Dell PY349, DCSM User Manual

Dell™ Dimension™ E521
Owner’s Manual
Service Tag
CD or DVD eject button
CD or DVD activity light
FlexBay for optional floppy drive or Media Card Reader
headphone connector
diagnostic lights
hard-drive activity light
power button/ power activity light
USB 2.0 connectors (2)
cover latch release
Model DCSM
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary" on page 145.
®
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft operating systems are not applicable.
Windows®
____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2006–2007 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, P owerV ault, P owerApp,
DellNet, Dell T ravelLite, Strike Zone, and PowerConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. En vironmental Protection Agency .
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model DCSM
July 2007 P/N PY349 Rev. A03

Contents

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Front View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Back View of the Computer
Back Panel Connectors
Setting Up a Printer
Printer Cable
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Connecting a Printer
Connecting to the Internet
Setting Up Your Internet Connection
Playing CDs and DVDs
Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture
Copying CDs and DVDs
How to Copy a CD or DVD Using Blank CDs and DVDs Helpful Tips
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)
Connecting Two Monitors
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
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Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and
One Monitor With a DVI Connector Connecting a TV
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Changing the Display Settings
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Setting Up a Home and Office Network
Connecting to a Network Adapter Network Setup Wizard
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
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Contents 3
Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Standby Mode Hibernate Mode Power Options Properties
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet™ Technology
About RAID Configurations
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
RAID Level 1 Configuration Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility Using Nvidia MediaShield
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
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2 Solving Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Troubleshooting Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Battery Problems
Drive Problems
CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems
Error Messages
Keyboard Problems
Lockups and Software Problems
The computer does not start up The computer stops responding A program stops responding A program crashes repeatedly A program is designed for an earlier
Microsoft A solid blue screen appears Other software problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
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®
Windows® operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
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4 Contents
Media Card Reader Problems
Memory Problems
Mouse Problems
Network Problems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
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Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Printer Problems
Scanner Problems
Sound and Speaker Problems
No sound from speakers No sound from headphones
Video and Monitor Problems
If the screen is blank If the screen is difficult to read
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
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3 Troubleshooting Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Diagnostic Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Dell Diagnostics
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Drivers
What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
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Restoring Your Operating System
Using Microsoft
Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Using Dell PC Restore Using the Operating System CD
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
4 Removing and Installing Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer
Removing the Computer Cover
Inside View of Your Computer
System Board Components
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
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Contents 5
Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Memory Installation Guidelines Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations Installing Memory Removing Memory
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Cards
PCI Cards PCI Express Cards
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
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Drive Panel
Drives
Hard Drives
Floppy Drive
Media Card Reader
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Removing the Drive Panel Removing the Drive-Panel Insert Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert Replacing the Drive Panel
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Recommended Drive Cable Connections Connecting Drive Cables Drive Interface Connectors Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Removing a Hard Drive Installing a Hard Drive Adding a Second Hard Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Removing a Floppy Drive Installing a Floppy Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Removing a Media Card Reader Installing a Media Card Reader
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
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6 Contents
CD/DVD Drive
Removing a CD/DVD Drive Installing a CD/DVD Drive
Battery
Replacing the Battery Replacing the Computer Cover
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A Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
System Setup
Overview Entering System Setup System Setup Options Boot Sequence
Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing CMOS Settings
Cleaning Your Computer
Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor Mouse Floppy Drive CDs and DVDs
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
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Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals
FCC Notice (U.S. Only)
FCC Class B
Contacting Dell
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Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Index
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Contents 7
8 Contents

Finding Information

NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or media
may not be available in certain countries.
NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here
• Warranty information
• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
Dell™ Product Information Guide
• How to set up my computer
• Service Tag and Express Service Code
• Microsoft Windows License Label
Setup Diagram
Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License
These labels are located on your computer.
•Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use
support.dell.com
contact support.
•Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting support.
or
Finding Information 9
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online courses, frequently asked questions
• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers
Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support site. NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers
can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website at premier.support.dell.com.
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system
• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and order status, warranty, and repair information
• Service and support — Service call status and support history, service contract, online discussions with technical support
• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my computer configuration, product specifications, and white papers
• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates
• Desktop System Software (DSS)— If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the DSS utility. DSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell™
3.5-inch USB floppy drives, optical drives, and USB devices. DSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration.
To download
1
Go to
support.dell.com
2
Enter your Service Tag or product model.
3
In the
4
Select the operating system and operating system language for your computer, and click
5
Under
Configuration Utilities Software
• How to use Windows XP
• How to work with programs and files
• How to personalize my desktop
Windows Help and Support Center
1
Click
Start→
2
Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon.
3
Click the topic that describes your problem.
4
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Desktop
System Software:
and click
Download Category
Select a Device
, scroll to
, and click
.
Help and Support
Downloads
.
drop-down menu, click
Submit.
System and
Dell Desktop System
.
All
.
10 Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front View of the Computer

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 9
10
11
12
1 cover latch release Use this latch to remove the cover. See "Removing the
Computer Cover" on page 63.
2 location of Service Tag Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you access
the Dell Support website or call technical support.
3 CD or DVD eject button Press to eject a disk from the CD or DVD drive.
4 CD or DVD activity light The drive light is on when the computer reads data from the
CD or DVD drive.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 11
5 FlexBay drive Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional Media Card
Reader. For information on using the Media Card Reader, see "Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)" on page 22.
6 microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal computer
microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program. On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.
7 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most
kinds of speakers.
8 diagnostic lights (4) Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem
based on the diagnostic code. For more information, see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 49.
9 hard-drive activity light The hard drive activity light is on when the computer reads
data from or writes data to the hard drive. The light might also be on when a device such as a CD player is operating.
10 power button,
power light
11 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect
12 vents For adequate cooling, do not block any of the vents.
Press the power button to turn on the computer. The light in the center of this button indicates power state. See "Controls and Lights" on page 109 for more information.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button
to turn off the computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown.
occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see "System Setup Options" on page 112 for more information on booting to a USB device). It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.
12 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
NOTICE: Ensure that there is a minimum of two inches of
space between all vents and any object near these vents.
NOTICE: Keep the vent area clean and dust-free to ensure
that the computer is adequately ventilated. Use only a dry cloth to clean the vent area to avoid water damage to the computer.

Back View of the Computer

1 2
3
4
1 voltage selection switch See the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide for more
information.
2 power connector Insert the power cable.
3 back panel connectors Plug USB, audio, and other devices into the appropriate connector.
See "Back Panel Connectors" on page 14 for more information.
4 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express cards.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 13

Back Panel Connectors

2
3
1 link integrity light
2 network adapter
connector
1
11
• Green — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps network and the computer.
• Orange — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps network and the computer.
• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.
To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a network cable to either a network port or your network or broadband device. Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back panel of your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached.
10
4
5
6
7
9
8
NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network connector.
On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card. It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your network. If you must use Category 3 wiring, force the network speed to 10 Mbps to ensure reliable operation.
3 network activity light Flashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting or receiving network
data. A high volume of network traffic may make this light appear to be in a steady "on" state.
4 surround connector Use the black surround connector to attach multichannel-capable speakers.
5 line-in connector Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a
cassette player, CD player, or VCR. On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
6 line-out connector Use the green line-out connector (available on computers with integrated sound)
to attach headphones and most speakers with integrated amplifiers.
7 microphone Use the pink connector to attach a personal computer microphone for voice or
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
musical input into a sound or telephony program. On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.
14 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
8 side surround connector Use the silver connector to provide enhanced surround audio for computers with
7.1 speakers. On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.
9 center/subwoofer
connector
10 USB 2.0 connectors (4) Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
11 VGA video connector Connect the monitor’s VGA cable to the VGA connector on the computer.
Use the yellow connector to attach a speaker to a Low Frequency Effects (LFE) audio channel.
printers and keyboards.
It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras.
On computers with a video card, use the connector on the card.

Setting Up a Printer

NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer.
See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to:
Obtain and install updated drivers.
Connect the printer to the computer.
Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.
For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the printer manufacturer.

Printer Cable

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

Connecting a Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1
Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.
2
Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15
1
2
3
1 USB connector on computer 2 USB printer cable 3 USB connector on printer
3
Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the appears, click
4
Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.
Cancel
.
Add New Hardware Wizard
window

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.
To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options:
Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections.
DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same line simultaneously.
Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line.
If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions.
16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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.
1
2
Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.
3
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP:
1
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2
Click the
The
3
Click
4
In the next window, click the appropriate option:
If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click
If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD,
If you have a CD, click
5
Click
If you selected on the screen to complete the setup.
Start
button and click
New Connection Wizard
Connect to the Internet
providers (ISPs)
click
Set up my connection manually
.
Use the CD I got from an ISP
Next
.
Set up my connection manually
Internet Explorer
appears.
.
.
.
Choose from a list of Internet service
.
, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.
6
Click the appropriate option under
7
Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
How do you want to connect to the Internet?
, and then click
Next
If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 35. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 17
.

Playing CDs and DVDs

NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are
not using the drive.
NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs.
1
Press the eject button on the front of the drive.
2
Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.
3
Press the eject button or gently push in the tray.
To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer.
NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.
A CD player includes the following basic buttons:
Play
Move backward within the current track
Pau se
Move forward within the current track
Stop
Go to the previous track
Eject
Go to the next track
18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:
Stop
Restart the current chapter
Play
Fast forward
Pau se
Fast reverse
Advance a single frame while in pause mode
Go to the next title or chapter
Continuously play the current title or chapter
Go to the previous title or chapter
Eject
For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.
1
Click the
Volume Control
2
In the or down to increase or decrease the volume.
For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.
Start
button, point to
.
Volume Control
All Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment
window, click and drag the bar in the
Volume Control
, and then click
column and slide it up

Adjusting the Picture

If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties:
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Under
4
In the
800 by 600 pixels
5
Click the drop-down menu under
6
Click OK.
Start
button and click
Pick a category
Pick a task...
, click
, click
Display Properties
.
Control Panel
Appearance and Themes
Change the screen resolution
.
.
.
window, click and drag the bar in
Color quality
, and then click
Screen resolution
Medium (16 bit)
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 19
to change the setting to
.

Copying CDs and DVDs

NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when creating CDs or DVDs.
This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD (combo) drive.
NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic DigitalMedia for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Sonic DigitalMedia and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive and you
experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at www.sonic.com.
The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.
NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic DigitalMedia.
1
Click
Start→
2
To copy the CD or DVD:
If you have one CD or DVD drive
The computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.
When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive and click
All Programs→
Sonic→ DigitalMedia Projects→ Copy→ Disc Copy
, ensure that the settings are correct and click the
OK
.
.
Disc Copy
button.
If you have two CD or DVD drives
DVD and click the to the blank CD or DVD.
Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created automatically ejects.
Disc Copy
, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or
button. The computer copies the data from the source CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed CD-RW) while DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.
Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.
20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+/-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.
CD-Writable Drives
Media Type Read Write Rewritable
CD-R Yes Yes No
C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s
DVD-Writable Drives
Media Type Read Write Rewritable
CD-R Yes Yes No
C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s
DVD+R Yes Yes No
DVD-R Yes Yes No
DV D +R W Ye s Ye s Ye s
DV D -R W Ye s Ye s Ye s
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 Sonic DigitalMedia and open a DigitalMedia project.
Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos.
You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic DigitalMedia.
Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.
Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may not support all available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by your DVD player, see the documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer.
Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1–2 MB of the blank space to finalize the recording.
Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank CD-RWs to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.
See the Sonic website at
www.sonic.com
for additional information.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 21

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Use the Media Card Reader to transfer data directly to your computer.
The Media Card Reader supports the following memory types:
•xD-Picture Card
SmartMedia (SMC)
CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II)
MicroDrive Card
SecureDigital Card (SD)
MultiMediaCard (MMC)
Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)
For information on installing a Media Card Reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on page 98.
1
2
3
4
1 xD-Picture Card and
SmartMedia (SMC)
3 Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro) 4 SecureDigital Card (SD)/
22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
2 CompactFlash Type I and II
(CF I/II) and MicroDrive Card
MultiMediaCard (MMC)
To use the Media Card Reader:
1
Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion.
2
Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector.
If you encounter resistance, do not force the media or card. Check the card orientation and try again.

Connecting Two Monitors

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
If you purchased a graphics card that supports dual monitors, follow these instructions to connect and enable your monitors. The instructions tell you how to connect either two monitors (each with a VGA connector), one monitor with a VGA connector and one monitor with a DVI connector, or a TV.
NOTICE: If you are connecting two monitors that have VGA connectors, you must have the optional DVI adapter to
connect the cable. If you are connecting two flat-panel monitors, at least one of them must have a VGA connector. If you are connecting a TV, you may connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the TV.

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
NOTE: If your computer has integrated video, do not connect either monitor to the integrated video connector.
If the integrated video connector is covered by a cap, do not remove the cap to connect the monitor or the monitor will not function.
2
Connect one of the monitors to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.
3
Connect the other monitor to the optional DVI adapter and connect the DVI adapter to the DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 23
2*
1
3*
4
*May not be present on your computer
1 optional DVI adapter 2 DVI (white) connector 3 TV-OUT connector
4 VGA (blue) connector

Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.
3
Connect the DVI connector on the other monitor to the DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.

Connecting a TV

NOTE: You must purchase an S-video cable, available at most consumer electronics stores, to connect a TV to
your computer. It is not included with your computer.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Connect one end of the S-video cable to the optional TV-OUT connector on the back of the computer.
3
Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV.
4
Connect the VGA or DVI monitor.
24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Changing the Display Settings

2
1
1
After you connect the monitor(s) or TV, turn on the computer.
®
The Microsoft
2
Enable clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings.
Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.
In clone mode, both monitors display the same image.
In extended desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling
the amount of viewable work space.
For information on changing the display settings for your graphics card, see the user’s guide in the Help and Support Center (click the
, click
guides
Device guides
, and then click the guide for your graphics card).
Start
button, click
Help and Support
, click
User and system

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

NOTICE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the computer. Do not plug the network
cable into the modem connector on the computer. Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack.
1
Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.
Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.
2
Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device.
3
1 network adapter connector 2 network device 3 network adapter connector on computer
4 network cable
4
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 25

Network Setup Wizard

The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office.
1
Click the
Network Setup Wizard
2
On the welcome screen, click
3
Click
NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated
firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack.
4
Complete the checklist and required preparations.
5
Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.
Start
button, point to
.
Checklist for creating a network
All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications
Next
.
, and then click
.

Power Management

The Microsoft® Windows® XP power management features can reduce the amount of electricity your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can reduce power to just the monitor or the hard drive, or you can use standby mode or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire computer. When the computer exits from a power conservation mode, the Windows desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode.
NOTE: Windows XP Professional includes security and networking features not available in Windows XP Home
Edition. When a Windows XP Professional computer is connected to a network, different options related to security and networking appear in certain windows.

Standby Mode

Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out. When the computer exits from standby mode, it returns to the operating state it was in before it entered standby mode.
To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity:
Click the
1
2
Under
3
Under
To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click the Start button, click Turn Off Computer, and then click Stand by.
To exit from standby mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.
NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data.
26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Start
button and click
Pick a category
or pick a Control Panel icon
, click
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
, click
Power Options
.
.
.

Hibernate Mode

Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits from hibernate mode, the desktop is restored to the state it was in
To activate hibernate mode:
Click the
1
2
Under
3
Under
4
Define your hibernate settings on the
To exit from hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit from hibernate mode. Pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the computer out of hibernation, because the keyboard and the mouse do not function when the computer is in hibernate mode.
Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you. If the computer’s hard drive becomes corrupted, Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.
Start
button and click
Pick a category
or pick a Control Panel icon
before it entered hibernate mode.
Control Panel
, click
Performance and Maintenance
, click
Power Schemes
.
Power Options
.
tab,
.
Advanced
tab, and
Hibernate
tab.

Power Options Properties

Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the Power Options Properties window.
Click the
1
2
Under
3
Under
4
Define your power settings on the
Start
button and click
Pick a category
or pick a Control Panel icon
, click
To access the Power Options Properties window:
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
, click
Power Schemes
.
Power Options
tab,
Advanced
.
.
tab, and
Hibernate
tab.
Power Schemes Tab
Each standard power setting is called a scheme. If you want to select one of the standard Windows schemes installed on your computer, choose a scheme from the Power schemes drop-down menu. The settings for each scheme appear in the fields below the scheme name. Each scheme has different settings for starting standby mode or hibernate mode, turning off the monitor, and turning off the hard drive.
The Power schemes drop-down menu displays the following schemes:
Always On
Home/Office Desk
power conservation.
Presentation
Minimal Power Management
Max Battery
• extended periods of time.
(default) — If you want to use your computer with no power conservation.
— If you use your computer as a home or office computer and you require minimal
— If you want your computer to run without interruption (using no power conservation).
— If you want your computer to run with minimal power conservation.
— If your computer is a portable computer and you run your computer from batteries for
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 27
If you want to change the default settings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the Turn off monitor, Turn off hard disks, System stand by, or System hibernates field, and then select a time-out from the
displayed list. Changing the time-out for a scheme field permanently changes the default settings for that scheme, unless you click Save As and enter a new name for the changed scheme.
NOTICE: If you set the hard drive (hard disk) to time-out before the monitor does, your computer may appear to be
locked up. To recover, press any key on the keyboard or click the mouse. To avoid this problem, always set the monitor to time-out before the hard drive.
Advanced Tab
The Advanced tab allows you to:
Place the power options icon in the Windows taskbar for quick access.
Set the computer to prompt you for your Windows password before the computer exits from standby mode or hibernate mode.
Program the power button to activate standby mode, activate hibernate mode, or turn off the computer.
To program these functions, click an option from the corresponding drop-down menu and click OK.
Hibernate Tab
The Hibernate tab allows you to enable hibernate mode. If you want to use the hibernate settings you defined on the Power Schemes tab, click the Enable hibernate support check box on the Hibernate tab.
For more information on power management options:
1
Click the
2
In the
3
In the
Start
button and click
Help and Support
Performance and maintenance
Help and Support
window, click
.
Performance and maintenance
window, click
Conserving power on your computer
.
.

Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet™ Technology

Cool ’n’ Quiet technology controls your computer’s processor performance automatically, dynamically adjusting the operating frequency and voltage, according to the task at hand. When an application does not require full performance, significant amounts of power can be saved. Performance is designed to still be responsive, with maximum processor performance being delivered when required, and automatic power savings when possible.
1
Run the system setup program and enable Cool ’n’ Quiet technology using the Power Management options (see "System Setup" on page 111).
2
Click on the
Properties
3
From the
Management
28 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
Start→ Settings→ Control Panel→ Power Options
window.
Power Schemes
and then click OK.
tab, click the Power Schemes drop-down menu and select
to access the
Power Options
Minimal Power

About RAID Configurations

This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration you may have selected when you purchased your computer. Your computer supports RAID level 1. A RAID level 1 is recommended for users that desire a high level of data integrity.
The drives in a RAID configuration should be the same size in order to ensure that the larger drive does not contain unallocated (and therefore unusable) space.

RAID Level 1 Configuration

RAID level 1 uses a data-redundancy storage technique known as mirroring to enhance data integrity. When data is written to the primary drive, the data is also duplicated, or mirrored, on the second drive in the configuration. A RAID level 1 configuration sacrifices high data-access rates for its data redundancy advantages.
serial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 1
segment 1
segment 2
segment 3
segment 4
segment 5
segment 6
hard drive 1
segment 1 duplicated
segment 2 duplicated
segment 3 duplicated
segment 4 duplicated
segment 5 duplicated
segment 6 duplicated
hard drive 2
If a drive failure occurs, subsequent read and write operations are directed to the surviving drive. A replacement drive can then be rebuilt using the data from the surviving drive.
NOTE: In a RAID level 1 configuration, the size of the configuration is equal to the size of the smallest drive in the
configuration.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 29

Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID

Your computer can be configured for RAID, even if you did not select a RAID configuration when the computer was purchased. For an explanation of RAID levels and their requirements, see "About RAID Configurations" on page 29. For information on how to install a hard drive, see "Hard Drives" on page 87.
To configure RAID hard drive volumes use the Nvidia MediaShield ROM utility before you install the operating system onto the hard drive.
Ensure that you set your computer to RAID-enabled mode before you begin.
Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode
1
Enter the system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 111).
2
Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight
3
Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the SATA operation, then press <Enter>.
4
Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight
NOTE: For more information about RAID options, see "System Setup Options" on page 112.
5
Press <Esc>, press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight
Drives
, then press <Enter>.
RAID On
, and then press <Enter>.
Save/Exit
, and then press <Enter> to
exit system setup and resume the boot process.

Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility

NOTICE: The following procedure will result in the loss of all data on your hard drive(s). Back up any data you want
to keep before continuing.
Hard drives of any size may be used to create a RAID configuration. Ideally, however, the drives should be of equal size to avoid unallocated or unused space. For an explanation of RAID levels and their requirements, see "About RAID Configurations" on page 29. For information on how to install a hard drive, see "Installing a Hard Drive" on page 88.
1
Enable RAID for each applicable hard drive on your computer (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID­Enabled Mode" on page 30).
2
Restart the computer.
3
Press <Ctrl><N> when prompted to enter the RAID BIOS.
NOTE: If the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop,
then shut down your computer and try again.
The
Define a New Array
4
Press <Tab> to navigate to the
window appears.
To create a RAID 1 configuration, use the arrow keys to select
5
Press <Tab> to navigate to the
30 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
RAID Mode
Free Disks
field.
field.
Mirroring
.
6
Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select a hard drive to include in the RAID array and then use the right-arrow key to move the selected drive from the
Free Disks
field to the
Array Disks
field. Repeat for
each disk you want to include in the RAID array.
NOTE: Your computer supports a maximum of two drives per RAID 1 array.
7
After assigning the hard drives to an array, press <F9>.
The
Clear disk data
NOTICE: You will lose all data on the selected drives in the next step.
8
Press <Y> to clear all data from the selected drives.
Array List
The
9
To review the details of the array that you set up, use the arrow keys to highlight the array in the
Array Detail
The
Array Detail
NOTE: To delete an array, use the arrow keys to select the array and press <D>.
10
Press <Enter> to return to the previous screen.
11
Press <Ctrl><X> to exit the RAID BIOS.
window and press <Enter>.
prompt appears.
window appears.
window appears.

Using Nvidia MediaShield

Nvidia MediaShield allows you to view and manage RAID configurations.
Rebuilding a RAID Configuration
If one of the hard drives in a RAID array fails, you can rebuild the array by restoring the data to a replacement drive.
NOTE: Rebuilding an array can only be performed on RAID 1 configurations.
1
Launch Nvidia MediaShield.
2
Click to select your RAID configuration (
3
Select
Rebuild Array
The
NVIDIA Rebuild Array Wizard
4
Click
Next
.
5
Select the hard drive you want to rebuild by clicking the checkbox beside it.
6
Click
Next
.
7
Click
Finish
.
in the
System Tasks
Mirroring
pane.
appears.
) in the management utility window.
The MediaShield RAID management utility window appears and displays the status of the rebuild process.
NOTE: You can use your computer while the computer is rebuilding the array.
NOTE: You can use any available (RAID-enabled) free disk to rebuild an array.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 31
32 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tips

Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer:
If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.
If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.
If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem.
If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.

Battery Problems

CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the battery
only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
REPLACE THE BATTERY If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on
the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 104). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 122).
Solving Problems 33

Drive Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE Click the Start button and click My
Computer. If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive, is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
ENSURE THAT THE DRIVE IS ENABLED IN THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 111)
TEST THE DRIVE
• Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.
• Insert bootable media and restart the computer.
CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 119.
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on
page 55.
RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 52.

CD and DVD drive problems

NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in
the drive or the CD or DVD.
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL
• Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
• Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.
• Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.
CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 46.
34 Solving Problems
Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive
CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the CD/DVD-RW.
TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Under
4
From the
Start
button and click
Pick a category
, click
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
or pick a Control Panel icon
Power Schemes
tab, select
, click
Power Options
Always On
.
.
.
.

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK
1
Click the
2
Right-click
3
Click
4
Click the
5
Under
6
Click
7
Click
Start
button and click
Local Disk C:
Properties
Tools
.
tab.
Error-checking
, click
My Computer
.
Check Now
.
.
Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors Start
.
.

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not operate while it is connected to
a digital telephone network.
CHECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS If you cannot open your e-mail attachments:
1
In Outlook Express, click
2
Click
Do not allow attachments
To ol s
, click
Options
to remove the checkmark.
, and then click
Security
.
Solving Problems 35
CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION
HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK —
C C
ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — SE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —
U
• 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 feel a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.
• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.
• If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Click the Start button, point to All Programs, and then click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)
VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Click
4
Click the
5
Click the COM port for your modem.
6
Click
Start
button and click
Control Panel Printers and Other Hardware Phone and Modem Options
Modems
Properties
tab.
, click the
Diagnostics
.
.
.
tab, and then click
Query Modem
to verify that the modem is
communicating with Windows. If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service provider.

Error Messages

If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in filenames.
36 Solving Problems
A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program:
1
Click the
2
Select the program you want to remove.
3
Click the
4
See the program documentation for installation instructions.
ALERT! AIR TEMPERATURE SENSOR NOT DETECTED — For any computer type except the ultra small form-factor computer, ensure that all cables are securely fastened to the I/O panel and to the system board and reboot your computer. If this does not resolve the problem or if you have an ultra small form-factor computer, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 122).
drive letter :\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY The drive cannot read the disk. Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.
NON-SYSTEM DISK ERROR Remove the floppy disk from the drive and restart your computer.
NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. CLOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN Close all
windows and open the program that you want to use. In some cases, you might have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.
Start
button, click
Change or Remove Program
Control Panel
, and then click
icon.
Add or Remove Programs
.
OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 122).

Keyboard Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE
• Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.
• Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 61), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer.
• Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins.
• Remove keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.
Solving Problems 37
TEST THE KEYBOARD — Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, and try using the keyboard.
ENSURE THAT THE USB PORTS ARE ENABLED IN THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM — See "System
Setup" on page 111)
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 55.

Lockups and Software Problems

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

The computer does not start up

CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 49.
ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE ELECTRICAL
OUTLET

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or
moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM
1
Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.
2
Click
Applications
3
Click the program that is no longer responding.
4
Click
End Task
38 Solving Problems
.
.

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

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

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so it runs in an environment similar to non­Windows XP operating system environments.
1
Click the
2
In the welcome screen, click
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Start
button, point to
All Programs→ Accessories
Next
.
, and then click
Program Compatibility Wizard

A solid blue screen appears

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

Other software problems

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR
TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION
• Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.
• Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information.
• Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
• Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.
• If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY
USE A VIRUS-SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE, FLOPPY DISKS, OR CDS
Solving Problems 39
SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER THROUGH THE
START MENU

Media Card Reader Problems

NO DRIVE LETTER IS ASSIGNED
When Microsoft Windows XP detects the Media Card Reader, the device is automatically assigned a drive letter as the next logical drive after all other physical drives in the system. If the next logical drive after the physical drives is mapped to a network drive, Windows XP does not automatically assign a drive letter to the Media Card Reader.
To manually assign a drive for the Media Card Reader:
1
Right-click
2
Select the
3
Right-click the corresponding drive letter in the right pane that needs to be changed.
4
Select
5
From the drop-down list, select the new drive letter assignment for the Media Card Reader.
6
Click OK to confirm your selection.
NOTE: The Media Card Reader only appears as a mapped drive when it is connected. Each of the four
Media Card Reader slots are mapped to a drive even if no media is installed. If you attempt to access the Media Card Reader when no media is inserted, you are prompted to insert media.
FLEXBAY DEVICE IS DISABLED
There is a FlexBay disable option in the BIOS setup that appears only when the FlexBay device is installed. If the FlexBay device is physically installed, but it is not running, check to see if it is enabled in the BIOS setup.
My Computer
Disk Management
Drive Letter and Paths.
and select
option.
Manage
.
40 Solving Problems

Memory Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE
• Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem.
• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (see "Installing Memory" on page 68).
• Reseat the memory modules (see "Installing Memory" on page 68) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 52).
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS
• Reseat the memory modules (see "Installing Memory" on page 68) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Installing Memory" on page 68).
• Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 107.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 52).

Mouse Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
CLEAN THE MOUSE See "Mouse" on page 120 for instructions on cleaning the mouse.
CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE
1
Remove mouse extension cables, if used, and connect the mouse directly to the computer.
2
Reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.
Solving Problems 41
RESTART THE COMPUTER
1
Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the
2
Ty p e u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight
3
After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the on the setup diagram for your computer.
4
Start the computer.
ENSURE THAT THE USB PORTS ARE ENABLED IN THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 111)
TEST THE MOUSE Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, and try using the mouse.
CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Try adjusting the settings.
REINSTALL THE MOUSE DRIVER See "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 54.
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"
on page 55.
Start
Mouse
button, click
.
Control Panel
, and then click
Start
menu.
Shut down
Printers and Other Hardware
or
Turn Off
, and then press <Enter>.
.

Network Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network port or device.
CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE BACK OF THE COMPUTER — If the link integrity light is off, that indicates no network communication exists. Replace the network cable. For a description of network lights, see "Controls and Lights" on page 109.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN
42 Solving Problems
CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 55.

Power Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS GREEN AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING — See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 49.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING GREEN — The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF — The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.
• Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.
• If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on. Also bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on properly.
• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 65).
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER A device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.
• Ensure that the 12-volt power connector (12V) is securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 65).
• Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see "Installing Memory" on page 68).
• Remove and then reinstall any cards (see "Cards" on page 70).
• Remove and then reinstall the graphics card, if applicable (see "PCI Express Cards" on page 76).
Solving Problems 43
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER — The computer is receiving electrical power, but an internal power problem might exist.
• Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location (if applicable). See "Back View of the Computer" on page 13.
• Ensure that the 12-volt power connector (12V) is securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 65).
ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE Some possible causes of interference are:
• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables
• Too many devices on a power strip
• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Printer Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s manufacturer.
CHECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION — See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.
ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON
CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS
• See the printer documentation for cable connection information.
• Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer (see "Setting Up a Printer" on page 15).
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
44 Solving Problems
VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS
1
Click the
2
Click If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.
3
Click
REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER See the printer documentation for instructions.
Start
button, click
View installed printers or fax printers
Properties
and click the
Control Panel
Ports
tab. Ensure that the
, and then click
.
Print to the following port(s):
Printers and Other Hardware
setting is
.
USB
.

Scanner Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer.
CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.
UNLOCK THE SCANNER Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
• See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.
• Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.
VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS
1
Click the
2
Click If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.
REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER See the scanner documentation for instructions.
Start
button, click
Scanners and Cameras
Control Panel
.
, and then click
Printers and Other Hardware
.
Solving Problems 45

Sound and Speaker Problems

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

No sound from speakers

NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been listening
to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.
CHECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS — Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If you purchased a sound card, ensure that the speakers are connected to the card.
ENSURE THAT THE CORRECT AUDIO SOLUTION IS ENABLED IN THE BIOS SETUP PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 111.
ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.
DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.
REINSTALL THE SOUND DRIVER See "Manually Reinstalling Drivers" on page 54.
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"
on page 55.
46 Solving Problems

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see "Front View of the Computer" on page 11).
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.
ENSURE THAT THE CORRECT AUDIO SOLUTION IS ENABLED IN THE BIOS SETUP PROGRAM — See "System Setup" on page 111.

Video and Monitor Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.

If the screen is blank

CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION
• Ensure that the graphics cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer. If an optional video card is installed, check that the monitor cable is connected to the card, rather than
the video connector on the system board.
• If you are using a graphics extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is defective.
• Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine whether the power cable is defective.
• Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing pins.)
CHECK THE MONITOR POWER LIGHT — If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that the monitor is turned on. If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power. If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS — See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 49.
Solving Problems 47

If the screen is difficult to read

CHECK THE MONITOR SETTINGS — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE MONITOR — If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the monitor.
MOVE THE MONITOR AWAY FROM EXTERNAL POWER SOURCES — Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky." Turn off nearby devices to check for interference.
ROTATE THE MONITOR TO ELIMINATE SUNLIGHT GLARE AND POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE
ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Try different settings for
Start
Display
button, click
and click the
Screen resolution
Control Panel
Settings
tab.
, and then click
and
Color quality.
Appearance and Themes
.
48 Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tools

Diagnostic Lights

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4" on the front panel (see "Front View of the Computer" on page 11). When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. If the computer malfunctions, the color and sequence of the lights identify the problem.
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
The computer is in a normal "off" condition, or a possible pre-BIOS failure has occurred.
The diagnostic lights are not lit after the computer successfully boots to the operating system.
A possible processor failure has occurred.
Plug the computer into a working electrical outlet and press the power button.
Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 122).
Memory modules are detected, but a memory failure has occurred.
• If you have two or more memory modules installed, remove the modules, reinstall one module (see "Installing Memory" on page 68), and then restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, reinstall an additional module. Continue until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.
• If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Installing Memory" on page 68).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see
"Contacting Dell
" on page 122).
Troubleshooting Tools 49
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
A possible graphics card failure has occurred.
A possible floppy or hard drive failure has occurred.
• If the computer has a graphics card, remove the card, reinstall it (see "PCI Express Cards" on page 76), and then restart the computer.
• If the problem still exists, install a graphics card that you know works and restart the computer.
• If the problem persists or the computer has integrated graphics, contact Dell (see
"Contacting Dell
Reseat all power and data cables and restart the computer.
" on page 122).
A possible USB failure has occurred.
No memory modules are detected.
Memory modules are detected, but a memory configuration or compatibility error exists.
Reinstall all USB devices, check cable connections, and then restart the computer.
• If you have two or more memory modules installed, remove the modules, reinstall one module (see "Installing Memory" on page 68), and then restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, reinstall an additional module. Continue until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.
• If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Installing Memory" on page 68).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see
"Contacting Dell
• Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements exist (see "Memory Installation Guidelines" on page 66).
• Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your computer (see "Memory Installation Guidelines" on page 66).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see
"Contacting Dell
" on page 122).
" on page 122).
50 Troubleshooting Tools
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
Another failure has occurred.
After POST is complete, all four diagnostic lights turn green briefly before turning off to indicate normal operating condition.
• Ensure that the cables are properly connected to the system board from the hard drive, CD drive, and DVD drive (see "Drives" on page 85).
• If there is an error message on your screen identifying a problem with a device (such as the floppy drive or hard drive), check the device to ensure that it is functioning properly.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see
"Contacting Dell
None.
" on page 122).
Troubleshooting Tools 51

Dell Diagnostics

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on page 33 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.
1
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2
When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft page 61) and try again.
3
When the boot device list appears, highlight
4
When the Dell Diagnostics

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

1
After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the you want.
Option Function
Express Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes 10 to
Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically takes
Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you want
Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows
®
Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on
Boot to Utility Partition
Main Menu
20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly.
an hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically.
to run.
you to select a test based on the symptom of the problem you are having.
appears, select the test you want to run.
Main Menu
screen appears, click the button for the option
and press <Enter>.
2
If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.
If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 122).
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell, technical
support will ask for your Service Tag.
52 Troubleshooting Tools
3
If you run a test from the
Custom Test
or
Symptom Tree
option, click the applicable tab described in
the following table for more information.
Tab Function
Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered.
Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the problem
description.
Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for running the test.
Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from 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.
4
Close the test screen to return to the computer, close the
Main Menu
Main Menu
screen.
screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the

Drivers

What Is a Driver?

A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices require a driver program.
A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes.
Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation or configuration is needed.
Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft may need to install drivers if you:
Upgrade your operating system
Reinstall your operating system
Connect or install a new device
®
Windows® operating system. You

Identifying Drivers

If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.
Troubleshooting Tools 53
Windows XP
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Click
4
In the
5
Click
6
Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the
Start
button and click
Pick a Category
System
.
System Properties
Device Manager
Control Panel
, click
Performance and Maintenance
window, click the
Hardware
.
.
.
tab.
device icon.
If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver.

Reinstalling Drivers

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com provides approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you
install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.
Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback
If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.
1
Click the
2
Under
3
Click
4
In the
5
Click
6
Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click
7
Click the
8
Click
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver (see "Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 56).
Start
button and click
Pick a Category
System
.
System Properties
Device Manager
Drivers
tab.
Roll Back Driver
Control Panel
, click
Performance and Maintenance
window, click the
Hardware
.
.
.
.
tab.
Properties
.
Manually Reinstalling Drivers
1
After copying the required driver files to your hard drive, click the
My Computer
2
Click
Properties
3
Click the
4
Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver.
.
.
Hardware
54 Troubleshooting Tools
tab and click
Device Manager
Start
button and right-click
.
5
Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
6
Click the
7
Click
8
Click
9
When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click
10
Click
Driver
tab and click
Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)
Browse
and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.
Finish
and restart your computer.
Update Driver
.
and click
Next
Next
.
.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1
Click the
2
Ty p e
3
Click
4
In the click
Start
button and click
hardware troubleshooter
Hardware Troubleshooter
Hardware Troubleshooter
Next
.
Help and Support
in the
list, click
.
in the
Search
field and click the arrow to start the search.
Search Results
I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer
list.
, and

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:
Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your operating system and preserving data files.
Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications installed after you received the computer. Use PC Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
If you received
system. Use the CD
an
Operating System
only
if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
CD with your computer, you can use it to restore your operating
Troubleshooting Tools 55

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access the Windows Help and Support Center, see "Finding Information" on page 9.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you
set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.
Creating a Restore Point
1
Click the
2
Click the task for
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see "Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback" on page 54) to resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any
open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1
Click the
System Restore
2
Ensure that
3
Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
The All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.
Start
button and click
System Restore
Start
button, point to
.
Restore my computer to an earlier time
Select a Restore Point
Help and Support
.
.
All Programs→
Accessories→
System Tools
is selected and click
, and then click
Next
.
screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points.
4
Select a restore point and click
Next
.
If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected. If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.
5
Click
Next
.
The
Restoration Complete
screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the
computer restarts.
6
After the computer restarts, click OK.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can undo the restoration.
56 Troubleshooting Tools
Undoing the Last System Restore
NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not
alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1
Click the
System Restore
2
Click
Enabling System Restore
Start
button, point to
.
Undo my last restoration
All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools
and click
Next
.
, and then click
If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:
1
Click the
2
Click
3
Click
4
Click the
5
Ensure that
Start
button and click
Control Panel
Performance and Maintenance
System
.
System Restore
tab.
Turn off System Restore
.
.
is unchecked.

Using Dell PC Restore

NOTICE: Using Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications or
drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using PC Restore. Use PC Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
NOTE: Dell PC Restore is not available in all countries or on all computers.
Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system. PC Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer—including data files—are permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data before using PC Restore.
To use PC Restore:
1
Turn on the computer.
During the boot process, a blue bar with
www.dell.com
appears at the top of the screen.
2
Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press <Ctrl><F11>.
If you do not press <Ctrl><F11> in time, let the computer finish starting, and then restart the computer again.
NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the following step.
3
On the next screen that appears, click
4
On the next screen, click
Confirm
.
Restore
.
The restore process takes approximately 6–10 minutes to complete.
Troubleshooting Tools 57
5
When prompted, click
NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot.
6
When prompted, click
Finish
to reboot the computer.
Yes
.
The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the screens that appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that appeared the first time the computer was turned on.
7
Click
Next
.
System Restore
The
8
After the computer restarts, click OK.
Removing Dell PC Restore
NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from your
computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your computer’s operating system.
screen appears and the computer restarts.
Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your computer, even to gain additional hard-drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard drive, you cannot ever recall it, and you will never be able to use PC Restore to return your computer’s operating system to its original state.
To remove PC Restore:
1
Log on to the computer as a local administrator.
2
In Windows Explorer, go to
3
Double-click the filename
c:\dell\utilities\DSR
DSRIRRemv2.exe
.
.
NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator, a message appears stating that you must log on as
administrator. Click Quit, and then log on as a local administrator.
NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer’s hard drive, a message appears
stating that the partition was not found. Click Quit; there is no partition to delete.
4
Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.
5
Click
Yes
when a confirmation message appears.
The PC Restore partition is deleted and the newly available disk space is added to the free space allocation on the hard drive.
6
Right-click
Local Disk (C)
space is available as indicated by the increased value for
7
Click
Finish
to close the
8
Restart the computer.
58 Troubleshooting Tools
in Windows Explorer, click
PC Restore Removal
window.
Properties
Free Space
, and verify that the additional disk
.

Using the Operating System CD

Before You Begin
If you are considering a reinstall of the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback (see "Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback" on page 54). If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver (see "Using Microsoft
NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For conventional
hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.
To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:
•Dell
Operating System
•Dell ResourceCD
NOTE: The ResourceCD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer. Use the
ResourceCD to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from where you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the CDs, the Drivers and Utilities CD and Operating System CD may not ship with your system.
Reinstalling Windows XP
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files
and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.
1
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2
Insert the
3
Restart the computer.
4
Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
Operating System
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again.
Windows XP System Restore" on page 56).
CD
CD. Click
Exit
if the
Install Windows XP
message appears.
5
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
Troubleshooting Tools 59
60 Troubleshooting Tools

Removing and Installing Parts

Before You Begin

This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:
You have performed the steps in Turning Off Your Computer and Before Working Inside Your Computer.
You have read the safety information in your Dell™
A component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.

Recommended Tools

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
Small flat-blade screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Flash BIOS executable update program on
support.dell.com

Turning Off Your Computer

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off
your computer.
1
Shut down the operating system:
a
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the
Turn Off Computer
b
In the
Turn off computer
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.
.
window, click
Turn o f f
Product Information Guide.
.
Start
button, and then click
.
2
Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.
Removing and Installing Parts 61

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help ensure your own personal safety.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a
card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.
NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing
that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.
NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself.
Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.
1
Turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 61).
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the
network device.
2
Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
3
Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.
4
Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 63).
NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface,
such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.
62 Removing and Installing Parts

Removing the Computer Cover

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the removed cover.
NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the computer or the
surface on which it is resting.
2
Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up.
3
Pull back the cover latch release located on the top panel.
1
2
3
4
1 cover latch release 2 computer cover 3 back of computer
4 bottom hinge tabs
Removing and Installing Parts 63
4
Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up, using the bottom hinge tabs as leverage points.
5
Release the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside in a secure location.

Inside View of Your Computer

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
3
2
*1
*May not be present on all computers.
1 floppy drive or Media Reader 2 CD or DVD drive 3 power supply
4 system board 5 hard drive
4
5
64 Removing and Installing Parts

System Board Components

1
22
21
20
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
19
18
15
16
17
1 fan connector (FAN_CPU1) 2 processor socket (CPU) 3 memory module connectors
4 power connector
(PW_12V_A1)
7 front-panel connector
(FRONTPANEL)
10 USB connectors (2)
(USB2_BACK1)
14
13
5 serial ATA drive connectors
(SATA2, SATA3)
8 power connector (POWER1) 9 line-in, line-out, microphone, side
11 network connector and USB
connectors (2) (NIC_USB1)
12
11
10
(DIMM_1, DIMM_2, DIMM_3, DIMM_4)
6 serial ATA drive connectors
(SATA0, SATA1)
surround, center, and LFE connectors (AUDIO_6_STACK)
12 real-time clock reset jumper
(RTCRST)
Removing and Installing Parts 65
9
13 video connector (VIDEO1) 14 battery socket (BT1) 15 Internal USB connector (USB1)
16 PCI Express x16 connector
(SLOT1)
19 PCI connector (SLOT3) 20 PCI connector (SLOT4) 21 password jumper (PSWD)
22 floppy drive connector
(FLOPPY1)
17 standby power indicator
(AUX_PWR_LED)
18 PCI Express x1 connector (SLOT2)

Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For additional information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 107.
NOTICE: Do not install ECC or buffered memory modules. Only unbuffered, non-ECC memory is supported.

Memory Installation Guidelines

DIMM connectors must be populated in numerical order beginning with connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2, then connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4.
If a single DIMM is installed, you must install it in connector DIMM_1.
For best performance, memory modules should be installed in
technology
. If the memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. (See the label on the module to determine the module’s capacity.) For example, if you install a mixed pair of DDR2 533-MHz and DDR2 667-MHz memory, the modules function at the slowest speed installed.
66 Removing and Installing Parts
pairs of matched memory size, speed, and
2
1
1 Channel A: matched pair of memory
modules in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 (white securing clips)
NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them
separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in DIMM connectors 1 and 2 or DIMM connectors 3 and 4.
NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.
2 Channel B: matched pair of memory
modules in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4 (black securing clips)

Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations

Your computer supports a maximum of 4 GB of memory when you use four 1-GB DIMMs. Current 32-bit operating systems, such as Microsoft space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is less than that installed. Certain components within the computer require address space in the 4-GB range. Any address space reserved for these components cannot be used by computer memory.
®
Windows® XP, can use a maximum of 4 GB of address
Removing and Installing Parts 67

Installing Memory

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your
body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Press the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
1
2
3
1 memory connector farthest
from processor (DIMM_1)
3
Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.
1 cutouts (2) 2 memory module 3 notch
4 crossbar
2 securing clips (2) 3 connector
3
2
1
4
68 Removing and Installing Parts
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector while you
apply equal force to each end of the module.
4
Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the module.
5
Replace the computer cover.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the
computer.
6
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
7
Right-click the
8
Click the
9
To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.
My Computer
General
tab.
icon and click
Properties
.

Removing Memory

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your
body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
3 Grasp the module at the end of the board and lift up.
Removing and Installing Parts 69

Cards

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your
body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards:
One PCI Express x16 card slot (SLOT1)
One PCI Express x1 card slot (SLOT2)
Two PCI card slots (SLOT3, SLOT4)
See "System Board Components" on page 65 for card slot location.

PCI Cards

Your computer supports two PCI cards.
If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section.
If you are removing but not replacing a PCI card, see "Removing a PCI Card" on page 75.
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, see "Installing a PCI Express Card" on page 76.
70 Removing and Installing Parts
Installing a PCI Card
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
1
2
1 release tab 2 card retention door
2
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.
3
If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 5.
4
If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.
5
Prepare the card for installation.
See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.
CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a network.
To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.
Removing and Installing Parts 71
6
3
Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.
4
2
1
1 alignment bar 2 fully-seated card 3 not fully seated card
4 alignment guide 5 bracket within slot 6 bracket caught outside of slot
7
Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:
5
6
The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.
The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.
72 Removing and Installing Parts
1
2
3
4
1 alignment guide 2 alignment bar 3 release tab
4 card retention door
8
Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the cards.
NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the
computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.
9
Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
See the documentation for the card for information about the card’s cable connections.
Removing and Installing Parts 73
2
3
4
1
1 front I/O panel connector 2 jumper 3 sound card cable
4 sound card connector
If you are installing a sound card, remove the jumper on the end of the front I/O panel. Then connect one end of the cable to the sound card and the other end of the cable to the connection on the front I/O panel from which you removed the jumper.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the
computer.
10
Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
11
If you installed a sound card:
a
Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111), go to
Integrated Audio
b
Connect external audio devices to the sound card’s connectors. Do not connect external audio
, and then change the setting to
Off
Onboard Devices
.
devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel. See "Back Panel Connectors" on page 14.
74 Removing and Installing Parts
and select
12
If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter:
a
Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111), go to
Integrated NIC,
b
Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter’s connectors. Do not connect the
and then change the setting to
Off
.
Onboard Devices
and select
network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel. See "Back Panel Connectors" on page 14.
13
Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
Removing a PCI Card
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.
3
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners and ease it out of its connector. If a sound card is removed, a jumper should be installed on the Front IO card audio connector.
4
If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening.
NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the
computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.
5
Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the cards.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the
computer.
6
Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
7
Remove the card’s driver from the operating system.
8
If you removed a sound card:
a
Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111), go to
Integrated Audio
b
Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer. See
, and then change the setting to On.
Onboard Devices
and select
"Back Panel Connectors" on page 14.
9
If you removed an add-in network connector:
a
Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111), go to
Integrated NIC
b
Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the computer. See
, and then change the setting to On.
Onboard Devices
and select
"Back Panel Connectors" on page 14.
Removing and Installing Parts 75

PCI Express Cards

1
Your computer supports one PCI Express x16 card and one PCI Express x1 card.
If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, follow the procedures in the next section.
If you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing a PCI Express Card" on page 80.
If you are installing or replacing a PCI card, see "Installing a PCI Card" on page 71.
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
Installing a PCI Express Card
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 63).
2
3
1 card retention door 2 card retention mechanism 3 release tabs (2)
3
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. The door is hinged and will remain in the open position (see "Installing a PCI Card" on page 71 for an illustration of the card retention door).
4
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the x16 card in place from the top:
a
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.
b
Set the retention mechanism aside.
5
If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening, then continue with step 7.
76 Removing and Installing Parts
6
If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.
Disconnect any cables connected to the card. Gently pull the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out of its connector.
3
1
5
1 PCI Express x16 card 2 securing tab 3 PCI Express x1 card
4 PCI Express x1 card slot 5 PCI Express x16 card slot
7
Prepare the card for installation.
2
4
See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.
CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a network. To
guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.
8
If you are installing the card into the x16 card connector, position the card so the securing slot is aligned with the securing tab.
Removing and Installing Parts 77
9
3
Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.
4
2
1
1 alignment bar 2 fully seated card 3 not fully seated card
4 alignment guide 5 bracket within slot 6 bracket caught outside of slot
10
If you replaced a card that was already installed in the computer and you removed the retention
5
6
mechanism, reinstall the retention mechanism:
Before replacing the card retention mechanism, ensure that:
The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.
The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.
Snap the card retention mechanism into place, securing the x16 PCI card.
78 Removing and Installing Parts
1
1
2
3
1 card retention door 2 card retention mechanism 3 release tabs (2)
NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the
computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.
11
Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:
The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.
The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.
2
3
4
1 alignment guide 2 alignment bar 3 release tab
4 card retention door
Removing and Installing Parts 79
12
Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the cards.
13
Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
See the documentation for the card for information about the card’s cable connections.
14
Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
15
If you installed a sound card:
a
Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111), go to
Integrated Audio
b
Connect external audio devices to the sound card’s connectors. Do not connect external audio
, and then change the setting to
Off
Onboard Devices
.
and select
devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel. See "Back Panel Connectors" on page 14.
16
If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter:
a
Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111), go to
Integrated NIC
b
Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter’s connectors. Do not connect the
, and then change the setting to
Off
.
Onboard Devices
and select
network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel. See "Back Panel Connectors" on page 14.
17
Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
Removing a PCI Express Card
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position (see "Installing a PCI Card" on page 71 for an illustration of the card retention door).
3
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism, to secure the x16 card in place from the top:
a
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.
b
Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.
4
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Gently pull the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out of its connectors.
5
If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening.
NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the
computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.
6
Reseat the card retention mechanism in the tabs and pivot downward to snap it into place.
80 Removing and Installing Parts
7
Close the card retention door to snap it into place, securing the cards.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the
computer.
8
Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
9
Remove the card’s driver from the operating system.
10
If you removed a sound card:
a
Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111), go to
Integrated Audio
b
Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer. See
, and then change the setting to
On
Onboard Devices
and select
"Back Panel Connectors" on page 14.
11
If you removed an add-in network connector:
a
Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111), go to
Integrated NIC
b
Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the computer. See
, and then change the setting to On.
Onboard Devices
and select
"Back Panel Connectors" on page 14.

Drive Panel

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.

Removing the Drive Panel

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 63).
Removing and Installing Parts 81
1
2
3
4
1 sliding plate lever 2 sliding plate 3 drive panel
4 side hinges
3
Grasping the lever on the sliding plate, pull the sliding plate to the right until it snaps into the open position.
NOTE: This sliding plate secures and releases the drive panel and helps to secure the drives.
4
By pushing from the inside and pivoting the drive panel to the left, you can release the drive panel from its side hinges.
5
Set the drive panel aside.
82 Removing and Installing Parts

Removing the Drive-Panel Insert

2
1
3
1 drive panel 2 drive-panel insert tab 3 drive-panel insert
1
Pull the drive-panel insert tab away from the drive panel insert to disengage the insert from the drive panel.
2
Without releasing the tab, pivot the drive-panel insert out and away from the drive panel.
3
Set the drive-panel insert aside in a secure location.

Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert

2
1
1 center drive-panel tab 2 drive panel 3 drive-panel insert tab
4 drive-panel insert
3
4
Removing and Installing Parts 83
1
Slide the tab on the left side of the drive-panel insert under the center drive-panel tab.
2
Rotate the drive-panel insert into place and snap the drive-panel insert tab over the corresponding tab on the drive panel.

Replacing the Drive Panel

1
Align the drive panel tabs with the side hinges.
1
2
3
4
5
1 sliding plate lever 2 sliding plate 3 drive panel
4 drive panel tabs (3) 5 side hinges
2
Rotate the drive panel toward the computer until it snaps into place on the front panel.
84 Removing and Installing Parts

Drives

Your computer supports a combination of these devices:
Up to two serial ATA hard drives
One optional floppy drive or an optional Media Card Reader
Up to two CD or DVD drives
1
2
3
1 CD/DVD drive 2 FlexBay for optional floppy
drive or Media Card Reader
3 hard drive

Recommended Drive Cable Connections

Connect serial ATA hard drives to connectors labeled "SATA0" or "SATA1" on the system board.
Connect serial ATA CD or DVD drives to connectors labeled "SATA2" or "SATA3" on the system board.
Removing and Installing Parts 85

Connecting Drive Cables

When you install a drive, you connect two cables—a DC power cable and a data cable—to the back of the drive.
Power Connector
1
2
1 power cable 2 power input connector

Drive Interface Connectors

The drive cable connectors are keyed for correct insertion. Properly align the cable connector key on the cable and the drive before connecting.
Serial ATA Connector
1
2
1 interface cable 2 interface connector

Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables

When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA data cable, disconnect the cable using the pull-tab.
The serial ATA interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector.
86 Removing and Installing Parts

Hard Drives

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as
a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
NOTICE: If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data you want to keep, back up your files before you begin
this procedure.
Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

Removing a Hard Drive

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Disconnect the power and data cables from the drive.
NOTICE: Use the pull-tab to remove the data cable from your hard drive.
1
2
1 power cable 2 serial ATA data cable
Removing and Installing Parts 87
3
Press in on the blue tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out of the computer.
1
2
1 tabs (2) 2 hard drive
4
If removing this drive changes the drive configuration, then be sure to reflect these changes in system setup. When you restart your computer, enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111), then go to the "Drives" section of the System Setup and under
Drive 0 through 3
, set the Drive to the correct
configuration.
5
Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 105).
6
Connect computer and other devices to an electrical outlet.

Installing a Hard Drive

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 63).
3
Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
NOTE: If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard drive bracket attached, remove the bracket from the
old drive by unsnapping it from the drive. Snap the bracket onto the new drive.
88 Removing and Installing Parts
1
2
1 drive 2 hard-drive bracket
4
Align the hard drive bracket with the guides in the hard drive bay.
1
2
3
1 hard-drive bracket 2 hard drive 3 guide in hard-drive bay
5
Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or the drive is securely installed. Take care not to let the drive free-fall into the drive bay.
6
Connect the power and data cables to the drive.
Removing and Installing Parts 89
1
2
1 serial ATA data cable 2 power cable
7
Check all cables to be certain that they are properly connected and firmly seated.
8
Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 105).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the
computer.
9
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
10
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
11
Check the System Setup for drive configuration changes (see "Entering System Setup" on page 111).
90 Removing and Installing Parts

Adding a Second Hard Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as
a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
1
Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
2
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
3
Press in on the blue release tabs on each side of the hard drive bracket and slide it up and out of the computer.
4
Snap the bracket to the hard drive (see "Installing a Hard Drive" on page 88).
5
Align the hard drive bracket with the guides in the hard drive bay.
6
Gently slide the new drive (second hard drive) into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed. Take care not to let the drive free-fall into the drive bay.
1
2
3
4
1 release tabs (2) 2 second hard drive in lower bay 3 hard drive bay
4 primary hard drive in upper bay
7
Connect the power and data cables to the drive (see "Connecting Drive Cables" on page 86).
8
Connect the other end of the data cable to the SATA connector on the system board labeled
SATA1
(see "System Board Components" on page 65).
9
Check all cables to be certain that they are properly connected and firmly seated.
Removing and Installing Parts 91
SATA0
or
10
Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 105).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the
computer.
11
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
12
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.

Floppy Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.
NOTE: If you are adding a floppy drive, see "Installing a Floppy Drive" on page 94.

Removing a Floppy Drive

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Remove the drive panel (see "Removing the Drive Panel" on page 81).
1
1 power cable 2 data cable
92 Removing and Installing Parts
2
3
Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive.
NOTE: If you have installed a PCI Express x16 card, this card may cover the floppy-drive connectors. Remove this
card before disconnecting the floppy-drive cables
4
Slide the drive latch release toward the bottom of the computer and, without releasing the drive latch
(see "Removing a PCI Express Card
" on page 80
)
release, slide the floppy drive out through the front of the computer.
1
2
3
1 drive latch release 2 sliding plate 3 floppy drive
5
If you are not replacing the drive, reinstall the drive panel insert (see "Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert" on page 83).
6
Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 105).
7
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
8 Check the System Step for the appropriate diskette Drive Option changes
page 111
).
(see "Entering System Setup
Removing and Installing Parts 93
" on

Installing a Floppy Drive

NOTE: In the event that the replacement or new floppy drive does not have shoulder screws, check for the screws
located within the drive panel insert or, if applicable, reuse screws attached to the drive that you are replacing.
1
2
1 drive 2 screws (4)
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Remove the drive panel (see "Removing the Drive Panel" on page 81).
3
Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.
NOTE: If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the drive panel insert where
you want the drive to be installed, insert the shoulder screws located in the back of the drive panel insert into the drive, and then slide the drive back into place.
4
Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive.
5
Connect the other end of the data cable to the connector labeled "FLOPPY1" on the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 65) and route the cable through the clip on the shroud.
94 Removing and Installing Parts
1
2
1 power cable 2 data cable
6
If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the appropriate drive-panel insert (see "Removing the Drive-Panel Insert" on page 83).
7
Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to avoid blocking airflow between the fan and cooling vents.
8
Replace the drive panel (see "Replacing the Drive Panel" on page 84).
9
Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 105).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the
computer.
10
Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
11
Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 111) and select the appropriate
12
Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on
Diskette Drive
page 52).
Removing and Installing Parts 95
option.

Media Card Reader

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.

Removing a Media Card Reader

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Remove the drive panel (see "Removing the Drive Panel" on page 81).
2
*1
*
Not present on all computers.
1 Media Card Reader 2 cable
96 Removing and Installing Parts
3
1
Disconnect the FlexBay USB cable from the back of the Media Card Reader and from the internal USB connector on the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 65) and remove the cable from the cable routing clip.
2
3
1 drive latch release 2 sliding plate 3 Media Card Reader
4
Slide the drive latch release toward the bottom of the computer and, without releasing the drive latch release, slide the Media Card Reader out through the front of the computer.
5
If you are not replacing the Media Card Reader, reinstall the drive panel insert, as needed (see "Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert" on page 83).
6
Replace the drive panel (see "Replacing the Drive Panel" on page 84).
7
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
Removing and Installing Parts 97

Installing a Media Card Reader

NOTE: In the event that the replacement or new Media Card Reader does not have shoulder screws, use the
screws located within the drive panel insert. Otherwise, reuse the screws attached to the card reader that you are replacing.
1
2
1 Media Card Reader 2 screws (4)
1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Remove the drive panel (see "Removing the Drive Panel" on page 81).
3
If this is a new card reader installation:
Remove the drive panel insert (see "Removing the Drive-Panel Insert" on page 83). Remove the
four shoulder screws from the drive panel insert.
Remove the Media Card Reader from its packaging.
Remove the shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel insert and attach the screws to the
new Media Card Reader.
4
Gently slide the Media Card Reader into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.
Ensure that the Media Card Reader is installed before the FlexBay cable is connected.
5
Connect the USB cable to the back of the Media Card Reader and to the USB connector on the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 65).
98 Removing and Installing Parts
6
Connect the FlexBay USB cable to the back of the Media Card Reader and to the internal USB connector on the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 65).
2
1
1 Media Card Reader 2 USB cable 3 USB connector
7
Route the FlexBay USB cable through the cable routing clip.
8
Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 105).
9
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
3
Removing and Installing Parts 99

CD/DVD Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before
removing the cover.

Removing a CD/DVD Drive

1
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 61.
2
Remove the drive panel (see "Removing the Drive Panel" on page 81).
3
Disconnect the power cable and the CD/DVD drive data cable from the back of the drive and the system board.
1
2
1 power cable 2 data cable
100 Removing and Installing Parts
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