Dell Vostro 1000 User Manual

Download

Page 1

Dell™ Vostro™ 1000 Owner’s Manual

Model PP23LB

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Page 2

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

your computer.

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

and tells you how to avoid the problem.

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

or death.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see "Glossary" on page 185.

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Vostro, and Strike Zone are trademarks of Dell Inc.;

Microsoft, Outlook, Vista, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; AMD, Sempron, Turion, and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced Micro De vices, Inc.; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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

Model PP23LB

October 2007 P/N WY122 Rev. A01

Page 3

1 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

2 About Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Determining Your Computer’s Configuration . . . . . . 19

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

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

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

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

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

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

3 Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft

Microsoft Windows Vista

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . 31

. . . . . . 33

Contents 3

Page 4

Power Protection Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

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

. . . . . . . . . . 39

4 Using the Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Adjusting Brightness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Using a Projector

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper

Microsoft

Windows Vista

Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display

Microsoft

Windows Vista

Using a Monitor as Your Primary Display

Microsoft Windows XP

Windows Vista

Using Catalyst

Launching Catalyst Control Center

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

. . . . 41

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

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

. . . 43

Windows® XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

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

. . . . . . . . 44

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

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

Control Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

. . . . . . . . . 46

5 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad. . . . 47

Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Key Combinations

System Functions

Battery

CD or DVD Tray

Display Functions

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

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

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

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

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

4 Contents

Page 5

Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Speaker Functions

Microsoft

Adjusting Keyboard Settings

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

Windows® Logo Key Functions . . . . 49

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

Touch Pad

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

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

6 Using a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Battery Performance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Checking the Battery Charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft

Charge Gauge

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Windows® Power Meter . . . . . . . 55

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

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

Power Management Modes

Configuring Power Management Settings

Accessing Power Options Properties

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . 58

. . . . . . . 58

7 Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Playing a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Adjusting the Picture

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

Contents 5

Page 6

Copying CDs and DVDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

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

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

8 Using Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

ExpressCards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

ExpressCard Blanks

Installing an ExpressCard

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

Media Memory Cards

Installing a Media Memory Card

Removing a Media Memory Card

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

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

. . . . . . . . 71

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

. . . . . . . . . . 72

. . . . . . . . . . 73

9 Setting Up and Using Networks . . . . . . 75

Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista

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

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

XP Operating System . . . . . . . . . . 76

Operating System. . . . . . . . . 76

6 Contents

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

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

. . . . . . . . . 77

Page 7

Checking Your Wireless Network Card. . . . . . . 77

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

Connecting to a WLAN

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

. . . . . . . . . . 78

Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network

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

Card

Mobile Broadband/Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

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

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

. . . . . . . . . . 82

. . . . 83

Microsoft

Windows® Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

10 Securing Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Passwords

Computer Tracking Software

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

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

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

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

11 Adding and Replacing Parts . . . . . . . . . . 89

Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Recommended Tools

Turning Off Your Computer

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Optical Drive

Hard Drive

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

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

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

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

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

. . . . . . . 90

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

Contents 7

Page 8

Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Modem

Hinge Cover

Keyboard

Wireless Mini-Card

Coin-Cell Battery

Display

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

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

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

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

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

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

12 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Dell Technical Update Service . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Dell Diagnostics

Dell Support Center

Dell Support

Dell PC TuneUp

Dell PC Checkup

Dell Network Assistant

DellConnect

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

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

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

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

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

8 Contents

Drive Problems

Optical drive problems

Hard drive problems

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

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

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

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

ExpressCard Problems

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

. . . . . . . . 121

Page 9

Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

External Keyboard problems

Unexpected characters

. . . . . . . . . . . . 129

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

Lockups and Software Problems

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

The computer does not start

The computer stops responding

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly

A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft

A solid blue screen appears

Dell MediaDirect problems

Finding Information

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

computer. Some features or media may not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• My computer documentation

• My device documentation

• Notebook System Software (NSS)

Drivers and Utilities Media

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the media to reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 144). To run the Dell Diagnostics, see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 111.

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

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates

can be found at support.dell.com.

Finding Information 13

Page 14

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

Setup Diagram

NOTE: See the setup diagram that came

with your computer.

14 Finding Information

Page 15

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License

NOTE: Your computer’s Service Tag and

Microsoft located on your computer.

Your computer’s Service Tag contains both a Service Tag number and an Express Service Code.

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

support.dell.com

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

• Use the product key on the License Label if you need to reinstall your operating system.

NOTE: As an increased security measure,

the newly designed Microsoft Windows license label incorporates a missing portion or "hole" to discourage removal of the label.

Windows® License labels are

or contact support.

Finding Information 15

Page 16

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

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

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

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

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

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates

• How to find information about my computer and its components

• How to connect to the Internet

• How to add user accounts for different people

• How to transfer files and settings from another computer

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business

segment to view the appropriate support site.

Windows Welcome Center (Microsoft Windows Vista

The Windows Welcome Center automatically appears when you use the computer for the first time. You can choose to have it appear every time you start your computer by placing a check in the Run at startup checkbox. Another method of accessing the Welcome Center is to click the Windows Vista Start button

, and then click Welcome Center.

)

16 Finding Information

Page 17

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Notebook System Software (NSS)— If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the NSS utility. NSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for processors, optical drives, USB devices, and so on. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration.

• How to use the Windows operating system

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

To download Notebook System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

Drivers & Downloads.

Enter your Service Tag or Product Type and Product Model, and click

Scroll to

Utilities Software

Select click

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface

may vary depending on your selections.

Windows Help and Support Center

Microsoft Windows XP:

Click the

and Support

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

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Microsoft Windows Vista:

Click the Windows Vista Start button

, and then click

Search Help

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

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

and click

System and Configuration

→

Dell Notebook System

and click

Drivers & Downloads

Download Now

and

Start

button and click

box, click the

Help and Support

, type a word or phrase

Help

Finding Information 17

Page 18

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to reinstall my operating system

Operating System Media

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

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

PC Restore

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

•

Operating System

received an with your computer, you can use it to restore your operating system.

For more information, see "Restoring Your Microsoft System" on page 148 or "Restoring Your Microsoft System" on page 153.

After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities media (see "Drivers" on page 143) to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

System Restore System Restore

— Dell

PC Restore

may not

media — If you

Operating System

Windows Vista® Operating

Windows® XP Operating

media

—

18 Finding Information

Page 19

About Your Computer

Determining Your Computer’s Configuration

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

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

Under

Pick a Task

and diagnose problems.

Under

My Computer Information

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

"Windows Help and Support Center

, click

Use Tools to view your computer information

, select

Hardware

" on page 17.

About Your Computer 19

Page 20

Front View

1 display latch release 2 display latches (2) 3 display

4 power button 5 device status lights 6 touch pad

7 speakers (2) 8 touch pad buttons 9 keyboard

10 keyboard and wireless

status lights

20 About Your Computer

Page 21

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

DISPLAY LATCHES — Keep the display closed.

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

page 41.

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

a power management mode. See "Power Management Modes" on page 56.

DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS

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

Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the

light is flashing.

Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.

About Your Computer 21

Page 22

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

• Solid green: The battery is charging.

• Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged.

If the computer is running on a battery, the light operates as follows:

• Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off).

• Flashing orange: The battery charge is low.

• Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low.

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

indicates scrolling capabilities.

SPEAKERS — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the media

control buttons or speaker-volume keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Speaker Functions" on page 49.

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

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

Windows logo key. For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Key Combinations" on page 48.

22 About Your Computer

Page 23

KEYBOARD AND WIRELESS STATUS LIGHTS

The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:

Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.

Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.

Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

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

About Your Computer 23

Page 24

Left Side View

3241

1 air vent 2 security cable slot 3 optical drive bay

4 optical-drive-tray eject

button

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

vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

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

prevents the computer from overheating.

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

security cable slot.

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

to the computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device.

24 About Your Computer

Page 25

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

drive in the optical drive bay. For more information, see "Optical Drive" on page 92.

OPTICAL-DRIVE-TRAY EJECT BUTTON — Press this button to eject a CD or DVD

from the optical drive.

Right Side View

34 521

1 hard drive 2 ExpressCard slot 3 3-in-1 media memory

card reader

4 audio connectors (2) 5 USB connectors (2)

About Your Computer 25

Page 26

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

page 92 and "Hard drive problems" on page 120.

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

plastic blank installed in the slot. You can add an ExpressCard to make WWAN connectivity available on your computer. For more information, see "Using Cards" on page 69.

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

and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card. The 3-in1 media memory card reader reads Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO and MultiMediaCard (MMC) digital media memory cards.

AUDIO CONNECTORS —

Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.

Attach a microphone to the connector.

USB

CONNECTORS

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

26 About Your Computer

directly to a

cable.

Page 27

Back View

1 4532

1 AC adapter connector 2 network connector

(RJ-45)

4 USB connectors (2) 5 video connector

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

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

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

3 modem connector

(RJ-11)

NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the

connector, not the cable itself, and pull firmly but gently to help prevent damage to the cable.

About Your Computer 27

Page 28

NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)

Connects the computer to a network. The green and yellow lights next to the connector indicate activity for wired network communications.

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

MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

To use the internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector.

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

NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To

help prevent damage to the computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network connector.

CONNECTORS

USB

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

directly to a

cable.

VIDEO

CONNECTOR

Connects an external VGA-compatible monitor.

28 About Your Computer

Page 29

Bottom View

31 2

1 battery charge gauge 2 device security screw 3 battery-bay latch

release

4 battery 5 hard drive 6 modem/memory

module cover

7fan

BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE — Provides information on the battery charge status. See

"Checking the Battery Charge" on page 54.

DEVICE SECURITY SCREW — Secures the optical drive in the optical drive bay. For

more information, see "Optical Drive" on page 92.

BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE — Releases the battery from the battery bay. See "Replacing

the Battery" on page 59.

About Your Computer 29

Page 30

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

connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. For more information, see "Using a Battery" on page 53.

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

page 92 and "Hard drive problems" on page 120.

MODEM/MEMORY MODULE COVER — Covers the compartment that contains the

modem and the memory modules. For more information, see "Modem" on page 98 and "Memory" on page 95.

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

the computer from overheating.

30 About Your Computer

Page 31

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

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

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

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut:

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

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

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

NOTE: 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 Your Computer 31

Page 32

Windows XP

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

Click

Start→

The

New Connection Wizard

Click

Connect to the Internet

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

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

list of Internet service providers (ISPs)

Internet Explorer

appears.

Choose from a

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

• If you have a CD, click

Click

If you selected

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

Set up my connection manually

, continue to step 6.

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

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

Click the appropriate option under

Internet?

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

, and then click

How do you want to connect to the

Windows Vista

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

the Internet wizard can help you get one.

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

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

The

Click either

Network and Internet,

Connect to the Internet

Broadband (PPPoE)

click

Connect to the Internet

window appears.

Dial-up

, depending on how you want

Control Panel

to connect:

• Choose

Broadband

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

modem, or Bluetooth wireless technology connection.

• Chose

Dial-up

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

32 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 33

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

or contact your ISP.

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

Transferring Information to a New Computer

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

Microsoft® Windows® XP

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

• E-mail messages

• Toolbar settings

• Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

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

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Computer 33

Page 34

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

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

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

and may not be included with certain computers.

To prepare a new computer for the file transfer:

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

When the click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

from the Windows XP CD

When the source computer. Do

Now go to your old computer

not

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

→ Next

screen appears, go to your old or

click

at this time.

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I will use the wizard

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

additional tasks

Under

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

What do you want to do?

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

, click

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you

Operating System

screen, click

media.

Perform

Transfer files and settings→Next

Old Computer→

prefer.

On the transfer and click

After the information has been copied, the

Phase

What do you want to transfer?

screen appears.

screen, select the items you want to

Completing the Collection

Click

Finish

34 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 35

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the chose for transferring your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

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

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

Finished

screen

appears.

Click

Finished

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

and restart the new computer.

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

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

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click

Accessories→ System Tools→

When the click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

Wizard Disk in the following drive

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

When the disk creation completes and the

computer

Go to the old computer.

message appears,

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

screen, click

→

Next.

do not

click

Start→

All Programs→

welcome screen appears,

New Computer→

I want to create a

Now go to your old

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

Click

Start→

Run

Setting Up Your Computer 35

Page 36

In the

Open

field in the

the appropriate removable media) and click

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

Run

window, browse to the path for

welcome screen, click

screen, click

Old Computer→

screen, click the transfer method you

fastwiz

prefer.

On the transfer and click

After the information has been copied, the

Phase

Click

What do you want to transfer?

screen appears.

Finish

screen, select the items you want to

Completing the Collection

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the chose for transferring your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you

. Follow the

instructions on the screen.

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

(on

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

Finished

appears.

Click

Finished

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

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

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

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

certain countries.

Microsoft Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click

and settings

and restart the new computer.

→ Start Windows Easy Transfer.

Windows® XP

36 Setting Up Your Computer

screen

Transfer files

Page 37

In the

User Account Control

Click

Start a new transfer

NOTE: Follow the instructions provided on the screen by the Windows Easy

Transfer wizard.

dialog box, click

Continue a transfer in progress

Continue

Setting Up a Printer

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

computer.

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

• Obtain and install updated drivers.

• Connect the printer to the computer.

• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.

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

Printer Cable

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

Connecting a USB Printer

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

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

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

Setting Up Your Computer 37

Page 38

1 USB connector on

computer

Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer.

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

2 USB printer cable 3 connector on printer

available to help you install the printer driver.

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

and the

Add New Hardware Wizard

window appears, click

If your computer is running the Windows Vista® operating system

Windows Vista Start button , and click start the

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

Add Printer Wizard

Network→Add a printer

with your printer.

38 Setting Up Your Computer

Cancel

, click the

Page 39

Power Protection Devices

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

• Surge protectors

• Line conditioners

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Surge Protectors

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

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

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

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

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

network cable from the network wall jack during electrical storms.

Line Conditioners

NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.

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

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in

data loss or file damage.

Setting Up Your Computer 39

Page 40

NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a

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

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

40 Setting Up Your Computer

Page 41

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

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

NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable

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

You can press the following keys to adjust display brightness:

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

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

Using a Projector

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

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

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper

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

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

Using the Display 41

Page 42

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

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

best performance with your Dell-installed operating system.

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

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

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Click

Start→

Under

Control Panel icon

In the

Try different settings for

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task…

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

, click

Display Properties

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Display

window, click the

Color quality

Settings

and

Screen resolution

or pick a

tab.

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

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

In the

Appearance and Personalization

Display Settings

window, under

Control Panel

, click

Adjust screen resolution

Resolution

, slide the slide bar to

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

Click

How do I get the best display?

for further instructions.

If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode. In pan mode, the entire video image cannot be displayed at one time, and the taskbar that usually appears at the bottom of

42 Using the Display

Page 43

the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the parts of the video image that are not visible, you can use the touch pad or track stick to "pan" (or move) the image up, down, left, and right.

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

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

Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display

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

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

Microsoft® Windows® XP

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

Click

Start→

Under

Control Panel icon

In the

Settings→

Pick a category

Pick a task...

Display Properties

, click

, click the area you want to change, or under

, click

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Display

window, click the

Settings

or pick a

tab.

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

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

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

Change

Apply

If prompted to restart the computer, click

without restarting

If prompted, click OK to resize your desktop.

Screen Area

Apply

to the appropriate sizes for both displays and click

and click OK.

Extend my Windows desktop...

Apply the new color setting

Using the Display 43

check

Page 44

If prompted, click

Click OK to close the

To disable dual independent display mode:

Click the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the

this monitor

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

Settings

Yes

to keep the settings.

Display Properties

tab in the

option, and then click

Display Properties

window.

Extend my Windows desktop onto

Apply

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

In the

the desktop onto this monitor

Click OK to close the

To disable extended desktop mode:

In the

Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the

monitor

Appearance and Personalization

Display Settings

option, and then click

window, click the monitor 2 icon, click the

check box, and then click

Display Settings

window, click the

Apply

Control Panel

, click

Adjust screen resolution

Apply

window.

Settings

Extend the desktop onto this

tab.

Extend

Using a Monitor as Your Primary Display

To swap your primary and secondary display designations (for example, to use your external monitor as your primary display after docking), perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.

Microsoft Windows XP

Click the

Under

Control Panel icon

Start

button and click

Pick a category

Pick a task...

, click the area you want to change, or under

, click

Control Panel

, click

Appearance and Themes

Display

or pick a

44 Using the Display

Page 45

Click the

See the documentation that came with your video card for additional information.

Settings

tab→

Advanced→

Displays

tab.

Windows Vista

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click

Under

Appearance and Personalization

In the

Display Settings

my main monitor

Click OK to close the

window, click the monitor 2 icon, click the

check box, and then click

Display Settings

, click

window.

Apply

Control Panel

Adjust screen resolution

This is

Using Catalyst® Control Center

The ATI Catalyst Control Center is a graphical user interface that provides easy access to display features contained within the installed ATI hardware and software. The Catalyst Control Center optimizes your graphics settings, enables or disables connected graphics devices, and changes the orientation of your desktop. Many of the features show you a preview of the changes before they are applied.

NOTE: Microsoft .NET 1.1 or 2.0 must be installed to support the full functionality of

the Catalyst Control Center.

The Catalyst Control Center provides two views of the software:

• Standard View is a simplified view that includes wizards to help the inexperienced user use the software.

• Advance View allows the advanced user to access and configure the complete feature set of the software.

You can customize the Catalyst Control Center for easy access to the features you use most.

Use the Catalyst Control Center to access a comprehensive online help system, or connect to the ATI web site for help.

Using the Display 45

Page 46

Launching Catalyst Control Center

You can launch Catalyst Control Center from any of the following access points:

• Windows Start menu

• Desktop shortcuts

• Predefined hot keys

Using the Start Menu

From the Windows task bar, click Start→ All Programs→ ATI Catalyst

→

Control Center

Using the Desktop Shortcut

When you install the Catalyst Control Center, the setup wizard provides an option to place a shortcut on the desktop. If you select this option, you can double-click the desktop shortcut to start the Catalyst Control Center.

Using Hot Keys

You can press the predefined combination of keys <Ctrl><Alt><c> to launch Catalyst Control Center, or you can define your own hot key sequence by using the Catalyst Control Center's Hotkey Manager.

ATI Catalyst Control Center.

46 Using the Display

Page 47

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

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

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

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

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 47

Page 48

Key Combinations

System Functions

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

Battery

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

CD or DVD Tray

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

installed).

Display Functions

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

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

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

on an external monitor).

<Fn> and down-arrow key

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

Power Management

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

reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window.

<Fn><F1> Puts the computer into hibernate mode. Dell QuickSet is

required (see "Dell™ QuickSet Features" on page 159).

48 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 49

Speaker Functions

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

external speakers, if attached.

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

external speakers, if attached.

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

speakers, if attached.

Microsoft

Windows® Logo Key Functions

Windows logo key and <m>

Windows logo key and <Shift><m>

Windows logo key and <e> Runs Windows Explorer.

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

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

Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f>

Windows logo key and <Pause>

Minimizes all open windows.

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

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

Opens the System Properties dialog box.

Adjusting Keyboard Settings

To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 17.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 49

Page 50

Touch Pad

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

1 touch pad 2 silk-screen with scroll zones

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

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

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

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

50 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 51

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

NOTE: The scroll zones may not work with all programs. For the scroll zones to

function properly, the program must be able to use the touch-pad scroll feature.

Customizing the Touch Pad

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

Open the Control Panel, click click

Mouse

. For information about the Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 17.

In the

Mouse Properties

touch pad settings.

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

Printers and Other Hardware

window, click the

Pointer Options

, and then

tab to adjust

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 51

Page 52

52 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Page 53

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

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

Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your

computer.

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

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

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

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

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

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:

• Using optical drives

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

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

• Running the computer in maximum performance mode (See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 58.)

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

when writing to a CD or DVD.

Using a Battery 53

Page 54

You can check the battery charge (see "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 54) before you insert the battery into the computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 58 for information about accessing the Power Options Properties window.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Checking the Battery Charge

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

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, battery health, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer.

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

54 Using a Battery

Page 55

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar. For instructions on accessing more information about the Power Meter, see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 58.

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

Charge Gauge

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

• Battery charge (check by pressing and

• Battery health (check by pressing and

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

Check the Battery Charge

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

releasing

holding

the status button)

Check the Battery Health

To check the battery health using the charge gauge, press and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See "Specifications" on page 167 for more information about the battery operating time.

Using a Battery 55

Page 56

Low-Battery Warning

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

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

By default, a pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. You can change the settings for the battery alarms. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 58 for information about accessing the Power Options Properties window.

Conserving Battery Power

Perform the following actions to conserve battery power:

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

• Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time. See "Power Management Modes" on page 56 for more information about standby and hibernate modes.

• Select options to optimize your computer’s power usage. These options can also be set to change when you press the power button, close the display, or press <Fn><Esc>. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 58 for more information.

NOTE: See "Battery Performance" on page 53 for more information on conserving

battery power.

Power Management Modes

Standby Mode

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

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

mode, it may lose data.

56 Using a Battery

Page 57

To enter standby mode in Windows XP, click the Start button, click Turn off computer, and then click Stand by.

To enter sleep mode in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Sleep.

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

– Press the power button.

– Close the display.

– Press <Fn><Esc>.

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

Hibernate Mode

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

NOTICE: You cannot remove devices or undock your computer while your

computer is in hibernate mode.

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

To manually enter hibernate mode in Windows XP, click the Start button, click Turn off computer, press and hold <Shift>, and then click Hibernate.

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

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

• Press the power button.

• Close the display.

– Press <Fn><Esc>.

Using a Battery 57

Page 58

NOTE: Some ExpressCards may not operate correctly after the computer exits

hibernate mode. Remove and reinsert the card (see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 71), or simply restart (reboot) your computer.

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

Configuring Power Management Settings

You can use the QuickSet Power Management Wizard or Windows Power Options Properties to configure the power management settings on your computer. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and click Help.

Accessing Power Options Properties

Windows XP

Click the Start button, point to Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance, and then click Power Options

Windows Vista

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

Charging the Battery

When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the computer checks the battery charge and temperature. If necessary, the AC adapter then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge.

NOTE: With Dell™ ExpressCharge™, when the computer is turned off, the AC

adapter charges a completely discharged battery to 80 percent in about 1 hour and to 100 percent in approximately 2 hours. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer for as long as you like. The battery’s internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.

58 Using a Battery

Page 59

If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot environment, the battery may not charge when you connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

The battery is too hot to start charging if the light flashes alternately green and orange. Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and allow the computer and the battery to cool to room temperature. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue charging the battery.

For more information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 135.

Replacing the Battery

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

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

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

connector damage.

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

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

NOTICE: If you choose to replace the battery with the computer in standby mode,

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

To remove the battery:

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

Ensure that the computer is turned off.

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

Using a Battery 59

Page 60

1 battery-bay latch release 2 battery

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

Storing a Battery

Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully (see "Charging the Battery" on page 58) before you use it.

60 Using a Battery

Page 61

Using Multimedia

Playing a CD or DVD

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.

NOTE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs. Press the

eject button on the front of the drive.

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

Pull out the tray.

1 CD/DVD tray

Using Multimedia 61

Page 62

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

NOTE: If you use a CD/DVD drive that shipped with another computer, you need to

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

Push the tray back into the drive.

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 obey all copyright laws when you create CDs.

Adjusting the Volume

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

Click the (or

In the

Control

volume.

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

Adjust the volume with the volume control buttons or by pressing the following key combinations:

• Press <Fn><Page Up> to increase the volume.

• Press <Fn><Page Down> to decrease the volume.

• Press <Fn><End> to mute the volume.

Start

button, point to

Multimedia

Volume Control

column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease the

), and then click

window, click and drag the bar in the

Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment

Volume Control

Volume

Adjusting the Picture

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

Click the

Under

62 Using Multimedia

Start

button and click

Pick a category

Control Panel

, click

Appearance and Themes

Page 63

Under

Pick a task…

In the

Display Properties

resolution

Click the drop-down menu under

(16 bit)

Click OK to save the settings and close the window.

to reduce the screen resolution setting.

, click

Change the screen resolution

window, click and drag the bar in

Color quality

, and then click

Screen

Medium

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.

Click the

Projects

Under the

Start

button, point to

, and then click Copy

Copy

tab, click

Disc Copy

Programs→

Sonic→ DigitalMedia

Using Multimedia 63

Page 64

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

If you have one CD or DVD drive

and click the 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

Disc Copy

, ensure that the settings are correct

button. The computer reads your source CD

If you have two CD or DVD drives

• inserted your source CD or DVD and click the

, select the drive into which you have

Disc Copy

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

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.

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

64 Using Multimedia

Page 65

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +R W Ye s Ye s Ye s

DV D -R W Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

DVD-R DL Maybe No No

DVD-RAM Maybe No No

Helpful Tips

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

Using Multimedia 65

Page 66

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

• See the Sonic website at

www.sonic.com

for additional information.

Adjusting the Volume

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

Open the

Click and drag the bar in the down to increase or decrease the volume.

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

The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer. Either click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select or deselect Disable On Screen Volume Meter, or press the volume control buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.

Volume Control

window.

Volume Control

column and slide it up or

1 volume icon 2 Volume Meter

3 mute icon

66 Using Multimedia

Page 67

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

• Press <Fn><Page Up> to increase volume.

• Press <Fn><Page Down> to decrease volume.

• Press <Fn><End> to mute volume.

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

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.

Microsoft Windows XP

Click

Start→

Under

resolution

In the drop-down menu under click

Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System

Click the Windows Vista Start button , click click

Appearance and Personalization

Under

The

Display Properties

Control Panel→ Appearance and Themes

Pick a task…

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

Personalization

, click

Change the screen resolution. Under

Color quality

, click

Adjust Screen Resolution

window appears.

, click

Control Panel

Medium (16 bit)

Screen

and

, and then

Under

Resolution:

In the drop-down menu under

Click OK.

click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution setting.

Colors:

, click

Medium (16 bit)

Using Multimedia 67

Page 68

68 Using Multimedia

Page 69

Using Cards

ExpressCards

ExpressCards provide additional memory, wired and wireless communications, multimedia and security features. ExpressCards support two form factors:

• ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide)

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

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

See "Specifications" on page 167 for information on supported ExpressCards.

NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.

1 Express Card/34 2 ExpressCard/54

ExpressCard Blanks

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

To remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 71.

Using Cards 69

Page 70

Installing an ExpressCard

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

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

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

To install an ExpressCard:

Hold the card with the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need

to be in the "in" position before you insert the card.

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

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

70 Using Cards

1 ExpressCard

Page 71

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

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: Use the ExpressCard configuration utility (click the icon in the

taskbar) to select a card and stop it from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration utility, you could lose data.

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

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

1 release latch 2 ExpressCard

Using Cards 71

Page 72

Media Memory Cards

The 3-in-1 media memory card reader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card.

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

The 3-in-1 media memory card reader reads Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO and MultiMediaCard (MMC) media memory cards.

Installing a Media Memory Card

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

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

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

To install a media memory card:

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

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

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

72 Using Cards

Page 73

1 media memory card slot 2 media memory card

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

Removing a Media Memory Card

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

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

the taskbar) to select a card and stop it from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration utility, you could lose data.

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

Using Cards 73

Page 74

74 Using Cards

Page 75

Setting Up and Using Networks

Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem

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

The Microsoft systems provide wizards to help guide you through the process of networking computers.

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

Before you connect your computer to a network that is not wireless, the computer must have a network adapter installed and a network cable connected to it.

To connect a network cable:

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

Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® operating

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

cable to ensure that it is securely attached.

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

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

Setting Up and Using Networks 75

Page 76

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System

Click

Start→

Setup Wizard

NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects

directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with

Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2).

Complete the checklist.

Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions in the wizard.

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications→

→

Next→ Checklist for creating a network

Network

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System

Click the Windows Vista Start button

Set up a connection or network

Select an option under

Click

, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

Choose a connection option

→

and then click

Connect To→

76 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 77

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

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

What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection

Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:

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

• A broadband modem that is connected and working

• A wireless router or access point

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

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

Checking Your Wireless Network Card

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

• The

• Your order confirmation

Start

button and the

Connect To

option

Start Button and Connect To Option

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

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

→

Settings

In Microsoft Windows Vista, click

Connect To

Network Connections to view your network connections.

the Windows Vista Start button

→

View network computers and devices.

Setting Up and Using Networks 77

→

Page 78

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

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

Right-click

Click

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

Wireless Network Connection

Properties

Wireless Network Connection Properties

window appears. The

General

tab.

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

wireless network card.

The Order Confirmation for Your Computer

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

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

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

Ensure that you have wired Internet access through your broadband modem before you attempt to set up a wireless Internet connection (see "Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable" on page 75).

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

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

Start

the vicinity through the Windows XP Start button menu.

Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.

Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem.

menu or the Windows Vista

78 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 79

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

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

modem before you continue with the network setup.

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

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

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

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

potential connection failure.

Tu r n on

only

your broadband modem and wait for at least 2 minutes for

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

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

Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.

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

• Establish communication between your computer and your wireless

router.

• Configure your wireless router to communicate with your broadband

router.

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

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

If necessary, configure your wireless network card to connect to the wireless network (see "Connecting to a WLAN" on page 79).

Connecting to a WLAN

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

instructions in "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 77.

Setting Up and Using Networks 79

Page 80

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

Bluetooth

wireless technology or cellular products.

This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary. See "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 77 for more information about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.

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

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

documentation for your wireless network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on page 77.

Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager

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

• Your wireless network card’s client utility

• The Windows XP or Windows Vista operating system

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

Click

Start→

Right-click the

Available Wireless Networks

Settings→

Control Panel→

Wireless Network Connection

Network Connections

icon, and then click

View

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

wireless network card.

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

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

Click

Double-click a profile to open the wireless network properties screen.

→

Connect To→ Manage wireless networks.

80 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 81

For specific information about the wireless configuration utility installed on your computer, see your wireless network documentation in the Windows Help and Support Center (see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 17).

Completing the Connection to the WLAN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card

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

the components for establishing a WLAN (see "What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection" on page 77), and then verify that your wireless network card is enabled by pressing <Fn><F2>.

You can turn your computer’s wireless networking function on and off by pressing the <Fn><F2> key combination.

Setting Up and Using Networks 81

Page 82

Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet

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

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

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

Mobile Broadband/Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

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

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

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

What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection

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

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

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

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

NOTE: For instructions on using ExpressCards, see"Using Cards" on page 69

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

82 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 83

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

If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide for instructions. The user’s guide is available through the Windows Help and Support Center (see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 17) or on the CD that accompanied your card if you purchased it separately from your computer.

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

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

• Your order confirmation

• Microsoft Windows Help and Support Center

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

Click

Start→ information and diagnose problems Information computer.

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

Help and Support→

→ Find information about the hardware installed on this

Use Tools to view your computer

Under

To ol s

, click

My Computer

The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems.

Microsoft

Windows Firewall provides basic protection from unauthorized access to your computer while it is connected to the Internet. Windows Firewall is automatically enabled when you run the Network Setup Wizard.

When Windows Firewall is enabled for a network connection, the firewall icon appears with a red background in the Network Connections section of the Control Panel.

Windows

Firewall

Setting Up and Using Networks 83

Page 84

NOTE: Enabling Windows Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking

software.

For more information, click

Firewall

, or see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 17.

Start→ Control Panel→ Security→ Windows

84 Setting Up and Using Networks

Page 85

Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock

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

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

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

security cable slot on your computer.

Passwords

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

Securing Your Computer 85

Page 86

When using passwords, observe the following guidelines:

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

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

• Do not share your password with other people.

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

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

hard drive. However, they are not foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as smart cards, data encryption programs, or ExpressCards (or Mini-Cards) with encryption features.

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

If you forget any of your passwords, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 165). For your protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.

Computer Tracking Software

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

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

NOTE: If you have computer tracking software and your computer is lost or stolen,

you must contact the company that provides the tracking service to report the missing computer.

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

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

86 Securing Your Computer

Page 87

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

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

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

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

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

Securing Your Computer 87

Page 88

88 Securing Your Computer

Page 89

Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Begin

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

• You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 89) and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" (see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 90).

• You have read the safety information in your Dell™

Guide.

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

Recommended Tools

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

• Small flat-blade screwdriver

• Phillips screwdriver

• Small plastic scribe

• Flash BIOS update (see the Dell Support website at

Product Information

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.

Shut down the operating system:

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

In the

Turn off computer

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

Turn Off Computer

window, click

Adding and Replacing Parts 89

Turn of f

Start

Page 90

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 several seconds until the computer turns off.

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 help prevent damage to the computer, perform the following steps

before you begin working inside the computer.

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

Turn off your computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 89.

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

and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer.

NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery

from the battery bay before you service the computer.

NOTE: To avoid damage to the computer, use only the battery designed for this

particular Dell computer. Do not use other batteries designed for other Dell computers.

90 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 91

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

1 battery-bay latch release 2 battery

Press the power button to ground the system board.

Remove any installed cards from the ExpressCard slot (see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 71) and the 3-in-1 media memory card reader (see "Removing a Media Memory Card" on page 73).

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

Remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 92).

Adding and Replacing Parts 91

Page 92

Optical Drive

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

Turn the computer off.

Turn the computer over and remove the device security screw.

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

Slide the drive out of the bay.

1 optical drive 2 device security screw 3 notch

Hard Drive

CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot,

do not touch the metal housing of the hard drive.

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

92 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 93

NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your

Computer" on page 89) before removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate mode.

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

drive.

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

from sources other than Dell.

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

install an operating system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive. See "Restoring Your Microsoft "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 144.

Windows Vista® Operating System" on page 148 and

To replace the hard drive in the hard drive bay:

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 89.

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

1 hard drive screws (2) 2 hard drive

Adding and Replacing Parts 93

Page 94

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

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

Slide the hard drive out of the computer.

Remove the new drive from its packaging.

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

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

excessive force, you may damage the connector.

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

Replace and tighten the hard drive screws.

Install the operating system for your computer. See "Restoring Your Microsoft

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

Windows Vista® Operating System" on page 148.

and Utilities" on page 144.

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

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

1 foam packaging 2 hard drive

94 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 95

Memory

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See "Specifications" on page 167 for information on the memory supported by your computer. Install only memory modules that are intended for your computer.

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

warranty.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 89.

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

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

spread the memory-module securing clips.

Adding and Replacing Parts 95

Page 96

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

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

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

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

Remove the module from the connector.

1 memory module 2 memory-module securing

clips (2 per connector)

NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot

properly. No error message indicates this failure.

Ground yourself and install the new memory module:

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

connector slot.

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

96 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 97

1 notch 2 tab

NOTICE: If the memory module cover is difficult to close, remove the module and

reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer.

Replace the memory module cover.

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

Reinstall the hard drive. See "Hard Drive" on page 92.

Turn on the computer.

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

To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer:

•

In the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system,

Computer icon on your desktop. Click

•In the

Microsoft Windows Vista® operating system, click the Windows

Vista Start button , and right-click

Properties→ General

Computer→

right-click the My

Properties

Adding and Replacing Parts 97

Page 98

Modem

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

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

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 89.

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

Remove the existing modem:

Remove the modem screw.

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

98 Adding and Replacing Parts

Page 99

24 35

1 modem screw 2 modem pull-tab 3 modem connector on

4 modem 5 modem cable

Install the replacement modem:

Connect the modem cable to the modem.

NOTICE: The connector is keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance,

check the connector and realign the card.

Align the modem with the screw holes and press the modem down

system board

into the connector on the system board.

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

Replace the modem cover.

Adding and Replacing Parts 99

Page 100

Hinge Cover

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

safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

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

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

NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery

from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 89.

Remove the hinge cover.:

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

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the hinge cover, do not lift the cover on both sides

simultaneously.

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

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

NOTE: When replacing the hinge cover, first insert the left edge and then press

from left to right until the cover snaps into place.

100 Adding and Replacing Parts

Dell Vostro 1000 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Finding Information

About Your Computer

Determining Your Computer’s Configuration

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Power Protection Devices

Surge Protectors

Line Conditioners

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

Using a Projector

Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Using a Monitor as Your Primary Display

Microsoft Windows XP

Windows Vista

Using Catalyst® Control Center

Launching Catalyst Control Center

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

Key Combinations

System Functions

Battery

CD or DVD Tray

Display Functions

Power Management

Speaker Functions

Adjusting Keyboard Settings

Touch Pad

Customizing the Touch Pad

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Checking the Battery Charge

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

Charge Gauge

Low-Battery Warning

Conserving Battery Power

Power Management Modes

Configuring Power Management Settings

Accessing Power Options Properties

Charging the Battery

Replacing the Battery

Storing a Battery

Using Multimedia

Playing a CD or DVD

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Using Cards

ExpressCards

ExpressCard Blanks

Installing an ExpressCard

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

Media Memory Cards

Installing a Media Memory Card