Dell XPS 400

Owners Manual
Service Tag
CD or DVD eject button

cover latch release

CD or DVD activity light

FlexBays (2) for optional
floppy drive or optional
Media Card Reader
microphone connector
headphone connector
diagnostic lights
hard-drive activity light
power button
USB 2.0 connectors (2)

power connector

sound-card connectors (5)

network adapter

USB 2.0 connectors (5)

card slots for

PCI Express x1 (1), PCI Express x16 (1),
PCI Express x4 (1), PCI (3)

Model DCTA

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

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
If you purchased a Dell n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft Windows
operating systems are not applicable.

____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Dell XPS, Inspiron, Dimension, Precision, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault,
PowerApp, DellNet, and PowerConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Pentium, and Intel SpeedStep are registered trademarks of Intel
Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model DCTA

August 2005

P/N WD741

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Rev. A00

Contents
Finding Information

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up a Printer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Printer Cable . . . . . . .
Connecting a USB Printer.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

13
14

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16

Connecting to the Internet .

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

Playing CDs and DVDs .

Adjusting the Volume .

Adjusting the Picture .
Copying CDs and DVDs.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

17
18

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

18

How to Copy a CD or DVD. .

Using Blank CDs and DVDs .
Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

18
19
19

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

21

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Connecting Two Monitors

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors . .

Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and
One Monitor With a DVI Connector. . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changing the Display Settings . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

22

. . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . .

22
23
23

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

24

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

24
24

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

25

Setting Up a Home and Office Network .

Connecting to a Network Adapter
Network Setup Wizard . . . . . .
Power Management

Standby Mode . . . . . .
Hibernate Mode . . . . . .
Power Options Properties
IEEE 1394

13

. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

25
25
26

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

27

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Contents

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Hyper-Threading .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

28

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

28

About Your RAID Configuration

RAID Level 0 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

RAID Level 1 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Configuring Your Computer for RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Configuring for RAID Using the Intel RAID Option ROM Utility .
Configuring for RAID Using the Intel Application Accelerator .

. . . . .

. . . . .

28
29
30
31
33

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

37

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

37

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38
39

. . . . .
. . . . .
. . . . .

Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips .
Battery Problems .
Drive Problems .

CD and DVD drive problems

Hard drive problems . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems .

Error Messages

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

39

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

41

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

42

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

42

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

43

Media Card Reader Problems

Keyboard Problems

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A program stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A program crashes repeatedly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system .
A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . .

43
43
43
43
44
44
44

Memory Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

45

Mouse Problems .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

45

Network Problems .
Power Problems

. . . .
. . . .
. . . .
. . . .
. . . .
. . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

46

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

47

Printer Problems .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

48

Scanner Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

48

Contents

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Sound and Speaker Problems .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

No sound from speakers . .

No sound from headphones
Video and Monitor Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

49
50

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

50

If the screen is blank . . . . . .

If the screen is difficult to read .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

50
51

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

53

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

56

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

56

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

57

Troubleshooting Tools
Diagnostic Lights.
Dell Diagnostics

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

Drivers

What Is a Driver? . .
Identifying Drivers .
Reinstalling Drivers .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

57
58
58

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

59

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

59

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore .

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec . . . . . .

49

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

60
61

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

63

Removing and Installing Parts

Before You Begin .

Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . .
Before Working Inside Your Computer .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

63
63
64

Front View of the Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

65

Back View of the Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

67

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the Computer Cover .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

68

Inside View of Your Computer .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

70

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

71

System Board Components.

Contents

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Memory .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

72

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

72
74
76

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

76

Memory Overview
Installing Memory .
Removing Memory
Cards

PCI Cards . . . . .
PCI Express Cards
Drive Panels

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

77
81

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

90

Removing the Drive Panel . . . .

Removing the Drive-Panel Insert .
Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert .
Replacing the Drive Panel . . . .
Drives .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

90
91
92
93

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

93

General Installation Guidelines .

Hard Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

94

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

94

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

95
96
97

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

99

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

99
101

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

101

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

102
104

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

105

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

106
107

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

109

Floppy Drive

Removing a Floppy Drive

Installing a Floppy Drive
Media Card Reader

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing a Media Card Reader

Installing a Media Card Reader .
CD/DVD Drive.

Removing a CD/DVD Drive

Installing a CD/DVD Drive .

Replacing the Battery .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

109

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

110

Replacing the Computer Cover

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing a Hard Drive . . .

Installing a Hard Drive . . .
Adding a Second Hard Drive

Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Contents

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Appendix
Specifications

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

111

System Setup .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

115

Overview . . . . . . .
Entering System Setup
System Setup Options .
Boot Sequence . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Clearing Forgotten Passwords.

115
116
118
121

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

123

Clearing CMOS Settings .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

124

Cleaning Your Computer .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

124

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

124
125
125
125

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor

Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . .
CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

125

. . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . .

126
126

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

126

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals

Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals. .
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

Class A . . . . . . . . . . . .
Class B . . . . . . . . . . . .
FCC Identification Information

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

127
127
128

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

128

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

147

Contacting Dell .

Index .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Contents

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Contents

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Finding Information
What Are You Looking For?

Find It Here

Dell Product Information Guide

Warranty information
Terms and conditions (U.S. only)
Safety instructions
Regulatory information
Ergonomics information
End User License Agreement

NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at

support.dell.com.
How to set up my computer

Setup Diagram

Finding Information

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

What Are You Looking For?

Find It Here

Service Tag and Express Service Code

Microsoft Windows License Label

Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License

These labels are located on your computer.
Use the Service Tag to
identify your
computer when you
use support.dell.com
or contact technical
support.
Enter the Express
Service Code to direct your call when contacting
technical support. The Express Service Code is not
available in all countries.

10

Finding Information

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

What Are You Looking For?

Find It Here

Solutions Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles

from technicians, online courses, frequently asked
questions
Community Online discussion with other Dell
customers
Upgrades Upgrade information for components, such
as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system
Customer Care Contact information, service call and
order status, warranty, and repair information
Service and support Service call status and support
history, service contract, online discussions with
technical support
Reference Computer documentation, details on my
computer configuration, product specifications, and
white papers
Downloads Certified drivers, patches, and software
updates
Desktop System Software (DSS) If you reinstall the
operating system for your computer, you should also
reinstall the DSS utility. DSS provides critical updates
for your operating system and support for Dell
3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel Pentium M
processors, optical drives, and USB devices. DSS is
necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer.
The software automatically detects your computer and
operating system and installs the updates appropriate
for your configuration.

Dell Support Website support.dell.com

NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support
site.
NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers
can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website
at premier.support.dell.com. The website may not be
available in all regions.

To download Desktop System Software:

1 Go to support.dell.com and click Downloads.
2 Enter your Service Tag or product model.
3 In the Download Category drop-down menu, click All.
4 Select the operating system and operating system
language for your computer, and click Submit.
5 Under Select a Device, scroll to System and
Configuration Utilities, and click Dell Desktop System
Software.

Finding Information

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

11

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

What Are You Looking For?

Find It Here

How to use Windows XP

Documentation for my computer
Documentation for devices (such as a modem)

Windows Help and Support Center

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and
click the arrow icon.
3 Click the topic that describes your problem.
4 Follow the instructions on the screen.

12

Finding Information

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up a Printer
NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer.
See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to:

Obtain and install updated drivers

Connect the printer to the computer

Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge

Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

13

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Connecting a USB Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1 Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.
2 Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.
3 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The
USB connectors fit only one way.
USB connector on computer

USB printer cable

USB connector
on printer

Connecting to the Internet

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

14

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

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

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

NOTE: If you use a dial-up connection, you need an add-in PCI modem expansion card.
If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your
computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are
using a DSL or cable modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an AOL or MSN connection:
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2 Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Microsoft Windows desktop.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an
Internet connection with a different ISP:
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2 Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer.
The New Connection Wizard appears.
3 Click Connect to the Internet.
4 In the next window, click the appropriate option:

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

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

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

5 Click Next.
If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the
instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.
6 Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then
click Next.
7 Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet
Problems" on page 39. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the
past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try
connecting again later.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

15

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Playing CDs and DVDs

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

NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs.
1 Press the eject button on the front of the drive.
2 Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.

3 Press the eject button or gently push in the tray.

To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that
came with your computer.
NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.
A CD player includes the following basic buttons:
Play
Move backward within the current track
Pause
Move forward within the current track
Stop
Go to the previous track

16

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Eject
Go to the next track

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:

Stop
Restart the current chapter
Play
Fast forward
Pause
Fast reverse
Advance a single frame while in pause mode
Go to the next title or chapter
Continuously play the current title or chapter
Go to the previous title or chapter
Eject

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

Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories Entertainment, and then click
Volume Control.
2 In the Volume Control window, click and drag the bar in the Volume Control column and
slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.
For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

17

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes.
3 Under Pick a task..., click Change the screen resolution.
4 In the Display Properties window, click and drag the bar in Screen resolution to change the
setting to 800 by 600 pixels.
5 Click the drop-down menu under Color quality, and then click Medium (16 bit).
6 Click OK.

Copying CDs and DVDs

NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs or DVDs.
This section applies only to computers that have a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW, or
DVD/CD-RW combo drive.
NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
The following instructions show how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use
Sonic RecordNow! for other purposes, including creating CDs from audio files on your computer
and creating MP3 CDs. For instructions, see the Sonic RecordNow! documentation that came with
your computer. Open Sonic RecordNow!, click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of
the window, and then click the help or tutorial option.

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: If you have a DVD/CD-RW combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for
available software patches at the Sonic website at www.sonic.com.
Currently, five DVD-writable disc formats are available: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW,
and DVD-RAM. The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell computers can write to DVD+R,
DVD+RW, DVD-R and DVD-RW media. However, DVD-writable drives do not write to, and may
not read, DVD-RAM media. In addition, commercially available DVD players used in home theater
systems may not read all five formats.
NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic
RecordNow!.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Sonic RecordNow!, and then click
RecordNow!
2 Click either the audio tab or the data tab, depending on the kind of CD or DVD you want to
copy.
3 Click Exact Copy.
18

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

4 To copy the CD or DVD:

If you have one optical drive, ensure that the settings are correct and click Copy. The
computer reads your source CD or DVD disc and copies it to a temporary folder on your
computer hard drive.
When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD disc into the optical drive and click OK.

If you have two optical drives, select the drive into which you have inserted your source
CD or DVD disc and click Copy. The computer copies the data on the CD or DVD to the
blank CD or DVD.

After you finish copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you created
automatically ejects.

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R disc, you
cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank
CD-RWs to write to CD or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.
Your DVD-writable drive can write to six different types of recording mediaCD-Rs, CD-RWs
(including high-speed CD-RWs), DVD+/-Rs, and DVD+/-RWs. Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to
permanently store large amounts of information; however, you may not be able to write to the 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.

Helpful Tips

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

You must use CD-R discs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos.
CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos.

You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic RecordNow!.

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

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

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

See the Sonic support website at support.sonic.com for additional information.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

19

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Use the Media Card Reader to transfer data directly to your computer.
The Media Card Reader supports the following memory types:

20

xD-Picture Card

SmartMedia (SMC)

CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II)

MicroDrive Card

SecureDigital Card (SD)

MultiMediaCard (MMC)

Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

For information on installing a Media Card Reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on
page 104.

xD-Picture Card
and SmartMedia (SMC)

Memory Stick
(MS/MS Pro)

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

SecureDigital Card (SD)/

MultiMediaCard (MMC)

To use the Media Card Reader:

1 Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion.
2 Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector.
If you encounter resistance, do not force the media or card. Check the card orientation and
try again.

Connecting Two Monitors

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you are connecting two monitors that have VGA connectors, you must have the optional DVI
adapter. If you are connecting two flat-panel monitors, at least one of them must have a VGA connector.
If you are connecting a television, you may connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the
television.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

21

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 Connect one of the monitors to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.
3 Connect the other monitor to the optional DVI adapter and connect the DVI adapter to the
DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.
optional DVI adapter

DVI (white) connector

TV-OUT connector
VGA (blue) connector

Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the
computer.
3 Connect the DVI connector on the other monitor to the DVI (white) connector on the back
of the computer.

22

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Connecting a TV
NOTE: To connect a TV to your computer, you must purchase an S-video cable, which is available at
most consumer electronics stores. An S-video cable is not included with your computer.

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

2 Connect one end of the S-video cable to the TV-OUT connector on the back of the computer.
3 Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV.
4 Connect the VGA or DVI monitor.

Changing the Display Settings

1 After you connect the monitor(s) or TV, turn on the computer.
The Microsoft Windows desktop displays on the primary monitor.
2 Enable clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings.

In clone mode, both monitors display the same image.

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

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

23

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter
NOTICE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the computer. Do not plug the
network cable into the modem connector on the computer. Do not plug a network cable into a telephone
wall jack.
1 Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.
Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.
2 Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device.
network adapter
connector

network device

network adapter connector on computer

network cable

Network Setup Wizard

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you
through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a
home or small office.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories Communications, and then
click Network Setup Wizard.
2 On the welcome screen, click Next.
3 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 Service Pack.

4 Complete the checklist and required preparations.

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

24

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Power Management
The Microsoft Windows XP power management features can reduce the amount of electricity
your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can reduce power to just the monitor
or the hard drive, or you can use standby mode or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire
computer. When the computer exits from a power conservation mode, the Windows desktop is
restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode.
NOTE: Windows XP Professional includes security and networking features not available in
Windows XP Home Edition. When a Windows XP Professional computer is connected to a network,
different options related to security and networking appear in certain windows.

Standby Mode
Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out.
When the computer exits from standby mode, it returns to the operating state it was in before it
entered standby mode.
To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.
To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click the Start button, click
Turn Off Computer, and then click Stand by.
To exit from standby mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.
NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data.

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 before it entered hibernate mode.
To activate hibernate mode:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.
4 Define your hibernate settings on the Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab, and Hibernate tab.
To exit from hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit
from hibernate mode. Pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the
computer out of hibernation, because the keyboard and the mouse do not function when the
computer is in hibernate mode.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

25

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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 computers hard drive becomes corrupted,
Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.

Power Options Properties

Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the Power
Options Properties window. To access the Power Options Properties window:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.
4 Define your power settings on the Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab, and Hibernate tab.
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 or hibernate mode, turning off the monitor, and
turning off the hard drive.
The Power schemes drop-down menu displays the following schemes:

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

Home/Office Desk If you use your computer as a home or office computer and you require
minimal power conservation.

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

Minimal Power Management If you want your computer to run with minimal power
conservation.

Max Battery 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 timeout 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.
NOTICE: If you set the hard drive (hard disk) to time-out before the monitor does, your computer may
appear to be locked up. To recover, press any key on the keyboard or click the mouse. To avoid this
problem, always set the monitor to time-out before the hard drive.

26

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

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
you defined on the Power Schemes tab, click the Enable hibernate support check box on the
Hibernate tab.
For more information on power management options:
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 In the Help and Support window, click Performance and maintenance.
3 In the Performance and maintenance window, click Conserving power on your computer.

IEEE 1394
IEEE 1394 is a digital interface that can move large amounts of data between computers and
peripheral devices. IEEE 1394 is ideal for use with multimedia devices because it speeds the
transfer of data and large files, which enables a computer to connect directly to devices such as
digital video cameras.
NOTE: The connector can accept 4-pin IEEE 1394 devices with the use of an adapter.
Your computer may have an optional front IEEE 1394 connector (see "Front View of the
Computer" on page 65). This connector is only available if you purchased an add-in card that uses
IEEE 1394. To purchase a card, contact Dell.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

27

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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 Windows XP Service Pack 1
(SP1) or later operating system because Windows XP is optimized to take advantage of
Hyper-Threading technology. While many programs can benefit from Hyper-Threading, some
programs have not been optimized for Hyper-Threading and may require an update from the
software manufacturer. Contact the software manufacturer for updates and information about
using Hyper-Threading with your software.
To determine if your computer is using Hyper-Threading technology:
1 Click the Start button, right-click My Computer, and then click Properties.
2 Click Hardware and click Device Manager.
3 In the Device Manager window, click the plus (+) sign next to Processors. If Hyper-Threading
is enabled, the processor is listed twice.
You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. For more information on
accessing system setup, see page 116. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the
Knowledge Base on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

About Your RAID Configuration

This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration that you might have selected when
you purchased your computer. Although several RAID configurations are available, Dell offers
either a RAID level 0 configuration or a RAID level 1 configuration. A RAID level 0
configuration is recommended for high-performance gaming, and a RAID level 1 configuration
is recommended for the data integrity requirements of digital photography and audio.
The Intel RAID controller on your computer can only create a RAID level 0 configuration
using two or three physical drives. If a third drive is present, then that drive can be made part of
a RAID level 0 configuration using the Intel RAID configuration program, or it can be used as a
spare drive in a RAID level 1 configuration (see "Creating a Spare Hard Drive" on page 36). The
drives should be the same size in order to ensure that the larger drive does not contain
unallocated (and therefore unusable) space.
NOTE: RAID levels do not represent a hierarchy. A RAID level 1 configuration is not inherently better or
worse than a RAID level 0 configuration.

RAID Level 0 Configuration

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

28

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

serial ATA RAID

configured for
RAID level 0

segment 1

segment 2

segment 3

segment 4

segment 5

segment 6

hard drive 1

hard drive 2

Another advantage of a RAID level 0 configuration is that it utilizes the full capacities of the
drives. For example, if you have two 120-GB drives installed, you have 240 GB on which to store
data.
NOTICE: Because RAID level 0 configurations provide no data redundancy, if one drive fails, then the
data on the other drive is also inaccessible. Therefore, ensure that you perform regular backups when
you use a RAID level 0 configuration.

RAID Level 1 Configuration

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

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

29

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

serial ATA RAID

configured for
RAID level 1

segment 1

segment 1 duplicated

segment 2

segment 2 duplicated

segment 3

segment 3 duplicated

segment 4

segment 4 duplicated

segment 5

segment 5 duplicated

segment 6

segment 6 duplicated

hard drive 1

hard drive 2

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

Configuring Your Computer for RAID

At some point you may want to configure your computer for RAID if you did not select a RAID
configuration when you purchased your computer. You must have at least two hard drives
installed in your computer to set up a RAID configuration. For instructions on how to install a
hard drive, see page 94.
You can use one of two methods to configure RAID hard drive volumes. One method uses the
Intel RAID Option ROM utility and is performed before you install the operating system onto
the hard drive. The second method uses the Intel Matrix Storage Manager, or Intel Matrix
Storage Console, and this method is performed after you have installed the operating system
and the Intel Matrix Storage Console. Both methods require that you set your computer to
RAID-enabled mode before starting any of the RAID configuration procedures in this
document.
Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode

1 Enter system setup (see page 115).

2 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Drives, and press <Enter>.
3 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight SATA Operation, and press <Enter>.

30

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

4 Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight RAID On, press <Enter>, and then
press <Esc>.
NOTE: For more information about RAID options, see "System Setup Options" on page 118.
5 Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight Save/Exit, and press <Enter> to exit system
setup and resume the boot process.

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel RAID Option ROM Utility
NOTE: Although any size drives may be used to create a RAID configuration using the Intel RAID Option
ROM utility, ideally the drives should be of equal size. In a RAID level 0 configuration, the size of the
configuration will be the size of the smallest drive multiplied by the number (two) of drives in the
configuration. In a RAID level 1 configuration, the size of the configuration will be the smaller of the two
drives used.

Creating a RAID Level 0 Configuration

NOTICE: You will lose any data on your hard drives when you create a RAID configuration using the
following procedure. Back up data you want to keep before continuing.

NOTE: Use the following procedure only if you are reinstalling your operating system. Do not use the
following procedure to migrate an existing storage configuration to RAID level 0 configuration.
1 Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 30).
2 Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.
3 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Create RAID Volume, and press <Enter>.
4 Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default, and press <Enter>.
5 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select RAID0(Stripe), and press <Enter>.
6 If there are more than two hard drives available, press the up- and down-arrow keys and
spacebar to select the two or three drives you want to use to make up your configuration, and
then press <Enter>.
NOTE: Select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to store on the RAID volume. If
you do not know the average file size, choose 128 KB as your strip size.
7 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to change the strip size, and press <Enter>.
8 Select the desired capacity for the volume, and press <Enter>. The default value is the
maximum available size.
9 Press <Enter> to create the volume.
10 Press <y> to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.
11 Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main Intel RAID Option
ROM utility screen.
12 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select Exit, and press <Enter>.
13 Install the operating system (see "Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 60).
Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

31

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Creating a RAID Level 1 Configuration

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

2 Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.
3 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Create RAID Volume, and press <Enter>.
4 Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default, and press <Enter>.
5 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select RAID1(Mirror), and press <Enter>.
6 If there are more than two hard drives available, press the up- and down-arrow keys and
spacebar to select the two drives you want to use to make up your volume, and then press
<Enter>.
7 Select the desired capacity for the volume, and press <Enter>. The default value is the
maximum available size.
8 Press <Enter> to create the volume.
9 Press <y> to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.
10 Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main Intel RAID Option
ROM utility screen.
11 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select Exit, and press <Enter>.
12 Install the operating system (see "Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 60).
Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.
NOTE: If your computer currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume in the Intel RAID Option
ROM utility, your computer will become unbootable.
1 Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.
2 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Delete RAID Volume, and press <Enter>.
3 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the RAID volume you want to delete, and press
<Delete>.
4 Press <y> to confirm the deletion of the RAID volume.
5 Press <Esc> to exit the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.

32

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Configuring for RAID Using the Intel Application Accelerator

If you already have one hard drive with the operating system installed on it, and you want to add
a second hard drive and reconfigure both drives into a RAID volume without losing the existing
operating system and any data, you need to use the migrating option (see "Migrating to a RAID
Level 0 Configuration" on page 34 or "Migrating to a RAID Level 1 Configuration" on page 35).
Create a RAID level 0 volume or RAID level 1 volume only when:

You are adding two new drives to an existing single-drive computer (and the operating system
is on the single drive), and you want to configure the two new drives into a RAID volume.

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

Creating a RAID Level 0 Configuration

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.
1 Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 30).
2 Click Start and point to Programs Intel(R) Application Accelerator Intel Matrix
Storage Manager to launch the Intel Storage Utility.
NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled
mode (see page 30).

3 On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume to launch the Create RAID Volume
Wizard, and then click Next.
4 On the Select Volume Location screen, click the first hard drive you want to include in your
RAID level 0 volume, and then click the right arrow.
5 Click a second hard drive. To add a third hard drive in your RAID level 0 volume, click the
right arrow and click on the third drive until three drives appear in the Selected window, and
then click Next.
6 In the Specify Volume Size window, click the Volume Size desired, and then click Next.
7 Click Finish to create the volume, or click Back to make changes.
Creating a RAID Level 1 Configuration

NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost.
1 Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 30).
2 Click the Start button and point to Programs Intel(R) Application Accelerator Intel
Matrix Storage Manager to launch the Intel Storage Utility.
NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled
mode (see page 30).

3 On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume to launch the Create RAID Volume
Wizard.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

33

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

4 Click Next at the first screen.

5 Confirm the volume name, select RAID 1 as the RAID level, and then click Next to continue.
6 On the Select Volume Location screen, click the first hard drive you want to use to create
your RAID level 0 volume, and then click the right arrow. Click a second hard drive until two
drives appear in the Selected window, and then click Next.
7 In the Specify Volume Size window, select the Volume Size desired and click Next.
8 Click Finish to create the volume, or click Back to make changes.
9 Follow Microsoft Windows procedures for creating a partition on the new RAID volume.
Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTE: While this procedure deletes the RAID 1 volume, it also splits the RAID 1 volume into two nonRAID hard drives with a partition, and leaves any existing data files intact. Deleting a RAID 0 volume,
however, destroys all data on the volume.

1 Click the Start button and point to Programs Intel(R) Application Accelerator Intel
Matrix Storage Manager to launch the Intel Storage Utility.
2 Right-click the Volume icon of the RAID volume you want to delete, and select Delete Volume.
3 On the Delete RAID Volume Wizard screen, click Next.
4 Highlight the RAID volume you want to delete in the Available box, click the right-arrow
button to move the highlighted RAID volume into the Selected box, and then click Next.
5 Click Finish to delete the volume.
Migrating to a RAID Level 0 Configuration

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

2 Click the Start button and point to All Programs Intel(R) Application Accelerator Intel
Matrix Storage Manager to launch the Intel Storage Utility.
NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled
mode (see page 30).
3 On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard Drive to launch the
Migration Wizard.
4 Click Next on the Migration Wizard screen.
5 Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default.
6 From the drop-down box, select RAID 0 as the RAID level.
NOTE: Select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to store on the RAID volume. If
you do not know the average file size, choose 128 KB as your strip size.

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

34

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

NOTE: Select the hard drive that you want to use as your source hard drive (it should be the hard drive
containing the data or operating system files that you want to keep on the RAID volume).

8 On the Select Source Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive from which you want to
migrate, and click Next.
9 On the Select Member Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive(s) to select the
member drive(s) to span the stripe array, and click Next.
10 On the Specify Volume Size screen, select the Volume Size you want, and click Next.
NOTE: In the following step, you will lose all data contained on the member drive.
11 Click Finish to start migrating, or click Back to make changes. You can use your computer
normally during the migration process.
Migrating to a RAID Level 1 Configuration

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

2 Click the Start button and point to All Programs Intel(R) Application Accelerator Intel
Matrix Storage Manager to launch the Intel Storage Utility.
NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled
mode (see page 30).
3 On the Actions menu, click Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard Drive to launch the
Migration Wizard.
4 Click Next on the first Migration Wizard screen.
5 Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default.
6 From the drop-down box, select RAID 1 as the RAID level.
NOTE: Select the hard drive that you want to use as your source hard drive (it should be the hard drive
containing the data or operating system files that you want to keep on the RAID volume).

7 On the Select Source Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive from which you want to
migrate, and click Next.
8 On the Select Member Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive to select the member
drive that you want to act as the mirror in the configuration, and click Next.
9 On the Specify Volume Size screen, select the volume size you want, and click Next.
NOTE: In the following step, you will lose all data contained on the member drive.
10 Click Finish to start migrating, or click Back to make changes. You can use your computer
normally during migration process.

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

35

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Creating a Spare Hard Drive

A spare hard drive may be created with a RAID level 1 configuration. The spare hard drive will
not be recognized by the operating system, but you will be able to see the spare drive from
within Disk Manager or the Intel RAID Option ROM utility. When a member of the RAID
level 1 configuration is broken, the computer automatically rebuilds the mirror configuration
using the spare hard drive as the broken members replacement.
To Mark a Drive as a Spare Hard Drive:
1 Click the Start button and point to Programs Intel(R) Application Accelerator Intel
Matrix Storage Manager to launch the Intel Storage Utility.
2 Right-click the hard drive you want to mark as a spare hard drive.
3 Click Mark as Spare.
To Remove Spare Marking From a Spare Hard Drive:
1 Right-click the spare hard drive icon.
2 Click Reset Hard Drive to Non-RAID
Rebuilding a Degraded RAID Level 1 Configuration

If your computer does not have a spare hard drive, and the computer has reported a degraded
RAID level 1 volume, you can manually rebuild the computers redundancy mirror to a new hard
drive by performing the following steps:
1 Click the Start button and point to Programs Intel(R) Application Accelerator Intel
Matrix Storage Manager to launch the Intel Storage Utility.
2 Right-click the available hard drive to which you want to rebuild the RAID level 1 volume,
and click Rebuild to this Disk.
You can use your computer while the computer is rebuilding the RAID level 1 volume.

36

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips
Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer:

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

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

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

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

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

Battery Problems
CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the
battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used
batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
R E P L A C E T H E B A T T E R Y If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on
the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see page 109).
If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 128).

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

37

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Drive Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
E N S U R E T H A T M I C R O S O F T W I N D O W S R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E Click the Start button and
click My Computer. If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive, is not listed, perform a full scan with your
antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from
recognizing the drive.
TE S T T H E D R I V E
Insert another floppy, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.
Insert a bootable floppy and restart the computer.
C L E A N T H E D R I V E O R D I S K See page 124.
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R See page 60.
R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S See page 56.

CD and DVD drive problems

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

NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all
DVD drives.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL
Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.
Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.
C H E C K T H E S P E A K E R S A N D S U B W O O F E R See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 49.

38

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive

C L O S E O T H E R P R O G R A M S The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when
writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the
CD/DVD-RW.
TU R N O F F S T A N D B Y M O D E I N W I N D O W S B E F O R E W R I T I N G T O A C D / D V D - R W D I S C Search for
the keyword standby in Windows Help.

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK
1 Click the Start button and click My Computer.
2 Right-click Local Disk C:.
3 Click Properties.
4 Click the Tools tab.
5 Under Error-checking, click Check Now.
6 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors.
7 Click Start.

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.

C H E C K T H E M I C R O S O F T O U T L O O K E X P R E S S S E C U R I T Y S E T T I N G S If you cannot open your

e-mail attachments:
1 In Outlook Express, click Tools, click Options, and then click Security.
2 Click Do not allow attachments to remove the checkmark.

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

39

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION

CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK
CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK
USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE
Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem. (The jack has either a green label
or a connector-shaped icon next to it.)
Ensure that you feel a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.
Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.
If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge
protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the
telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
R U N T H E M O D E M H E L P E R D I A G N O S T I C S Click the Start button, point to All Programs, and then
click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems.
(Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E M O D E M I S C O M M U N I C A T I N G W I T H W I N D O W S
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Printers and Other Hardware.
3 Click Phone and Modem Options.
4 Click the Modems tab.
5 Click the COM port for your modem.
6 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is
communicating with Windows.
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
E N S U R E T H A T Y O U A R E C O N N E C T E D T O T H E I N T E R N E T Ensure that you have subscribed to an
Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a
checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact
your Internet service provider.

40

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Error Messages
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that
was running when the message appeared.
A F I L E N A M E C A N N O T C O N T A I N A N Y O F T H E F O L L O W I N G C H A R A C T E R S : \ / : * ? < > | Do not
use these characters in filenames.
A R E Q U I R E D . D L L F I L E W A S N O T F O U N D The program that you are trying to open is missing an
essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program:
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Add or Remove Programs.
2 Select the program you want to remove.
3 Click the Change or Remove Program icon.
4 See the program documentation for installation instructions.
drive letter : \ I S N O T A C C E S S I B L E . T H E D E V I C E I S N O T R E A D Y The drive cannot read the disk.
Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
I N S E R T B O O T A B L E M E D I A Insert a bootable floppy or CD.
N O N - S YS T E M D I S K E R R O R Remove the floppy from the drive and restart your computer.
N O T E N O U G H M E M O R Y O R R E S O U R C E S . C L O S E S O M E P R O G R A M S A N D T R Y A G A I N Close all
windows and open the program that you want to use. In some cases, you might have to restart your
computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.
O P E R A T I N G S YS T E M N O T F O U N D Contact Dell (see page 128).

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

41

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Media Card Reader Problems

N O D R I V E L E T T E R I S A S S I G N E D When Microsoft Windows XP detects the Media Card Reader, the
device is automatically assigned a drive letter as the next logical drive after all other physical drives in
the system. If the next logical drive after the physical drives is mapped to a network drive, Windows XP
does not automatically assign a drive letter to the Media Card Reader.
To manually assign a drive for the Media Card Reader:
1 Right-click My Computer and select Manage.
2 Select the Disk Management option.
3 Right-click the corresponding drive letter in the right pane that needs to be changed.
4 Select Drive Letter and Paths.
5 From the drop-down list, select the new drive letter assignment for the Media Card Reader.
6 Click OK to confirm your selection.
NOTE: The Media Card Reader appears as a mapped drive only when it is connected. Each of the four
Media Card Reader slots are mapped to a drive even if no media is installed. If you attempt to access the
Media Card Reader when no media is inserted, you are prompted to insert media.
F L E X B A Y D E V I C E I S D I S A B L E D There is a FlexBay disable option in the BIOS setup that appears
only when the FlexBay device is installed. If the FlexBay device is physically installed, but it is not
running, check to see if it is enabled in the BIOS setup.

Keyboard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE
Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.
Shut down the computer (see page 63), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for
your computer, and then restart the computer.
Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent
pins.
Remove keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.
TE S T T H E K E Y B O A R D Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, and try using the
keyboard.
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R See page 60.

42

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

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

C H E C K T H E D I A G N O S T I C L I G H T S See page 53.
ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE
ELECTRICAL OUTLET

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or
moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer
turns off. Then restart your computer.

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM
1 Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.
2 Click Applications.
3 Click the program that is no longer responding.
4 Click End Task.

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy or CD.
C H E C K T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

43

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system

R U N T H E P R O G R A M C O M P A T I B I L I T Y W I Z A R D The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a
program so it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories, and then click Program Compatibility
Wizard.
2 In the welcome screen, click Next.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen.

A solid blue screen appears

TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or
moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer
turns off. Then restart your computer.

Other software problems

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR
TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION
Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.
Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See
the software documentation for information.
Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.
If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY
USE A VIRUS-SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE, FLOPPY DISKS, OR CDS
SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER THROUGH THE
START MENU

44

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Memory Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the
problem.
See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional
memory (see page 74).
Reseat the memory modules (see page 74) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating
with the memory.
Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 56).
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS
Reseat the memory modules (see page 74) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating
with the memory.
Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see page 74).
Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by
your computer, see "Memory" on page 111.
Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 56).

Mouse Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
C L E A N T H E M O U S E For instructions on cleaning the mouse, see "Mouse" on page 125.
CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE
1 Remove mouse extension cables, if used, and connect the mouse directly to the computer.
2 Reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

45

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

RESTART THE COMPUTER

1 Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the Start menu.
2 Type u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn Off, and then press <Enter>.
3 After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the on the setup diagram for your
computer.
4 Start the computer.
TE S T T H E M O U S E Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, and try using the mouse.
CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click Mouse.
3 Try adjusting the settings.
R E I N S T A L L T H E M O U S E D R I V E R See page 58.
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R See page 60.

Network Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K C A B L E C O N N E C T O R Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into
both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.
C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K L I G H T S O N T H E B A C K O F T H E C O M P U T E R If the link integrity light is off,
that indicates no network communication exists. Replace the network cable. For a description of
network lights, see "Controls and Lights" on page 114.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN
C H E C K Y O U R N E T W O R K S E T T I N G S 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.
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R See page 60.

46

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Power Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S G R E E N A N D T H E C O M P U T E R I S N O T R E S P O N D I N G See "Dell Diagnostics"
on page 56.
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S B L I N K I N G G R E E N The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the
keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation.
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S O F F The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.
Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical
outlet.
If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical
outlet and that the power strip is turned on. Also bypass power protection devices, power strips, and
power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on properly.
Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see
page 71).
IF

THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER

A device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see page 74).
Remove and then reinstall any cards (see page 76).
Remove and then reinstall the graphics card, if applicable (see page 76).

I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S B L I N K I N G A M B E R The computer is receiving electrical power, but an

internal power problem might exist.
Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location (if applicable).
Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 71).
E L I M I N A T E I N T E R F E R E N C E Some possible causes of interference are:
Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables
Too many devices on a power strip
Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

47

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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 printers manufacturer.
C H E C K T H E P R I N T E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N 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 (see page 13).
TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another
device, such as a lamp.
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click View installed printers or fax printers.
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.
3 Click Properties and click the Ports tab. For a USB printer, ensure that the Print to the following
port(s): setting is USB.
R E I N S T A L L T H E P R I N T E R D R I V E R See the printer documentation for instructions.

Scanner Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanners manufacturer.
C H E C K T H E S C A N N E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N See the scanner documentation for setup and
troubleshooting information.
U N L O C K T H E S C A N N E R Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

48

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.
Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E S C A N N E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y M I C R O S O F T W I N D O W S
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.
2 Click Scanners and Cameras.
If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.
R E I N S T A L L T H E S C A N N E R D R I V E R See the scanner documentation for instructions.

Sound and Speaker Problems

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

No sound from speakers

NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been
listening to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.
C H E C K T H E S P E A K E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N S 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.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E S U B W O O F E R A N D T H E S P E A K E R S A R E T U R N E D O N See the setup diagram
supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to
eliminate distortion.
A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L 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.
D I S C O N N E C T H E A D P H O N E S F R O M T H E H E A D P H O N E C O N N E C T O R Sound from the speakers is
automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computers front-panel headphone
connector.

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

49

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another

device, such as a lamp.
E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to
check for interference.
R E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D D R I V E R See page 59.
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R See page 60.

No sound from headphones

C H E C K T H E H E A D P H O N E C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted
into the headphone connector (see page 66).
A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right
corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

Video and Monitor Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.

If the screen is blank

CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION
Ensure that the graphics cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.
If you are using a graphics extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is
defective.
Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective.
Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing
pins.)
C H E C K T H E M O N I T O R P O W E R L I G H T If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that
the monitor is turned on. If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power. If the power light is
blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

50

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another

device, such as a lamp.
C H E C K T H E D I A G N O S T I C L I G H T S See page 53.

If the screen is difficult to read

C H E C K T H E M O N I T O R S E T T I N G S See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the
contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
M O V E T H E S U B W O O F E R A W A Y F R O M T H E M O N I T O R If your speaker system includes a subwoofer,
ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the monitor.
M O V E T H E M O N I T O R A W A Y F R O M E X T E R N A L P O W E R S O U R C E S 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
1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Appearance and Themes.
2 Click Display and click the Settings tab.
3 Try different settings for Screen resolution and Color quality.

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

51

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

52

Solving Problems

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Troubleshooting Tools
Diagnostic Lights
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4"
on the front panel (see page 65). When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. After the
computer starts, all four lights display solid green. If the computer malfunctions, the color and
sequence of the lights identify the problem.

Light Pattern

Problem Description

Suggested Resolution

The computer is in a normal "off"

condition or a possible pre-BIOS failure
has occurred.

Plug the computer into a working

electrical outlet. Also see "Power
Problems" on page 47.

All four diagnostic lights display solid

green and then turn off after the system
successfully boots to the operating
system.
A possible processor failure has occurred. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see
page 128).
Memory modules are detected, but a
memory failure has occurred.

If you have two or more memory

modules installed, remove the
modules, reinstall one module (see
page 74), and then restart the
computer. If the computer starts
normally, reinstall an additional
module. Continue until you have
identified a faulty module or
reinstalled all modules without error.
If available, install properly working
memory of the same type into your
computer (see page 74).
If the problem persists, contact Dell
(see page 128).

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

53

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Light Pattern

54

Problem Description

Suggested Resolution

A possible graphics card failure has

occurred.

If the computer has a graphics card,

remove the card (see page 76), reinstall
it, and then restart the computer.
If the problem still exists, install a
graphics card that you know works and
restart the computer.
If the problem persists, contact Dell
(see page 128).

A possible floppy drive or hard drive

failure has occurred.

Reseat all power and data cables and

restart the computer.

A possible USB failure has occurred.

Reinstall all USB devices, check cable

connections, and then restart the
computer.

No memory modules are detected.

If you have two or more memory

modules installed, remove the
modules, reinstall one module (see
page 74), and then restart the
computer. If the computer starts
normally, reinstall an additional
module. Continue until you have
identified a faulty module or
reinstalled all modules without error.
If available, install properly working
memory of the same type into your
computer (see page 74).
If the problem persists, contact Dell
(see page 128).

Memory modules are detected, but a

memory configuration or compatibility
error exists.

Ensure that no special memory

module/memory connector placement
requirements exist (see page 72).
Verify that the memory modules that
you are installing are compatible with
your computer (see page 72).
If the problem persists, contact Dell
(see page 128).

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Light Pattern

Problem Description
A possible expansion card failure has
occurred.

Suggested Resolution
1 Determine if a conflict exists by

removing a card (not a graphics card)

and restarting the computer (see
page 76).
2 If the problem persists, reinstall the
card that you removed, remove a
different card, and then restart the
computer.
3 Repeat this process for each card. If the
computer starts normally, troubleshoot
the last card removed from the
computer for resource conflicts (see
page 59).
4 If the problem persists, contact Dell
(see page 128).

Another failure has occurred.

Ensure that the cables are properly

connected to the system board from
the hard drive, CD drive, and DVD
drive (see page 71).
If there is an error message on your
screen identifying a problem with a
device (such as the floppy drive or hard
drive), check the device to ensure that
it is functioning properly.
The operating system is attempting to
boot from a device (such as the floppy
drive or hard drive); check system
setup (see page 115) to make sure the
boot sequence is correct for the devices
installed on your computer.
If the problem persists, contact Dell
(see page 128).

All four diagnostic lights display solid

green and then turn off after the system
successfully boots to the operating
system.

None.

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

55

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on
page 37 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.
1 Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2 When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the
Microsoft Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer (see page 63) and try again.
3 When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press <Enter>.
4 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

1 After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the
option you want.
Option

Function

Express Test

Performs a quick test of devices. This 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 devices. This test typically takes

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

Custom Test

Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you want
to run.

Symptom Tree

Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows

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

2 If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a
description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow
the instructions on the screen.
If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see page 128).
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell,
technical support will ask for your Service Tag.

56

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

3 If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab
described in the following table for more information.
Tab

Function

Results

Displays the results of the test and any error conditions

encountered.

Errors

Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the

problem description.

Help

Describes the test and may indicate requirements for running the
test.

Configuration

Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.

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

Parameters

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

4 Close the test screen to return to the Main Menu screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and
restart the computer, close the Main Menu screen.

Drivers
What Is a Driver?
A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices require
a driver program.
A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device. Each
device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes.
Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installedno further installation or
configuration is needed.
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

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

57

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.
5 Click Device Manager.
6 Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on
the device icon.
If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or
install a new driver.

Reinstalling Drivers
NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com provides approved drivers for Dell computers.
If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.
Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device
Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.
5 Click Device Manager.
6 Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties.
7 Click the Drivers tab.
8 Click Roll Back Driver.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your
computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.

58

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

1 After copying the required driver files to your hard drive, click the Start button and right-click
My Computer.
2 Click Properties.
3 Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.
4 Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver.
5 Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
6 Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.
7 Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click Next.
8 Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.
9 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.
10 Click Finish and restart your computer.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly
configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2 Type hardware troubleshooter in the Search field and click the arrow to start the search.
3 Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.
4 In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my
computer, and click Next.

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

Microsoft Windows XP System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state
without affecting data files.

Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when
you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive
and removes any applications installed after you received the computer.

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

59

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your
computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware,
software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the
Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or
recover them.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not
work if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view.
Creating a Restore Point

1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

2 Click System Restore.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 58) to
resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files
and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system
restoration is complete.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories System Tools, and then click
System Restore.
2 Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected and click Next.
3 Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
The Select a Restore Point screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore
points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.
4 Select a restore point and click Next.
If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected.
If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.
5 Click Next.
The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and
then the computer restarts.
6 After the computer restarts, click OK.
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you
can undo the restoration.

60

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open
programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories System Tools, and then click
System Restore.
2 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
Enabling System Restore

If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System
Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:
1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
2 Click Performance and Maintenance.
3 Click System.
4 Click the System Restore tab.
5 Ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.

Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec

NOTE: Dell PC Restore is not available in all countries.
Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system. PC
Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer.
Any programs or files added since you received your computerincluding data filesare
permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail
messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data before using PC
Restore.
NOTICE: Using PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications
or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using PC
Restore.
To use PC Restore:
1 Turn on the computer.
During the boot process, a blue bar with www.dell.com appears at the top of the screen.
2 Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press <Ctrl><F11>.
If you do not press <Ctrl><F11> in time, let the computer finish restarting, and then
restart the computer again.
NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the following step.
3 On the next screen that appears, click Restore.

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

61

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

4 On the next screen, click Confirm.

The restore process takes approximately 610 minutes to complete.
5 When prompted, click Finish to reboot the computer.
NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot.
6 When prompted, click Yes.
The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the
screens that appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that
appeared the first time the computer was turned on.
7 Click Next.
The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts.
8 After the computer restarts, click OK.

62

Troubleshooting Tools

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Removing and Installing Parts

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

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

You have read the safety information in your Dell Product Information Guide.

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

Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

Small flat-blade screwdriver

Phillips screwdriver

Flash BIOS update program floppy disk or CD

Turn Off Your Computer

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

1 Shut down the operating system:

a

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then
click Turn Off Computer.

In the Turn off computer window, click Turn off.

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

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

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

63

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to
help ensure your own personal safety.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a
card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor
by its edges, not by its pins.
NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to
servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.
NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable
itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press
in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly
aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both
connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside
the computer.

1 Turn off your computer.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it
from the network wall jack.
2 Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
3 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then
press the power button to ground the system board.
NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted
metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an
unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.

64

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Front View of the Computer

1

13
2

12
3
11
10
9
4

cover latch release

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

Computer Cover" on page 68.

CD or DVD activity light

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

CD or DVD eject button

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

FlexBay drives (2)

Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional Media Card

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

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

65

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

IEEE 1394 connector

(optional)

Use the optional IEEE 1394 connector for high-speed data

devices such as digital video cameras and external storage
devices.

vents

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

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

space between all vents and any object near these vents.
NOTICE: Keep the vent area clean and dust-free to ensure
that the system is adequately ventilated. Use only a dry
cloth to clean the vent area to avoid water damage to the
system.
7

USB 2.0 connectors (2)

Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect
occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB
devices (see "System Setup Options" on page 118 for more
information on booting to a USB device). It is recommended
that you use the back USB connectors for devices that typically
remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.

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.

66

hard-drive activity light

The hard drive activity light is on when the computer reads

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

10

diagnostic lights (4)

Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem

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

11

headphone connector

Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most

kinds of speakers.

12

microphone connector

Use the microphone connector to attach a personal computer

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

13

Service Tag

Used to identify your computer when you access the Dell

Support website or call technical support.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Back View of the Computer

1

2
3
4

power connector

Insert the power cable.

sound card connectors (5)

Line-in connector Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback

device such as a cassette player, CD player, or VCR.
Line-out connector Use the green line-out connector to attach headphones
and most speakers with integrated amplifiers.
Microphone connector Use the pink microphone connector to attach a
personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or
telephony program.
Surround connector Use the black surround connector to attach multichannelcapable speakers.
Center/subwoofer (Center/LFE) connector Use the yellow subwoofer
connector to attach multiple speakers.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

67

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

network connector

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

network cable to either a network jack or your network or broadband device.
Connect the other end of the network cable to the network connector on your
computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached.
NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network connector.
On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card.
It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your
network. If you must use Category 3 wiring, force the network speed to 10 Mbps to
ensure reliable operation.

USB 2.0 connectors (5)

Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as
printers and keyboards.
It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you
connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices.

card slots (6)

Access connectors for any installed PCI or PCI Express cards.

Removing the Computer Cover

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

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before removing the cover.

NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted
metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an
unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 If you have installed a security cable, remove it from the security cable slot.
NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the removed coverat least 30 cm (1 ft) of desk
top space.
NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the
computer or the surface on which it is resting.
3 Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up.
4 Pull back the cover latch release on the top panel.

68

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

cover latch release

computer cover

back of computer

hinge tabs (3)

5 Locate the three hinge tabs on the bottom edge of the computer.
6 Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up.
7 Lift the cover away and set it aside in a secure location.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

69

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Inside View of Your Computer

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

system board

CD or DVD drive

*floppy drive

hard drive
*may not be present on all computers

70

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

System Board Components

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

battery socket
(BATTERY)

memory fan
connector

processor
power
connector

front panel I/O

connector

main power
connector
IDE drive
connector

processor and
heat sink
connector

SATA connectors
(4) (SATA0,
SATA1, SATA2,
SATA3)
clear CMOS
jumper
(RTCRST)

fan connector
(CPU FAN)

FlexBay USB
connector
PCI Express x1
card connector
PCI Express x16
card connector

fan cardcage
connector
Serial 2
connector

PCI Express x4
card connector
password jumper
(PSWD)

floppy drive
connector (FLOPPY)

PCI card connectors

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

71

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

Memory Overview

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

NOTE: Always install memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.
The recommended memory configurations are:

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

or

72

A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 and
another matched pair installed in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4

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

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

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

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Channel A: matched pair of memory

modules in connectors DIMM_1
and DIMM_2 (white securing clips)
Channel B: matched pair of memory
modules in connectors DIMM_3
and DIMM_4 (black securing clips)

NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.
NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade,
keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules
from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your
computer may not start properly. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in
connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 or connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4.
Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations

Your computer supports a maximum of 4 GB of memory when you use four 1-GB DIMMs. Current
operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows XP, can only use a maximum of 4 GB of address
space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is less than 4 GB. Certain
components within the computer require address space in the 4-GB range. Any address space
reserved for these components cannot be used by computer memory.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

73

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Installing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computers electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).
3 Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the
computer.
4 Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

memory connector closest

to processor

securing clips (2)

connector

5 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.
notch
memory module
cutouts (2)

crossbar

74

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

notches
memory module
cutouts (2)

crossbars

notches
memory module
cutouts (2)
crossbars

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.

6 Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the
module.

7 Close the computer cover.

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

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

75

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

8 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
9 Right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties.
10 Click the General tab.
11 To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.

Removing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computers electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).
3 Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
4 Grasp the module and pull up.
If the module is difficult to remove, gently ease the module back and forth to remove it from
the connector.

Cards
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computers electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
Your Dell computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards:

76

Three PCI card slots

One PCI Express x1 card slot

One PCI Express x16 card slot

One PCI Express x4 card slot

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

PCI Cards

If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are
removing but not replacing a card, see ""Removing a PCI Card" on page 80".
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, see "Installing a PCI Express Card" on page 82.
Installing a PCI Card

NOTE: Dell offers an optional customer kit for Audigy II and IEEE 1394 PCI add-in-cards that includes a
front-mounted IEEE 1394 connector.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

release tabs (2)

card retention
door

alignment bar
alignment guide
filler bracket

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

77

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

card retention mechanism

card retention
door

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

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

Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.

5 If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then
continue with step 7.
6 If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners,
and ease it out of its connector.
7 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.

78

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a
network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet
before installing any cards.
8 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in
the slot.
not fully seated card
bracket within
slot

fully seated card

alignment guide
bracket caught
outside of slot
alignment bar

9 Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:

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

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

release tabs (2)

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

79

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

10 Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the card(s).
NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent
the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.

11 Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.

See the documentation for the card for information about the card cable connections.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug the
cable into the computer.
12 If you replaced a card that was already installed in the computer and you removed the
retention mechanism, you may reinstall the retention mechanism.
13 Before replacing the card retention mechanism, ensure that:

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

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

14 Snap the card retention mechanism into place, securing the x16 PCI card.
15 Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and
then turn them on.
16 If you installed a sound card:
a

Enter system setup, select Integrated Audio Controller, and then change the setting to
Off.

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

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

Enter system setup, select Integrated NIC Controller, and then change the setting to
Off.

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

18 Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
Removing a PCI Card

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

2 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).
3 If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot
opening.
If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see page 128).

80

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification
of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug the
cable into the computer.
4 Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and
then turn them on.
5 Remove the card driver from the operating system.
6 If you removed a sound card:
a

Enter system setup, select Integrated Audio Controller, and then change the setting to
On.

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

7 If you removed an add-in network connector:

a

Enter system setup, select Integrated NIC Controller, and then change the setting to
On.

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

PCI Express Cards

Your computer supports:

One PCI Express x1 card

One PCI Express x16 card

One PCI Express x4 card

If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, follow the procedures in the next section. If
you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing a PCI Express Card" on page 87.
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
If you are installing or replacing a PCI card, see "Installing a PCI Card" on page 77.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

81

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Installing a PCI Express Card

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

release tabs (2)

card retention
door

*lever on chassis wall

alignment bar
alignment guide
filler bracket
*may not be present on all computers

2 If present on your computer, rotate the lever on the chassis wall upward.
3 Push the two release tabs on the card retention door toward each other and pivot the door
open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.

82

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

release tab

card retention mechanism*

card retention
door

*"piano" bracket

*may not be present on all computers

4 If your computer includes a card retention mechanism:

a

Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the
mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.

Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.

NOTE: For full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it
upward by pressing the tabs on the side of the bracket toward each other.
5 If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then
continue with step 7.
6 If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the existing card.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. If your card includes a retention
mechanism, remove the top of the retention mechanism by pressing the tab and pulling up
on the top.
NOTE: For full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it
upward by pressing the tabs on the side of the bracket toward each other.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

83

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

7 Pull the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out of its connector.
PCI Express x1
card

PCI Express
x16 card
securing tab

PCI Express x16

card slot

PCI Express x1
card slot

8 Prepare the card for installation.

See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card,
making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.
CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a
network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet
before installing any cards.
9 If you are installing the card into the x16 card connector, position the card so that the
securing slot is aligned with the securing tab.
NOTICE: Ensure that you release the securing tab to seat the card. If the card is not installed correctly,
you may damage the system board.
10 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in
the slot.

84

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

not fully seated card

bracket within slot
fully seated card

alignment guide
bracket caught
outside of slot
alignment bar

11 Ensure that:

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

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

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

card retention mechanism*

card
retention
door

*"piano" bracket

*may not be present on all computers

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

85

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent
the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug the
cable into the computer.
NOTE: or full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it
down into place.
13 Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and
then turn them on.
14 If you installed a sound card:
a

Enter system setup, select Integrated Audio Controller, and then change the setting to
Off.

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

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

Enter system setup select Integrated NIC Controller, and then change the setting to
Off.

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

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

86

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Removing a PCI Express Card

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

2 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

release tabs (2)

*lever on chassis wall

card retention
door

alignment bar
alignment guide
filler bracket
*may not be present on all computers

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

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

87

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

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

card retention mechanism

card retention
door

*"piano" bracket

*may not be present on all computers

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

Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the
mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.

Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.

NOTE: For full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it
upward by pressing the tabs on the side of the bracket toward each other.
PCI Express x1
card

PCI Express
x16 card
securing tab

PCI Express x16

card slot

88

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

PCI Express x1
card slot

NOTICE: Ensure that you release the securing tab to unseat the card. If the card is not removed
correctly, the system board may be damaged.
6 Release the securing tab on the card slot to unseat the card.
7 If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot
opening.
If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see page 128).
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.
8 Reseat the card retention mechanism in the tabs and pivot downward to snap it into place.
9 Close the card retention door to snap it into place, securing the card(s).
NOTE: For full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your computer you need to rotate it
down into place.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug the
cable into the computer.
10 Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and
then turn them on.
11 Remove the card driver from the operating system.
12 If you removed a sound card:
a

Enter system setup, select Integrated Audio Controller, and then change the setting to
On.

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

13 If you removed an add-in network connector:

a

Enter system setup, select Integrated NIC Controller, and then change the setting to
On.

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

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

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

89

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Drive Panels
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before removing the cover.

Removing the Drive Panel

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
sliding plate lever

sliding plate

drive panel

2 Grasping the lever on the sliding plate, pull the sliding plate to the right and hold in place.
NOTE: The sliding plate secures and releases the drive panel and helps to secure the drives.

90

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

3 Push from the inside and pivot the drive panel to the left to release the panel from its side
hinges.
4 Set the drive panel aside in a secure location.

Removing the Drive-Panel Insert

drive-panel
insert tab
drive panel

drive-panel insert

1 Turn the drive panel sideways and find the tip of the drive-panel insert tab that latches over a
tab on the right side of the drive panel.
2 Pull the inner tip of the drive-panel insert tab away from the drive panel.
3 Pivot the drive-panel insert out and away from the drive panel.
4 Set the drive-panel insert aside in a secure location.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

91

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert

drive panel
drive-panel
insert tab

center drivepanel tab

drive-panel insert

1 Slide the tab on the left side of the drive-panel insert under the center drive panel tab.
2 Rotate the drive-panel insert into place and snap the drive-panel insert tab over the
corresponding tab on the drive panel.
3 Ensure that the drive-panel insert is correctly seated in the drive panel.

92

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Replacing the Drive Panel

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
sliding plate lever

sliding plate

drive panel

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

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

Drives
Your computer supports:

Two hard drives (Serial ATA)

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

Two CD or DVD drives

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

93

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

General Installation Guidelines

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

When connecting an IDE cable, ensure you align the colored stripe with the pin 1 connector.
When disconnecting an IDE cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector
detaches.
When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA cable, hold the cable by the connector at each
end.

Hard Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a
surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
1 If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data you want to keep, back up your files before
you begin this procedure.
2 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
3 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).

94

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Removing a Hard Drive

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

power cable
hard drive cable

2 Press in on the tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out.
tabs (2)

hard drive

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

95

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Installing a Hard Drive

1 Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation.
2 Check the documentation for the drive to verify that the drive is configured for your
computer.
3 If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard drive bracket attached, remove the
bracket from the old hard drive by unsnapping it from the drive.
4 Snap the hard drive bracket onto the replacement hard drive.
5 Install the hard drive into the computer by sliding the drive into place until you feel it click
into place.
hard drive

hard drive bracket

96

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

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

power cable
hard drive cable

7 Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.
8 Close the computer cover.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network wall jack and then plug the
cable in to the computer.

9 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the hard drive for instructions about installing any
software required for the operation of the hard drive.

Adding a Second Hard Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a
surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
1 Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
2 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

97

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

3 Press in on the tabs on each side of the hard drive bracket in the empty drive bay and slide the
bracket up and out.
4 Snap the hard drive bracket onto the new hard drive.
NOTICE: Do not install any drive into the lower hard-drive bay until you have removed the hard drive
bracket from the inside of the hard drive bay.
5 Slide the new hard drive into empty bay until you feel a click.
NOTE: If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard drive bracket attached, remove the
bracket from the old hard drive by unsnapping it from the drive. Snap the bracket onto the new hard
drive.

hard drive

hard drive bracket

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

98

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

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

8 Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.
9 Replace the computer cover (page 110).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into
the computer.
10 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software
required for drive operation.

Floppy Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.
NOTE: If you are adding a floppy drive, see ""Installing a Floppy Drive" on page 101."

Removing a Floppy Drive

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).
Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

99

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

3 Disconnect the power and floppy drive cables from the back of the floppy drive.
4 Disconnect the other end of the floppy drive cable from the system board.
sliding plate lever

power cable

floppy drive cable

sliding plate

floppy drive

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

6 Slide the floppy drive out of the floppy drive bay.

100

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Installing a Floppy Drive

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

shoulder
screws (4)

2 Slide the floppy drive into the floppy drive bay until the sliding plate clicks into place and the
drive snaps into position.
3 Attach the power and floppy-drive cables to the floppy drive.
4 For more information on system board, see "System Board Components" on page 71.
5 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and
cooling vents.
6 Close the computer cover.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network wall jack and then plug it in to
the computer.
7 Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the floppy drive for instructions on installing any
software required for the operation of the drive.
8 Enter system setup (see page 116) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive option.
9 Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 56).

Media Card Reader

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

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

101

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Removing a Media Card Reader

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computers electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the
computer.
3 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).
4 Remove the drive panel (see page 90).
USB cable
*Media Card Reader

*Not present on all computers.

102

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

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

sliding plate

*Media Card Reader

*Not present on all computers.

6 While pushing on the back of the drive, remove the Media Card Reader by sliding and
holding the sliding plate.
7 Replace the drive panel (see page 93).
8 Replace the computer cover (see page 110).

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

103

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Installing a Media Card Reader

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computers electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

Media Card
Reader

screws (4)

2 Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the
computer.
3 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).
4 Remove the drive panel (see page 90).
5 Remove the Media Card Reader from its packaging and ensure that all four screws are
included..
6 Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.
Ensure that the Media Card Reader is installed before the FlexBay cable is connected.
7 Connect the FlexBay USB cable to the back of the Media Card Reader and to the Media Card
Reader connector on the system board (see page 71).

104

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

USB cable
*Media Card Reader

*Not present on all computers.

8 Insert the Media Card Reader into the bay and slide the drive in to seat it in the computer.
9 Route the USB cable through the cable routing clip.
10 Replace the computer cover (see page 110).

CD/DVD Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet
before opening the cover.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

105

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Removing a CD/DVD Drive

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).
3 Disconnect the power cable from the back of the drive and the CD/DVD drive cable from the
back of the drive and the system board.
CD/DVD drive cable

power cable

system board

106

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

4 Slide the drive release mechanism to the right to release the shoulder screw and slide the drive
out to remove it from the drive bay.

Installing a CD/DVD Drive

1 If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.
Check the documentation that accompanied the drive to verify that the drive is configured
for your computer. If you are installing an IDE drive, configure the drive for the cable select
setting.
2 If you are installing a new drive, remove the three shoulder screws from the inside of the drivepanel insert and attach the screws to the new drive.
CD/DVD drive

shoulder screws (3)

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

107

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

3 Slide the drive into the drive bay until the drive clicks into position.
4 Connect the power cable to the drive and the CD/DVD cable to the drive and system board.
CD/DVD drive

power cable

system board

5 If you are installing a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front
panel inserts.
6 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and
cooling vents.
7 Close the computer cover.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network wall jack and then plug it in to
the computer.
8 Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software
required for drive operation.
9 Enter system setup (see page 116) and select the appropriate Drive option.
10 Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 56).

108

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Battery
Replacing the Battery
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computers electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
A coin-cell battery maintains computer configuration, date, and time information. The battery can
last several years.
If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, replace
the battery.
CAUTION: A new battery can explode 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
manufacturers instructions.
To replace the battery:
1 Record all the screens in system setup (see page 115) so that you can restore the correct
settings in step 10.
2 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
3 Remove the computer cover (see page 68).
4 Locate the battery socket.
NOTICE: If you pry the battery out of its socket with a blunt object, be careful not to touch the system
board with the object. Ensure that the object is inserted between the battery and the socket before you
attempt to pry out the battery. Otherwise, you may damage the system board by prying off the socket or
by breaking circuit traces on the system board.
5 Remove the battery by carefully prying it out of its socket with your fingers or with a blunt,
nonconducting object such as a plastic screwdriver.
6 Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up, and snap the
battery into place.

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

109

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

battery

battery socket

tab

7 Replace the computer cover.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into
the computer.
8 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
9 Enter system setup and restore the settings you recorded in step 1.
10 Properly dispose of the old battery.

Replacing the Computer Cover

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
1 Ensure that all cables are connected, and fold cables out of the way.
Gently pull the power cables toward you so that they do not get caught underneath the drives.
2 Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer.
3 Close the cover:
a

Pivot the cover down.

Press down on the right side of the cover until it closes.

Press down on the left side of the cover until it closes.

Ensure that both sides of the cover are locked. If not, repeat all of step 3.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into
the computer.
4 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
110

Removing and Installing Parts

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Appendix
Specifications
Processor
Processor type

Intel Pentium 4 Socket-T with Hyper-Threading technology

Cache

1 MB or 2 MB

Memory
Type

dual-channel 400-, 533-, and 667-MHz DDR2

Memory connectors

four

Memory capacities

256 MB, 512 MB, or 1 GB

Minimum memory

512 MB

Maximum memory

4 GB

BIOS address

F0000h

Computer Information
Chipset

Intel 945P

DMA channels

eight

Interrupt levels

24

BIOS chip (NVRAM)

4 Mb

NIC

Integrated network interface capable of 10/100/1000 communication

System clock

800- or 1066-MHz data rate (depending on your processor)

Video
Type

PCI Express

Audio
Type

Internal 7.1 channel or PCI option cards

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

111

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Expansion Bus
Bus type

PCI 32 bit
PCI Express x1, x4, and x16

Bus speed

PCI: 33 MHz
PCI Express:100 MHz

Bus throughput

PCI Express:
x1 slot bidirectional speed - 500 MB/s
x4 slot bidirectional speed - 2 GB/s
x16 slot bidirectional speed - 8 GB/s

PCI
connectors

three

connector size

120 pins

connector data width (maximum)

32 bits

PCI Express
connector

one x1

connector size

36 pins

connector data width (maximum)

1 PCI Express lane

PCI Express
connector

one x4

connector size

98 pins

connector data width (maximum)

4 PCI Express lanes

PCI Express

112

connector

one x16

connector size

164 pins

connector data width (maximum)

16 PCI Express lanes

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Drives
Externally accessible:
two 3.5-inch drive bays (FlexBay)
two 5.25-inch drive bays
Available devices

serial ATA drives (2), floppy drive, USB memory devices, CD drive,
CD-RW drive, DVD drive, DVD-RW drive, Media Card Reader,
and DVD/CD-RW combo drive

Internally accessible:

two 3.5-inch hard-drive bays

Connectors
External connectors:
IEEE 1394

one front-panel 6-pin serial connector (with optional card)

Video

15-pin VGA connector

28-pin DVI connector

Network adapter

RJ-45 connector

USB

two front-panel and five back-panel USB 2.0-compliant connectors

Audio

five back-panel connectors for line-in, line-out, microphone,

surround, and center/Low Frequency Effects (LFE) channel; two
front-panel connectors for headphones/microphone

System board connectors:

Primary IDE drive

40-pin connector on PCI local bus

Serial ATA

four 7-pin connectors

FlexBay Drive

USB 10-pin header for optional floppy drive or optional Media

Card Reader (3.5-inch bay devices)

Fan

5-pin connector

PCI

three 120-pin connectors

PCI Express x1

36-pin connector

PCI Express x4

98-pin connector

PCI Express x16

164-pin connector

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

113

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Controls and Lights

Power control

push button

Power light

green light Blinking green in sleep state; solid green for power-on
state.
amber light Blinking amber indicates a problem with the power
supply inside the computer. If the system cannot boot and there is a
solid amber light, this indicates a problem with the system board
(see "Power Problems" on page 47).

Hard-drive access light

green

Link integrity light (on integrated

network adapter)

green light A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps

network and the computer.
orange light A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps
network and the computer.
off (no light) The computer is not detecting a physical
connection to the network.

Activity light (on integrated network

adapter)

yellow light Blinking indicates activity on the network.

Diagnostic lights

four lights on the front panel (see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 53.)

Standby power light

AUXPWR on the system board

Power
DC power supply:
Wattage

375 W

Heat dissipation

1280 BTU/hr

Voltage (See the safety instructions 90 to 135 V and 180 to 265 V at 50/60 Hz
in the Product Information Guide
for important voltage setting
information.)
Backup battery

3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell

Physical

114

Height

44.45 cm (17.5 inches)

Width

16.764 cm (6.6 inches)

Depth

44.45 cm (17.5 inches)

Weight

12.7 kg (28 lb)

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Environmental
Temperature:
Operating

10 to 35C (50 to 95F)

Storage

40 to 65C (40 to 149F)

Relative humidity

20% to 80% (noncondensing)

Maximum vibration:
Operating

0.25 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 0.5 octave/min

Storage

0.5 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1 octave/min

Maximum shock:
Operating

bottom half-sine pulse with a change in velocity of 20 inches/sec

(50.8 cm/sec)

Storage

27-G faired square wave with a velocity change of 200 inches/sec

(508 cm/sec)

Altitude:
Operating

15.2 to 3048 m (50 to 10,000 ft)

Storage

15.2 to 10,668 m (50 to 35,000 ft)

System Setup
Overview
Use system setup as follows:

To change the system configuration information after you add, change, or remove any
hardware in your computer

To set or change a user-selectable option such as the user password

To read the current amount of memory or set the type of hard drive installed

Before you use system setup, it is recommended that you write down the system setup screen
information for future reference.
NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings for this program. Certain
changes can make your computer work incorrectly.

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

115

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Entering System Setup

1 Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2 When the blue DELL logo is displayed, you must watch for the F2 prompt to appear.
3 Once this F2 prompt appears, press <F2> immediately.
NOTE: The F2 prompt indicates that the keyboard has initialized. This prompt can appear very quickly, so
you must watch for it to display, and then press <F2>. If you press <F2> before you are prompted, this
keystroke will be lost.
4 If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the
Microsoft Windows desktop. Then, shut down your computer (see page 63) and try again.
System Setup Screens

The system setup screen displays current or changeable configuration information for your
computer. Information on the screen is divided into three areas: the options list, active options
field, and key functions.

116

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Options List This

field appears on the left
side of the system setup
window. The field is a
scrollable list containing
features that define the
configuration of your
computer, including
installed hardware,
power conservation, and
security features.

Option Field This field contains information about each

option. In this field you can view your current settings and
make changes to your settings.
Use the right and left arrow keys to highlight an option. Press
<Enter> to make that selection active.

Scroll up and down the

list with the up- and
down-arrow keys. As an
option is highlighted, the
Option Field displays
more information about Key Functions This field appears below the Option Field
and lists keys and their functions within the active system
that option and the
setup field.
options current and
available settings. By
pressing <Enter> or the
left and right arrow keys,
you can toggle between a
primary topic (collapsed)
and subtopics
(expanded).

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

117

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

System Setup Options

NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not
appear, or may not appear exactly as listed.
System
System Info

Lists system information such as the computer name, the BIOS version
number and date, system tags, and other system-specific information.
NOTE: The system name listed in the BIOS may not appear exactly as the
name that appears on the computer or in the computers documentation.

CPU Info

Identifies whether the computers processor supports Hyper-Threading and

lists the processor bus speed, processor ID, clock speed, and L2 cache.

Memory Info

Indicates amount of installed memory, memory speed, channel mode (dual

or single), and type of memory installed.

Date/Time

Displays current date and time settings.

Boot Sequence

The computer attempts to boot from the sequence of devices specified in

this list.
NOTE: If you insert a boot device and restart the computer, this option appears
in the system setup menu. To boot from a USB memory device, select the USB
device and move it so it becomes the first device in the list.

Drives
Diskette Drive

Identifies and defines the floppy drive attached to the FLOPPY connector
on the system board as Off, USB, Internal, or Read Only.

Drives 0 through 3

Identifies the drives attached to the SATA connectors on the system board,
and lists the capacity for hard drives.

SATA Operation

Identifies and defines the SATA controller settings for RAID. You can set
the SATA controller to RAID Autodetect/AHCI, RAID Autodetect/ATA, or
RAID On.

Onboard Devices

118

Integrated NIC
Controller

You can set the NIC to On (default), Off, or On w/ PXE. When the On
w/ PXE setting is active (available only for the future boot process), the
computer prompts you to press <Ctrl><Alt><b>. Pressing this key
combination causes a menu to display that allows you to select a method for
booting from a network server. If a boot routine is not available from the
network server, the computer attempts to boot from the next device in the
boot sequence list.

Integrated Audio
Controller

Enables or disables the onboard audio controller.

USB Controller

Set to On (default) so that USB devices will be detected and supported in

the operating system.

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

USB for FlexBay

This field enables and disables the internal USB for FlexBay.
Off = Internal USB for FlexBay is disabled.
On = Internal USB for FlexBay is enabled.
No Boot = Internal USB for FlexBay is enabled but not bootable.
The factory default setting is No Boot.
NOTE: This USB option appears only if a FlexBay device is installed.

Video
Primary Video

This setting specifies which video controller is primary when two video
controllers are present on the computer.

Video Memory Size

Offering selectable options of 1MB and 8MB, this field configures the
system memory allocation reserved for the integrated video controller.

Performance
SpeedStep

If applicable, Intel SpeedStep appears in the Options List under

Performance.

HyperThreading

If your computer processor supports Hyper-Threading, this option appears

in the Options List.

Hard Drive
Acoustics

Bypass (default) Your computer does not test or change the current
acoustics mode setting.
Quiet The hard drive operates at its most quiet setting.
Suggested The hard drive operates at the level suggested by the drive
manufacturer.
Performance The hard drive operates at its maximum speed.
NOTE: Switching to performance mode will cause the drive heads to move
faster, causing the hard drive to be noisier. However, some drives may not see
an increase in data transfer rates.
NOTE: Changing the acoustics setting does not alter your hard drive image.

Security

This section displays available system security options.

Admin Password

This option provides restricted access to the computer's system setup

program in the same way that access to the system can be restricted with
the System Password option.

System Password

Displays the current status of the system's password security feature and
allows a new system password to be assigned and verified.

Password Status

This option locks the system password field with the setup password. When
the field is locked, you can no longer disable password security by pressing
<Ctrl><Enter> when the computer starts.

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

119

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Power Management
AC Recovery

Determines what happens when AC power is restored to the computer.

Auto Power On

Sets the computer to automatically turn on. Choices are every day or every
Monday through Friday.
The default setting is Off.
This feature does not work if you turn off your computer using a power strip
or surge protector.

Auto Power Time

Sets time to automatically turn on the computer.

Time is kept in the standard 12-hour format (hours:minutes). Change the
startup time by pressing the right- or left-arrow key to increase or decrease
the numbers, or type numbers in both the date and time fields.
This feature does not work if you turn off your computer using a power strip
or surge protector.

Low Power Mode

When Low Power Mode is selected, remote wakeup events no longer power
up from Hibernate or Off.

Remote Wake Up

This option allows the computer to power up when a NIC or Remote

Wakeup-capable modem receives a wake up signal.
On is the default setting. On w/ Boot to NIC allows the computer to
attempt to boot from a network prior to using the boot sequence.
NOTE: Normally, the system can be powered up remotely from suspend mode,
hibernate mode, or when powered off. When Low Power Mode (in the Power
Management menu) is enabled, the computer can only be powered up
remotely from Suspend.

Suspend Mode

The options are S1, a suspend state where the computer is running in a lowpower mode, and S3, a standby state where the power is reduced or turned
off for most components, however, system memory remains active.

Maintenance
CMOS Defaults

This setting restores the computers default settings.

Event Log

Displays the system event log.

POST Behavior

120

Fastboot

When set to On (default), your computer starts more quickly because it

skips certain configurations and tests.

Numlock Key

This option involves the rightmost bank of keys on your keyboard. When set
to On (default), this option activates the numeric and mathematical
features shown at the top of each key. When set to Off, this option activates
the cursor-control functions labeled on the bottom of each key.

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

POST Hotkeys

This option allows you to specify the function keys to display on the screen
when the computer starts.

Keyboard Errors

This option disables or enables keyboard error reporting when the computer
starts.

Boot Sequence
This feature allows you to change the boot sequence for devices.
NOTICE: If you modify any boot sequence settings, save the new settings to avoid losing the changes.
Option Settings

NOTE: The computer attempts to boot from all bootable devices but if no bootable device is found, the
computer generates an error message that states No boot device available. Press the <F1>
key to retry the boot, or press the <F2> key to enter the setup utility.

Diskette Drive The computer attempts to boot from the floppy drive. If there is no floppy
in the drive or there is no floppy drive installed, the computer attempts to boot from the next
bootable device in the sequence.
NOTE: If there is a non-bootable floppy in the drive, the computer generates an error message.
Follow the on-screen instructions to retry the boot.

Hard Drive The computer attempts to boot from the primary hard drive. If no operating
system is on the drive, the computer attempts to boot to the next bootable device.

CD Drive The computer attempts to boot from the CD drive. If no CD is in the drive, or
if the CD has no operating system, the computer attempts to boot to the next bootable
device.

USB Flash Device Insert the memory device into a USB port and restart the computer.
When F12 = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press <F12>. The
BIOS detects the device and adds the USB flash option to the boot menu.
NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To ensure that your device is
bootable, check the device documentation.

Changing Boot Sequence for the Current Boot

You can use this feature, for example, to restart your computer to a USB device such as a floppy
drive, memory key, or CD-RW drive.
NOTE: If you are booting to a USB floppy drive, you must first set the floppy drive to OFF in system setup
(see page 115).
1 If you are booting to a USB device, connect the USB device to a USB connector (see
page 113).
2 Turn on (or restart) your computer.

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

121

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

3 When F2 = Setup, F12 = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right corner of the screen,
press <F12>.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the
Microsoft Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer (see page 63) and try again.
The Boot Device Menu appears, listing all available boot devices. Each device has a number
next to it.
4 At the bottom of the menu, enter the number of the device that is to be used for the current
boot only.
For example, if you are booting to a USB memory key, highlight USB Flash Device and press
<Enter>.
NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To make sure your device is bootable,
check the device documentation.
Changing Boot Sequence for Future Boots

1 Enter system setup (see page 116).

2 Use the arrow keys to highlight the Boot Sequence menu option and press <Enter> to access
the menu.
NOTE: Write down your current boot sequence in case you want to restore it.
3 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to move through the list of devices.
4 Press the spacebar to enable or disable a device (enabled devices have a checkmark).
5 Press plus (+) or minus () to move a selected device up or down the list.

122

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Clearing Forgotten Passwords

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.

3 2 1

RTCRST

3 2 1

PSWD

2 Locate the 3-pin password jumper (PSWD) on the system board (see page 71), and attach the
jumper plug to pins 2 and 3 to clear the password.
NOTE: When you receive your computer, the jumper plug is attached to pins 1 and 2.
3 Close the computer cover (see page 110).
4 Connect your computer and monitor to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
5 After the Microsoft Windows desktop appears on your computer, shut down the computer
(see page 63).
6 Turn off the monitor and disconnect it from the electrical outlet.
7 Disconnect the computer power cable from the electrical outlet, and press the power button
to ground the system board.
8 Open the computer cover (see page 68).
9 Locate the 3-pin password jumper (PSWD) on the system board (see page 71) and attach the
jumper to pins 1 and 2 to reenable the password feature.

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

123

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

10 Close the computer cover (see page 110).

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

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

Clearing CMOS Settings

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63.
2 Reset the current CMOS settings:
a

Locate the 3-pin CMOS jumper (RTCRST) on the system board (see page 71).

Remove the jumper plug from pins 2 and 3.

Place the jumper plug on pins 1 and 2 and wait approximately five seconds.

Replace the jumper plug on pins 2 and 3.

3 Close the computer cover (see page 110).

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

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

Cleaning Your Computer

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

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor

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

Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust from the slots and holes
on your computer and from between the keys on the keyboard.
NOTICE: Do not wipe the display screen with any soap or alcohol solution. Doing so may damage the
antiglare coating.

To clean your monitor screen, lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth with water. If possible, use a
special screen-cleaning tissue or solution suitable for the monitors antistatic coating.

Wipe the keyboard, computer, and plastic part of the monitor with a soft cleaning cloth
moistened with a solution of three parts water and one part dishwashing detergent.
Do not soak the cloth or let water drip inside your computer or keyboard.

124

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Mouse
If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse. To clean a non-optical mouse:
1 Turn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counterclockwise, and then remove the
ball.
2 Wipe the ball with a clean, lint-free cloth.
3 Blow carefully into the ball cage to dislodge dust and lint.
4 If the rollers inside the ball cage are dirty, clean the rollers with a cotton swab moistened
lightly with isopropyl alcohol.
5 Recenter the rollers in their channels if they are misaligned. Ensure that fluff from the swab is
not left on the rollers.
6 Replace the ball and retainer ring, and turn the retainer ring clockwise until it clicks into
place.

Floppy Drive
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign the heads,
which prevents the drive from operating.
Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain pretreated
floppies to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation.

CDs and DVDs

NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions
that come with the compressed air. Never touch the lens in the drive.

If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try
cleaning the discs.
1 Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.
NOTICE: To prevent damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.
2 With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a
straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disc.
For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also
purchase commercial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust,
fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are safe to use on DVDs.

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

Technician-assisted technical support requires the cooperation and participation of the customer
in the troubleshooting process and provides for restoration of the operating system, software
programs, and hardware drivers to the original default configuration as shipped from Dell, as well as

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

125

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

the verification of appropriate functionality of the computer and all Dell-installed hardware. In
addition to this technician-assisted technical support, online technical support is available at
support.dell.com. Additional technical support options may be available for purchase.
Dell provides limited technical support for the computer and any "Dell-installed" software and
peripherals1. Support for third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original
manufacturer, including those purchased and/or installed through Dell Software and Peripherals,
Readyware, and Custom Factory Integration2.
1
2

Repair services are provided pursuant to the terms and conditions of your limited warranty and any optional
support service contract purchased with the computer.
All Dell-standard components included in a Custom Factory Integration (CFI) project are covered by the standard Dell limited warranty for your computer. However, Dell also extends a parts replacement program to
cover all nonstandard, third-party hardware components integrated through CFI for the duration of the computers service contract.

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals

Dell-installed software includes the operating system and some of the software programs that are
installed on the computer during the manufacturing process (Microsoft Office, Norton Antivirus,
and so on).
Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dell-branded module bay or PC
Card accessories. In addition, any Dell-branded monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers, microphones
for telephonic modems, docking stations/port replicators, networking products, and all associated
cabling are included.

Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals

Third-party software and peripherals include any peripheral, accessory, or software program sold by
Dell not under the Dell brand (printers, scanners, cameras, games, and so on). Support for all thirdparty software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer of the product.

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as
Class B digital devices. To determine which classification applies to your computer system,
examine all FCC registration labels on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, on cardmounting brackets, and on the cards themselves. If any one of the labels carries a Class A rating,
your entire system is considered to be a Class A digital device. If all labels carry an FCC Class B
rating as distinguished by either an FCC ID number or the FCC logo, ( ), your system is
considered to be a Class B digital device.
Once you have determined your systems FCC classification, read the appropriate FCC notice.
Note that FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell
could void your authority to operate this equipment.

126

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
This device may not cause harmful interference.
This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

Class A
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the manufacturers instruction manual, may cause harmful interference with radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference, in which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own expense.

Class B
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturers
instruction manual, may cause interference with radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

127

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

FCC Identification Information

The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in
compliance with FCC regulations:

Model number: DCTA

Company name:
Dell Inc.
One Dell Way
Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA
512-338-4400

Contacting Dell
To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:

www.dell.com

support.dell.com (technical support)

premiersupport.dell.com (technical support for educational, government, healthcare, and

medium/large business customers, including Premier, Platinum, and Gold customers)

For specific web addresses for your country, find the appropriate country section in the table below.
NOTE: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed.
NOTE: In certain countries, technical support specific to Dell XPS portable computers is available at a
separate telephone number listed for participating countries. If you do not see a telephone number listed that is
specific for XPS portable computers, you may contact Dell through the technical support number listed and
your call will be routed appropriately.

When you need to contact Dell, use the electronic addresses, telephone numbers, and codes
provided in the following table. If you need assistance in determining which codes to use, contact a
local or an international operator.

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Anguilla

General Support

toll-free: 800-335-0031

Antigua and Barbuda

General Support

1-800-805-5924

128

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Argentina (Buenos Aires)

Website: www.dell.com.ar

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 54

E-mail for desktop and portable computers:

[email protected]

City Code: 11

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

E-mail for servers and EMC storage products:

[email protected]
Customer Care

toll-free: 0-800-444-0730

Tech Support

toll-free: 0-800-444-0733

Tech Support Services

toll-free: 0-800-444-0724

Sales
Aruba

General Support

Australia (Sydney)

E-mail (Australia): [email protected]

0-810-444-3355
toll-free: 800-1578

International Access Code: 0011 E-mail Customer Care (Australia and

New Zealand): [email protected]
Country Code: 61
City Code: 2

Home and Small Business

1-300-655-533

Government and Business

toll-free: 1-800-633-559

Preferred Accounts Division (PAD)

toll-free: 1-800-060-889

Customer Care (after sales)

toll-free 1-333-55(option 3)

Technical Support (portables and desktops)

toll-free: 1-300-655-533

Technical Support (servers and workstations)

toll-free: 1-800-733-314

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1-800-808-385

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1-800-808-312

Fax

toll-free: 1-800-818-341

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

129

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Austria (Vienna)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 900

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 43

Home/Small Business Sales

0820 240 530 00

City Code: 1

Home/Small Business Fax

0820 240 530 49

Home/Small Business Customer Care

0820 240 530 14

Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care

0820 240 530 16

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0820 240 530 81

Home/Small Business Technical Support for all

other Dell computers

0820 240 530 14

Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support

Switchboard

0660 8779
0820 240 530 00

Bahamas

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6818

Barbados

General Support

1-800-534-3066

Belgium (Brussels)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 32

E-mail for French-speaking Customers:

support.euro.dell.com/be/fr/emaildell/

City Code: 2

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

02 481 92 96

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

02 481 92 88

Technical Support Fax

02 481 92 95

Customer Care

02 713 15 65

Corporate Sales

02 481 91 00

Fax

02 481 92 99

Switchboard

02 481 91 00

Bermuda

General Support

1-800-342-0671

Bolivia

General Support

toll-free: 800-10-0238

Brazil

Website: www.dell.com/br

International Access Code: 00

Customer Support, Technical Support

Country Code: 55

Technical Support Fax

51 481 5470

City Code: 51

Customer Care Fax

51 481 5480

Sales
British Virgin Islands

130

General Support

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

0800 90 3355

0800 90 3390
toll-free: 1-866-278-6820

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Brunei

Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4966

Country Code: 673

Customer Care (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4888

Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4955

Canada (North York, Ontario)

Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus

International Access Code: 011

AutoTech (automated technical support)

toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

Customer Care (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

Customer Care (med./large business, government)

toll-free: 1-800-326-9463

Technical Support (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

Technical Support (med./large bus., government)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5757

Technical Support (printers, projectors, televisions,

handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)

1-877-335-5767

Sales (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5752

Sales (med./large bus., government)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5755

Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales

1 866 440 3355

Cayman Islands

General Support

1-800-805-7541

Chile (Santiago)

Sales, Customer Support, and Technical Support

toll-free: 1230-020-4823

Country Code: 56
City Code: 2

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

131

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

China (Xiamen)

Technical Support website: support.dell.com.cn

Country Code: 86

Technical Support E-mail: [email protected]

City Code: 592

Customer Care E-mail: [email protected]

Technical Support Fax

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

592 818 1350

Technical Support (Dell Dimension and

Inspiron)

toll-free: 800 858 2969

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and

Dell Precision)

toll-free: 800 858 0950

Technical Support (servers and storage)

toll-free: 800 858 0960

Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, switches,

routers, and so on)

toll-free: 800 858 2920

Technical Support (printers)

toll-free: 800 858 2311

Customer Care

toll-free: 800 858 2060

Customer Care Fax

592 818 1308

Home and Small Business

toll-free: 800 858 2222

Preferred Accounts Division

toll-free: 800 858 2557

Large Corporate Accounts GCP

toll-free: 800 858 2055

Large Corporate Accounts Key Accounts

toll-free: 800 858 2628

Large Corporate Accounts North

toll-free: 800 858 2999

Large Corporate Accounts North Government and

Education

toll-free: 800 858 2955

Large Corporate Accounts East

toll-free: 800 858 2020

Large Corporate Accounts East Government and

Education

toll-free: 800 858 2669

Large Corporate Accounts Queue Team

toll-free: 800 858 2572

Large Corporate Accounts South

toll-free: 800 858 2355

Large Corporate Accounts West

toll-free: 800 858 2811

Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts

toll-free: 800 858 2621

Colombia

General Support

980-9-15-3978

Costa Rica

General Support

0800-012-0435

132

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Czech Republic (Prague)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 420

Technical Support

22537 2727

Customer Care

22537 2707

Fax

22537 2714

Tech Fax

22537 2728

Switchboard

22537 2711

Denmark (Copenhagen)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/dk/da/emaildell/

Country Code: 45

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

7010 0074

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

7023 0182

Customer Care (Relational)

7023 0184

Home/Small Business Customer Care

3287 5505

Switchboard (Relational)

3287 1200

Switchboard Fax (Relational)

3287 1201

Switchboard (Home/Small Business)

3287 5000

Switchboard Fax (Home/Small Business)

3287 5001

Dominica

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6821

Dominican Republic

General Support

1-800-148-0530

Ecuador

General Support

toll-free: 999-119

El Salvador

General Support

01-899-753-0777

Finland (Helsinki)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 990

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fi/fi/emaildell/

Country Code: 358

Technical Support

09 253 313 60

City Code: 9

Customer Care

09 253 313 38

Fax

09 253 313 99

Switchboard

09 253 313 00

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

133

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

France (Paris) (Montpellier)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/

Country Code: 33

Home and Small Business

City Codes: (1) (4)

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0825 387 129

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

0825 387 270

Customer Care

0825 823 833

Switchboard

0825 004 700

Switchboard (calls from outside of France)

04 99 75 40 00

Sales

0825 004 700

Fax

0825 004 701

Fax (calls from outside of France)

04 99 75 40 01

Corporate
Technical Support

0825 004 719

Customer Care

0825 338 339

Switchboard

01 55 94 71 00

Sales

01 55 94 71 00

Fax

01 55 94 71 01

Germany (Langen)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 49

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

06103 766-7222

City Code: 6103

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

06103 766-7200

Home/Small Business Customer Care

134

0180-5-224400

Global Segment Customer Care

06103 766-9570

Preferred Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9420

Large Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9560

Public Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9555

Switchboard

06103 766-7000

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Greece

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/gr/en/emaildell/

Country Code: 30

Technical Support

00800-44 14 95 18

Gold Service Technical Support

00800-44 14 00 83

Switchboard

2108129810

Gold Service Switchboard

2108129811

Sales

2108129800

Fax

2108129812

Grenada

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

Guatemala

General Support

1-800-999-0136

Guyana

General Support

toll-free: 1-877-270-4609

Hong Kong

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 852

Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)

2969 3188

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell

Precision)

2969 3191

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,

PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

2969 3196

Customer Care

3416 0910

Large Corporate Accounts

3416 0907

Global Customer Programs

3416 0908

Medium Business Division

3416 0912

Home and Small Business Division

2969 3105

India

E-mail: [email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
1600338045

Technical Support

and 1600448046
Sales (Large Corporate Accounts)

1600 33 8044

Sales (Home and Small Business)

1600 33 8046

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

135

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Ireland (Cherrywood)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 16

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 353

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

1850 200 722

City Code: 1

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

1850 543 543

U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only)

0870 908 0800

Home User Customer Care

01 204 4014

Small Business Customer Care

01 204 4014

U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)

Corporate Customer Care
Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)
Ireland Sales
U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only)

0870 906 0010

1850 200 982
0870 907 4499
01 204 4444
0870 907 4000

Fax/Sales Fax

01 204 0103

Switchboard

01 204 4444

Italy (Milan)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/it/it/emaildell/

Country Code: 39

Home and Small Business

City Code: 02

Technical Support

02 577 826 90

Customer Care

02 696 821 14

Fax

02 696 821 13

Switchboard

02 696 821 12

Corporate
Technical Support

02 577 826 90

Customer Care

02 577 825 55

Fax

02 575 035 30

Switchboard
Jamaica

136

General Support (dial from within Jamaica only)

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

02 577 821
1-800-682-3639

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Japan (Kawasaki)

Website: support.jp.dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support (servers)

Country Code: 81

Technical Support outside of Japan (servers)

City Code: 44

Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)

Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and
Inspiron)
Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision,
OptiPlex, and Latitude)
Technical Support (PDAs, projectors, printers,
routers)
Technical Support outside of Japan (PDAs,
projectors, printers, routers)

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

toll-free: 0120-198-498
81-44-556-4162
toll-free: 0120-198-226
81-44-520-1435
toll-free:0120-198-433
81-44-556-3894
toll-free: 0120-981-690
81-44-556-3468

Faxbox Service

044-556-3490

24-Hour Automated Order Service

044-556-3801

Customer Care

044-556-4240

Business Sales Division (up to 400 employees)

044-556-1465

Preferred Accounts Division Sales (over 400

employees)

044-556-3433

Large Corporate Accounts Sales (over 3500

employees)

044-556-3430

Public Sales (government agencies, educational

institutions, and medical institutions)

044-556-1469

Global Segment Japan

044-556-3469

Individual User

044-556-1760

Switchboard

044-556-4300

Korea (Seoul)

E-mail: [email protected]

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support

toll-free: 080-200-3800

Country Code: 82

Technical Support (Dimension, PDA, Electronics

and Accessories)

toll-free: 080-200-3801

Sales

toll-free: 080-200-3600

City Code: 2

Fax

2194-6202

Switchboard

2194-6000
Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

137

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Latin America

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas,

U.S.A.)

512 728-4093

Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-3619

Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service)

(Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-3883

Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-4397

SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-4600
or 512 728-3772

Luxembourg

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support

Country Code: 352

Home/Small Business Sales

342 08 08 075
+32 (0)2 713 15 96

Corporate Sales

26 25 77 81

Customer Care

+32 (0)2 481 91 19

Fax

26 25 77 82

Macao

Technical Support

toll-free: 0800 105

Country Code: 853

Customer Service (Xiamen, China)

34 160 910

Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China)

29 693 115

Malaysia (Penang)

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and

Latitude)

toll-free: 1 800 880 193

Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and

Electronics and Accessories)

toll-free: 1 800 881 306

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,

PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 881 386

Customer Care

toll-free: 1800 881 306

(option 6)

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 202

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 213

Country Code: 60
City Code: 4

138

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Mexico

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Customer Technical Support

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 52

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383

Sales

50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355

Customer Service

001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383

Main

50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355

Montserrat

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6822

Netherlands Antilles

General Support

001-800-882-1519

Netherlands (Amsterdam)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

020 674 45 94

Country Code: 31

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

020 674 45 00

City Code: 20

Technical Support Fax

020 674 47 66

Home/Small Business Customer Care

020 674 42 00

Relational Customer Care

020 674 4325

Home/Small Business Sales

020 674 55 00

Relational Sales

020 674 50 00

Home/Small Business Sales Fax

020 674 47 75

Relational Sales Fax

020 674 47 50

Switchboard

020 674 50 00

Switchboard Fax

020 674 47 50

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

139

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

New Zealand

E-mail (New Zealand): [email protected]

International Access Code: 00

E-mail Customer Care (Australia and

New Zealand): [email protected]

Country Code: 64

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Customer Care

toll-free: 0800-289-335
(option 3)

Technical Support (for desktop and portable

computers)

toll-free: 0800 446 255

Technical Support (for servers and workstations)

toll-free: 0800 443 563

Home and Small Business

0800 446 255

Government and Business

0800 444 617

Sales

0800 441 567

Fax

0800 441 566

Nicaragua

General Support

Norway (Lysaker)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/no/no/emaildell/

Country Code: 47

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

815 35 043

Technical Support for all other Dell products

671 16882

Relational Customer Care

671 17575

Home/Small Business Customer Care

23162298

Switchboard

671 16800

Fax Switchboard

671 16865

Panama

General Support

001-800-507-0962

Peru

General Support

0800-50-669

Poland (Warsaw)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 011

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 48

Customer Service Phone

57 95 700

City Code: 22

Customer Care

57 95 999

Sales

57 95 999

Customer Service Fax

57 95 806

Reception Desk Fax

57 95 998

Switchboard

57 95 999

140

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

001-800-220-1006

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Portugal

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/pt/en/emaildell/

Country Code: 351

Technical Support

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

707200149

Customer Care
Sales

800 300 413

800 300 410 or 800 300 411 or
800 300 412 or 21 422 07 10

Fax

21 424 01 12

Puerto Rico

General Support

1-800-805-7545

St. Kitts and Nevis

General Support

toll-free: 1-877-441-4731

St. Lucia

General Support

1-800-882-1521

St. Vincent and the Grenadines General Support

toll-free: 1-877-270-4609

Singapore (Singapore)

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 005

Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and

Electronics and Accessories)

toll-free: 1800 394 7430

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell

Precision)

toll-free: 1800 394 7488

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,

PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 394 7478

Country Code: 65

Customer Care

toll-free: 1 800 394 7430

(option 6)

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1 800 394 7412

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1 800 394 7419

Slovakia (Prague)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 421

Technical Support
Customer Care

02 5441 5727
420 22537 2707

Fax

02 5441 8328

Tech Fax

02 5441 8328

Switchboard (Sales)

02 5441 7585

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

141

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

South Africa (Johannesburg)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code:

E-mail: [email protected]

09/091

Gold Queue

011 709 7713

Country Code: 27

Technical Support

011 709 7710

City Code: 11

Customer Care

011 709 7707

Sales

011 709 7700

Fax

011 706 0495

Switchboard

011 709 7700

Southeast Asian and Pacific

Countries

Customer Technical Support, Customer Service,

and Sales (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4810

Spain (Madrid)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/es/es/emaildell/

Country Code: 34

Home and Small Business

City Code: 91

Technical Support

902 100 130

Customer Care

902 118 540

Sales

902 118 541

Switchboard

902 118 541

Fax

902 118 539

Corporate

142

Technical Support

902 100 130

Customer Care

902 115 236

Switchboard

91 722 92 00

Fax

91 722 95 83

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Sweden (Upplands Vasby)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/se/sv/emaildell/

Country Code: 46

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0771 340 340

City Code: 8

Technical Support for all other Dell products

08 590 05 199

Relational Customer Care

08 590 05 642

Home/Small Business Customer Care

08 587 70 527

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support

Technical Support Fax

08 590 05 594

Sales

08 590 05 185

Switzerland (Geneva)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 41

E-mail for French-speaking HSB and Corporate

Customers: support.euro.dell.com/ch/fr/emaildell/

City Code: 22

20 140 14 44

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0848 33 88 57

Technical Support (Home and Small Business) for

all other Dell products

0844 811 411

Technical Support (Corporate)

0844 822 844

Customer Care (Home and Small Business)

0848 802 202

Customer Care (Corporate)

0848 821 721

Fax

022 799 01 90

Switchboard

022 799 01 01

Taiwan

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 002

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 886

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, Inspiron,

Dimension, and Electronics and Accessories)

toll-free: 00801 86 1011

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,

PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 00801 60 1256

Customer Care

toll-free: 00801 60 1250

(option 5)

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 00801 65 1228

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 00801 651 227

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

143

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Thailand

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell

Precision)

toll-free: 1800 0060 07

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,

PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 0600 09

Customer Care

toll-free: 1800 006 007

(option 7)

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1800 006 009

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1800 006 006

Trinidad/Tobago

General Support

1-800-805-8035

Turks and Caicos Islands

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

U.K. (Bracknell)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 44

Customer Care website:

support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/Form/Home.asp

City Code: 1344

E-mail: [email protected]

Country Code: 66

Uruguay

144

Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred

Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees])

0870 908 0500

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0870 366 4180

Technical Support (direct and general) for all other

products

0870 908 0800

Global Accounts Customer Care

01344 373 186

Home and Small Business Customer Care

0870 906 0010

Corporate Customer Care

01344 373 185

Preferred Accounts (5005000 employees)

Customer Care

0870 906 0010

Central Government Customer Care

01344 373 193

Local Government & Education Customer Care

01344 373 199

Health Customer Care

01344 373 194

Home and Small Business Sales

0870 907 4000

Corporate/Public Sector Sales

01344 860 456

Home and Small Business Fax

0870 907 4006

General Support

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

toll-free: 000-413-598-2521

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,

Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

U.S.A. (Austin, Texas)

Automated Order-Status Service

toll-free: 1-800-433-9014

International Access Code: 011

AutoTech (portable and desktop computers)

toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

Country Code: 1

Technical Support (Dell TV, Printers, and

Projectors) for Relationship customers

toll-free 1-877-459-7298

Consumer (Home and Home Office) Technical

Support for all other Dell products

toll-free: 1-800-624-9896

Customer Service

toll-free: 1-800-624-9897

DellNet Service and Support

toll-free: 1-877-Dellnet
(1-877-335-5638)

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers

toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Financial Services website:

www.dellfinancialservices.com
Financial Services (lease/loans)

toll-free: 1-877-577-3355

Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA])

toll-free: 1-800-283-2210

Business
Customer Service and Technical Support

toll-free: 1-800-456-3355

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers

toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Printers and Projectors Technical Support

toll-free: 1-877-459-7298

Public (government, education, and healthcare)

Customer Service and Technical Support

toll-free: 1-800-456-3355

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers

toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Dell Sales

toll-free: 1-800-289-3355
or toll-free: 1-800-879-3355

Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers)

toll-free: 1-888-798-7561

Software and Peripherals Sales

toll-free: 1-800-671-3355

Spare Parts Sales

toll-free: 1-800-357-3355

Extended Service and Warranty Sales

toll-free: 1-800-247-4618

Fax

toll-free: 1-800-727-8320

Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or

Speech-Impaired

toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY
(1-877-335-5889)

U.S. Virgin Islands

General Support

1-877-673-3355

Venezuela

General Support

8001-3605

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

145

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

146

Appendix

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Index
A
audio. See sound

CDs
copying, 18
playing, 16
Check Disk, 39

B
battery
problems, 37
replacing, 109
BIOS, 115
boot sequence
about, 121
changing, 121-122
option settings, 121
booting
to a USB device, 121

C
cards
installing PCI Express, 82
PCI Express, 81
removing PCI, 80
removing PCI Express, 87
slots, 68
CD/DVD drive
activity light, 65
eject button, 65
problems, 38
CD-RW drive
problems, 39

CMOS settings
clearing, 124
computer
components inside, 70
crashes, 43-44
inside view, 70
restore to previous state, 60
stops responding, 43
connectors
center/LFE, 67
headphone, 66
IEEE 1394, 66
line-in, 67
line-out, 67
microphone, 66-67
network adapter, 68
power, 67
sound, 67
surround, 67
USB, 66, 68
copying CDs and DVDs, 18
cover
replacing, 110

D
Dell
Dell Diagnostics, 56
support policy, 125
support site, 11
Dell Premier Support
website, 9, 11
diagnostic lights, 53
diagnostics
Dell, 56
lights, 53, 66
documentation
online, 11
Product Information Guide, 9
Setup Diagram, 9
drive panel, 66, 90
removing, 90
replacing, 93
drive-panel insert
removing, 91
replacing, 92
drivers
about, 57
identifying, 58
drives
problems, 38
RAID, 28
DVD drive
problems, 38

Index

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

147

48

Index

DVDs
copying, 18
playing, 16

E
e-mail
problems, 39
error messages
diagnostic lights, 53
troubleshooting, 41

F
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 28
Finding Information, 9
Flex Bay drive
Media Card Reader, 65

Help and Support Center, 12

hibernate mode, 25, 27
Hyper-Threading, 28

I
IEEE 1394
connector, 66
installing parts
before you begin, 63
recommended tools, 63
turning off your computer, 63
Internet
connection, about, 14
connection, options, 14
connection, setting up, 15
problems, 39

M
Media Card Reader
installing, 101, 104
problems, 42
removing, 101-102
using, 20
memory
problems, 45
messages
error, 41
microphone
connector, 66-67
Microsoft Windows label, 10

keyboard
problems, 42

hard drive
activity light, 66
problems, 39

hardware
Dell Diagnostics, 56
drives, RAID configuration, 28

labels
Microsoft Windows, 10
Service Tag, 10, 66

Hardware Troubleshooter, 59

latch release
cover, 65

headphone
connector, 66

lights
diagnostic, 53, 66
front of computer, 53
hard drive activity, 66

modem
problems, 39
monitor
blank, 50
clone mode, 23
connect DVI, 21-22
connect TV, 21, 23
connect two, 21-22
connect VGA, 21-22
display settings, 23
extended desktop mode, 23
hard to read, 51
motherboard. See system
board
mouse
problems, 45

148

Index

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

N
network
connector, 68
Network Setup Wizard, 24
problems, 46
setting up, 24
Network Setup Wizard, 24

O
operating system
reinstalling Windows XP, 60

P
password
clearing, 123
jumper, 123
PCI cards
removing, 80
PCI Express cards
installing, 82
removing, 87
playing CDs and DVDs, 16
power
button, 66
connector, 67
conserving, 25
hibernate mode, 25, 27
managing, 25
options, 26
options, advanced, 27
options, hibernate, 27

power (continued)
options, schemes, 26
problems, 47
standby mode, 25
power light
conditions, 47
Power Options Properties, 26
printer
cable, 13
connecting, 13
problems, 48
setting up, 13
USB, 14
problems
battery, 37
blue screen, 44
CD drive, 38
CD-RW drive, 39
computer crashes, 43-44
computer stops responding, 43
Dell Diagnostics, 56
diagnostic lights, 53
drives, 38
DVD drive, 38
e-mail, 39
error messages, 41
general, 43
hard drive, 39
Internet, 39
keyboard, 42
Media Card Reader, 42
memory, 45
modem, 39
monitor is blank, 50
monitor is hard to read, 51
mouse, 45

problems (continued)
network, 46
power, 47
power light conditions, 47
printer, 48
program crashes, 43
program stops responding, 43
programs and Windows
compatibility, 44
restore to previous state, 59-60
scanner, 48
screen is blank, 50
screen is hard to read, 51
software, 43-44
sound and speakers, 49
technical support policy, 125
troubleshooting tips, 37
volume adjusting, 49
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 44

R
RAID
configuring, 28
reinstalling
Windows XP, 60

S
safety instructions, 9
scanner
problems, 48
Service Tag, 10, 66
settings
system setup, 115

Index

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

149

50

Index

Setup Diagram, 9

System Restore, 59-60

software
Hyper-Threading, 28
problems, 43-44

system setup
about, 115
entering, 116
options, 118
screens, 116

vents, 66
front panel, 66

sound
problems, 49
volume, 49
sound connectors, 67
speaker
problems, 49
volume, 49
specifications
audio, 111
computer information, 111
connectors, 113
controls and lights, 114
drives, 113
environmental, 115
expansion bus, 112
memory, 111
physical, 114
power, 114
processor, 111
technical, 111
video, 111
standby mode, 25
support
policy, 125
system board, 71

150

Index

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

T
technical support
policy, 125
transferring information to a
new computer, 28
troubleshooting
Dell Diagnostics, 56
diagnostic lights, 53
Hardware Troubleshooter, 59
Help and Support Center, 12
restore to previous state, 59-60
tips, 37
TV
connect to computer, 21, 23

U
USB
booting to devices, 121
connectors, 66, 68

volume
adjusting, 49

W
warranty, 9
Windows XP
Device Driver Rollback, 58
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 28
Hardware Troubleshooter, 59
Help and Support Center, 12
Hyper-Threading, 28
Network Setup Wizard, 24
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 44
reinstalling, 60
scanner, 49
System Restore, 59-60
wizards
Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard, 28
Network Setup Wizard, 24
Program Compatibility
Wizard, 44