Dell XPS User Manual

Download

Dell™ Dimension™ XPS

headphone connector

microphone connector

USB 2.0 connectors (2)

IEEE 1394 connector

serial connector 1

serial connector 2

diagnostic lights (4)

keyboard connector

USB 2.0 connectors (6)

DVI video connector

modem

PCI sound card with IEEE 1394

card slots (4)

fans (2)

parallel connector

cover latch release

mouse connector

network adapter connector

VGA video connector

security cable slot

padlock ring

power connector

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

use of your computer.

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

data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage,

personal injury, or death.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Dell Dimension Help file. To access help files, see page 30.

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this

document to Microsoft

Windows® operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

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

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, DellNet, Latitude, Dell Precision, Inspiron, OptiPlex, PowerApp, PowerVault, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, Axim, and Dimension are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

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 WHL

December 2003 P/N T2310 Rev. A02

CAUTION: Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

SAFETY: General SAFETY: When Using Your Computer SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits SAFETY: Battery Disposal

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

. . . . . . . . . . 11

Finding Information for Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

1 Using Your Computer

Opening the Drive Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Connecting Two Monitors

Configuring Graphics Cards

Settings and Functions Removing the Graphics Card Driver

About Serial ATA Drives

About Your RAID Configuration

RAID Level 0 RAID Level 1

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs Helpful Tips

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

Network Setup Wizard

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

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

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

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

Turning Off Your Computer

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

Contents 3

2 Optimizing Performance

Intel® Performance Acceleration Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

DDR Memory and Processor Front-Side Bus

Hyper-Threading

Overclocking

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

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

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

3 Solving Problems

Finding Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Finding Help Information

Battery Problems

Drive Problems

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

Floppy drive problems CD drive problems Problems writing to a CD-RW drive DVD drive problems Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

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

General Problems

The computer stops responding A program stops responding A program crashes repeatedly A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft

operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

A solid blue screen appears Other software problems Other technical problems General hardware problems

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Windows

4 Contents

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

Mouse Problems

Network Problems

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

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

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

Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

No sound from speakers No sound from headphones

Video and Monitor Problems

If the screen is blank If the screen is difficult to read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4 Advanced Troubleshooting

Diagnostic Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Starting the Dell Diagnostics Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

Drivers

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

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers

Using Microsoft

Creating a Restore Point Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State Undoing the Last System Restore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Windows® XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

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

. . . . . . . . . . 58

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

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Reinstalling Microsoft

Before You Begin Reinstalling Windows XP

Windows® XP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

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

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

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

Contents 5

5 Removing and Installing Parts

Front and Back View of the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Front View Front View (Doors Open) Back View

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

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

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

Before You Begin

Recommended Tools Precautionary Measures Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

Opening the Computer Cover

Inside View of Your Computer

System Board Components

Memory

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

DDR Memory Overview Memory Installation Guidelines Installing Memory

PCI Cards

Installing a PCI Card Removing a PCI Card

AGP Cards

Removing an AGP Card Installing an AGP Card

Drives

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

Overview Hard Drive Floppy Drive CD/DVD Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

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

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

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

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

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

6 Contents

Processor Airflow Shroud

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

Removing the Processor Airflow Shroud Installing the Processor Airflow Shroud

Processor

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

Installing the Processor Removing the Processor

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

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

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

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

Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Removing the Front Panel Replacing the Front Panel

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

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

Drive Door

Battery

Closing the Computer Cover

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

Removing the Drive Door Replacing the Drive Door

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

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

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

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

6 Appendix

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Standard Settings

Viewing Settings System Setup Screens Boot Sequence

Clearing Forgotten Passwords

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals

Contacting Dell

Regulatory Notices

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

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

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

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

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

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

. . . . . . . . 112

. . . . . . . . . 112

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

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

Limited Warranties and Return Policy

Limited Warranty for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (U.S. Only) "Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (U.S. Only)

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

. . . 128

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

Limited Warranty Terms for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (Canada Only)

"Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (Canada Only) Dell Software and Peripherals (Canada Only)

Intel Only (U.S. and Canada Only)

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . 135

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Warranty Statement for Pentium® and Celeron® Processors

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

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Contents 7

8 Contents

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage.

SAFETY: General

• Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instruction s closely.

• To help prevent electric shock, plug the computer and device power cables into properly grounded electrical outlets. These cables are equipped with 3-prong plugs to help ensure proper grounding. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from a cable. If you must use an extension cable, use a 3-wire cable with properly grounded plugs.

• To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not use your computer during an electrical storm.

• To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not connect or disconnect any cables or perform maintenance or reconfiguration of this product during an electrical storm.

• If your computer includes a modem, the cable used with the modem should be manufactured with a minimum wire size of 26 American wire gauge (AWG) and an FCC-compliant RJ-11 modular plug.

• Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.

• To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting a device from the computer.

• To avoid shorting out your computer when disconnecting a network cable, first unplug the cable from the network adapter on the back of your computer, and then from the network jack. When reconnecting a network cable to your computer, first plug the cable into the network jack, and then into the network adapter.

• To help protect your computer from sudden, transient increases and decreases in electrical power, use a surge suppressor, line conditioner, or uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

• Ensure that nothing rests on your computer’s cables and that the cables are not located where they can be stepped on or tripped over.

• Do not push any objects into the openings of your computer. Doing so can cause fire or electric shock by shorting out interior components.

• Keep your computer away from radiators and heat sources. Also, do not block cooling vents. Avoid placing loose papers underneath your computer; do not place your computer in a closed-in wall unit or on a bed, sofa, or rug.

CAUTION: Safety Instructions 9

SAFETY: When Using Your Computer

As you use your computer, observe the following safe-handling guidelines.

CAUTION: Do not operate your computer with any cover(s) (including computer covers, bezels, filler brackets,

front-panel inserts, and so on) removed.

• Your computer is equipped with one of the following:

– A fixed-voltage power supply — Computers with a fixed-voltage power supply do not have a voltage

selection switch on the back panel and operate at only one voltage (see the regulatory label on the outside of the computer for its operating voltage).

– An auto-sensing voltage circuit — Computers with an auto-sensing voltage circuit do not have a voltage

selection switch on the back panel and automatically detect the correct operating voltage.

– A manual voltage selection switch — Computers with a voltage

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

selection switch on the back panel must be manually set to operate at the correct operating voltage. Set the switch to the position that most closely matches the voltage used in your location.

NOTICE: To help avoid damaging a computer with a manual voltage

selection switch, set the switch for the voltage that most closely matches the AC power available in your location. For Japan, the voltage selection switch must be set to the 115-V position even though the AC power available in Japan is 100 V. Also, ensure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to operate with the AC power available in your location.

• Before working inside the computer, unplug the computer to help prevent electric shock or system board damage. Certain system board components continue to receive power any time the computer is connected to AC power.

SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer

Before you open the computer cover, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to service the computer yourself, except as explained in your online Dell™

documentation or in instructions otherwise provided to you by Dell. Always follow installation and service instructions closely.

NOTICE: To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before

removing a component from the system board or disconnecting a device from the computer.

Perform an orderly computer shutdown using the operating system menu.

Turn off your computer and any devices connected to the computer.

Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the chassis, such as the metal around the card-slot openings at the back of the computer, before touching anything inside your computer.

While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components.

Disconnect your computer and devices, including the monitor, from their electrical outlets. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.

Doing so reduces the potential for personal injury or shock.

In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate:

• 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 disconnecting 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.

10 CAUTION: Safety Instructions

• 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 chip by its edges, not by its pins.

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. Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.

SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

Static electricity can harm delicate components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components, such as the processor. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.

You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD):

• Do not remove components from their antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the component in your computer. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, discharge static electricity from your body.

• When transporting an electrostatic sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or packaging.

• Handle all electrostatic sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads.

SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits

CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.

CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain.

For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in the Dell Dimension Help file when setting up and using your computer. To access the help file, see page 14.

SAFETY: Battery Disposal

Your computer uses a lithium coin-cell battery. The lithium coin-cell battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it. However, should you need to replace it, see page 101.

Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.

CAUTION: Safety Instructions 11

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

12 CAUTION: Safety Instructions

Finding Information for Your Computer

Dell provides the following support options to help you quickly find answers to your questions and problems:

• Dell Solution Center — Double-click the Dell Solution Center icon on your Microsoft

Windows

desktop for documentation, tools, troubleshooting information, and links to

online support resources.

• Dell Support on the Internet — The Dell Support website (

support.dell.com

) provides online tools, including a Knowledge Base, Frequently Asked Questions, Hints and Tips, Software Reinstall Guides, Dell Community Forums, and Dell Customer Care.

• Dell Technical Support — E-mail or call technical support personnel for Dell™ hardware or operating system issues that you cannot resolve using the Dell Support options.

Use the following chart to determine where you can find information on a particular topic.

What are you looking for? Find It Here

• How to access tutorials and other how to information

• How to get a copy of my invoice

• How to extend my warranty

• Additional documentation, tools, troubleshooting information, and links to online support resources

• Latest drivers for my computer

• Answers to technical service and support questions

• Online discussions with other users and technical support

• Documentation for my computer

Dell Solution Center

On your Windows desktop

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

The Dell Support website provides several online tools, including:

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

• Community Forum — 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, order status, warranty, and repair information

• Downloads — Drivers, patches, and software updates

• Reference — Computer documentation, product specifications, and white papers

Finding Information for Your Computer 13

What are you looking for? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Setup Diagram

• Additional information about setting up my computer

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

• How to remove and install parts

• Technical specifications

• How to contact Dell

• Tips on using Windows

• How to play CDs and DVDs

• How to use standby mode and hibernate mode

• How to change my display resolution

• How to clean my computer

• How to use Windows

• Documentation for my computer

• Documentation for devices (such as a modem)

Owner’s Manual

Dell Dimension Help File

Click the

Click

Start

button and click

User and system guides

and click

Dell™ Dimension™ Help

Help and Support

User’s guides

Windows Help and Support Center

Click the

Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow

Start

button and click

Help and Support

icon.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

14 Finding Information for Your Computer

What are you looking for? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

ResourceCD

• Drivers for my computer

• My computer documentation

• My device documentation

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer when shipped from Dell. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see page 55), run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 52), or access your documentation.

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

• How to reinstall my operating system

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft

Windows® License Label

Operating System CD

Windows XP is already installed on your computer when shipped from Dell. You can use the CD to reinstall the operating system (see page 60). After you reinstall your operating system using the Operating System CD, use the ResourceCD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

The product key for your operating system is located on your computer.

Service Tag and Microsoft Windows Label

These labels are located on your computer.

•Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you access Dell Support or when you contact Dell for technical assistance.

•Enter the Express Service Code into the automated call-routing system when you contact Dell for technical assistance. Express Service Code service may not be available in some countries.

•Use the number on the Windows License Label if you reinstall Windows on your computer.

Finding Information for Your Computer 15

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

16 Finding Information for Your Computer

Using Your Computer

Opening the Drive Door

Connecting Two Monitors

NOTE: If you are connecting two monitors that have VGA connectors, you must have the optional VGA

adapter. If you are connecting two flat-panel monitors, at least one of them must have a VGA connector. If you are connecting a television, you may connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the television.

Using Your Computer 17

If you purchased a video card that supports dual monitors, follow these instructions to connect and enable your monitors. The instructions tell you how to connect either two monitors (each with a VGA connector), one monitor with a VGA connector and one monitor with a DVI connector, or a television.

Save any open files, close any open programs, and then shut down your computer through the

Start

menu (see page 25).

Connect the monitor cables to the connectors on the back of the computer.

NOTE: If your computer has integrated video, do not connect either monitor to the integrated video

connector.

If both monitors have VGA connectors:

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Connect one of the monitors to the VGA (blue) connector on the computer.

Connect the other monitor to the optional VGA adapter and connect the VGA adapter to the DVI (white) connector on the computer.

optional VGA adapter

VGA (blue) connector

TV OUT connector

DVI (white) connector

If one monitor has a VGA connector and the other one has a DVI connector:

Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the computer.

18 Using Your Computer

Connect the DVI connector on the other monitor to the DVI (white) connector on the computer.

NOTE: To connect a television to your computer, you must purchase an S-video cable, which is available

at most consumer electronics stores. An S-video cable is not included with your computer.

If one of the monitors is a television:

Connect one end of the S-video cable to the TV-OUT connector on the computer.

Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your television.

Connect the VGA or DVI monitor as described on page 18.

Turn on the computer.

The Microsoft

Enable clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings.

Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.

• In clone mode, both monitors display the same image.

• In extended desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

For information on changing the display settings for your video card, see the user’s guide in the Help and Support Center (click the

system guides

, click

Device guides

Start

button, click

Help and Support

, click

, and then click the guide for your video card).

Configuring Graphics Cards

User and

Settings and Functions

Dell configured your graphics card for optimal performance with most games and other video programs. However, some game manufacturers may recommend that you either change a setting or enable or disable a certain function for a game to properly run. You may also want to readjust settings to better fit your gaming style.

Some settings, such as Direct3D or OpenGL, enable you to adjust the card for higher performance or for higher image quality. Other settings, such as contrast or color level, are cosmetic adjustments.

Certain high-end graphics cards are available with TV-Out support, which enables you to connect a television to your computer, in addition to the monitor. A TV-Out configuration is ideal for watching movies using an optional DVD player or for giving presentations. For information on connecting a television to your computer, see page 17.

Using Your Computer 19

For information and instructions on adjusting your graphics card’s operating mode, settings, and functions:

Click the

Click

User and system guides

Locate and click the guide for your graphics card.

Removing the Graphics Card Driver

If you want to install a different graphics card in your computer, you must first remove the driver for the graphics card that is currently installed. To remove a graphics card driver:

Click the

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Double-click

Click the name of the graphics card in the

Click

Change/Remove

After the driver is removed, install the new card (see "AGP Cards" on page 80), and then install the new card’s driver according to the documentation that came with the card.

NOTE: If you reinstall the graphics card that came with your computer, the card’s drivers are located on

the Dell Dimension ResourceCD (see "Drivers" on page 55 for more information).

About Serial ATA Drives

Your Dell™ Dimension™ XPS computer is compatible with both IDE and serial ATA hard drives. Serial ATA drives provide the following benefits by transferring data using serial technology and flexible cables that are thinner and longer than IDE cables:

• Improved cable routing facilitates more efficient airflow inside the chassis.

• Compact cable connectors save space on the system board and on the hard drive. Combined with the improved cable routing, this allows a more efficient utilization of space inside the chassis.

See "Hard Drive" on page 82 for information on serial ATA drive connections.

Start

button and click

Start

button and click

Add or Remove Programs

and follow the instructions on the screen.

Help and Support

Control Panel

Currently installed programs

list.

About Your RAID Configuration

This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration that you selected when you purchased your computer. Although there are several RAID configurations available in the computer industry for different types of uses, Dell offers either RAID level 0 or RAID level 1 on the Dimension XPS computer. A RAID level 0 configuration is recommended for high-performance gaming, and a RAID level 1 configuration is recommended for the data integrity requirements for digital photography and audio.

20 Using Your Computer

NOTE: RAID levels do not represent a hierarchy. A RAID level 1 configuration is not inherently better or

worse than a RAID level 0 configuration.

RAID Level 0

RAID level 0 uses a storage technique known as "data striping" to provide a high data access rate. Data striping is a method of writing consecutive segments, or stripes, of data sequentially across the physical drives to create a large virtual drive. Data striping allows one of the drives to read data while the other drive is searching for and reading the next block.

serial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 0

segment 1

segment 3

segment 5

hard drive

segment 2

segment 4

segment 6

hard drive

Another advantage of a RAID level 0 configuration is that it utilizes the full capacities of the drives. If you have two 120-GB drives installed, you have 240 GB on which to store data.

NOTICE: Because RAID level 0 provides no data redundancy, if one drive fails, then the data on the other

drive is also inaccessible. Therefore, ensure that you perform regular backups when you use a RAID level 0 configuration.

RAID Level 1

RAID level 1 uses a data-redundancy storage technique known as "mirroring." When data is written to the primary drive, it is then duplicated, or mirrored, on the other drive. A RAID level 1 configuration sacrifices high data access rates for its data redundancy advantages.

Using Your Computer 21

serial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 1

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

If a drive failure occurs, subsequent read and write operations are directed to the surviving drive. A replacement drive can then be rebuilt using the data from the surviving drive. Also, because data is duplicated on both drives, two 120-GB RAID level 1 drives collectively have a maximum of 120-GB on which to store data.

Transferring Information to a New Computer

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

• E-mails

• 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 a removable medium, such as a writable CD or floppy disk.

To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:

Click the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

When the

On the

segment 1

segment 2

segment 3

segment 4

segment 5

segment 6

hard drive

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

screen, click

segment 1 duplicated

segment 2 duplicated

segment 3 duplicated

segment 4 duplicated

segment 5 duplicated

segment 6 duplicated

hard drive

welcome screen appears, click

New Computer

and click

, and then click

22 Using Your Computer

On the

Windows XP CD

When the

Do not

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

and click Next.

Now go to your old computer

click

at this time.

screen, click

I will use the wizard from the

screen appears, go to your old or source computer.

To copy data from the old computer:

On the old computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

Under

What do you want to do?

On the

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

What do you want to transfer?

, click

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

After the information has been copied, the

Click

Finish

screen, select the items you want to transfer and click

Operating System

screen, click

Transfer files and settings

welcome screen, click

Old Computer

CD.

Perform additional tasks

and click

Completing the Collection Phase

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the your settings and files and click

Now go to your old computer

screen on the new computer, click

Where are the files and settings?

screen, select the method you chose for transferring

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

screen appears.

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

Click

Finished

and restart the new computer.

Finished

screen appears.

Copying CDs and DVDs

NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs or DVDs.

This section applies only to computers that have a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD+R, or DVD/CD-RW combo drive.

The following instructions show how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic RecordNow for other purposes, including creating CDs from audio files on your computer and creating MP3 CDs. For instructions, see the Sonic RecordNow documentation that came with your computer. Open Sonic RecordNow, click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window, and click

RecordNow Help

RecordNow Tutorial

Using Your Computer 23

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: If you have a DVD/CD-RW combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for

available software patches at the Sonic support website at support.sonic.com.

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

RecordNow.

Click the

Click either the audio tab or the data tab, depending on the kind of CD you are planning to copy.

Click

Exact Copy

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

To copy the CD or DVD:

If you have one CD or DVD drive

•

computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies it to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the CD or DVD drive and click

Start

button, point to

All Programs→

Sonic→ RecordNow!→ RecordNow!.

, ensure that the settings are correct and click

Copy

. The

If you have two CD or DVD drives

•

source CD or DVD and click

, select the drive into which you have inserted your

Copy

. The computer copies the data on the 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 CD-Rs and CD-RWs

Your CD-RW drive can write to two different types of recording media—CD-Rs and CD-RWs. 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 without changing your method of recording (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.

Helpful Tips

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

• You must 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 RecordNow.

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

24 Using Your Computer

• 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 650-MB blank CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1 or 2 MB of the blank CD to finalize the recording.

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

• See the Sonic support website at

support.sonic.com

for additional information.

Network Setup Wizard

The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office.

Click the

Network Setup Wizard

On the welcome screen, click

Click

NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the

integrated firewall provided with Windows XP.

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.

Start

button, point to

Checklist for creating a network

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

, and then click

Turning Off Your Computer

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

system shutdown, as described next, rather than by pressing the power button.

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

Turn Off Computer

In the

Turn off computer

The computer turns off after the shutdown process finishes.

window, click

Tur n o f f

Start

button, and then click

Using Your Computer 25

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

26 Using Your Computer

Optimizing Performance

Intel® Performance Acceleration Technology

Your Dell™ Dimension™ XPS computer is equipped with the Intel 875P chip set, which utilizes Performance Acceleration Technology (PAT). PAT is designed to optimize performance by reducing the latency between DDR 400 memory and 800 front-side bus processors, and helps provide high performance to meet the requirements for today’s demanding software.

DDR Memory and Processor Front-Side Bus

The performance of your computer’s DDR memory depends on the type of memory installed and the clock speed of your processor. For your computer, the memory type is DDR 400 (PC3200), so for an 800 MHz front-side bus processor, the memory performs at 400 MHz, while for a 533 frontside bus processor, the memory performs at 333 MHz. For information on installing memory, see page 73. For more information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 105.

Hyper-Threading

NOTE: Hyper-Threading is supported only on computers that have 3.06-GHz (or higher) processors

installed, or on computers that are running 800-MHz front-side bus processors.

Hyper-Threading is an Intel® technology that can enhance overall computer performance by allowing one physical processor to function as two logical processors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously. It is recommended that you use the Microsoft system because Windows XP is optimized to take advantage of Hyper-Threading technology. While many programs can benefit from Hyper-Threading, some programs have not been optimized for Hyper-Threading and may require an update from the software manufacturer. Contact the software manufacturer for updates and information about using Hyper-Threading with your software.

To determine if your computer is using Hyper-Threading technology:

Click the

Click

In the Threading is enabled, the processor is listed twice.

Start

button, right-click

Hardware

Device Manager

and click

My Computer

Device Manager

window, click the plus (+) sign next to the processor type. If Hyper-

, and then click

Windows® XP operating

Properties

Optimizing Performance 27

You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. For more information on accessing system setup, see page 109. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the Knowledge Base on the Dell Support website at

Overclocking

Dell locks the processor multiplier options in system setup to prevent processor overclocking. The first and most important reason for preventing overclocking is that Dell’s performance labs vigorously test and fine-tune Dell computers at the system level in an attempt to attain the best possible overall performance. Any performance modification that is not implemented in the labs could cause performance degradation. When you receive your computer in the configuration that

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

you ordered, it is already primed for high performance.

The second reason is that an overclocked processor, in general, creates excessive heat and electrical fields that can cause heat fatigue failures within the processor, thus possibly shortening its expected life span. Even slight overclocking can cause a computer to become unstable and lock up.

There are several after-market "performance-modification" products available through various sources, but Dell discourages and does not support the use of those products on its computers.

support.dell.com

28 Optimizing Performance

Solving Problems

Finding Solutions

Sometimes it’s difficult to figure out where to go for answers. Use this chart to help you quickly find the answers to your questions.

See page 42.

Press a key or move the mouse. See the Dell Dimen- sion Help file for information on standby mode.

Get technical assistance from Dell. See page 112.

See page 35.

Solving Problems 29

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

See page 46.

See page 45.

See page 34.

See page 40.

See page 39.

See page 31.

See page 41.

See page 44.

See page 35.

See page 36.

See page 34.

Finding Help Information

TO ACCESS THE DELL DIMENSION HELP FILE —

Click the

Click

User and system guides

Click

Dell™ Dimension™ Help

30 Solving Problems

Start

button and click

See page 36.

Help and Support

and click

User’s guides

See page 34.

TO ACCESS WINDOWS HELP —

Click the

Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon.

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions shown on the screen.

TO LOCATE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR YOUR COMPUTER — See page 13.

Start

button and click

Help and Support

Battery Problems

CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the

battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.

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

page 9.

REPLACE THE BATTERY — If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the

computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see page 101). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 112).

Drive Problems

Floppy drive problems

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the floppy drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for

and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.

TEST THE DRIVE —

• Insert another disk to eliminate the possibility that the original floppy disk is defective.

• Insert a bootable floppy disk and reboot the computer.

ENSURE THAT THE DISK IS NOT FULL OR WRITE-PROTECTED — Ensure that the disk has available space and that it is not write-protected (locked). See the following figure.

Solving Problems 31

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You may accidentally misalign the heads,

which can render the drive inoperable.

CLEAN THE DRIVE — Use a commercially available cleaning kit.

CD drive problems

NOTE: High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in

the drive or the CD.

back of floppy disk

write-protected

not writeprotected

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.

• Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.

• Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.

TEST THE DRIVE WITH ANOTHER CD — Insert another CD to eliminate the possibility that the original CD is defective.

CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 45.

ENSURE THAT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the CD

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.

32 Solving Problems

CLEAN THE DISC — See the Dell Dimension Help file for instructions on cleaning your CDs. To access help files, see page 14.

Problems writing to a CD-RW drive

CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — The CD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before writing to the CD-RW.

TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD-RW DISC — For information on power conservation modes, see the Dell Dimension Help file or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. To access help files, see page 14.

DVD drive problems

NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all

DVD drives.

TEST THE DRIVE WITH ANOTHER DVD — Insert another DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original DVD is defective.

ENSURE THAT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and click My Computer. If the DVD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.

CLEAN THE DISC — See the Dell Dimension Help file for instructions on cleaning your DVDs. To access help files, see page 14.

CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS — See page 59.

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK —

Click the

Right-click the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and then click

Click the

Under

Click

Start

button and click

Tools

tab.

Error-checking

Start.

, click

My Computer

Check Now

Properties

Solving Problems 33

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not operate while it is

connected to a digital telephone network.

NOTE: For optimum performance, install a modem card only in PCI slot 2, 3, or 4.

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION — Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem. (The jack has either a green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.) Ensure that you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK — Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.

CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack.

USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE — If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.

RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Click the Start button, point to All Programs, and then click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems.

(Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS® —

Click the

Click

Click the

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click communicating with Windows.

If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.

Start Printers and Other Hardware Phone and Modem Options

Modems

Properties

button and click

tab.

, click the

Diagnostics

Control Panel

tab, and then click

Query Modem

to verify that the modem is

34 Solving Problems

TURN OFF CALL WAITING (CATCH-PHONE) — See your telephone directory for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking connection properties.

Click the

Click

Click your connection type to highlight it.

Click the

Select the disable code from the drop-down menu (for example, *70).

Click

Start

button and click

Control Panel.

Printers and Other Hardware

Dialing Rules

tab and click

To Disable Call Waiting

Apply

and click OK.

, and then click

Edit

Phone and Modem Options.

box to place a checkmark in it.

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click

File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet.

ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE SUBSCRIBED TO AN INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER — Contact an Internet service provider to subscribe.

CONTACT YOUR INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER — Contact your Internet service provider for assistance.

Error Messages

If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.

A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in filenames.

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:

Click the

Click

Select the program you want to remove.

Click the

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

Start

button and click

Add or Remove Programs

Change or Remove Program

Control Panel

icon.

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable floppy disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.

Solving Problems 35

NON-SYSTEM DISK ERROR — A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy disk and restart the computer.

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. CLOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN — You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. In some cases, you might have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell (see page 112).

THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION DRIVE — The file that you are trying to copy is too

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

large to fit on the disk. Try copying the file to a blank disk or using a larger-capacity disk.

x:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY — The floppy drive cannot read the disk. Insert a floppy disk into the drive and try again.

General Problems

The computer stops responding

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

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

Click

Applications

Click the program that is no longer responding.

Click

End Task

36 Solving Problems

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information

that may help you solve the problem. Ensure that you properly installed and configured the program. If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

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

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —

Windows XP provides a Program Compatibility Wizard that configures a program so it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.

Click the

Wizard

In the welcome screen, click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Start

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories

, and then click

Program Compatibility

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper shutdown, press the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer. The chkdsk program automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen.

General hardware problems

If your computer exhibits one or more of the following symptoms, a device conflict may exist:

• Your computer locks up, particularly while using a specific device.

• A recently added device does not work.

• A sound card emits noise or demonstrates other problems.

• Unintelligible characters print from the printer.

• The mouse pointer does not move or "stutters" when it moves.

• Messages appear stating that the computer is not operating at maximum performance.

• Errors occur and programs crash for no apparent reason.

• Nothing displays on the monitor.

Go to

support.dell.com

for help with general usage, installation, and

38 Solving Problems

REMOVE ANY RECENTLY ADDED HARDWARE TO SEE IF IT RESOLVES THE CONFLICT — If removing the hardware resolves the conflict, see the hardware documentation for configuration and troubleshooting instructions. If the problem persists, contact the hardware manufacturer for technical assistance.

CHECK YOUR OPERATING SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION FOR ADDITIONAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION

CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS — See page 59.

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

NOTE: Check Windows Explorer to see if your device is listed as a drive.

CHECK THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE — Ensure that the IEEE 1394 device is properly inserted into the connector.

ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS® —

Click the

Click If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED IEEE 1394 DEVICE — Contact Dell (see page 112).

Start

button and click

Printers and Other Hardware

Control Panel

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY DELL — Contact the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer.

Keyboard Problems

RESTART THE COMPUTER —

• If the mouse is functioning, shut down the computer through the computer shuts down, press the power button to restart the computer.

• If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or the mouse, press the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer.

Start

menu (see page 25). After the

Solving Problems 39

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE —

• Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.

• Shut down the computer (see page 25), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer.

• Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins.

• Remove keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.

TEST THE KEYBOARD — Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, and try using the keyboard. If the new keyboard works, the original keyboard is faulty.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS — See page 59.

Mouse Problems

RESTART THE COMPUTER —

Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the

Ty p e u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight

After the computer turns off, press the power button to restart the computer.

IF YOU CONNECTED THE MOUSE BEFORE TURNING ON THE COMPUTER, RECONNECT THE MOUSE CABLE —

Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the

Ty p e u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight

After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

Start the computer.

Start

menu.

Shut down

Start

menu.

Shut down

Tur n O ff

, and then press <Enter>.

IF YOU CONNECTED THE MOUSE AFTER TURNING ON THE COMPUTER, REMOVE THE POWER CABLE, AND THEN RECONNECT THE

MOUSE CABLE — If the mouse is connected after the power is turned on, the mouse appears to be

nonfunctional. To make the mouse function properly:

While your computer is on, remove the power cable from the back of the computer.

Connect the mouse to the computer.

Reconnect the power cable.

Turn on your computer.

Pressing the power button does not clear the computer’s settings and does not restore mouse functionality.

40 Solving Problems

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —

• Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins.

• Ensure that the cable is firmly connected to the computer.

TEST THE MOUSE — Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, and try using the mouse. If the new mouse works, the original mouse was faulty.

CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Try adjusting the settings.

REINSTALL THE MOUSE DRIVER — See page 55.

CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS — See page 59.

Start

Mouse

button, click

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Network Problems

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram (see page 14).

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE BACK OF THE COMPUTER —

communication exists. Replace the network cable.

network integrity/speed light

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY TO LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN

No light indicates that no network

activity light

Solving Problems 41

CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.

CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS — See page 59.

Power Problems

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

page 9.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — Your computer may be in standby or hibernate mode. For information on power conservation modes, see the Dell Dimension Help file, or search for the keyword standby or hibernate in Windows

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING GREEN — The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse to resume normal operation.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF — The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.

• Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.

• If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on.

• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

• Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on.

• Ensure that the main power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 73).

• Ensure that the front-panel cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 73).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS AMBER AND GREEN — The computer is receiving electrical power, but an internal power problem might exist.

• Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 73).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

Help. To access help files, see page 14.

42 Solving Problems

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER — The computer is receiving electrical power, but an internal power problem might exist.

• Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 73).

• Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see page 73).

• Remove and then reinstall any cards (see page 77).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER — A device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

• Ensure that the main power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 73).

• Remove and then reinstall the video card, if applicable (see page 77).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE — Electrical appliances on the same circuit or operating near the computer can cause interference. Other causes of interference are:

• Power extension cables

• Keyboard and mouse extension cables

• Too many devices on a power strip

• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Printer Problems

NOTE: Dell does not cover the printer’s warranty. If you need technical assistance for your printer, call

the printer’s manufacturer. See the printer documentation for the correct phone number.

CHECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION — See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.

ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON — See the printer documentation for power button information.

VERIFY THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• See the printer documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

Solving Problems 43

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS® —

Click the

Click

Start

button.

Control Panel Printers and Other Hardware

View installed printers or fax printers

If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.

Click

Properties, following port(s): following port(s):

and then select the

setting is setting is

LPT1 (Printer Port) USB

Ports

tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that the

. For a USB printer, ensure that the

Print to the

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See the printer documentation for instructions.

Scanner Problems

NOTE: Dell does not cover the scanner’s warranty. If you need technical assistance for your scanner,

call the scanner’s manufacturer. See the scanner documentation for the correct phone number.

CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.

UNLOCK THE SCANNER — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• If your scanner has a power cable, ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to a working electrical outlet and that the scanner is turned on.

• Ensure that the scanner cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the scanner.

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® —

Click the

Click

Click If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

Start Printers and Other Hardware Scanners and Cameras

button and click

Control Panel

REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER — See the scanner documentation for instructions.

44 Solving Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

NOTE: For optimum performance, install a PCI sound card only in PCI slot 3 or 4.

No sound from speakers

NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows® volume setting. If you have

been listening to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.

CHECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS — Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If you purchased a sound card, ensure that the speakers are connected to the card.

ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s front-panel headphone connector.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

ENABLE DIGITAL MODE — Your speakers do not work if the CD drive is operating in analog mode. To enable digital mode:

Click the

Click

Click the

Double-click the name of your CD drive.

Click the

Check the

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.

RUN THE SPEAKER DIAGNOSTICS — Some speaker systems have self- diagnostics. See the speaker documentation for diagnostics instructions.

Start

button, click

Sounds and Audio Devices

Hardware

Properties

Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device

tab.

Control Pane l

, and then click

Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices

box.

Solving Problems 45

REINSTALL THE AUDIO (SOUND) DRIVER — See page 55.

CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS — See page 59.

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see page 63).

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

DISABLE DIGITAL MODE — Your headphones do not work if the CD drive is operating in digital mode. To disable digital mode:

Click the

Click

Click the

Double-click the name of your CD drive.

Click the

Uncheck the

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

Start Sounds and Audio Devices

Hardware

Properties

Video and Monitor Problems

If the screen is blank

NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.

CHECK THE MONITOR POWER LIGHT — If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that the monitor is turned on. If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power. If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

button, click

tab.

Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device

Control Panel

, and then click

Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices

box.

CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION — Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing pins.) Ensure that the video cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

46 Solving Problems

SWAP THE POWER CABLES — Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective.

TEST THE VIDEO EXTENSION CABLE (IF USED) — If you are using a video extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is defective.

TEST ANOTHER MONITOR — If another monitor is available, connect it to the computer.

CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS — See page 49.

If the screen is difficult to read

CHECK THE MONITOR SETTINGS — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.

MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE MONITOR — If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the monitor.

MOVE THE MONITOR AWAY FROM EXTERNAL POWER SOURCES — Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky." Turn off nearby devices to check for interference.

ROTATE THE MONITOR TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS® DISPLAY SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Try different settings for

Start

button and click

Appearance and Themes Display

and click the

Settings

Screen resolution

Control Panel

tab.

and

Color quality.

Solving Problems 47

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

48 Solving Problems

Advanced Troubleshooting

Diagnostic Lights

To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "A," "B," "C," and "D" (see page 65) on the back panel. The lights can be yellow or green. When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. After the computer starts, all four lights display solid green. If the computer malfunctions, the color and sequence of the lights identify the problem.

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

page 9.

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

ABCD

The computer is in a normal off condition or a possible pre-BIOS failure has occurred.

A possible processor failure has occurred. Reinstall the processor (see page 93) and

Verify that the computer is plugged into a working electrical outlet and that you have pressed the power button.

restart the computer.

ABCD

= yellow

= green

= off

Memory modules are detected, but a memory failure has occurred.

Reinstall all memory modules (see page 73).

Ensure that all the connector tabs are locked.

Restart the computer.

If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

Advanced Troubleshooting 49

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

ABCD

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

ABCD

A possible expansion card failure has occurred.

A possible video card failure has occurred. • If the computer has a video card,

A possible floppy or hard drive failure has occurred.

Determine if a conflict exists by removing a card (not a video card) (see page 77) and then restarting the computer.

If the problem persists, reinstall the card that you removed, remove a different card, and then restart the computer.

Repeat this process for each card. If the computer starts normally, troubleshoot the last card removed from the computer for resource conflicts (see "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 59).

If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

remove the card (see page 80), reinstall it, and then restart the computer.

• If the problem still exists, install a video card that you know works and restart the computer.

• If the problem persists or the computer has integrated video, contact Dell (see page 112).

Reseat all power and data cables and restart the computer.

ABCD

= yellow

= green

= off

50 Advanced Troubleshooting

A possible USB failure has occurred. Reinstall all USB devices, check cable

connections, and then restart the computer.

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

No memory modules are detected.

Reinstall all memory modules (see page 73).

ABCD

Ensure that all the connector tabs are locked.

Restart the computer.

If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

ABCD

Memory modules are detected, but a memory configuration or compatibility error exists.

• Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements exist (see page 73).

• Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your computer (see page 73).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

A possible system board resource and/or hardware failure has occurred.

ABCD

A possible expansion card failure has occurred.

ABCD

See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 59.

If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

Determine if a conflict exists by removing a card (not a video card) (see page 77) and restarting the computer.

If the problem persists, reinstall the card that you removed, remove a different card, and then restart the computer.

If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

= yellow

= green

= off

Advanced Troubleshooting 51

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

ABCD

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

= yellow

= green

= off

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" (see page 29) and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance. Running the Dell Diagnostics may help you resolve the problem without contacting Dell. If you do contact Dell, the test results can provide important information for Dell's service and support personnel.

The Dell Diagnostics allows you to:

• Perform tests on one or all devices.

• Select tests based on a symptom of the problem you are having.

• Choose how many times a test is run.

• Suspend testing if an error is detected.

• Access help information that describes the tests and devices.

• Receive status messages that tell you whether tests completed successfully.

• Receive error messages if problems are detected.

Another failure has occurred. • Ensure that the cables are properly

connected to the system board (see page 73) from the hard drive, CD drive, and DVD drive.

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 112).

The computer is in a normal operating condition after POST.

None.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics

NOTICE: Use the Dell Diagnostics to test your Dell™ computer only. Using this program with other

computers can result in error messages.

Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive (see page 53) or from the

ResourceCD

52 Advanced Troubleshooting

(see page 53).

Dell Dimension

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

Shut down (see page 25) and restart the computer.

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

NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell

Diagnostics from your ResourceCD (see page 53).

If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the

Start

menu and try

again.

When the boot device list appears, highlight

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

Boot to Utility Partition

and press <Enter>.

appears, select the test you want to run (see

page 54).

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the ResourceCD

Insert the ResourceCD.

Shut down (see page 25) and restart the computer.

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

If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the

Start

Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the

NOTE: This feature changes the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer

boots according to the devices specified in system setup.

When the boot device list appears, highlight

Select the

Ty p e 1 to start the ResourceCD menu.

Ty p e 2 to start the Dell Diagnostics.

Select

IDE CD-ROM Device

Boot from CD-ROM

option from the CD boot menu.

option from the menu that appears.

Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics

IDE CD-ROM Device

from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed,

menu and try again.

and press <Enter>.

select the version appropriate for your computer.

When the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

appears, select the test you want to run (see

page 54).

Advanced Troubleshooting 53

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the option you want.

Option Function

Express Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes 10

Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you

Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows

If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.

If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see page 112).

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell,

technical support will ask for your Service Tag.

If you run a test from the

described in the following table for more information.

Main Menu

to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part.

Express Test

Run the problem quickly.

takes an hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically.

want to run.

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

Custom Test

first to increase the possibility of tracing

Symptom Tree

screen appears, click the button for the

option, click the applicable tab

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for

54 Advanced Troubleshooting

encountered.

problem description.

running the test.

Ta b Function

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected

device.

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

Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test

settings.

When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the ResourceCD

remove the CD.

Close the test screen to return to the restart the computer, close the

Main Menu

screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and

screen.

Drivers

What Is a Driver?

A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices require a driver program.

A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes.

Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation or configuration is needed.

NOTICE: The Dell Dimension ResourceCD may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your

computer. Ensure that you are installing software appropriate for your operating system.

Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft® Windows® operating system. You may need to install drivers if you:

• Upgrade your operating system.

• Reinstall your operating system.

• Connect or install a new device.

Advanced Troubleshooting 55

Identifying Drivers

If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.

Click the

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the device icon.

If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver (see page 56).

Reinstalling Drivers

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Dell Dimension ResourceCD provide

approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.

Click the

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Click the

Click

Roll Back Driver

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see page 57) to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.

Start

button and click

Start

button and click

Drivers

tab.

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Properties

56 Advanced Troubleshooting

Using the ResourceCD

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see page 57) does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the ResourceCD.

With the Windows desktop displayed, insert the ResourceCD.

If this is your first time to use the ResourceCD, go to step 2. If not, go to step 5.

When the ResourceCD installation program starts, follow the prompts on the screen.

When the click

When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the ResourceCD.

At the

NOTE: The ResourceCD displays drivers only for hardware that came installed in your computer. If you

installed additional hardware, the drivers for the new hardware might not be displayed by the ResourceCD. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the ResourceCD program. For drivers information, see the documentation that came with the device.

InstallShield Wizard Complete

Finish

to restart the computer.

Welcome Dell System Owner

window appears, remove the ResourceCD and

screen, click

A message stating that the ResourceCD is detecting hardware in your computer appears.

The drivers that are used by your computer are automatically displayed in the

The ResourceCD has identified these components in your system

Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on the screen.

window.

My Drivers—

If a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is not required by your operating system.

Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access help, see page 14.

NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or

recover them.

Creating a Restore Point

Click the

Click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Start

button and click

System Restore

Help and Support

Advanced Troubleshooting 57

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 56) to resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.

NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files

and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

Click the

System Restore

Ensure that

Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

The

Select a Restore Point

points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.

Select a restore point and click

If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected. If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.

Click

The

Restoration Complete

then the computer restarts.

After the computer restarts, click OK.

To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can undo the restoration.

Start

button, point to

All Programs→

Restore my computer to an earlier time

screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore

screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and

Accessories→

System Tools

is selected and click

, and then click

Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open

programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

Click the

System Restore

Click

The

After the computer restarts, click OK.

58 Advanced Troubleshooting

Start

Undo my last restoration

System Restore

button, point to

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

and click

screen appears and the computer restarts.

, and then click

Enabling System Restore

If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:

Click the

Click

Click the

Ensure that

Start

button and click

Control Pane l

Performance and Maintenance

System

System Restore

tab.

Turn off System Restore

is unchecked.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Windows XP IRQ conflicts occur if a device either is not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured.

To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows XP:

Click the

Click

Click the

In the

Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (

if the device has been disabled.

Start

button and click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

Hardware

Device Manager

tab and click

Device Manager

list, check for conflicts with the other devices.

and click

System

) beside the conflicting device or a red

Double-click any conflict to display the

If an IRQ conflict exists, the

Device

Properties

window.

status area in the

Properties

window reports the cards or

devices that share the device's IRQ.

Resolve conflicts by reconfiguring the devices or removing the devices from the

Manager

To use the Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter:

Click the

Ty p e

Click

In the

computer

Start

button and click

hardware troubleshooter

Hardware Troubleshooter

, and click

Help and Support

in the

list, click

in the

field and click the arrow to start the search.

Search Results

list.

I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my

Device

Advanced Troubleshooting 59

Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP

Before You Begin

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback (see page 56). If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see page 57) to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver.

NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For

conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.

To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

• Dell™

Operating System

• Dell ResourceCD

NOTE: The ResourceCD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer. Use the

ResourceCD to load any required drivers.

Reinstalling Windows XP

To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which they are listed.

The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.

NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can

overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.

NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your

computer before you reinstall Windows XP. See the documentation that came with the software for instructions.

Booting From the Operating System CD

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

Insert the

Restart the computer.

Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.

Operating System

If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again.

Press the arrow keys to select

When the

Press any key to boot from CD

60 Advanced Troubleshooting

CD. Click

CD-ROM

Exit

Install Windows XP

, and press <Enter>.

message appears, press any key.

message appears.

Windows XP Setup

When the

now

Read the information on the

Windows XP Setup

screen appears, press <Enter> to select

Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement

To set up Windows

screen, and press

<F8> to accept the license agreement.

If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to recover your current Windows XP data, type

If you want to install a new copy of Windows XP, press <Esc> to select that option.

Press <Enter> to select the highlighted partition (recommended), and follow the

to select the repair option, and remove the CD.

instructions on the screen.

The

Windows XP Setup

screen appears, and the operating system begins to copy files and

install the devices. The computer automatically restarts multiple times.

NOTE: The time required to complete the setup depends on the size of the hard drive and the speed of

your computer.

NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot

from the CD.

When the

location and click

Enter your name and organization (optional) in the click

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition

Regional and Language Options

screen appears, select the settings for your

Personalize Your Software

, at the

What's your computer's name

screen, and

window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the name provided) and click

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional

Password

password, and click

window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the one provided) and a

, at the

Computer Name and Administrator

If the

Modem Dialing Information

Enter the date, time, and time zone in the

If the

Networking Settings

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional and you are prompted to provide further

screen appears, click

screen appears, enter the requested information and click

Date and Time Settings

Typical

and click

window, and click

information regarding your network configuration, enter your selections. If you are unsure of your settings, accept the default selections.

Windows XP installs the operating system components and configures the computer. The computer automatically restarts.

NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot

from the CD.

When the

Welcome to Microsoft

screen appears, click

Advanced Troubleshooting 61

When the

Skip

click

When the click

When the

Click

Finish

Reinstall the appropriate drivers with the ResourceCD.

Reinstall your virus protection software.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Reinstall your programs.

NOTE: To reinstall and activate your Microsoft Office or Microsoft Works Suite programs, you need the

Product Key number located on the back of the Microsoft Office or Microsoft Works Suite CD sleeve.

How will this computer connect to the Internet?

Ready to register with Microsoft?

screen appears, select

No, not at this time

Who will use this computer?

screen appears, you can enter up to five users.

to complete the setup, and remove the CD.

message appears,

and

62 Advanced Troubleshooting

Removing and Installing Parts

Front and Back View of the Computer

Front View

hard-drive activity light The hard-drive light is on when the computer reads data from or writes data to the

hard drive. The light might also be on when a device such as your CD player is operating.

power button Press this button to turn on the computer.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the

computer. Instead, perform a Microsoft

drive door Open the drive door to access the floppy and CD/DVD drives.

front-panel door Open the door to use the front-panel connectors.

Windows® shutdown.

Removing and Installing Parts 63

Front View (Doors Open)

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most kinds of speakers for

listening to all sounds in your computer, including your CD player and system sounds such as beeps.

microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone for voice or

musical input into a sound or telephony program.

USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks

or cameras.

It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.

IEEE 1394 connector Attach high-speed serial multimedia devices, such as a digital video camera.

64 Removing and Installing Parts

Back View

19 18

processor fans (2) For optimal cooling, two processor fans are provided. Do not block the vents.

cover latch release To open the computer, lay the computer on its side with the cover latch release at the

top and then push the latch to the left. See "Opening the Computer Cover" on page 70.

VGA video connector If your monitor has a DVI connector, plug it into the DVI connector on the computer.

If your monitor has a VGA connector, plug it into the VGA connector on the computer.

security cable slot Use a security cable with the slot to help secure your computer.

padlock ring Insert a padlock to lock the computer cover.

power connector Insert the power cable.

power supply fans For optimal cooling, two power supply fans are provided. Do not block the vents.

card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI (4 slots) and AGP cards (1 slot).

Removing and Installing Parts 65

PCI sound card with IEEE 1394

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

modem connector If you have a modem, connect a telephone cable to the modem connector (optional).

DVI video connector If your monitor has a DVI connector, plug it into the DVI connector on the computer.

network adapter connector

• Line-in connector — Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a cassette player, CD player, or VCR.

• Microphone connector — Use the pink microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

• Line-out connector — Use the green line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with integrated amplifiers.

• Surround connector — Use the black surround connector to attach multichannelcapable speakers.

• Center/LFE connector — Use the yellow center/Low-Frequency Effects (LFE) connector to attach your subwoofer.

• IEEE 1394 connector — Attach high-speed serial multimedia devices, such as a digital video camera.

NOTE: For optimum performance, install a PCI sound card only in PCI slot 3 or 4.

NOTE: For optimum performance, install a modem card only in PCI slot 2, 3, or 4.

If your monitor has a VGA connector, plug it into the VGA connector on the computer.

To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a network cable to either a network jack or to your network or broadband device. Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back panel of your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached.

On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card.

It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your network. If you must use Category 3 wiring, force the network speed to 10 Mbps to ensure reliable operation.

66 Removing and Installing Parts

network or broadband jack

USB 2.0 connectors (6) Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as

printers and keyboards.

It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras.

keyboard connector If you have a standard keyboard, plug it into the purple keyboard connector. If you

have a USB keyboard, plug it into a USB connector.

mouse connector Plug a standard mouse into the green mouse connector. Turn off the computer and

any attached devices before you connect a mouse to the computer. If you have a USB mouse, plug it into a USB connector.

diagnostic lights (4) Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem based on the diagnostic

code. For more information, see "Diagnostics Lights" on page 49.

serial connector (COM 2)

parallel connector Connect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel connector. If you have a

serial connector (COM 1)

Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port.

USB printer, plug it into a USB connector.

Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port.

Removing and Installing Parts 67

Before You Begin

This section provides procedures for removing and replacing the components. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:

• You have performed the steps in "Precautionary Measures" (see page 68).

• You have read the safety information on page 9

• You have opened the computer cover.

Recommended Tools

Your computer is primarily a tool-less one, but certain procedures (such as removing the heat-sink

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

blower or the control panel) require the use of one or more of the following tools:

• Small flat-blade screwdriver

• #1 and #2 Phillips-head screwdriver

• An 8-inch, #2 Phillips-head screwdriver

It is recommended that you use a wrist grounding strap as explained in "Precautionary Measures" (see page 68).

Precautionary Measures

Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to ensure your own personal safety.

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

page 9.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to service the computer yourself, except as explained in your online Dell™

documentation or in instructions otherwise provided to you by Dell. Always follow installation and service instructions closely.

NOTICE: To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds (or wait until the standby

light is extinguished) after turning off the computer and unplugging the power cable before removing a component from the system board or disconnecting a device from the computer.

Before you start to work on the computer, perform the following steps in the sequence listed:

Shut down the computer through the

Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.

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 telecommunication lines from the computer.

68 Removing and Installing Parts

Start

menu.

Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.

NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted

metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.

In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate:

Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.

You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD):

• When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the component in your computer. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, be sure to discharge static electricity from your body.

• When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or packaging.

• Handle all sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads.

Removing and Installing Parts 69

Opening the Computer Cover

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

page 9.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet

before opening the cover.

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

If you have installed a padlock through the padlock ring on the back panel, remove the padlock.

NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to accommodate the open cover—at least 30 cm (1 ft) of

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

desk top space.

NOTICE: Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not accidentally

disconnect cables from the system board.

Lay the computer on its side with the cover latch release on the top as shown in the following

figure.

Open the computer cover:

Slide the cover latch release toward the top of the computer.

Raise the cover, and pivot it toward the front of the computer.

70 Removing and Installing Parts

cover latch release

security cable slot

padlock ring

Removing and Installing Parts 71

Inside View of Your Computer

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

processor airflow shroud

processor fans (2)

floppy drive

CD/DVD drive

hard drive

card fan

system board

72 Removing and Installing Parts

power supply fans (2)

power supply

System Board Components

hard-drive connector (PRI_IDE)

econdary drive connector (SEC_IDE)

floppy-drive connector (FDD)

memory module connectors (2, 4)

power connector (PWR)

memory module connectors (1, 3)

processor and heatsink connector (CPU_PIN_#_A1)

rear fan connector (REAR_FAN2)

rear fan connector (REAR_FAN1)

password jumper (PASS)

battery socket (BATTERY)

SCSI_LED header (SCSI_LED)

front-panel connector (FRONT_PANEL)

standby power light (PWR_LED)

serial ATA connector (SATA_1)

internal speaker (SPKR)

clear CMOS jumper (CMOS)

front fan (FRONT_FAN)

serial ATA connector (SATA_0)

AGP card connector (AGP)

PCI card connectors (PCI_SLOT_1, PCI_SLOT_2, PCI_SLOT_3, PCI_SLOT_4)

power connector (12V_PWR)

Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 105.

NOTE: DDR 333 memory operates at 320-MHz when used with an 800-MHz front-side bus processor.

Removing and Installing Parts 73

DDR Memory Overview

DDR memory modules should be installed in purchased your computer with 256 MB of memory installed and you want to add another 256 MB of memory, you must install it in the appropriate connector. If the DDR memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance.

NOTE: Always install DDR memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.

The recommended memory configurations are:

• A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

• A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2 and another matched pair installed in connectors DIMM3 and DIMM4

Additional memory recommendations include:

• Do not install ECC memory modules.

• Be sure to install a single memory module in DIMM 1 or the connector closest to the processor before you install modules in the other connectors.

Memory Installation Guidelines

pairs of matched memory size

. This means that if you

matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM3 and DIMM4

matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2

NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade,

keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in connectors DIMM1 and

DIMM2 or connectors DIMM3 and DIMM4. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new

memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not function at optimal performance.

NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.

74 Removing and Installing Parts

Installing Memory

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

page 9.

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer.

If necessary, remove a memory module:

Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

Grasp the module and pull up.

If the module is difficult to remove, gently ease the module back and forth to remove it from the connector.

To insert a module, press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

memory connector closest to processor

securing clips (2)

connector

Removing and Installing Parts 75

Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTICE: To avoid breaking the memory module, do not press near the middle of the module.

Insert the module straight down into the connector, ensuring that it fits into the vertical

guides at each end of the connector. Press firmly on the ends of the module until it snaps into place.

If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the module.

notch

memory module

cutouts (2)

crossbar

Close the computer cover (see page 102).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Click the

To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.

Start

button, right-click

General

76 Removing and Installing Parts

tab.

My Computer

, and then click

Properties

PCI Cards

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

page 9.

Your Dell™ computer provides slots for up to four 32-bit, 33-MHz cards. For more information, see "Specifications" on page 105.

NOTE: For optimum performance, install a PCI sound card only in PCI slot 3 or 4 and a modem card only

in PCI slot 2, 3, or 4.

Installing a PCI Card

If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm.

filler bracket

retention arm

If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then

card

lever

edge connector

card connector

continue with step 7.

If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card (see page 79).

If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.

Removing and Installing Parts 77

Prepare the card for installation.

See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.

CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a

network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.

Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in

the slot.

If the card is full-length, insert the end of the card into the card guide bracket as you lower the card toward its connector on the system board. Insert the card firmly into the card connector

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

on the system board.

not fully seated card

fully seated card

Before you lower the retention arm, ensure that:

bracket within slot

• The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.

• The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

bracket caught outside of slot

78 Removing and Installing Parts

Press the retention arm into place, securing the card(s) in the computer.

filler bracket

alignment guide

alignment bar

retention arm

NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent

the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.

Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.

See the documentation for the card for information about the card’s cable connections.

Close the computer cover (see page 102).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.

Removing a PCI Card

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm.

If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card.

Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.

If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening.

If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see page 112).

Removing and Installing Parts 79

NOTE: You must install filler brackets over empty card-slot openings to maintain FCC certification of the

computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.

Lower the retention arm and press it into place, securing the card(s) in the computer.

Close the computer cover (see page 102).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Remove the card’s driver from the operating system.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

page 9.

Your Dell™ computer provides a connector for an AGP card.

Removing an AGP Card

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm.

AGP Cards

AGP card

lever

edge connector

AGP connector

PCI connector

retention arm

Pull the card up and out of the card clip.

80 Removing and Installing Parts

Installing an AGP Card

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm.

AGP card

lever

edge connector

AGP connector

PCI connector

retention arm

Gently press the card into the AGP connector until it clicks into place, ensuring that the tab fits into the notch on the front end of the card.

Lower the retention arm and press it into place, securing the card(s) in the computer.

Close the computer cover (see page 102).

Connect the monitor cable to the card’s video connector.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

Drives

Overview

Your computer supports one floppy drive and a combination of up to four of the following:

• Either two IDE hard drives or two Serial ATA hard drives.

• Two CD or DVD drives.

Removing and Installing Parts 81

Your computer also supports this drive combination:

• Two Serial ATA drives in either a RAID level 0 configuration or a RAID level 1 configuration.

• One IDE hard drive.

• Two CD or DVD drives.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

floppy drive

CD/DVD drives

hard drives

Hard Drive

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

page 9.

Removing a Hard Drive

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

82 Removing and Installing Parts

Disconnect the power and hard-drive cables from the drive.

power cable

tabs (2)

IDE harddrive cable

IDE hard drive

system board connector

IDE hard drive example serial ATA hard drive example

power cable

tabs (2)

serial ATA hard drive

serial ATA harddrive cable

system board connector

Press in on the tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out.

Installing a Hard Drive

Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation.

Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

If your replacement hard drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive. Attach the bracket rails to the new drive by aligning the screw holes on the drive with the screw holes on the bracket rails and then inserting and tightening all four screws (two screws on each rail).

Removing and Installing Parts 83

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Install the hard drive into the computer by gently sliding the drive into place until you hear it click securely.

drive

bracket rails (2)

screws (4)

power cable

tabs (2)

IDE harddrive cable

IDE hard drive

system board connector

IDE hard drive example serial ATA hard drive example

power cable

tabs (2)

serial ATA hard drive

serial ATA harddrive cable

system board connector

84 Removing and Installing Parts

Connect the power and hard-drive cables to the drive.

Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.

Close the computer cover (see page 70).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.

Floppy Drive

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

page 9.

Removing a Floppy Drive

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Disconnect the power and floppy-drive cables from the back of the floppy drive.

Removing and Installing Parts 85

floppy-drive cable

power cable

tabs (2)

floppy drive

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive, slide the drive upward, and remove it from the floppy-drive bay.

Installing a Floppy Drive

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

If you are replacing a drive and the new drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive. Attach the bracket to the new drive by aligning the screw holes on the drive with the screw holes on the bracket rails and then inserting and tightening all four screws (two screws on each rail). See the diagram on page 83.

Gently slide the drive into place until the tabs securely click into position.

86 Removing and Installing Parts

floppy-drive cable

power cable

tabs (2)

floppy drive

Attach the power and floppy-drive cables to the floppy drive.

If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front-panel inserts.

From inside the drive bay, gently press on each side of the insert until it pops out.

Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.

Close the computer cover (see page 102).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.

Removing and Installing Parts 87

CD/DVD Drive

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

page 9.

Removing a CD/DVD Drive

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Disconnect the power and CD/DVD drive cables from the back of the drive.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

power cable

tabs (2)

CD/DVD drive cable

audio cable*

* Some drives do not

have the audio cable.

Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive, and then slide the drive upward and

CD/DVD drive

remove it from the drive bay.

88 Removing and Installing Parts

Installing a CD/DVD Drive

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.

Check the documentation that accompanied the drive to verify that the drive is configured for your computer. If you are installing an IDE drive, configure the drive for the cable select setting.

Connect the new drive to the set of rails that are attached to the inside of the cover. If a set of rails is not attached inside the computer cover, contact Dell (see page 112).

If you are installing a replacement drive and the new drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive. Attach the bracket to the new drive by aligning the screw holes on the drive with the screw holes on the bracket rails and then inserting and tightening all four screws (two screws on each rail). See the diagram on page 83).

Removing and Installing Parts 89

Gently slide the drive into place until the tabs securely click into position.

power cable

tabs (2)

CD/DVD drive cable

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Connect the power and CD/DVD drive cables to the drive.

If you are adding a drive that has an audio cable, connect the audio cable to the audio connector on the audio card.

audio cable*

* Some drives do not

CD/DVD drive

have the audio cable.

If you are installing a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the frontpanel inserts.

From inside the drive bay, gently press on each side of the insert until it pops out.

If you are installing a drive that has its own controller card, install the controller card in an expansion slot.

See the documentation that accompanied the drive and controller card to verify that the configuration is correct for your computer..

90 Removing and Installing Parts

Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.

Close the computer cover (see page 102).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.

Processor Airflow Shroud

CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, follow the safety instructions on page 9.

Removing the Processor Airflow Shroud

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Press down and back on the indentations at the top corners of the shroud.

The top anchor tabs disengage from the anchor slots.

Lift the airflow shroud out of the chassis.

Removing and Installing Parts 91

top anchor tabs (2)

airflow shroud

side anchor tabs (2)

ottom anchor tabs (2)

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Installing the Processor Airflow Shroud

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Insert the bottom anchor tabs into the anchor slots.

Align and insert the side anchor tabs into the anchor slots.

Press the indentations until the top anchor tabs on the shroud snap securely into place.

Close the computer cover (see page 102).

indentations (2)

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

92 Removing and Installing Parts

Processor

CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, follow the safety instructions on page 9.

Installing the Processor

NOTE: It is recommended that only a technically knowledgeable person perform this procedure.

CAUTION: The processor can get very hot during normal operation. Ensure that the processor has had

sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Remove the processor airflow shroud (see page 91).

If you are replacing a processor, follow steps 4, 5, and 6 in "Removing the Processor" on page 95.

NOTICE: You must position the processor correctly in the socket to avoid permanent damage to the

processor and the computer.

If the release lever is not extended to the release position, move it to that position.

Align pin-1 (the imprinted corner) of the processor and pin-1 of the socket.

NOTICE: Processor pins are delicate. To avoid damage, ensure that the processor aligns properly with

the socket, and do not use excessive force when you install the processor.

Carefully set the processor in the socket and press it down lightly to seat it.

Rotate the release lever back toward the system board until it snaps into place, securing the processor.

Removing and Installing Parts 93

pin-1 corners of processor and socket aligned

socket lever

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Install the heat sink:

Insert the notched end of the heat sink onto the end of the retention base that is opposite the hinge.

Lower the heat sink until it fits securely in the base.

When the heat sink is secured, pivot the rentention module clip back until the tab snaps into place to secure the heat sink.

If you installed a processor replacement kit from Dell, return the original heat sink assembly and processor to Dell in the same package in which your replacement kit was sent.

Replace the airflow shroud (see page 92).

Close the computer cover (see page 102).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

processor

processor socket

94 Removing and Installing Parts

Removing the Processor

NOTE: It is recommended that only a technically knowledgeable person perform this procedure.

CAUTION: The processor can get very hot during normal operation. Ensure that the processor has had

sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Remove the processor airflow shroud (see page 91).

Remove the processor heat sink:

Remove the retention module clip by pressing in on the tab and lifting the retention module clip up.

Pull the release lever out until the heat sink is released.

Lift the heat sink away from the processor.

retention module clip

retention module

heat sink

processor socket

release tab

NOTICE: Lay the heat sink down with the thermal grease facing upward.

NOTICE: If you are installing a processor upgrade kit from Dell, discard the original heat sink. If you are

not installing a processor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original heat sink when you install your new

processor.

Pull the release lever straight up until the processor is released.

NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you remove the processor from the socket.

Bending the pins can permanently damage the processor.

Removing and Installing Parts 95

release lever

processor

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Remove the processor from the socket.

If you are replacing the processor, leave the release lever extended in the release position so that the socket is ready for the new processor and go to "Installing the Processor" on page 93.

Replace the airflow shroud (see page 92).

Close the computer cover (see page 102).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into

the computer.

Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

Front Panel

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

page 9.

Removing the Front Panel

Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 68.

Open the computer cover (see page 70).

Disconnect and remove all disk drives (see "Drives" on page 81).

Release the front panel by pressing each of the front-panel release tabs.

There are seven release tabs.

socket

96 Removing and Installing Parts

Close the computer cover halfway and pull the front panel away from the computer.

Replacing the Front Panel

To replace the front panel, perform the removal procedure in reverse.

Removing and Installing Parts 97

Drive Door

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

page 9.

Removing the Drive Door

Open the drive door.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

98 Removing and Installing Parts

Unsnap the top bracket hinge and pull the top of the drive door outward, away from the computer.

top bracket hinge

bottom bracket hinge

Lift the bottom bracket hinge away from the computer.

Replacing the Drive Door

To prevent damage to your computer, the drive door is designed to "break away" from the computer if it is opened too far. If the drive door detaches from the computer without disassembling, perform the removal procedure in reverse.

If the drive door is open and it is opened too far, instead of breaking away from the computer in one piece, the drive door may disassemble into several smaller pieces. If the drive door disassembles:

If necessary, reattach the door hinges to the door bracket. Ensure that the hinge tabs are away from the door bracket.

Removing and Installing Parts 99

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Attach the door bracket/door hinge assembly to the door, starting with the lower part of each door hinge.

hinge tab

door hinges (2)

door bracket

door bracket/door hinge assembly

door

Attach the drive door to the computer, starting with the bottom bracket hinge.

100 Removing and Installing Parts

lower part of the door hinge

Dell XPS User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

CAUTION: Safety Instructions

SAFETY: General

SAFETY: When Using Your Computer

SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer

SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits

SAFETY: Battery Disposal

Finding Information for Your Computer

Using Your Computer

Opening the Drive Door

Connecting Two Monitors

Configuring Graphics Cards

Settings and Functions

Removing the Graphics Card Driver

About Serial ATA Drives

About Your RAID Configuration

RAID Level 0

RAID Level 1

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs

Helpful Tips

Network Setup Wizard

Turning Off Your Computer

Optimizing Performance

Intel® Performance Acceleration Technology

DDR Memory and Processor Front-Side Bus

Hyper-Threading

Overclocking

Solving Problems

Finding Solutions

Finding Help Information

Battery Problems

Drive Problems

Floppy drive problems

CD drive problems

Problems writing to a CD-RW drive

DVD drive problems

Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

General Problems

The computer stops responding

A program stops responding

A program crashes repeatedly

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

A solid blue screen appears

Other software problems

Other technical problems

General hardware problems

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

Mouse Problems

Network Problems

Power Problems

Printer Problems

Scanner Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

No sound from speakers

No sound from headphones

Video and Monitor Problems

If the screen is blank

If the screen is difficult to read

Advanced Troubleshooting

Diagnostic Lights

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

Starting the Dell Diagnostics

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

Drivers

What Is a Driver?

Identifying Drivers

Reinstalling Drivers

Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore