Dell PP20L User Manual

Download

Page 1

Dell™ Inspiron™ 6400/E1505

Owner’s Manual

Model PP20L

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 "Glossary" on page 169.

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

Windows®

____________________

Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, DellNet, OptiPlex, Latitude, P owerEdge, P owerConnect,

PowerVault, PowerApp, Dell TravelLite, ExpressCharge, Dell Media Experience, MediaDirect, XPS, and Strike Zone are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Core is a trademark and Intel and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, 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; IBM is a registered trademark of IBM Corporation; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; ENERGY STAR is a re gistered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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 PP20L

August 2006 P/N MD402 Rev. A04

Page 3

Contents

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

1 About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Determining Your Computer’s Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

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

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

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

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

2 Setting Up Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System CD

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable Connecting a USB Printer

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors Line Conditioners

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

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

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

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

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

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

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

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

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

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

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

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

Contents 3

Page 4

3 Using the Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Adjusting Brightness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Switching the Video Image

Setting Display Resolution

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

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

4 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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

Key Combinations

System Functions Display Functions Power Management Speaker Functions Microsoft QuickSet Key Combinations Adjusting Keyboard Settings

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

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

Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

5 Using a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

4 Contents

Checking the Battery Charge

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

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft Charge Gauge Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Power Management Modes

Windows® Power Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

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

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

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

Configuring Power Management Settings

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

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

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

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

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

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

Page 5

6 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Playing CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD Using Blank CDs and DVDs Helpful Tips

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

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

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

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

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

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

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

Using Dell Media Experience™ and Dell MediaDirect™

If the computer is turned on or in standby mode

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

If the computer is turned off or in hibernate mode Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience Help

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

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

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

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

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

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio Component Video and Standard Audio Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7Using Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

ExpressCards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

ExpressCard Blanks Installing an ExpressCard Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

Media Memory Cards

Installing a Media Memory Card Removing a Media Memory Card

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contents 5

Page 6

8 Setting Up a Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem . . . . . . . . . . 69

Network Setup Wizard

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection Checking Your Wireless Network Card Setting Up a New WLAN Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monitoring the Status of Wireless Network Connections Through Dell™ QuickSet

Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

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

. . . . . . . . . 74

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

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

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

9 Securing Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Passwords

Computer Tracking Software

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

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

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

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

10 Solving Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

6 Contents

Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Dell Support Utility

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

Drive Problems

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . 83

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

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

Page 7

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Error Messages

ExpressCard Problems

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

External Keyboard problems Unexpected characters

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up The computer stops responding

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly A program is designed for an earlier

Microsoft A solid blue screen appears Dell MediaDirect problems Other software problems

Memory Problems

Network Problems

Windows® operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [WWAN])

Power Problems

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

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

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

. . . . . . . 93

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

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

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

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

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

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

Contents 7

Page 8

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

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

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

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

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec Using the Operating System CD

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

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

11 Adding and Replacing Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer

Optical Drive

Hard Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

Memory

Modem

Hinge Cover

Keyboard

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

12 Dell™ QuickSet Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

8 Contents

Wireless Mini-Card

Coin-Cell Battery

Display

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Internal Card With Bluetooth

Wireless Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Page 9

13 Traveling With Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Identifying Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Packing the Computer

Travel Tips

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Traveling by Air

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

14 Contacting Dell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

15 Specifications

16 Appendix

Using the System Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

Viewing the System Setup Screen System Setup Screen Commonly Used Options

Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Display Touch Pad Floppy Drive CDs and DVDs

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

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

FCC Notice (U.S. Only)

FCC Class B

Macrovision Product Notice

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

. . . . . . . . . 167

. . . . . . . . . . . 167

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Index

Contents 9

Page 10

10 Contents

Page 11

Finding Information

NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or media may

not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• My device documentation

• Notebook System Software (NSS)

Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as ResourceCD)

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may be optional and may

not ship with your computer.

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 100) or to run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

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

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at

support.dell.com.

Dell™ Product Information Guide

Finding Information 11

Page 12

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

Setup Diagram

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License

These labels are located on

• Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you

support.dell.com

use

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

the bottom of

or contact technical support.

your computer.

12 Finding Information

Page 13

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support

site.

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

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

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

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

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.

• Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints

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

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

Enter your Service Tag or product model.

In the

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

Under

Configuration Utilities Software

Dell Support Utility

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

icon in the taskbar. For more information, see "Dell Support Utility" on page 82.

• How to use Windows XP

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

Windows Help and Support Center

Click the

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

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

and click

Download Category

Select a Device

, scroll to

, and click

Start

button and click

Downloads

drop-down menu, click

Submit.

System and

Dell Notebook System

Help and Support

All

Finding Information 13

Page 14

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to reinstall my operating system

Operating System CD

NOTE: The Operating System CD is optional and may not ship

with your computer.

The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use one of the following methods:

• Microsoft Windows Windows earlier operating state without affecting data files.

•Dell

PC Restore

to its original operating state. Dell ship with your computer.

Operating System

•

System

your operating system.

For more information, see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 102.

operating system you ordered.

System Restore

— Dell

CD with your computer, you can use it to restore

returns your computer to an

PC Restore

CD — If you received an

— Microsoft

returns your computer

PC Restore

After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD) (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 100) to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

may not

Operating

NOTE: The color of your CD

varies based on the

14 Finding Information

Page 15

About Your Computer

Determining Your Computer’s Configuration

Based on selections that you made when purchasing your computer, your computer has one of several different video controller configurations. To determine your computer’s video controller configuration:

Access the Microsoft®Windows® Help and Support Center. For instructions, see

and Support Center" on page 13

Under

Pick a Task

Under

My Computer Information

From the My Computer Information - Hardware screen, you can view the type of video controller installed in your computer, as well as the other hardware components.

, click

Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems.

, select

Hardware

"Windows Help

About Your Computer 15

Page 16

Front View

1 display latch release 5 touch pad 9 keyboard

2 display 6 media control buttons 10 Dell MediaDirect™ button

3 power button 7 speakers (2) 11 keyboard and wireless

status lights

4 device status lights 8 touch pad buttons 12 display latches (2)

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

DISPLAY — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on page 33.

16 About Your Computer

Page 17

POWER BUTTON

Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power management mode. See "Power Management Modes" on page 41.

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

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.

About Your Computer 17

Page 18

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse. Silk screening on the touch pad indicates scrolling

capabilities.

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

Mute the sound.

Turn the volume down.

Turn the volume up.

Play or pause.

Play the previous track.

Play 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 "Speaker Functions" on page 36.

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 36.

ELL MEDIADIRECT™ BUTTON — You can press the Dell MediaDirect button to launch either Microsoft

Windows Media Center Edition or another version of Windows XP with Dell Media Experience if either of these media applications is installed.

18 About Your Computer

Page 19

KEYBOARD AND WIRELESS STATUS LIGHTS

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

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>.

wireless

DISPLAY LATCHES — Keep the display closed.

About Your Computer 19

Page 20

Left Side View

3241

1 air vent 3 optical drive bay

2 security cable slot 4 optical-drive-tray eject

button

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.

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

overheating.

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

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

information, see the instructions included with the device.

20 About Your Computer

Page 21

OPTICAL DRIVE BAY — You can install devices such as a DVD drive or other optical drive in the optical drive bay.

For more information, see "Optical Drive" on page 111.

OPTICAL-DRIVE-TRAY EJECT BUTTON — Press this button to eject a CD or DVD from the optical drive.

Right Side View

34 5261

1 hard drive 3 5-in-1 media memory card

5 USB connectors (2)

reader

2 ExpressCard slot 4 audio connectors (2) 6 IEEE 1394 connector

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data. For more information, see "Hard Drive" on page 112 and "Hard drive

problems" on page 84.

XPRESSCARD SLOT — Supports one ExpressCard. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot.

You can add an ExpressCard to make WWAN connectivity available on your computer. For more information, see "Using Cards" on page 65.

IN-1 MEDIA MEMORY CARD READER — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos,

music, and videos stored on a media memory card. The 5-in-1 media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory cards:

• Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

•Memory Stick

• Memory Stick PRO

• xD-Picture Card

About Your Computer 21

Page 22

AUDIO CONNECTORS

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

USB CONNECTORS

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

cable.

drive

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

directly to a USB connector using the optional floppy-

Back View

1 4 532 6

1 AC adapter connector 3 modem connector (RJ-11) 5 video connector

2 network connector (RJ-45) 4 USB connectors (2) 6 S-video TV-out connector

22 About Your Computer

Page 23

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

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

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

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

and pull firmly but gently to help prevent damage to the cable.

NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)

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)

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.

NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To help prevent damage to the

computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network connector.

VIDEO CONNECTOR

Connects an external VGA-compatible monitor.

S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

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

About Your Computer 23

Page 24

Bottom View

1 2

1 battery charge gauge 4 battery 7 fan

2 optical-drive locking screw 5 hard drive

3 battery-bay latch release 6 modem/memory module

cover

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE — Provides information on the battery charge status. See "Checking the Battery Charge"

on page 40.

OPTICAL-DRIVE LOCKING SCREW — Secures the optical drive in the optical drive bay. For more information, see

"Optical Drive" on page 111.

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE — Releases the battery from the battery bay. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 43.

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 39.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data. For more information, see "Hard Drive" on page 112 and "Hard drive

problems" on page 84.

MODEM/MEMORY MODULE COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the modem and the memory modules.

For more information, see "Modem" on page 117 and "Memory" on page 114.

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

overheating.

24 About Your Computer

Page 25

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). 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 Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut:

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

Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

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

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

Click the

The

Start

button and click

New Connection Wizard

Internet Explorer

appears.

Click

Connect to the Internet

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

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

providers (ISPs)

Choose from a list of Internet service

Setting Up Your Computer 25

Page 26

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

Set up my connection manually

click

• If you have a CD, click

Click

If you selected on the screen to complete the setup.

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

Click the appropriate option under

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 84. 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.

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions

How do you want to connect to the Internet?

, and then click

Transferring Information to a New Computer

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

• E-mail messages

• Toolbar settings

• Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

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

NOTE: For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, go to

support.microsoft.com and search for Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #305621, titled How to Set Up a Direct Cable Connection Between Two Computers in Windows XP. This information may not be available in some countries.

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

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System CD

NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System CD. This CD is optional and may not be included with all

computers.

26 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 27

Prepare the New Computer for the File Transfer

Start the

When the

On the

On the and click

When the click

Copy Data From the Old Computer

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

Under

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

Now go to your old computer

at this time.

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

, click

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

What do you want to transfer?

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Finish

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer

screen, click

I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD

and click

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

Operating System

screen, click

Transfer files and settings

welcome screen, click

Old Computer

CD.

Perform additional tasks

and click

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Completing the Collection Phase

screen appears.

not

Transfer Data to the New Computer

On the

On the settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

screen, select the method you chose for transferring your

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

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

Click

Finished

and restart the new computer.

Finished

screen appears.

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD

To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the optional Operating System CD, you must create a wizard disk that lets you create a backup of your data files. Create the wizard disk on removable media so that you can move it from your new computer to your old computer.

Setting Up Your Computer 27

Page 28

Create a Wizard Disk

Click the

Click

When the

On the

drive:

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

When the disk creation completes and the

Go to the old computer.

Copy Data From the Old Computer

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click the

In the media) and click

On the

After the information has been copied, the

Start

button.

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

and click

Next.

Start

Open

button and click

field on the

Run

window, browse to the path for

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

What do you want to transfer?

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer

screen, click

Now go to your old computer

welcome screen, click

Old Computer

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Completing the Collection Phase

and click

I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following

message appears,

fastwiz

(on the appropriate removable

and click

do not

click

screen appears.

Click

Finish

Transfer Data to the New Computer

On the

On the settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

. Follow the instructions on the screen.

screen, select the method you chose for transferring your

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

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

Click

Finished

NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search dell.support.com for document #PA1089586 (How Do I

Transfer Files From My Old Computer to My New Dell Computer Using the Microsoft System?).

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

and restart the new computer.

Finished

screen appears.

Windows® XP Operating

28 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 29

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.

For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the printer manufacturer.

Printer Cable

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

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.

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

Setting Up Your Computer 29

Page 30

1 USB connector on

computer

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

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

Cancel

2 USB printer cable 3 connector on printer

Add New Hardware Wizard

window

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 prevent damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or after power interruptions. 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.

30 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 31

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

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

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

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

network wall jack during electrical storms.

Line Conditioners

NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.

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

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

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

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Computer 31

Page 32

32 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 33

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

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

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

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

You can press the following keys (key combinations) to adjust display brightness:

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

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

Switching the Video Image

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

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

Setting Display Resolution

To display a program at a specific resolution, both the graphics card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.

Before you change any of the default display settings, make a note of the default settings for future reference.

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

Click the

Under

Start

button and click

Pick a category

Control Panel

, click

Appearance and Themes

Using the Display 33

Page 34

Under

Pick a task...

Display

Try different settings for

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

, click the area you want to change, or under

Color quality

and

Screen resolution

or pick a Control Panel icon

, click

34 Using the Display

Page 35

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the 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 35

Page 36

Key Combinations

System Functions

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

Display Functions

<Fn><F8> Displays icons representing all currently available display

options (for example, display only, external monitor or projector only, both display and projector, and so on). Highlight the desired icon to switch the display to that option.

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

on an external monitor).

<Fn> and down-arrow key

Power Management

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

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

reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window. See "Power Management Modes" on page 41.

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.

36 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 37

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Windows logo key and <m>

Windows logo key and <Shift><m>

Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer.

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

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

Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f>

Windows logo key and <Pause>

Minimizes all open windows.

Restores all minimized windows. This command functions as a toggle to restore (maximize) all windows previously minimized with the use of the Windows logo key and <m> key combination.

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

Opens the System Properties dialog box.

QuickSet Key Combinations

If QuickSet is installed, you can use other shortcut keys for functions such as the Battery Meter or activating power management modes. For more information about QuickSet key combinations, rightclick the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

Adjusting Keyboard Settings

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

Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 37

Page 38

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.

1 touch pad 2 silk screen, depicting scrolling capabilities

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

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

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

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

The touch pad has silk screening on two sides to indicate scrolling capability in these scroll zones. Scrolling is enabled by default. To disable this feature, modify the mouse properties through the Control Panel.

NOTE: The scroll zones may not work with all application programs. For the scroll zones to function properly, the

application program must be able to use the touch-pad scroll feature.

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

Open the Control Panel, click about the Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.

In the

Mouse Properties

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

38 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Printers and Other Hardware

window, click the

Touch Pad

, and then click

tab to adjust touch pad settings.

Mouse

. For information

Page 39

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

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

separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer.

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

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

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

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 optical drives

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

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

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode (See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 43.)

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

You can check the battery charge (see "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 40) before you insert the battery into the computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 43 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.

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

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

Using a Battery 39

Page 40

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.

Checking the Battery Charge

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

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer. For information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, doubleclick the icon on the taskbar. For instructions on accessing more information about the Power Meter, see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 43.

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

Charge Gauge

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

• Battery charge (check by pressing and

• Battery health (check by pressing and

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

Check the Battery Charge

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

40 Using a Battery

releasing

holding

the status button)

Page 41

Check the Battery Health

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

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

To check the battery health using the charge gauge, press and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See "Specifications" on page 155 for more information about the battery operating time.

Low-Battery Warning

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

connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.

By default, a pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. You can change the settings for the battery alarms. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 43 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.

Conserving Battery Power

Perform the following actions to conserve battery power:

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

• Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time. See "Power Management Modes" on page 41 for more information about standby and hibernate modes.

• Use the Power Management Wizard options can also be set to change when you press the power button, close the display, or press <Fn><Esc>. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 43 for more information on using the Power Management Wizard.

to select options to optimize your computer’s power usage. These

NOTE: See "Battery Performance" on page 39 for more information on conserving battery power.

Power Management Modes

Standby Mode

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

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

Using a Battery 41

Page 42

To enter standby mode:

• Click the

Start

button, click

Turn off computer

, and then click

Stand by

• Depending on how you set the power management options on the Power Management Settings" on page 43) in the

Power Options Properties

Advanced

tab (see "Configuring

window, use one of the

following methods:

– Press the power button.

– Close the display.

– Press <Fn><Esc>.

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

Hibernate Mode

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

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

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

To manually enter hibernate mode:

•Click the

Start

button, click

Turn off computer

, press and hold <Shift>, and then click

Hibernate

• Depending on how you set the power management options on the

Properties

window, use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:

Advanced

tab in the

Power Options

– Press the power button.

– Close the display.

– Press <Fn><Esc>.

NOTE: Some ExpressCards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove and

reinsert the card (see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 66), or simply restart (reboot) your computer.

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

42 Using a Battery

Page 43

Configuring Power Management Settings

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

• To access the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, double-click the icon in the taskbar. For more information about QuickSet, click the

• To access the

and Maintenance

window, click the question mark icon on the title bar and then click on the area corresponding to the information that you need.

Power Options Properties

→ Power Options

Help

button in the Power Management Wizard.

window, click the

. For information on any field in the

Start

button→

Control Panel→

Power Options Properties

Performance

Charging the Battery

NOTE: Without Dell™ ExpressCharge™, the AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately

1 hour with the computer turned off. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer as long as you like. The battery’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 94.

Replacing the Battery

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

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

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

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

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

NOTICE: If you choose to replace the battery with the computer in standby mode, you have up to 1 minute to

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

Using a Battery 43

Page 44

To remove the battery:

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

Ensure that the computer is turned off or suspended in a power management mode.

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

1 battery-bay latch release 2 battery

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

Storing a Battery

Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully (see "Charging the Battery" on page 43) before you use it.

44 Using a Battery

Page 45

Using Multimedia

Playing CDs or DVDs

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

are not using the drive.

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

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

Pull out the tray.

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

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

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

Push the tray back into the drive.

Using Multimedia 45

Page 46

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

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

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

Copying CDs and DVDs

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

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

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

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

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

How to Copy a CD or DVD

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

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

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

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

Click

Start→

All Programs→ Roxio→ Creator Projects→

Under the

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

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

46 Using Multimedia

Copy

If you have one CD/DVD drive

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

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

If you have two CD/DVD drives

DVD, and then click blank CD or DVD.

tab, click

Disc Copy

, ensure that the settings are correct, and then click

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

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

RecordNow Copy

Disc Copy

. The

Page 47

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

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

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

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

CD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +R W Yes Ye s Ye s

DV D -R W Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Maybe No No

DVD-RAM Maybe No No

Helpful Tips

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

• Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs may not play in many home or car stereos.

• You cannot create audio DVDs with Roxio Creator Plus.

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

Using Multimedia 47

Page 48

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

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

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

• See the Sonic website at

www.sonic.com

for additional information.

Adjusting the Volume

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

Click

Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment→ Volume Control

Click and drag the bar in the

Volume Control

column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease

the volume.

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

The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either click the

icon in the taskbar and select or deselect Disable On Screen Volume Meter, or press the volume

control buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.

1 volume icon 2 Volume Meter 3 mute icon

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

• Press

<Fn> <PageUp> to increase volume.

<Fn> <PageDn> to decrease volume.

<Fn> <End> to mute volume.

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

48 Using Multimedia

Page 49

Adjusting the Picture

If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties.

Click

Start→

Control Panel→ Appearance and Themes

Under

Pick a task...

Under

Screen resolution

In the drop-down menu under

, click

Change the screen resolution

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

Color quality

, click

Medium (16 bit)→ OK

Using Dell Media Experience™ and Dell MediaDirect™

Based on configuration settings and selections you made when ordering your computer, your computer provides support for:

• Dell Media Experience, which is a multimedia user interface for accessing and playing digital media, such as music and videos.

• Dell MediaDirect, which is an instant-on multimedia playback mode for digital media.

NOTE: Dell QuickSet is necessary for Dell MediaDirect to function. Changing or disabling the QuickSet default

settings can limit Dell MediaDirect functionality. For more information about Dell QuickSet, see "Dell QuickSet."

Press the Dell MediaDirect button, located on the hinge cover, to launch either Dell Media Experience or Dell MediaDirect.

If the computer is turned on or in standby mode

If you press the Dell MediaDirect button while the computer is turned on or in standby mode, either Windows XP Media Center Manager or Dell Media Experience launches, depending on your system setup. If both applications are present, Windows XP Media Center Manager launches.

NOTE: If both Windows XP Media Center and Dell Media Experience are installed on your computer, you must

→

launch Dell Media Experience. Click Start

All Programs or click the Media Experience icon on the desktop.

If the computer is turned off or in hibernate mode

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

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

hard drive. You need the installation software to reinstall the media applications. Contact Dell for assistance. See "Contacting Dell."

Using Multimedia 49

Page 50

1 Dell MediaDirect button

Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience Help

The Dell media application on your computer provides help information. When you launch the media application, click on the desktop icon for additional help.

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

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

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

Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with a standard S-video cable, a composite video adapter cable, or a component video adapter cable (available from Dell), enable you to connect the computer to a TV.

Your TV has either an S-video input connector, a composite video-input connector, or a component video-input connector. Depending on what type of connector is available on your TV, you can use a commercially available S-video cable, composite video cable, or component video cable to connect your computer to your TV.

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 S-video connector

50 Using Multimedia

Page 51

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter 3 S/PDIF digital audio

4 composite video-output

connector

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter 3 S/PDIF digital audio

4 Pr (red) component video-

output connector

5 S-video connector

5 Pb (blue) component video-

output connector

connector

6 Y (green) component video-

output connector

If you want to connect your computer to a TV or audio device, it is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the following combinations.

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

you should use.

• S-video and standard audio

• Composite video and standard audio

• Component-out video and standard audio

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 63 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. Additionally, if you are using S/PDIF digital audio, see "Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio" on page 62.

Using Multimedia 51

Page 52

S-Video and Standard Audio

1 audio connector 2 S-video TV-out connector

1 standard S-video cable 2 standard audio cable

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

NOTE: You can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer (without the

TV/digital audio adapter cable) if your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio.

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

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

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

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

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

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 63 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

52 Using Multimedia

Page 53

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter

1 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable 3 S/PDIF digital audio cable

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

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

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

Using Multimedia 53

Page 54

1 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable

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

Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the digital audio connector on the composite video

adapter cable.

1 2

1 composite video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable

Plug the other end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the audio input connector on your TV or 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 63 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

54 Using Multimedia

Page 55

Composite Video and Standard Audio

1 audio input connector 2 S-video TV-out connector 3 composite video adapter

1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable 3 standard audio cable

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

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

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

Using Multimedia 55

Page 56

1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable

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

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

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

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

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 63 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter

56 Using Multimedia

1 2

Page 57

1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable 3 standard audio cable

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

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

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

1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable

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

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

1 2

1 composite video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable

Using Multimedia 57

Page 58

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

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

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 63 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Component Video and Standard Audio

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter

1 component video adapter 2 component video cable 3 standard audio cable

58 Using Multimedia

Page 59

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

Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer.

Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the corresponding adapter ports.

1 component video adapter 2 component video cable

Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable into the component videoinput connectors on the TV. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the colors of the TV input connectors.

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

Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on your TV or 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 63 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Using Multimedia 59

Page 60

Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter

1 component video adapter 2 component video cable 3 standard audio cable

60 Using Multimedia

Page 61

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

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

1 component video adapter 2 component video-output

connectors

Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable into the component video-

3 component video cable

input connectors on the TV. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the colors of the TV input connectors.

Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the S/PDIF audio connector on the component video adapter.

1 component video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable

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

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

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 63 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Using Multimedia 61

Page 62

COMMENT

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio

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

Click

Start

, point to

All Programs

, and click

PowerDVD

to launch the

Cyberlink PowerDVD

application.

Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.

If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.

Click the

Click the arrows beside the

SPDIF

Click the

Enabling S/PDIF in the Windows Audio Driver

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

Click the

Click

Click OK.

Settings

DVD

option.

DVD Audio Setting

option.

Back

button once, and then click the

Options

Advanced

menu and then click

S/PDIF Interface

icon.

Speaker Configuration

Advanced Controls

setting to scroll through the options, and select the

Back

button again to return to the main menu screen.

Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones

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

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

Click

Start

Insert a DVD into the DVD drive.

, point to

If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button.

Click the

Settings

DVD

DVD Audio Setting

62 Using Multimedia

All Programs

option.

, and click

icon.

PowerDVD

to launch the

Cyberlink PowerDVD

program.

Page 63

Click the arrows beside the

Headphones

Click the arrows beside the

CL Headphone

Click the arrows beside the

Click the

option.

Back

button once, and then click the

Speaker Configuration

Audio listening mode

setting to scroll through the options, and select the

Dynamic range compression

Back

button again to return to the main menu screen.

option to select the most suitable option.

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

Video Controller

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

display settings.

Click the

Double-click

Click

Click the tab for your video card.

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

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

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

Start

Display

Advanced

button, point to

and click the

Settings

, and then click

Control Panel

tab.

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

Using Multimedia 63

Page 64

64 Using Multimedia

Page 65

Using Cards

ExpressCards

ExpressCards leverage PC Card technology to provide a fast and convenient way to add memory, wired and wireless network communications (including wireless wide area network [WWAN] communications), multimedia, and security features to your computer.

See "Specifications" on page 155 for information on supported ExpressCards.

NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.

ExpressCard Blanks

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

To remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 66.

Installing an ExpressCard

You can install an ExpressCard in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card.

ExpressCards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) or a label 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.

To install an ExpressCard:

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.

Using Cards 65

Page 66

1 ExpressCard

The computer recognizes the ExpressCard 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 ExpressCard.

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

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

Information Guide.

NOTICE: Use the ExpressCard 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.

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

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

66 Using Cards

Page 67

1 release button 2 ExpressCard

Media Memory Cards

The 5-in-1 media memory card reader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card.

NOTE: A media memory card is not a bootable device.

The 5-in-1 media memory card reader reads the following media memory cards:

• Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

• Memory Stick

• Memory Stick PRO

• xD-Picture Card

Installing a Media Memory Card

You can install a media memory card in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card.

Using Cards 67

Page 68

Media memory cards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) or a label 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.

To install a media memory card:

Hold the card with the top side of the card facing up.

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.

1 5-in-1 media memory card slot 2 media memory card

The computer recognizes the media memory card and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the CD that came with the media memory card, if applicable.

Removing a Media Memory Card

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

Information Guide.

NOTICE: Use the media memory 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.

Press the card in to release it from the card reader so that it is partially ejected, and remove the card.

68 Using Cards

Page 69

Setting Up a Network

Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem

Before you connect your computer to a network that is not wireless, 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 connector until it clicks into place, and then gently pull the cable to ensure that it is

securely attached.

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

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

Setting Up a Network 69

Page 70

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

Setup Wizard

On the welcome screen, click

Click

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

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

Complete the checklist.

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

Start

button, point to

Checklist for creating a network

Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

, and then click

Network

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

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

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:

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

• A broadband modem that is connected and working

• A wireless router or access point

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

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

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

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

• The

• Your order confirmation

70 Setting Up a Network

Start

button and the

Connect To

option

Page 71

Start Button and Connect To Option

Click the

Point to

Start

button.

Connect To

, and then click

Show all connections

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

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

Right-click

Click card’s name and model number are listed on the

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

Start button, pointing to Settings, and then pointing to Network Connections. If Wireless Network Connection does

not appear, you may not have a wireless network card.

Order Confirmation

Wireless Network Connection.

Properties

. The

Wireless Network Connection Properties

General

window appears. The wireless network

tab.

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

Setting Up a New WLAN

Connecting a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem

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

Ensure that you have wired Internet access through your broadband modem before you attempt to set up a wireless Internet connection. See "Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem" on page 69.

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

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

Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.

Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem.

Start

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

network setup.

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

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

Setting Up a Network 71

Page 72

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

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

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

Tu r n o n

only

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

stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to step 12.

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

Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.

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

• Establish communication between your computer and your wireless router.

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

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

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

If necessary, configure your wireless network card to connect to the wireless network. See "Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network" on page 72.

Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network

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

Network (WLAN)" on page 70.

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

or cellular products.

This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network via wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary. See "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 70 for more information about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.

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

wireless technology

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

network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on page 70.

72 Setting Up a Network

Page 73

Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager

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

• Your wireless network card’s configuration utility

• The Windows XP operating system

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

Click the

Double-click

Right-click the

Start

button, point to

Settings

Network Connections

Wireless Network Connection

, and then click

Control Panel

icon, and then click

View Available Wireless Networks

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

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

For specific information about the wireless configuration utility installed on your computer, see your wireless network documentation in the Windows Help and Support Center.

To access the Help and Support Center:

Click the

Under

Start

button and click

Pick a Help topic

Device Guides

, select the documentation for your wireless network card.

Help and Support

, click

Dell User and System Guides

Completing the Connection to the WLAN

When you turn on your computer and a network (for which your computer is not configured) is detected in the area, a pop-up appears near the

icon in the notification area (in the lower-right corner of the

Windows desktop).

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

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

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

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

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

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

Setting Up a Network 73

Page 74

Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card

NOTE: If you are unable to connect to a wireless network, ensure that you have all the components for

establishing a WLAN (see "What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection" on page 70), and then verify that your wireless network card is enabled by pressing <Fn><F2>.

You can turn your computer’s wireless networking function on and off by pressing the <Fn><F2> key combination. If the wireless networking function is turned on, press <Fn><F2> to disable it. If the wireless networking function is turned off, press <Fn><F2> to enable it.

Monitoring the Status of Wireless Network Connections Through Dell™ QuickSet

The wireless activity indicator provides an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. Right-click the Dell QuickSet icon in your taskbar to select or deselect Wireless Activity Indicator Off to turn the wireless activity indicator on or off.

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

For more information about the wireless activity indicator, see the Dell QuickSet Help file. For information about QuickSet and how to access the Dell QuickSet Help file, see "Dell™ QuickSet Features" on page 129.

Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

Much like a WLAN, a Mobile Broadband network (also known as a WWAN) is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other through wireless technology. However, a Mobile Broadband network uses cellular technology and therefore provides Internet access in the same varied locations from which cellular telephone service is available. Your computer can maintain the Mobile Broadband network connection regardless of its physical location, as long as the computer remains in the service area of your cellular service provider.

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

NOTE: Depending on your computer, you can use either a Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or Mini-Card, but not

both, to establish a Mobile Broadband network connection.

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

• A Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or Mini-Card (depending on your computer’s configuration)

For instructions on using ExpressCards, see "ExpressCards" on page 65.

74 Setting Up a Network

Page 75

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

If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide for instructions. The user’s guide is available through the Windows Help and Support Center (or on the CD that accompanied your card if you purchased it separately from your computer). To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mobile Broadband ExpressCards or Mini-Cards. They do not apply to

internal cards with Bluetooth

NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate mobile broadband service through your cellular

service provider. For instructions and for additional information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide available through the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13. The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and on the CD included with your Mobile Broadband card if you purchased the card separately from your computer.

wireless technology or WLAN Mini-Cards.

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

Click the

Click

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

Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon,

Connect

NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button.

, in the Windows taskbar, to run the utility.

Setting Up a Network 75

Page 76

76 Setting Up a Network

Page 77

Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock

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

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

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

computer.

Passwords

Passwords prevent unauthorized access to your computer. When you first start your computer, you must assign a primary password at the prompt. If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state.

When using passwords, observe the following guidelines:

• Choose a password that you can remember, but not one that is easy to guess. For example, do not use the names of family members or pets for passwords.

• It is recommended that you do not write down your password. If you do write it down, however, ensure that the password is stored in a secure place.

Securing Your Computer 77

Page 78

• Do not share your password with other people.

• Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password.

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

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

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

If you forget any of your passwords, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 133). For your protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.

Computer Tracking Software

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

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

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

that provides the tracking service to report the missing computer.

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

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

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

know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.

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

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

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

78 Securing Your Computer

Page 79

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 "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 91 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.

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

Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD).

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

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

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

Shut down the computer.

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:

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

Diagnostics

from the boot menu and press <Enter>.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the

Microsoft

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

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

Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities CD.

Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

Solving Problems 79

Page 80

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

• During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.

• If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart the

computer, press <n>; to continue to the next test, press <y>; to retest the component that failed, press <r>.

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

contact Dell.

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

Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue

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

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD

Insert the

Shut down and restart the computer.

Drivers and Utilities

CD.

Booting Dell

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

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

NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer boots

according to the devices specified in the system setup program.

When the boot device list appears, highlight

Select the

Ty p e 1 to start the

Select

Boot from CD-ROM

ResourceCD

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

menu and press <Enter> to proceed.

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive

and press <Enter>.

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

the version appropriate for your computer.

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

appears, select the test you want to run.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the

Main Menu

screen appears, click the button for the option

you want.

Option Function

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

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

80 Solving Problems

Page 81

Option Function

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

takes 1 hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically.

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

want to run.

Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and

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

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 "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

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

technical support will ask for your Service Tag.

If you run a test from the

Custom Test

Symptom Tree

option, click the applicable tab described in

the following table for more information.

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and

the problem description.

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for

running the test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected

device.

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

Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test

settings.

Solving Problems 81

Page 82

When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the CD, remove the CD.

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

Main Menu

screen.

Drivers and Utilities

screen. To exit the

Dell Support Utility

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

Accessing the Dell Support Utility

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

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

Click the

Click

Ensure that the

The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment.

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

Start

button and point to

Dell Support

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

the software.

and point to

Show icon on the taskbar

Programs

Dell Support Settings

option is checked.

Clicking the Dell Support Icon

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

• Check your computing environment

• View the Dell Support Utility settings

• Access the help file for the Dell Support Utility

• View frequently asked questions

• Learn more about the Dell Support Utility

• Turn the Dell Support Utility off

Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon

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

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

82 Solving Problems

Page 83

Drive Problems

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

Information Guide.

NSURE THAT MICROSOFT

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 — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 165.

ENSURE THAT THE CD IS SNAPPED ONTO THE SPINDLE

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

CHECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on

page 102.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79.

CD and DVD drive problems

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

the drive or the CD or DVD.

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

WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My

Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive

CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS —

The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If

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

TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC — See "Power

Management Modes" on page 41 for information on standby mode.

CHANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE —

See the help files for your CD or DVD creation software.

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

Ensure that the computer is 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.

Solving Problems 83

Page 84

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 —

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

To ol s

tab.

Error-checking

, click

My Computer

Check Now

Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors

Start

A hot hard drive may prevent the operating

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.

HECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK

attachments:

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK

EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS —

Tools

, click

Options

, and then click

to remove the checkmark.

If you cannot open your e-mail

Security

USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE

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

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

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

84 Solving Problems

Page 85

• 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 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.

RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS —

. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is

Helper

Click the

Start

button, point to

Programs

and then click

Modem

not 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

button and click

Control Panel

Printers and Other Hardware

Phone and Modem Options

Modems

Properties

tab.

, click the

Diagnostics

tab, and then click

Query Modem

to verify that the modem is

communicating with Windows.

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

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET —

provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click

Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet

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.

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

AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE — The touch pad, track stick, or external mouse may be faulty. For an

external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program (see "Using the System Setup Program" on page 163). If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

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

proper place, and used the correct pathname.

Solving Problems 85

Page 86

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

Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer. See

"Drive Problems" on page 83.

DATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot read the data. See "Drive Problems" on page 83.

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

Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them. See "Memory" on page 114.

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

Diagnostics. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79.

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

drive in the hard drive bay. See "Hard Drive" on page 112.

ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD — The computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert the card or

try another card. See "ExpressCards" on page 65.

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

the memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

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.

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

replace them. See "Memory" on page 114.

GENERAL FAILURE — The operating system is unable to carry out the command. The message is usually

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

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

computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 112), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

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

computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 112), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

86 Solving Problems

Page 87

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

down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 112), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

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

the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 112), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable CD. Insert a

bootable CD.

INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-PLEASE RUN SYS T E M SETUP PROGRAM — The system configuration

information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate options in the system setup program (see "Using the System Setup Program" on page 163).

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

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

KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Restart the

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

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

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

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

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

LICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN MEDIADIRECT — Dell MediaDirect™ cannot verify the Digital

Rights Management (DRM) restrictions on the file, so the file cannot be played. See "Dell MediaDirect problems" on page 92.

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

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 114).

MEMORY ALLOCATION ERROR — The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the operating

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

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

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 114).

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

may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 114).

Solving Problems 87

Page 88

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

be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 114).

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

faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 114).

NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — The computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard drive is your boot

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

NO BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE — The operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell. See

"Contacting Dell" on page 133.

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set

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

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 "Hard Drive" on page 112). If the problem

persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM — The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell. See "Contacting

Dell" on page 133.

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

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

SECTOR NOT FOUND — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may have a

Change/Remove

Control Panel

and follow the prompts on the screen.

defective sector or corrupted FAT on the hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility to check the file structure on the hard drive. See the Windows Help and Support Center for instructions. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13. If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the hard drive.

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

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

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

TIME- OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER —

System configuration settings are corrupted. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to restore the data by entering the system setup program. Then immediately exit the program. See "Using the System Setup Program" on page 163. If the message reappears, contact Dell.

See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

88 Solving Problems

Page 89

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

require recharging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

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

setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date and Time options. See

"Using the System Setup Program" on page 163

TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System

Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79).

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

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

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

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

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

ExpressCard Problems

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

Information Guide.

HECK THE EXPRESSCARD —

ENSURE THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL- PROVIDED EXPRESSCARD —

page 133. Also, for Mobile Broadband (WWAN) ExpressCards, see "Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [WWAN])" on page 93.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN EXPRESSC ARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —

manufacturer.

Ensure that the ExpressCard is properly inserted into the connector.

Double-click the

Contact Dell.

Safely Remove Hardware

See "Contacting Dell" on

Contact the ExpressCard

icon in

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

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

Information Guide.

NSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

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

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL- PROVIDED IEEE 1394 DEVICE — Contact Dell or the IEEE 1394

device manufacturer. See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

Start

button and click

Control Panel

Printers and Other Hardware

Solving Problems 89

Page 90

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY DELL — Contact Dell or the IEEE

1394 device manufacturer. See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

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

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 running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you

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

External Keyboard problems

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

HECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for

damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

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

CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —

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

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

From the Windows desktop, click the

Notepad

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

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

Start

button, point to

Programs→

Accessories

, and then click

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 internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

Start

button, point to

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.

RUN THE KEYBOARD DIAGNOSTICS TESTS —

Diagnostics Dell.

(see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79)

See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell

. If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact

90 Solving Problems

Page 91

Unexpected characters

DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD —

instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed

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

The computer stops responding

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

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

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

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly

END THE PROGRAM —

Press <Crtl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

Click the

Click

Applications

End Task

tab and select the program that is no longer responding.

NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen.

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

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

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —

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

Programs→ Accessories

The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so

, and then click

Program Compatibility

Solving Problems 91

Page 92

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF —

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

If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving

Dell MediaDirect problems

CHECK THE DELL MEDIAD IRECT HELP FILE FOR INFORMATION — Click the ? icon at the bottom of the Dell

MediaDirect screen to access Help.

TO PLAY MOVIES WITH DELL MEDIAD IRECT, YOU MUST HAVE A DVD DRIVE AND THE DELL DVD PLAYER — If

you purchased a DVD drive with your computer, this software should already be installed.

VIDEO QUALITY PROBLEMS — Turn off the Use Hardware Acceleration option. This feature takes

advantage of the special processing in some graphics cards to reduce processor requirements when playing DVDs and certain types of video files.

CANNOT PLAY SOME MEDIA FILES — Because Dell MediaDirect provides access to media files outside the

Windows XP operating system environment, access to licensed content is restricted. Licensed content is digital content that has Digital Rights Management (DRM) applied to it. The Dell MediaDirect environment cannot verify the DRM restrictions, so the licensed files cannot be played. Licensed music and video files have a lock icon next to them. You can access licensed files in the Windows XP operating system environment.

ADJUSTING THE COLOR SETTINGS FOR MOVIES THAT CONTAIN SCENES THAT ARE TOO DARK OR TOO BRIGHT —

Click EagleVision to use a video enhancement technology that detects video content and dynamically adjusts the brightness/contrast/saturation ratios.

NOTICE: You cannot reinstall the Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive. Contact Dell

for assistance. See "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

Memory Problems

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

Information Guide.

F 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 "Memory" on page 114)

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

• Run the Dell Diagnostics

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

(see "Memory" on page 114)

(see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79)

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

(see "Memory" on page 114)

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines

• Run the Dell Diagnostics

(see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79)

(see "Memory" on page 114)

Network Problems

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

Information Guide.

HECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR —

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

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR —

communication exists. Replace the network cable.

Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the

No light indicates that no network

Solving Problems 93

Page 94

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.

Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [WWAN])

NOTE: The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide and the Mobile Broadband ExpressCard user’s guide

are available through the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13. You can also download the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide from support.dell.com.

NOTE: The icon will appear in the notification area if the computer has a Dell WWAN device installed.

Double-click the icon to launch the utility.

CTIVATE THE MOBILE BROADBAND EXPRESSCARD — You must activate the Mobile Broadband

ExpressCard before you can connect to the network. Position the mouse over the icon in the notification area to verify the status of the connection. If the card is not activated, follow the card activation instructions located within the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility. To access the utility, double-click the icon located in the taskbar, at the lower-right corner of your screen. If your ExpressCard is not a Dell-branded card, see the manufacturer’s instructions for your card.

CHECK NETWORK CONNECTION STATUS IN DELL MOBILE BROADBAND CARD UTILITY — Double-click the

icon to launch the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility. Check the status in the main window:

•

No card detected

•

Check your WWAN service

supported services.

— Restart the computer, and launch the

— Contact your cellular service provider to verify your plan coverage and

Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility

again.

Power Problems

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

Information Guide.

HECK THE POWER LIGHT —

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.

NOTE: For information on standby mode, see "Power Management Modes" on page 41.

HARGE THE BATTERY —

Reinstall the battery.

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

Turn on the computer.

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

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

94 Solving Problems

When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power

The battery charge may be depleted.

Page 95

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 "Contacting Dell" on page 133.

CHECK THE BATTERY TEMPERATURE — If the battery temperature is below 0°C (32°F), the computer will

not start up.

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 "Power Management Modes" on page 41.

RESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES —

reinstall the memory modules

If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank,

(see "Memory" on page 114).

Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer

Your computer is designed to use the 65-W AC adapter; you may choose to use the optional 90-W AC adapter for optimum system performance. Use of the 90-W AC adapter may decrease the length of time required to fully recharge your computer battery.

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.

NSURE 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.

Solving Problems 95

Page 96

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

Start

button, click

Control Panel

View installed printers or fax printers

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

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

Click

Properties port(s): port(s):

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER —

setting is setting is

and click the

Ports LPT1 (Printer Port) USB

See the printer documentation for instructions

tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that the

. For a USB printer, ensure that the

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.

HECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION —

information.

CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION —

information.

UNLOCK THE SCANNER —

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —

Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

• See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.

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

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS —

Click the

Click

Start

button, click

Scanners and Cameras

If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting

See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER —

96 Solving Problems

See the scanner documentation for instructions.

Page 97

Sound and Speaker Problems

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 —

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 —

integrated speakers.

REINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER —

No sound from external speakers

ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON —

the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —

of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR —

disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET —

device, such as a lamp.

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE —

for interference.

REINSTALL THE AUDIO DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 100.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79.

Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another

Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your

Press <Fn><End> to disable (mute) or reenable the

See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 100.

See the setup diagram supplied with

Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner

Sound from the speakers is automatically

Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check

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.

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into

the headphone connector (see "audio connectors" on page 22).

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —

of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner

Solving Problems 97

Page 98

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Try adjusting the settings.

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —

and firmly reconnect the cable.

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

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

Shut down the computer.

Disconnect the mouse.

Turn on the computer.

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

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

Start

Mouse

button, click

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for damage,

REINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER —

See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 100.

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.

HECK THE BATTERY —

depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET —

device, such as a lamp.

CHECK THE AC ADAPTER —

that the light is on.

CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET —

strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES —

Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 13.

SWITCH THE VIDEO IMAGE —

switch the video image to the display.

If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be

Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another

Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure

Bypass power protection devices, power

Search for the keyword

standby

in the Windows Help and Support

If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press <Fn><F8> to

98 Solving Problems

Page 99

If the display is difficult to read

ADJUST THE BRIGHTNESS —

MOVE THE EXTERNAL SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR —

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 —

appliances.

ROTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION —

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 "Error Messages" on page 85.

Start

button and then click

Appearance and Themes

Press <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key.

Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other

Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor

Control Panel

Color quality

Display

and

Screen resolution

icon.

If your external speaker

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.

"Contacting Dell" on page 133.

See

Drivers

What Is a Driver?

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

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

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

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

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

Solving Problems 99

Page 100

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

• Upgrade your operating system.

• Reinstall your operating system.

• Connect or install a new device.

Identifying Drivers

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

Click the

Under

Click

In the

Click

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

Start

button and click

Pick a Category

System

System Properties

Device Manager

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

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 "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 100.

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

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

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

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

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

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

100 Solving Problems

Dell PP20L User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Finding Information

About Your Computer

Determining Your Computer’s Configuration

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

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System CD

Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

Switching the Video Image

Setting Display Resolution

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

System Functions

Display Functions

Power Management

Speaker Functions

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

QuickSet Key Combinations

Adjusting Keyboard Settings

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

Charge Gauge

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Power Management Modes

Configuring Power Management Settings

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

Using Multimedia

Playing CDs or DVDs

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Using Dell Media Experience™ and Dell MediaDirect™

If the computer is turned on or in standby mode

If the computer is turned off or in hibernate mode

Dell MediaDirect and Dell Media Experience Help

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video and Standard Audio

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Composite Video and Standard Audio

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Component Video and Standard Audio

Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

Using Cards

ExpressCards

ExpressCard Blanks

Installing an ExpressCard