Dell PP12L User Manual

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Page 1

Dell™ Inspiron™ 6000

Owner’s Manual

Model PP12L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Page 2

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

"Finding Information" on page 9.

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft

Windows®

operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, DellNet, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, PowerVault, PowerApp, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Celeron, and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, MS-DOS, Outlook, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license.

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 PP12L

April 2005 P/N D5181 Rev. A04

Page 3

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1 A Tour of Your Computer

Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

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

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

2 Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

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

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

Connecting a USB Printer

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors Line Conditioners

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

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

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

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

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

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

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

3 Using a Battery

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter Microsoft Windows Power Meter Charge Gauge

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Low-Battery Warning

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Contents 3

Page 4

Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Removing a Battery

Installing a Battery

Storing a Battery

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

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

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

4 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Copying CDs and DVDs

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

Using Dell MediaDirect

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

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

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

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

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

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

5 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

4 Contents

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Key Combinations

System Functions Battery CD or DVD Tray Display Functions Radios (Including Wireless Networking and an Internal Card With

Bluetooth Power Management Speaker Functions Microsoft

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Wireless Technology) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

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

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

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

Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

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

Page 5

6Using PC Cards

PC Card Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

PC Card Blanks

Extended PC Cards

Installing a PC Card

Removing a PC Card or Blank

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

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

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

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

7 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Network Setup Wizard

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

Determining Your Network Type Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft

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

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

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

Windows® XP . . . . . 48

8 Solving Problems

Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

Drive Problems

DVD drive problems Hard drive problems

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

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

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

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

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

External keyboard problems Unexpected characters

Lockups and Software Problems

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

The computer does not start up The computer stops responding A program stops responding

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

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

Contents 5

Page 6

A program crashes repeatedly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system A solid blue screen appears Other software problems

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

. . . . . 60

Memory Problems

Network Problems

PC Card Problems

Power Problems

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

No sound from integrated speakers No sound from external speakers No sound from headphones

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

Video and Display Problems

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

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

Drivers

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

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

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

9 Adding and Replacing Parts

6 Contents

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

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

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

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

Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Page 7

Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

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

Memory

Modem

Wireless Mini PCI Card

Coin-Cell Battery

Display

Optical Drive

Hinge Cover

Keyboard

Internal Card With Bluetooth

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

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

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

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

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

Wireless Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

10 Appendix

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Using the System Setup Program

Overview

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

Viewing the System Setup Screen System Setup Screen Commonly Used Options

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

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

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

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

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

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

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Class A

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Class B

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

FCC Identification Information

Macrovision Product Notice

Contacting Dell

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

. . . . . . . . . 101

. . . . . . . . . . . 101

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Contents 7

Page 8

8 Contents

Page 9

Finding Information

NOTE: Some features may not be available for your computer or in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Dell™ Product Information Guide

• How to set up my computer

• 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

Setup Diagram

Help File

Click the

Click

User and system guides

Click

Dell Inspiron Help

Start

button and click

Help and Support

and click

User’s guides

Finding Information 9

Page 10

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License

These labels are located on

• Use the Service Tag to

• Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when

the bottom of

identify your computer when you

support.dell.com

use or contact technical support.

contacting technical support.

your computer.

10 Finding Information

Page 11

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

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

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support

site.

NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers

can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website at premier.support.dell.com. The website may not be available in all regions.

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

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

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

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates

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

3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel

Pentium®M processors, optical drives, and USB devices. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration.

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

Enter your Service Tag or product model.

In the

Download Category

Select the operating system and operating system language for your computer, and click

Under

Select a Device Configuration Utilities System Software

and click

Downloads

drop-down menu, click

Submit

, scroll to

, and click

System and

Dell Notebook

All

Finding Information 11

Page 12

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to use Windows XP

• Documentation for my computer

• Documentation for devices (such as a modem)

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Windows Help and Support Center

Click the

Start

button and click

Help and Support

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.

12 Finding Information

Page 13

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

display latches (2)

keyboard status lights

keyboard

touch pad buttons

display latch release

display

power button

device status lights

touch pad

media control buttons

speakers

DISPLAY LATCHES — Keeps the display closed.

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

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

file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

A Tour of Your Computer 13

Page 14

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

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

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

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.

14 A Tour of Your Computer

Page 15

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse.

MEDIA CONTROL BUTTONS — Control CD, DVD, and Media Player playback.

Mutes the sound.

Turns the volume down.

Turns the volume up.

Play or pause. This button also launches Dell Media Experience or Microsoft

Windows® Media Center

Edition. See "Using Dell MediaDirect" on page 33.

Plays the previous track.

Plays the next track.

Stop.

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

volume keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see page 41.

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

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

information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Key Combinations" on page 40.

A Tour of Your Computer 15

Page 16

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

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.

Turns on when wireless networking is enabled. To enable or disable wireless networking, press <Fn><F2>.

Turns on when a card with Bluetooth® wireless technology is enabled.

NOTE: The 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 documentation that came with your card.

To turn off only the Bluetooth wireless technology functionality, right-click the icon in the notification area and click Disable Bluetooth Radio.

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

16 A Tour of Your Computer

Page 17

Left Side View

air vent

security cable slot

AIR VENT — The computer uses fans to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer

from overheating.

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

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

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.

optical drive

optical-drive-tray eject button

A Tour of Your Computer 17

Page 18

OPTICAL-DRIVE-TRAY EJECT BUTTON —

Press this button to eject a CD and DVD from the optical

drive.

OPTICAL DRIVE —

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

drive bay. For more information, see "Using CDs and DVDs" on page 31.

Right Side View

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AUDIO CONNECTORS

hard drive

PC Card slot

audio connectors

USB connectors (2)

IEEE 1394 connector

Secure Digital I/O slot

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

IEEE 1394

some digital video cameras.

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

18 A Tour of Your Computer

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

Page 19

SECURE DIGITAL I/O SLOT — The Secure Digital I/O slot supports one Secure Digital memory card or other SDI/O device. Use Secure Digital memory cards to save or back up 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 "Finding Information" on page 9.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

Back View

network connector (RJ-45)

modem connector (RJ-11) AC adapter connector

S-video TV-out connector

USB connectors (2)

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 wired network communications.

For information on using the network adapter, see the online network adapter documentation supplied with your computer.

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

video connector

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.

A Tour of Your Computer 19

Page 20

USB CONNECTORS

S-

VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

CONNECTOR

VIDEO

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

Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer.

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

Connects an external VGA-compatible monitor. For more information, see the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

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.

20 A Tour of Your Computer

Page 21

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

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

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

cable itself, and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable.

Bottom View

optical drive locking screw

battery charge gauge battery-bay latch release

optical drive

battery

bay

hard drive

fan

memory/modem cover

OPTICAL DRIVE LOCKING SCREW — Secures the optical drive in the optical drive bay. For more

information, see "Optical Drive" on page 88.

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

page 30.

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

an electrical outlet. For more information, see "Using a Battery" on page 27.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data. For more information, see "Hard Drive" on page 77 and "Hard

drive problems" on page 55.

MEMORY/MODEM COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the memory and modem. For more

information, see page 79.

A Tour of Your Computer 21

Page 22

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

overheating.

OPTICAL DRIVE BAY —

optical drive bay. For more information, see "Optical Drive" on page 88.

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

"Using a Battery" on page 27.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

22 A Tour of Your Computer

Page 23

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

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

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

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an AOL or MSN connection:

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

Double-click the

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an Internet connection with a different ISP:

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

Click the

The

Start

New Connection Wizard

MSN Explorer

button and click

appears.

AOL

icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

AOL

icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an

Internet Explorer

Click

Connect to the Internet

Setting Up Your Computer 23

Page 24

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

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

service providers (ISPs)

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

• If you have a CD, click

Click

If you selected instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the

Choose from a list of Internet

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

Click the appropriate option under click

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

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 55. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

Setting Up a Printer

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

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

• Obtain and install updated drivers.

• Connect the printer to the computer.

• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.

• Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance.

Printer Cable

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

How do you want to connect to the Internet?

, and then

Connecting a USB Printer

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

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

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

24 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 25

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

USB connector on computer

USB connector

USB printer cable

on printer

Power Protection Devices

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

• Surge protectors

• Line conditioners

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Surge Protectors

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Computer 25

Page 26

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

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

the network wall jack during electrical storms.

Line Conditioners

NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.

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

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

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

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

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

26 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 27

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

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

Product Information Guide.

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.

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

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

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+RW/DVD+R 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. For more information, see the

Inspiron Help

file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

Dell

NOTE:

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

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

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

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" in the Product Information Guide.

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

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

Using a Battery 27

Page 28

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

If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. For more information about Dell QuickSet, see the "Finding Information" on page 9.

The

Battery Meter

in your computer.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

The following icons appear in the

The computer or docking device is running on battery power.

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

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

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

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 Information" on page 9.

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

Power Meter

Dell Inspiron Help

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

Battery Meter

Dell Inspiron Help

window:

file. To access the help file, see "Finding

file. To access the help file, see

window and icon,

Help

Power Meter

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.

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.

28 Using a Battery

Page 29

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 To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

Dell Inspiron Help

file.

Charging the Battery

NOTE: The AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately 2 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 63.

Using a Battery 29

Page 30

Removing a Battery

CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, disconnect the modem from the telephone wall jack.

Ensure that the computer is turned off.

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

battery charge gauge battery-bay latch release

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

battery

Installing a Battery

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

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

Slide the battery into the bay 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.

30 Using a Battery

Page 31

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs

For information about using CDs and DVDs in your computer, see the Dell™ Inspiron™ Help file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

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 DVD-ROM, DVD+RW, DVD+R, 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

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, five DVD-writable disc formats are available: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM. The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to DVD+R and DVD+RW media, and they can read DVD-R and DVD-RW media. However, DVD-writable drives do not write to and might not read DVD-RAM media. In addition, commercially available DVD players for home theater systems might not read all five formats.

RecordNow Help

RecordNow Tutorial

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

RecordNow.

Click the

RecordNow!

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

Click

Start

button, point to

Exact Copy

All Programs→

Sonic→ RecordNow!

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 31

, and then click

Page 32

To copy a CD or DVD:

•

If you have one CD or DVD drive

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

, ensure that the settings are correct and click

Copy

. The

If you have two CD or DVD drives

• source CD or DVD and click the blank CD or DVD.

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs

Your CD-RW drive can write to two different types of recording media—CD-Rs and CD-RWs (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-writable 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 you create a DVD+R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update 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.

, select the drive into which you have inserted your

Copy

. The computer copies the data on the CD or DVD to

32 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Page 33

• 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.

Using Dell MediaDirect

NOTE: QuickSet, which is automatically installed and enabled on your computer, is necessary for Dell

MediaDirect to function. Changing or disabling QuickSet’s default settings can limit Dell MediaDirect’s functionality. For more information about Dell QuickSet, see the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

If you have Microsoft Windows Media Center Edition or Dell Media Experience installed, you can use Dell MediaDirect to launch your media application by pressing the play/pause/Dell MediaDirect button .

• If you hold the media control play button for longer than two seconds while you are logged in, Dell MediaDirect launches Microsoft Windows Media Center Edition or Dell Media Experience, depending on your system setup. If both applications are present, Windows Media Center Edition will launch.

• When your computer is open, you can press the media control play button to start the computer from any state and automatically launch the media application.

NOTE: For optimal efficiency, launch from hibernate or standby mode.

play/pause/Dell MediaDirect button

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 33

Page 34

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

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

included with your computer. Cables may be purchased at most consumer electronics stores. The composite TV-out adapter cable is available for purchase from Dell.

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 a commercially available S-video cable or composite video cable to connect your computer to your TV. For a TV with only a composite video-input connector, you must also use a composite TV-out adapter cable, which is available from Dell.

The audio connector on the side of the computer enables you to connect the computer to your TV

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

or audio device, using a commercially available audio cable.

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

connection you should use.

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 37 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

S-Video Connection

S-video cable

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

Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer.

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

34 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

audio cable

Page 35

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, 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 37 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Composite Video Connection

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 35

Page 36

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

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

S-video TV-out connector

composite TV-out adapter cable

composite video cable

audio cable

composite TV-out adapter cable

S-video connector

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

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

36 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

composite video-input connector

Page 37

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

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 37 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

Your computer may have either a video-controller card or a video controller on the system board (known as an video controller installed in your computer.

Video-Controller Card

NOTE: Ensure that you properly 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.

integrated

Start

Appearances and Themes

video controller). See the following subsection that corresponds to the

button and click

or pick a Control Panel icon

Settings

Displays

tab and click

tab.

Advanced

Control Panel

, click

Display

Integrated Video Controller

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

Click the

Click

Under

Click the

Start

button and click

Appearances and Themes

or pick a Control Panel icon

Settings

tab and click

Advanced

Control Panel

, click

Display

Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 37

Page 38

Click the

Click

Graphic Properties

If you want to use only a TV without using the computer display or any other display options:

In the new window, click TV so that a red check mark appears directly on top of the TV icon.

Ensure that the settings are correct.

If you want to use a TV and the computer display at the same time:

In the new window, click devices listed is a TV.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Click

In the new window, ensure that the display resolution settings are correct.

Click

Apply

Click OK to confirm the settings change.

Click

Yes

Click OK.

Intel (R) Extreme Graphics

Intel (R) Dual Display Clone

Device Settings

to view the new settings.

to keep the new settings.

tab.

and ensure that one of the

38 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Page 39

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

numeric keypad

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

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

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

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 39

Page 40

Key Combinations

System Functions

<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Task Manage r window

Battery

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

CD or DVD Tray

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

Display Functions

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

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

<Fn> and down-arrow key

information about Dell QuickSet, see the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

installed). For more information about Dell QuickSet, see the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

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

on an external monitor).

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

Radios (Including Wireless Networking and an Internal Card With Bluetooth

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

40 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Wireless Technology)

networking and Bluetooth wireless technology

Page 41

Power Management

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

reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window. See "Power Management" in the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

Speaker Functions

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

external speakers, if attached

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

external speakers, if attached

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

speakers, if attached

Microsoft

Windows logo key and <m>

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>

Windows® Logo Key Functions

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

the

Dell Inspiron Help

, and click

Keyboard

. For information about the Control Panel, see

file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 41

Page 42

Touch Pad

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

• 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.

Customizing the Touch Pad

You can use the

Open the Control Panel, click information about the Control Panel, see the see "Finding Information" on page 9.

In the Mouse Properties window, click the

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

42 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Mouse Properties

window to disable the touch pad or adjust their settings.

Printers and Other Hardware

Dell Inspiron Help

Touch Pad

, and then click

file. To access the help file,

tab to adjust touch pad settings.

Mouse

. For

Page 43

Using PC Cards

PC Card Types

See "Specifications" on page 93 for information on supported PC Cards.

NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device.

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

PC Card Blanks

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

To remove the blank, see "Removing a PC Card or Blank" on page 44.

Extended PC Cards

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

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

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

Installing a PC Card

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

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

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

Product Information Guide.

Using PC Cards 43

Page 44

To install a PC Card:

Hold the card with the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need to be in the "in" position before you insert the card.

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

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

Removing a PC Card or Blank

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

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

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

Product Information Guide.

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

44 Using PC Cards

Page 45

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

Using PC Cards 45

Page 46

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

46 Using PC Cards

Page 47

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 connector.

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

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

On the welcome screen, click

Start

button, point to

Network Setup Wizard

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 47

, and then

Page 48

Click

Checklist for creating a network

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

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

Complete the checklist 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 internal cards with Bluetooth® wireless technology

or cellular products.

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Determining Your Network Type

NOTE: Most wireless networks are of the infrastructure type.

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

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 Support website at

wireless setup

support.dell.com

ad-hoc networkinfrastructure network

user’s guide is available on the Dell

48 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Page 49

When you turn on your computer, a pop-up appears from the network icon in the notification area whenever a network is detected in the area for which your computer is not configured.

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

The

Wireless Network Connections

window lists the wireless networks available in your area.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network 49

Page 50

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

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

Your network is configured automatically.

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

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

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

Connect

or double-click the

50 Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Page 51

Solving Problems

Dell Diagnostics

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

Product Information Guide.

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, 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.

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

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, see "FCC Notices (U.S. Only)" on page 102.

Shut down the computer.

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

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

If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Computer" on page 75) and try again.

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.

Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer (see "Turning Off Your

Diagnostics

and press <Enter>.

• 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>.

• If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error

code(s) and contact Dell before continuing on to the Dell Diagnostics. See "FCC Notices (U.S. Only)" on page 102.

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

Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue

Solving Problems 51

Booting

Page 52

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

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the option you want.

Option Function

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

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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

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

If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell. See "FCC Notices (U.S. Only)" on page 102.

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

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

technical support will ask for your Service Tag.

If you run a test from the described in the following table for more information.

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for

52 Solving Problems

Custom Test

encountered.

the problem description.

running the test.

Symptom Tree

option, click the applicable tab

Page 53

Tab Function

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected

device.

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

Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test

settings.

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

Main Menu

screen.

screen. To exit

Drive Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click

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

TEST THE DRIVE —

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

• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK —

Information" on page 9.

ENSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED ONTO THE SPINDLE

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

See

the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see "Finding

Solving Problems 53

Page 54

CHECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES — See "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 71.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "When to Use the Dell Diagnostics" on page 51.

DVD drive problems

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

defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.

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

DVD drives.

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Problems writing to a DVD+RW drive

CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — The DVD+RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the DVD+RW.

TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A DVD+RW DISC — See the Dell Inspiron Help file or search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center for

information on power management modes. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

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

VERIFY THAT THE CORRECT MEDIA IS IN USE — DVD+RW drives may use any CD media such as

CD-R or CD-RW, but when you use your DVD+RW drive to write to DVD media, be sure to use DVD+R or DVD+RW media only. Using DVD-R/RW media may lead to DVD playback problems or incomplete write or verify operations.

If you cannot eject the DVD or DVD+RW drive tray

Ensure that the computer is shut down.

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

Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

54 Solving Problems

Page 55

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.

Hard drive problems

ALLOW THE COMPUTER TO COOL BEFORE TURNING IT ON — A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.

RUN CHECK DISK —

Click the

Right-click

Click

Click the

Under

Click

Start

button and click

Local Disk C:

Properties

Error-checking Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors Start

Tools

tab.

, click

My Computer

Check Now

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 e-mail attachments:

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

Tools

, click

Options

to remove the checkmark.

, and then click

Security

Solving Problems 55

Page 56

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION —

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 the connector clicks 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.

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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 may not be available on certain computers.)

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

Click the

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click

Start Printers and Other Hardware Phone and Modem Options

Modems

Properties

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

button and click

tab.

, click the

Diagnostics

Control Panel

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.

Error Messages

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

Product Information Guide.

56 Solving Problems

Page 57

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

BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces in the proper place, and used the correct pathname.

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer. See "Drive Problems" on page 53.

DATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot read the data. See "Drive Problems" on page 53.

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 CD. Insert a CD.

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN — You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Reinstall the hard drive. See page 77. If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "FCC Notices (U.S. Only)" on page 102.

A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. Remove and then reinstall the program.

Click the Start button and click

Click

Add or Remove Programs

Select the program you want to remove.

Click

Remove

Change/Remove

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.

Control Panel

and follow the prompts on the screen.

Solving Problems 57

Page 58

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

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

ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

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

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED IEEE 1394 DEVICE —

F YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —

Contact Dell or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer. See "FCC Notices (U.S. Only)" on page 102.

Start Printers and Other Hardware

Keyboard Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when working in MS-DOS

Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

button and click

Control Panel

mode or when running the Dell

External keyboard problems

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

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check

it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

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

58 Solving Problems

Page 59

CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —

Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.

Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.

From the Windows desktop, click the

Notepad

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

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories

, and click

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

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

KEYBOARD —

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the external keyboard.

Turn on the computer.

From the Windows desktop, click the

Notepad

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

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories

, and click

If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell. See "FCC Notices (U.S. Only)" on page 102.

Unexpected characters

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

Lockups and Software Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

The computer does not start up

ENSURE THAT THE AC ADAPTER IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE ELECTRICAL

OUTLET

Solving Problems 59

Page 60

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or

moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

A program stops responding

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END THE PROGRAM —

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

Click

Applications

Click the program that is no longer responding.

Click

End Task

A program crashes repeatedly

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

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD — The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.

Click the

Wizard

In the welcome screen, click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories

, and then click

Program Compatibility

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

60 Solving Problems

Page 61

Memory Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —

• Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem.

• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory. See page 79.

• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

memory. See page 79.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics. See page 51.

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory. See page 79.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines. See "Memory" on page 79.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 51.

Network Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into

both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR — No light indicates that no network communication exists. Replace the network cable.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN

CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up

your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.

62 Solving Problems

Page 63

PC Card Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

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

ENSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS — Double-click the Safely Remove

Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED PC CARD — Contact Dell. See "FCC Notices (U.S. Only)" on page 102.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A PC CARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL — Contact the PC Card manufacturer.

Power Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

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

"Finding Information" on page 9.

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.

Reinstall the battery.

Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer.

Solving Problems 63

Page 64

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. Shut down the computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperature.

If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. Contact Dell. See "FCC Notices (U.S. Only)" on page 102.

CHECK THE BATTERY TEMPERATURE — If the battery temperature is below 0° C (32° F), the computer will not start up.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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 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.

ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — See the Dell Inspiron Help file or search for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

RESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES — If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, reinstall the memory modules. See page 79.

Printer Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s manufacturer.

CHECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION — See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.

64 Solving Problems

Page 65

ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• See the printer documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer.

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

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click the

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

Click

port(s):

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See the printer documentation for instructions

Start

button, click

View installed printers or fax printers

Properties

setting is

and click the

USB

Control Panel

Ports

tab. For a USB printer, ensure that the

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Print to the following

Scanner Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer.

CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.

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

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.

Solving Problems 65

Page 66

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS —

Click the

Click If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

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

Start

button, click

Scanners and Cameras

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Sound and Speaker Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

No sound from integrated speakers

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.

ADJUST THE VOLUME USING KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS — Press <Fn><End> to disable (mute) or reenable the integrated speakers.

REINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 70.

No sound from external speakers

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

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

ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.

66 Solving Problems

Page 67

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

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

REINSTALL THE AUDIO DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 70.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "When to Use the Dell Diagnostics" on page 51.

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector. For more information, see "Audio Connectors" on page 18.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Try adjusting the settings.

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

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

Start

Mouse

button, click

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Solving Problems 67

Page 68

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

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the mouse.

Turn on the computer.

At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it.

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

REINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 70.

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Video and Display Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

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 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 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.

ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — Search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

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

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If the display is difficult to read

ADJUST THE BRIGHTNESS — Press <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key.

MOVE THE EXTERNAL SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR — If your external

speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.

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

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

ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Click the area you want to change or click the

Try different settings for

SEE "ERROR MESSAGES"—If an error message appears, see page 56.

Start

button and then click

Appearance and Themes

Color quality

Control Panel

Display

and

Screen resolution

icon.

If only part of the display is readable

CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —

Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.

Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls.

If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact Dell. See "FCC Notices (U.S. Only)" on page 102.

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.

Solving Problems 69

Page 70

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

Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft 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. See the following subsection, "Reinstalling Drivers."

Start

button and click

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

Windows® operating

tab.

Reinstalling Drivers

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

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

Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

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

Click the

Under

Click

In the

Click

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

Click the

Click

70 Solving Problems

Start

button and click

Pick a Category

System

System Properties

Device Manager

Drivers

tab.

Roll Back Driver

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Properties

Page 71

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver. See "Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 71.

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

After copying the required driver files to your hard drive, click the

My Computer

Click

Properties

Click the

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

Infrared devices

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

Click the

Click

Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)

Click

Browse

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Finish

Hardware

Driver

tab and click

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

and restart your computer.

Device Manager

Update Driver

and click

Start

button and right-click

Modems

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

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

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

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

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

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

recover them.

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

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

Solving Problems 71

Page 72

Creating a Restore Point

Click the

Click

System Restore

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 70) 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

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restoration is complete.

Click the

System Restore

Ensure that

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

Select a Restore Point

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

Select a restore point and click

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

Start

button and click

Help and Support

Start

button, point to

All Programs→

Restore my computer to an earlier time

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

Accessories→

System Tools

is selected and click

, and then click

Click

The

Restoration Complete

then the computer restarts.

After the computer restarts, click OK.

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

Undoing the Last System Restore

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

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

Click the

System Restore

Click

72 Solving Problems

screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and

Start

button, point to

Undo my last restoration

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

and click

, and then click

Page 73

Enabling System Restore

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

Click the

Click

Click the

Ensure that

Start

button and click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

System

System Restore

tab.

Turn off System Restore

is unchecked.

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec

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

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

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

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

To use PC Restore:

Turn on the computer.

During the boot process, a blue bar with

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appears at the top of the screen.

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

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

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

On the next screen that appears, click

On the next screen, click

Confirm

Restore

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

When prompted, click

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

Finish

to reboot the computer.

Solving Problems 73

Page 74

When prompted, click

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

Click

System Restore

The

After the computer restarts, click OK.

Yes

screen appears and the computer restarts.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

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

To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:

Click the

Ty p e

hardware troubleshooter

Click

Hardware Troubleshooter

In the

Hardware Troubleshooter

computer

Start

button and click

, and click

Help and Support

in the

list, click

in the

field and click the arrow to start the search.

Search Results

I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my

list.

74 Solving Problems

Page 75

Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Begin

This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:

• You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" (see this page) and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" (see page 76).

• You have read the safety information in your Dell™

• A component can be replaced—or if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.

Recommended Tools

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

• Small flat-blade screwdriver

• Phillips screwdriver

• Small plastic scribe

• Flash BIOS update (see the Dell Support website at

Turning Off Your Computer

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn

off your computer.

Shut down the operating system:

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

Turn Off Computer

In the

Turn off computer

The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.

window, click

Turn o f f

Product Information Guide.

support.dell.com

)

Start

button, and then

Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

Adding and Replacing Parts 75

Page 76

Before Working Inside Your Computer

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

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

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a

card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.

NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to

servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.

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NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable

itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside

the computer.

Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.

Turn off your computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 75.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it

from the network wall jack.

Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you service the

computer.

76 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 77

Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the battery from the bay.

battery-bay latch release

battery

Remove the optical drive, if installed, from the optical drive bay. See "Optical Drive" on page 88.

Press the power button to ground the system board.

Remove any installed PC Cards from the PC Card slot. See "Removing a PC Card or Blank" on page 44.

Close the display and turn the computer upside down on a flat work surface.

Remove the hard drive. See "Hard Drive" on page 77.

Hard Drive

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

housing of the hard drive.

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see page 75) before removing the hard drive. Do

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

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

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

than Dell.

Adding and Replacing Parts 77

Page 78

NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to install an operating

system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive.

To replace the hard drive in the hard drive bay:

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Turn the computer over, and remove the hard drive screws.

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screws (2)

hard drive

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

"Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide.

Slide the hard drive out of the computer.

Remove the new drive from its packaging.

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

NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may

damage the connector.

Slide the hard drive into the bay until it is fully seated.

Replace and tighten the screws.

Install the operating system for your computer. See "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 71.

Install the drivers and utilities for your computer. See "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 70.

78 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 79

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original or comparable foam packaging. Otherwise, the hard drive may be damaged in transit.

hard drive

foam packaging

Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See "Specifications" on page 93 for information on the memory supported by your computer. Install only memory modules that are intended for your computer.

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

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

Product Information Guide.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

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

NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.

Adding and Replacing Parts 79

Page 80

Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the memory module cover, and then remove the memory module cover.

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

module securing clips.

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

Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up.

Remove the module from the connector.

memory module

80 Adding and Replacing Parts

securing clips (2 per connector)

Page 81

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

connector labeled “DIMMA” before you install a module in the connector labeled “DIMMB.” Insert memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.

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

message indicates this failure.

Ground yourself and install the new memory module:

Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.

Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.

notch

tab

Replace the memory module cover.

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

may damage your computer.

Adding and Replacing Parts 81

Page 82

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

Reinstall the hard drive. See "Hard Drive" on page 77.

Turn on the computer.

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

To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click the

Support

, and then click

Modem

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If you ordered the optional modem at the same time that you ordered your computer, the modem is already installed

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

Product Information Guide.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the modem cover, and then remove the modem cover.

Computer Information

Start

button, click

Help and

82 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 83

Remove the existing modem:

Remove the screw securing the modem to the system board, and set it aside.

Pull straight up on the attached pull-tab to lift the modem out of its connector on the system board, and disconnect the modem cable.

screw

modem cable

pull-tab

modem

system board connector

Install the replacement modem:

Connect the modem cable to the modem.

NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the

connectors and realign the card.

Align the modem with the screw holes and press the modem into the connector on the

system board.

Replace the screw that secures the modem to the system board.

Replace the modem cover.

Adding and Replacing Parts 83

Page 84

Wireless Mini PCI Card

If you ordered a Mini PCI card with your computer, the card is already installed.

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

Product Information Guide.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 88.

Remove the keyboard. See "Keyboard" on page 89.

If a Mini PCI card is not already installed, go to step 5. If you are replacing a Mini PCI card, remove the existing card:

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Disconnect the Mini PCI card from any attached cables.

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

Lift the Mini PCI card out of its connector.

NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the

connectors and realign the card.

Mini PCI card

metal securing tabs (2)

84 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 85

Install the replacement Mini PCI card:

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

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the Mini PCI card, never place cables under the card.

Connect the antenna cables to the Mini PCI card.

Mini PCI card

antenna cables

Coin-Cell Battery

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by

periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin

working inside the computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 88.

Remove the keyboard. See "Keyboard" on page 89.

Adding and Replacing Parts 85

Page 86

Insert a plastic scribe into the guide on the side of the coin-cell battery compartment, and pop the battery out.

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coin-cell battery

When you replace the battery, insert it at a 30-degree angle under the clip with the positive (identified by a plus [+] symbol) side up, and then push it into place.

Display

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by

periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin

working inside the computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 88.

86 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 87

Remove the four screws securing the display.

Disconnect the antennae cables (pull to separate the connectors).

Remove the grounding wire screw.

Disconnect the display cable, using the pull-tab.

grounding wire screw

display cable trough

Lift the display up and away from the computer.

display cable pull-tab

antenna cables

screws (4)

antenna cable clip

display cable connector on system board

When you replace the display, ensure that the display cable is lying flat in the display cable trough and securely tucked underneath the tabs.

Also, ensure that the antenna cables are not twisted and that they are lying flat in the antenna cable clip.

Adding and Replacing Parts 87

Page 88

Optical Drive

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

Product Information Guide.

Turn the computer over.

Remove the optical-drive security screw.

Insert a scribe into the notch and push it to the side to release the drive from the bay.

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optical drive

notch

Slide the drive out of the bay.

Hinge Cover

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by

periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

88 Adding and Replacing Parts

optical-drive security screw

Page 89

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin

working inside the computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the hinge cover.:

Open the display all the way (180 degrees) so that it lies flat against your work surface.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the hinge cover, do not lift the cover on both sides simultaneously.

Insert a scribe in the indent to lift the hinge cover on the right side.

Ease the hinge cover up, moving from right to left, and remove it.

NOTE: When replacing the hinge cover, first insert the left edge and then press from left to right until the

cover snaps into place.

hinge cover

Keyboard

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by

periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

Adding and Replacing Parts 89

Page 90

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin

working inside the computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Open the display.

Remove the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 88.

Remove the keyboard:

Remove the two screws at the top of the keyboard.

NOTICE: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace. Be

careful when removing and handling the keyboard.

Lift up the keyboard and hold it up and slightly forward to allow access to the keyboard

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connector.

Pull up on the keyboard connector pull-tab to disconnect the keyboard connector from the system board.

keyboard

screws (2)

tabs (5)

NOTICE: To avoid scratching the palm rest when replacing the keyboard, hook the five tabs along the

front edge of the keyboard into the palm rest, and then secure the keyboard in place.

90 Adding and Replacing Parts

keyboard connector pull-tab

system board connector

Page 91

Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by

periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin

working inside the computer.

If you ordered a card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer, it is already installed.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

If you have not already removed the battery, do so now.

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

Open the card door and remove it from the computer.

Pull the card out of the compartment so that you can disconnect the card from its cable and remove it from the computer.

To replace the card, connect the card to the cable and then carefully insert it into the compartment.

Replace the card door by inserting the small center tab into the notch at the base of the compartment and snapping the card into place.

card door

cable

card

Adding and Replacing Parts 91

Page 92

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92 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 93

Appendix

Specifications

Processor

Processor type Intel

L1 cache 32 KB

L2 cache 2 MB

External bus frequency 400 MHz and 533 MHz

System Information

System chip set Intel 915GM or Intel 915PM

Data bus width 64 bits

DRAM bus width Dual channel (2) 64-bit busses

Processor address bus width 32 bits

Flash EPROM 1 MB

Graphics Bus PCI-E X16

PCI bus 32 bits

PC Card

CardBus controller Ricoh R5C841

PC Card connector one (supports one Type I or Type II card)

Cards supported 3.3 V and 5 V

PC Card connector size 68 pins

Data width (maximum) PCMCIA 16 bits

Pentium® M or Intel Celeron® M

CardBus 32 bits

Memory

Memory module connector two user-accessible SODIMM connectors

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

Appendix 93

Page 94

Memory (continued)

Memory type 1.8-V SODIMM DDR-2

Minimum memory 256 MB

Maximum memory 2 GB

Ports and Connectors

Audio microphone connector, stereo

IEEE 1394a 4-pin serial connector

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Mini PCI one Type IIIA Mini PCI card slot

Modem RJ-11 port

Network adapter RJ-45 port

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

USB four 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors

Video 15-hole connector

SDI/O one slot

Communications

Modem:

Type

Controller

Interface

Network adapter 10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board

Wireless internal Mini PCI Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

headphone/speakers connector

to composite video adapter cable)

v.92 56K MDC

softmodem

internal AC’97 bus

wireless technology support

Video

Video type: integrated on system board

Data bus

Video controller

Video memory

LCD interface

TV support

94 Appendix

PCI

Intel 915 GM

Up to 64 MB of shared memory

LVDS

NTSC/PAL

Page 95

Video (continued)

Video type: discrete video card

Data bus

Video controller

Video memory

LCD interface

TV support

Audio

Audio type AC’97 (Soft Audio)

Audio controller

Stereo conversion 18-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-to-

Interfaces:

Internal

External

Speaker two 4-ohm speakers

Internal speaker amplifier 1-W channel into 4 ohms

Volume controls keyboard shortcuts, program menus, media

Audio controller Sigmatel STAC9751 AC’97 Codec

PCI Express X16

ATI Mobility Radeon X300

64 MB and 128 MB

LVDS

NTSC or PAL in S-video and composite modes

analog)

PCI bus/AC’97

microphone-in connector, stereo headphones/speakers connector

control buttons

Display

Type (active-matrix TFT) 15.4-inch WXGA, WSXGA+, and WUXGA

Dimensions:

Height

Width

Diagonal

Maximum resolutions:

WXGA

WSXGA+

WUXGA

222.5 mm (8.8 inches)

344.5 mm (13.6 inches)

391.2 mm (15.4 inches)

1280 x 800 at 16.7 million colors

1680 x 1050 at 16.7 million colors

1920 x 1200 at 16.7 million colors

Appendix 95

Page 96

Display (continued)

Refresh rate 60 Hz

Operating angle 0° (closed) to 180°

Viewing angles:

Horizontal

Vertical

Pixel pitch:

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WXGA

WSXGA+

WUXGA

Power consumption (

backlight) (typical)

Controls brightness can be controlled through

Keyboard

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

Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji

±65° (WSXGA+, WUXGA) ±40° (WXGA)

±50° (WSXGA+, WUXGA) +10°/–30° (WXGA)

0.258 mm

0.197 mm

0.173 mm

panel with

6.0 W (maximum)

keyboard shortcuts

91 (Japan)

Touch Pad

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

Size:

Width

Height

Battery

Type 9-cell "smart" lithium ion

Dimensions:

Depth

Height

Width

96 Appendix

73.0-mm (2.9-inch) sensor-active area

42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle

6-cell "smart" lithium ion

88.5 mm (3.5 inches)

21.5 mm (0.8 inch)

139.0 mm (5.5 inches)

Page 97

Battery (continued)

Weight 0.4 kg (0.9 lb) (9 cell)

0.3 kg (0.6 lb) (6 cell)

Voltage 14.8 VDC

Charge time (approximate)

Computer off

2 hours

Operating time Battery operating time varies depending on

operating conditions and can be significantly reduced under certain power-intensive conditions. See "Power Problems" on page 63.

See "Using a Battery" on page 27 for more information on battery life.

Life span (approximate) 500 discharge/charge cycles

Temperature range:

Operating

Storage

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

Coin-cell battery CR-2032

AC Adapter

Input voltage 90–264 VAC

Input current (maximum) 1.7 A

Input frequency 47–63 Hz

Output current 4.5 A (maximum at 4-second pulse);

3.5 A (continuous)

Output power 65 W

Rated output voltage 19.5 VDC

Dimensions:

Height

Width

Depth

27.9 mm (1.1 inches)

58.4 mm (2.3 inches)

133.9 mm (5.6 inches)

Weight (with cables) 0.4 kg (0.9 lb)

Temperature range:

Operating

Storage

0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

Appendix 97

Page 98

Physical

Height 38 mm (1.5 inches)

Width 354 mm (13.9 inches)

Depth 260 mm (10.2 inches)

Weight (with 6-cell battery):

Configurable to less than

Environmental

Temperature range:

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Operating

Storage

Relative humidity (maximum):

Operating

Storage

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

Operating

Storage

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

Operating

Storage

Altitude (maximum):

Operating

Storage

3.08 kg (6.8 lb)

0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F)

–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)

10% to 90% (noncondensing)

5% to 95% (noncondensing)

0.9 GRMS

1.3 GRMS

122 G

163 G

–15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

–15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

98 Appendix

Page 99

Using the System Setup Program

Overview

NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in system setup,

thus overriding options that you set through system setup. (An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through system setup.) For more information on configuring features for your operating system, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9.

The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings for your computer, such as:

• System configuration

• Basic device-configuration settings

• System security and hard-drive password settings

• Power management settings

• Boot (start-up) configuration and display settings

• Docking-device settings

• Wireless control settings

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

not change the system setup settings. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly.

Viewing the System Setup Screen

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

System Setup Screen

The system setup screen consists of three windows of information. The window on the left contains an expandable hierarchy of control categories. If you select (highlight) a category (such as

Onboard Devices

The window on the right contains information about the category or subcategory selected in the window on the left.

The window at the bottom tells you how to control system setup with key functions. Use these keys to select a category, modify its settings, or exit system setup.

, or

Video

) and press <Enter>, you can show or hide the related subcategories.

System

Appendix 99

Page 100

Commonly Used Options

Certain options require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect.

Changing the Boot Sequence

The

boot sequence, or boot order,

start the operating system. You can control the boot sequence and enable/disable devices using the

Boot Order

The

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computer, including but not limited to the following:

• Diskette Drive

• Internal HDD

• USB Storage Device

• CD/DVD/CD-RW drive

• Modular bay HDD

During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device for the operating system start-up files. When the computer finds the files, it stops searching and starts the operating system.

To control the boot devices, select (highlight) a device by pressing the down-arrow or up-arrow key, and then enable or disable the device or change its order in the list.

• To enable or disable a device, highlight the item and press the space bar. Enabled items are

• To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and press either <u> to move the device

Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit system setup.

page of system setup.

NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a One-Time Boot" on

page 100.

Boot Order

NOTE: Only devices that are preceded by a number are bootable.

preceded by a number; disabled items are not preceded by a number.

up the list or <d> to move a device down the list.

tells the computer where to look to find the software needed to

page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your

Performing a One-Time Boot

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

100 Appendix

Shut down the computer through the

Start

menu.

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

Dell PP12L User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Contents

Finding Information

A Tour of Your Computer

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

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 CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia

Using CDs and DVDs

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs

Helpful Tips

Using Dell MediaDirect

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video Connection

Composite Video Connection

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

System Functions

Battery

CD or DVD Tray

Display Functions

Power Management

Speaker Functions

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

Using PC Cards

PC Card Types

PC Card Blanks

Extended PC Cards

Installing a PC Card

Removing a PC Card or Blank

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

Solving Problems

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

Drive Problems

DVD drive problems

Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

External keyboard problems

Unexpected characters