DELL VOSTRO A840 User Manual

Vostro™ | A840/A860  
Setup and  
Quick Reference Guide  
Contents  
Contents  
About Your Computer .  
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7
7
Transferring Information to  
a New Computer .  
Specifications  
Troubleshooting  
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19  
Front View.  
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Right View.  
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33  
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Error Messages.  
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Left View  
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12  
15  
17  
System Messages  
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40  
Battery Removal .  
Quick Setup .  
Troubleshooting Software  
and Hardware Problems .  
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41  
42  
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Dell Diagnostics  
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Connecting to the Internet  
Troubleshooting Tips .  
Power Problems  
Memory Problems  
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44  
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46  
Setting Up Your Internet  
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Connection .  
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17  
3
Contents  
Lockups and Software  
Problems .  
Dell Technical Update Service .  
Finding Information .  
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63  
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47  
49  
Getting Help .  
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Dell Support Center  
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49  
Obtaining Assistance.  
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Technical Support and Customer  
Reinstalling Software  
. 51  
Service  
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64  
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Online Services .  
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Drivers .  
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51  
AutoTech Service .  
Identifying Drivers  
51  
Automated Order-Status  
Service  
Reinstalling Drivers and  
Utilities .  
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51  
Problems With Your Order .  
Product Information .  
Restoring Your Operating System  
54  
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Using Microsoft Windows  
System Restore .  
Using the Operating System  
Media .  
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54  
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Returning Items for Warranty  
Repair or Credit .  
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4
Contents  
Before You Call .  
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67  
69  
Contacting Dell .  
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71  
5
Contents  
6
About Your Computer  
About Your Computer  
DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS  
Front View  
The lights located on the palm rest towards the  
front of the computer indicate the following:  
Power light – Turns on when you turn  
on the computer, and blinks when  
the computer is in a power  
management mode.  
Hard drive activity light – Turns on when  
the computer reads or writes data.  
1
NOTICE: To avoid loss of data,  
never turn off the computer while  
the  
light is flashing.  
3
2
Battery status light – Turns on  
steadily or blinks to indicate battery  
charge status.  
1
3
device status lights  
touch pad  
2
audio connectors  
Wi-Fi status light – Turns on when  
wireless networking is enabled.  
7
     
About Your Computer  
AUDIO CONNECTORS  
Right View  
Attach headphones to the  
Attach a microphone to the  
connector  
connector  
1
2
TOUCH PAD Provides the functionality of  
a mouse.  
3
4
5
6
7
8
1
3
display  
2
keyboard status lights  
modem connector  
AC adapter  
connector  
4
5
7
keyboard  
6
8
optical drive eject button  
optical drive  
optical drive light  
8
     
About Your Computer  
CAUTION: The AC adapter works with  
DISPLAY For more information on the display,  
electrical outlets worldwide. However,  
power connectors and power strips vary  
among countries. Using an incompatible  
cable or improperly connecting the cable  
to the power strip or electrical outlet may  
cause fire or equipment damage.  
see Dell Technology Guide.  
KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS —  
The lights located above the keyboard indicate the  
following:  
NOTE: Plug the power cord and the adapter  
Turns on when the numeric keypad  
firmly in, and ensure that the light is on.  
is enabled.  
MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11)  
Turns on when the uppercase letter  
A
Connects the telephone line  
to the modem connector.  
(caps lock) function is enabled.  
For information on using the  
modem, see the online  
Turns on when the scroll lock  
function is enabled.  
modem documentation  
supplied with your computer.  
AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR Attaches an  
AC adapter to the computer. The AC adapter  
converts AC power to the DC power required by the  
computer. You can connect the AC adapter with  
your computer turned on or off.  
KEYBOARD For more information on the  
keyboard, see Dell Technology Guide.  
OPTICAL DRIVE For more information about  
the optical drive, see Dell Technology Guide.  
9
 
About Your Computer  
PC CARD SLOT Supports one PC Card, such  
as a modem or network adapter. The computer  
ships with a blank installed in the slot to prevent  
foreign matter from entering the computer interior  
when a card is not installed.  
Left View  
3-IN-1 MEDIA CARD READER Provides  
a fast and convenient way to view and share digital  
photos, music, videos, and documents stored on the  
following digital memory cards:  
Secure digital (SD) memory card  
Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) card  
Multimedia card (MMC)  
1
2
3
4
5
6
IEEE 1394A CONNECTOR Connects  
devices supporting IEEE 1394a high-speed transfer  
rates, such as some digital video cameras.  
7
8
USB CONNECTORS  
1
3
PC card slot  
2
3-in-1 card reader slot  
USB connectors (2)  
IEEE 1394a  
connector  
4
Connect USB devices, such  
as a mouse, keyboard, or  
printer, and so on.  
5
7
network connector  
security cable slot  
6
8
VGA connector  
air vents  
10  
     
About Your Computer  
NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)  
Connects the computer to a  
AIR VENTS The computer uses an internal  
fan to create airflow through the vents,  
which prevents the computer from overheating.  
The fan automatically turns on when the  
computer gets hot.  
network. The two lights next to  
the connector indicate status  
and activity for wired network  
connections.  
For information on using the  
network adapter, see the  
device user’s guide supplied  
with your computer.  
VGA CONNECTOR  
Connects video devices, such  
as a monitor.  
SECURITY CABLE SLOT Lets you attach  
a commercially available antitheft device to  
the computer.  
11  
   
About Your Computer  
CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or  
designed to work with your Dell™ computer.  
Do not use a battery from other computers  
with your computer.  
allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do  
not store your Dell™ computer in  
a low-airflow environment, such as a closed  
briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the  
airflow can damage the computer or cause  
a fire.The computer turns on the fan when  
the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal  
and does not indicate a problem with the fan  
or the computer.  
CAUTION: Before removing or replacing the  
battery, turn off the computer, disconnect the  
AC adapter from the electrical outlet and the  
computer, disconnect the modem from the  
wall connector and computer, and remove  
any other external cables from the computer.  
Battery Removal  
CAUTION: Before working inside your  
computer, read the safety information that  
shipped with your computer. For additional  
safety best practices information, see the  
Regulatory Compliance Homepage at  
CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery  
may increase the risk of fire or explosion.  
Replace the battery only with a compatible  
battery purchased from Dell. The battery is  
12  
   
About Your Computer  
To remove the battery:  
1
1
2
Ensure that the computer is turned off.  
Slide the two release latches on the bottom  
of the computer, and then remove the battery  
from the bay.  
2
To replace the battery, slide the battery into the bay  
until it clicks into place.  
1
battery  
2
battery release latches (2)  
13  
About Your Computer  
14  
Quick Setup  
Quick Setup  
CAUTION: Before working inside your  
NOTICE: When you disconnect the  
computer, read the safety information that  
shipped with your computer. For additional  
safety best practices information, see the  
Regulatory Compliance Homepage at  
AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp  
the connector, not the cable itself, and pull  
firmly but gently to avoid damaging the  
cable. When you wrap the AC adapter cable,  
ensure that you follow the angle of the  
connector on the AC adapter to avoid  
damaging the cable.  
CAUTION: The AC adapter works with  
electrical outlets worldwide. However, power  
connectors and power strips vary among  
countries. Using an incompatible cable or  
improperly connecting the cable to the power  
strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or  
equipment damage.  
NOTE: Some devices may not be included if  
you did not order them.  
15  
   
Quick Setup  
1 Connect the AC adapter to the AC adapter  
3
Connect USB devices, such as a mouse  
or keyboard.  
connector on the computer and to the  
electrical outlet.  
2
Connect the network cable.  
16  
     
Quick Setup  
4
Open the computer display and press the  
power button to turn on the computer.  
Connecting to the Internet  
NOTE: Internet Service Provider(s) (ISP) and  
ISP offerings vary by country.  
To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or  
network connection and an ISP. If you are using  
a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to  
the modem connector on your computer and to the  
telephone wall connector before you set up your  
Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable/  
satellite modem connection, contact your ISP or  
cellular phone service for setup instructions.  
Setting Up Your Internet Connection  
NOTE: The instructions in this section are for  
computers with Windows Vista® operating  
system only.  
NOTE: It is recommended that you turn on  
and shut down your computer at least once  
before you install any cards or connect the  
computer to a docking device or other  
external device, such as a printer.  
5
Connect to the Internet. See "Connecting to  
the Internet" on page 17 for more information.  
17  
       
Quick Setup  
Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating  
System  
To set up an Internet connection with a desktop  
shortcut provided by your ISP:  
1
2
3
Save and close any open files, and exit any  
open programs.  
Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft®  
Windows® desktop.  
1
2
3
4
Save and close any open files, and exit any  
open programs.  
Click the Windows Vista Start button  
Control Panel  
Follow the instructions on the screen to  
complete the setup.  
Under Network and Internet, click Connect  
to the Internet.  
In the Connect to the Internet window, click  
either Broadband (PPPoE) or Dial-up,  
depending on how you want to connect:  
If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop  
or if you want to set up an Internet connection  
with a different ISP, perform the steps in the  
section below.  
Choose Broadband if you will use  
a DSL, satellite modem, cable TV  
modem, or Bluetooth wireless  
technology connection.  
NOTE: If you cannot connect to the Internet,  
see the Dell Technology Guide. If you 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.  
Choose Dial-up if you will use a dial-up  
modem or ISDN.  
NOTE: If you do not know which type of  
connection to select, click Help me choose  
or contact your ISP.  
NOTE: Have your ISP information ready.  
If you do not have an ISP, consult the  
Connect to the Internet wizard.  
18  
Quick Setup  
5
Follow the instructions on the screen and  
use the setup information provided by your  
ISP to complete the setup.  
Transferring Information to a New  
Computer  
NOTE: The instructions in this section are for  
computers with Windows Vista operating  
system installed.  
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button  
,
and then click Transfer files and settings→  
Start Windows Easy Transfer.  
2
3
4
In the User Account Control dialog box, click  
Continue.  
Click Start a new transfer or Continue  
a transfer in progress.  
Follow the instructions provided on the  
screen by the Windows Easy Transfer  
wizard.  
19  
 
Quick Setup  
20  
Specifications  
Specifications  
NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For  
more information regarding the configuration  
of your computer, click StartHelp and  
Support and select the option to view  
information about your computer.  
Processor  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Processor type Intel® Core™2 Duo  
Intel® Core™2 Duo  
Intel® Pentium™ Dual-Core  
Intel® Celeron® Dual and Single Core  
32 KB per instruction, 32 KB data cache 32 KB per instruction, 32 KB data cache per  
Intel® Pentium™ Dual-Core  
Intel® Celeron® Dual and Single Core  
L1 cache  
L2 cache  
per core  
core  
512 KB, 1 MB, 2 MB or 4 MB per core  
depending on model  
512 KB, 1 MB, 2 MB or 4 MB per core  
depending on model  
External bus  
frequency  
667 and 800 MHz  
667 and 800 MHz  
21  
     
Specifications  
System Information Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Chipset  
Intel GM965 Express/ICH8M  
Intel GM965 Express/ICH8M  
64 bits  
Data bus width  
DRAM bus width  
64 bits  
dual-channel (2) 64-bit buses  
dual-channel (2) 64-bit buses  
36 bits  
Processor address 36 bits  
bus width  
Flash EPROM  
Graphics bus  
PCI bus  
2 MB  
2 MB  
internal  
32 bits  
internal  
32 bits  
Memory  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Memory module connector two user-accessible SODIMM sockets two user-accessible SODIMM sockets  
Memory module capacities 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB  
4-GB capable  
512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB  
4-GB capable  
Memory type  
DDR2 SODIMM  
DDR2 SODIMM  
22  
   
Specifications  
Memory (continued)  
Minimum memory  
Maximum memory  
Vostro A840  
512 MB  
4 GB  
Vostro A860  
512 MB  
4 GB  
Ports and  
Connectors  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Audio  
microphone connector, stereo  
headphone/speakers connector  
microphone connector, stereo headphone/  
speakers connector  
Mini-Card  
Modem  
one PCI-E Mini-Card slot  
RJ-11 port  
one PCI-E Mini-Card slot  
RJ-11 port  
Network adapter  
USB  
RJ-45 port  
RJ-45 port  
two 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors two 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors  
Video  
15-hole connector  
4-pin mini  
15-hole connector  
4-pin mini  
IEEE 1394  
23  
 
Specifications  
3-in-1 Media Card Reader  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
3-in-1 media memory card  
controller  
Ricoh 5C847  
Ricoh R5C847  
3-in-1 media memory card  
connector  
3-in-1 combo card connector 3-in-1 combo card connector  
Cards supported  
SD/SDIO/MMC  
SD/SDIO/MMC  
Communications Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Modem:  
Type  
v.92 Data/Fax MDC Modem  
v.92 Data/Fax MDC Modem  
softmodem  
Controller  
Interface  
softmodem  
HDA Bus  
HDA Bus  
Network adapter 10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board  
10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board  
Wireless  
internal WLAN and Bluetooth® wireless internal WLAN and Bluetooth® wireless  
support (if optional cards are purchased) support (if optional cards are purchased)  
24  
 
Specifications  
Video  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Video type:  
integrated on system board, hardware  
accelerated  
integrated on system board, hardware  
accelerated  
Data bus  
integrated video  
integrated video  
Intel Extreme Graphics  
up to 128 MB  
Video controller Intel Extreme Graphics  
Video memory  
up to 128 MB  
Audio  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Audio type  
two-channel high definition  
audio (Azalia)  
two-channel high definition  
audio (Azalia)  
Audio controller  
Conexant CX20561-12Z  
Conexant CX20561-12Z  
Stereo conversion  
24-bit (analog-to-digital and  
digital-to-analog)  
24-bit (analog-to-digital and  
digital-to-analog)  
Interfaces:  
Internal  
high-definition audio (Azalia) codec  
high-definition audio (Azalia) codec  
External  
microphone-in connector, stereo  
headphones/speakers connector  
microphone-in connector, stereo  
headphones/speakers connector  
25  
   
Specifications  
Audio (continued)  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Speaker  
one 4-ohm speaker  
one 4-ohm speaker  
2-W channel into 4 ohms  
program menus  
Internal speaker amplifier 2-W channel into 4 ohms  
Volume controls  
program menus  
Display  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Type (active-matrix TFT) WXGA  
HD  
Active area (X/Y)  
Dimensions:  
Height  
303.36 x 189.6  
344.23 x 193.53  
206 mm (8.11 inches)  
320 mm (12.6 inches)  
358.14 mm (14.1 inches)  
0° (closed) to 165°  
209.5 mm (8.24 inches)  
359.3 mm (14.14 inches)  
396.24 mm (15.6 inches)  
0° (closed) to 165°  
Width  
Diagonal  
Operating angle  
26  
 
Specifications  
Display (continued)  
Viewing angles:  
WXGA Horizontal  
WXGA Vertical  
Pixel pitch:  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
40/40°  
15/30°  
40/40°  
15/30°  
HD  
0.2373  
0.255  
Power Consumption  
(
panel with backlight)  
(typical):  
WXGA  
6.2 W (max) with no inverter losses 6.5 W (max) with no inverter losses  
Keyboard  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Number of keys  
86 (U.S. and Canada); 87 (Europe); 90  
(Japan)  
86 (U.S. and Canada); 87 (Europe); 90  
(Japan)  
Layout  
QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji  
QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji  
27  
 
Specifications  
Touch Pad  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
X/Y position resolution 240 cpi  
(graphics table mode)  
240 cpi  
Size:  
Width  
Height  
73.0-mm (2.9-inch) sensor-active area)  
73.0-mm (2.9-inch) sensor-active area)  
42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle)  
42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle)  
Battery  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Type  
6-cell “smart” lithium ion  
4-cell “smart” lithium ion  
6-cell “smart” lithium ion  
4-cell “smart” lithium ion  
Dimensions:  
Depth  
53.4 mm (2.10 inches)  
20 mm (0.78 inch)  
206.2 mm (8.12 inches)  
0.31 kg (0.68 lb)  
53.4 mm (2.10 inches)  
20 mm (0.78 inch)  
206.2 mm (8.12 inches)  
0.35 kg (0.68 lb)  
Height  
Width  
Weight  
0.23 kg (0.5 lb)  
0.23 kg (0.5 lb)  
28  
   
Specifications  
Battery (continued)  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Voltage  
11.1 VDC (6-cell)  
11.1 VDC (6-cell)  
14.8 VDC (4-cell)  
14.8 VDC (4-cell)  
Charge time  
4 hours (when computer is off)  
4 hours (when computer is off)  
(approximate):  
Operating time  
Battery operating time varies depending Battery operating time varies depending  
on operating conditions and can be  
significantly reduced under certain  
power-intensive conditions. See Dell  
Technology Guide for more information.  
on operating conditions and can be  
significantly reduced under certain  
power-intensive conditions. See Dell  
Technology Guide for more information.  
Life span  
300 charge/discharge cycles  
300 charge/discharge cycles  
(approximate)  
Temperature range:  
Operating  
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)  
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)  
CR-2032  
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)  
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)  
CR-2032  
Storage  
Coin-cell battery  
29  
Specifications  
AC Adapter  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
100–240 VAC  
1.5 A  
Input voltage  
100–240 VAC  
Input current (maximum) 1.5 A  
Input frequency  
Output current  
50–60 Hz  
50–60 Hz  
4.34 A (maximum at 4-second pulse);  
3.34 A (continuous)  
4.34 A (maximum at 4-second pulse);  
3.34 A (continuous)  
Output power  
Rated output voltage  
Dimensions:  
Height  
65 W  
65 W  
19.5 +/–1.0 VDC  
19.5 +/–1.0 VDC  
28.2 mm (1.11 inches)  
57.9 mm (2.28 inches)  
137.2 mm (5.4 inches)  
0.4 kg (0.9 lb)  
28.2 mm (1.11 inches)  
57.9 mm (2.28 inches)  
137.2 mm (5.4 inches)  
0.4 kg (0.9 lb)  
Width  
Depth  
Weight (with cables)  
30  
 
Specifications  
AC Adapter (continued) Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Temperature range:  
Operating  
Storage  
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)  
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)  
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)  
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)  
Physical  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
Height  
Width  
Depth  
31.1mm to 35.6 mm (1.2 to 1.4 inches)  
340 mm (13.39 inches)  
250 mm (9.85 inches)  
31.5 to 36.8 mm (1.24 to 1.44 inches)  
376 mm (14.8 inches)  
255 mm (10.03 inches)  
2.46 kg (5.42 lb)  
Weight (with 4-cell battery) 2.03 kg (4.47 lb)  
Weight (with 6-cell battery) 2.11 kg (4.65 lb)  
2.54 kg (5.59)  
Environmental  
Temperature range:  
Operating  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)  
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)  
Storage  
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)  
31  
   
Specifications  
Environmental (continued)  
Relative humidity (maximum):  
Operating  
Vostro A840  
Vostro A860  
10% to 90% (noncondensing) 10% to 90% (noncondensing)  
5% to 95% (noncondensing) 5% to 95% (noncondensing)  
Storage  
Maximum vibration (using a random-vibration  
spectrum that simulates user environment):  
Operating  
Storage  
0.66 GRMS  
1.3 GRMS  
0.66 GRMS  
1.3 GRMS  
110 G  
Maximum shock (measured with hard drive in  
head-parked position and a 2-ms half-sine pulse):  
Operating  
110 G  
163 G  
110 G  
163 G  
Storage  
Airborne containment level  
G2 or lower as defined by  
ISA-S71.04-1985  
G2 or lower as defined by  
ISA-S71.04-1985  
32  
Troubleshooting  
Troubleshooting  
CAUTION: To guard against the likelihood  
of electric shock, laceration by moving fan  
blades, or other expected injuries, always  
unplug your computer from the electrical  
outlet before opening the cover.  
setup program. See your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com for more information. If the  
problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell"  
on page 69).  
CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE The  
primary cache internal to the microprocessor has  
failed. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on  
page 69).  
CAUTION: Before working inside your  
computer, read the safety information that  
shipped with your computer. For additional  
safety best practices information, see the  
Regulatory Compliance Homepage at  
OPTICAL DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE —  
The optical drive does not respond to commands  
from the computer.  
Error Messages  
DATA ERROR The hard drive cannot read  
the data.  
If the message is not listed, see the documentation  
for the operating system or the program that was  
running when the message appeared.  
DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY One  
or more memory modules may be faulty or  
improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules  
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service  
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.  
AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE The touch  
pad or external mouse may be faulty. For an  
external mouse, check the cable connection.  
Enable the Pointing Device option in the system  
33  
       
Troubleshooting  
DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION The  
hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive  
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics"  
on page 42).  
THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR  
THE DESTINATION DRIVE The file that you  
are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk, or  
the disk is full. Try copying the file to a different disk  
or use a larger capacity disk.  
DRIVE NOT READY The operation requires a  
hard drive in the bay before it can continue. Install a  
hard drive in the hard drive bay. See your Service  
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.  
A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF  
THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ <  
> | — Do not use these characters in filenames.  
ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD The  
computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert  
the card or try another card. See your Service  
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.  
GATE A20 FAILURE A memory module may  
be loose. Reinstall the memory modules and, if  
necessary, replace them. See your Service Manual  
at support.dell.com for more information.  
EXTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS  
GENERAL FAILURE The operating system is  
unable to carry out the command. The message is  
usually followed by specific information—for  
example, Printer out of paper.Take the  
appropriate action.  
CHANGED The amount of memory recorded in  
nonvolatile memory (NVRAM) does not match the  
memory installed in the computer. Restart the  
computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell  
(see "Contacting Dell" on page 69).  
34  
Troubleshooting  
HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE The hard  
drive does not respond to commands from the  
computer. Shut down the computer, remove the  
hard drive (see your Service Manual at  
HARD-DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION  
ERROR The computer cannot identify the drive  
type. Shut down the computer, remove the hard  
drive (see your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com), and boot the computer from the  
media. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the  
hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem  
persists, try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive  
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics"  
on page 42).  
support.dell.com), and boot the computer from the  
media. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the  
hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard  
Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell  
Diagnostics" on page 42).  
HARD-DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0 —  
HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE The  
hard drive may be defective. Shut down the  
computer, remove the hard drive (see your Service  
Manual at support.dell.com), and boot the computer  
using the media. Then, shut down the computer,  
reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer.  
If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the  
Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see  
"Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).  
The hard drive does not respond to commands from  
the computer. Shut down the computer, remove the  
hard drive (see your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com), and boot the computer from the  
media. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the  
hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem  
persists, try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive  
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics"  
on page 42).  
INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA The operating  
system is trying to boot to nonbootable media. Insert  
bootable media.  
35  
Troubleshooting  
INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-  
KEYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE For  
external keyboards or keypads, check the cable  
connection. Restart the computer, and avoid  
touching the keyboard or keys during the boot  
routine. Run the Stuck Key test in the Dell  
Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).  
PLEASE RUN SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM —  
The system configuration information does not  
match the hardware configuration. The message is  
most likely to occur after a memory module is  
installed. Correct the appropriate options in the  
system setup program. See your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com for more information.  
MEMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT  
ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING  
VALUE A memory module may be faulty or  
improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules  
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service  
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.  
KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE For  
external keyboards, check the cable connection.  
Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell  
Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).  
MEMORY ALLOCATION ERROR The  
software you are attempting to run is conflicting  
with the operating system, another program, or a  
utility. Shut down the computer, wait 30 seconds,  
and then restart it. Try to run the program again.  
If the error message still appears, see the software  
documentation.  
KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE For  
external keyboards, check the cable connection.  
Restart the computer, and avoid touching the  
keyboard or the mouse during the boot routine. Run  
the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics  
(see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).  
KEYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE For  
external keyboards, check the cable connection.  
Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell  
Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42).  
36  
Troubleshooting  
MEMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT  
MEMORY DATA LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS,  
READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE A  
memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.  
Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,  
replace them. See your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com for more information.  
ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING  
VALUE A memory module may be faulty or  
improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules  
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service  
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.  
MEMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC FAILURE AT  
ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING  
NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE The  
computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard  
drive is your boot device, ensure that the drive is  
installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot  
device.  
VALUE A memory module may be faulty or  
improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules  
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service  
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.  
NO BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE The  
operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell  
MEMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT  
ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING  
(
see "Contacting Dell" on page 69).  
VALUE A memory module may be faulty or  
improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules  
and, if necessary, replace them. See your Service  
Manual at support.dell.com for more information.  
NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT A chip on the  
system board may be malfunctioning. Run the  
System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell  
Diagnostics" on page 42).  
37  
Troubleshooting  
3
4
Click Uninstall.  
NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES.  
EXIT SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY  
AGAIN You have too many programs open.  
Close all windows and open the program that you  
want to use.  
See the program documentation for  
installation instructions and reinstall the  
program.  
SECTOR NOT FOUND The operating system  
cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may  
have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the  
hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility  
to check the file structure on the hard drive.  
OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND —  
Reinstall the hard drive (see your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com). If the problem persists, contact  
Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69).  
See Windows Help and Support for instructions  
OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM The  
optional ROM has failed. Contact Dell (see  
"Contacting Dell" on page 69).  
(click Start  
Help and Support). If a large number  
of sectors are defective, back up the data (if  
possible), and then reformat the hard drive.  
A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT  
FOUND The program that you are trying to  
open is missing an essential file. Remove and then  
reinstall the program.  
SEEK ERROR The operating system cannot  
find a specific track on the hard drive.  
SHUTDOWN FAILURE A chip on the system  
board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set  
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics"  
on page 42).  
1
Click the Windows Vista start button  
Control PanelProgramsPrograms and  
Features.  
2
Select the program you want to remove.  
38  
Troubleshooting  
TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER —  
TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED A chip  
System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell  
Diagnostics" on page 42).  
System configuration settings are corrupted.  
Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to  
charge the battery. If the problem persists, try to  
restore the data by entering the system setup  
program, then immediately exit the program (see  
your Service Manual at support.dell.com). If the  
message reappears, contact Dell (see "Contacting  
Dell" on page 69).  
UNEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED  
MODE The keyboard controller may be  
malfunctioning, or a memory module may be loose.  
Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard  
Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell  
Diagnostics" on page 42).  
TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED The  
coin-cell battery that supports the system  
configuration settings may need to be changed.  
Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to  
charge the battery. If the problem persists, contact  
Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69).  
X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS  
NOT READY Insert a disk into the drive and  
try again.  
WARNING: BATTERY IS CRITICALLY  
LOW The battery is running out of charge.  
Replace the battery, or connect the computer to an  
electrical outlet; otherwise, activate hibernate  
mode or shut down the computer.  
TIME-OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE  
SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM The time or  
date stored in the system setup program does not  
match the system clock. Correct the settings for the  
Date and Time options. See your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com for more information.  
39  
Troubleshooting  
HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE Possiblehard  
drive failure during hard drive POST. Check cables,  
swap hard disks, or see "Contacting Dell" on page 69  
for assistance.  
System Messages  
NOTE: If the message you received is not listed  
in the table, see the documentation for either  
the operating system or the program that was  
running when the message appeared.  
HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE —  
Possible hard drive failure during hard-drive start  
test (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69 for  
assistance).  
ALERT! PREVIOUS ATTEMPTS AT BOOTING  
THIS SYSTEM HAVE FAILED AT CHECKPOINT  
[NNNN]. FOR HELP IN RESOLVING THIS  
PROBLEM, PLEASE NOTE THIS CHECKPOINT  
AND CONTACT DELL TECHNICAL  
KEYBOARD FAILURE Keyboard failure or  
keyboard cable loose.  
SUPPORT The computer failed to complete the  
start routine three consecutive times for the same  
error (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69 for assistance).  
NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE No  
bootable partition on hard drive, or the hard drive  
cable is loose, or no bootable device exists.  
CMOS CHECKSUM ERROR Possible  
system board failure or RTC battery low. Replace  
the battery. See your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com or see "Contacting Dell" on  
page 69 for assistance.  
If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure  
that the cables are connected and that the  
drive is installed properly and partitioned as  
a boot device.  
Enter system setup and ensure that the boot  
sequence information is correct (see your  
Service Manual at support.dell.com).  
CPU FAN FAILURE Processor fan failure.  
Replace processor fan. See your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com.  
40  
 
Troubleshooting  
NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT A chip on the  
system board might be malfunctioning or system  
board failure (see "Contacting Dell" on page 69 for  
assistance).  
Troubleshooting Software and Hardware  
Problems  
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.  
USB OVER CURRENT ERROR Disconnect  
the USB device. Use external power source for the  
USB device.  
To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:  
NOTICE - HARD DRIVE SELF  
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button  
,
MONITORING SYSTEM HAS REPORTED  
THAT A PARAMETER HAS EXCEEDED ITS  
NORMAL OPERATING RANGE. DELL  
RECOMMENDS THAT YOU BACK UP YOUR  
DATA REGULARLY. A PARAMETER OUT OF  
RANGE MAY OR MAY NOT INDICATE A  
POTENTIAL HARD DRIVE PROBLEM —  
and click Help and Support.  
2
Type hardware troubleshooter in  
the search field and press <Enter> to start  
the search.  
3
In the search results, select the option that  
best describes the problem and follow the  
remaining troubleshooting steps.  
S.M.A.R.T error, possible hard drive failure.  
41  
   
Troubleshooting  
See your Service Manual at support.dell.com to  
review your computer’s configuration information,  
and ensure that the device that you want to test  
displays in the system setup program and is active.  
Dell Diagnostics  
CAUTION: Before working inside your  
computer, read the safety information that  
shipped with your computer. For additional  
safety best practices information, see the  
Regulatory Compliance Homepage at  
Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or  
from the Dell Drivers and Utilities media.  
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your  
Hard Drive  
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics  
If you experience a problem with your computer,  
perform the checks in Lockups and Software  
Problems (see "Lockups and Software Problems" on  
page 47) and run the Dell Diagnostics before you  
contact Dell for technical assistance.  
NOTE: If your computer cannot display  
a screen image, see "Contacting Dell" on  
page 69  
.
1
Ensure that the computer is connected to an  
electrical outlet that is known to be working  
properly.  
It is recommended that you print these procedures  
before you begin.  
2
3
Turn on (or restart) your computer.  
When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12>  
immediately. Select Diagnostics from the  
start menu and press <Enter>.  
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on  
Dell computers.  
NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities media is  
optional and may not ship with your  
computer.  
42  
       
Troubleshooting  
NOTICE: If you wait too long and the  
operating system logo appears, continue  
to wait until you see the Microsoft®  
Windows® desktop, and then shut down  
your computer and try again.  
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Dell  
Drivers and Utilities Media  
1
2
Insert the Drivers and Utilities media.  
Shut down and restart the computer.  
When the DELL logo appears,  
press <F12> immediately.  
NOTICE: If you see a message stating  
that no diagnostics utility partition has  
been found, run the Dell Diagnostics  
from the Drivers and Utilities media.  
NOTICE: 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 and try  
again.  
4
Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics  
from the diagnostics utility partition on your  
hard drive, and follow the instructions on the  
screen.  
NOTICE: The next steps change the  
boot sequence for one time only. On  
the next start-up, the computer starts  
according to the devices specified in  
the system setup program.  
3
4
When the boot device list appears, highlight  
CD/DVD/CD-RW and press <Enter>.  
Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from  
the menu that appears and press <Enter>.  
43  
 
Troubleshooting  
5
6
Type 1to start the CD menu and press  
<Enter> to proceed.  
If an error message appears on the screen,  
write down the exact message. This  
message may help support personnel to  
diagnose and fix the problem(s).  
Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from  
the numbered list. If multiple versions are  
listed, select the version that is appropriate  
for your computer.  
If an error message occurs in a program, see  
the program documentation.  
7
When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu  
appears, select the test that you want to run,  
and follow the instructions on the screen.  
NOTE: The procedures in this document  
were written for the Windows default view,  
so they may not apply if you set your Dell  
computer to the Windows Classic view.  
Troubleshooting Tips  
Follow these tips when troubleshooting your  
computer:  
Power Problems  
CAUTION: Before working inside your  
If you added or removed a part before the  
problem started, review the installation  
procedures and ensure that the part is  
correctly installed (see your Service Manual  
at support.dell.com).  
computer, read the safety information that  
shipped with your computer. For additional  
safety best practices information, see the  
Regulatory Compliance Homepage at  
If a device does not work, ensure that the  
device is properly connected.  
44  
       
Troubleshooting  
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF The  
computer is either turned off or is not receiving  
power.  
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLUE AND THE  
COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING —  
Ensure that the display is connected and  
powered on.  
Reseat the power cable in the power  
connector on the back of the computer and  
the electrical outlet.  
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING  
BLUE The computer is in standby mode. Press  
a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press  
the power button to resume normal operation.  
Bypass power strips, power extension  
cables, and other power protection devices  
to verify that the computer turns on properly.  
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING  
AMBER The computer is receiving electrical  
power, a device might be malfunctioning or  
incorrectly installed.  
Ensure that any power strips being used are  
plugged into an electrical outlet and are  
turned on.  
Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by  
testing it with another device, such as a  
lamp.  
Remove and then reinstall all memory  
modules (see your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com).  
Ensure that the main power cable and front  
panel cable are securely connected to the  
system board (see your Service Manual at  
support.dell.com).  
Remove and then reinstall any expansion  
cards, including graphics cards (see your  
Service Manual at support.dell.com).  
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY  
AMBER There is a power problem, a device  
may be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.  
45  
Troubleshooting  
Ensure that the processor power cable is  
Memory Problems  
securely connected to the system board  
power connector (see your Service Manual  
at support.dell.com).  
CAUTION: Before working inside your  
computer, read the safety information that  
shipped with your computer. For additional  
safety best practices information, see the  
Regulatory Compliance Homepage at  
Ensure that the main power cable and the  
front panel cable are securely connected to  
the system board connector (see your  
Service Manual at support.dell.com).  
IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY  
ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE Some possible  
causes of interference are:  
MESSAGE —  
Save and close any open files and exit any  
open programs you are not using to see if  
that resolves the problem.  
Power, keyboard, and mouse extension  
cables  
Too many devices connected to the same  
power strip  
See the software documentation for  
minimum memory requirements. If  
Multiple power strips connected to the same  
electrical outlet  
necessary, install additional memory (see  
your Service Manual at support.dell.com).  
46  
   
Troubleshooting  
Reseat the memory modules (see your  
Service Manual at support.dell.com) to  
ensure that your computer is successfully  
communicating with the memory.  
Lockups and Software Problems  
CAUTION: Before working inside your  
computer, read the safety information that  
shipped with your computer. For additional  
safety best practices information, see the  
Regulatory Compliance Homepage at  
Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell  
Diagnostics" on page 42).  
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY  
PROBLEMS —  
Reseat the memory modules (see your  
Service Manual at support.dell.com) to  
ensure that your computer is successfully  
communicating with the memory.  
The computer does not start up  
ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS  
FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER  
AND TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET  
Ensure that you are following the memory  
installation guidelines (see your Service  
Manual at support.dell.com).  
The computer stops responding  
Ensure that the memory you are using is  
supported by your computer. For more  
information about the type of memory  
supported by your computer, see "Memory"  
on page 22.  
NOTICE: You may lose data if you are unable  
to perform an operating system shutdown.  
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF If you are  
unable to get a response by pressing a key on your  
keyboard or moving your mouse, press the power  
button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the  
Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell  
Diagnostics" on page 42).  
computer turns off), and then restart your computer.  
47  
   
Troubleshooting  
A program stops responding  
A program is designed for an earlier  
Microsoft® Windows® operating system  
END THE PROGRAM —  
RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY  
WIZARD —  
1
Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to  
access the Task Manager, and click the  
Applications tab.  
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a  
program so that it runs in an environment similar to  
non-Windows Vista operating system environments.  
2
Click to select the program that is no longer  
responding, and click End Task.  
1
Click Start  
Control Panel→  
A program crashes repeatedly  
ProgramsUse an older program with this  
version of Windows.  
NOTE: Most software includes installation  
instructions in its documentation or the  
media (CD or DVD).  
2
3
In the welcome screen, click Next.  
Follow the instructions on the screen.  
CHECK THE SOFTWARE  
A solid blue screen appears  
DOCUMENTATION If necessary, uninstall  
and then reinstall the program.  
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF If you are  
unable to get a response by pressing a key on your  
keyboard or moving your mouse, press the power  
button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the  
computer turns off), and then restart your computer.  
48  
     
Troubleshooting  
BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY  
Other software problems  
Use a virus-scanning program to check the  
hard drive, CDs, or DVDs  
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION  
OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE  
Save and close any open files or programs  
and shut down your computer through the  
Start menu  
MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING  
INFORMATION —  
Ensure that the program is compatible with  
the operating system installed on your  
computer.  
Dell Technical Update Service  
The Dell Technical Update service provides  
proactive e-mail notification of software and  
hardware updates for your computer. The service is  
free and can be customized for content, format, and  
how frequently you receive notifications.  
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.  
To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to  
support.dell.com/technicalupdate.  
Verify that the device drivers do not conflict  
with the program.  
Dell Support Center  
If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the  
program.  
The Dell Support Center helps you find the service,  
support and system-specific information you need.  
For more information about Dell Support Center and  
available support tools, click the Services tab at  
support.dell.com.  
49  
         
Troubleshooting  
Click on the  
icon in the taskbar to run the  
For more information on Dell Support Center, see  
the Dell Technology Guide. It is available in  
Windows Help and Support (Start Help and  
Support) and at Dell Support Website  
(support.dell.com).  
application. The home page provides links to  
access:  
Self Help (Troubleshooting, Security, System  
Performance, Network/Internet, Backup/  
Recovery, and Windows Vista)  
Alerts (technical support alerts relevant to  
your computer)  
Assistance from Dell (Technical Support with  
DellConnect™, Customer Service, Training  
and Tutorials, How-To Help with Dell on Call,  
and Online Scan with PCCheckUp)  
About Your System (System Documentation,  
Warranty Information, System Information,  
Upgrades & Accessories)  
The top of the Dell Support Center home page  
displays your system’s model number along with its  
service tag and express service code.  
50  
Reinstalling Software  
Reinstalling Software  
If an exclamation point is next to the device name,  
you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new  
driver (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on  
page 51).  
Drivers  
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.  
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities  
NOTICE: The Dell Support website at  
support.dell.com and your Drivers and  
Utilities media provide approved drivers for  
Dell™ computers. If you install drivers  
obtained from other sources, your computer  
might not work correctly.  
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button™  
,
and right-click Computer.  
2
Click PropertiesDevice Manager.  
NOTE: The User Account Control  
window may appear. If you are an  
administrator on the computer, click  
Continue; otherwise, contact your  
administrator to continue.  
Returning to a Previous Device Driver  
Version  
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button  
,
Scroll down the list to see if any device has an  
and right-click Computer.  
exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the  
2
Click PropertiesDevice Manager.  
device icon.  
51  
                   
Reinstalling Software  
NOTE: The User Account Control  
1
2
With the Windows desktop displayed, insert  
your Drivers and Utilities media.  
window may appear. If you are an  
administrator on the computer, click  
Continue; otherwise, contact your  
administrator to enter the Device  
Manager.  
If this is your first time to use the Drivers and  
Utilities media, go to step 2. If not, go to step 5.  
When the Drivers and Utilities media  
installation program starts, follow the  
prompts on the screen.  
3
4
Right-click the device for which the new  
driver was installed and click Properties.  
NOTE: In most cases, the Drivers and  
Utilities program starts running  
automatically. If it does not, start  
Windows Explorer, click your media  
drive directory to display the media  
contents, and then double-click the  
autorcd.exe file.  
Click the Drivers tabRoll Back Driver.  
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the  
problem, then use System Restore (see "Restoring  
Your Operating System" on page 54) to return your  
computer to the operating state that existed before  
you installed the new driver.  
3
4
When the InstallShield Wizard Complete  
window appears, remove the Drivers and  
Utilities media and click Finish to restart the  
computer.  
Using the Drivers and Utilities Media  
If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore  
(see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 54)  
does not resolve the problem, reinstall the driver  
from your Drivers and Utilities media.  
When you see the Windows desktop,  
reinsert the Drivers and Utilities media.  
52  
   
Reinstalling Software  
5
At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen,  
If a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is  
not required by your operating system.  
click Next.  
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities program  
displays drivers only for hardware that  
came installed in your computer. If you  
installed additional hardware, the  
drivers for the new hardware might not  
be displayed. If those drivers are not  
displayed, exit the Drivers and Utilities  
program. For drivers information, see  
the documentation that came with the  
device.  
Manually Reinstalling Drivers  
After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as  
described in the previous section:  
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button  
,
and right-click Computer.  
2
Click PropertiesDevice Manager.  
NOTE: The User Account Control window  
may appear. If you are an administrator  
on the computer, click Continue;  
A message appears, stating that the Drivers  
and Utilities media is detecting hardware in  
your computer.  
otherwise, contact your administrator  
to enter the Device Manager.  
3
Double-click the type of device for which you  
are installing the driver (for example, Audio  
or Video).  
The drivers that are used by your computer  
are automatically displayed in the My  
Drivers—The ResourceCD has identified  
these components in your system window.  
4
5
Double-click the name of the device for  
which you are installing the driver.  
6
Click the driver that you want to reinstall and  
follow the instructions on the screen.  
Click the Driver tabUpdate Driver→  
Browse my computer for driver software.  
53  
 
Reinstalling Software  
®
®
6
7
Click Browse and browse to the location to  
Using Microsoft Windows System  
Restore  
which you previously copied the driver files.  
When the name of the appropriate driver  
appears, click the name of the driverOK→  
Next.  
The Windows operating systems provide a System  
Restore option that allows 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. Any  
changes that System Restore makes to your  
computer are completely reversible.  
8
Click Finish and restart your computer.  
Restoring Your Operating System  
You can restore your operating system in the  
following ways:  
Microsoft Windows System Restore returns  
your computer to an earlier operating state  
without affecting data files. Use System  
Restore as the first solution for restoring your  
operating system and preserving data files.  
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data  
files. System Restore does not monitor your  
data files or recover them.  
NOTE: The procedures in this document  
were written for the Windows default view,  
so they may not apply if you set your Dell™  
computer to the Windows Classic view.  
If you received the Operating System media  
with your computer, you can use it to restore  
your operating system. However, using the  
Operating System media also deletes all data  
on the hard drive. Use the media only if  
System Restore did not resolve your  
operating system problem.  
NOTE: Set your Dell™ computer to the  
Windows Classic view.  
54  
   
Reinstalling Software  
Undoing the Last System Restore  
Starting System Restore  
1
2
Click Start  
.
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.  
In the Start Search box, type System  
Restore and press <Enter>.  
NOTE: The User Account Control  
window may appear. If you are an  
administrator on the computer, click  
Continue; otherwise, contact your  
administrator to continue the desired  
action.  
1
2
Click Start  
.
In the Start Search box, type System  
Restore and press <Enter>.  
3
Click Undo my last restoration and click  
Next.  
3
Click Next and follow the remaining prompts  
on the screen.  
Using the Operating System Media  
In the event that System Restore did not resolve  
the issue, you may undo the last system restore  
(see "Undoing the Last System Restore" on page 55).  
Before you Begin  
If you are considering reinstalling the Windows  
operating system to correct a problem with a newly  
installed driver, first try using Windows Device  
Driver Rollback. See "Returning to a Previous  
Device Driver Version" on page 51. If Device Driver  
Rollback does not resolve the problem, use  
Microsoft Windows System Restore to return your  
55  
     
Reinstalling Software  
operating system to the operating state it was in  
before you installed the new device driver. See  
"Using Microsoft® Windows® System Restore" on  
page 54.  
Reinstalling Windows  
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to  
complete. After you reinstall the operating system,  
you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus  
protection program, and other software.  
NOTICE: Before performing the installation,  
back up all data files on your primary hard  
drive. For conventional hard drive  
1
Save and close any open files and exit any  
open programs.  
configurations, the primary hard drive is the  
first drive detected by the computer.  
2
3
Insert the Operating System media.  
If the Install Windows message  
appears, click Exit.  
To reinstall Windows, you need the Dell™ Operating  
System media and the Dell Drivers and Utilities  
media.  
4
Restart the computer.  
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12>  
immediately.  
NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities media  
contains drivers that were installed during  
the assembly of the computer. Use the Dell  
Drivers and Utilities media to load any  
required drivers. Depending on the region  
from which you ordered your computer, or  
whether you requested the media, the Dell  
Drivers and Utilities media and Dell  
Operating System media may not ship with  
your computer.  
NOTE: 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 and try  
again.  
56  
Reinstalling Software  
NOTE: The next steps change the boot  
sequence for one time only. On the  
next start-up, the computer boots  
according to the devices specified in  
the system setup program.  
5
6
When the boot device list appears, highlight  
CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive and press <Enter>.  
Press any key to Boot from CD-ROM, and  
follow the instructions on the screen to  
complete the installation.  
57  
Reinstalling Software  
58  
Finding Information  
Finding Information  
NOTE: Some features or media may be  
optional and may not ship with your  
computer. Some features or media may not  
be available in certain countries.  
NOTE: Additional information may ship with  
your computer.  
Document/Media/Label  
Contents  
Service Tag/Express Service  
Code  
Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use  
support.dell.com or contact support.  
The Service Tag/Express  
Service Code is located on your  
computer.  
Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting  
support  
NOTE: Your Service Tag/Express Service Code is located on your computer.  
Drivers and Utilities Media  
A diagnostic program for your computer  
Drivers for your computer  
The Drivers and Utilities media  
is a CD or DVD that may have  
shipped with your computer.  
Drivers and documentation updates can be found at support.dell.com  
Notebook System Software (NSS)  
Readme files  
.
NOTE: Readme files may be included on your media to provide last-minute  
updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technical-  
reference material for technicians or experienced users.  
59  
           
Finding Information  
Document/Media/Label  
Contents  
Operating System Media  
Reinstall your operating system  
The Operating System media is  
a CD or DVD that may have  
shipped with your computer.  
Safety, Regulatory, Warranty,  
and Support Documentation  
Warranty information  
Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)  
Safety instructions  
This type of information may  
have shipped with your  
computer. For additional  
regulatory information, see the  
Regulatory Compliance  
Homepage on www.dell.com at  
the following location:  
Regulatory information  
Ergonomics information  
End User License Agreement  
regulatory_compliance.  
Service Manual  
How to remove and replace parts  
How to configure system settings  
How to troubleshoot and solve problems  
The Service Manual for your  
computer can be found at  
support.dell.com.  
60  
                 
Finding Information  
Document/Media/Label  
Contents  
Dell Technology Guide  
About your operating system  
Using and maintaining devices  
The Dell Technology Guide is  
available at support.dell.com.  
Understanding technologies such as RAID, Internet, Bluetooth® wireless  
technology, e-mail, networking, and more.  
Microsoft® Windows® License  
Label  
Provides your operating system product key.  
Your Microsoft Windows  
License is located on your  
computer.  
61  
       
Finding Information  
62  
Getting Help  
Getting Help  
4
5
Use Dell's extensive suite of online services  
available at Dell Support (support.dell.com)  
for help with installation and troubleshooting  
procedures. See "Online Services" on  
page 64 for a more extensive list of Dell  
Support online.  
Obtaining Assistance  
CAUTION: If you need to remove the  
computer cover, first disconnect the  
computer power and modem cables from  
all electrical outlets. Follow the safety  
instructions that shipped with your  
computer.  
If the preceding steps have not resolved the  
problem, see "Contacting Dell" on page 69.  
If you experience a problem with your computer,  
you can complete the following steps to diagnose  
and troubleshoot the problem:  
NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone at  
or near the affected computer so that the  
support staff can assist you with any  
necessary procedures.  
1
See "Troubleshooting Tips" on page 44 for  
information and procedures that pertain to  
the problem your computer is experiencing.  
NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system  
may not be available in all countries.  
2
3
See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42 for  
When prompted by Dell's automated telephone  
system, enter your Express Service Code to route  
the call directly to the proper support personnel.  
If you do not have an Express Service Code, open  
procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics.  
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on  
page 68.  
63  
     
Getting Help  
the Dell Accessories folder, double-click the  
Express Service Code icon, and follow the  
directions.  
Online Services  
You can learn about Dell products and services at  
the following websites:  
For instructions on using the Dell Support, see  
"Technical Support and Customer Service" on  
page 64.  
www.dell.com  
NOTE: Some of the following services are not  
always available in all locations outside the  
continental U.S. Call your local Dell  
countries)  
representative for information on availability.  
Technical Support and Customer Service  
Dell's support service is available to answer your  
questions about Dell™ hardware. Our support staff  
uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast,  
accurate answers.  
To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You  
Call" on page 67, and then see the contact  
information for your region or go to  
support.dell.com.  
64  
       
Getting Help  
You can access Dell Support through the following  
websites and e-mail addresses:  
Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses:  
[email protected] (Asian/Pacific countries  
only)  
Dell Support websites:  
support.dell.com  
[email protected] (Canada only)  
support.apj.dell.com (Asia Pacific and Japan  
only)  
Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP):  
ftp.dell.com – log in as user anonymous, and  
use your e-mail address as your password  
support.jp.dell.com (Japan only)  
support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)  
AutoTech Service  
Dell Support e-mail addresses:  
Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—  
provides recorded answers to the questions most  
frequently asked by Dell customers about their  
laptop and desktop computers.  
[email protected] (Brazil)  
When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone  
telephone to select the subjects that correspond to  
your questions. For the telephone number to call for  
your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 69.  
[email protected] (Latin America and  
Caribbean countries only)  
[email protected] (Asian/Pacific countries  
only)  
65  
 
Getting Help  
the telephone number to call for your region or to  
page 69.  
Automated Order-Status Service  
To check on the status of any Dell products that you  
have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or  
you can call the automated order-status service.  
A recording prompts you for the information needed  
to locate and report on your order. For the  
telephone number to call for your region, see  
"Contacting Dell" on page 69.  
Returning Items for Warranty  
Repair or Credit  
Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair  
or credit, as follows:  
1
Call Dell to obtain a Return Material  
Problems With Your Order  
Authorization Number, and write it clearly  
and prominently on the outside of the box.  
If you have a problem with your order, such as  
missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing,  
contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your  
invoice or packing slip available when you call.  
For the telephone number to call for your region,  
see "Contacting Dell" on page 69.  
For the telephone number to call for your region,  
see "Contacting Dell" on page 69. Include a copy  
of the invoice and a letter describing the reason  
for the return.  
2
Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist  
(see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 68),  
indicating the tests that you have run and  
any error messages reported by the Dell  
Diagnostics (see "Contacting Dell" on  
page 69).  
Product Information  
If you need information about additional products  
available from Dell, or if you would like to place an  
order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For  
66  
       
Getting Help  
Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist  
3
4
Include any accessories that belong with the  
item(s) being returned (power cables,  
software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if  
the return is for credit.  
(see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 68). If possible,  
turn on your computer before you call Dell for  
assistance and call from a telephone at or near the  
computer. You may be asked to type some commands  
at the keyboard, relay detailed information during  
operations, or try other troubleshooting steps  
possible only at the computer itself. Ensure that the  
computer documentation is available.  
Pack the equipment to be returned in the  
original (or equivalent) packing materials.  
You are responsible for paying shipping expenses.  
You are also responsible for insuring any product  
returned, and you assume the risk of loss during  
shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.)  
packages are not accepted.  
CAUTION: Before working inside your  
computer, follow the safety instructions in  
the documentation that shipped with your  
computer.  
Returns that are missing any of the preceding  
requirements will be refused at Dell’s receiving  
dock and returned to you.  
Before You Call  
NOTE: Have your Express Service Code  
ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s  
automated-support telephone system direct  
your call more efficiently. You may also be  
asked for your Service Tag (located on the  
back or bottom of your computer).  
67  
 
Getting Help  
Diagnostics Checklist  
Name:  
Date:  
Address:  
Phone number:  
Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer):  
Express Service Code:  
Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):  
Operating system and version:  
Devices:  
Expansion cards:  
Are you connected to a network? Yes No  
Network, version, and network adapter:  
Programs and versions:  
See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system’s start-up files. If the  
computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before  
calling Dell.  
Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:  
Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:  
68  
 
Getting Help  
Contacting Dell  
NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet  
connection, you can find contact information  
on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill,  
or Dell product catalog.  
Dell provides several online and telephone-based  
support and service options. Availability varies by  
country and product, and some services may not be  
available in your area. To contact Dell for sales,  
technical support, or customer service issues:  
1
Visit support.dell.com, and verify your  
country or region in the Choose A Country/  
Region drop-down menu at the bottom of the  
page.  
2
3
Click Contact Us on the left side of the page,  
and select the appropriate service or support  
link based on your need.  
Choose the method of contacting Dell that is  
convenient for you.  
69  
     
Getting Help  
70  
Index  
Index  
B
D
battery  
Dell  
removal, 12  
contacting, 63, 69  
software updates, 49  
Support Utility, 49  
technical support and customer  
service, 64  
C
connecting  
Technical Update Service, 49  
AC adapter, 16  
Dell Diagnostics, 42  
Internet, 17  
starting from the Drivers and Utilities media, 43  
starting from your hard drive, 42  
network, 17  
network cable, 16  
USB devices, 16  
Dell Technology Guide, 61  
DellConnect, 64  
contacting Dell, 63, 69  
diagnostics  
Dell, 42  
display  
description, 9  
71  
 
Index  
documentation, 59  
Dell Technology Guide, 61  
Service Manual, 60–61  
IEEE 1394 connector  
description, 10  
drivers, 51  
Internet  
Drivers and Utilities media, 59  
identifying, 51  
connecting, 17  
reinstalling, 51  
returning to a previous version, 51  
L
Drivers and Utilities media, 52, 59  
Dell Diagnostics, 42  
license label, 61  
E
M
End User License Agreement (EULA), 60  
ergonomics information, 60  
Express Service Code, 59  
media  
Drivers and Utilities, 59  
memory  
troubleshooting, 46  
F
finding information, 59  
72  
Index  
N
R
network connector  
description, 11  
regulatory information, 60  
reinstalling  
networks  
drivers and utilities, 51  
software, 51  
connecting, 17  
Notebook System Software, 59  
S
O
S.M.A.R.T, 41  
operating system  
media, 55  
safety information, 60  
security cable slot  
description, 11  
operating system product key, 61  
Service Manual, 60–61  
Service Tag, 59  
P
setup  
phone numbers, 69  
computer, 15  
quick setup, 15  
power  
power light conditions, 44  
troubleshooting, 44  
73  
Index  
software  
contacting Dell, 69  
problems, 48  
reinstalling, 51  
DellConnect, 64  
troubleshooting, 48–49  
updates, 49  
online services, 64  
regional, 64  
technical support and customer service, 64  
specifications  
AC adapter, 30  
all, 21  
support information, 60  
audio, 25  
battery, 28  
T
communications, 24  
display, 26  
Terms and Conditions, 60  
environmental, 31  
keyboard, 27  
memory, 22  
track stick/touch pad buttons  
description, 8  
troubleshooting, 33, 60  
blue screen, 48  
physical, 31  
ports and connectors, 23  
processor, 21  
system information, 22  
touch pad, 28  
video, 25  
computer not responding, 47  
Dell Diagnostics, 42  
error messages, 33  
memory, 46  
power, 44  
power light conditions, 44  
program crashes, 47  
74  
Index  
troubleshooting (continued)  
programs and Windows compatibility, 48  
software, 47–49  
Windows Vista  
Program Compatibility wizard, 48  
wizards  
Program Compatibility wizard, 48  
tips, 44  
U
updates  
software and hardware, 49  
V
view  
back, 10  
front, 7–8  
W
warranty information, 60  
Windows License label, 61  
75  
Index  
76  

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