Dell XPS 400 User Manual

Download

Page 1

Dell™ XPS 400

Owner’s Manual

CD or DVD eject button

CD or DVD activity light

FlexBays (2) for optional floppy drive or optional Media Card Reader

microphone connector

headphone connector

diagnostic lights

hard-drive activity light

power button

USB 2.0 connectors (2)

Service Tag

cover latch release

power connector

sound-card connectors (5)

network adapter

USB 2.0 connectors (5)

Model DCTA

card slots for PCI Express x1 (1), PCI Express x16 (1), PCI Express x4 (1), PCI (3)

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Page 2

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

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

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the

problem.

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

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, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault,

PowerApp, DellNet, and PowerConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Pentium, and Intel SpeedStep are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook 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 DCTA

November 2005 P/N WD741 Rev. A02

Page 3

Contents

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Printer Cable

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

Connecting a USB Printer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Playing CDs and DVDs

Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD Using Blank CDs and DVDs Helpful Tips

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

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Connecting Two Monitors

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

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Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One

Monitor With a DVI Connector Connecting a TV

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

Changing the Display Settings

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter Network Setup Wizard

Power Management

Standby Mode Hibernate Mode

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

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

Power Options Properties

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

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IEEE 1394

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

Contents 3

Page 4

Hyper-Threading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

About Your RAID Configuration

RAID Level 0 Configuration RAID Level 1 Configuration Configuring Your Computer for RAID Configuring for RAID Using the Intel Configuring for RAID Using the Intel

Understanding Intel

Using Intel

Viiv™ Technology (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Viiv™ Quick Resume Technology (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Enabling the QRT Feature in System Setup Enabling the QRT feature in the Operating system

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

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

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

RAID Option ROM Utility . . . . . . 30

Application Accelerator . . . . . . 32

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

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

2 Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Battery Problems

Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

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

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4 Contents

Error Messages

Media Card Reader Problems

Keyboard Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up The computer stops responding A program stops responding A program crashes repeatedly

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

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A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system A solid blue screen appears Other software problems

Memory Problems

Mouse Problems

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

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Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

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

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

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3 Troubleshooting Tools

Diagnostic Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Dell Diagnostics

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

Drivers

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

What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers

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

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

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

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft

Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

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

4 Removing and Installing Parts

Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Recommended Tools Turn Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer

Front View of the Computer

Back View of the Computer

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

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Contents 5

Page 6

Removing the Computer Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Inside View of Your Computer

System Board Components

Memory

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

Memory Overview Installing Memory Removing Memory

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

Cards

PCI Cards

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

PCI Express Cards

Drive Panels

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

Removing the Drive Panel Removing the Drive-Panel Insert Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert Replacing the Drive Panel

Drives

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

General Installation Guidelines

Hard Drive

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Removing a Hard Drive Installing a Hard Drive Adding a Second Hard Drive

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

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6 Contents

Floppy Drive

Media Card Reader

CD/DVD Drive

Battery

Replacing the Computer Cover

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

Removing a Floppy Drive Installing a Floppy Drive

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

Removing a Media Card Reader Installing a Media Card Reader

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

Removing a CD/DVD Drive Installing a CD/DVD Drive

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

Replacing the Battery

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

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Page 7

5 Appendix

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

System Setup

Overview Entering System Setup System Setup Options Boot Sequence

Clearing Forgotten Passwords

Clearing CMOS Settings

Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor Mouse Floppy Drive CDs and DVDs

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

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

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Class A Class B

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

FCC Identification Information

Contacting Dell

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

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. . . . . . . . . 124

. . . . . . . . . . . 124

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Contents 7

Page 8

8 Contents

Page 9

Finding Information

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Warranty information

• Terms and conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

• How to set up my computer

Dell™ Product Information Guide

NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at

support.dell.com.

Setup Diagram

Finding Information 9

Page 10

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

• Microsoft Windows License Label

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Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License

These labels are located on your computer.

• Use the Service Tag to

• Enter the Express

identify your computer when you

support.dell.com

use or contact technical support.

Service Code to direct your call when contacting technical support. The Express Service Code is not available in all countries.

10 Finding Information

Page 11

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers

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

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support

site.

NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers

can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website at premier.support.dell.com. The website may not be available in all regions.

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

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

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

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software updates

• Desktop System Software (DSS)— If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the DSS utility. DSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell™

3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel

Pentium®M processors, optical drives, and USB devices. DSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration.

To download Desktop System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

Enter your Service Tag or product model.

In the

Download Category

Select the operating system and operating system language for your computer, and click

Under

Select a Device Configuration Utilities Software

and click

Downloads

drop-down menu, click

Submit.

, scroll to

, and click

System and

Dell Desktop System

All

Finding Information 11

Page 12

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to use Windows XP

• Documentation for my computer

• Documentation for devices (such as a modem)

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Windows Help and Support Center

Click the

Start

button and click

Help and Support

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

Click the topic that describes your problem. Follow the instructions on the screen.

12 Finding Information

Page 13

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up a Printer

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

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

• Obtain and install updated drivers

• Connect the printer to the computer

• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge

• Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance

Printer Cable

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 13

Page 14

Connecting a USB Printer

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

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

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

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

USB connector on computer

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Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

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

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

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

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

USB printer cable

USB connector on printer

14 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 15

NOTE: If you use a dial-up connection, you need an add-in PCI modem expansion card.

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

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an AOL or MSN connection:

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

Double-click the

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an Internet connection with a different ISP:

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

Click the

The

Click

In the next window, click the appropriate option:

Start

New Connection Wizard

Connect to the Internet

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

service providers (ISPs)

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

• If you have a CD, click

Click

If you selected instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

MSN Explorer

button and click

AOL

Internet Explorer

appears.

Set up my connection manually

Use the CD I got from an ISP

Set up my connection manually

icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an

Choose from a list of Internet

, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the

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

Click the appropriate option under

click

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

How do you want to connect to the Internet?

, and then

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 39. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15

Page 16

Playing CDs and DVDs

NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when

you are not using the drive.

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

Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.

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Press the eject button or gently push in the tray.

To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer.

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

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

Play

Move backward within the current track

Pau se

Move forward within the current track

Stop

Go to the previous track

16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 17

Eject

Go to the next track

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:

Stop

Restart the current chapter

Play

Fast forward

Pau se

Fast reverse

Advance a single frame while in pause mode

Go to the next title or chapter

Continuously play the current title or chapter

Go to the previous title or chapter

Eject

Help

For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click

on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Adjusting the Volume

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

Click the

Volume Control

In the slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.

For more information on volume control options, click

Start

button, point to

Volume Control

All Programs → Accessories→ Entertainment

window, click and drag the bar in the

Help

in the

, and then click

Volume Control

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 17

column and

window.

Page 18

Adjusting the Picture

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

Click the

Under

Pick a category

Under

Pick a task...

In the

Display Properties

setting to

Click the drop-down menu under

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Click OK.

Copying CDs and DVDs

NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when creating CDs or DVDs.

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

NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.

The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic DigitalMedia for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Sonic DigitalMedia and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.

Start

button and click

, click

window, click and drag the bar in

800 by 600 pixels

Control Panel

Appearance and Themes

Change the screen resolution

Color quality

, and then click

Screen resolution

Medium (16 bit)

to change the

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive

and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at www.sonic.com.

The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.

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

DigitalMedia.

Click the click

Under the

18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Copy

Start

button, point to

Copy

tab, click

All Programs→

Disc Copy

Sonic→ DigitalMedia Projects

, and then

Page 19

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

If you have one CD or DVD drive

button. The computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies the data to a

Copy

temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

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

, ensure that the settings are correct and click the

Disc

If you have two CD or DVD drives

• source CD or DVD and click the

, select the drive into which you have inserted your

Disc Copy

button. The computer copies the data from

the source CD or DVD to the blank CD or DVD.

Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created automatically ejects.

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed CD-RW) while DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.

Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.

Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+/-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.

CD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No

C D- RW Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R Yes Yes No

DVD-R Yes Yes No

DV D +R W Yes Ye s Ye s

DV D -R W Ye s Ye s Ye s

DVD+R DL Yes Yes No

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 19

Page 20

Media Type Read Write Rewritable

DVD-R DL Maybe No No

DVD-RAM Maybe No No

Helpful Tips

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

• Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos.

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• You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic DigitalMedia.

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

• Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may not support all available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by your DVD player, see the documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer.

• Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1–2 MB of the blank space to finalize the recording.

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

• See the Sonic website at

www.sonic.com

for additional information.

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Use the Media Card Reader to transfer data directly to your computer.

The Media Card Reader supports the following memory types:

•xD-Picture Card

• SmartMedia (SMC)

• CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II)

• MicroDrive Card

• SecureDigital Card (SD)

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

• Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)

20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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For information on installing a Media Card Reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on page 101.

Memory Stick

xD-Picture Card and SmartMedia (SMC)

CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II) and MicroDrive Card

SecureDigital Card (SD)/ MultiMediaCard (MMC)

(MS/MS Pro)

To use the Media Card Reader:

Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion.

Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector.

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

Connecting Two Monitors

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

Product Information Guide.

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

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.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 21

Page 22

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

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

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

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

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optional DVI adapter

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

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

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

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

DVI (white) connector

TV-OUT connector

VGA (blue) connector

22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 23

Connecting a TV

NOTE: To connect a TV 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.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

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

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

Connect the VGA or DVI monitor.

Changing the Display Settings

After you connect the monitor(s) or TV, turn on the computer.

The Microsoft

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

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

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

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

guides

, click

Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.

Device guides

Start

button, click

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

Help and Support

, click

User and system

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

NOTICE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the computer. Do not plug the

network cable into the modem connector on the computer. Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack.

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

Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.

Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 23

Page 24

network adapter connector

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network adapter connector on computer

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 click

Network Setup Wizard

On the welcome screen, click

Click

Checklist for creating a network

Start

button, point to

network device

network cable

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

, and then

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

integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack.

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

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

Power Management

The Microsoft® Windows® XP power management features can reduce the amount of electricity your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can reduce power to just the monitor or the hard drive, or you can use standby mode or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire computer. When the computer exits from a power conservation mode, the Windows desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode.

NOTE: Windows XP Professional includes security and networking features not available in

Windows XP Home Edition. When a Windows XP Professional computer is connected to a network, different options related to security and networking appear in certain windows.

24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 25

Standby Mode

Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out. When the computer exits from standby mode, it returns to the operating state it was in before it entered standby mode.

To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity:

Click the

Under

To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click the

Turn Off Computer

To exit from standby mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data.

Start

button and click

Pick a category

or pick a Control Panel icon

, click

, and then click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

Stand by

, click

Power Options

Start

button, click

Hibernate Mode

Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits from hibernate mode, the desktop is restored to the state it was in

To activate hibernate mode:

Click the

Under

Define your hibernate settings on the Power

To exit from hibernate mode from hibernate mode. Pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the computer out of hibernation, because the keyboard and the mouse do not function when the computer is in hibernate mode.

Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you. If the computer’s hard drive becomes corrupted, Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.

Start

button and click

Pick a category

or pick a Control Panel icon

, click

press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit

before it entered hibernate mode.

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

, click

Power Options

Schemes

tab,

Advanced

tab, and

Hibernate

tab.

Power Options Properties

Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the

Options Properties

Click the

Under

Start

Pick a category

window. To access the

button and click

, click

Performance and Maintenance

Power Options Properties

Control Panel

window:

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 25

Power

Page 26

Under

or pick a Control Panel icon

Define your power settings on the Power

Power Schemes Tab

Each standard power setting is called a scheme. If you want to select one of the standard Windows schemes installed on your computer, choose a scheme from the The settings for each scheme appear in the fields below the scheme name. Each scheme has different settings for starting standby mode or hibernate mode, turning off the monitor, and turning off the hard drive.

The

Power schemes

•

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Always On

Home/Office Desk

• minimal power conservation.

•

Presentation

conservation).

•

Minimal Power Management

conservation.

•

Max Battery

batteries for extended periods of time.

If you want to change the default settings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the

monitor

Turn off hard disks, System stand by

out from the displayed list. Changing the time-out for a scheme field permanently changes the default settings for that scheme, unless you click scheme.

, click

Power Options

Schemes

tab,

Advanced

tab, and

Power schemes

Hibernate

tab.

drop-down menu.

drop-down menu displays the following schemes:

(default) — If you want to use your computer with no power conservation.

— If you use your computer as a home or office computer and you require

— If you want your computer to run without interruption (using no power

— If you want your computer to run with minimal power

— If your computer is a portable computer and you run your computer from

Tur n of f

, or

System hibernates

Save As

and enter a new name for the changed

field, and then select a time-

NOTICE: If you set the hard drive (hard disk) to time-out before the monitor does, your computer may

appear to be locked up. To recover, press any key on the keyboard or click the mouse. To avoid this problem, always set the monitor to time-out before the hard drive.

Advanced Tab

The

Advanced

tab allows you to:

• Place the power options icon in the Windows taskbar for quick access.

• Set the computer to prompt you for your Windows password before the computer exits from standby mode or hibernate mode.

• Program the power button to activate standby mode, activate hibernate mode, or turn off the computer.

To program these functions, click an option from the corresponding drop-down menu and click

26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 27

Hibernate Tab

The

Hibernate

you defined on the

Hibernate

For more information on power management options:

Click the

In the

tab allows you to enable hibernate mode. If you want to use the hibernate settings

Power Schemes

tab.

Start

button and click

Help and Support

Performance and maintenance

tab, click the

Help and Support

window, click

Enable hibernate support

Performance and maintenance

window, click

Conserving power on your computer

check box on the

IEEE 1394

IEEE 1394 is a digital interface that can move large amounts of data between computers and peripheral devices. IEEE 1394 is ideal for use with multimedia devices because it speeds the transfer of data and large files, which enables a computer to connect directly to devices such as digital video cameras.

NOTE: The connector can accept 4-pin IEEE 1394 devices with the use of an adapter.

Your computer may have an optional front IEEE 1394 connector (see "Front View of the Computer" on page 65). This connector is only available if you purchased an add-in card that uses IEEE 1394. To purchase a card, contact Dell.

Hyper-Threading

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 (SP1) or later operating 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 is enabled, the processor is listed twice.

You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. For more information on accessing system setup, see page 114. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the Knowledge Base on the Dell Support website at

Start

button, right-click

Hardware

Device Manager

and click

My Computer

Device Manager

window, click the plus (+) sign next to

, and then click

support.dell.com

Windows® XP Service Pack 1

Properties

Processors

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 27

. If Hyper-Threading

Page 28

About Your RAID Configuration

This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration that you might have selected when you purchased your computer. Although several RAID configurations are available, Dell offers either a RAID level 0 configuration or a RAID level 1 configuration for its Dimension™ computers. A RAID level 0 configuration is recommended for high-performance gaming, and a RAID level 1 configuration is recommended for the data integrity requirements of digital photography and audio.

The Intel using two or three physical drives. If a third drive is present, then that drive can be made part of a RAID level 0 configuration using the Intel RAID configuration program, or it can be used as a

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

spare drive in a RAID level 1 configuration (see "Creating a Spare Hard Drive" on page 35). The drives should be the same size in order to ensure that the larger drive does not contain unallocated (and therefore unusable) space.

RAID Level 0 Configuration

A RAID level 0 configuration 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.

RAID controller on your computer can only create a RAID level 0 configuration

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.

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

28 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

segment 1

segment 3

segment 5

hard drive 1

serial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 0

segment 2

segment 4

segment 6

hard drive 2

Page 29

NOTICE: Because RAID level 0 configurations provide 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 Configuration

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.

serial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 1

segment 1

segment 2

segment 3

segment 4

segment 5

segment 6

hard drive 1

segment 1 duplicated

segment 2 duplicated

segment 3 duplicated

segment 4 duplicated

segment 5 duplicated

segment 6 duplicated

hard drive 2

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

Configuring Your Computer for RAID

At some point you may want to configure your computer for RAID if you did not select a RAID configuration when you purchased your computer. You must have at least two hard drives installed in your computer to set up a RAID configuration. For instructions on how to install a hard drive, see page 92.

You can use one of two methods to configure RAID hard drive volumes. One method uses the

Intel

RAID Option ROM utility and is performed before you install the operating system onto

the hard drive. The second method uses the Intel Matrix Storage Manager, or Intel Matrix Storage Console, and this method is performed after you have installed the operating system

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 29

Page 30

and the Intel Matrix Storage Console. Both methods require that you set your computer to RAID-enabled mode before starting any of the RAID configuration procedures in this document.

Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode

Enter system setup (see page 113).

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight

Drives

, and press <Enter>.

SATA Operation

RAID On

, press <Enter>, and then

, and press <Enter>.

press <Esc>.

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NOTE: For more information about RAID options, see "System Setup Options" on page 116.

Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight setup and resume the boot process.

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel® RAID Option ROM Utility

NOTE: Although any size drives may be used to create a RAID configuration using the Intel RAID Option

ROM utility, ideally the drives should be of equal size. In a RAID level 0 configuration, the size of the configuration will be the size of the smallest drive multiplied by the number (two) of drives in the configuration. In a RAID level 1 configuration, the size of the configuration will be the smaller of the two drives used.

Creating a RAID Level 0 Configuration

NOTICE: You will lose any data on your hard drives when you create a RAID configuration using the

following procedure. Back up data you want to keep before continuing.

NOTE: Use the following procedure only if you are reinstalling your operating system. Do not use the

following procedure to migrate an existing storage configuration to RAID level 0 configuration.

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 30).

Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter the Intel® RAID Option ROM utility.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default, and press <Enter>.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select

If there are more than two hard drives available, press the up- and down-arrow keys and spacebar to select the two or three drives you want to use to make up your configuration, and then press <Enter>.

Save/Exit

, and press <Enter> to exit system

Create RAID Volume

RAID0(Stripe)

, and press <Enter>.

NOTE: Select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to store on the RAID volume. If

you do not know the average file size, choose 128 KB as your strip size.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to change the strip size, and press <Enter>.

30 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 31

Select the desired capacity for the volume, and press <Enter>. The default value is the maximum available size.

Press <Enter> to create the volume.

Press <y> to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.

Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main Intel® RAID Option ROM utility screen.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select

Install the operating system (see "Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 60).

Creating a RAID Level 1 Configuration

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 30).

Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default, and press <Enter>.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select

If there are more than two hard drives available, press the up- and down-arrow keys and

Exit

, and press <Enter>.

Create RAID Volume

RAID1(Mirror)

, and press <Enter>.

spacebar to select the two drives you want to use to make up your volume, and then press <Enter>.

Select the desired capacity for the volume, and press <Enter>. The default value is the maximum available size.

Press <Enter> to create the volume.

Press <y> to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.

Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main Intel RAID Option ROM utility screen.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select

Install the operating system (see "Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 60).

Exit

, and press <Enter>.

Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.

NOTE: If your computer currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume in the Intel RAID Option

ROM utility, your computer will become unbootable.

Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the RAID volume you want to delete, and press

Delete RAID Volume

, and press <Enter>.

<Delete>.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 31

Page 32

Press <y> to confirm the deletion of the RAID volume.

Press <Esc> to exit the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel® Application Accelerator

If you already have one hard drive with the operating system installed on it, and you want to add a second hard drive and reconfigure both drives into a RAID volume without losing the existing operating system and any data, you need to use the migrating option (see "Migrating to a RAID Level 0 Configuration" on page 33 or "Migrating to a RAID Level 1 Configuration" on page 34). Create a RAID level 0 volume or RAID level 1 volume only when:

• You are adding two new drives to an existing single-drive computer (and the operating system

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is on the single drive), and you want to configure the two new drives into a RAID volume.

• You already have a two-hard drive computer configured into a volume, but you still have some space left on the volume that you want to designate as a second RAID volume.

Creating a RAID Level 0 Configuration

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 30).

Click

Start

Storage Manager

NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled

mode (see page 30).

On the Wizard, and then click

On the RAID level 0 volume, and then click the right arrow.

Click a second hard drive. To add a third hard drive in your RAID level 0 volume, click the right arrow and click on the third drive until three drives appear in the then click

In the

Specify Volume Size

Click

Finish

and point to

Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel Matrix

to launch the Intel® Storage Utility.

Actions

menu, select

Create RAID Volume

Select Volume Location

window, click the

to create the volume, or click

to launch the Create RAID Volume

screen, click the first hard drive you want to include in your

Volu m e S i ze

Back

to make changes.

Selected

desired, and then click

window, and

Creating a RAID Level 1 Configuration

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 30).

Click the

Start

button and point to

Matrix Storage Manager

32 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel

to launch the Intel® Storage Utility.

Page 33

NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled

mode (see page 30).

On the

Actions

menu, select

Create RAID Volume

to launch the Create RAID Volume

Wizard.

Click

at the first screen.

Confirm the volume name, select

On the

Select Volume Location

RAID 1

as the RAID level, and then click

to continue.

screen, click the first hard drive you want to use to create your RAID level 0 volume, and then click the right arrow. Click a second hard drive until two drives appear in the

In the

Specify Volume Size

Click

Finish

to create the volume, or click

Follow Microsoft Windows procedures for creating a partition on the new RAID volume.

Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTE: While this procedure deletes the RAID 1 volume, it also splits the RAID 1 volume into two non-

RAID hard drives with a partition, and leaves any existing data files intact. Deleting a RAID 0 volume, however, destroys all data on the volume.

Click the

Start

Matrix Storage Manager

Right-click the

On the

Highlight the RAID volume you want to delete in the

Delete RAID Volume Wizard

button to move the highlighted RAID volume into the

Click

Finish

to delete the volume.

Selected

window, and then click

window, select the

button and point to

to launch the Intel® Storage Utility.

Vo lu me

icon of the RAID volume you want to delete, and select

Volu m e S i ze

Back

to make changes.

desired and click

Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel

Delete Volume

screen, click

Available

Selected

box, click the right-arrow

box, and then click

Migrating to a RAID Level 0 Configuration

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 30).

Click the

Matrix Storage Manager

NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled

mode (see page 30).

On the

Start

button and point to

Actions

menu, select

All Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel

to launch the Intel® Storage Utility.

Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard Drive to

Migration Wizard.

Click

on the Migration Wizard screen.

Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 33

launch the

Page 34

From the drop-down box, select

NOTE: Select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to store on the RAID volume. If

you do not know the average file size, choose 128 KB as your strip size.

Select the appropriate strip size from the drop-down box, and then click

NOTE: Select the hard drive that you want to use as your source hard drive (it should be the hard drive

containing the data or operating system files that you want to keep on the RAID volume).

On the

Select Source Hard Drive

migrate, and click

On the member drive(s) to span the stripe array, and click

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On the

NOTE: In the following step, you will lose all data contained on the member drive.

Click

Finish

normally during the migration process.

Migrating to a RAID Level 1 Configuration

Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 30).

Click the

Matrix Storage Manager

NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled

mode (see page 30).

On the Migration Wizard.

Click

Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default.

From the drop-down box, select

RAID 0

screen, double-click the hard drive from which you want to

Select Member Hard Drive

Specify Volume Size

to start migrating, or click

Start

button and point to

screen, double-click the hard drive(s) to select the

screen, select the

Back

All Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel

to launch the Intel® Storage Utility.

Actions

menu, click

Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard Drive

on the first Migration Wizard screen.

RAID 1

as the RAID level

Volu m e S i ze

you want, and click

to make changes. You can use your computer

to launch the

as the RAID level

NOTE: Select the hard drive that you want to use as your source hard drive (it should be the hard drive

containing the data or operating system files that you want to keep on the RAID volume).

On the migrate, and click

On the

Select Source Hard Drive

Select Member Hard Drive

drive that you want to act as the mirror in the configuration, and click

On the

NOTE: In the following step, you will lose all data contained on the member drive.

Click

Specify Volume Size

Finish

to start migrating, or click

normally during migration process.

34 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

screen, double-click the hard drive from which you want to

screen, double-click the hard drive to select the member

screen, select the volume size you want, and click

Back

to make changes. You can use your computer

Page 35

Creating a Spare Hard Drive

A spare hard drive may be created with a RAID level 1 configuration. The spare hard drive will not be recognized by the operating system, but you will be able to see the spare drive from within Disk Manager or the Intel RAID Option ROM utility. When a member of the RAID level 1 configuration is broken, the computer automatically rebuilds the mirror configuration using the spare hard drive as the broken member’s replacement.

To Mark a Drive as a Spare Hard Drive:

Click the

Matrix Storage Manager

Right-click the hard drive you want to mark as a spare hard drive.

Click

To Remove Spare Marking From a Spare Hard Drive:

Right-click the spare hard drive icon.

Click

Rebuilding a Degraded RAID Level 1 Configuration

If your computer does not have a spare hard drive, and the computer has reported a degraded RAID level 1 volume, you can manually rebuild the computer’s redundancy mirror to a new hard drive by performing the following steps:

Click the

Matrix Storage Manager

Right-click the available hard drive to which you want to rebuild the RAID level 1 volume, and click

You can use your computer while the computer is rebuilding the RAID level 1 volume.

Start

button and point to

to launch the Intel® Storage Utility.

Mark as Spare

Reset Hard Drive to Non-RAID

Start

Rebuild to this Disk

button and point to

to launch the Intel® Storage Utility.

Programs→ Intel(R) Application Accelerator→ Intel

Understanding Intel® Viiv™ Technology (Optional)

Intel Viiv technology is a technology aimed at the digital home enthusiast that includes:

• A BIOS with Quick Resume

• Device drivers

This technology allows the user’s system to quickly return to an active state after non-use

Intel Viiv technology is an option for systems that are ordered with Microsoft Media Center Edition 2005 and dual core processors.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 35

Windows® XP

Page 36

Using Intel® Viiv™ Quick Resume Technology (Optional)

When running in the Intel Viiv Quick Resume Technology (QRT) mode, your power button is used as a quick on/off feature. Pressing the power button once causes the display to go blank and the audio to mute. In this mode, the computer is still operating as indicated by the power button indicator and diagnostic lights 1, 2, and 4 being lit. Also, you may notice that the hard drive indicator may blink when the hard drive is being accessed by an external device.

To resume normal computer operation, briefly press the power button, press any key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press a button on the optional Microsoft Center Edition 2005 remote control.

Windows® XP Media

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Enabling the QRT Feature in System Setup

The QRT drivers must be installed before this feature becomes active. These drivers are installed when this option is ordered. Also, Quick Resume is enabled in system setup when this feature is ordered.

Enter system setup (see page 114).

Press the arrow keys to highlight the access the menu.

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the to access the menu.

Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight the On option and press <Enter> to enable the Quick Resume feature.

Enabling the QRT feature in the Operating system

Click the

Under

Pick a category

Under

or pick a Control Panel icon

Click the

Ensure that the check boxes for Enable away mode and Options are checked.

Click the

From the

Nothing

From the

Nothing

Power Management

Quick Resume

Start

button and click

, click

Away

tab.

Advanced

When I press the power button on my computer

When I press the sleep button on my computer

tab.

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

, click

Power Options

menu option and press <Enter> to

option and press <Enter>

drop-down menu, select

36 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 37

Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tips

Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer:

• If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.

• If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.

• If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).

• If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.

• If you cannot boot into your operating system after you have changed your SATA operation settings, restore your previous SATA operation settings and retry booting into the operating system.

Battery Problems

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

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

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

Product Information Guide.

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

the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see page 106). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 126).

Solving Problems 37

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Drive Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Click the Start button and

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

TEST THE DRIVE —

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• Insert another floppy, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.

• Insert a bootable floppy and restart the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK — See page 122.

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See page 60.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See page 56.

CD and DVD drive problems

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

defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.

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

DVD drives.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —

• Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.

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

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

CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 49.

38 Solving Problems

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Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive

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

TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC — Search for the keyword standby in Windows Help.

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK —

Click the

Right-click

Click

Click the

Under

Click

Start

button and click

Local Disk C:

Properties

Error-checking Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors Start

Tools

tab.

, click

My Computer

Check Now

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

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

connected to a digital telephone network.

CHECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS — If you cannot open your e-mail attachments:

In Outlook Express, click

Click

Do not allow attachments

To ol s

, click

Options

to remove the checkmark.

, and then click

Security

Solving Problems 39

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CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION —

HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK —

ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — SE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —

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

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

• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.

• If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.

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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

Start Printers and Other Hardware Phone and Modem Options

Modems

Properties

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

button and click

tab.

, click the

Diagnostics

Control Panel

tab, and then click

Query Modem

to verify that the modem is

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service provider.

40 Solving Problems

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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

Select the program you want to remove.

Click the

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

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

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — Insert a bootable floppy or CD.

NON-SYSTEM DISK ERROR — Remove the floppy from the drive and restart your computer.

Start

button, click

Change or Remove Program

Control Panel

, and then click

icon.

Add or Remove Programs

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

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Contact Dell (see page 126).

Solving Problems 41

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Media Card Reader Problems

NO DRIVE LETTER IS ASSIGNED — When Microsoft Windows XP detects the Media Card Reader, the device is automatically assigned a drive letter as the next logical drive after all other physical drives in the system. If the next logical drive after the physical drives is mapped to a network drive, Windows XP does not automatically assign a drive letter to the Media Card Reader.

To manually assign a drive for the Media Card Reader:

Right-click My Computer and select

Select the

Right-click the corresponding drive letter in the right pane that needs to be changed.

Select

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Drive Letter and Paths.

From the drop-down list, select the new drive letter assignment for the Media Card Reader.

Click OK to confirm your selection.

NOTE: The Media Card Reader appears as a mapped drive only when it is connected. Each of the four

Media Card Reader slots are mapped to a drive even if no media is installed. If you attempt to access the Media Card Reader when no media is inserted, you are prompted to insert media.

FLEXBAY DEVICE IS DISABLED — There is a FlexBay disable option in the BIOS setup that appears only when the FlexBay device is installed. If the FlexBay device is physically installed, but it is not running, check to see if it is enabled in the BIOS setup.

Keyboard Problems

Disk Management

option.

Manage

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

Product Information Guide.

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE —

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

• Shut down the computer (see page 63), 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.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See page 60.

42 Solving Problems

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Lockups and Software Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

The computer does not start up

CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS — See page 53.

ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE

LECTRICAL OUTLET

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or

moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

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

Click

Applications

Click the program that is no longer responding.

Click

End Task

A program crashes repeatedly

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

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

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A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD — The Program Compatibility Wizard 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

A solid blue screen appears

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

Memory Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —

• Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem.

• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (see page 74).

• Reseat the memory modules (see page 74) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 56).

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules (see page 74) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see page 74).

• Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 109.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 56).

Mouse Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

CLEAN THE MOUSE — For instructions on cleaning the mouse, see "Mouse" on page 123.

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —

Remove mouse extension cables, if used, and connect the mouse directly to the computer.

Reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

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

Start the computer.

TEST THE MOUSE — Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, and try using the mouse.

CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS —

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Click the

Click

Try adjusting the settings.

REINSTALL THE MOUSE DRIVER — See page 58.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See page 60.

Start

Mouse

Network Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

button, click

Control Panel

Start

menu.

Shut down

, and then click

Tur n Of f

Printers and Other Hardware

, and then press <Enter>.

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE BACK OF THE COMPUTER — If the link integrity light is off, that indicates no network communication exists. Replace the network cable. For a description of network lights, see "Controls and Lights" on page 112.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN

CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up

your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See page 60.

46 Solving Problems

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Power Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS GREEN AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING — See "Dell Diagnostics"

on page 56.

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

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

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

• If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on. Also bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on properly.

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

• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see page 71).

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

• Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see page 74).

• Remove and then reinstall any cards (see page 76).

• Remove and then reinstall the graphics card, if applicable (see page 76).

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

• Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location (if applicable).

• Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 71).

ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE — Some possible causes of interference are:

• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables

• Too many devices on a power strip

• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

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Printer Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s manufacturer.

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

ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON

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CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• See the printer documentation for cable connection information.

• Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer (see page 13).

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

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click the

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

Click

port(s):

Start

View installed printers or fax printers

Properties

setting is

button, click

and click the

USB

Control Panel

Ports

, and then click

tab. For a USB printer, ensure that the

Printers and Other Hardware

Print to the following

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

Scanner Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer.

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

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

48 Solving Problems

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RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.

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

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS —

Click the

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

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

Start

button, click

Scanners and Cameras

Control Panel

, and then click

Printers and Other Hardware

Sound and Speaker Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

No sound from speakers

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

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

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

ENSURE THAT THE 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.

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Page 50

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

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

REINSTALL THE SOUND DRIVER — See page 59.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See page 60.

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No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see page 66).

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.

Video and Monitor Problems

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.

If the screen is blank

CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION —

• Ensure that the graphics cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

• If you are using a graphics extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is defective.

• Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective.

• Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing pins.)

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

50 Solving Problems

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

CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS — See page 53.

If the screen is difficult to read

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

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

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

ROTATE THE MONITOR TO ELIMINATE SUNLIGHT GLARE AND POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE

ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

Click the

Click

Try different settings for

Start

Display

button, click

and click the

Screen resolution

Control Panel

Settings

tab.

, and then click

and

Color quality.

Appearance and Themes

Solving Problems 51

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52 Solving Problems

Page 53

Troubleshooting Tools

Diagnostic Lights

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

Product Information Guide.

To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4" on the front panel (see page 65). 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.

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

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

All four diagnostic lights display solid green and then turn off after the system successfully boots to the operating system.

A possible processor failure has occurred.

Plug the computer into a working electrical outlet. Also see "Power Problems" on page 47.

If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 126).

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

• If you have two or more memory modules installed, remove the modules, reinstall one module (see page 74), and then restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, reinstall an additional module. Continue until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.

• If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see page 74).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 126).

Troubleshooting Tools 53

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Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

A possible graphics card failure has occurred.

A possible floppy drive or hard drive failure has occurred.

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

• If the computer has a graphics card, remove the card (see page 76), reinstall it, and then restart the computer.

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

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 126).

Reseat all power and data cables and restart the computer.

connections, and then restart the computer.

No memory modules are detected.

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

• If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see page 74).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 126).

• Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements exist (see page 72).

• Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your computer (see page 72).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 126

54 Troubleshooting Tools

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Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

A possible expansion card failure has occurred.

Determine if a conflict exists by removing a card (not a graphics card) and restarting the computer (see page 76).

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 page 59).

If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 126).

The system is operating in the quick resume mode. See "Using Intel

Viiv™ Quick Resume Technology (Optional)" on page 36 for additional information.

• Press the power button

• Move the mouse

• Press any key on the keyboard

• Press any key on the optional MCE remote control

Another failure has occurred.

• Ensure that the cables are properly connected to the system board from the hard drive, CD drive, and DVD drive (see page 71).

• If there is an error message on your screen identifying a problem with a device (such as the floppy drive or hard drive), check the device to ensure that it is functioning properly.

• The operating system is attempting to boot from a device (such as the floppy drive or hard drive); check system setup (see page 113) to make sure the boot sequence is correct for the devices installed on your computer.

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 126).

All four diagnostic lights display solid

None. green and then turn off after the system successfully boots to the operating system.

Troubleshooting Tools 55

Page 56

Dell Diagnostics

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

Product Information Guide.

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on page 37 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

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

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

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Microsoft

When the boot device list appears, highlight

When the Dell Diagnostics

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 to

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

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

Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows

Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer (see page 63) and try again.

Boot to Utility Partition

Main Menu

20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly.

1 hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically.

to run.

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

appears, select the test you want to run.

Main Menu

screen appears, click the button for the

and press <Enter>.

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 126).

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.

56 Troubleshooting Tools

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If you run a test from the

Custom Test

Symptom Tree

option, click the applicable tab

described in the following table for more information.

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the

problem description.

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for running the

test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.

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

Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test settings.

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.

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

• Upgrade your operating system

• Reinstall your operating system

• Connect or install a new device

Windows® operating

Troubleshooting Tools 57

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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.

Windows XP

Click the

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

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Device Manager

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.

Reinstalling Drivers

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com provides approved drivers for Dell™ computers.

If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

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

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 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

58 Troubleshooting Tools

Page 59

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

After copying the required driver files to your hard drive, click the

My Computer

Click

Properties

Click the

Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver.

Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.

Click the

Click

Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)

Click

Browse

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Finish

Hardware

Driver

tab and click

and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.

and restart your computer.

Device Manager

Update Driver

and click

Start

button and right-click

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.

To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:

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

I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my

list.

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

• Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your operating system and preserving data files.

• Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications installed after you received the computer. Use PC Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

• If you received an operating system. However, using the drive. Use the CD

Operating System

only

if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

CD with your computer, you can use it to restore your

Operating System

CD also deletes all data on the hard

Troubleshooting Tools 59

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Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore

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

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

recover them.

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not

apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.

Windows Help and Support Center

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Creating a Restore Point

Click the

Click the task for

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 58) 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.

Select a Restore Point

The 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.

Start

button and click

System Restore

Start

button, point to

Help and Support

All Programs→

Restore my computer to an earlier time

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

Accessories→

System Tools

is selected and click

, and then click

Click

Restoration Complete

The 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.

60 Troubleshooting Tools

screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and

Page 61

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

Enabling System Restore

Start

button, point to

Undo my last restoration

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

and click

, and then click

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

Click the

Click

Click the

Ensure that

Start

button and click

Control Panel

Performance and Maintenance

System

System Restore

tab.

Turn off System Restore

is unchecked.

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec

NOTICE: Using Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any

applications or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using PC Restore. Use PC Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

NOTE: Dell PC Restore by Symantec is not available in all countries or on all computers.

Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system. PC Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer—including data files—are permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data before using PC Restore.

To use PC Restore:

Turn on the computer.

During the boot process, a blue bar with

www.dell.com

appears at the top of the screen.

Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press <Ctrl><F11>.

If you do not press <Ctrl><F11> in time, let the computer finish starting, and then restart the computer again.

NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the following step.

On the next screen that appears, click

Restore

Troubleshooting Tools 61

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On the next screen, click

The restore process takes approximately 6–10 minutes to complete.

When prompted, click

NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot.

When prompted, click

The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the screens that appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that appeared the first time the computer was turned on.

Click

The

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Removing Dell PC Restore

System Restore

After the computer restarts, click OK.

NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from

your computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your computer’s operating system.

Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your computer, even to gain additional hard-drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard drive, you cannot ever recall it, and you will never be able to use PC Restore to return your computer’s operating system to its original state.

Log on to the computer as a local administrator.

In Windows Explorer, go to

Double-click the filename

Confirm

Finish

Yes

to reboot the computer.

screen appears and the computer restarts.

c:\dell\utilities\DSR

DSRIRRemv2.exe

NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator, a message appears stating that you that you

must log on as administrator. Click Quit, and then log on as a local administrator.

NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer’s hard drive, a message

appears stating that the partition was not found. Click Quit; there is no partition to delete.

Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.

Click

Yes

when a confirmation message appears.

The PC Restore partition is deleted and the newly available disk space is added to the free space allocation on the hard drive.

Right-click additional disk space is available as indicated by the increased value for

Click

Finish

Restart the computer.

62 Troubleshooting Tools

Local Disk (C)

to close the

PC Restore Removal

in Windows Explorer, click

window.

Properties

, and verify that the

Free Space

Page 63

Removing and Installing Parts

Before You Begin

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

• You have performed the steps in "Turn Off Your Computer" and "Before Working Inside Your Computer."

• You have read the safety information in your Dell™

• A component can be replaced by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.

Recommended Tools

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

• Small flat-blade screwdriver

• Phillips screwdriver

• Flash BIOS update program floppy disk or CD

Turn Off Your Computer

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn

off your computer.

Shut down the operating system:

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

Turn Off Computer

In the

Turn off computer

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

window, click

Tur n of f

Product Information Guide.

Start

button, and then

Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

Removing and Installing Parts 63

Page 64

Before Working Inside Your Computer

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

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

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a

card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.

NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to

servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable

itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside

the computer.

Turn off your computer.

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.

Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their 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.

64 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 65

Front View of the Computer

1 cover latch release Use this latch to remove the cover. See "Removing the

Computer Cover" on page 68.

2 CD or DVD activity light The drive light is on when the computer reads data from the

CD or DVD drive.

3 CD or DVD eject button Press to eject a disc from the CD or DVD drive.

4 FlexBay drives (2) Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional Media Card

Reader. For information on using the Media Card Reader, see "Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)" on page 20.

Removing and Installing Parts 65

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5 IEEE 1394 connector

(optional)

6 vents For adequate cooling, do not block any of the vents.

7 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect

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8 power button Press to turn on the computer.

9 hard-drive activity light The hard drive activity light is on when the computer reads

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

11 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most

12 microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal computer

13 Service Tag Used to identify your computer when you access the Dell

Use the optional IEEE 1394 connector for high-speed data devices such as digital video cameras and external storage devices.

NOTICE: Ensure that there is a minimum of two inches of

space between all vents and any object near these vents.

NOTICE: Keep the vent area clean and dust-free to ensure

that the system is adequately ventilated. Use only a dry cloth to clean the vent area to avoid water damage to the system.

occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see "System Setup Options" on page 116 for more information on booting to a USB device). It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.

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

to turn off the computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown.

data from or writes data to the hard drive. The light might also be on when a device such as a CD player is operating.

based on the diagnostic code. For more information, see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 53.

kinds of speakers.

microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

Support website or call technical support.

66 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 67

Back View of the Computer

1 power connector Insert the power cable.

2 sound card connectors (5)

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

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

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

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

• Center/subwoofer (Center/LFE) connector — Use the yellow subwoofer connector to attach multiple speakers.

Removing and Installing Parts 67

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3 network connector To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a

network cable to either a network jack or your network or broadband device. Connect the other end of the network cable to the network connector on your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached.

NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network connector.

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

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

4 USB 2.0 connectors (5) Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as

printers and keyboards.

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5 card slots (6) Access connectors for any installed PCI or PCI Express cards.

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

Removing the Computer Cover

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

Product Information Guide.

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

before removing the cover.

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.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

If you have installed a security cable, remove it from the security cable slot.

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

top space.

NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the

computer or the surface on which it is resting.

Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up.

Pull back the cover latch release on the top panel.

68 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 69

cover latch release

computer cover

back of computer

hinge tabs (3)

Locate the three hinge tabs on the bottom edge of the computer.

Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up.

Lift the cover away and set it aside in a secure location.

Removing and Installing Parts 69

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Inside View of Your Computer

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

Product Information Guide.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

CD or DVD drive

*floppy drive

power supply system board

*may not be present on all computers

70 Removing and Installing Parts

hard drive

Page 71

System Board Components

memory module connectors (1, 2, 3, 4)

processor power connector

processor and heat sink connector

fan connector (CPU FAN)

battery socket (BATTERY)

memory fan connector

front panel I/O connector

main power connector

IDE drive connector

SATA connectors (4) (SATA0, SATA1, SATA2, SATA3)

clear CMOS jumper (RTCRST)

FlexBay USB connector

PCI Express x1 card connector

fan cardcage connector

Serial 2 connector

password jumper (PSWD)

floppy drive connector (FLOPPY)

PCI Express x16 card connector

PCI Express x4 card connector

PCI card connectors

Removing and Installing Parts 71

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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 "Specifications."

Memory Overview

• Memory modules should be installed in the memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. See the label in the upper-right corner of the module to determine the module’s capacity.

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

The recommended memory configurations are:

– A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2

pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology

. If

– A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 and

another matched pair installed in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4

• If you install mixed pairs of DDR2 400-MHz (PC2-3200), DDR2 533-MHz (PC2-4300) and DDR2 667-MHz (PC2-5300) memory, the modules function at the slowest speed installed.

• Be sure to install a single memory module in the DIMM_1 connector, the connector closest to the processor, before you install modules in the other connectors.

• While installing memory modules, ensure that you do not mix ECC and non-ECC memory.

72 Removing and Installing Parts

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Channel A: matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 (white securing clips)

Channel B: matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4 (black securing clips)

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

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

keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 or connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4.

Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations

Your computer supports a maximum of 4 GB of memory when you use four 1-GB DIMMs. Current operating systems, such as Microsoft

Windows® XP, can only use a maximum of 4 GB of address space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is less than 4 GB. Certain components within the computer require address space in the 4-GB range. Any address space reserved for these components cannot be used by computer memory.

Removing and Installing Parts 73

Page 74

Installing Memory

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity

from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

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

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

memory connector closest to processor

securing clips (2)

74 Removing and Installing Parts

connector

Page 75

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

notch

memory module

cutouts (2)

crossbar

notches

memory module

cutouts (2)

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector

while you apply equal force to each end of the module.

Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.

memory module

cutouts (2)

notches

crossbars

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

crossbars

Close the computer cover.

Removing and Installing Parts 75

Page 76

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.

Right-click the

Click the

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

Removing Memory

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

Product Information Guide.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity

from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

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.

Cards

My Computer

General

tab.

icon and click

Properties

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity

from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.

Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards:

• Three PCI card slots

• One PCI Express x1 card slot

• One PCI Express x16 card slot

• One PCI Express x4 card slot

76 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 77

PCI Cards

If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a card, see ""Removing a PCI Card" on page 80".

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

If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, see "Installing a PCI Express Card" on page 82.

Installing a PCI Card

NOTE: Dell offers an optional customer kit for Audigy II and IEEE 1394 PCI add-in-cards that includes a

front-mounted IEEE 1394 connector.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

release tabs (2)

card retention door

alignment bar

alignment guide

filler bracket

Removing and Installing Parts 77

Page 78

Push the two release tabs on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

If your computer includes a card retention mechanism, to secure the x16 card in place from the top:

Pivot the mechanism upward and gently press the release tab downward to release the mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.

Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.

If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 7.

If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.

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

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.

ease ta

card retention mechanism

card retention door

78 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 79

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.

not fully seated card

fully seated card

alignment guide

alignment bar

Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:

bracket within slot

bracket caught outside of 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.

card retention door

release tabs (2)

Removing and Installing Parts 79

Page 80

Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the card(s).

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 cable connections.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug the

cable into the computer.

If you replaced a card that was already installed in the computer and you removed the retention mechanism, you may reinstall the retention mechanism.

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Before replacing the card retention mechanism, ensure that:

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

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

Snap the card retention mechanism into place, securing the x16 PCI card.

Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

If you installed a sound card:

Enter system setup, select to

Off

Connect external audio devices to the sound card connectors. Do not connect external audio devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel.

If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter:

Enter system setup, select to

Off

Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter connectors. Do not connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel.

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

Integrated Audio Controller

, and then change the setting

Integrated NIC Controller,

and then change the setting

Removing a PCI Card

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

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 126).

80 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 81

NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification

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

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug the

cable into the computer.

Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Remove the card driver from the operating system.

If you removed a sound card:

Enter system setup, select to

Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the

Integrated Audio Controller

, and then change the setting

computer.

If you removed an add-in network connector:

Enter system setup, select to

Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the

Integrated NIC Controller

, and then change the setting

computer.

PCI Express Cards

Your computer supports:

• One PCI Express x1 card

• One PCI Express x16 card

• One PCI Express x4 card

If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing a PCI Express Card" on page 86.

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

If you are installing or replacing a PCI card, see "Installing a PCI Card" on page 77.

Removing and Installing Parts 81

Page 82

Installing a PCI Express Card

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

release tabs (2)

card retention

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door

If present on your computer, rotate the lever on the chassis wall upward.

Push the two release tabs on the card retention door toward each other and pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.

*lever on chassis wall

alignment bar

alignment guide

filler bracket

*may not be present on all computers

82 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 83

ease ta

*"piano" bracket

If your computer includes a card retention mechanism:

Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the

card retention mechanism

*may not be present on all computers

mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.

Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.

NOTE: For full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it

upward by pressing the tabs on the side of the bracket toward each other.

If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 7.

If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the existing card.

If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. If your card includes a retention mechanism, remove the top of the retention mechanism by pressing the tab and pulling up on the top.

card retention door

NOTE: For full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it

upward by pressing the tabs on the side of the bracket toward each other.

Removing and Installing Parts 83

Page 84

Pull the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out of its connector.

PCI Express x16 card

PCI Express x16 card slot

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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.

If you are installing the card into the x16 card connector, position the card so that the securing slot is aligned with the securing tab.

NOTICE: Ensure that you release the securing tab to seat the card. If the card is not installed correctly,

you may damage the system board.

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

PCI Express x1 card

securing tab

PCI Express x1 card slot

not fully seated card

fully seated card

alignment guide

alignment bar

84 Removing and Installing Parts

bracket within slot

bracket caught outside of slot

Page 85

Ensure that:

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

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

If you removed a card retention mechanism, snap it into place, securing the x16 PCI-E card.

ease ta

*"piano" bracket

*may not be present on all computers

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

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

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug the

cable into the computer.

NOTE: or full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it

down into place.

Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and

card retention mechanism

card retention door

then turn them on.

If you installed a sound card:

Enter system setup, select

Off

Connect external audio devices to the sound card’s connectors. Do not connect external

Integrated Audio Controller

, and then change the setting

audio devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel.

Removing and Installing Parts 85

Page 86

If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter:

Enter system setup select to

Off

Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter’s connectors. Do not connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel.

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

Removing a PCI Express Card

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

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Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

release tabs (2)

Integrated NIC Controller,

and then change the setting

card retention door

alignment bar

alignment guide

filler bracket

*may not be present on all computers

If present on your computer, rotate the lever on the chassis wall upward.

*lever on chassis wall

86 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 87

Push the two release tabs on the card retention door toward each other and pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.

release tab

*"piano" bracket

*may not be present on all computers

If your computer includes a card retention mechanism, to remove the x16 card:

Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the

card retention mechanism

mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.

Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.

card retention door

NOTE: For full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it

upward by pressing the tabs on the side of the bracket toward each other.

PCI Express x16 card

securing tab

PCI Express x16 card slot

Removing and Installing Parts 87

PCI Express x1 card

PCI Express x1 card slot

Page 88

NOTICE: Ensure that you release the securing tab to unseat the card. If the card is not removed

correctly, the system board may be damaged.

Release the securing tab on the card slot to unseat the card.

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 126).

NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification

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

Reseat the card retention mechanism in the tabs and pivot downward to snap it into place.

Close the card retention door to snap it into place, securing the card(s).

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NOTE: For full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it

down into place.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug the

cable into the computer.

Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Remove the card driver from the operating system.

If you removed a sound card:

Enter system setup, select to

Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer.

If you removed an add-in network connector:

Enter system setup, select to

Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the computer.

Integrated Audio Controller

, and then change the setting

Integrated NIC Controller

, and then change the setting

NOTE: Install

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

88 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 89

Drive Panels

lidi

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

Product Information Guide.

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

before removing the cover.

Removing the Drive Panel

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

ng plate lever

sliding plate

drive panel

Grasping the lever on the sliding plate, pull the sliding plate to the right and hold in place.

NOTE: The sliding plate secures and releases the drive panel and helps to secure the drives.

Removing and Installing Parts 89

Page 90

Push from the inside and pivot the drive panel to the left to release the panel from its side hinges.

Set the drive panel aside in a secure location.

Removing the Drive-Panel Insert

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Turn the drive panel sideways and find the tip of the drive-panel insert tab that latches over a tab on the right side of the drive panel.

Pull the inner tip of the drive-panel insert tab away from the drive panel.

Pivot the drive-panel insert out and away from the drive panel.

Set the drive-panel insert aside in a secure location.

drive-panel insert tab

drive panel

drive-panel insert

Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert

center drivepanel tab

90 Removing and Installing Parts

drive panel

drive-panel insert tab

drive-panel insert

Page 91

lidi

Slide the tab on the left side of the drive-panel insert under the center drive panel tab.

Rotate the drive-panel insert into place and snap the drive-panel insert tab over the corresponding tab on the drive panel.

Ensure that the drive-panel insert is correctly seated in the drive panel.

Replacing the Drive Panel

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

ng plate lever

sliding plate

drive panel

Align the drive panel tabs with the side-door hinges.

Rotate the drive panel toward the computer until the sliding plate lever clicks into place and the drive panel snaps into place on the front panel.

Removing and Installing Parts 91

Page 92

Drives

Your computer supports:

• Two hard drives (Serial ATA)

• Two FlexBay drives (can contain an optional floppy drive or optional Media Card Reader)

• Two CD or DVD drives

General Installation Guidelines

Connect hard drives to the connector labeled "SATA" and connect CD/DVD drives to the connector labeled “IDE".

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Serial ATA hard drives should be connected to the connector labeled SATA on the system board. IDE CD/DVD drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE.

When connecting an IDE cable, ensure you align the colored stripe with the pin 1 connector. When disconnecting an IDE cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector detaches.

When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA cable, hold the cable by the connector at each end.

Hard Drive

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

Product Information Guide.

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

before opening the cover.

92 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 93

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a

surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.

If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data you want to keep, back up your files before you begin this procedure.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

Removing a Hard Drive

Disconnect the power and hard drive cables from the drive.

power cable

hard drive cable

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

tabs (2)

hard drive

Removing and Installing Parts 93

Page 94

Installing a Hard Drive

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

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

If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard drive bracket attached, remove the bracket from the old hard drive by unsnapping it from the drive.

Snap the hard drive bracket onto the replacement hard drive.

Install the hard drive into the computer by sliding the drive into place until you feel it click into place.

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

hard drive

hard drive bracket

hard drive cable

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

Close the computer cover.

94 Removing and Installing Parts

power cable

Page 95

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network wall jack and then plug the

cable in to the computer.

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

See the documentation that came with the hard drive for instructions about installing any software required for the operation of the hard drive.

Adding a Second Hard Drive

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

Product Information Guide.

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

before opening the cover.

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a

surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.

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

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

Press in on the tabs on each side of the hard drive bracket in the empty drive bay and slide the bracket up and out.

Snap the hard drive bracket onto the new hard drive.

NOTICE: Do not install any drive into the lower hard-drive bay until you have removed the hard drive

bracket from the inside of the hard drive bay.

Slide the new hard drive into empty bay until you feel a click.

NOTE: If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard drive bracket attached, remove the bracket

from the old hard drive by unsnapping it from the drive. Snap the bracket onto the new hard drive.

hard drive

hard drive bracket

Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.

Connect the power and hard drive cables to the drive.

Removing and Installing Parts 95

Page 96

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

Replace the computer cover (page 107).

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 in the

Product Information Guide.

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

before opening the cover.

NOTE: If you are adding a floppy drive, see ""Installing a Floppy Drive" on page 98."

Removing a Floppy Drive

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

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

Disconnect the other end of the floppy drive cable from the system board.

96 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 97

sliding plate

sliding plate lever

floppy drive

Pull the sliding plate to the right and hold in place.

Slide the floppy drive out of the floppy drive bay.

power cable

floppy drive cable

Removing and Installing Parts 97

Page 98

Installing a Floppy Drive

If you are installing a new floppy drive, remove the shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel insert and attach the screws to the new drive.

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Slide the floppy drive into the floppy drive bay until the sliding plate clicks into place and the drive snaps into position.

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

For more information on system board, see "System Board Components" on page 71.

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

Close the computer cover.

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

to the computer.

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

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

floppy drive

shoulder screws (4)

Enter system setup (see page 114) and select the appropriate

Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 56).

98 Removing and Installing Parts

Diskette Drive

option.

Page 99

Media Card Reader

For information on using the Media Card Reader, see "Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)" on page 20.

Removing a Media Card Reader

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

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity

from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

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

Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

Remove the drive panel (see page 89).

USB cable

*Media Card Reader

Not present on all computers.

Removing and Installing Parts 99

Page 100

Disconnect the USB cable on the back of the Media Card Reader to the front panel USB connector on the system board (see page 71) and route the cable through the clip on the shroud.

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*Media Card Reader

sliding plate lever

sliding plate

Not present on all computers.

While pushing on the back of the drive, remove the Media Card Reader by sliding and holding the sliding plate.

Replace the drive panel (see page 91).

Replace the computer cover (see page 107).

100 Removing and Installing Parts

Dell XPS 400 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up a Printer

Printer Cable

Connecting a USB Printer

Connecting to the Internet

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Playing CDs and DVDs

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Connecting Two Monitors

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

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

Connecting a TV

Changing the Display Settings

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Network Setup Wizard

Power Management

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Options Properties

IEEE 1394

Hyper-Threading

About Your RAID Configuration

RAID Level 0 Configuration

RAID Level 1 Configuration

Configuring Your Computer for RAID

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel® RAID Option ROM Utility

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel® Application Accelerator

Understanding Intel® Viiv™ Technology (Optional)

Using Intel® Viiv™ Quick Resume Technology (Optional)

Enabling the QRT Feature in System Setup

Enabling the QRT feature in the Operating system

Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tips

Battery Problems

Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems

Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

Media Card Reader Problems

Keyboard Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up

The computer stops responding

A program stops responding

A program crashes repeatedly

A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system

A solid blue screen appears

Other software problems

Memory 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

Troubleshooting Tools

Diagnostic Lights

Dell Diagnostics

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

Drivers

What Is a Driver?