Dell XPS 410 User Manual

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Dell™ XPS™ 410

Owner’s Manual

Service Tag

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)

cover release latch

power connector

audio connectors

USB 2.0 connectors (4)	(rear quad)
USB 2.0 connectors (2)	(rear dual)

network adapter

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

PCI (3)

Model DCTA

w w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m

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, PowerConnect, XPS, DellNet, Dell TravelLite, Dell OpenManage, and StrikeZone are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Core is trademark of Intel Corporation; Intel, Pentium, Intel SpeedStep, Celeron, and Viiv are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; the Bluetooth word mark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Dell Inc. is under license.

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

October 2007

P/N YH251

Rev. A02

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

1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	13
Front View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	13
Back View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15
Back Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	16
Connecting Monitors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	17
Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . .	18
Connecting One Monitor With a VGA connector and
One Monitor With a DVI Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	18
Connecting a Television (TV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	19
Changing the Display Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	19
Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20
Printer Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20
Connecting a USB Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20
Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	21
Setting Up Your Internet Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	21
Setting Up a Home and Office Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	22
Connecting to a Network Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	22
Network Setup Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	23
Transferring Information to a New Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	23
Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the
Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	24
Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the
Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	25
Playing CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	26
Playing a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	26
Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	28
Adjusting the Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	28

Contents 3

Copying CDs and DVDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	28
How to Copy a CD or DVD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	29
Using Blank CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	29
Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	30
Using a Media Card Reader (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	31
IEEE 1394 (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
Hibernate Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	33
Power Options Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	33
Cleaning Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	34
Cleaning the Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	34
Cleaning the Mouse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
Cleaning the Floppy Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
Cleaning CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
2 Optimizing Performance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	37
Hyper-Threading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	37
About Your RAID Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	37
RAID Level 0 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	38
RAID Level 1 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	38
Configuring Your Computer for RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	39
Using the Intel® RAID Option ROM Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	40
Using the Intel® Application Accelerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	42
Dell DataSafe (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	46
Intel® Viiv™ Technology (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	46
Using Intel® Viiv™ Quick Resume Technology (QRT) . . . . . . . . . . .	46
Enabling the QRT Feature in System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	47
Enabling the QRT Feature in the Operating system. . . . . . . . . . . . .	47

4 Contents

3 Troubleshooting Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	49
Diagnostic Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	49
Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	52
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	53
Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	54
What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	54
Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	54
Reinstalling Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	55
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . .	56
Restoring Your Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	56
Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	56
Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	58

4 Solving Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	61
Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	61
Battery Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	61
Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	62
CD and DVD drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	62
Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	63
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	63
Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	65
Media Card Reader Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	66
Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	66
Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67
The computer does not start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67
The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67
A program stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67
A program crashes repeatedly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	67
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system . . . . .	68
A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	68
Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	68
Memory Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	69

Contents 5

Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	69
Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	70
Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	71
Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	72
Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	72
Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	73
No sound from speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	73
No sound from headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	74
Video and Monitor Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	74
The screen is blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	74
The screen is difficult to read. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	75

5 Removing and Installing Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	77
Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	77
Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	77
Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	77
Before Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	78
Removing the Computer Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	78
Inside View of Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	80
System Board Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	81
Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	82
Memory Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	82
Installing Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	83
Removing Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	85
Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	86
PCI Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	86
PCI Express Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	91
Drive Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	100
Removing the Drive Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	100
Removing the Drive-Panel Insert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	101
Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	102
Replacing the Drive Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	103

6 Contents

Drives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	103
General Installation Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	104
Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	104
Removing a Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	105
Installing a Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	106
Adding a Second Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	107
Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	109
Removing a Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	109
Installing a Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	111
Media Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	112
Removing a Media Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	112
Installing a Media Card Reader. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	115
CD/DVD Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	116
Removing a CD/DVD Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	117
Installing a CD/DVD Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	118
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	120
Replacing the Battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	120
Replacing the Computer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	121
A Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	123
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	123
System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	127
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	127
Entering System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	127
System Setup Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	129
Boot Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	132
Clearing Forgotten Passwords. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	134
Clearing CMOS Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	135
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	135
Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals . . . . . . . . .	136
Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals. . . . . . . . . . .	136

Contents 7

FCC Notice (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	136
FCC Class B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	136
Contacting Dell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	137
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	159
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	169

8 Contents

Finding Information

NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or media may not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: This Owner’s Manual is available as a PDF at support.dell.com.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For?	Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer	Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD)
• Drivers for my computer	NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may be optional and may
• My device documentation	not ship with your computer.
• Desktop System Software (DSS)	Documentation and drivers are already installed on your
	computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see
	"Drivers" on page 54), run the Dell diagnostics (see "Dell
	Diagnostics" on page 52), or access your documentation.
	Readme files may be
	included on your CD to
	provide last-minute
	updates about technical
	changes to your computer
	or advanced technical
	reference material for
	technicians or experienced
	users.
	NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at
	support.dell.com.

• Warranty information	Dell™ Product Information Guide
• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement

Finding Information		9

What Are You Looking For?	Find It Here

• How to set up my computer	Setup Diagram

•Service Tag and Express Service Code

•Microsoft® Windows® Product Key Label

Service Tag and Microsoft Windows Product Key

These labels are located on your computer.

•Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use support.dell.com or contact support.

•Enter the Express

Service Code to direct your call when contacting support.

10 Finding Information

What Are You Looking For?	Find It Here

• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles	Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
from technicians, online courses, and frequently asked	NOTE: Select your region or business segment to view the
questions	appropriate support site.
• Community — Online discussion with other Dell
customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such
as the memory, hard drive, and operating system
• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and
order status, and warranty and repair information
• Service and support — Service call status, support
history, service contract, and online discussions with
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	To download Desktop System Software:
reinstall the DSS utility. DSS automatically detects your	To download Desktop System Software:
computer and operating system and installs the updates	1 Go to support.dell.com, select your region or business
appropriate for your configuration, providing critical	segment, then enter your Service Tag or product model.
updates for your operating system and support for Dell™	2 Select Drivers & Downloads, then click Go.
3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel® processors, optical	3 Select your operating system and language, and then
drives, and USB devices. DSS is necessary for correct	search for the keyword Desktop System Software.
operation of your Dell computer.	NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary
	NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary
	depending on your selections.

• How to use Windows XP	Windows Help and Support Center
• How to work with programs and files	1 Click Start→ Help and Support.
• How to personalize my desktop	2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and
	click the arrow icon.
	3 Click the topic that describes your problem.
	4 Follow the instructions on the screen.

Finding Information		11

What Are You Looking For?	Find It Here

• How to reinstall my operating system	Operating System CD
	NOTE: The Operating System CD may be optional and may
	not ship with your computer.
	The operating system is already installed on your computer.
	To reinstall your operating system see "Restoring Your
	Operating System" on page 56
	After you reinstall your
	operating system, use the
	Drivers and Utilities CD
	(ResourceCD) to reinstall
	drivers for the devices that
	came with your computer.
	Your operating system
	product key label is located
	on your computer.
	NOTE: The color of your CD varies according to the
	operating system you ordered.

• How to use Linux	Dell Supported Linux Sites
• E-mail discussions with users of Dell Precision™	• linux.dell.com
products and the Linux operating system	• lists.us.dell.com/mailman/listinfo/linux-precision

•Additional information regarding Linux and my Dell Precision computer

12 Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front View of the Computer

	3
10
9
8
7	4

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

1	cover release latch	Use this latch to remove the cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on
		page 78).

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

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

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 31.

5	vents	For adequate cooling, do not block any of the vents.
		NOTICE: Ensure that there is a minimum of two inches of space between all
		vents and any object near the 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.

6	USB 2.0 connectors (2)	Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
		flash memory keys, cameras, or bootable USB devices. For more information on
		booting to a USB device, see "System Setup Options" on page 129.
		NOTE: It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors for devices that
		typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.

7	power button	Press the power button to turn on the computer.
		NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the
		computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown.

8	hard-drive activity light	The hard-drive light is on when the computer reads data from or writes data to
		the hard drive. The light may also be on when a device such as a CD player is
		operating.

9	diagnostic lights (4)	Use the sequence of the diagnostic lights to help you troubleshoot a problem
		with your computer (see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 49).

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

11	microphone connector	Use the microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone for
		voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

12	Service Tag	Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support
		website or contact support.

14 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Back View of the Computer

1	power connector	Insert the power cable.

2	back I/O connectors	Plug USB, network, S/PDIF, and audio devices into the appropriate connectors
		(see "Back Panel Connectors" on page 16).

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

4	power selection switch	Manually select AC input power: 115 volts or 230 volts

Setting Up and Using Your Computer		15

Back Panel Connectors

link integrity light

• Green — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps network and the

computer.

• Orange — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps network and the

computer.

• Yellow — A good connection exists between a 1000-Mbps (1-Gbps) network and

the computer.

• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.

network adapter

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

connector

Use the network adapter 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, and then connect the other end of the

network cable to the network adapter connector on your computer. A click

indicates that the network cable has been securely attached.

On computers with an additional network connector card, use the connectors on

the card and on the back of the computer when setting up multiple network

connections (such as a separate intraand extranet).

NOTE: 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.

network activity light

Flashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting or receiving network

data. A high volume of network traffic may make this light appear to be in a

steady "on" state.

USB 2.0 connectors (2)

Use the back, rear-dual USB connectors for devices that typically remain

(rear dual)

connected, such as printers and keyboards.

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

16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

5	USB 2.0 connectors (4)	Use the back, rear-quad USB connectors for devices that typically remain
	(rear quad)	connected, such as printers and keyboards.
		NOTE: It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that
		you connect occasionally, such as joysticks, cameras, or bootable USB devices.

6	surround sound	Use the (black) surround sound connector to attach multichannel-capable
	connector	speakers.
		On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

7	line-in connector	Use the (blue) line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a
		cassette player, CD player, or VCR.
		On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

8	line-out/headphone	Use the (green) line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with
	connector	integrated amplifiers.
		On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

9	microphone connector	Use the (pink) microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone
		for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
		On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

10	center/subwoofer LFE	Use the (orange) center/subwoofer connector to attach a center speaker or a
	connector	single subwoofer.
		On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
		NOTE: The LFE (Low Frequency Effects) Audio channel, found in digital surround
		sound audio schemes, carries only low frequency information of 80 Hz and below.
		The LFE channel drives a subwoofer to provide extremely low bass extension.
		Systems not using subwoofers can shunt the LFE information to the main speakers in
		the surround sound setup.

11	side surround sound	Use the (gray) side surround sound connector to attach multichannel-capable
	connector	speakers. The side-surround output provides enhanced surround audio for
		computers with 7.1 speakers.
		On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

12	S/PDIF connector	Use the S/PDIF connector to transmit digital audio without going through an
		analog audio conversion process.

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

Connecting Monitors

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

NOTE: Your computer supports one VGA and one DVI connector. If you are connecting two monitors that have VGA connectors, you must use the optional DVI-to-VGA adapter. If you are connecting two flat-panel monitors, at least one of them must have a VGA connector. If you are connecting a television, you can connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the television.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer		17

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 two monitors with VGA connectors, one monitor with a VGA connector and one monitor with a DVI connector, or a television.

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 77.

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

3 Connect the other monitor to the optional DVI-to-VGA adapter, then connect the adapter to the (white) DVI connector on the back of the computer.

		3
		4
	Two VGA Connectors	4		One VGA Connector and
	Two VGA Connectors			One VGA Connector and
				one DVI Connector
1	optional DVI-to-VGA adapter 2	DVI connector (white)	3		TV-OUT connector
4	VGA connector (blue)

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

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 77.

2Connect the VGA connector of the first monitor to the (blue) VGA connector on the back of the computer.

3Connect the DVI connector of the second monitor to the (white) DVI connector on the back of the computer.

18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Connecting a Television (TV)

NOTE: See the documentation that came with your TV to ensure that you properly configure and connect the TV.

NOTE: To connect a TV to your computer, an S-video cable is required. If you do not have an S-video cable, you may purchase one at most consumer electronics stores. An S-video cable is not included with your computer.

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 77.

2Connect one end of the S-video cable to the TV-OUT connector on the back of the computer.

3Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV.

4Connect a VGA or DVI monitor (see "Connecting Monitors" on page 17).

Changing the Display Settings

1After you connect the monitor(s) or television, turn on the computer. The Microsoft® Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.

2Enable 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 Start button, click Help and Support, click User and system guides, click Device guides, and then click the guide for your graphics card).

For dual-monitor capable cards with one DVI connector and one VGA connector

One DVI connector and one VGA connector:

Two VGA connectors with one VGA adapter:

DVI
VGA	VGA
VGA
	VGA

Use the appropriate connector(s) when you want to connect your computer to one or two monitors.

Use the DVI-to-VGA adapter when you want to connect your computer to two VGA monitors.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer		19

For dual-monitor capable cards with two DVI connectors

Two DVI connectors:	Two DVI connectors with a
	DVI-to-VGA adapter:

Two DVI connectors with two DVI-to-VGA adapters:

DVI	DVI
	DVI
	DVI	VGA
		VGA
	VGA	VGA

Use the DVI connectors to connect your computer to one or two DVI monitors.

Use the DVI-to-VGA adapter to connect a VGA monitor to one of the DVI connectors on your computer

Use two DVI-to-VGA adapters to connect two VGA monitors to the DVI connectors on 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.

Connecting a USB Printer

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

1Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.

2Install the printer driver, if necessary (see the documentation that came with your printer).

3Attach the USB printer cable to the appropriate USB connector on the computer and the printer. The connectors fit only one way.

20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

1 USB connector on computer 2 USB printer cable

3 USB connector on printer

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.

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:

1Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

2Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.

3Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer		21

If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop, or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP:

1Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

2Click the Start button, then click Internet Explorer. The New Connection Wizard appears.

3Click Connect to the Internet.

4In the next window, click the appropriate option:

•If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose from a list of Internet service providers (ISPs).

•If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click Set up my connection manually.

•If you have a CD, click Use the CD I got from an ISP.

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

5Click Next.

If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

6Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then click Next.

7Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 63. 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 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.

1Connect 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.

2Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device.

22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

		1	4
			4
1	network adapter connector on 2	network adapter connector	3	network device
	computer
4	network cable

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.

1Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications, and then click Network Setup Wizard.

2On the welcome screen, click Next.

3Click Checklist for creating a network.

NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack.

4Complete the checklist and required preparations.

5Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.

Transferring Information to a New Computer

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

•E-mail messages

•Toolbar settings

•Window sizes

•Internet bookmarks

Setting Up and Using Your Computer		23

You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network, with an add in PS2/serial adapter (optional), or you can store it on a removable media, such as a writable CD or USB drive, for transfer to the new computer.

NOTE: You can transfer information from the old computer to the new computer by directly connecting a serial cable to the input/output (I/O) ports of the two computers. However, this requires that you install a PS2/serial adapter (optional), which provides a serial connector (COM). Also, the old computer needs to have a serial connector. To transfer data over a serial connection, you must access the Network Connections utility from the Control Panel and perform additional configuration steps, such as setting up an advanced connection and designating the host computer and the guest computer.

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

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

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

NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System CD. This CD is optional and may not be included with all computers.

To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:

1Start the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

2When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.

3On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer, then click Next.

4On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD, then click Next.

5When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do not click Next at this time.

To copy data from the old computer:

1On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System CD.

2On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks.

3Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings.

4On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.

5On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer, then click Next.

6On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

7On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer, then click Next. After the information has been copied, the Completing the Collection Phase screen appears.

8Click Finish.

To transfer data to the new computer:

1On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.

2On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files, then click Next.

The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer. When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished screen appears.

3Click Finished, and then restart the new computer.

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

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

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

1Click the Start button.

2Click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

3When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.

4On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer, then click Next.

5On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following drive:, then click Next.

6Insert the removable media, such as a writable CD, then click OK.

7When the disk creation completes and the Now go to your old computer message appears, do not click

Next.

8Go to the old computer.

To copy data from the old computer:

1On the old computer, insert the wizard disk.

2Click the Start button, then click Run.

3In the Open field on the Run window, browse to the path for fastwiz (on the appropriate removable media), then click OK.

4On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next.

5On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer, then click Next.

6On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer		25

7On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer, then click Next. After the information has been copied, the Completing the Collection Phase screen appears.

8Click Finish.

To transfer data to the new computer:

1On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.

2On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files, then click Next. Follow the instructions on the screen.

The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer. When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished screen appears.

3Click Finished, and then restart the new computer.

NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search support.dell.com for document #PA1089586 (How Do I Transfer Files From My Old Computer to My New Dell Computer Using the Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System?).

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

Playing CDs and DVDs

Playing a CD or DVD

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

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

1Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

2Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.

26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

3 Press the eject button or gently push on the tray to close it.

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 observe all copyright laws when you create CDs or DVDs.

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

Play

Move backward within the current track

Pause

Move forward within the current track

Stop

Go to the previous track

Eject

Go to the next track

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:

Stop

Restart the current chapter

Play

Fast forward

Setting Up and Using Your Computer		27

Pause

Fast reverse

Advance a single frame while in pause mode

Go to the next title or chapter

Continuously play the current title or chapter

Go to the previous title or chapter

Eject

For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Adjusting the Volume

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

1Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment, and then click Volume Control.

2In the Master Volume control window, click and drag the bar in the Master Volume column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.

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

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.

1Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel.

2Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes.

3Under Pick a task..., click Change the screen resolution.

4In the Display Properties window, click and drag the bar in Screen resolution to change the setting to

800 by 600 pixels.

5Under Color quality, click the drop-down menu, and then click Medium (16 bit).

6Click 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 DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD (combo) drive.

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

28 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at www.sonic.com.

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

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus.

1Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Roxio→ Creator Projects, and then click RecordNow Copy.

2Under the Copy tab, click Disc Copy.

3To copy the CD or DVD:

•If you have one CD/DVD drive, ensure that the settings are correct and click the Disc Copy button. The computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

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

•If you have two CD/DVD drives, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or DVD and click the 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 media) 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 the maximum storage capacity of a CD-R is reached, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on the CD later.

Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of data. 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 the disc later.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer		29

CD-Writable Drives

Media Type	Read	Write	Rewritable

CD-R	Yes	Yes	No
CD-RW	Yes	Yes	Yes

DVD-Writable Drives

Media Type	Read	Write	Rewritable

CD-R	Yes	Yes	No
CD-RW	Yes	Yes	Yes
DVD+R	Yes	Yes	No
DVD-R	Yes	Yes	No
DVD+RW	Yes	Yes	Yes
DVD-RW	Yes	Yes	Yes
DVD+R DL	Yes	Yes	No

Helpful Tips

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

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

•You cannot create audio DVDs with Roxio Creator Plus.

•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 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.

30 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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