Dell PP22L User Manual

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Dell™ Vostro™ 1500 Owner’s Manual

Model PP22L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

your computer.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data

and tells you how to avoid the problem.

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

or death.

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Vos t ro , Wi-Fi Catcher, and Dell MediaDirect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel is a registered trademark and Core is a trademark of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, Outlook, Windows XP and Windows Vista are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

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

Model PP22L

November 2007 P/N TT979 Rev. A02

1 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

2 About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Determining Your Computer’s Configuration . . . . . . 21

Front View

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

Left Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Right Side View

Back View

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

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

Bottom View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

3 Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft Windows XP

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Microsoft Windows Vista™

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Power Protection Devices

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . 38

. . . . . 39

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

Contents 3

Surge Protectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Line Conditioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

. . . . . . . . . . 46

4 Using the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Using a Projector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper

Microsoft

Windows Vista™

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

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

Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display

Microsoft Windows XP

Windows Vista

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

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

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Microsoft Windows XP

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

. . . 47

. . . 49

. . . . . . 50

Windows Vista . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

5 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad . . . . 53

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Key Combinations

System Functions

Display Functions

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Power Management

Microsoft

Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations

Adjusting Keyboard Settings

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

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

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

Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . 55

. . . . . . . . . 55

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

4 Contents

Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

6 Using a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft

Charge Gauge

Windows® Battery Meter . . . . . . . 61

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

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

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

Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Conserving Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Power Management Modes

Standby and Sleep Mode

Hibernate Mode

Configuring Power Management Settings

Accessing Power Options Properties

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . 64

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

7 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Playing Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Playing Media Using Dell Travel Remote

. . . . . . . . 69

Contents 5

Copying CD, DVD, and Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) Media . . . 70

How to Copy a CD, DVD, or BD

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

Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media . . . . . . . 71

Helpful Tips

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

Adjusting the Volume

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

Adjusting the Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Using Dell MediaDirect™

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

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video and Standard Audio

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

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

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

. . . . . . . . . 78

Composite Video and Standard Audio . . . . . . . 80

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Component Video and Standard Audio

. . . . 82

. . . . . . 84

Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . 87

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

. . . . . . . 90

8 Using ExpressCards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

ExpressCard Blanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Installing an ExpressCard

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank . . . . . . . . . . . 93

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

9 Using the Memory Card Reader . . . . . . . 95

6 Contents

Memory Card Blanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Installing a Memory Card

Removing a Memory Card or Blank

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

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

10 Setting Up and Using Networks . . . . . . . 97

Connecting a Network or Broadband

Modem Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Setting Up a Network

Windows XP

Windows Vista

Wireless Local Area Network

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

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

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

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

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

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

Checking Your Wireless Network Card . . . . . . 99

Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem

. . . . . . . . . 100

Connecting to a WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)

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

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

. . . . . . . . . 104

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card . . . . 105

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile

Broadband Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

. . . . . . . . . 107

. . . 105

11 Securing Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Passwords

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

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

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

Contents 7

12 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Dell Technical Update Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Dell Diagnostics

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Dell Support Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Dell Support

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

Dell PC TuneUp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Dell PC Checkup

Dell Network Assistant

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

DellConnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Optical drive problems

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

Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . . . . . . . . . 123

Error Messages

ExpressCard Problems

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

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

Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

External Keyboard problems

Unexpected characters

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

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

8 Contents

Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

The computer does not start

. . . . . . . . . . . . 133

The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . 133

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft

A solid blue screen appears

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Windows® operating system . . . . . 134

. . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Dell MediaDirect problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Memory Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Network Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [WWAN])

Power Problems

Printer Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Sound and Speaker Problems

No sound from integrated speakers

No sound from external speakers

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

. . . . . . . . 141

. . . . . . . . . 141

No sound from headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Remote Control Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

Video and Display Problems

If the display is blank

If the display is difficult to read

If only part of the display is readable

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

. . . . . . . . . . 144

. . . . . . . 145

Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

What Is a Driver?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

. . . . . . . . . . 146

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems

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

Contents 9

Restoring your Microsoft Windows Operating System

Restoring Windows Vista

Restoring Windows XP

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

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

13 Adding and Replacing Parts . . . . . . . . . 161

Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Recommended Tools

Turning Off Your Computer

Before Working Inside Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

. . . . . . . 162

Hard Drive

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

Removing the Hard Drive

Replacing the Hard Drive

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

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

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Removing the Optical Drive

Hinge Cover

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

Removing the Hinge Cover

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

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

Replacing the Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Keyboard

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Removing the Keyboard

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

Replacing the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

Removing the DIMM A Memory Module

Replacing the DIMM A Memory Module

Removing the DIMM B Memory Module

Replacing the DIMM B Memory Module

Subscriber Identity Module

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

. . . . . . 172

. . . . . 173

. . . . . . 175

. . . . . 176

10 Contents

Wireless Mini-Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

Removing a WLAN Card

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

Replacing a WLAN Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Removing a Mobile Broadband or WWAN Card

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182

Replacing a WWAN Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185

Removing a WPAN Card

Replacing a WPAN Card

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

Flash Cache Module

Removing the FCM

Replacing the FCM

Internal Card With Bluetooth

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

Wireless

Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

Removing the Card

Coin-Cell Battery

Removing the Coin-Cell Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190

. . . . . . . . . . 190

14 Dell™ QuickSet Features . . . . . . . . . . . 193

15 Traveling With Your Computer . . . . . . . 195

Identifying Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

Packing the Computer

Travel Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

Traveling by Air

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

Contents 11

16 Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

Technical Support and Customer Service

DellConnect

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

AutoTech Service

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

Automated Order-Status Service

. . . . . 198

. . . . . . . . . 199

Problems With Your Order

Product Information

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit . . . . . 200

Before You Call

Contacting Dell

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203

17 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205

18 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215

Using the System Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . 215

Viewing the System Setup Screen

System Setup Screen

Commonly Used Options

Cleaning Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218

Computer, Keyboard, and Display

Touch Pad

Mouse

Media

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216

. . . . . . . . . 216

. . . . . . . . . 218

12 Contents

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . 220

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221

Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221

FCC Notice (U.S. Only)

FCC Class B

Macrovision Product Notice

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243

Contents 13

14 Contents

Finding Information

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

features 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

•Device documentation

• Notebook System Software (NSS)

• Warranty information

•Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

•Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Drivers and Utilities Media

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the Drivers and Utilities media to reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 146) or run the Dell Support 3 utility (see "Dell Support" on page 118).

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

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates

can be found at support.dell.com.

Dell™ Product Information Guide

Finding Information 15

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

Setup Diagram

• How to remove and replace parts

• Specifications

• How to configure system settings

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

•Microsoft

Windows® Product Key

Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Vista™ Help and Support Center

Click

Start→

Help and Support→ Dell User and System Guides→ System Guides

Click the

User’s Guide

for your

computer.

Service Tag and Microsoft Windows Product Key

These labels are located on your computer.

• Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use

support.dell.com

or contact support.

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

NOTE: As an increased security measure,

the newly designed Microsoft Windows license label incorporates a "security portal," which looks like a missing portion of the label, to discourage removal of the label.

16 Finding Information

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

• Community — Online discussion with

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business

segment to view the appropriate support site.

other Dell customers

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

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

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

• Dell Technical Update Service — Proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer

• 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 on your computer, you should also reinstall the NSS utility. NSS automatically detects your computer and operating system, and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration, providing 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.

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

country/region, and then click

& Downloads

Enter your Service Tag or product model, and then click

Select your operating system and language, and then click

Downloads Search

Notebook System Software

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface

may vary depending on your selections.

, select your

Find

, or under

Downloads

, search for the keyword

Drivers

Finding Information 17

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to use Microsoft Windows XP or Windows Vista™

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

Windows Help and Support

Microsoft Windows XP:

Click the

and Support

Either select one of the topics listed, or type a word or phrase that describes your problem into the the arrow icon, and then click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Microsoft Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button

, and then click

Search Help

that describes your problem, and then press <Enter> or click the magnifying glass.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

• Information on network activity, the Power Management Wizard, hotkeys, and other items controlled by Dell QuickSet.

Dell QuickSet Help

To view Dell QuickSet Help, right-click the Dell QuickSet icon in the Windows notification area.

For more information on Dell QuickSet, see "Dell™ QuickSet Features" on page 193.

Start

button and click

Help and Support

, type a word or phrase

Help

box, click

18 Finding Information

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to reinstall my operating system

Operating System Media

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

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

• Dell PC Restore — Dell PC Restore returns your computer to its original operating state. Dell PC Restore may not ship with your computer.

• Operating System Installation Media — If you received operating system media with your computer, you can use it to restore your operating system.

For more information, see "Restoring your Microsoft Windows Operating System" on page 150.

After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities media to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

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

NOTE: The color of your operating system

installation media varies according to the operating system you ordered.

Finding Information 19

20 Finding Information

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 "Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Vista™ Help and Support Center" on page 16.

Under

Pick a Task

and diagnose problems.

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

, select

Hardware

About Your Computer 21

Front View

1 camera indicator (optional) 2 camera (optional)

3 display latch 4 display

5 power button 6 keyboard

7 device status lights 8 touch pad

9 consumer IR sensor 10 media control buttons

11 touch pad buttons 12 Dell™ MediaDirect™ button

13 keyboard status lights 14 digital array microphones

22 About Your Computer

CAMERA INDICATOR — Indicates that the camera is on. Based on configuration

selections you made when ordering your computer, your computer may not include a camera.

CAMERA — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. Based on

configuration selections you made when ordering your computer, your computer may not include a camera.

DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed.

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

page 47.

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

management mode (see "Power Management Modes" on page 63).

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

Windows® operating system shutdown rather than by pressing the power button.

If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off completely (may take several seconds).

KEYBOARD — For more information about the keyboard, see "Using the Keyboard and

Touch Pad" on page 53.

About Your Computer 23

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

The blue lights located to the right of the keyboard indicate the following:

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

Hard-drive activity light – 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.

Battery status light – Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

WiFi status light – Turns on when wireless networking is enabled. To enable or disable wireless networking, use the wireless switch (see "wireless switch" on page 27).

24 About Your Computer

Bluetooth

status light – Turns on when an internal card with Bluetooth

wireless technology is enabled.

NOTE: The internal card with Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional

feature. 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 then click Disable Bluetooth Radio.

To quickly enable or disable all wireless devices, use the wireless switch (see "wireless switch" on page 27).

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

– Solid blue: The battery is charging. – Flashing blue: The battery is almost fully charged. – Off: The battery is adequately 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 amber: The battery charge is low.

amber

–Solid

TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse (see "Touch Pad" on page 55).

TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Use these buttons much like the buttons on a mouse when

you use the touch pad to move the cursor on the display (see "Touch Pad" on page 55).

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

: The battery charge is critically low.

Mute the sound. Play the previous track.

Turn the volume down. Play the next track.

About Your Computer 25

Turn the volume up. Stop.

Play or pause.

DELL™ MEDIADIRECT™ BUTTON — Press the Dell MediaDirect button to launch Dell MediaDirect (see "Using Dell MediaDirect™" on page 74).

KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS

The blue lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when the uppercase letter (caps lock) function is enabled.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

DIGITAL ARRAY MICROPHONES — Built-in microphone for conferencing and chat.

26 About Your Computer

Left Side View

1 2563 4

1 security cable slot 2 wireless switch

3 Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator

light

5 audio connectors 6 ExpressCard slot

SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device

to the computer (see "Security Cable Lock" on page 109).

WIRELESS SWITCH — When enabled through Dell QuickSet, this switch can scan for

a wireless local area network (WLAN) in your vicinity. You can also use it to rapidly turn off or on any wireless devices such as WLAN cards and internal cards with Bluetooth wireless technology (see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 107).

4 air vents

About Your Computer 27

1 2 3 4

1 off Disables wireless devices.

2 on Enables wireless devices.

3 momentary Scans for WLAN networks (see "Dell Wi-Fi

Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 107).

4 Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network

Locator light

• Flashing green: Searching for networks

• Solid green: Strong network found

• Solid yellow: Weak network found

•Flashing yellow: Error

• Off: No signal found

NOTE: The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator light

appears only when the computer is turned off and the wireless switch is configured in the system setup program (BIOS) to control WiFi network connections.

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

which prevents the computer from overheating. The computer turns the fan on when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.

28 About Your Computer

AUDIO CONNECTORS

Attach headphones to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

EXPRESSC ARD SLOT — Supports one ExpressCard. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see "Using ExpressCards" on page 91.

About Your Computer 29

Right Side View

4 6 7

1 battery status light 2 hard-drive activity light

3 power light 4 optical drive

5 eject button 6 8-in-1 memory card reader

7 IEEE 1394 connector 8 video connector (VGA)

9 network connector (RJ-45) 10 USB connectors (2)

OPTICAL DRIVE — For more information about the optical drive, see "Using

Multimedia" on page 67.

EJECT BUTTON — Press the eject button to open the optical drive.

IN-1 MEMORY CARD READER — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and

share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. The 8-in-1 memory card reader reads the following digital memory cards:

• Secure Digital (SD) memory card

•SDIO card

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

•Memory Stick

•Memory Stick PRO

•xD-Picture Card

• Hi Speed-SD

•Hi Density-SD

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

910

30 About Your Computer

VIDEO CONNECTOR

Connects video devices, such as a monitor.

NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)

Connects the computer to a network. The two lights next to the connector indicate status and activity for wired network connections.

For information on using the network adapter, see the device user’s guide supplied with your computer.

USB CONNECTORS

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

Back View

1 2

1 S-video TV-out connector 2 USB connectors (2)

3 AC adapter connector 4 battery

5 modem connector (RJ-11)

About Your Computer 31

S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR

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

USB CONNECTORS

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

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 on or off.

NOTE: If your computer has the discrete video configuration, you must use the

90 W AC adapter that is shipped with your computer. Using the incorrect AC adapter will prevent optimal system performance and produce a BIOS warning.

NOTE: Ensure the power cord is firmly attached to the AC adapter. A green LED

light on the AC adapter indicates a proper connection.

32 About Your Computer

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.

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

Connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

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

About Your Computer 33

Bottom View

1 left speaker 2 memory module/coin-cell battery

3 consumer IR sensor 4 right speaker

5 wireless Mini-Card cover 6 battery

7 battery charge/health gauge 8 battery release latches (2)

9 fan 10 hard drive

2 34

cover

LEFT SPEAKER — To adjust the volume of the integrated speaker, press the volume

control buttons or the mute button.

MEMORY MODULE/COIN- CELL BATTERY COVER — Covers the DIMM B memory

module and the coin-cell battery. For additional information, see "Adding and Replacing Parts" on page 161.

34 About Your Computer

CONSUMER IR SENSOR — Receives the signal from the Dell travel remote controller

for basic multimedia navigation control.

RIGHT SPEAKER — To adjust the volume of the integrated speaker, press the volume

control buttons or the mute button.

WIRELESS MINI-CARD COVER — Covers wireless Mini-Cards (WLAN, WWAN, or

WPAN), or a Flash Cache Module (FCM) (see "Wireless Mini-Cards" on page 179 and "Flash Cache Module" on page 187).

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

connecting the computer to an electrical outlet (see "Using a Battery" on page 59).

BATTERY CHARGE/HEALTH GAUGE — Provides information on the battery charge (see

"Checking the Battery Charge" on page 60).

BATTERY RELEASE LATCHES — Releases the battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on

page 65 for instructions).

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

the computer from overheating. The computer turns the fan on when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

About Your Computer 35

36 About Your Computer

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

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

• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line or cellular telephone service. 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.

• Satellite modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through a satellite television system.

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

• Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN) or Mobile Broadband technology provides a connection to the Internet using cellular technology at broadband rates.

• Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) connections use high-frequency radio waves to communicate. Typically, a wireless router is connected to the broadband cable or DSL modem that broadcasts the Internet signal to your computer.

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

Setting Up Your Computer 37

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, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

NOTE: If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem,

and Internet Problems" on page 123. 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.

Windows XP

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

Click

Start→

The

New Connection Wizard

Click

Connect to the Internet

Internet Explorer

appears.

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

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

list of Internet service providers (ISPs)

Choose from a

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

• If you have a CD, click

Click

If you selected

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

Set up my connection manually

, continue to step 6.

Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

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

Click the appropriate option under

Internet?

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

, and then click

How do you want to connect to the

38 Setting Up Your Computer

Windows Vista

NOTE: Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, the Connect to

the Internet wizard can help you get one.

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

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

The

Click either

Network and Internet,

Connect to the Internet

Broadband (PPPoE)

click

Connect to the Internet

window appears.

Dial-up

, depending on how you want

Control Panel

to connect:

•Choose

Broadband

if you will use a DSL, satellite modem, cable TV

modem, or Bluetooth wireless technology connection.

•Chose

NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose

or contact your ISP. Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

Dial-up

if you will use a dial-up modem or ISDN.

Transferring Information to a New Computer

You can use your operating system "wizards" to help you transfer files and other data from one computer to another—for example, from an old computer to a new computer. For instructions, see the following section that corresponds to the operating system that your computer is running.

Microsoft Windows XP

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

• E-mail messages

• Toolbar settings

•Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

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

Setting Up Your Computer 39

NOTE: You can transfer information from an old computer to a new computer by

directly connecting a serial cable to the input/output (I/O) ports of the two computers. To transfer data over a serial connection, you must access the Network Connections utility from the Control Panel and perform additional configuration steps, such as setting up an advanced connection and designating the host computer and the guest computer.

For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, see Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #305621, titled How to Set Up a Direct Cable Connection Between Two Computers in Windows XP. This information may not be available in certain countries.

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

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

NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System media. This media is optional

and may not be included with certain computers.

To prepare a new computer for the file transfer:

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

When the click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

from the Windows XP CD

When the

Now go to your old computer

source computer. Do

not

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

→ Next

screen appears, go to your old or

click

at this time.

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I will use the wizard

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

additional tasks

Under

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

Which computer is this?

, click

screen, click

Operating System

screen, click

media.

Perform

Transfer files and settings→ Next

Old Computer→

40 Setting Up Your Computer

On the

Select a transfer method

screen, click the transfer method you

prefer.

On the transfer and click

After the information has been copied, the

Phase

Click

What do you want to transfer?

screen appears.

Finish

screen, select the items you want to

Completing the Collection

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the chose for transferring your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

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

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

Finished

screen

appears.

Click

Finished

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

and restart the new computer.

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

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

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

When the click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

Wizard Disk in the following drive

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

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

→

Next.

Setting Up Your Computer 41

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I want to create a

When the disk creation completes and the

computer

Go to the old computer.

message appears,

do not

Now go to your old

click

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click

Start→

In the the appropriate removable media) and click

On the

Run

Open

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

welcome screen, click

Old Computer→

prefer.

On the transfer and click

After the information has been copied, the

Phase

Click

What do you want to transfer?

screen appears.

Finish

screen, select the items you want to

Completing the Collection

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the chose for transferring your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

. Follow the

instructions on the screen.

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

fastwiz

(on

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

Finished

appears.

Click

Finished

NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search support.dell.com for

document #154781 (What Are The Different Methods To Transfer Files From My Old

Computer To My New Dell™ Computer Using the Microsoft Operating System?).

and restart the new computer.

Windows® XP

42 Setting Up Your Computer

screen

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

certain countries.

Microsoft Windows Vista™

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click

and settings

In the

Click

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

→ Start Windows Easy Transfer.

User Account Control

Start a new transfer

dialog box, click

Continue a transfer in progress

Continue

Tran sf er fi le s

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

Setting Up Your Computer 43

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.

1 USB connector on computer 2 USB connector on printer

3 USB printer cable

Turn on the printer, and then turn on the computer.

If the

Add New Hardware Wizard

Depending on your computer’s operating system, a printer wizard may be

window appears, click

Cancel

available to help you install the printer driver:

If your computer is running the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system

and the

Add New Hardware Wizard

window appears, click

44 Setting Up Your Computer

Cancel

If your computer is running the Windows Vista™ operating system

Windows Vista Start button , and click start the Add Printer Wizard.Click

Add a printer

Network→ Add a printer

to start the Add Printer

, click the

Wizard.

NOTE: To install the printer driver, see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on

page 146 and the documentation that came with your printer.

Click

Add a local printer

Follow the instructions in the Add Printer Wizard.

Add a network, wireless, or Bluetooth printer

Power Protection Devices

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

•Surge protectors

• Line conditioners

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Surge Protectors

Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help 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.

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 connector 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 connector during electrical storms.

Setting Up Your Computer 45

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).

46 Setting Up Your Computer

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the display brightness to the lowest comfortable level.

• 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).

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.

Using a Projector

When you start the computer with an external device attached (such as an external monitor or projector) 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.

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper

NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image

may appear blurry or text may be hard to read if you change the resolution to one not supported by your computer and display. Before you change any of the display settings, make a note of the current settings so you can change back to the previous settings if you need to.

Using the Display 47

and images to appear larger and can benefit people with vision impairments. To display a program at a specific resolution, both the video card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.

NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the

best performance with your Dell-installed operating system.

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

To set the display resolution and refresh rate for your display, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Click

Start→

Under

Control Panel icon

In the

Try different settings for

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

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

, click

Display Properties

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Display

window, click the

Color quality

Settings

and

Screen resolution

or pick a

tab.

Windows Vista™

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

window, under

, click

Resolution

the left or right to decrease/increase the screen resolution.

Click

How do I get the best display?

for further instructions.

If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode. In pan mode, the entire video image cannot be displayed at one time, and the taskbar that usually appears at the bottom of the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the parts of the video image that are not visible, you can use the touch pad or track stick to move (or pan) the image up, down, left, and right.

48 Using the Display

Control Panel

Adjust screen resolution

, slide the slide bar to

NOTICE: You can damage an external monitor by using an unsupported refresh

rate. Before adjusting the refresh rate on an external monitor, see the user’s guide for the monitor.

Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display

You can attach an external monitor or projector to your computer and use it as an extension of your display (known as dual independent display or extended desktop mode). This mode allows you to use both screens independently and drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

To use extended desktop mode, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft Windows XP

Connect the external monitor, TV, or projector to the computer.

Click

Start→

Under

Control Panel icon

In the

NOTE: If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display

supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values. For more information, see your operating system documentation.

Click the monitor 2 icon, click the box, and then click

Change

Apply

If prompted to restart the computer, click

without restarting

If prompted, click OK to resize your desktop.

If prompted, click

Click OK to close the

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display Properties

Screen Area

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

, click

Apply

to the appropriate sizes for both displays and click

and click OK.

Ye s

to keep the settings.

Display Properties

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Display

window, click the

Settings

Extend my Windows desktop...

Apply the new color setting

window.

or pick a

tab.

check

Using the Display 49

To disable dual independent display mode:

Click the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the

this monitor

If necessary, press <Fn><F8> to bring the screen image back to the computer display.

Settings

tab in the

option, and then click

Display Properties

Extend my Windows desktop onto

Apply

window.

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

the desktop onto this monitor

Click OK to close the

To disable extended desktop mode:

In the

Display Settings

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the

monitor

option, and then click

window, click the monitor 2 icon, click the

Display Settings

window, click the

check box, and then click

Apply

, click

window.

Extend the desktop onto this

Settings

Control Panel

Adjust screen resolution

Apply

tab.

Extend

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image

You can enhance the legibility of text and change the appearance of images on the screen by adjusting display resolution. As you increase resolution, items appear smaller on the screen. In contrast, lower resolution causes text and images to appear larger and can benefit people with vision impairments. To display a program at a specific resolution, both the video card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.

NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the

best performance with your Dell-installed operating system.

50 Using the Display

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

To set the display resolution and refresh rate for your display, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft Windows XP

Click

Start→

Under

Control Panel icon

In the

Try different settings for

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

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task...

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

, click

Display Properties

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Display

window, click the

Color quality

Settings

and

Screen resolution

or pick a

tab.

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

window, under

the left or right to decrease or increase the screen resolution.

NOTE: For additional instructions, click How do I get the best display?

and click

, click

Resolution

Control Panel

Adjust screen resolution

, move the slide bar to

Using the Display 51

52 Using the Display

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

numeric keypad

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

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

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

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 53

Key Combinations

System Functions

<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Tas k Ma na ge r window.

Display Functions

<Fn><F8> Displays icons representing all currently

available display options (display only, external monitor or projector only, both display and projector, etc). 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 Decreases brightness on the integrated display

only (not on an external monitor).

Battery

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

(see "Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter" on page 60).

Power Management

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

reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the

Advanced tab in the Power Opti ons Properties window (see "Power Management

Modes" on page 63).

54 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Windows logo key and <m> Minimizes all open windows.

Windows logo key and <Shift><m>

Windows logo key and <e> Starts 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> Opens the System Properties dialog box.

Restores all minimized windows. This key combination functions as a toggle to restore minimized windows following the use of the Windows logo key and <m> combination.

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

Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations

If Dell 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 Dell QuickSet key combinations, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification area, and then click Help.

Adjusting Keyboard Settings

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate:

Click

Start, and then click

Click

Hardware and Sound

Click

Keyboard

Control Panel

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.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 55

1 touch pad 2 silk screen with scroll zones

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

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

• To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and tap 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.

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

Click

Start, and then click

Click

Hardware and Sound

56 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Control Panel

Click

Mouse

In the

Mouse Properties

•Click the

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Device Select

Tou c h Pa d

window:

tab to disable the touch pad.

tab to adjust touch pad settings.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 57

58 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

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

Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer.

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

NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to

connect your new computer to an electrical outlet the first time you use the computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, place the mouse cursor over the battery icon in the Windows notification area.

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

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

NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet

when writing to media.

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, memory cards, or USB devices.

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

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode (see "Power Management Modes" on page 63 for information about accessing Windows Power Options Properties or Dell QuickSet, which you can use to configure power management settings).

Using a Battery 59

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

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

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

CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery

no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or environmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery (see "Battery Disposal" in the

Product Information Guide

CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn.

Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.

Checking the Battery Charge

You can check the battery charge on your computer using any one of the following methods:

• Dell QuickSet Battery Meter

• Microsoft Windows battery meter icon located in the notification area

• Battery charge/health gauge located on the battery

• Low-battery warning pop-up window

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

To view the

• Double-click the Dell QuickSet icon in the taskbar, and then click

• Press <Fn><F3>.

The Battery Meter displays the status, battery health, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer.

60 Using a Battery

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter:

Meter

Battery

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

Microsoft® Windows® Battery Meter

The battery meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the battery meter, double-click the icon in the notification area.

Charge Gauge

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

• Battery charge (check by

• Battery health (check by

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. Therefore, 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 indicator lights. Each light represents approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if the battery has 80 percent of its charge remaining, four of the lights are on. If no lights are on, the battery has no charge.

pressing

and

releasing

holding

the status button)

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, and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification area, and then 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 to illuminate the health indicator lights. Each light represents incremental degradation. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of

Using a Battery 61

the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery (see "Battery" on page 210 for more information about the battery operating time).

Low-Battery Warning

NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a

low-battery warning, then connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power, Sleep state begins automatically.

A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer enters Standby or Sleep mode when the battery charge is at a critically low level.

You can change the settings for the battery alarms in Dell QuickSet or the Power Options window (see "Power Management Modes" on page 63).

Conserving Battery Power

To conserve battery power on your portable computer, do any of the following:

• Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible; 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 63.

• Configure the power management settings using either Dell QuickSet or Microsoft Windows Power Options to optimize your computer’s power usage (see "Power Management Modes" on page 63).

• Use the Power Management Wizard or the Sleep power state when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time (see "Standby and Sleep Mode" on page 63).

Power Options Properties

62 Using a Battery

Power Management Modes

Standby and Sleep Mode

Standby mode (sleep mode in Microsoft Windows Vista™) 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 or sleep mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby or sleep mode.

NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby or sleep

mode, it may lose data.

To enter standby mode in Windows XP, click Start→ Turn off computer→ Stand by.

To enter sleep mode in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button

, and then click Sleep.

Depending on how you set the power management options in the Power Options Properties window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, you may also use one of the following methods:

• Press the power button.

• Close the display.

• Press <Fn><Esc>.

To exit standby or sleep mode, press the power button or open the display, depending on how you set the power management options. You cannot make the computer exit standby or sleep 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.

Using a Battery 63

To enter hibernate mode in Windows XP, click the Start button, click Tur n of f computer, press and hold <Shift>, and then click Hibernate.

To enter hibernate mode in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Hibernate.

Depending on how you set the power management options in the Power Options Properties window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, you may also use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode:

• 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 93), 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.

Configuring Power Management Settings

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

• For information on how to use the Dell QuickSet Power Management wizard, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification area, click and then select

Power Management

Help

Accessing Power Options Properties

Windows XP

Click Start→ Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance, and then click Power Options

64 Using a Battery

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , click Control Panel, click System and Maintenance, and then click Power Options.

Charging the Battery

NOTE: Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the

battery in the computer for 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 battery light flashes alternately blue and amber. 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 137.

Replacing the Battery

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

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 the 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.

Using a Battery 65

NOTICE: If you choose to replace the battery with the computer in standby or sleep

mode, you have up to 1 minute to complete the battery replacement before the computer shuts down and loses any unsaved data.

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.

Turn the computer over.

Slide and click the battery release latches to keep them open.

Slide the battery out of the bay.

1 battery 2 battery release latches (2)

To replace the battery, slide the battery into the bay until it latches into place.

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 65) before you use it.

66 Using a Battery

Using Multimedia

Playing Media

NOTICE: Do not press down on the optical drive 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 media.

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

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

Push the tray back into the drive.

To format media for storing or copying data, see the media software that came with your computer.

NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when copying media.

Using Multimedia 67

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

Play

Move backward within the current track

Pau se

Move forward within the current track

Stop

Go to the previous track

Eject

Go to the next track

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:

Stop

Restart the current chapter

Play

Fast forward

Pau se

Fast reverse

Advance a single frame while in pause mode

Go to the next title or chapter

Continuously play the current title or chapter

Go to the previous title or chapter

Eject

For more information on playing media, click Help on the media player (if available).

68 Using Multimedia

Playing Media Using Dell Travel Remote

The Dell Travel Remote is designed to control Dell Media Direct and Windows Vista™ Media Center. It can work only with specified computers. For more details, go to the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

To play media using Dell Travel Remote:

Install the CR2106 coin-cell battery in your remote control.

Launch Windows Vista Media Center, and then click

Use the remote control buttons to play media.

Start → Programs

1 Infrared Transmitter 2 Page Up

3 Page Down 4 Arrow Up

5 OK/Enter/Select 6 Arrow Right

Using Multimedia 69

7 Arrow Down 8 Play/Pause

9 Forward 10 Skip Forward

11 Stop 12 Skip Back

13 Reverse 14 Back

15 Arrow Left 16 Mute

17 Volume Down 18 Volume Up

Copying CD, DVD, and Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) Media

This section applies only to computers that have a DVD+/-RW drive or a BD-RE drive.

NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when copying media.

NOTE: The types of optical drives offered by Dell may vary by country.

The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD, DVD, or BD using Roxio Creator. You can also use Roxio Creator 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, and then press <F1>.

The DVD drives and BD drives installed in Dell computers do not support HD-DVD media. For a list of supported media formats, see "Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media" on page 71.

How to Copy a CD, DVD, or BD

NOTE: BD media can only be copied to other BD media.

NOTE: Copying a BD-R to BD-RE will not produce an exact copy.

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs and BDs have copyright protection and cannot be

copied using Roxio Creator.

Click

Start

Under the

70 Using Multimedia

→ All Programs→ Roxio Creator→

Copy

tab, click

Copy Disc

Projects→

Copy

To copy the CD, DVD, or BD:

•

If you have one optical drive

ensure that the settings are correct, and then click the

, insert the source disc into the drive,

Copy Disc

button to continue. The computer reads your source disc and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

When prompted, insert a blank disc into the drive and click

•

If you have two optical drives

inserted your source disc and click the

, select the drive into which you have

Copy Disc

button to continue.

The computer copies the data from the source disc to the blank disc.

Once you have finished copying the source disc, the disc that you have created automatically ejects.

Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media

DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media. BD-writable drives can write to CD, DVD and BD recording media.

Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use a blank CD-RW if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.

Blank DVD+/-R or BD-R media can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R or BD-R, 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+/-RW or BD-RE media if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.

CD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

CD-RW Yes Yes Yes

Using Multimedia 71

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

CD-RW Yes Yes Yes

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D+ RW Yes Yes Ye s

DV D- RW Ye s Yes Yes

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Yes Yes No

BD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

CD-RW Yes Yes Yes

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D+ RW Yes Yes Ye s

DV D- RW Ye s Yes Yes

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Yes Yes No

BD-R Yes Yes No

BD-RE Yes Yes Yes

Helpful Tips

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

• 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 the blank space to finalize the recording.

72 Using Multimedia

Roxio Creator

and open a Creator project.

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

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

• 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.

• You cannot create audio DVDs with

• 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.

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

• See the Roxio website at website at

blu-raydisc.com

www.sonic.com

for additional information.

Roxio Creator

or the Blu-ray Disc™ Association

Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the media playing.

Right-click the volume icon in the notification area.

Click

Open Volume Mixer

Click and drag the bar to slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.

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

The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either click the QuickSet icon in the notification area 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.

Using Multimedia 73

Adjusting the Picture

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

Click

Start

Under

Personalization

Display Settings

In the drop-down menu under

Click OK.

→ Control Panel→ Appearance and Personalization

, click

Adjust screen resolution

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

Color quality

, click

Medium (16 bit)

Using Dell MediaDirect™

Dell MediaDirect is an instant-on multimedia playback mode for digital media. Press the Dell MediaDirect button, located on the hinge cover, to launch Dell MediaDirect. When your computer is turned off or in Sleep state, you can press the Dell MediaDirect button to start the computer and automatically launch the Dell MediaDirect application.

1 Dell MediaDirect button

74 Using Multimedia

NOTE: You cannot reinstall Dell MediaDirect if you voluntarily reformat the hard

drive. You need the installation software to reinstall Dell MediaDirect. Contact Dell for assistance (see "Contacting Dell" on page 203).

For more information on using Dell MediaDirect, use the Help menu in the Dell MediaDirect application.

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 cable

Using Multimedia 75

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

3 S/PDIF digital audio connector 4 composite video-output connector

5 S-video connector

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

3 S/PDIF digital audio connector 4 Pr (red) component video-output

connector

5 Pb (blue) component video-output

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:

• S-video and standard audio

• Composite video and standard audio

• Component-out video and standard audio

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

which method of connection you should use.

76 Using Multimedia

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 90 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 90.

S-Video and Standard Audio

1 audio connector 2 S-video TV-out connector

1 standard S-video cable 2 standard audio cable

Using Multimedia 77

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

NOTE: If your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio, 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).

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

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

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

78 Using Multimedia

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.

1 2

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.

Using Multimedia 79

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

Composite Video and Standard Audio

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

3 composite video adapter

80 Using Multimedia

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 videooutput 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 videoinput connector on the TV.

Using Multimedia 81

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

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

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

82 Using Multimedia

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 videoinput connector on the TV.

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

Using Multimedia 83

1 2

1 composite 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 90 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

84 Using Multimedia

1 component video adapter 2 component video adapter

3 standard audio cable

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.

Using Multimedia 85

1 component video adapter 2 component video adapter

Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable into the component video-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 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 90 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

86 Using Multimedia

Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

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

Using Multimedia 87

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

88 Using Multimedia

1 component video adapter 2 component video-output connectors

3 component video cable

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

into the component video-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 90 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

Using Multimedia 89

Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio

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

Click the

Click

Click OK.

Options

Advanced

menu and then click

S/PDIF Interface

Advanced Controls

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the

computer before you enable the display settings.

Click

Start

, click

Personalization

Under

Personalization

The

Display Properties

Click

Advanced

Click the tab for your video card.

NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see

Windows Help and Support. To access Help and Support, click Start and Support. Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view 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.

Control Panel

, and then click

, click

Adjust Screen Resolution

window appears.

Appearance and

→

Help

90 Using Multimedia

Using ExpressCards

ExpressCards provide additional memory, wired and wireless communications, multimedia and security features. For example, you can add an ExpressCard to make wireless wide area network (WWAN) connectivity available on your computer.

ExpressCards support two form factors:

• ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide)

• ExpressCard/54 (54 mm wide in an L-shape with a 34-mm connector)

The 34-mm card fits into both the 34-mm and 54-mm card slots. The 54-mm card only fits into a 54-mm card slot.

See "Specifications" on page 205 for information on supported ExpressCards.

NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.

1 ExpressCard/34 2 ExpressCard/54

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.

Using ExpressCards 91

Remove the blank before installing an ExpressCard. To remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 93.

Installing an ExpressCard

You can install an ExpressCard 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

To install an ExpressCard:

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.

Product Information Guide

1 2

1 slot 2 ExpressCard

92 Using ExpressCards

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 media 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

Press the release latch and remove the card or blank. For some release 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.

Product Information Guide

1 release latch

Using ExpressCards 93

94 Using ExpressCards

Using the Memory Card Reader

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

NOTE: A memory card is not a bootable device.

The 8-in-1 memory card reader reads the following memory cards:

• Secure Digital (SD)

•SDIO

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

•Memory Stick

•Memory Stick PRO

•xD-Picture Card

• Hi Speed-SD

• Hi Density-SD

Memory Card Blanks

Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the 8-in-1 memory card reader. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no memory card is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer.

Remove the blank before installing a memory card. To remove the blank, see "Removing a Memory Card or Blank" on page 96.

Installing a Memory Card

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

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.

Using the Memory Card Reader 95

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

safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide

To install a 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.

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

Removing a Memory Card or Blank

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

safety instructions in the

NOTICE: Use the memory card configuration utility (click the icon in the

notification area) 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.

Product Information Guide

Press the card into the slot to release it from the card reader. When it is partially ejected, remove the card.

96 Using the Memory Card Reader

Setting Up and Using Networks

A computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer, or a network. For example, with a network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer, access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or access the Internet. You can set up a local area network (LAN) using a network or broadband modem cable or set up a wireless LAN (WLAN).

The Microsoft systems provide wizards to help guide you through the process of networking computers. For more information about Networking, see the Windows Help and Support Center (see "Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Vista™ Help and Support Center" on page 16).

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

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

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

Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista™ operating

NOTE: Insert the cable connector until it clicks into place, and then gently

pull on 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.

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

Setting Up and Using Networks 97

Setting Up a Network

Windows XP

Click

Start→

Setup Wizard

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 in the wizard.

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click

Set up a connection or network

Select an option under

Click

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications→

→

Next→ Checklist for creating a network

Choose a connection option

, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

Connect To→

Network

98 Setting Up and Using Networks

Wireless Local Area Network

A wireless local area network (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 Internet, or 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 a 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

• The order confirmation for your computer

Start

button and the

Connect To

option

Start Button and Connect To Option

In Microsoft Windows XP, click Start→ Connect To→ Show all connections.

NOTE: If your computer is set to the Classic Start menu option, click Start→

Settings

→

Network Connections to view your network connections.

In Microsoft Windows Vista, click → Connect To→ View network computers and devices.

Setting Up and Using Networks 99

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

The

Wireless Network Connection

Properties

Wireless Network Connection Properties

window appears. The

wireless network card’s name and model number are listed on the

General

The Order Confirmation for Your Computer

tab.

NOTE: If Wireless Network Connection does not appear, you may not have a

wireless network card.

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 Using 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 "Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable" on page 97).

Install any software required for your wireless router. Your wireless router may have been shipped with installation media. Installation media usually contains installation and troubleshooting information. Install the required software according to the instructions provided by the router manufacturer.

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

Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.

Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem.

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

100 Setting Up and Using Networks

Dell PP22L User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Dell™ Vostro™ 1500 Owner’s Manual

Contents

Finding Information

Drivers and Utilities Media

Dell™ Product Information Guide

Setup Diagram

Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Vista™ Help and Support Center

Service Tag and Microsoft Windows Product Key

Windows Help and Support

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Dell QuickSet Help

Operating System Media

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

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.

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

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

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

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

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft Windows XP

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

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

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

Go to the old computer.

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Microsoft Windows Vista™

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

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.

Turn on the printer, and then turn on the computer.

Follow the instructions in the Add Printer Wizard.

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

Using a Projector

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Windows Vista™

Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display

Microsoft Windows XP

Windows Vista

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Microsoft Windows XP

Windows Vista

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

System Functions

Display Functions

Battery

Power Management

Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations

Adjusting Keyboard Settings

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

Using a Battery

Battery Performance