Dell PP26L User Manual

Download

Page 1

Dell™ Inspiron™ 1420

Owner’s Manual

Model PP26L

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Page 2

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

your computer.

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

and tells you how to avoid the problem.

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

or death.

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, W i-F i Catcher , and Dell MediaDir ect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Celeron, and Core are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks and Windows Vista is a trademark 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.

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 PP26L

June 2007 P/N WM391 Rev. A01

Page 3

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

1 About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

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

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

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

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

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

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

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

2 Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer . . . . . 35

Windows Easy Transfer

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . 34

Contents 3

Page 4

Power Protection Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . 38

3 Using the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Switching the Video Image From Your Computer Display To a Projector

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

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

. . . . . . 40

4 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad . . . . 41

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

Key Combinations

System Functions

Display Functions

Battery

Power Management

Microsoft

Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations

Adjusting Keyboard Settings

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

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

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

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

Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . 42

. . . . . . . . . 43

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

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

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

4 Contents

Page 5

5 Using a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft

Charge Gauge

Windows® Battery Meter . . . . . . . 47

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

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Configuring Power Management Settings

Using the Sleep Power State

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

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

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

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

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

. . . . . 48

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

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

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

6 Using the Optional Camera . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Accessing the Camera’s Help File . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings

Creating a Picture or a Video

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

. . . . . . . . 52

7 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Playing Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Playing Media Using Dell Express Card Remote Control

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

Contents 5

Page 6

Copying CD and DVD Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CD and DVD Media

Helpful Tips

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

. . . . . . . . . . 57

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Using Dell MediaDirect™

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

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

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

S-Video and Standard Audio

S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Composite Video and Standard Audio

Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Component Video and Standard Audio

Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

Enabling the Display Settings for a TV

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

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

. . . . . . . . . 64

. . . . . . . 66

. . . . 68

. . . . . . 70

. . . . 72

. . . . . . . 74

8 Using Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

ExpressCards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

ExpressCard Blanks

Installing an ExpressCard

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

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

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

. . . . . . . . 77

6 Contents

Memory Card Reader

Memory Card Blanks

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

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

Installing a Memory Card

Removing a Memory Card or Blank

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

. . . . . . . . 80

Page 7

9 Setting Up and Using Networks . . . . . . . 81

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Setting Up a Network

Wireless Local Area Network

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

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

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

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

. . . . . . 82

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

Connecting to a WLAN

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

. . . . . . . . . 83

Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)

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

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

. . . . . . . . . 86

. . . . 87

. . . 88

Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

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

. . . . . . . . . 89

10 Securing Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Passwords

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

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

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

Contents 7

Page 8

11 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Dell Technical Update Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Dell Diagnostics

Dell Support Utility

Drive Problems

Optical drive problems

Hard drive problems

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

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

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

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

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

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

ExpressCard Problems

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

External Keyboard problems

Unexpected characters

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

. . . . . . . . . . . . 108

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

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

The computer stops responding

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft

A solid blue screen appears

Dell MediaDirect problems

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)

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 122) or run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 93).

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.

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates

can be found at support.dell.com.

Dell™ Product Information Guide

Finding Information 15

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What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

Setup Diagram

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft

Windows® Product Key

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

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

or contact 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

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What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business

segment to view the appropriate support site.

• Community — Online discussion with 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

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

country/region, and then click

Drivers & 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.

operation of your Dell computer.

, select your

Find

, or under

Downloads

, search for the keyword

Finding Information 17

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What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints — Frequently asked questions, hot topics, and general health of your computing environment

Dell Support Utility

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

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

• How to use Windows Vista™

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

Windows Help and Support

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 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 157.

" on page 97

Help and Support

, type a word or phrase

18 Finding Information

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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.

• 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 Operating System" on page 124.

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

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20 Finding Information

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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:

1 Click

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.

Start

Under

Pick a Task

and diagnose problems.

Under

My Computer Information

, and then click

, click

Help and Support

Use Tools to view your computer information

, select

Hardware

About Your Computer 21

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Front View

22 About Your Computer

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1 camera indicator 2 camera (optional)

3 digital microphones (2) 4 display

5 media control buttons 6 touch pad

7 touch pad buttons 8 microphone connector

9 headphone connectors (2) 10 wireless switch

11 device status lights 12 8-in-1 memory card reader

13 keyboard 14 Dell™ MediaDirect™ button

15 keyboard status lights 16 power button

CAMERA INDICATOR — Indicates camera ON/OFF status.

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.

IGITAL MICROPHONES — Digital directional microphones for conferencing and chat.

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

page 39.

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

Mute the sound. Play the previous track.

Turn the volume down. Play the next track.

Turn the volume up. Stop.

Play or pause.

About Your Computer 23

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TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse (see "Touch Pad" on page 43).

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 43).

HEADPHONE CONNECTORS — Dual headphone connectors for attaching headphones.

MICROPHONE CONNECTOR — Attach a microphone to this connector.

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

a wireless LAN (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.

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

The lights located on the palm rest towards the front of the computer 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.

24 About Your Computer

Page 25

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.

Bluetooth

status light – Turns on when a card with Bluetooth wireless

technology is enabled.

NOTE: The 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.

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

8-IN-1 MEMORY CARD READER —

share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card. The 8-in-1 media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory cards:

• Secure Digital (SD)

•SDIO

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

•Memory Stick

• Memory Stick PRO

• xD-Picture Card

• Hi Speed-SD

• Hi Density-SD

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

Windows logo key.

: The battery charge is critically low.

–Provides a fast and convenient way to view and

About Your Computer 25

Page 26

DELL™ MEDIADIRECT™ BUTTON — Press the Dell MediaDirect button to launch Dell MediaDirect (see "Using Dell MediaDirect™" on page 59).

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.

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

management mode (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 48).

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).

26 About Your Computer

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Left Side View

1 2453 6

1 security cable slot 2 AC adapter connector

3 air vents 4 IEEE 1394a connector

5 USB connectors (2) 6 ExpressCard slot

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

to the computer (see "Security Cable Lock" on page 91).

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.

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.

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.

IEEE 1394

transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras.

A CONNECTOR — Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394a high-speed

About Your Computer 27

Page 28

USB CONNECTORS

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

XPRESSCARD SLOT — Supports one ExpressCard. The computer ships with a

plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see "ExpressCards" on page 75.

Right Side View

1 optical drive 2 eject button

3 S-video TV-out connector 4 USB connectors (2)

5 video connector (VGA)

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

Multimedia" on page 53.

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

28 About Your Computer

Page 29

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.

CONNECTOR

VIDEO

Connects video devices, such as a monitor.

About Your Computer 29

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Back View

1 modem connector (RJ-11) 2 network connector (RJ-45)

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

Connects the telephone line to the modem connector.

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

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.

30 About Your Computer

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Bottom View

1 battery-bay latch releases (2) 2 hard drive

3 battery 4 battery charge/health gauge

5 processor and thermal module cover 6 memory module/coin-cell

3 41

6 5

battery/bluetooth/modem compartment cover

About Your Computer 31

Page 32

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASES — Releases the battery (see "Replacing the Battery"

on page 50

HARD DRIVE — Stores software and data.

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

for instructions).

connecting the computer to an electrical outlet (see "Using a Battery" on page 45).

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

(see "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 46).

PROCESSOR AND THERMAL MODULE COVER — Covers the processor and thermal

module.

MEMORY MODULE/COIN- CELL/BLUETOOTH/ MODEM BATTERY COMPARTMENT —

Compartment that contains the memory modules, modem, bluetooth, and the coin-cell battery. For additional information, see "Adding and Replacing Parts" on page 129.

NOTE: Bluetooth is optional and may not be included in your computer.

32 About Your Computer

Page 33

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 jack 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 33

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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.

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

and Internet Problems" on page 100. If you cannot connect to the Internet, but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP may have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

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

the Internet wizard can help you obtain one.

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

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

Click

Start

Under

Network and Internet

The

Connect to the Internet

Click either you want to connect:

• Choose satellite modem.

• Choose WLAN card.

• Choose

, and then click

Control Panel

, click

Connect to the Internet

window appears.

Broadband (PPPoE), Wireless

Broadband

Wireless

Dial-up

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

if you will use a wireless connection through a

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

, or

Dial-up

, depending on how

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.

34 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 35

Transferring Information to a New Computer

You can transfer the following types of data from one computer to another:

• E-mail messages

• Toolbar settings

• Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

Use one of the following methods for transferring data:

• Windows Easy Transfer wizard, an Easy Transfer Cable, and a USB port

• Over a network

• Removable media, such as a writable CD

Windows Easy Transfer

Click

Start

Windows Easy Transfer

In the

User Account Control

Click

Start a new transfer

Follow the instructions in the Windows Easy Transfer wizard.

→ All Programs →

Accessories →

dialog box, click

Continue a transfer in progress

System Tools

Continue

→

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.

Setting Up Your Computer 35

Page 36

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.

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

36 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 37

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

If the

Add New Hardware Wizard

Click

Start

Click

Add a printer

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

page 122 and the documentation that came with your printer.

Click

Add a local printer

Follow the instructions in the Add Printer Wizard.

, and then click

to start the Add Printer Wizard.

window appears, click

Cancel

Network.

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 jack and disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet.

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

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

network cable from the network wall jack during electrical storms.

Setting Up Your Computer 37

Page 38

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).

38 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 39

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. 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.

Switching the Video Image From Your Computer Display To 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.

Using the Display 39

Page 40

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

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 needed.

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.

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:

Click

Start

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

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

→ Control Panel

window, under

, click

Adjust screen resolution

Resolution

, move the slide bar to

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

40 Using the Display

Page 41

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 41

Page 42

Key Combinations

System Functions

<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Task M a nage 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 46).

Power Management

<Fn><Esc> Activates a power management mode. See

"Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 48.

Microsoft

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 Functions

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.

42 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 43

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

Opens the System Properties dialog box.

Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations

If Dell QuickSet is installed, you can use other shortcut keys for functions such as the Battery Meter. 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 ,

Click

Hardware and Sound

Click

Keyboard

and then click

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.

1 touch pad 2 silk screen depicting scrolling capabilities

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 43

Page 44

• 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 ,

Click

Hardware and Sound

Click

Keyboard

In the

Mouse Properties

•Click the

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

and then click

window:

Device Select

Tou ch Pa d

tab to adjust touch pad settings.

Control Panel

tab to disable the touch pad.

44 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 45

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, media 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 "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 48 for information about accessing Windows Power Options Properties, which you can use to configure power management settings).

Using a Battery 45

Page 46

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.

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

46 Using a Battery

Dell QuickSet Battery Meter:

Battery Meter

Page 47

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.

Check the Battery Health

pressing

and

releasing

holding

the status button)

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 the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery (see "Battery" on page 172 for more information about the battery operating time).

Using a Battery 47

Page 48

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 Sleep state 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 "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 48).

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.

• Configure the power management settings using Microsoft Windows Power Options to optimize your computer’s power usage (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 48).

• Use the Sleep power state when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time (see "Using the Sleep Power State" on page 49).

Configuring Power Management Settings

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

To use Windows Power Options, do one of the following:

• Click

•

48 Using a Battery

Start → Control Panel →

and then select a power plan in the

Click the icon in the notification area

select a plan in the

Select a power plan

Hardware and Sound→

Select a power plan

window.

, click

Power Options

window.

, and then

Page 49

Using the Sleep Power State

Rather than shutting down your portable computer, use the Sleep power state to conserve power. Sleep automatically saves your work to your hard drive, and then returns you to your previous work session without restarting your computer.

NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in Sleep state, it may

lose data.

To enter Sleep state:

•

Click the

• Depending on how you set the power management options in the Windows Power Options, use one of the following methods:

• Press the power button.

• Close the display.

• Press <Fn><Esc>.

To exit Sleep state, press the power button.

Start

, click , and then click

Sleep

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 114.

Using a Battery 49

Page 50

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.

NOTICE: If you choose to replace the battery with the computer in Sleep state, 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:

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, follow the removal procedure in reverse order.

Storing a Battery

Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully (see "Charging the Battery" on page 49) before you use it.

50 Using a Battery

Page 51

Using the Optional Camera

If you ordered a camera when you bought your computer, the camera is integrated in the computer display. The camera and its integrated digital microphones allow you to take photos and videos and to communicate visually and verbally with other computer users. The blue camera light appears when the camera is turned on. For more information about camera features, see "Specifications" on page 167.

NOTE: It is normal for the camera to feel warm to the touch when the computer is

running and when the camera is in use.

1 digital microphones (2) 2 camera indicator 3 camera

Accessing the Camera’s Help File

To access the camera’s Video Software Help file, right-click the icon in the notification area and click Launch Webcam Center. Click Help from the menu and select Contents.

Using the Optional Camera 51

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Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings

If you do not want the camera to use automatic settings, you can manually adjust the camera settings.

1 Right-click the icon

Webcam Console

In the

Webcam Console

•Click the brightness.

•Click the level.

For more information about camera settings and other camera-related topics, see the camera’s Video Software Help file (see "Accessing the Camera’s Help File" on page 51).

Camera

Effects

in the notification area and click

window:

tab to adjust video settings, such as contrast and

tab to adjust audio settings, such as the volume

Launch

Creating a Picture or a Video

Click the icon in the notification area and click

The

QuickCapture

You can now direct the camera to point at the object or person that you want to record. The camera target view.

To take a picture, click

To record a video, click

window appears and the blue camera light turns on.

QuickCapture

Take a Picture

Record a Video

window on the screen shows you the

QuickCapture

Unless you designate a different location, the picture or video is automatically saved to the

For more information about creating pictures or videos, see the camera’s Video Software Help file (see "Accessing the Camera’s Help File" on page 51).

52 Using the Optional Camera

My Pictures

folder on your hard drive.

Page 53

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.

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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.

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

Play.

Move backward within the current track.

Pause.

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.

Pause.

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).

54 Using Multimedia

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Playing Media Using Dell Express Card Remote Control

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

To play media using Dell Express Card remote control:

Install a coin-cell battery into your Express Card remote control.

Launch Windows Vista™ Media Center from

Use the remote control buttons to play media.

Start → Programs

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1 Infrared Transmitter 2 Page Up

3 Page Down 4 Arrow Up

5 OK/Enter/Select 6 Arrow Right

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 and DVD Media

This section applies only to computers that have a DVD+/-RW 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 or DVD 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 installed in Dell computers do not support HD-DVD media. For a list of supported media formats, see "Using Blank CD and DVD Media" on page 57.

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How to Copy a CD or DVD

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

using Roxio Creator Plus.

Click

Start

Under the

To copy the CD or DVD:

If you have one optical drive

• ensure that the settings are correct, and then click the

→ All Programs → Roxio Creator DE →

Copy

tab, click

Copy Disc

, insert the source disc into the drive,

Projects →

Copy Disc

Copy

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 and DVD Media

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

Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After 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 media can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-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 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

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

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DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +R W Ye s Ye s Ye s

DV D -R W Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Yes Yes No

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.

• 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.

• See the Roxio website at

Roxio Creator

www.sonic.com

and open a Creator project.

58 Using Multimedia

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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 Vol um e 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.

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.

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1 Dell MediaDirect button

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 166).

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.

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

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 component video adapter

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

5 Pb (blue) component video-output

connector

6 Y (green) component video-output

connector

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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.

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 74 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 74.

S-Video and Standard Audio

1 audio connector 2 S-video TV-out connector

62 Using Multimedia

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1 standard S-video cable 2 standard audio cable

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

NOTE: 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 74 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

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S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

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

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

64 Using Multimedia

Page 65

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 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable

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

on the TV.

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

1 2

1 composite video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable

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

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

See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 74 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

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Page 66

Composite Video and Standard Audio

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

3 composite video adapter

1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable

3 standard audio cable

66 Using Multimedia

Page 67

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.

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

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Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

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

1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable

3 standard audio cable

68 Using Multimedia

Page 69

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.

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

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Component Video and Standard Audio

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

1 component video adapter 2 component video cable

3 standard audio cable

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

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

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

1 component video adapter 2 component video cable

Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable into the component 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 74 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.

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Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio

1 2

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

1 component video adapter 2 component video cable

3 standard audio cable

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

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

1 component video adapter 2 component video-output connectors

3 component video cable

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

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

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

Personalization

Under

Personalization

Display Properties

The

, click

Control Panel

, and then click

, click

Adjust Screen Resolution

window appears.

Appearance and

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.

74 Using Multimedia

Help

Page 75

Using Cards

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 167 for information on supported ExpressCards.

NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.

1 ExpressCard/34 2 ExpressCard/54

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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.

Remove the blank before installing an ExpressCard. To remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 77.

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 Product Information Guide.

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.

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1 2

1 slot 2 ExpressCard

The computer recognizes the ExpressCard and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the 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 Product Information Guide.

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

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

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1 release button

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

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Memory Card Blanks

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

Remove the blank before installing a media memory card. To remove the blank, see "Removing a Memory Card or Blank" on page 80.

Installing a Memory Card

You can install a media 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.

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.

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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 Product Information Guide.

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.

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

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Setting Up and Using Networks

Setting up 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 Windows Vista™ operating system provides a wizard to help guide you through the process of networking computers. For more information about Networking, access Windows Help and Support (click Help and Support).

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 back of your computer.

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.

Start and then click

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

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Setting Up a Network

Click

Start

Click

Set up a connection or network

Select an option under

Click

, and then click

Choose a connection option

, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

Connect To

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

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 the

• Check the order confirmation for your computer

82 Setting Up and Using Networks

Device Manager

Page 83

Device Manager

Click

Start

Click

Classic View

Double-click

NOTE: The User Account Control window may open.

Click

Continue

Click the + next to

, and then click

Control Panel

on the menu on the left side of the

Device Manager

on the

Network adapters

User Account Control

to list the utility that manages your

Control Panel

window if it opens.

wireless network card.

If a network adapter is not listed, you may not have a wireless network card.

If a network adapter is listed, you have a wireless network card. To view detailed information about the wireless network card:

Right-click the name of the network adapter.

Click

Properties

The Order Confirmation for Your Computer

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 81).

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 through the Windows Vista Start button .

Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.

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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.

NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband

modem before continuing with the network setup.

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

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

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

NOTE: Restart your wireless equipment in the order described below to prevent a

potential connection failure.

Tu r n o n

only

your broadband modem and wait for at least 2 minutes for

the broadband modem to stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to step 12.

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

Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.

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

• Establish communication between your computer and your wireless

router.

• Configure your wireless router to communicate with your broadband

router.

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

the name of your router’s broadcast name is Service Set Identifier (SSID) or network name.

If necessary, configure your wireless network card to connect to the wireless network (see "Connecting to a WLAN" on page 85).

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Connecting to a WLAN

NOTE: Before you connect to a WLAN, ensure that you have followed the

instructions in "Wireless Local Area Network" on page 82.

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

Bluetooth

This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary. See "Wireless Local Area Network" on page 82 for more information about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.

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

NOTE: If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions in the user

documentation for your wireless network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on page 82.

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

To connect to the network:

Click

Click Network folder.

Click

Select your network from the list and click

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

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

wireless technology or cellular products.

Start

Network and Sharing

Connect to a network

, and then click

on the navigation bar at the top of the

under

Network

Ta s ks

Connect

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

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

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

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Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet

The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. To turn the wireless activity indicator on or off, click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Hotkey Popups. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is not checked, the indicator is on. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is checked, the indicator is off.

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

For more information about the Dell QuickSet wireless activity indicator, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar, and then select Help.

Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)

A Mobile Broadband network, also known as a Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN), is a high-speed digital cellular network that provides Internet access over a much wider geographical area than a WLAN, which typically covers only from 100 to 1000 feet. Your computer can maintain Mobile Broadband network access as long as the computer is within a cellular-data coverage zone. Contact your service provider for coverage of a high-speed digital cellular network.

NOTE: Even if you are able to make a call from your cellular phone in a specific

geographical location, that location may not necessarily be within a cellular-data coverage zone.

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

NOTE: Depending on your computer, you can use either a Mobile Broadband

ExpressCard or Mini Card, but not both, to establish a Mobile Broadband network connection.

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

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

NOTE: For instructions on using ExpressCards, see "ExpressCards" on

page 75.

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• An activated Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or activated Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) for your service provider

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

If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide in Windows Help and Support

(click Start

, and then click

Help and Support)

or on the media that accompanied your card if you purchased it separately from your computer.

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To determine your computer configuration, see one of the following:

• Your order confirmation

• Microsoft Windows Help and Support

To check your Mobile Broadband card in Windows Help and Support:

Click

Start →

information and diagnose problems

Under

Tools

the hardware installed on this computer.

On the My Computer Information - Hardware screen, you can view the type of Mobile Broadband card installed in your computer as well as other hardware components.

Help and Support→

, click

My Computer Information→

Use Tools to view your computer

Find information about

NOTE: The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems.

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Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mobile Broadband ExpressCards or Mini-

Cards. They do not apply to internal cards with wireless technology.

NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate Mobile Broadband

service through your cellular service provider. For instructions and for additional information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide available through Windows Help and Support (click Start , and then click Help

and Support). The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and on the media included with your Mobile Broadband card if

you purchased the card separately from your computer.

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

Click the notification area to run the utility.

Click

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

Click

Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon

Connect

NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button.

Start →

Dell Wireless Broadband

All Programs →

Dell Wireless

and follow the instructions on the screen.

in the Windows

Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card

NOTE: If you are unable to connect to a Mobile Broadband network, ensure that

you have all the components for establishing a Mobile Broadband connection (see "What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection" on page 86), and then verify that your Mobile Broadband card is enabled by verifying the setting of the wireless switch.

You can turn your Mobile Broadband card on and off using the wireless switch on your computer.

You can turn your computer’s wireless devices on and off with the wireless switch on the front side of the computer (see "Front View" on page 22).

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If the switch is in the on position, move the switch to the off position to disable the switch and the Mobile Broadband card. If the switch is in the off position, move the switch to the on position to enable the switch and the Dell Mobile Broadband card. For information about the wireless switch positions.

To monitor the status of your wireless device, see "Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet" on page 86.

Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

The wireless switch on your Dell computer uses the Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator to scan specifically for wireless networks in your vicinity.

To scan for a wireless network, slide and hold the wireless switch in the momentary position for a few seconds. The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator functions regardless of whether your computer is turned on or off, or in Sleep state, as long as the switch is configured through Dell QuickSet or the BIOS (system setup program) to control WiFi network connections.

Because the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator is disabled and not configured for use when your computer is shipped to you, you must first use Dell QuickSet to enable and configure the switch to control WiFi network connections. For more information on the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator and to enable the feature through Dell QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification area, and then select Help.

Setting Up and Using Networks 89

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Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock

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

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

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

security cable slot on your computer.

Passwords

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

When using passwords, observe the following guidelines:

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

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

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• Do not share your password with other people.

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

NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or

hard drive. However, they are not foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection such as data encryption programs.

Use the User Accounts option in the Control Panel in the Microsoft® Windows® operating system to create user accounts or to change passwords. Once you create a user password, you must enter it each time you turn on or unlock your computer. If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state. For more information, see your Windows documentation.

If you forget any of your passwords, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 166). For your protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

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

NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement

agency in that area. If you do not know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.

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

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

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

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Troubleshooting

Dell Technical Update Service

The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications.

To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.

Dell Diagnostics

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 109 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.

NOTE: The Dell Diagnostics only operate on Dell computers.

Enter system setup, review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test displays in system setup and is active (see "Using the System Setup Program" on page 177).

Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from your Drivers and Utilities media (see "Drivers and Utilities Media" on page 15).

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

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

NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell" on page 166).

Troubleshooting 93

Page 94

Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly.

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

Start the Dell Diagnostics in one of the following two ways:

When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select Diagnostics from the boot menu, and then press <Enter>.

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

to wait until you see the Microsoft computer and try again.

NOTE: Before attempting option B, the computer must be powered down

completely.

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

NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has

been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities media.

Windows® desktop, then shut down your

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

• During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.

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

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

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

down the error code(s) and contact Dell.

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

Press any key to continue

Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility

Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition.

partition on your hard drive.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media

Insert your

Shut down and restart the computer.

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

Drivers and Utilities

media.

94 Troubleshooting

Page 95

NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down

for extended periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and release <F12> in even intervals until the boot device menu appears.

At the boot device menu, use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

CD/DVD/CD-RW

NOTE: The Quickboot feature changes the boot sequence for the current

boot only. Upon restart, the computer boots according to the boot sequence specified in system setup.

Select the

Boot from CD-ROM

, and then press <Enter>.

option from the menu that appears, and

then press <Enter>.

Ty p e 1 to start the

Select

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

Drivers and Utilities

menu, and then press <Enter>.

from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer.

At the Dell Diagnostics

NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they

appear and follow the instructions on the screen.

After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell Diagnostics

Remove your

Main Menu

Drivers and Utilities

Main Menu

media, then close the

, select the test you want to run.

Main Menu

window to exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want.

NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test

on your computer.

Option Function

Test Memory Run the stand-alone memory test Test System Run System Diagnostics Exit Exit the Diagnostics

Troubleshooting 95

Page 96

After you have selected the Test System option from the main menu, the following menu appears.

NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Test from the menu

below to run a more thorough check of the devices in the computer.

Option Function

Express Test Performs a quick test of system

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

Extended Test Performs a thorough check of system

devices. The test typically takes an hour or more and periodically requires your input to answer specific questions.

Custom Test Tests a specific device in the system

and can be used to customize the tests you want to run.

Symptom Tree Lists a number of common symptoms and

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

For any problem encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description exactly as it appears and follow the instructions on the screen. If you cannot resolve the problem, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 166).

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen.

When contacting Dell support, have your Service Tag ready.

The following tabs provide additional information for tests run from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option:

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Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any

error conditions encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered,

error codes, and the problem description.

Help Describes the test and any requirements

for running the test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration

for the selected device. The Dell Diagnostics obtains

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

Parameters Allows you to customize the test by

changing the test settings.

Dell Support Utility

The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment. This utility provides self-support information, software updates, and health scans for your computer. Use this utility to do the following:

• Check your computing environment

• View the Dell Support Utility settings

• Access the help file for the Dell Support Utility

• View frequently asked questions

• Learn more about the Dell Support Utility

• Turn the Dell Support Utility off

Troubleshooting 97

Page 98

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

To access the Dell Support Utility:

• Click the Dell Support icon in the notification area.

NOTE: The icon functions vary when clicking, double-clicking, or

right-clicking.

• Click the

Settings

NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to

support.dell.com and download the software.

Start

. Ensure that the

→

All Programs → Dell Support → Dell Support

Show icon on the taskbar

option is checked.

Drive Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 165 as you complete these checks.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE —

• Click

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

TEST THE DRIVE

• Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that

• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 180.

ENSURE THAT THE CD OR DVD MEDIA IS SNAPPED ONTO THE SPINDLE

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

CHECK FOR HARDWARE INCOMPATIBILITIES — See "Troubleshooting Software

and Hardware Problems" on page 124.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 93.

Start

→

Computer

the original media is defective.

98 Troubleshooting

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Optical drive problems

NOTE: High-speed optical drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which

does not indicate a defect in the drive or the media.

NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all

DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

Problems writing to a CD-RW or DVD+/-RW drive

CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — CD-RW and DVD+/-RW drives must receive a

steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the drive.

TURN OFF SLEEP STATE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD DISC —

See "Using the Sleep Power State" on page 49 for information on Sleep state.

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

or DVD creation software.

The drive tray cannot eject

Ensure that the computer is shut down.

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

Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

The drive makes an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

• Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.

• Ensure that the disc is inserted properly.

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Hard drive problems

ALLOW THE COMPUTER TO COOL BEFORE TURNING IT ON — A hot hard drive may

prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.

RUN CHECK DISK —

Click

Start

Right-click

Click

Properties→ Tools→

NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an

administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action.

Click to check click

Start

→

Computer

Local Disk (C:)

Check Now

Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors

, and then

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not

operate while it is connected to a digital telephone network.

HECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK

cannot open your e-mail attachments:

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

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

EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS — If you

Tools

, click

Options

, and then click

Security

to remove the checkmark.

USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE

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

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

100 Troubleshooting