NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, store 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.

56 Using the Module Bay

Safely Remove Hardware

Stop

icon on the taskbar,

Press the device latch release.

Pull the device out of the module bay.

device latch release

device latch releasemodule bay device

Push the new device into the bay until it clicks.

The operating system automatically recognizes the device.

If necessary, enter your password to unlock your computer.

Using the Module Bay 57

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58 Using the Module Bay

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the middle of the keypad keys.

• To type a number or symbol, hold down <Fn> and press the desired key.

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

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

Key Combinations

System Functions

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

<Num Lk> Enables and disables the numeric keypad

<Fn><Num Lk> Enables and disables the scroll lock function

Battery

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

page 50)

CD or DVD Tray

<Fn><F10> Ejects the tray out of the drive if Dell QuickSet is

installed

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 59

Display Functions

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

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

on an external monitor)

<Fn> and down-arrow key

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

Radios (Including Wireless Networking and PC Cards With Bluetooth Technology)

Wireless

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

Power Management

<Fn><Esc> Activates a power management mode. You can

Speaker Functions

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

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

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

networking and the PC Card with Bluetooth wireless technology.

reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window. For instructions, see "Power Management" in the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see page 18.

external speakers, if attached

speakers, if attached

60 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Windows logo key and <m>

Windows logo key and <Shift><m>

Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer

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

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

Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f>

Windows logo key and <Pause>

Minimizes all open windows

Maximizes all windows

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

Opens the System Properties dialog box

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click

Printers and Other Hardware

, and click

Keyboard

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 61

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.

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• 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-updown 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 over the surface.

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

You can also use the track stick to move the cursor. Press the track stick left, right, up, or down to change the direction of the cursor on the display. Use the track stick and track stick buttons as you would use a mouse.

62 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick

You can use the settings.

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and then

click

In the

• Click the

Select the desired settings and click

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Mouse Properties

Mouse

Mouse Properties

Device Select

Pointer

window to disable the touch pad and track stick or adjust their

window:

tab to disable the touch pad and track stick.

tab to adjust touch pad and track stick settings.

Apply

Changing the Track Stick Cap

You can replace your track stick cap if it wears down from prolonged use. You can purchase additional caps by visiting the Dell website at

www.dell.com

Pull the cap off the track stick.

Align the new cap over the square track-stick post and gently press the cap down onto the post.

NOTICE: The track stick can damage the display if it is not properly seated on the post.

Test the track stick to ensure that the cap is seated properly.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 63

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64 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

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.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 65

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 labeled "This computer connects directly to the Internet"

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enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP.

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

NOTE: These networking instructions do not apply to PC 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 three categories—infrastructure networks, ad-hoc networks, and home 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. A home network typically employs high-speed Internet access such as DSL or cable, and an access point or router. For additional assistance with setting up your wireless connection, go to

support.dell.com

Start

button, point to

and search for the keyword

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

wireless setup

, and then

66 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

ad-hoc network

infrastructure network

home 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

Drivers and Utilities

CD (that came with your computer) in the "User’s Guides-Network User’s

Guides" category. The user’s guide is also available on the Dell Support website at

support.dell.com

Click the

Double-click

Click

The

Start

button, click

Control Panel

Network Connections

Wireless Network Connection

, and then click

icon is highlighted.

user’s guide is located on your

Switch to Classic View

Under

Network Tasks

The

Wireless Network Connection Properties

Click the

NOTE: The names of wireless networks that your computer can detect are listed under Available

Networks.

Wireless Networks

in the left-hand pane, click

window appears.

tab.

Change settings of this connection

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 67

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Click

Add

The

Wireless network properties

window appears.

68 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

NOTE: If you are using a WPA-protected network, and the Association tab does not give you the option

to select WPA, download the WPA wireless security update from the Microsoft support site.

Enter the name of your network in the

If you do not need to configure security settings

If you choose to configure security settings (optional)

Network name (SSID)

, go to step 9.

, go to "Configuring Security Settings

field.

(Optional)" on page 70.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 69

Click OK.

Your new network name appears in the complete.

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Preferred networks

field, and your network setup is

Configuring Security Settings (Optional)

Choose one of the following connection options based on the security settings for your network:

• Connecting to a Network with Wired Equivalent Protocol (WEP) Security Requirements

• Connecting to a Network with Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) Security Requirements

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

Connecting to a Network With Wired Equivalent Protocol (WEP) Security Requirements

In the

Preferred networks

Click

Properties

70 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

field, click the name of your wireless network.

From the

Network Authentication

drop-down menu, select

Open

Earlier versions of Dell wireless network software may not contain the drop-down menu. If you are using an earlier version, click to check the

Data encryption (WEP enabled)

check box

and go to step 5.

From the

If the wireless network does not require a network key, such as a password, go to step 9.

Click to uncheck the

Enter the WEP network key in the

Enter the WEP network key again in the

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

Click OK.

Data encryption

The key is provided for me automatically

drop-down menu, select

Network key

field.

Confirm network key

WEP

check box.

field.

Your network setup is complete.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 71

Connecting to a Network With Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) Security Requirements

The following instructions are basic steps for connecting to a WPA network. If your network requires a user name, password, or domain settings, consult the setup instructions in the user’s guide for your wireless network card.

NOTE: WPA protocols require that you know the network authentication and data encryption settings

for your wireless network. In addition, your WPA-protected network may require special settings such as a network key, user name, password, and domain name.

In the

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Preferred networks

Click

Properties

From the type.

If you are using a WPA-protected network, and the option to select WPA, download the WPA wireless security update from the Microsoft support site.

field, click the name of your wireless network.

Network Authentication

drop-down menu, select your network authentication

Association

tab does not give you the

72 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

From the

If your wireless network requires a key, enter it in the

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

Click OK.

Data encryption

drop-down menu, select your data encryption type.

Network key

Your network setup is complete.

field.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 73

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74 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Solving Problems

Using the Dell Diagnostics

CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, read the safety instructions at the front of this document

(see page 11).

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in this chapter and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

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

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

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see page 152).

Shut down the computer (see page 103).

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.

NOTE: If you cannot see anything on your display, hold down the mute button and press the

computer’s power button to begin the Dell Diagnostics. The computer automatically runs the Pre-boot System Assessment.

NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell

Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities CD.

If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the again.

Start

menu and try

When the boot device list appears, highlight

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

• During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.

• If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart the computer, press <n>; to continue to the next test, press <y>; to retest the component that failed, press <r>.

Diagnostics

and press <Enter>.

Solving Problems 75

• If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s) and contact Dell (see page 152) before continuing on to the Dell Diagnostics.

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

Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue

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

When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run, as described in the following section.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

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After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the option you want to run.

Option Function

Express Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes

Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically

Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you

Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and

Main Menu

10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly.

takes an hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically.

want to run.

allows you to select a test based on the symptom of the problem you are having.

screen appears, click the button for the

If a test detects a problem with a device, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.

If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152).

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell, a

technical support representative will ask for your Service Tag.

76 Solving Problems

If you run a test from the

Custom Test

Symptom Tree

option, click the applicable tab

described in the following table for more information.

Ta b Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and

the problem description.

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for

running the test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected

device.

The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from the system setup program, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names of all the components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.

Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test

settings.

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

Main Menu

screen.

screen. To exit

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.

Solving Problems 77

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

NTLDR IS MISSING — Essential system files are missing or corrupt. Use the following instructions to make new copies of the files from your Operating System CD:

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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.

Insert the At the

Console

Operating System

Welcome to Setup

CD and turn on your computer.

screen, press <r> to choose

Repair using Recovery

When prompted for the particular Windows XP installation you want to log onto, press <1>.

In the next screen you will be prompted to enter the administrator password; enter the password if you have one. If no password is set, press <Enter>.

When

c:\winnt>

The message Ty p e

copy x:\i386\ntdetect.com c:\

(or

c:\>

) appears, type:

1 file(s) copied

copy x:\i386\ntdlr c:\

appears.

(where x: is the drive letter of

your CD drive). The message Remove the

1 file(s) copied

Operating System

CD and press <Ctrl><Alt><Del> to shut

appears.

down and then restart the computer.

78 Solving Problems

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell (see page 152).

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.

1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Add or Remove Programs. 4 Select the program you want to remove. 5 Click Remove or Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen. 6 See the program documentation for installation instructions.

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

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.

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.

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.

ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — Search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see page 19.

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

Solving Problems 79

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 page 18.

MOVE YOUR EXTERNAL SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR

MONITOR — If your external speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that

the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.

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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

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent

1 Click the Start button and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Appearance and Themes. 3 Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon. 4 Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.

SEE "ERROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see "Error Messages" on page 77.

If only part of the display is readable

CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR

1 Turn off your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer. 2 Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness and

If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact Dell (see page 152).

contrast controls.

80 Solving Problems

Scanner Problems

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.

Hard Drive Problems

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

file, see page 18.

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

1 Click the Start button and click My Computer. 2 Right-click the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and

then click Properties.

3 Click the Tools tab. 4 Under Error-checking, click Check Now. 5 Click Start.

Solving Problems 81

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®— Doubleclick the Unplug or Eject Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.

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IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED PC CARD — Contact Dell (see page 152).

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A PC CARD NOT PROVIDED BY D

External Keyboard Problems

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

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer (see page 103). 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.

CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD

1 Turn off the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again. 2 Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink

3 From the Windows

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

If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.

ELL — Contact the PC Card manufacturer.

during the boot routine.

to Accessories, and click Notepad.

the display.

desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point

82 Solving Problems

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

INTEGRATED KEYBOARD

1 Turn off the computer. 2 Disconnect the external keyboard. 3 Turn on the computer. 4 From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point

to Accessories, and click Notepad.

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

the display.

If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see page 152).

Power Problems

NOTE: See the Dell Inspiron Help file for information on standby mode. To access the help file, see

page 18.

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.

CHARGE THE BATTERY — The battery charge may be depleted.

1 Reinstall the battery. 2 Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet. 3 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.

If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. Contact Dell (see page 152).

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

Solving Problems 83

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

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.

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

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ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — See the Dell Inspiron Help file or search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center. To access help, see page 18.

RESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, reseat the memory modules. (For instructions, see "Memory" on page 105.)

Unexpected Characters

DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD — Press <Fn><Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other

2 Click Mouse. 3 Try adjusting the settings.

Hardware.

84 Solving Problems

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE — Shut down the computer (see page 103). Disconnect the mouse cable and check it for damage. Firmly reconnect the cable.

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

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

1 Turn off the computer. 2 Disconnect the mouse. 3 Turn on the computer. 4 At the Windows

an icon, and open it.

If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.

REINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 94.

Printer Problems

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

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

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

desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select

VERIFY THAT WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE PRINTER

1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 4 Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer model is listed,

right-click the printer icon.

5 Click Properties, and then click the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the

following port(s): setting is USB.

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See the documentation supplied with the printer.

Solving Problems 85

E-Mail Problems

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — With the 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.

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.

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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.

CHECK 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.

86 Solving Problems

CONNECT THE MODEM CABLE 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.

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

CHECK 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.

IRREGULAR 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.

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

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware, click Phone and Modem Options, click

the Dialing Rules tab, and then click Edit....

3 In the Edit Location window, ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is

checked, and then select the proper code as listed in your telephone directory.

4 Click Apply and click OK. 5 Close the Phone and Modems Options window. 6 Close the Control Panel window.

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware and click Phone and Modem Options. 3 Click the Modems tab. 4 Click the COM port for your modem. 5 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to

verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.

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

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.

CHECK 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 the adapter is detecting activity.

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

CONTACT YOUR NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR — Verify that your network

settings are correct and that the network is functioning.

Solving Problems 87

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.

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A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM

1 Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc>. 2 Click the Applications tab, and then select the program that is no longer

3 Click End Task.

A solid blue screen appears

responding.

Error messages appear

88 Solving Problems

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper shutdown (see page 103), press the power button until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer. The solid blue screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows shutdown. ScanDisk automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen.

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

CD or DVD Problems

If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, 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, or right-click the Start button and click Explorer. 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.

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

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.

REINSTALL THE DRIVE

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

computer (see page 103).

2 Remove the drive. See "Using the Module Bay" on page 55 for instructions. 3 Reinstall the drive. 4 Turn on the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISC — See "Cleaning Your Computer" in the Dell

Inspiron Help file for instructions. To access the help file, see page 18.

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

1 Ensure that the computer is turned off. 2 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.

3 Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

Solving Problems 89

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.

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 Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see page 19.

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

EXIT 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

90 Solving Problems

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 USING KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS — Press <Fn><End> to disable (mute) or re-enable the integrated speakers.

REINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 94.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.

REINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 94.

Solving Problems 91

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

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

connected to a digital telephone network.

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

In Outlook Express, click

Click

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CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION — C C U

Do not allow attachments

HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK — ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK —

SE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —

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

• Ensure that you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.

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

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

Tools

, click

Options

to remove the checkmark.

, and then click

Security

RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Click the Start button, point to All Programs, and then click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

Printers and Other Hardware

Click

Phone and Modem Options

Click the

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click

Properties

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

92 Solving Problems

Start

button and click

Modems

tab.

, click the

Control Panel

Diagnostics

tab, and then click

Query Modem

to verify that the modem is

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

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

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 152 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 152 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 page 152). See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 152 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 any other 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.

Solving Problems 93

NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your

computer. 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.

Identifying Drivers

If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your

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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 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 as described in the following section.

Start

button and click

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and Utilities CD provide

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

Click

In the

Click

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

94 Solving Problems

Start

button and click

Pick a Category

System

System Properties

Device Manager

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Properties

Click the

Click

Drivers

tab.

Roll Back Driver

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see page 97) to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.

Using the Drivers and Utilities CD

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the

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

Insert the

Drivers and Utilities

CD.

In most cases, the CD starts running automatically. If it does not, start Windows Explorer, click your CD drive directory to display the CD contents, and then double-click the

autorcd.exe

Click

From the

file. The first time that you run the CD, it might prompt you to install setup files.

, and follow the instructions on the screen to continue.

Language

drop-down menu in the toolbar, select your preferred language for the

driver or utility (if available). A welcome screen appears.

Click

The CD automatically scans your hardware to detect drivers and utilities used by your computer.

After the CD completes the hardware scan, you can also detect other drivers and utilities. Under

Search Criteria

System

, and

To pi c

, select the appropriate categories from the

drop-down menus.

System Model, Operating

A link or links appear(s) for the specific drivers and utilities used by your computer.

Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or utility that you want to install.

Click the

Install

button (if present) to begin installing the driver or utility. At the welcome

screen, follow the screen prompts to complete the installation.

If no

Install

button is present, automatic installation is not an option. For installation instructions, either see the appropriate instructions in the following sections, or click follow the extracting instructions, and then read the readme file.

If instructed to navigate to the driver files, click the CD directory on the driver information window to display the files associated with that driver.

Solving Problems 95

Extract

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

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

page 151) in the system setup program before continuing with the driver installation.

After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous section, click

the

Start

Click

Properties

Click the

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

Infrared devices

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

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Click the

Click

Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)

Click

Browse

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Finish

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use Device Manager or the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.

To resolve incompatibilities using Device Manager:

Click the

Click

Performance and Maintenance

Click the

In the

Device Manager

Incorrectly configured devices are indicated by a yellow exclamation point ( device has been disabled.

button and right-click

My Computer

Hardware

tab and click

Device Manager

Driver

tab and click

Update Driver

and click

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

and restart your computer.

Start

button and click

Hardware

tab and click

Control Panel

and click

Device Manager

System

list, check for devices that are incorrectly configured.

) or a red X if the

Modems

Double-click any device marked with an exclamation point to display the

Device

The reconfigured.

Reconfigure the devices or remove the devices from the documentation that came with the device for information on configuring the device.

96 Solving Problems

status area in the

Properties

window.

window reports the cards or devices that need to be

Device Manager

. See the

To resolve incompatibilities using the 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

Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access the Help and Support Center, see page 19.

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

recover them.

Creating a Restore Point

Click the

Click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Start

button and click

System Restore

Help and Support

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 94) 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 restoration is complete.

Click the

System Restore

Ensure that

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

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, point to

Restore my computer to an earlier time

Select a Restore Point

All Programs→

Accessories→

System Tools

is selected and click

, and then click

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

Solving Problems 97

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.

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Click the

System Restore

Click

Undo my last restoration

Click

The

System Restore

After the computer restarts, click OK.

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

Performance and Maintenance

Click

System

Click the

Ensure that

screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and

Start

button, point to

screen appears and the computer restarts.

Start

button and click

System Restore

tab.

Turn off System Restore

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

and click

Control Panel

is unchecked.

, and then click

Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP

Before You Begin

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback (see page 94). If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see page 97) to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver.

98 Solving Problems

NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For

conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.

To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:

•Dell™

•Dell

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer.

Operating System

Drivers and Utilities

Use the Drivers and Utilities CD to load any required drivers.

Reinstalling Windows XP

To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which they are listed.

The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 94), virus protection program, and other software.

NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can

overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.

NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your

computer before you reinstall Windows XP. See the documentation that came with the software for instructions.

Booting From the Operating System CD

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

Insert the

Restart the computer.

Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.

If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again.

Operating System

CD. Click

Exit

if the

Install Windows XP

message appears.

Press the arrow keys to select

When the

Windows XP Setup

When the

Windows now

Read the information on the

Press any key to boot from CD

Windows XP Setup

<F8> to accept the license agreement.

CD-ROM

, and press <Enter>.

message appears, press any key.

screen appears, press <Enter> to select

Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement

To set up

screen, and press

Solving Problems 99

If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to recover your current Windows XP data, type

If you want to install a new copy of Windows XP, press <Esc> to select that option.

Press <Enter> to select the highlighted partition (recommended), and follow the instructions on the screen.

The

Windows XP Setup

install the devices. The computer automatically restarts multiple times.

NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot

from the CD.

NOTE: The time required to complete the setup depends on the size of the hard drive and the speed of

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

your computer.

When the

location and click

Enter your name and organization (optional) in the click

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition

window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the name provided) and click

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional

Password

password, and click

If the

Modem Dialing Information

Enter the date, time, and time zone in the

If the

Networking Settings

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional and you are prompted to provide further information regarding your network configuration, enter your selections. If you are unsure of your settings, accept the default selections.

Windows XP installs the operating system components and configures the computer. The computer automatically restarts.

to select the repair option, and remove the CD.

screen appears, and the operating system begins to copy files and

Regional and Language Options

screen appears, select the settings for your

Personalize Your Software

screen, and

, at the

What's your computer's name

, at the

Computer Name and Administrator

window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the one provided) and a

screen appears, enter the requested information and click

Date and Time Settings

screen appears, click

Typical

and click

window, and click

NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot

from the CD.

When the

When the click

Skip

When the click

When the

100 Solving Problems

Welcome to Microsoft

How will this computer connect to the Internet?

screen appears, click

Ready to register with Microsoft?

screen appears, select

No, not at this time

Who will use this computer?

screen appears, you can enter up to five users.

message appears,

and

Dell PP09L User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

SAFETY: General

SAFETY: Power

SAFETY: Battery

SAFETY: Air Travel

SAFETY: EMC Instructions

When Using Your Computer

SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits

SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer

SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

SAFETY: Battery Disposal

Finding Information

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Using Your Computer

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Configuring Graphics Cards

Settings and Functions

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video and Standard Audio

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Composite Video and Standard Audio

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio

Setting Up the Dolby Headphone

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

Connecting Monitors

Using CDs and DVDs

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CD-Rs, CD-RWs, DVD+Rs, and DVD+RWs

Helpful Tips

Optimizing Performance

DDR Memory and Processor Front-Side Bus

Hyper-Threading

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

Charge Gauge

Low-Battery Warning

Charging the Battery

Removing a Battery

Installing a Battery

Storing a Battery

Using the Module Bay

About the Module Bay

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

Key Combinations

System Functions

Battery

CD or DVD Tray

Display Functions

Power Management

Speaker Functions

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick

Changing the Track Stick Cap

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Network Setup Wizard

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

Determining Your Network Type

Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP

Configuring Security Settings (Optional)

Solving Problems