Dell XPS 700 User Manual

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Contents

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

1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Front and Back View of the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Front View

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

Front I/O Connectors Back View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Back I/O Connectors

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

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

Attaching the Computer Stand

Connecting Monitors

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

Connecting a Monitor (Without an Adapter) Connecting a Monitor (With an Adapter)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

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

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

Connecting a Monitor in a Dual Graphics Card Configuration Connecting Two or More Monitors Connecting a TV

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

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

Changing the Display Settings to Support Two or More Monitors

About Your RAID Configuration

RAID Level 0 Configuration RAID Level 1 Configuration Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility Using Nvidia MediaShield

Playing CDs and DVDs

Playing a CD or DVD Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

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

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

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. . . . . . . 22

. . . . . 25

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

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

Contents 3

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Network Setup Wizard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Power Management

Overview Standby Mode Hibernate Mode Power Options Properties

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

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

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

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

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

2 Optimizing Performance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Understanding Hyper-Threading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Understanding PCI Express Cards

Understanding Dual Graphics Technology

Understanding CPU Over-Clocking

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

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

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

3 Solving Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Troubleshooting Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Battery Problems

Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems

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

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

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4 Contents

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Keyboard Problems

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

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

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

Lockups and Software Problems

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

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

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

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

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A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system

. . . . . 51

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A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Finding Information

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

not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

• Drivers for my computer

• My device documentation

• Desktop System Software (DSS)

• Warranty information

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD)

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the Drivers and Utilities CD to reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 67), access your documentation or run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 64).

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

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at

support.dell.com.

Dell™ Product Information Guide

Finding Information 9

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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

contact support.

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

10 Finding Information

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What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

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

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region or business segment to view the

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 on your computer, you should also reinstall the DSS utility. DSS automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration, providing 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.

• How to use Windows XP

• How to work with programs and files

• How to personalize my desktop

To download Desktop System Software:

Go to

support.dell.com

and then enter your Service Tag or product model.

Select

Drivers & Downloads

Select your operating system and language, and then search for the keyword

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary

depending on your selections.

Windows Help and Support Center

Click

Start→

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

Click the topic that describes your problem.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

, select your business segment,

, and then click Go.

Desktop System Software

Help and Support

Finding Information 11

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What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to reinstall my operating system

Operating System CD

The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the Operating System CD (see "Reinstalling Microsoft on page 71).

NOTE: The color of your Operating System CD varies

according to the operating system you ordered.

Windows® XP"

After you reinstall the operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities CD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

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

12 Finding Information

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Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front and Back View of the Computer

Front View

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 13

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1 front I/O connectors Plug USB and other devices into the

Connectors" on page 15).

2 3.5-inch drive bays (2) Can hold an optional Media Card Reader or floppy drive.

3-6 5.25-inch drive bays (4) Can hold a CD/DVD drive, or a SATA hard drive in a 5.25-inch drive bay carrier.

appropriate connectors (

see "Front I/O

NOTE: The hard-drive carrier is only for use in the 5.25-inch drive bays. The

floppy-drive/Media Card Reader and hard-drive carriers are not interchangeable.

7 front panel LEDs (4) Multi-colored lights provide illumination for the front of the computer.

NOTE: The color of the front panel LEDs can be adjusted in system setup (see

"System Setup" on page 132).

8 CD/DVD drive tray eject

button (4)

9 front panel LEDs (4) Multi-colored lights provide illumination for the front of the computer.

Use to eject the drive tray of a CD/DVD drive.

NOTE: The CD/DVD drive tray eject button is not a handle. The self-tending doors

open automatically when the eject button is pressed and the drive tray is ejected.

NOTE: The color of the front panel LEDs can be adjusted in system setup (see

"System Setup" on page 132).

10 power button Press 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.

NOTE: The power button can also be used to wake the system or to place it into a

power-saving state (see "Power Management" on page 39).

11 power light The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:

• No light — The computer is turned off.

• Steady green — The computer is in a normal operating state.

• Blinking green — The computer is in a power-saving state.

• Steady amber — There may be a problem with an installed device (see "Solving Problems" on page 45).

• Blinking amber — An internal power problem may exist (see "Power Problems" on page 54).

12 computer stand Attach the computer stand to provide stability to the system.

CAUTION: The computer stand should be installed at all times to ensure

maximum system stability. Failure to install the stand could result in the computer tipping over, potentially resulting in bodily injury or damage to the computer.

14 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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Front I/O Connectors

4567213

1 microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone for

voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

2 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones.

3 diagnostic lights (4) Use the sequence of these diagnostics lights to help troubleshoot a problem with

your computer (see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 61).

4 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 your CD player is operating.

5 network link light The network link light is on when a good connection exists between a network and

the computer.

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 bootable USB devices see "Boot Sequence" on page 138.

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

7 IEEE 1394 connector Use the IEEE 1394 connector for high-speed data devices such as digital video

cameras and external storage devices.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15

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Back View

1 power connector Insert the power cable. The appearance of this connector may differ from what is

pictured.

2 back panel LEDs (2) Multi-colored lights provide illumination for the I/O panel on the back of the

computer.

NOTE: The color of the back panel LEDs can be adjusted in system setup (see

"System Setup" on page 132).

3 back I/O connectors Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the

Connectors" on page 17).

4 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI or PCI Express cards.

appropriate connectors

(see "Back I/O

NOTE: Some connector slots support full-length cards.

16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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Back I/O Connectors

213

1 link integrity light

2 network adapter

connector

• 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.

NOTICE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network adapter 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 intra- and extranet).

45 6 7 8

1213

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.

3 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.

4 keyboard connector Plug a standard PS/2 keyboard into the purple keyboard connector. Turn off the

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

5 mouse connector Plug a standard PS/2 mouse into the green mouse connector. Turn off the

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 17

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6 side surround sound

connector

7 center subwoofer/LFE

connector

8 surround sound

connector

9 line-in connector Use the (blue) line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a

10 line-out/headphone

connector

11 microphone connector Use the (pink) microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone

12 S/PDIF connector Use the S/PDIF connector to transmit digital audio without going through an

13 serial connector Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. If necessary,

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

Use the (silver) side surround connector to attach additional speakers.

Use the (orange) subwoofer connector to attach a single subwoofer.

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.

Use the (black) surround sound connector to attach multichannel-capable speakers.

cassette player, CD player, or VCR.

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

Use the (green) line-out connector to attach headphones and speakers with integrated amplifiers.

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

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

analog audio conversion process.

the address for this port can be modified through system setup (see "System Setup" on page 132).

printers and keyboards.

NOTE: It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you

connect occasionally, such as flash memory keys, cameras, or bootable USB devices.

15 IEEE 1394 connector Use the IEEE 1394 connector for high-speed data devices such as digital video

cameras and external storage devices.

Attaching the Computer Stand

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

Information Guide.

CAUTION: Your computer is heavy and can be difficult to maneuver. Seek assistance before attempting to lift,

move, or tilt the computer and always lift correctly to avoid injury; avoid bending over while lifting.

18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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CAUTION: The computer stand should be installed at all times to ensure maximum system stability. Failure to

install the stand could result in the computer tipping over, potentially resulting in bodily injury or damage to the computer.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the thumb screw that is installed on the base of the computer.

NOTE: If the thumb screw is not already installed in the stand, it has been packaged separately.

Insert the six alignment tabs into the corresponding slots on the base of the computer, then slide the stand forward until all six tabs catch in the slots.

Ensure that the screw hole on the stand is aligned with the screw hole on the base of the computer.

Insert the captive screw into the screwhole, then tighten the screw to secure the stand to the base of the computer.

1 captive screw 2 stabilizing feet (closed) 3 computer stand

4 slots (6)

With the help of an assistant, carefully set the computer upright.

Carefully, lift the rear of the computer and slide the stabilizing feet outward into the open position.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 19

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Connecting Monitors

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

Information Guide.

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, do not overload an electrical outlet, power strip, or

convenience receptacle. The total ampere rating of all products plugged into an electrical outlet, power strip, or other receptacle should not exceed 80 percent of the branch circuit rating.

NOTE: Depending on the options selected when you purchased your computer, your video card may have two DVI

ports, or one DVI and one VGA port.

1 DVI (white) connector 2 TV-OUT connector 3 VGA (blue) connector

Connecting a Monitor (Without an Adapter)

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

Information Guide.

NOTE: If your monitor has a VGA connector and your computer does not have a VGA port, follow the instructions in

"Connecting a Monitor (With an Adapter)" on page 21.

Turn off the computer and all attached devices:

Click

Start

, then click

In the

Turn off computer

The computer performs a shutdown of the operating system, and then turns off.

NOTE: Ensure that the computer is off and not in a power management mode. If you cannot shut down the

computer using the operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Turn Off Computer

window, click

Tur n off

Page 19

Disconnect the computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.

Connect the DVI or VGA connector of your monitor to the appropriate connector on the back of the computer:

To connect a monitor with a DVI connector, use the (white) DVI port on your computer.

To connect a monitor with a VGA connector, use the (blue) VGA port on your computer.

Connecting a Monitor (With an Adapter)

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

Information Guide.

NOTE: In order to connect a monitor with a VGA connector to the DVI port on the back of your computer, a DVI-to-

VGA adapter is required.

Turn off the computer and all attached devices:

Click

Start

, then click

In the

Turn off computer

The computer performs a shutdown of the operating system, and then turns off.

NOTE: Ensure that the computer is off and not in a power management mode. If you cannot shut down the

computer using the operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

Disconnect the computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.

Connect the DVI-to-VGA adapter to the VGA connector on your monitor, and then connect the other end of the adapter to the (white) DVI port on the back of the computer.

Turn Off Computer

window, click

Tur n off

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 21

Page 20

1 DVI (white) connector 2 DVI-to-VGA adapter

(optional)

3 TV-OUT connector

Connecting a Monitor in a Dual Graphics Card Configuration

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

Information Guide.

Dual graphics card configurations with multi-GPU technology enabled support only a single monitor. The monitor must be connected to the primary graphics card in order to function.

NOTE: If your primary graphics card is equipped with two DVI ports and you are using a monitor with a VGA

connector, a DVI-to-VGA adapter is required to connect the monitor (see "Connecting a Monitor (With an Adapter)" on page 21).

22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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primary video card

Turn off the computer and all attached devices:

Click

Start

In the

Turn off computer

, then click

Turn Off Computer

window, click

Tur n off

The computer performs a shutdown of the operating system, and then turns off.

NOTE: Ensure that the computer is off and not in a power management mode. If you cannot shut down the

computer using the operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

Disconnect the computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.

Connect the DVI or VGA connector of your monitor to the appropriate connector on the computer’s primary graphics card:

To connect a monitor with a DVI connector, use the (white) DVI port on the primary graphics card.

To connect a monitor with a VGA connector, use the (blue) VGA port on the primary graphics card.

Connecting Two or More Monitors

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

Information Guide.

NOTE: In order to connect and use two or more monitors in a dual graphics card configuration, multi-GPU

technology must be disabled. To disable multi-GPU, see "Changing the Display Settings to Support Two or More Monitors" on page 25.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 23

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NOTE: Depending on the options selected when you purchased your computer, your video card may have two DVI

ports, or one DVI and one VGA port.

Turn off the computer and all attached devices:

Click

Start

In the

Turn off computer

, then click

Turn Off Computer

window, click

Tur n off

The computer performs a shutdown of the operating system, and then turns off.

NOTE: Ensure that the computer is off and not in a power management mode. If you cannot shut down the

computer using the operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

Disconnect the computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.

Connect two or more monitors to the appropriate DVI or VGA ports on the back of the computer.

NOTE: In order to connect a monitor with a VGA connector to the DVI port on the back of your computer, a

DVI-to-VGA adapter is required.

To connect two or more monitors directly to the DVI or VGA ports on your computer, see "Connecting a Monitor (Without an Adapter)" on page 20.

To connect the VGA connectors of one or more monitors to the DVI port(s) on your computer, see "Connecting a Monitor (With an Adapter)" on page 21.

Change the display settings to support multiple monitors (see "Changing the Display Settings to Support Two or More Monitors" on page 25).

Connecting a TV

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

Information Guide.

NOTE: If you are connecting a TV to your computer, you may connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to

the TV.

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

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.

Turn off the computer and all attached devices:

Click

Start

In the

Turn off computer

, then click

Turn Off Computer

window, click

Tur n off

The computer performs a shutdown of the operating system, and then turns off.

NOTE: Ensure that the computer is off and not in a power management mode. If you cannot shut down the

computer using the operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

Disconnect the computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.

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

24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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

Connect one monitor, as needed, with a DVI or VGA connector as described in "Connecting Monitors" on page 20.

Changing the Display Settings to Support Two or More Monitors

NOTE: Dual graphics card configurations with multi-GPU technology enabled support only a single monitor. In

order to connect and use two or more monitors in a dual graphics card configuration with multi-GPU technology, multi-GPU must be disabled.

With your monitors connected and turned on, turn on the computer.

The Microsoft

Disable multi-GPU technology in the display settings (applies only to dual graphics card configurations with multi-GPU technology enabled):

For information on disabling multi-GPU technology, see the documentation that came with your graphics card.

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

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

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

For more information on changing the display settings for your graphics card, see the device user’s guide in the Help and Support Center (click Start, click Help and Support, click User and system guides, click Device guides, and then click the guide for your graphics card).

Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.

About Your RAID Configuration

NOTICE: In order to use the migrating option to convert a RAID configuration without losing data, your hard drive

must initially be set up as a single drive RAID 0 array before the operating system is loaded onto the drive (see "Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility" on page 28 for instructions).

This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration you may have selected when you purchased your computer. There are several RAID configurations available in the computer industry for different types of uses. Your Dell XPS computer supports RAID level 0 and RAID level 1. A RAID level 0 configuration is recommended for high-performance programs while RAID level 1 is recommended for users that desire a high level of data integrity.

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.

The drives in a RAID configuration should be the same size in order to ensure that the larger drive does not contain unallocated (and therefore unusable) space.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 25

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RAID Level 0 Configuration

NOTICE: Because a RAID level 0 configuration provides no data redundancy, a failure of one drive results in the

loss of all data. To protect your data when using a RAID level 0 configuration, perform regular backups.

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

serial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 0

segment 1

segment 3

segment 5

hard drive 1

segment 2

segment 4

segment 6

hard drive 2

Another advantage of a RAID level 0 configuration is that it utilizes the full storage capacities of the drives. For example, two 120-GB hard drives combine to provide 240 GB of hard drive space on which to store data.

NOTE: In a RAID level 0 configuration, the size of the configuration is equal to the size of the smallest drive

multiplied by the number of drives in the configuration.

RAID Level 1 Configuration

RAID level 1 uses a data-redundancy storage technique known as mirroring to enhance data integrity. When data is written to the primary drive, the data is also duplicated, or mirrored, on the second drive in the configuration. A RAID level 1 configuration sacrifices high data-access rates for its data redundancy advantages.

26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

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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.

NOTE: In a RAID level 1 configuration, the size of the configuration is equal to the size of the smallest drive in the

configuration.

Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID

Your computer can be configured for RAID, even if you did not select a RAID configuration when the computer was purchased. For an explanation of RAID levels and their requirements, see "About Your RAID Configuration" on page 25. For information on how to install a hard drive, see "Installing a Hard Drive" on page 101.

You can use one of two methods to configure RAID hard drive volumes. The first method uses the Nvidia MediaShield ROM utility and is performed before you install the operating system onto the hard drive. The second method uses Nvidia MediaShield and is performed after you have installed the operating system and Nvidia RAID drivers.

Both methods require that you set your computer to RAID-enabled mode before you begin.

Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode

Enter system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 132).

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight

Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the applicable SATA drive, then press <Enter>.

Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight

Drives

, then press <Enter>.

RAID On

, and then press <Enter>. Repeat the

process, as needed, for each SATA hard drive.

NOTE: For more information about RAID options, see "System Setup Options" on page 133.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 27

Page 26

Press <Esc>, press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight

Save/Exit

, and then press <Enter> to

exit system setup and resume the boot process.

Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility

NOTICE: The following procedure will result in the loss of all data on your hard drive(s). Back up any data you want

to keep before continuing.

NOTE: Do not use the following procedure to migrate an existing RAID configuration (see "Converting From One

RAID Configuration to Another RAID Configuration" on page 30.

Hard drives of any size may be used to create a RAID configuration. Ideally, however, the drives should be of equal size to avoid unallocated or unused space. For an explanation of RAID levels and their requirements, see "About Your RAID Configuration" on page 25. For information on how to install a hard drive, see "Installing a Hard Drive" on page 101.

Enable RAID for each applicable hard drive on your computer (see "Setting Your Computer to RAIDEnabled Mode" on page 27).

Restart the computer.

Press <Ctrl><N> when prompted to enter the RAID BIOS.

NOTE: If the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop,

then shut down your computer and try again.

The

Define a New Array

Press <Tab> to navigate to the

To create a RAID 0 configuration, use the arrow keys to select

window appears.

RAID Mode

field.

Striping

To create a RAID 1 configuration, use the arrow keys to select

Press <Tab> to navigate to the

Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select a hard drive to include in the RAID array and then use the

Free Disks

field.

right-arrow key to move the selected drive from the each disk you want to include in the RAID array.

NOTE: Your computer supports a maximum of two drives per RAID 1 array and four drives per RAID 0 array.

After assigning the hard drives to an array, press <F9>.

The

Clear disk data

NOTICE: You will lose all data on the selected drives in the next step.

Press <Y> to clear all data from the selected drives.

The

Array List

prompt appears.

window appears.

28 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Free Disks

Mirroring

field to the

Array Disks

field. Repeat for

Page 27

To review the details of the array that you set up, use the arrow keys to highlight the array in the

window and press <Enter>.

Detail

The

Array Detail

NOTE: To delete an array, use the arrow keys to select the array and press <D>.

Press <Enter> to return to the previous screen.

Press <Ctrl><X> to exit the RAID BIOS.

window appears.

Array

Using Nvidia MediaShield

Nvidia MediaShield allows you to create, view, and manage RAID configurations.

NOTE: Use Nvidia MediaShield to create a RAID configuration only when you are adding one or more new hard

drives to an existing (non-RAID) single-drive computer, and you want to configure the new drive(s) into a RAID array.

Hard drives of any size may be used to create a RAID configuration using Nvidia MediaShield. Ideally, however, the drives should be of equal size to avoid unallocated or unused space. For an explanation of RAID levels and their requirements, see "About Your RAID Configuration" on page 25.

Creating a RAID Array

NOTICE: The following procedure will result in the loss of all data on your hard drive(s). Back up any data you want

to keep before continuing.

NOTE: Do not use the following procedure to migrate an existing RAID configuration (see "Converting From One

RAID Configuration to Another RAID Configuration" on page 30.

Enable RAID on your hard drives (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 27).

After rebooting your computer, launch Nvidia MediaShield.

Click

Create

The

NVIDIA Create Array Wizard

under

System Tasks

appears and lists the disks that are available for configuration.

Click

Custom

Use the drop-down box to select

Click

Free Disk Selection

The

NOTE: Only RAID-enabled hard drives are listed as free disks.

Click to select the drives that will make up the RAID configuration, click

, then click

Striping

window appears.

(RAID 0) or

Mirroring

(RAID 1).

, and then click

again.

NOTE: Your computer supports a maximum of two drives per RAID 1 array and four per RAID 0 array.

The

Clearing System Data

window appears.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 29

Page 28

NOTICE: The Clear System Data option deletes all data on the selected drive.

Click

Finish

to create the RAID configuration.

The MediaShield RAID management utility window appears and lists the array along with any other installed hard drives.

Deleting a RAID Array

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.

NOTE: If your computer currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume, your computer will become

unbootable.

Launch Nvidia MediaShield.

Click to select the array you want to delete.

Click

Delete Array

The

NVIDIA Delete Array Wizard

Click

in the

System Tasks

pane.

appears.

A confirmation screen appears with the name and size of the array that you have marked for deletion.

Click

Finish

to delete the RAID configuration.

The MediaShield RAID management utility window appears and lists any remaining arrays along with any other installed hard drives.

Converting From One RAID Configuration to Another RAID Configuration

NOTICE: In order to use the migrating option to convert a RAID configuration without losing data, your hard drive

must initially be set up as a single drive RAID 0 array before the operating system is loaded onto the drive (see "Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility" on page 28 for instructions).

Nvidia MediaShield utilizes a one-step process known as migrating to change the current state of a disk or array without losing any data. If needed, additional hard drives can be added to an existing array, including a single-drive RAID 0 configuration for conversion to a two-drive RAID 0 configuration; however, the capacity of the resulting array must be equal to or greater than the size of the original configuration.

RAID 1 to RAID 1

NOTICE: Additional hard drives to be used in the (migrated) array must be no smaller than any of the drives in the

current configuration.

conversions cannot be performed using the migrating process:

30 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 29

NOTE: Ensure that all drives to be used in the RAID configuration are RAID-enabled (see "Setting Your Computer to

RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 27.)

Launch Nvidia MediaShield.

Click to select the array you want to convert.

Click

Convert Array

NVIDIA Convert Array Wizard

The

Click

Under

RAID Mode Selection

Click

NOTICE: You will lose all data on the selected drives in the next step.

Under

Free Disk Selection

in the

System Tasks

pane.

appears.

, select

Mirroring

Striping

from the drop-down menu.

, select the hard drive(s) you want to include in the (migrated) array by

clicking the checkbox beside it.

Click

Finish

The MediaShield RAID management utility window appears and displays the status of the upgrade/migration process along with any other installed hard drives.

NOTE: The time it takes to convert an array depends on several factors, such as the speed of the CPU, the

type and size of the hard drive being used, the operating system, etc.

Rebuilding a RAID Configuration

If one of the hard drives in a RAID array fails, you can rebuild the array by restoring the data to a replacement drive.

NOTE: Rebuilding an array can only be performed on RAID 1 and configurations.

Launch Nvidia MediaShield.

Click to select your RAID configuration (

Select

Rebuild Array

NVIDIA Rebuild Array Wizard

The

Click

Select the hard drive you want to rebuild by clicking the checkbox beside it.

Click

Finish

in the

System Tasks

Mirroring

pane.

appears.

) in the management utility window.

The MediaShield RAID management utility window appears and displays the status of the rebuild process.

NOTE: You can use your computer while the computer is rebuilding the array.

NOTE: You can use any available (RAID-enabled) free disk to rebuild an array.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 31

Page 30

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.

Press the eject button on the front of the computer (see "Front View" on page 13) to open the drive tray.

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

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 controls:

Play

Move backward within the current track

Pau se

Move forward within the current track

Stop

Go to the previous track

Eject

Go to the next track

32 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 31

A DVD player includes the following basic controls:

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

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.

Click

Start

, point to

In the

Master Volume

it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.

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

All Programs→ Accessories→ Entertainment

control window, click and drag the bar in the

, and then click

Master Volume

Volume Control

column and slide

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

Start

Under

Pick a category

Under

Pick a task...

In the

Display Properties

800 by 600 pixels

Under

Color quality

Click OK.

, then click

Control Panel

, click

Appearance and Themes

, click

Change the screen resolution

window, click and drag the bar in

, click the drop-down menu, and then click

Screen resolution

Medium (16 bit)

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 33

to change the setting to

Page 32

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 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.

Click

Start

, point to

Under the

To copy the CD or DVD:

•

Copy

If you have one CD/DVD drive

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

All Programs→ Roxio→ Creator Projects

tab, click

Disc Copy

, ensure that the settings are correct, and then click

, and then click

RecordNow Copy

Disc Copy

. The

If you have two CD/DVD drives

• DVD, and then click blank CD or DVD.

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

Disc Copy

, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or

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

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.

34 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 33

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.

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

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 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.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 35

Page 34

• 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)

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

Information Guide.

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 card (SMC)

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

• MicroDrive card

• SecureDigital card (SD)

• MiniSD card

• MultiMediaCard (MMC)

• Reduced-size MultiMediaCard (RS-MMC)

• Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro/MS Duo/MS Pro Duo)

For information on installing a media card reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on page 112.

36 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 35

1 xD-Picture card and

SmartMedia Card (SMC)

4 CompactFlash card Type I

and II (CF I/II) and MicroDrive card

Inspect the media card to determine the proper orientation for insertion.

Slide the media card into the appropriate slot of the media card reader until it is completely seated in

Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro/MS Duo/MS Pro Duo)

3 Secure Digital card

(SD/miniSD)/MultiMediaCard (MMC/RS-MMC)

the connector.

If you encounter resistance, remove the card, check for proper orientation, and then try again.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 37

Page 36

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

Start

, point to

Wizard

On the welcome screen, click

Click

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 SP1.

Complete the checklist and required preparations.

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

All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications

, and then click

Network Setup

Transferring Information to a New Computer

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

•E-mail

• Toolbar settings

• Window sizes

• Internet bookmarks

The data can be transferred over a network or serial connection, or you can store it on a removable medium, such as a writable CD/DVD or floppy disk.

To prepare the new computer for the file transfer:

Click

Start

, point to

Transfer Wizard

The

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

welcome screen appears.

, and then click

Files and Settings

Click

On the

When the the data to be transferred.

38 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Which computer is this?

Do you have a Windows XP CD?

, and then click

Now go to your old computer

Do not

screen, click

screen appears, go to the source (old) computer that contains

click

at this time.

New Computer

I will use the wizard from the Windows XP

, and then click

Page 37

To copy data from the source computer:

On the source computer, insert the Windows XP

On the

Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP

Under

What do you want to do?

On the

After the information has been copied, the

Click

To transfer data to the new computer:

On the

On the and settings, and then click

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

Files and Settings Transfer Wizard

Which computer is this?

Select a transfer method

What do you want to transfer?

Finish

Now go to your old computer

Where are the files and settings?

, click

Transfer files and settings

screen, click

screen, click the transfer method of your preference.

screen, select the items you want to transfer, then click

screen on the new computer, click

screen, select the method you chose for transferring your files

Operating System

screen, click

welcome screen, click

Old Computer

Completing the Collection Phase

Perform additional tasks

CD.

, and then click

screen appears.

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

Click

Finished

and restart the computer.

Finished

screen appears.

Power Management

Overview

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, it returns to the operating state it was in prior to entering 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.

NOTE: The procedures to activate the standby and hibernate modes may vary according to your operating system.

Standby Mode

Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a designated period of time, known as a time-out. When the computer exits from standby mode, it computer returns to the operating state it was in prior to entering standby mode.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 39

Page 38

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

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

Click

Start

, then click

Under

Pick a category

Under

or pick a Control Panel icon

To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click Start, click Turn Off Computer, and then click Stand by.

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

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

, click

Power Options

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

Start

Under

Define your hibernate settings on the

To exit from hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit from hibernate mode. Because the keyboard and mouse do not function in hibernate mode, pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the computer out of hibernation.

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.

, then click

Pick a category

or pick a Control Panel icon

prior to entering hibernate mode.

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

, click

Power Options

Power Schemes

tab,

Advanced

tab, and

Hibernate

tab.

Power Options Properties

Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the Power Options Properties window.

Click

Start

, then click

Under

Pick a category

Under

or pick a Control Panel icon

Define your power settings on the

40 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

To access the Power Options Properties window:

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

, click

Power Options

Power Schemes

tab,

Advanced

tab, and

Hibernate

tab.

Page 39

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 Power schemes drop-down menu. The settings for each scheme appear in the fields below the scheme name. Each scheme has different settings for starting standby mode, hibernate mode, turning off the monitor, and turning off the hard drive.

NOTICE: If you set the hard drive 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 timeout before the hard drive.

The Power schemes drop-down menu displays the following schemes:

•

Always On

•

Home/Office Desk

Portable/Laptop

•

Presentation

•

Minimal Power Management

Max Battery

•

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

— If you want your home or office computer to run with little power conservation.

— If your computer is a portable computer that you use for traveling.

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

— If you want your computer to run with minimal power conservation.

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

extended periods of time.

If you want to change the default settings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the Turn off monitor, Turn off hard disks, System stand by, or System hibernates field, and then select a time-out

from the displayed list. Changing the time-out for a scheme field permanently changes the default settings for that scheme, unless you click Save As and enter a new name for the changed scheme.

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 OK.

Hibernate Tab

The Hibernate tab allows you to enable hibernate mode. If you want to use the hibernate settings as defined on the Power Schemes tab, click the Enable hibernate support check box on the Hibernate tab.

For more information on power management options:

Click

Start

, then click

In the

Help and Support

In the

Performance and maintenance

Help and Support

window, click

Performance and maintenance

window, click

Conserving power on your computer

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 41

Page 40

42 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Page 41

Optimizing Performance

Understanding 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 as 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

Start

, right-click

Click

Hardware

In the

Device Manager

enabled, the processor is listed twice.

You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. For more information on accessing system setup, see "System Setup" on page 132. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the Knowledge Base on the Dell website at support.dell.com.

My Computer

, then click

window, click the plus (+) sign next to

, and then click

Device Manager

Properties

Understanding PCI Express Cards

Windows® XP Service Pack 1

Processors

. If Hyper-Threading is

PCI Express is the next generation technology for graphics cards and PCI cards. The PCI Express x16 slot is used in place of the AGP graphics card slot. The dimensions of PCI Express card slots are different from those of the PCI card slots, and the cards are not interchangeable (you cannot install a PCI card in a PCI Express card slot, or a PCI Express card in a PCI card slot).

Some benefits of PCI Express technology include:

• Greater available bandwidth — PCI Express bus bandwidth is 250 MB/s in each direction per lane simultaneously, while PCI bus bandwidth is 133 MB/s in one direction at a time.

• Prioritization of service — Multiple PCI cards installed in a computer all share a common bus, but each PCI Express card operates on its own channel. Activities such as video conferencing and web camera functions can be automatically prioritized through the device software to reduce latency.

Optimizing Performance 43

Page 42

Understanding Dual Graphics Technology

With dual-graphics technology, an optional second PCI Express graphics card will significantly increase graphics performance on your computer. Benefits of this technology can be seen in the improved portrayal of the 3-D graphics used in gaming and design applications.

Each graphics card includes at least one GPU (graphics processing unit). In dual graphics card configurations, multiple GPUs dynamically share their workload to provide the best possible performance. For a given application, the software selects the optimum rendering (processing) mode.

For more information, see the documentation that came with your graphics card.

Understanding CPU Over-Clocking

NOTICE: Dell does not recommend operating the CPU at a frequency that is greater than the manufacturer’s

design specifications. Operating the CPU in this manner may cause your system to shut down unexpectedly, may result in a loss of data, and may reduce the operational life of the processor. If the system shuts down unexpectedly or is unstable, select a lower CPU operating frequency.

Your Dell computer provides the limited capability to adjust the operating frequency, or clock speed, of the processor.

Altering the CPU operating frequency (commonly referred to as speed of the processor to a frequency that is faster than the processor manufacturer’s design specifications, and possibly enhance the overall performance of your system.

Dell does not guarantee that your computer will function or remain stable during the use of any extended operating frequencies. If your computer shuts down unexpectedly or is unstable, select a lower operating frequency for the CPU.

You can make limited adjustments to the CPU operating frequency in system setup. For more information on accessing system setup, see "System Setup" on page 132.

over-clocking

) enables you to increases the

44 Optimizing Performance

Page 43

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 support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).

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

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 "Replacing the Battery" on page 123). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 145).

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 Start, then 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.

Solving Problems 45

Page 44

TEST THE DRIVE —

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

• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK —

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"

on page 71.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 64.

See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 141.

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 56.

Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive

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

TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC — See "Standby Mode" on page 39 or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help and Support Center (click Start, then click Help and Support) for information on power management modes.

46 Solving Problems

Page 45

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK —

Click

Start

, then click

Right-click

Click

Click the

Under

Click

Local Disk C:

Properties

Tools

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

tab.

My Computer

, click

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.

NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network adapter connector (see "Back I/O Connectors" on page 17).

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

, and then click

to remove the checkmark, as needed.

Security

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION — C

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 hear 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, then 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, 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.

Solving Problems 47

Page 46

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

diagnostics are not available on all computers.

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —

Click

Start

, then click

Click

Printers and Other Hardware

Click

Phone and Modem Options

Click the

Click the COM port for your modem.

Click

Modems

Properties

Control Panel

tab.

, click the

Diagnostics

tab, and then click

Query Modem

to verify that the modem is

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

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.

Error Messages

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

Information Guide.

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

Start

, click

Control Panel

Under

Currently installed programs

Click

Change or Remove

See the program documentation for installation instructions.

, and then click

Add or Remove Programs

, select the program you want to remove.

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 disk or CD.

48 Solving Problems

Page 47

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

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 may 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 "Contacting Dell" on page 145).

NOTE: If the error message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the

program that was running when the me]ssage appeared.

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

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

Information Guide.

ENSURE THAT THE CABLE FOR THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS PROPERLY INSERTED INTO THE DEVICE AND

INTO THE CONNECTOR ON THE COMPUTER

ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS ENABLED IN SYSTEM SETUP — See "System Setup Options" on page 133.

ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —

Click

Start

, then click

Click

Printers and Other Hardware

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

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL IEEE 1394 DEVICE — Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 145).

F YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY DELL — Contact the

IEEE 1394 device manufacturer.

Control Panel

Keyboard Problems

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

Information Guide.

Solving Problems 49

Page 48

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE —

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

• Shut down the computer (see "Preparing to Work Inside Your Computer" on page 75), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer.

• Ensure that the cable is not damaged or frayed and check cable connectors for bent or broken pins. Straighten any bent pins.

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

TEST THE KEYBOARD — Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, then try using the keyboard.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 71.

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 "Diagnostic Lights" on page 61.

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

OUTLET

The computer stops responding

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

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

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

50 Solving Problems

Page 49

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to access the Windows Task Manager.

Click the

Click to select the program that is no longer responding.

Click

Applications

End Task

tab.

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Most software includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.

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

A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —

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

Click

Start

, point to

In the welcome screen, click

Follow the instructions on the screen.

All Programs→ Accessories

, and then click

Program Compatibility Wizard

A solid blue screen appears

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

Solving Problems 51

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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 "Installing Memory" on page 82).

• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 81) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 64).

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —

• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 81) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Installing Memory" on page 82).

• Ensure that the memory you are using is supported by your computer. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 127.

• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 64).

52 Solving Problems

Page 51

Mouse Problems

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

Information Guide.

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —

• Ensure that the cable is not damaged or frayed and check cable connectors for bent or broken pins. Straighten any bent pins.

• Remove any mouse extension cables, and connect the mouse directly to the computer.

• Verify that the mouse cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

RESTART THE COMPUTER —

Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the

Press <u>, <Enter>.

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

Turn on the computer.

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

CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS —

Click

Adjusting the settings, as needed.

press the up- and down-arrow keys

Start

, click

Mouse

Control Panel

, and then click

Start

menu.

to highlight

Printers and Other Hardware

Shut down

Turn Off

, and then press

REINSTALL THE MOUSE DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 67.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"

on page 71.

Network Problems

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

Information Guide.

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

Solving Problems 53

Page 52

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE BACK OF THE COMPUTER — If the link integrity light is off (see see "Controls and Lights" on page 129), no network communication is occurring. Replace the network cable.

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 "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 71.

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 "Diagnostic Lights" on page 61.

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 in the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.

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

• Ensure that any power strips being used are plugged into an electrical outlet and are turned on.

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

• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 79).

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

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

• Ensure that all components and cables are properly installed and securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 79).

54 Solving Problems

Page 53

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

• Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board power connector (POWER2) (see "System Board Components" on page 79).

• Remove and then reinstall all memory modules (see "Memory" on page 81).

• Remove and then reinstall any expansion cards, including graphics cards (see "Removing PCI and PCI Express Cards" on page 86).

ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE — Some possible causes of interference are:

• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables

• Too many devices connected to the same power strip

• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

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

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.

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

Start

, click

Control Panel

Click

View installed printers or fax printers

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

Click

port(s):

USB

Properties

is set to .

, then click the

LPT1 (Printer Port)

, and then click

Ports

tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that

. For a USB printer, ensure that

Printers and Other Hardware

Print to the following

Print to the following port(s):

Solving Problems 55

is set

Page 54

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See the printer documentation for information on reinstalling the printer driver.

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 the scanner has a locking tab or button).

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —

• See the scanner documentation for information on cable connections.

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

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS —

Click

Start

, click

Control Panel

Click

Scanners and Cameras

If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

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

, 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 MP3 and other media players may override the Windows volume setting. Always

check to ensure that the volume on the media player(s) has not been turned down or off.

56 Solving Problems

Page 55

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

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

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

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

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

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

RUN THE SPEAKER DIAGNOSTICS

REINSTALL THE SOUND DRIVER — See "Drivers" on page 67.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"

on page 71.

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see "Front and Back View of the Computer" on page 13).

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.

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Video and Monitor Problems

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

Information Guide.

NOTICE: If your computer came with a PCI graphics card installed, removal of the card is not necessary when

installing additional graphics cards; however, the card is required for troubleshooting purposes. If you remove the card, store it in a safe and secure location.

The screen is blank

NOTE: For troubleshooting procedures, see the monitor’s documentation.

CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION —

• Ensure that the monitor cable is connected to the correct graphics card (for dual graphics card configurations).

• If you are using the optional graphics card and monitor.

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

• Remove any video extension cables and connect the monitor directly to the computer.

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

• Check the connectors 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 lit or blinking, the monitor has power.

• If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that the monitor is turned on.

• If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse to resume normal operation.

DVI-to-VGA

adapter, ensure that the adapter is correctly attached to the

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 "Diagnostic Lights" on page 61.

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.

58 Solving Problems

Page 57

MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE MONITOR — If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is positioned 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

Start

, click

Click

Adjust

Control Panel

Display

, then click the

Screen resolution

, and then click

Settings

tab.

and

Color quality settings, as needed.

Appearance and Themes

3-D image quality is poor

CHECK THE GRAPHICS CARD POWER CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the power cable for the graphics card(s) is correctly attached to the card.

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.

Solving Problems 59

Page 58

60 Solving Problems

Page 59

Advanced Troubleshooting

Diagnostic Lights

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

Product Information Guide.

To help troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled 1, 2, 3, and 4 on the front panel (see "Front View" on page 13). When the computer starts normally, the lights flash before turning off. If the computer malfunctions, the sequence of the lights help to identify the problem.

NOTE: After the computer completes POST, all four lights turn off before booting to the operating system.

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

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

The diagnostic lights are not lit after the system successfully boots to the operating system.

A possible processor failure has occurred.

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

• Plug the computer into a working electrical outlet (see "Power Problems" on page 54).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell

• Reseat the processor (see "Processor" on page 120).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell

• If two or more memory modules are installed, remove the modules (see "Removing Memory" on page 84), then reinstall one module (see "Installing Memory" on page 82) and restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, continue to install additional memory modules (one at a time) until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.

• If available, install working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Installing Memory" on page 82).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell

" on page 145).

Advanced Troubleshooting 61

Page 60

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

A possible graphics card failure has occurred.

A possible floppy drive or hard drive failure has occurred.

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

• Reseat any installed graphics cards (see "Cards" on page 85).

• If available, install a working graphics card into your computer.

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell

Reseat all power and data cables.

connections.

" on page 145).

No memory modules are detected.

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

• If available, install working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Installing Memory" on page 82).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell

• Ensure that no special requirements for memory module/connector placement exist (see "Memory" on page 81).

• Ensure that the memory you are using is supported by your computer (see "Memory" on page 127).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell

" on page 145).

" on page 145

62 Advanced Troubleshooting

Page 61

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

A possible expansion card failure has occurred. 1

Determine if a conflict exists by removing an expansion card (not a graphics card) and restarting the computer (see "Removing PCI and PCI Express Cards" on page 86).

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

Repeat this process for each expansion card installed. If the computer starts normally, troubleshoot the last card removed from the computer for resource conflicts (see "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 71).

If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell

Another failure has occurred.

• Ensure that all hard drive and CD/DVD drive cables are properly connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 79).

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

• If the operating system is attempting to boot from a device (such as the floppy drive or CD/DVD drive); check system setup (see "System Setup" on page 132) to ensure the boot sequence is correct for the devices installed on your computer.

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell

" on page 145).

Advanced Troubleshooting 63

Page 62

Dell Diagnostics

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

Information Guide.

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on page 45 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

NOTE: The Dell Diagnostics only operate on Dell computers.

Run Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD).

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

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

NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key is held down for extended periods of time. To avoid possible

keyboard failure, press and release <F12> in even intervals to open the Boot Device Menu.

NOTE: If at any time a message appears stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the

Dell Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities CD

and Utilities CD

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

At the

Windows® desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.

Boot Device Menu

keyboard to highlight

" on page 64

Boot to Utility Partition

, use the up- and down-arrow keys or press the appropriate number on the

(see "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers

, and then press <Enter>.

NOTE: The Quickboot feature changes the boot sequence for the current boot only. Upon restart, the

computer boots according to the boot sequence specified in system setup.

At the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

, left-click with the mouse, or press <Tab> and then <Enter>, to

select the test you want to run (see "Dell Diagnostics Main Menu" on page 65).

NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they appear and follow the

instructions on the screen.

5 After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu.

6 Close the Main Menu window to exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD

Turn on your computer.

Press the eject button on the front of the optical drive to open the drive tray.

Place the

Drivers and Utilities

CD in the center of the drive tray, then press the eject button or gently

push on the tray to close it.

64 Advanced Troubleshooting

Page 63

Restart the computer.

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

NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down for extended periods of time. To

avoid possible keyboard failure, press and release <F12> in even intervals until the Boot Device Menu appears.

If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.

At the

Boot Device Menu

keyboard to highlight

NOTE: The Quickboot feature changes the boot sequence for the current boot only. Upon restart, the

computer boots according to the boot sequence specified in system setup.

At the

CD-ROM Startup Menu

the keyboard to highlight

, use the up- and down-arrow keys or press the appropriate number on the

Onboard or USB CD-ROM

, and then press <Enter>.

, use the up- and down-arrow keys or press the appropriate number on

Boot from CD-ROM

, and then press <Enter>.

If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.

Press <1> to select the Dell Diagnostics.

At the

Dell Diagnostics Menu

press <1> to select the Dell Diagnostics for ResourceCD (graphical

user interface).

At the Dell Diagnostics

Main Menu

, left-click with the mouse, or press <Tab> and then <Enter>, to

select the test you want to run (see "Dell Diagnostics Main Menu" on page 65).

NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they appear and follow the

instructions on the screen.

11 After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu.

12 Remove the Drivers and Utilities CD, then close the Main Menu window to exit the Dell

Diagnostics and restart the computer.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

The following tests can be run from the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu:

Option Function

Express Test Performs a quick test of system devices. The test typically takes

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

Extended Test Performs a thorough check of system devices. The test typically

takes an hour or more and peridocially requires your input to answer specific questions.

Advanced Troubleshooting 65

Page 64

Option Function

Custom Test Tests a specific device in the system and can be used to

customize the tests you want to run.

Symptom Tree Lists a number of common symptoms and allows you to select a

test based on the symptom of the problem you are having.

For any problem encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description exactly as it appears and follow the instructions on the screen. If you cannot resolve the problem, contact Dell (see

"Contacting Dell" on

page 145).

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. When contacting Dell support,

have your Service Tag ready.

The following tabs provide additional information for tests run from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option:

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the

problem description.

Help Describes the test and any requirements for running the test.

Configuration

(Custom Test only)

Displays the hardware configuration for the selected device.

The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from system setup, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen.

NOTE: The device list may not display the names of all the

components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.

Par amet ers

(Custom Test only)

Allows you to customize the test, if applicable, by changing the test settings.

66 Advanced Troubleshooting

Page 65

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 as a translator between the device and any programs that use the device. Each device has a set of specialized commands that only driver for that device recognizes.

Required drivers are already installed on your computer—no further installation or configuration is needed.

NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your computer.

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

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

• Upgrade your operating system.

• Reinstall your operating system.

• Connect or install a new device.

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

Start

, then click

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

Scroll down the list of devices and check for an exclamation point (a circle with a [!]) next to the device name.

If an exclamation point appears next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver (see "Drivers" on page 67).

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Reinstalling Drivers

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and Utilities CD provide approved drivers

for your Dell computer. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer may not function properly.

Advanced Troubleshooting 67

Page 66

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

Start

Under

Click

In the

Click

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed, then click

Click the

Click

, then click

Pick a Category

System

System Properties

Device Manager

Driver

Roll Back Driver

tab.

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

Properties

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, reinstall the driver from the Drivers and Utilities CD.

Using the Drivers and Utilities CD

If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver and Windows XP Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, reinstall the driver from the Drivers and Utilities CD.

With the Windows desktop displayed, insert the

If this is your first time to use the

When the

ResourceCD Installation

Drivers and Utilities

window appears, click OK, and then follow the instructions on

Drivers and Utilities

CD.

CD, proceed to step 2. If not, go to step 4.

the screen.

When the

The

InstallShield Wizard Completed

ResourceCD

window appears.

window appears, click

Finish

Under

Welcome Dell System Owner

Click

Drivers

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

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

installed additional hardware, and applicable drivers are not displayed, exit the ResourceCD program and see the documentation that came with the hardware.

Click the driver that you want to reinstall.

NOTE: If a driver for a particular device is not listed, then a driver for that device is already included with the

operating system.

Click

Extract

, and then follow the instructions on the screen.

68 Advanced Troubleshooting

, click

Drivers

window.

Page 67

If reinstalling the driver from the Drivers and Utilities CD does not resolve the problem, use System Restore to return the computer to the operating state before the problem occurred (see "Using Microsoft

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

After extracting driver files from the Drivers and Utilities CD to your hard drive you may be required to update the driver manually.

Windows® XP System Restore" on page 69).

Drivers can be manually updated for any hardware device installed in your computer.

Click

Start

, then click

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

In the

System Properties

Click

Device Manager

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

Right-click the device for which the driver is being reinstalled, then click

Click the

Click

Click to check files are located on your hard drive.

When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click

Click

Driver

Update Driver

Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)

Include this location in the search

Finish

and restart your computer.

tab.

Control Panel

, click

Performance and Maintenance

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

, then click

Browse

Properties

and navigate to where the driver

Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore

Microsoft Windows XP System Restore allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files). Using System Restore can be helpful if changes to the system hardware, software, or settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. For information on using System Restore, see the Windows Help and Support Center (click Start, then click Help and Support).

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

files.

Creating a Restore Point

Click

Start

Ensure that

In the

, point to

Create a restore point

Restore point description

All Programs→

field, enter a name for the restore point, then click

Accessories→

is selected, then click

System Tools

, and then click

Advanced Troubleshooting 69

System Restore

Create

Page 68

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, 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 process is complete.

NOTE: If a problem occurs after you install a device driver, first try to resolve the problem by using Windows XP

Device Driver Rollback (see "Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback" on page 68), or reinstall the driver with the Drivers and Utilities CD (see "Using the Drivers and Utilities CD" on page 68).

Click

Start

, point to

Ensure that

Under

Restore my computer to an earlier time

Select a Restore Point

your computer, and then click

NOTE: Calendar dates with available restore points appear in bold. If a calendar date has only one restore

point available, that restore point is automatically selected.

Under

Conform Restore Point Selection

All Programs→

, click the calendar date and restore point to which you want to restore

Accessories→

, click

System Tools

is selected, then click

, and then click

System Restore

The System Restore process collects necessary data, then restarts the computer.

Under

Restoration Complete

NOTE: After your computer has been restored to an earlier operating state, you can repeat the restoration process

and use a different restore point, or you can undo the restoration and return the computer to its original operating state.

(after the computer has restarted), click OK.

Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the most recent 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 process is complete.

Click

Start

, point to

Ensure that

Under

Undo my last restoration

Confirm Restoration Undo

The System Restore process collects necessary data, then restarts the computer.

All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools

is selected, then click

, click

, and then click

System Restore

Under

Undo Complete

Enabling or Disabling System Restore

(after the computer has restarted), click OK.

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

Click

Start

Under

Pick a Category

Click

System

, then click

Control Pane l

, click

Performance and Maintenance

70 Advanced Troubleshooting

Page 69

In the

System Properties

Ensure that

NOTE: To disable System Restore, check Turn off System Restore.

Turn off System Restore

window, click the

is unchecked.

System Restore

tab.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

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

Click

Start

, then click

Ty p e

hardware troubleshooter

Click

Hardware Troubleshooter

In the

Hardware Troubleshooter

click

Help and Support

in the

Search Results

list, click

field and click the arrow to start the search.

list.

I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer

, and

Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP

NOTICE: You must use Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1) or later when you reinstall Windows XP.

NOTICE: In order to use the migrating option to convert a RAID configuration without losing data, your hard drive

must initially be set up as a single drive RAID 0 array before the operating system is loaded onto the drive (see "Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility" on page 28 for instructions).

Before You Begin

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback (see "Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback" on page 68). If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see "Using Microsoft system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver.

Windows® XP System Restore" on page 69) to return your operating

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

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

To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:

•Dell

Operating System

Drivers and Utilities

NOTE: The

the CD to load any required drivers.

Drivers and Utilities

CD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer. Use

Reinstalling Windows XP

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

Advanced Troubleshooting 71

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

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

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

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

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

Booting From the Operating System CD

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

Insert the

Restart the computer.

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

Operating System

NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down for extended periods of time. To

avoid possible keyboard failure, press and release <F12> in even intervals until the Boot Device Menu appears.

CD. Click

Exit

Install Windows XP

message appears.

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

At the

Boot Device Menu

keyboard to highlight

When the

Press any key to boot from CD

, use the up- and down-arrow keys or press the appropriate number on the

Onboard or USB CD-ROM

, and then press <Enter>.

message appears, press any key.

Windows XP Setup

When the

Read the information on the

Windows XP Setup

screen appears, press <Enter> to select

Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement

To set up Windows now

screen, and press <F8> to

accept the license agreement.

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

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

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

to select the repair option, and remove the CD.

screen.

The

Windows XP Setup

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

devices. The computer automatically restarts multiple times.

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

computer.

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

the CD.

72 Advanced Troubleshooting

Page 71

When the click

Enter your name and organization (optional) in the

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition

name for your computer (or accept the name provided) and click

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional

Regional and Language Options

screen appears, select the settings for your location and

Personalize Your Software

, at the

What's your computer's name window, enter a

Computer Name and Administrator Password

screen, and click

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

If the

Modem Dialing Information

Enter the date, time, and time zone in the

If the

Networking Settings

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

screen appears, click

screen appears, enter the requested information and click

Date and Time Settings

Typical

and click

window, and click

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

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

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

CD.

When the

Click

Reinstall the appropriate drivers with the

Welcome to Microsoft

How will this computer connect to the Internet?

Ready to register with Microsoft?

Who will use this computer?

Finish

to complete the setup, and remove the CD.

screen appears, click

screen appears, select

screen appears, you can enter up to five users.

Drivers and Utilities

message appears, click

No, not at this time

and click

CD (see "Reinstalling Drivers" on

page 67).

Reinstall your virus protection software.

Reinstall your programs.

Skip

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

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

Advanced Troubleshooting 73

Page 72

74 Advanced Troubleshooting

Page 73

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

Recommended Tools

The procedures in this document may require one or more of the following tools:

• Small flat-blade screwdriver

• Phillips screwdriver

• Flash BIOS update (see the Dell support website at

support.dell.com

Preparing to Work 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: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, do not overload an electrical outlet, power

strip, or convenience receptacle. The total ampere rating of all products plugged into an electrical outlet, power strip, or other receptacle should not exceed 80 percent of the branch circuit rating.

)

CAUTION: Your computer is heavy and can be difficult to maneuver. Seek assistance before attempting to

lift, move, or tilt the computer and always lift correctly to avoid injury; avoid bending over while lifting.

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

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

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge and damage to internal components, ground yourself by using a

wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

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

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

Removing and Installing Parts 75

Page 74

NOTICE: When disconnecting a cable, pull on the cable’s connector or its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself.

Some cables have connectors with locking tabs; before disconnecting this type of cable, press inward on the locking tabs to release the connector. When connecting or disconnecting a cable, ensure that the connectors are correctly oriented and aligned to avoid damage to the connector and/or the connector’s pins.

Ensure that the work surface is level and protected to prevent either the surface or the computer from being scratched.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save any work in progress and exit all open programs before turning off your

computer.

Turn off the computer and all attached devices:

Click

Start

In the

Turn off computer

, then click

Turn Off Computer

window, click

Tur n off

The computer performs a shutdown of the operating system, and then turns off.

NOTE: Ensure that the computer is off and not in a power management mode. If you cannot shut down the

computer using the operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

Disconnect the computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.

NOTICE: When disconnecting a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from

the network port or device.

Disconnect all external cables from the computer.

Carefully, lift the rear of the computer and rotate the stabilizing feet into the closed position.

With the help of an assistant, carefully lay the computer down on a flat surface with the computer cover facing up.

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: To avoid electrostatic discharge and damage to internal components, ground yourself by using a wrist

grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Pull back on the cover release latch.

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

76 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 75

1 computer cover 2 cover release latch 3 cover hinge tabs

4 stabilizing feet (closed)

With the cover release latch pulled back, grip the sides of the cover, then pivot the top of the cover up and away from the computer.

Slide the cover forward and up to remove it from the hinge slots, then set it aside in a secure and protected location.

Removing and Installing Parts 77

Page 76

Inside View of Your Computer

1 CD/DVD drive bays (4) 2 floppy drive/media card

reader

4 card fan 5 front fan

3 hard drive bays (4)

78 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 77

System Board Components

181921 2022

Removing and Installing Parts 79

Page 78

1 white memory module connectors (DIMM_1-2)

support memory modules or memory module risers

2 black memory module connectors (DIMM_3-4)

support memory modules only when no memory riser cards are installed; otherwise these must be left empty

3 hard drive fan connector (FAN_HDD) 17 PCI card slot (SLOT6)

4 IDE drive connector (IDE) 18 PCI-Express x8 card slot (SLOT7)

5 front I/O panel connector (FRONTPANEL) 19 RTC reset jumper (RTCRST)

6 back LED connector 20 battery socket (BATTERY)

7 FlexBay connector (INT_USB) 21 password jumper (PASSWORD)

8 main power connector (POWER1) 22 power connector (POWER2)

9 SATA connectors (SATA0-5) 23 floppy drive (DSKT)

10 front USB connector (FRNT_USB) 24 card cage fan connector (FAN_CAGE)

11 front panel 1394 connector (FP1394) 25 processor fan connector (FAN2_CPU)

12 PCI-Express x1 card slot (SLOT1)

15 PCI-Express x16 card slot (SLOT4)

16 PCI card slot (SLOT5)

NOTICE: The FAN2_CPU connector is not

currently used on this system and is reserved for future use. Do not attach the primary CPU fan to the FAN2_CPU connector.

26 primary processor (CPU)

NOTE: This slot is not available in the dual-

graphics configuration

13 PCI-Express x16 card slot (SLOT2) 27 processor fan connector (FAN1_CPU)

14 PCI card slot (SLOT3)

NOTE: This slot is not available in the dual-

graphics configuration

80 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 79

Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board.

Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For additional information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 127.

DDR2 Memory Overview

• DDR2 memory modules should be installed in memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. See the label on the upper-right or upper-left corner of the module to determine the module’s capacity.

NOTE: Always install DDR2 memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.

The recommended memory configurations are:

– A pair of matched memory modules installed in DIMM connectors 1 and 2

pairs of matched memory size and speed

. If the DDR2

– A pair of matched memory modules installed in DIMM connectors 1 and 2 and another matched

pair installed in DIMM connectors 3 and 4

NOTICE: Do not install ECC memory modules.

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

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

Removing and Installing Parts 81

Page 80

A matched pair of modules in DIMM connectors 1

and 2 (white securing clips)

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 DIMM connectors 1 and 2 or DIMM connectors 3 and 4.

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

B matched pair of memory modules in DIMM

connectors 3 and 4 (black securing clips)

Addressing Memory Configurations

If you are using a 32-bit operating system such as Microsoft® Windows® XP, your computer will support a maximum of 2 GB of memory. If you are using a 64-bit operating system, your computer will support a maximum of 8 GB (2-GB DIMMs in each of the four slots) of memory.

Installing Memory

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

Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge and damage to internal components, ground yourself by using a wrist

grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 76).

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

82 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 81

1 memory connector closest to

processor

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

cutouts (2)

crossbar

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.

2 securing clips (2) 3 memory connector

memory module

notch

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

Removing and Installing Parts 83

Page 82

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 125).

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

computer.

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

When the message appears stating that memory size has changed, press <F1> to continue.

Log on to your computer.

Right-click the

Click the

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

My Computer

General

tab.

icon on your Windows desktop and click

Properties

Removing Memory

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

Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge and damage to internal components, ground yourself by using a wrist

grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

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.

84 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 83

Cards

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

Information Guide.

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

• Three PCI card slots

• Two PCI Express x16 card slots (can be used in a dual-graphics configuration)

• One PCI Express x8 card slot

• One PCI Express x1 card slot

NOTE: If a graphics card is installed in each of the PCI Express x16 card slots in the dual-graphics configuration,

the PCI Express x1 and one PCI card slot are not accessible for use.

1 PCI card 2 PCI Express x16 card 3 PCI Express x16 card slot

4 PCI Express x8 card 5 PCI Express x8 card slot 6 PCI Express x1 card

7 PCI Express x1 card slot

Removing and Installing Parts 85

Page 84

Removing PCI and PCI Express Cards

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge and damage to internal components, ground yourself by using a wrist

grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

NOTICE: If your computer came with a PCI graphics card installed, removal of the card is not necessary when

installing additional graphics cards; however, the card is required for troubleshooting purposes. If you remove the card, store it in a safe and secure location.

NOTICE: If you have the optional dual graphics card configuration, see "Removing a PCI Express Graphics Card

from a Dual Configuration" on page 91 to remove or replace a graphics card.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 76).

Disconnect any cables connected to the card.

Press down the tab on the top of the card retainer at the appropriate card slot and pivot the card retainer back through the chassis wall.

If present, press the tab on the card retention device that lays over the installed cards and lift it to gain full access to the card.

1 release tab 2 card retainer 3 alignment guide

4 fan bracket

86 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 85

Press the release tab (if present) on the system board connector as you grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease the card out of the connector.

NOTE: If the card is full-length, press the release tab on the end of the alignment guides on the fan bracket.

1 PCI Express x16 card 2 securing tab 3 PCI Express x16 card slot

Install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening. If you are replacing the card, see "Installing PCI and PCI Express Cards" on page 88.

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: Before rotating the card retainer back into place, ensure that the tops of all cards and filler brackets are

flush with the alignment bar and the notch in the top of each card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

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.

Rotate the card retainer back into its original position; push its tip so that its tab clicks into place.

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

into the computer.

If present, lower the card retention device that lays over the installed cards and snap it into place.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 125), reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Uninstall the driver for the card that you removed.

NOTE: If you removed a sound card or a network adapter, see "Network Adapter and Sound Card Settings" on

page 96.

Removing and Installing Parts 87

Page 86

Installing PCI and PCI Express Cards

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge and damage to internal components, ground yourself by using a wrist

grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

NOTICE: If your computer came with a PCI graphics card installed, removal of the card is not necessary when

installing additional graphics cards; however, the card is required for troubleshooting purposes. If you remove the card, store it in a safe and secure location.

NOTICE: If you have or are upgrading to the optional dual-graphics configuration, see "Installing a PCI Express

Graphics Card in a Dual Configuration" on page 93 to install a graphics card.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 76).

If present, press the tab on the card retention device that lays over the installed cards and rotate it upwards to gain full access to the card.

Press down the tab on the top of the card retainer at the appropriate card slot and pivot the card retainer back through the chassis wall.

1 release tab 2 card retainer 3 alignment guide

4 fan bracket

88 Removing and Installing Parts

Page 87

Remove the filler bracket or existing card (see "Removing PCI and PCI Express Cards" on page 86) to create a card-slot opening.

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.

Position the card so that it is aligned with the slot and the securing tab (if present) is aligned with the securing slot.

NOTE: If the card is full-length, insert the card guide into the alignment slot on the fan bracket.

1 PCI Express x16 card 2 securing tab 3 PCI Express x16 card slot

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.

Gently pull the securing tab (if present) and place the card in the connector. Press down firmly and ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.

Removing and Installing Parts 89

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1 card connector (seated) 2 card connector (not seated) 3 bracket properly aligned

within slot

4 bracket improperly aligned

outside of slot

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.

5 alignment bar 6 alignment guide

NOTICE: An incorrectly attached graphics power cable may result in degraded graphics performance.

Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.

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

NOTICE: Before rotating the card retainer back into place, ensure that the tops of all cards and filler brackets are

flush with the alignment bar and the notch in the top of each card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

Rotate the card retainer back into its original position; push its tip so that its tab clicks into place.

If present, lower the card retention device that lays over the installed cards and snap it into place.

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

into the computer.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 125), reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

90 Removing and Installing Parts

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

NOTE: If you installed a sound card or a network adapter, see "Network Adapter and Sound Card Settings" on

page 96.

Removing a PCI Express Graphics Card from a Dual Configuration

NOTE: This section regards dual configurations of PCI Express x16 graphics cards only. For removal of any other

type of PCI or PCI Express cards, see "Removing PCI and PCI Express Cards" on page 86.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 76).

If present, press the tab on the card retention device that lays over the installed cards and rotate it upwards to gain full access to the card.

Gently securing both graphics cards with one hand, remove the graphics card bridge (if present) with your other hand by pulling it up and away from the computer. Set it aside.

1 graphics card bridge 2 power connectors (2) 3 dual-PCI Express graphics

cards

Removing and Installing Parts 91

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Disconnect any cables connected to the card.

Press down the tab on the top of the card retainer at the appropriate card slot and pivot the card retainer back through the chassis wall.

1 release tab 2 card retainer 3 alignment guide

4 fan bracket

Press the release tab (if present) on the system board connector as you grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease the card out of the connector.

NOTE: If the card is full-length, press the release tab on the end of the alignment guides on the fan bracket.

92 Removing and Installing Parts

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1 PCI Express x16 card 2 securing tab 3 PCI Express x16 card slot

Install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening. If you are replacing the card, see "Installing a PCI

Express Graphics Card in a Dual Configuration" on page 93.

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.

NOTE: The graphics card bridge (not present in all dual-graphics configurations) is not necessary in a single

graphics card configuration.

NOTICE: Before rotating the card retainer back into place, ensure that the tops of all cards and filler brackets are

flush with the alignment bar and the notch in the top of each card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

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.

Rotate the card retainer back into its original position; push its tip so that its tab clicks into place.

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

into the computer.

If present, lower the card retention device that lays over the installed cards and snap it into place.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 125), reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

Installing a PCI Express Graphics Card in a Dual Configuration

NOTE: To upgrade to or downgrade from a dual-graphics configuration, you will need additional parts that can be

ordered from Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 145).

This section pertains to dual PCI Express graphics card configurations only. For installation of other types of PCI or PCI Express cards, see "Installing PCI and PCI Express Cards" on page 88.

Removing and Installing Parts 93

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The PCI Express x1 card slot is not available for use if a graphics card is installed in each of the PCI Express x16 card slots in a dual graphics card configuration. If you are upgrading from a single graphics card to a dual-graphics card configuration, you will need to remove any card installed in the PCI Express x1 card slot (see "System Board Components" on page 79 to locate the PCI Express x1 card slot). To remove a PCI Express card, see "Removing PCI and PCI Express Cards" on page 86.

NOTICE: For information about upgrading your system to use NVIDIA SLI (Scalable Link Interface) dual-graphics

technology, see the Dell website at support.dell.com.

To learn more about NVIDIA SLI (Scalable Link Interface) dual-graphics technology, see "Understanding Dual Graphics Technology" on page 44.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 76).

If present, press the tab on the card retention device that lays over the installed cards and rotate it upwards to gain full access to the card.

Press down the tab on the top of the card retainer at the appropriate card slot and pivot the card retainer back through the chassis wall.

1 release tab 2 card retainer 3 alignment guide

4 fan bracket

94 Removing and Installing Parts

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Remove the filler bracket or existing graphics card (see "Removing a PCI Express Graphics Card from a Dual Configuration" on page 91) to create a card-slot opening.

NOTE: If you are upgrading to a dual graphics card configuration and have a card installed in the PCI Express

x1 card slot, remove the card (see "Removing PCI and PCI Express Cards" on page 86).

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.

Position the card so that it is aligned with the slot and the securing tab (if present) is aligned with the securing slot.

NOTE: If the card is full-length, insert the card guide into the alignment slot on the fan bracket.

1 PCI Express x16 card 2 securing tab 3 PCI Express x16 card slot

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.

Gently pull the securing tab (if present) and place the card in the connector. Press down firmly and

ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.

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: An incorrectly attached graphics power cable may result in degraded graphics performance.

Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.

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

NOTICE: Before rotating the card retainer back into place, ensure that the tops of all cards and filler brackets are

flush with the alignment bar and the notch in the top of each card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

Rotate the card retainer back into its original position; push its tip so that its tab clicks into place.

Attach the graphics card bridge (if required for your dual-graphics configuration), pressing firmly so that it completely covers the connector tabs.

Removing and Installing Parts 95

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1 graphics card bridge (not

present on some dual graphics card configurations)

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

into the computer.

If present, lower the card retention device that lays over the installed cards and snap it into place.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 125), reconnect the

2 power connectors (2) 3 dual-PCI Express graphics

cards

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

Network Adapter and Sound Card Settings

If you installed a sound card:

Enter system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 132), select and then change the setting to

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 removed a sound card:

Enter system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 132), select and then change the setting to

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

96 Removing and Installing Parts

Off

Integrated Audio Controller

Page 95

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

Enter system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 132), select

Off

then change the setting to

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.

If you removed an add-in network connector:

Enter system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 132), select

then change the setting to

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

Integrated NIC Controller,

Integrated NIC Controller

Drives

Your computer supports:

• Six SATA devices (hard drives or optical drives)

• Two IDE devices (two hard drives or two optical drives)

• One floppy drive

• One Media Card Reader

NOTICE: When removing and replacing drives, be sure to leave the drive data and power cables connected to the

system board.

NOTE: The 5.25-inch Media Card Reader/floppy drive carrier is not interchangeable with the hard drive carrier.

and

, and

Removing and Installing Parts 97

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1 CD/DVD drive bays (4) 2 floppy drive/media card

reader

3 hard-drive bays (4)

About Serial ATA Drives

Your computer supports up to four serial ATA hard drives and two serial ATA optical drives. Serial ATA drives provide the following benefits by transferring data using serial technology and flexible cables that are thinner and longer than IDE cables:

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

• Compact cable connectors save space on the system board and on the hard drive, allowing for more efficient utilization of space inside the chassis.

General Drive Installation Guidelines

SATA hard drives should be connected to connectors labeled "HDD" on the system board. Non-hard drive SATA devices should be attached to the connectors labeled SATA, with the exception of a 5th SATA hard drive installed in a 5.25-inch drive bay, which much be connected to the SATA0 connector. IDE CD/DVD drives should be connected to the connectors labeled "IDE."

98 Removing and Installing Parts

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When connecting a SATA cable, hold the cable by the connector at each end and press firmly into the connector. When disconnecting a SATA cable, hold the cable by the connector at each end and pull until the connector detaches.

1 SATA data cable 2 SATA data connector (on the

system board)

3 SATA drive

When you connect two IDE devices to a single IDE data cable and configure the devices for the cable select setting, the device attached to the last connector on the data cable is primary or the boot device, and the device attached to the middle connector on the data cable is the secondary device. See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information on configuring devices for the cable select setting.

To connect an IDE data cable, align the tab on one connector with the notch on the other. When disconnecting an IDE data cable, grasp the colored pull-tab and pull until the connector detaches.

Hard Drive

Removing a 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

removing the cover.

NOTICE: If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data that you want to keep, back up your files before you

begin this procedure.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 76).

Disconnect the power cable and the data cable from the hard drive.

Removing and Installing Parts 99

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1 2

1 power cable 2 data cable

Press the blue tabs on each side of the hard-drive bracket toward each other and slide the drive up and out of the hard-drive bay.

100 Removing and Installing Parts

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1 blue tabs (2) 2 hard drive 3 hard drive bay

Ensure that all connectors are properly cabled and firmly seated.

Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 125).

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

computer.

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

Installing a Hard Drive

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

Information Guide.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 75.

Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 76).

Remove the existing hard drive, if applicable (see "Removing a Hard Drive" on page 99).

NOTE: If a hard-drive bracket is installed inside of the hard-drive bay, remove the bracket before you install

the new hard drive.

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Prepare the new hard drive for installation and check the documentation for the hard drive to verify that the drive is configured for your computer.

NOTE: If hard drive you are installing does not have the hard drive bracket attached, use your original hard

drive bracket; snap the bracket onto the new drive.

1 hard drive 2 hard drive bracket

Verify that the hard-drive bay is empty and unobstructed.

Slide the hard drive into the hard-drive bay until it clicks securely into place.

102 Removing and Installing Parts

Dell XPS 700 User Manual

Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front and Back View of the Computer

Front View

Front I/O Connectors

Back View

Back I/O Connectors

Attaching the Computer Stand

Connecting Monitors

Connecting a Monitor (Without an Adapter)

Connecting a Monitor (With an Adapter)

Connecting a Monitor in a Dual Graphics Card Configuration

Connecting Two or More Monitors

Connecting a TV

Changing the Display Settings to Support Two or More Monitors

About Your RAID Configuration

RAID Level 0 Configuration

RAID Level 1 Configuration

Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID

Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility

Using Nvidia MediaShield

Playing CDs and DVDs

Playing a CD or DVD

Adjusting the Volume

Adjusting the Picture

Copying CDs and DVDs

How to Copy a CD or DVD

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Helpful Tips

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Network Setup Wizard

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Power Management

Overview

Standby Mode

Hibernate Mode

Power Options Properties

Optimizing Performance

Understanding Hyper-Threading

Understanding PCI Express Cards

Understanding Dual Graphics Technology

Understanding CPU Over-Clocking

Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tips

Battery Problems

Drive Problems

CD and DVD drive problems

Hard drive problems

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Error Messages

IEEE 1394 Device 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

The screen is blank

The screen is difficult to read

3-D image quality is poor

Advanced Troubleshooting

Diagnostic Lights

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

Drivers

What Is a Driver?