Dell Vostro 1510 User Manual

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DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 9/4/09 – FOR PROOF ONLY
Template Last Updated - 2/21/2007
Dell™ Vostro™ 1510
Service Manual
Model PP36L
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of
your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data
and tells you how to avoid the problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates potential for property damage, personal injury,
or death.
If you purchased a DELL™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft
®
Windows® operating systems are not applicable.
____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2008 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, and Vostro are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and the Windows start button logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG Inc.
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 PP36L
September 2009 Rev. A01
DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 9/4/09 – FOR PROOF ONLY
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Contents
1 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Troubleshooting Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Diagnostic Lights
Hardware Troubleshooter
Dell Diagnostics
Error Messages
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Solving Problems
Battery Problems
Drive Problems
IEEE 1394 Device Problems
Lockups and Software Problems
Memory Problems
Power Problems
Sound and Speaker Problems
Video and Display Problems
Dell Technical Update Service
Dell Support Utility
Accessing the Dell Support Utility
Clicking the Dell Support Icon
Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
. . . . . . . . . . . . 20
. . . . . . . . . 21
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
. . . . . . . . . . . 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . 25
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
. . . . . . . . . 26
. . . . . . . . . . . 26
. . . . . . . 27
2 Before Working on Your Computer . . . . . 29
Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Contents
3
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What You Need to Know for Your Safety . . . . . . . . 29
3 Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Removing the Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Replacing the Hard Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
4 Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Card 37
Removing a WLAN Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Replacing a WLAN Card
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
5Fan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Removing the Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Replacing the Fan
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
6 Processor Thermal-Cooling Assembly . . 43
Removing the Processor Thermal-Cooling Assembly . 43
Replacing the Processor Thermal-Cooling Assembly
. 44
7 Processor Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
4 Contents
Removing the Processor Module . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Replacing the Processor Module . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
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8Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Removing a Memory Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Replacing a Memory Module
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
9 Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Removing the Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Replacing the Hinge Cover
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
10 Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Removing the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Replacing the Keyboard
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
11 Power Button and Multimedia Button Pads 61
Removing the Power Button and Multimedia Button Pads 61
Replacing the Power Button and Multimedia Button Pads
62
12 Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Display Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Removing the Display Assembly
Replacing the Display Assembly
Display Bezel
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Removing the Display Bezel
Replacing the Display Bezel
. . . . . . . . . . 65
. . . . . . . . . . 67
. . . . . . . . . . . . 68
. . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Contents
5
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Display Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Removing the Display Inverter
Replacing the Display Inverter
. . . . . . . . . . . 70
. . . . . . . . . . . 71
Display Panel
Removing the Display Panel
Replacing the Display Panel
Display Cable
Removing the Display Cable
Replacing the Display Cable
Camera and Microphone Assembly
Removing the Camera and Microphone Assembly
Replacing the Camera and Microphone Assembly
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
. . . . . . . . . . . . 72
. . . . . . . . . . . . 73
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
. . . . . . . . . . . . 74
. . . . . . . . . . . . 75
. . . . . . . . . . . 76
76
77
13 Palm Rest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Removing the Palm Rest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Replacing the Palm Rest
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
14 Fingerprint Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Removing the Fingerprint Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
15 Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless
Technology
6 Contents
Replacing the Fingerprint Reader
87
. . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Removing the Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Replacing the Card
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
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16 Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Removing the Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Replacing the Optical Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
17 System Board Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Removing the System Board Assembly . . . . . . . . . 95
Replacing the System Board Assembly
. . . . . . . . . 96
18 Speaker Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Removing the Speaker Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Replacing the Speaker Assembly
. . . . . . . . . . . . 100
19 USB Daughter Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Removing the USB Daughter Card . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Replacing the USB Daughter Card
. . . . . . . . . . . 104
20 Battery Latch Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Removing the Battery Latch Assembly . . . . . . . . . 107
Replacing the Battery Latch Assembly
. . . . . . . . . 108
21 Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Contents
7
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Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
22 Flashing the BIOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Flashing the BIOS From a CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Flashing the BIOS From the Hard Drive
. . . . . . . . . 116
8 Contents

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Tools

Diagnostic Lights

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
Your computer has three keyboard status lights located above the keyboard. During normal operation, the keyboard status lights display the current status (on or off) of the Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock features. If the computer starts without error, the lights flash, and then turn off. If the computer malfunctions, however, you can use the status of the lights to help identify the problem.
NOTE: After the computer completes POST, the Num Lock light may remain on,
depending on your BIOS settings. For more information on using the system setup program, see the Dell™ Technology Guide on your computer or at support.dell.com.
Diagnostic Light Codes During POST
To troubleshoot a problem with your computer, read the sequence of the keyboard status lights in order from left to right (Num Lock, Caps Lock, and then Scroll Lock). If the computer malfunctions the individual lights display a status of either On , Off , or Flashing .
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Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
No memory modules are detected.
• If two or more memory modules are installed, remove the modules (see "Removing a Memory Module" on page 49), then reinstall one module (see "Replacing a Memory Module" on page 51) and restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, continue to install additional memory modules (one at a time) until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.
• If available, install working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Memory" on page 49).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.
Memory modules are detected, but a memory failure has occurred.
• If two or more memory modules are installed, remove the modules (see "Removing a Memory Module" on page 49), then reinstall one module (see "Replacing a Memory Module" on page 51) and restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, continue to install additional memory modules (one at a time) until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.
• If available, install working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Memory" on page 49).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.
A possible processor failure has occurred.
• Reseat the processor (see "Removing the Processor Module" on page 45).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.
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Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution
A possible graphics card/video failure has occurred.
A possible LCD failure has occurred.
A possible keyboard failure has occurred.
A possible USB controller failure has occurred.
• Reseat any installed graphics cards.
• If available, install a working graphics card into your computer.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.
• Reseat the LCD cable (see "Removing the Display Assembly" on page 65).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.
• Reseat the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 57).
• If available, connect an external keyboard.
• If the problem persists, contact Dell Support.
• Remove any USB devices.
• If the problem persists, contact contact Dell Support.

Hardware Troubleshooter

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected, but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
Windows XP:
Click
Start→
1
2
Ty p e
Help and Support
hardware troubleshooter
<Enter> to start the search.
3
In the
Fix a Problem
4
In the
Hardware Troubleshooter
the problem, and click
section, click
Next
Windows Vista®:
Click the Windows Vista start button , and click
1
DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 9/4/09 - FOR PROOF ONLY
.
in the search field and press
Hardware Troubleshooter
.
list, select the option that best describes
to follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.
Help and Support.
Troubleshooting 11
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2
Ty p e
hardware troubleshooter
in the search field and press
<Enter> to start the search.
3
In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.

Dell Diagnostics

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on page 18, and then run the Dell Diagnostics before contacting Dell for assistance.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities media provided with your computer.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media is optional and may not ship with your
computer.
NOTE: The Dell Diagnostics only operate on Dell computers.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
Before running the Dell Diagnostics, enter system setup to review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test is displayed in system setup and is active. For more information on using the system setup program, see the Dell™ Technology Guide on your computer or at support.dell.com.
The Dell Diagnostics is located on a separate diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
NOTE: If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See
the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.
NOTE: If your computer does not display a screen image, contact Dell Support.
1
Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly.
2
Press and hold the <Fn> key or the mute button then turn on your computer.
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NOTE: Alternatively, you can select Diagnostics from the one-time boot menu
at startup to boot to the diagnostic utility partition and run the Dell Diagnostics.
The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment (PSA), a series of initial tests of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, etc.
During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s) and contact Dell Support.
If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, the following message appears: "
Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has
been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities media (see "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media" on page 14).
3
Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility
."
partition on your hard drive.
4
Press <Tab> to select
Tes t Sy stem
and then press <Enter>.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test
on your computer. Selecting Test Memory initiates the extended memory test, which can take up to thirty minutes or more to complete. When the test completes, record the test results and then press any key to return to the previous menu.
5
At the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu, left-click with the touch pad/mouse, or press <Tab> and then <Enter>, to select the test you want to run (see "Dell Diagnostics Main Menu" on page 15).
NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they
appear and follow the instructions on the screen.
6
After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu.
7
Close the Main Menu window to exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer.
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NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has
been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities media (see "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media" on page 14).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media
Before running the Dell Diagnostics, enter system setup to review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test is displayed in system setup and is active. For more information on using the system setup program, see the Dell™ Technology Guide on your computer or at support.dell.com.
Insert the
1
2
Restart your computer.
3
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
Drivers and Utilities media into the optical drive
NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key is held down for extended
periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and release <F12> in even intervals to open the Boot Device Menu.
.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.
4
When the boot device list appears, use the up- or down- arrow keys to highlight
5
Press any key to confirm that you want to start from the CD/DVD.
CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive
NOTE: Using the one-time boot menu changes the boot sequence for the
current boot only. Upon restart, the computer boots according to the boot sequence specified in system setup.
then press <Enter>.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.
6
Ty p e 1 to
7
At the
Resource CD (graphical user interface)
8
Press <Tab> to select
DELL CONFIDENTIAL – PRELIMINARY 9/4/09 - FOR PROOF ONLY
Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics
Dell Diagnostics Menu
Test Sy st em
, type 1 to select
and then press <Enter>.
.
Dell 32-bit Diagnostics for
.
14 Troubleshooting
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NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test
on your computer. Selecting Test Memory initiates the extended memory test, which can take up to thirty minutes or more to complete. When the test completes, record the test results and then press any key to return to the previous menu.
9
At the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu, left-click with the mouse, or press <Tab> and then <Enter>, to select the test you want to run (see "Dell Diagnostics Main Menu" on page 15).
NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they
appear and follow the instructions on the screen.
10
After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu.
11
Close the Main Menu window to exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer.
12
Remove the
Drivers and Utilities
media from the optical drive.
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
After the Dell Diagnostics loads the following menu appears:
Option Function
Test Memory Run the stand-alone memory test
Test System Run system diagnostics
Exit Exit the diagnostics
Press <Tab> to select the test you want to run and then press <Enter>.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on
your computer. Selecting Test Memory initiates the extended memory test, which can take up to thirty minutes or more to complete. When the test completes, record the test results and then press any key to return to this menu.
After Test System is selected, the following menu appears:
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Option Function
Express Test Performs a quick test of devices in the
system. This typically can take 10 to 20 minutes.
NOTE: The Express Test requires no interaction on your
part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing a problem quickly.
Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices in
the system. This typically can take an hour or more.
NOTE: The Extended Test periodically requires your input
to answer specific questions.
Custom Test Use to test a specific device or
customize the tests to be run.
Symptom Tree This option allows you to select tests
based on a symptom of the problem you are having. This option lists the most common symptoms.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Test to perform a more
thorough check of devices in the computer.
For any problem encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description exactly as it appears and follow the instructions on the screen. If you cannot resolve the problem, contact Dell Support.
NOTE: When contacting Dell Support, have your Service Tag ready. The Service
Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen.
The following tabs provide additional information for tests run from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option:
Tab Function
Results
Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered.
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Tab Function (continued)
Errors Displays error conditions encountered,
error codes, and the problem description.
Help Describes the test and any requirements
for running the test.
Configuration Displays the hardware configuration for
the selected device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from System Setup, memory, and various internal tests, and displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen.
NOTE: The device list may not display the names of all
components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.
Parameters Allows you to customize the test, if
applicable, by changing the test settings.

Error Messages

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
If the error message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in filenames.
A
REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you are trying to open
is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program:
Windows XP:
1
Click
Start→
Control Panel→ Add or Remove Programs→ Programs and Features
2
Select the program you want to remove.
3
Click
Uninstall
4
See the program documentation for installation instructions.
Windows Vista:
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.
Troubleshooting 17
.
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Click
Start
1
2
Select the program you want to remove.
3
Click
Uninstall
4
See the program documentation for installation instructions.
drive letter :\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY — The drive cannot read the disk. Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
I
NSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — Insert a bootable floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
ON-SYSTEM DISK ERROR — Remove the floppy disk from the floppy drive and
N
restart your computer.
N
OT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. CLOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY
AGAIN Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. In some
cases, you may have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.
PERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell Support.
O
Control Panel→ Programs→ Programs and Features
.
.

Solving Problems

Follow these tips when troubleshooting your computer:
If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.
If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.
If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).
If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default
view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view.

Battery Problems

CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly
installed. Replace the battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.

Drive Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
NSURE THAT MICROSOFT
E
Windows XP:
• Click
Start
and click
Windows Vista:
• Click
Start
and click
If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
EST THE DRIVE —
T
• Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original drive is defective.
• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.
CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK For information on cleaning your computer, see the
Dell™ Technology Guide on your computer or at support.dell.com.
C
HECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER See "Hardware Troubleshooter" on page 11.
R
UN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 12.
®
WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE
My Computer
Computer
.
.
Optical drive problems
NOTE: High-speed optical drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which
does not indicate a defect in the drive or the media.
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all
DVD titles work in all DVD drives.
A
DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —
• Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
• Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.
• Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.
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CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 24.
Problems writing to an optical drive
CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — The optical drive must receive a steady stream of data during the writing process. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the optical.
URN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A DISC — Fo r
T
information about setting power options, see the Dell™ Technology Guide on your computer or at support.dell.com. You can also search for the keyword standby in Windows Help and Support for information on power management modes.
Hard drive problems
RUN CHECK DISK
Windows XP:
1
Click
Start and click My Computer
2
Right-click
3
Click
4
Click
Local Disk C:
Properties→ Tools→
.
Check Now
Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors and click Start
.
.
.
Windows Vista:
1
Click
Start
2
Right-click
3
Click
The
Local Disk C:
Properties→ Tools→
User Account Control
computer, click
and click
Continue
Computer
.
.
Check Now
.
window may appear. If you are an administrator on the
; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the
desired action.
4
Follow the instructions on the screen.

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
NOTE: Your computer supports only IEEE 1394a standard.
NSURE THAT THE CABLE FOR THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS PROPERLY INSERTED INTO
E
THE DEVICE AND INTO THE CONNECTOR ON THE COMPUTER
ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS ENABLED IN SYSTEM SETUP — For more information on using the system setup program, see the Dell™ Technology Guide on your
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computer or at support.dell.com.
NSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —
E
Windows XP:
1
Click
Start and click Control Panel
2
Under
Pick a Category
Properties
Hardware→
, click
Device Manager
.
Performance and Maintenance→
.
System→
System
Windows Vista:
1
Click
Start
2
Click
Device Manager.
Control Panel→ Hardware and Sound
.
If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.
F YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL IEEE 1394 DEVICE — Contact Dell
I
Support.
F YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —
I
Contact the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer.

Lockups and Software Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
The computer does not start up
CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS See "Power Problems" on page 23.
E
NSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO
THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET
The computer stops responding
NOTICE: You may lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system
shutdown.
URN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on
T
your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your computer.
A program stops responding
END THE PROGRAM
1
Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to access the Task Manager.
2
Click the
Applications
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Troubleshooting 21
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Click to select the program that is no longer responding.
3
4
Click
End Task
.
A program crashes repeatedly
NOTE: Most software includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a
floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
HECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall
C
the program.
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system
RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD
Windows XP:
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-XP operating system environments.
1
Click
Start→
All Programs→ Accessories→ Program Compatibility Wizard→ Next
2
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Windows Vista:
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows Vista operating system environments.
1
Click
Start
Control Panel→ Programs→ Use an older program with this
version of Windows.
2
In the welcome screen, click
3
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Next
.
.
A solid blue screen appears
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your computer.
Other software problems
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE
MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION —
• Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.
• Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information.
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• Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
• Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.
• If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY
USE A VIRUS-SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE, FLOPPY DISKS,
S , OR DVDS
CD
SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR
COMPUTER THROUGH THE START MENU

Memory Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
I
F YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —
• Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem.
• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (see "Replacing a Memory Module" on page 51).
• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 49) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 12).
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS
• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 49) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Replacing a Memory Module" on page 51).
• Ensure that the memory you are using is supported by your computer. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see the
Quick Reference Guide
for your computer at
support.dell.com
.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 12).
Setup and

Power Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
F THE POWER LIGHT IS GREEN AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING — See
I
"Diagnostic Lights" on page 9.
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IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF — The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.
• Reseat the power cable in the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.
• Bypass power strips, power extension cables, and other power protection devices to verify that the computer turns on properly.
• Ensure that any power strips being used are plugged into an electrical outlet and are turned on.
• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE Some possible causes of interference are:
• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables
• Too many devices connected to the same power strip
• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Sound and Speaker Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
No sound from speakers
NOTE: The volume control in MP3 and other media players may override the
Windows volume setting. Always check to ensure that the volume on the media player(s) has not been turned down or off.
DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon
A
in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.
ISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Sound from the
D
speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.
LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or
E
halogen lamps to check for interference.
UN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Hardware Troubleshooter" on
R
page 11.
No sound from headphones
CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION Ensure that the headphone cable is
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securely inserted into the headphone connector. See the Setup and Quick Reference Guide for your computer at support.dell.com.
DJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon
A
in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

Video and Display Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
NOTICE: If your computer came with a PCI graphics card installed, removal of the
card is not necessary when installing additional graphics cards; however, the card is required for troubleshooting purposes. If you remove the card, store it in a safe and secure location. For information about your graphics card, go to
support.dell.com.
HECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS — See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 9.
C
C
HECK THE DISPLAY SETTINGS — See the Dell™ Technology Guide on your
computer or at support.dell.com.
DJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —
A
Windows XP:
1
Click
Start→
Control Panel→
2
Click the area you want to change or click the
3
Try different settings for
Windows Vista:
1
Click
Start
Display Settings
2
Adjust
Resolution
→ Control Panel→ Hardware and Sound→ Personalization
.
and
Appearance and Themes
Color quality
Colors settings,
and
as needed.
.
Display
icon.
Screen resolution
.
Only part of the display is readable
CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR
1
Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer.
2
Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls.
If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective.
Contact Dell Support.
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Dell Technical Update Service

The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications.
To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.

Dell Support Utility

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

Accessing the Dell Support Utility

Access the Dell Support Utility from the icon on the taskbar or from the Start menu.
If the Dell Support icon does not appear in your taskbar:
Click
1
2
Start→ All Programs→ Dell Support→
Ensure that the
Show icon on the taskbar
Dell Support Settings
option is checked.
.
NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to
support.dell.com and download the software.
The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment.
The icon in the taskbar functions differently when you click, double­click, or right-click the icon.

Clicking the Dell Support Icon

Click or right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:
Check your computing environment.
View the Dell Support Utility settings.
Access the help file for the Dell Support Utility.
View frequently asked questions.
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Learn more about the Dell Support Utility.
Turn the Dell Support Utility off.

Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon

Double-click the icon to manually check your computing environment, view frequently asked questions, access the help file for the Dell Support Utility, and view Dell Support settings.
For more information about the Dell Support Utility, click the question mark (?) at the top of the Dell
Support screen.
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28 Troubleshooting

Before Working on Your Computer

This document provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that:
You have performed the steps in "Before Working on Your Computer" on page 29.
You have read the safety information that shipped with your computer.
When replacing a component, you have already removed the original, if installed.
NOTE: The color of your computer and certain components may appear differently
than shown in this document.

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

What You Need to Know for Your Safety

support.dell.com
)
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 that shipped with your computer.
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You
should only perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions that came with the product.
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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: 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: When disconnecting a cable, pull on the cable's connector or on its
strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself. For cable connectors with locking tabs, press inward on the locking tabs to release the connector. When connecting a cable, ensure that the connectors are correctly oriented and aligned to avoid damage to the connector and/or the connector's pins.
1
Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.
2
Shut down your computer.
In Windows XP, click
In Windows Vista, click click
Shut Down
NOTE: Ensure that the computer is off and not in a power management mode.
If you cannot shut down the computer using the operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.
3
Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical
Start→ Shutdown→
Start
, click the arrow
Shutdown
to turn off your computer.
.
icon,
and then
outlets.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer,
and then unplug it from the network wall jack.
4
Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer.
5
Remove any installed cards from the ExpressCard slot and the 8-in-1 memory card reader.
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 batteries designed for other Dell computers.
6
Turn the computer upside down.
7
Slide the battery lock to the open position.
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30 Before Working on Your Computer
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