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Dell™ XPS™ M1530
Owner’s Manual
Model PP28L
w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m
Contents
Finding Information
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Setting Up Your Computer
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Connecting to the Internet
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Transferring Information to a New Computer
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Setting Up a Printer
Printer Cable
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Power Protection Devices
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Surge Protectors .
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Line Conditioners .
Uninterruptible Power Supplies
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About Your Computer
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Front View .
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Left Side View .
Right Side View
Back View .
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Bottom View .
Contents
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Numeric Keypad .
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Key Combinations
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System Functions .
Display Functions .
Battery
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Power Management
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Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations .
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Touch Pad
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Customizing the Touch Pad .
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Using the Display
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41
Adjusting Brightness
41
Switching the Video Image From Your
Computer Display To a Projector
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Using a Battery
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Battery Performance
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Checking the Battery Charge
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Dell QuickSet Battery Meter .
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Microsoft Windows Battery Meter .
Charge Gauge
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Low-Battery Warning
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Contents
Conserving Battery Power
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Configuring Power Management Settings .
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Charging the Battery
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Replacing the Battery .
Storing a Battery
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Using Multimedia
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Playing Media .
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Media
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How to Copy a CD, DVD or BD .
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Adjusting the Volume
Adjusting the Picture
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Using Dell MediaDirect™ .
Connecting Your Computer to a TV or
Audio Device
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HDMI .
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S-Video and Standard Audio .
Component Video and Standard Audio
Composite Video and Standard Audio .
Enabling the Display Settings for a TV .
Contents
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Using the Camera
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Accessing the Camera’s Help File
Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings .
70
Creating a Picture or a Video
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Using ExpressCards
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ExpressCard Blanks .
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Installing an ExpressCard .
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Removing an ExpressCard or Blank .
72
Using the Memory Card Reader
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Memory Card Blanks
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Installing a Memory Card
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Removing a Memory Card or Blank .
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10 Setting Up and Using Networks
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Connecting a Network or Broadband
Modem Cable
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Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft
Windows Vista Operating System .
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Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) .
What You Need to Establish a WLAN
Connection
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Checking Your Wireless Network Card
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Connecting to a WLAN .
Mobile Broadband/Wireless Wide Area
Network (WWAN) .
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What You Need to Establish a Mobile
Broadband Network Connection
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Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network
Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile
Broadband Card
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Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator .
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11 Securing Your Computer
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Security Cable Lock .
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Passwords .
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Fingerprint Reader
Computer Tracking Software
If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen
12 Troubleshooting
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Dell Technical Update Service
Dell Diagnostics .
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Dell Support Center
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Dell Support 3
Dell PC Tune-Up
Dell PC CheckUp .
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Dell Network Assistant .
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DellConnect .
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Drive Problems
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Hard drive problems
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Error Messages
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ExpressCard Problems
IEEE 1394 Device Problems
Keyboard Problems
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External Keyboard problems .
Lockups and Software Problems
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The computer does not start .
The computer stops responding
crashes repeatedly .
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Microsoft Windows operating system
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Dell MediaDirect problems .
Other software problems .
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Memory Problems .
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Network Problems .
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Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area
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Power Problems .
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111
8
Contents
Printer Problems
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Scanner Problems .
Sound and Speaker Problems
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No sound from integrated speakers .
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Remote Control Problems .
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Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
Video and Display Problems
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If the display is blank .
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Drivers .
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What Is a Driver? .
Identifying Drivers
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities .
Troubleshooting Software and Hardware
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Problems in the Windows Vista
Operating System
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Restoring Your Microsoft Windows Vista
Operating System
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Using Windows Vista System Restore .
Using the Operating System Media
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Contents
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Before You Begin
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129
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Recommended Tools .
Turning Off Your Computer
Hard Drive
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Replacing the Hard Drive .
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134
134
Removing the Center Control Cover and
Hinge Covers
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Hinge Covers
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Keyboard .
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Removing the Keyboard
Memory
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Subscriber Identity Module .
Wireless Mini-Cards
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144
Removing a WLAN Card
Replacing a WLAN Card
Removing a Mobile Broadband or
WWAN Card
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Replacing a WWAN Card
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Contents
Flash Cache Module
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147
Removing the FCM .
®
Technology
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149
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Removing the Card .
Replacing the Card .
14 Traveling With Your Computer
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Identifying Your Computer
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Packing the Computer .
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Travel Tips .
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Traveling by Air .
152
15 Getting Help
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Obtaining Assistance
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DellConnect
Online Services
AutoTech Service
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Problems With Your Order
Product Information .
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Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit .
Before You Call
Contacting Dell
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Contents
11
16 Specifications
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A Appendix
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Using the System Setup Program
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Viewing the System Setup Screen .
System Setup Screen .
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Cleaning Your Computer .
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Computer, Keyboard, and Display
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Media .
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)
and Peripherals .
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Definition of "Third-Party" Software
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FCC Notice (U.S. Only) .
FCC Class B .
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Macrovision Product Notice
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Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
Index
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195
12
Contents
Finding Information
NOTE: Some features may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some
features may not be available in certain countries.
NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
What Are You Looking For?
• A diagnostic program for my computer Drivers and Utilities Media
• Drivers for my computer
Find It Here
Documentation and drivers are already
• Device documentation
installed on your computer. You can use
the Drivers and Utilities media to
reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers
and Utilities" on page 119) or run the
Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics"
on page 89).
• Notebook System Software (NSS)
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.
NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates
can be found at support.dell.com.
Finding Information
13
What Are You Looking For?
Find It Here
• Warranty information
Dell™ Product Information Guide
• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
• How to set up my computer
Setup Diagram
NOTE: The appearance of your setup
diagram may vary.
• Service Tag and Express Service Code Service Tag and Microsoft Windows
®
®
Product Key
• Microsoft Windows Product Key
These labels are located on your computer.
• Use the Service Tag to identify your
computer when you use
support.dell.com or contact support.
• Enter the Express Service Code to direct
your call when contacting support.
NOTE: As an increased security measure,
the newly designed Microsoft Windows
license label incorporates a missing portion
or "hole" to discourage removal of the label.
14
Finding Information
What Are You Looking For?
Find It Here
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
tips, articles from technicians, online
NOTE: Select your region or business
segment to view the appropriate support
courses, and frequently asked questions
• Community — Online discussion with site.
other Dell customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for
components, such as the memory, hard
drive, and operating system
• Customer Care — Contact
information, service call and order
status, and warranty and repair
information
• Service and support — Service call
status, support history, service contract,
and online discussions with support
• Dell Technical Update Service —
Proactive e-mail notification of software
and hardware updates for your
computer
• Reference — Computer
documentation, details on my
computer configuration, product
specifications, and white papers
• Downloads — Certified drivers,
patches, and software updates
• Notebook System Software (NSS) — If To download Notebook System Software:
you reinstall the operating system for
1
2
3
Go to support.dell.com and click
your computer, you should also reinstall
the NSS utility. NSS provides critical
updates for your operating system and
support for processors, optical drives,
USB devices, and so on. NSS is
necessary for correct operation of your
Dell computer. The software
Drivers & Downloads.
Enter your Service Tag or Product Type
and Product Model, and click Go
Scroll to System and Configuration
Utilities Dell Notebook System
Software and click Download Now
Select Drivers & Downloads and click
Go
.
→
.
4
automatically detects your computer
and operating system and installs the
updates appropriate for your
.
NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface
may vary depending on your selections.
configuration.
Finding Information
15
What Are You Looking For?
• Software upgrades and troubleshooting Dell Support Utility
hints — Frequently asked questions,
hot topics, and general health of your
computing environment
Find It Here
The Dell Support Utility is an automated
upgrade and notification system installed
on your computer. This support provides
real-time health scans of your computing
environment, software updates, and
relevant self-support information. Access
the Dell Support Utility from the
icon on the taskbar. For more information,
see "Dell Support Center" on page 93.
• How to use Microsoft Windows Vista™ Windows Help and Support
• How to work with programs and files
1
2
Click Start
→
Help and Support.
• How to personalize my desktop
In Search Help, type a word or phrase
that describes your problem, and then
press <Enter> or click the magnifying
glass.
3
4
Click the topic that describes your
problem.
Follow the instructions on the screen.
• Information on network activity, the
Power Management Wizard, hotkeys,
and other items controlled by Dell
QuickSet.
Dell QuickSet Help
To view Dell QuickSet Help, right-click
®
the QuickSet icon in the Microsoft
®
Windows taskbar.
The taskbar is located in the lower-right
corner of your screen.
16
Finding Information
What Are You Looking For?
Find It Here
• How to reinstall my operating system
Operating System Media
The operating system is already installed
on your computer. To reinstall your
operating system, use the Operating
System media. See "Restoring Your
Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating
System" on page 122.
After you reinstall your operating system,
use the Drivers and Utilities media to
reinstall drivers for the devices that came
with your computer.
Your operating system product key label is
located on your computer.
NOTE: The color of your DVD varies based
on the operating system you ordered.
Finding Information
17
18
Finding Information
Setting Up Your Computer
Connecting to the Internet
NOTE: Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and ISP offerings vary by country.
To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an ISP.
Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options:
•
DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your
existing telephone line or cellular telephone service. 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.
Satellite modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access
through a satellite television system.
Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line.
Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL, cable, and satellite
modem connections.
•
•
Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN) or Mobile Broadband technology
provides a connection to the Internet using cellular technology at
broadband rates.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) connections use high-frequency
radio waves to communicate. Typically, a wireless router is connected to
the broadband cable or DSL modem that broadcasts the Internet signal to
your computer.
If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem
connector and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet
connection. Your system does not have an internal modem. It supports an
external USB modem which can be connected to the USB port. If you have
ordered an external modem with your system, see the Help in the CD that
shipped with the modem for information on setting it up. If you are using a
DSL, cable or satellite modem connection, contact your ISP or cellular
telephone service for setup instructions.
Setting Up Your Computer
19
Setting Up Your Internet Connection
To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut:
1
2
3
®
®
Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft Windows desktop.
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
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 following
section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using.
NOTE: If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem,
and Internet Problems" on page 98. 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.
NOTE: Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, the Connect to
the Internet wizard can help you get one.
1
2
3
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
Click Start Control Panel
→
.
Under Network and Internet, click Connect to the Internet
.
The Connect to the Internet window appears.
4
Click either Broadband (PPPoE) or Dial-up, depending on how you want
to connect:
•
Choose Broadband if you will use a DSL, satellite modem, cable TV
modem, or Bluetooth wireless technology connection.
•
Chose 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.
5
Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information
provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
20
Setting Up Your Computer
Transferring Information to a New Computer
You can use your operating system "wizards" to help you transfer files and
other data from one computer to another—for example, from an old
computer to a new computer. For instructions, see the following section that
corresponds to the operating system that your computer is running.
1
2
3
Click Start
In the User Account Control dialog box, click Continue
Click Start a new transfer or Continue a transfer in progress
→
Transfer files and settings
→
Start Windows Easy Transfer
.
.
.
Follow the instructions provided on the screen by the Windows Easy Transfer
wizard.
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.
For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the
printer manufacturer.
Printer Cable
Your printer connects to your computer with either a USB cable or a parallel
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 and computer.
If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your
computer, the cable may arrive in the computer’s shipping box.
Setting Up Your Computer
21
Connecting a USB Printer
NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1
2
Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.
Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and
the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.
1
2
3
1
USB connector on computer
USB printer cable
2
USB connector on printer
3
3
Turn on the printer, and then turn on the computer.
Click Start Network Add a printer to start the Add Printer Wizard.
4
5
→
→
Install the printer driver if necessary. See "Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 119 and the documentation that came with your printer.
22
Setting Up Your Computer
Power Protection Devices
Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures:
•
•
•
Surge protectors
Line conditioners
Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)
Surge Protectors
Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help
prevent damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during
electrical storms or after power interruptions. Some surge protector
manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain types of damage.
Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge protector. A device
with a higher joule rating offers more protection. Compare joule ratings to
determine the relative effectiveness of different devices.
NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or
power interruptions caused by nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in
your area, disconnect the telephone line from the telephone wall jack and
disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet.
Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem protection. See the
surge protector documentation for modem connection instructions.
NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the
network cable from the network wall jack during electrical storms.
Line Conditioners
NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.
Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level.
Setting Up Your Computer
23
Uninterruptible Power Supplies
NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in
data loss or file damage.
NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to
a UPS. Connect other devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that
provides surge protection.
A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices
contain a battery that provides temporary power to connected devices when
AC power is interrupted. The battery charges while AC power is available. See
the UPS manufacturer documentation for information on battery operating time
and to ensure that the device is approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
24
Setting Up Your Computer
1
3
5
7
9
camera indicator
display
2
4
6
8
camera
media control buttons
keyboard
volume control buttons
fingerprint reader
microphone connector
8-in-1 memory card reader
10 audio connectors
11 consumer IR
13 touch pad
12 touch pad buttons
14 Dell MediaDirect button
16 dual digital microphones
15 power button
CAMERA INDICATOR — Indicates that the camera is turned on.
CAMERA — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat.
DISPLAY — For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" on
page 41.
POWER BUTTON — Press the power button to turn on the computer or exit a power
management mode (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 46).
®
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft
®
Windows operating system shutdown rather than by pressing the power button.
If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer
turns off completely (may take several seconds).
KEYBOARD — For more information about the keyboard, see "Using the Keyboard and
Touchpad" on page 37.
DELL MEDIADIRECT™ BUTTON — Press the Dell MediaDirect button to launch Dell
MediaDirect (see "Using Dell MediaDirect™" on page 58).
DUAL DIGITAL MICROPHONES — Built-in microphone for conferencing and chat.
26
About Your Computer
8-IN-1 MEMORY CARD READER — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and
share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card. The computer ships
with a plastic blank installed in the slot. The 8-in-1 memory card reader reads the
following digital memory cards:
• Secure Digital (SD) memory card
• Secure Digital Input/Output (SDIO) card
• MultiMediaCard (MMC)
• Memory Stick
• Memory Stick PRO
• xD-Picture Card
• Hi Speed-SD
• Hi Density-SD
TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse (see "Touch Pad" on page 39).
TOUCH PAD BUTTONS — Use these buttons much like the buttons on a mouse when
you use the touch pad to move the cursor on the display (see "Touch Pad" on page 39).
FINGERPRINT READER — Helps to keep your Dell™ computer secure. When you slide
your finger over the reader, it uses your unique fingerprint to authenticate your user
identity. For more information, click Start
Suite. There are four sub items in this folder.
–
–
–
–
User Enrollment - To enroll your fingerprint
Control Center - To access the Fingerprint Reader Suite settings
Fingerprint Tutorial - Guide to fingerprint scanning
Help - HTML-based help
For information on how to activate and use the security management software that
controls the biometric reader, see "Fingerprint Reader" on page 86.
MEDIA CONTROL BUTTONS — Control CD, DVD, Blu-ray Disc™ (BD), and Media
Player playback.
CONSUMER IR — A port on the front of the computer that allows certain software
applications to be controlled by the Dell Travel Remote.
About Your Computer
27
The blue lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:
in a power management mode.
Turns on when the numeric keypad (Num Lock) is enabled.
Turns on when the uppercase letter (Caps Lock) function is enabled.
Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.
A
WiFi status light – Turns on when wireless networking is enabled. To
enable or disable wireless networking, use the wireless switch (see "wireless
On/Off switch" on page 33).
®
Bluetooth status light – Turns on when a card with Bluetooth wireless
technology is enabled.
NOTE: The card with Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional feature.
The light turns on only if you ordered the card with your computer. For
more information, see the documentation that came with your card.
To turn off only the Bluetooth wireless technology functionality, right-click
the
Radio.
icon in the notification area, and then click Disable Bluetooth
To quickly enable or disable all wireless devices, use the wireless switch
(see "wireless On/Off switch" on page 33).
If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the
– Solid blue: The battery is charging.
light operates as follows:
– Flashing blue: The battery is almost fully charged.
– Off: The battery is adequately charged.
If the computer is running on a battery, the
light operates as follows:
– Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off).
– Flashing amber: The battery charge is low.
– Solid amber: The battery charge is critically low.
About Your Computer
29
VOLUME CONTROL BUTTONS — Press these buttons to adjust the volume.
Eject
Play the next track or press and
hold to fastforward within a track
Play the previous track or
press and hold to rewind
within a track
Mute
Stop
Turn the volume down
Turn the volume up
Play or pause
30
About Your Computer
Left Side View
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
3
5
7
AC adapter connector
VGA connector
HDMI connector
hard drive
2
USB connector (2)
4
6
network connector (RJ-45)
IEEE 1394a connector
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.
IEEE 1394A CONNECTOR — Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394a high-speed
transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras.
HDMI CONNECTOR — HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connector
carries an uncompressed all digital signal to produce hi-definition video and audio.
VGA CONNECTOR
Connects video devices, such as a monitor.
About Your Computer
31
NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45)
NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector.
To avoid damaging the computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network
connector.
Connects the computer to a 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.
USB CONNECTORS
Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or
printer.
Right Side View
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
3
5
7
ExpressCard slot
2
4
6
Wireless On/Off switch
optical drive
Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator
USB connector
S-Video connector
security cable slot
32
About Your Computer
EXPRESSCARD SLOT — Supports one ExpressCard. The computer ships with a
plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information see "Using ExpressCards" on
page 71.
OPTICAL DRIVE — For more information about the optical drive see "Using
Multimedia" on page 51.
USB CONNECTOR
Connects USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or
printer.
S-VIDEO CONNECTOR — Connects your computer to a TV.
port at the front of the system to connect to an audio device.
SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device
to the computer (see "Security Cable Lock" on page 85).
WIRELESS ON/OFF SWITCH — When enabled through Dell QuickSet, this switch
can scan for a wireless local area network (WLAN) in your vicinity. You can also use it
to rapidly turn off or on any wireless devices such as WLAN cards and internal cards
with Bluetooth wireless technology (see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on
page 83).
1
2
3
1
2
3
off : Disables wireless devices.
on : Enables wireless devices.
Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator
About Your Computer
33
DELL WI-FI CATCHER™ NETWORK LOCATOR — Push this button to scan
specifically for wireless networks in your vicinity (see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network
Locator" on page 83).
The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator has an LED that operates as follows:
– Flashing blue: Searching for networks
– Solid orange: Weak network found
– Solid blue: Strong network found
– Off: No signal found
Back View
1
2
1
battery
2
air vent
AIR VENT — The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents,
which prevents the computer from overheating.
CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air
vents. Do not store your 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.
34
About 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.
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.
NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the
connector, not the cable itself, and pull firmly, but gently to help prevent damage to
the cable.
NOTE: Connect the power cord to the adapter firmly and ensure that the green LED
is on when you turn on power.
About Your Computer
35
Bottom View
1
2
3
5
4
1
3
5
battery
2
battery release latch
battery charge/health gauge
4
memory module compartment
wireless mini-card compartment
MEMORY MODULE COMPARTMENT — Compartment that contains the DIMM 1 and
DIMM 2 memory modules. For additional information, see "Memory" on page 138.
WIRELESS MINI-CARD COMPARTMENT — Compartment for WLAN, WWAN, and
Flash Cache Module (FCM) Mini-Cards (see "Wireless Mini-Cards" on page 142).
BATTERY — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without
connecting the computer to an electrical outlet (see "Using a Battery" on page 43).
BATTERY CHARGE/HEALTH GAUGE — Provides information on the battery charge (see
"Checking the Battery Charge" on page 44).
BATTERY RELEASE LATCHES — Releases the battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on
page 48 for instructions).
36
About Your Computer
Using the Keyboard and Touchpad
Numeric Keypad
The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external
keyboard.
•
•
To enable the keypad, press <Num Lk>. The
keypad is active.
light indicates that the
To disable the keypad, press <Num Lk> again.
Key Combinations
System Functions
<Ctrl><Shift><Esc>
Opens the Task Manager window.
Display Functions
<Fn><F8>
Displays icons representing all currently available
display options (display only, external monitor or
projector only, both display and projector, etc).
Highlight the desired icon to switch the display
to that option.
<Fn> and up-arrow key
Increases brightness on the integrated display
only (not on an external monitor).
<Fn> and down-arrow key
Decreases brightness on the integrated display
only (not on an external monitor).
Battery
<Fn><F3>
Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter (see
"Dell QuickSet Battery Meter" on page 44).
Using the Keyboard and Touchpad
37
Power Management
<Fn><Esc>
Activates a power management mode. You can
reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a
different power management mode using the
Advanced tab in the Power Options
Properties window (see "Configuring Power
Management Settings" on page 46).
Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions
Windows logo key and <m>
Minimizes all open windows.
Windows logo key and
<Shift><m>
Restores all minimized windows. This key
combination functions as a toggle to restore
minimized windows following the use of the
Windows logo key and <m> combination.
Windows logo key and <e>
Windows logo key and <r>
Windows logo key and <f>
Starts Windows Explorer.
Opens the Run dialog box.
Opens the Search Results dialog box.
Windows logo key and <Ctrl><f> Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box
(if the computer is connected to a network).
Windows logo key and <Pause>
Windows logo key and <Tab>
Opens the System Properties dialog box.
3D Windows Flip on Windows Vista
Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations
If Dell QuickSet is installed, you can use other shortcut keys for functions
such as the Battery Meter or activating power management modes. For more
information about Dell QuickSet key combinations, right-click the QuickSet
icon in the notification area, and then click Help.
Adjusting Keyboard Settings
To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate:
1
2
3
Click Start
, and then click Control Panel.
Click Hardware and Sound
.
Click Keyboard.
38
Using the Keyboard and Touchpad
Touch Pad
The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow you
to move the cursor on the display. Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons
as you would use a mouse.
1
2
1
touch pad
2
silk screen depicting scrolling capabilities
•
•
To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad.
To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use
your thumb to press the left touch pad button.
•
•
To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and
tap twice on the touch pad. On the second tap, leave your finger on the touch
pad and move the selected object by sliding your finger over the surface.
To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on
the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch pad button twice.
Using the Keyboard and Touchpad
39
Customizing the Touch Pad
You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad or adjust
the touch pad settings.
1
2
3
4
Click Start
, and then click Control Panel.
Click Hardware and Sound
.
Click Mouse.
In the Mouse Properties window:
•
•
Click the Device Select tab to disable the touch pad.
Click the Touch Pad tab to adjust touch pad settings.
5
Click OK to save the settings and close the window.
40
Using the Keyboard and Touchpad
Using the Display
Adjusting Brightness
When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power
by setting the display brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing
<Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard.
NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable
computer, not monitors or projectors that you attach to your portable computer or
docking device. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to
change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter may appear, but the brightness
level on the external device does not change.
You can press the following keys to adjust display brightness:
•
Press <Fn> and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated
display only (not on an external monitor).
•
Press <Fn> and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the
integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
Switching the Video Image From Your Computer
Display To a Projector
When you start the computer with an external device attached (such as an
external monitor or projector) and turned on, the image may appear on either
the computer display or the external device.
Press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the
external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously.
Using the Display
41
Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate
NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image
may appear blurry or text may be hard to read if you change the resolution to one
not supported by your computer and display. Before you change any of the display
settings, make a note of the current settings so you can change back to the
previous settings if needed.
You can enhance the legibility of text and change the appearance of images
on the screen by adjusting display resolution. As you increase resolution,
items appear smaller on the screen. In contrast, lower resolution causes text
and images to appear larger and can benefit people with vision impairments.
To display a program at a specific resolution, both the video card and the
display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be
installed.
NOTE: Use only the Dell-provided video drivers, which are designed to offer the
best performance with your Dell-installed operating system. These drivers are
available on the Drivers and Utilities CD (optional) or via the web at
support.dell.com.
If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display
supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values.
To set the display resolution and refresh rate for your display:
1
2
3
Click Start
→
Control Panel.
Under Appearance and Personalization, click Adjust screen resolution
.
In the Display Settings window, under Resolution, move the slide bar to
the left or right to decrease/increase the screen resolution.
NOTE: For additional instructions, click How do I get the best display?
42
Using the Display
Using a Battery
Battery Performance
NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the
Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with
your computer.
For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings,
operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all
times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.
NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to
connect your new computer to an electrical outlet the first time you use the
computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the
battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, place the mouse cursor over
the battery icon in the Windows notification area.
NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases
over time. Depending on how often the battery is used and the conditions under
which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of
your computer.
NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet
when writing to media.
Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. Operating
time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not
limited to, the following:
•
•
Using optical drives.
Using wireless communications devices, ExpressCards, memory cards, or
USB devices.
•
•
Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other
power-intensive programs such as complex 3D graphics applications.
Running the computer in maximum performance mode (see "Configuring
Power Management Settings" on page 46 for information about accessing
Windows Power Options Properties which you can use to configure power
management settings).
Using a Battery
43
You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the
computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the
battery charge is low.
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 designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use batteries
from other computers with your computer.
CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery
no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or environmental agency
for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery (see "Battery Disposal" in the
Product Information Guide).
CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn.
Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures
above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or
leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause
personal injury or equipment damage.
Checking the Battery Charge
You can check the battery charge on your computer using any one of the
following methods:
•
•
•
•
Dell QuickSet Battery Meter
Microsoft Windows battery meter icon
located in the notification area
Battery charge/health gauge located on the battery
Low-battery warning pop-up window
Dell QuickSet Battery Meter
To view the Dell QuickSet Battery Meter:
•
Double-click the Dell QuickSet icon in the taskbar, and then click
Battery Meter
or
•
Press <Fn><F3>
The Battery Meter displays the status, battery health, charge level, and charge
completion time for the battery in your computer.
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon, and
then click Help.
44
Using a Battery
Microsoft® Windows® Battery Meter
The battery meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the
battery meter, double-click the
icon in the notification area.
Charge Gauge
By either pressing once or pressing and holding the status button on the
battery charge gauge, you can check:
•
•
Battery charge (check by pressing and releasing the status button)
Battery health (check by pressing and holding the status button)
The battery operating time is largely determined by the number of times it is
charged. After hundreds of charge and discharge cycles, batteries lose some
charge capacity—or battery health. Therefore, a battery can show a status of
charged, but maintain a reduced charge capacity (health).
Check the Battery Charge
To check the battery charge, press and release the status button on the battery
charge gauge to illuminate the charge indicator lights. Each light represents
approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if the
battery has 80 percent of its charge remaining, four of the lights are on. If no
lights are on, the battery has no charge.
Check the Battery Health
NOTE: You can check battery health in one of two ways: by using the charge gauge
on the battery, as described below, and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet.
area, and then click Help.
To check the battery health using the charge gauge, press and hold the status
button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds to illuminate the
health indicator lights. Each light represents incremental degradation. If no
lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its
original charge capacity remains. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the
charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See
"Battery" on page 164 for more information about the battery operating time.
Using a Battery
45
Low-Battery Warning
low-battery warning, then connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the
battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.
A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately
90 percent depleted. The computer enters hibernate mode when the battery
charge is at a critically low level.
You can change the settings for the battery alarms in Dell QuickSet or the
Power Options window. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on
page 46 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options
Properties window.
Conserving Battery Power
To conserve battery power on your portable computer, do any of the following:
•
•
Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible; battery life is
largely determined by the number of times the battery is used and recharged.
Configure the power management settings using either Dell QuickSet or
Microsoft Windows Power Options to optimize your computer’s power
usage (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 46).
•
Use the Sleep power state when you leave the computer unattended for
long periods of time (see "Using the Sleep Power State" on page 47).
Configuring Power Management Settings
You can use Dell QuickSet or Windows Power Options to configure the power
management settings on your computer.
•
•
For information on how to use the Dell QuickSet Power Management
wizard, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification area, click Help
and then select Power Management
,
.
To use Windows Power Options, do one of the following:
– Click Start Control Panel Hardware and Sound
→
Options, and then select a power plan in the Select a power plan window.
→
→
Power
or
–
Click the
icon in the notification area, click Power Options, and
then select a plan in the Select a power plan window.
46
Using a Battery
Using the Sleep Power State
Rather than shutting down your portable computer, use the Sleep power state to
conserve power. Sleep automatically saves your work to your hard drive, and then
returns you to your previous work session without restarting your computer.
NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in Sleep state, it may
lose data.
To enter Sleep state:
•
Click Start
→
→
Sleep.
or
•
Depending on how you set the power management options in the
Windows Power Options or Dell QuickSet, use one of the following
methods:
–
–
–
Press the power button.
Close the display.
Press <Fn><Esc>.
To exit Sleep state, press the power button.
Charging the Battery
When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery
while the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the computer checks
the battery charge and temperature. If necessary, the AC adapter then charges
the battery and maintains the battery charge.
If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot
environment, the battery may not charge when you connect the computer to
an electrical outlet.
The battery is too hot to start charging if the battery light
flashes
alternately blue and amber. Disconnect the computer from the electrical
outlet and allow the computer and the battery to cool to room temperature,
then connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue charging the
battery.
For more information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power
Problems" on page 111.
Using a Battery
47
Replacing the Battery
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 designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use batteries
from other computers with your computer.
CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect
the AC adapter from the electrical outlet and the computer, disconnect the modem
from the wall connector and the computer, and remove any other external cables
from the computer.
NOTICE: You must remove all external cables from the computer to avoid possible
connector damage.
NOTICE: If you choose to replace the battery with the computer in standby mode,
you have up to 1 minute to complete the battery replacement before the computer
shuts down and loses any unsaved data.
To remove the battery:
1
2
Ensure that the computer is turned off.
Slide the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and
then remove the battery from the bay.
1
2
1
battery
2
battery release latch
To replace the battery, follow the removal procedure in reverse order.
48
Using a Battery
50
Using a Battery
Using Multimedia
Playing Media
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing media.
NOTE: This system supports only 12cm discs.
1
2
Press the eject button located above the keyboard on the center-control cover.
Slide the disc, label side up, in the drive opening.
1
1
drive opening
To format media for storing or copying data, see the media software that
came with your computer.
NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when copying media.
A CD player includes the following basic buttons:
Play
Move backward within the current track
Pause
Move forward within the current track
Stop
Go to the previous track
Eject
Go to the next track
Using Multimedia
51
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 media, click Help on the media player
(if available).
Playing Media Using Dell Travel Remote
The Dell Travel Remote is designed to control Dell Media Direct and
Windows Vista™ Media Center. It can work only with specified computers.
For more details, refer to the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
To play media using Dell Travel Remote:
1
2
3
Install the CR2106 coin-cell battery into your remote control.
Launch Windows Vista Media Center from Start
→
Programs.
Use the remote control buttons to play media.
52
Using Multimedia
1
2
3
18
17
4
5
6
7
16
15
14
8
9
13
12
10
11
1
Infrared Transmitter
Page Down
OK/Enter/Select
Arrow Down
Forward
2
Page Up
3
4
Arrow Up
Arrow Right
Play/Pause
Skip Forward
Skip Back
Back
5
6
7
8
9
10
12
14
16
18
11
13
15
17
Stop
Reverse
Arrow Left
Mute
Volume Down
Volume Up
Using Multimedia
53
Copying CD, DVD, and Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) Media
NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws while copying media.
NOTE: The types of optical drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
This section applies only to computers that have a DVD+/-RW, Combo, or
BD-RE drive.
The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD, DVD or
BD using Roxio Creator. You can also use Roxio Creator for other purposes, such
as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up
important data. For help, open Roxio Creator, and then press <F1>.
The DVD drives and BD drives installed in Dell computers do not support
HD-DVD media. For a list of supported media formats, see "Using Blank CD,
DVD, and BD Media" on page 55.
How to Copy a CD, DVD or BD
NOTE: Most commercial DVDs and BDs have copyright protection and cannot be
copied using Roxio Creator Plus.
NOTE: BD media can only be copied to other BD media.
NOTE: Copying a BD-R to BD-RE does not produce an exact copy.
1
2
3
Click Start
→
All Programs
→
Roxio Creator
→
Projects
→
Copy
.
Under the Copy tab, click Copy Disc
.
To copy the CD, DVD or BD:
•
If you have one optical drive, insert the source disc into the drive,
ensure that the settings are correct, and then click the Copy Disc
button to continue. The computer reads your source disc and copies
the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.
When prompted, insert a blank disc into the drive and click OK
.
•
If you have two optical drives, select the drive into which you have
inserted your source disc and click the Copy Disc button to continue.
The computer copies the data from the source disc to the blank disc.
Once you have finished copying the source disc, the disc that you have
created automatically ejects.
54
Using Multimedia
Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media
DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.
BD-writable drives can write to CD, DVD and BD recording media.
Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After
creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic
documentation for more information). Use a blank CD-RW if you plan to
erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.
Blank DVD+/-R or BD-R media can be used to permanently store large
amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R or BD-R, you may not
be able to write to that disc again if the disc is finalized or closed during the
final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+/-RW or BD-RE
media if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.
CD-Writable/DVD-ROM Drives
Media Type
CD-R
Read
Yes
Write
Yes
Rewritable
No
CD-RW
Yes
Yes
Yes
DVD-Writable Drives and Combo Drives
Media Type
CD-R
Read
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Write
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Rewritable
No
CD-RW
Yes
DVD+R
No
DVD-R
No
DVD+RW
DVD-RW
DVD+R DL
DVD-R DL
Yes
Yes
No
No
Using Multimedia
55
Blu-ray Drives
Media Type
CD-R
Read
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Write
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Rewritable
No
CD-RW
DVD+R
DVD-R
Yes
No
No
DVD+RW
DVD-RW
DVD+R DL
DVD-R DL
BD-R
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
BD-RE
Yes
Helpful Tips
®
®
•
Use Microsoft Windows Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or
CD-RW only after you start Roxio Creator Plus and open a Creator project.
•
Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos.
CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos.
•
•
You cannot create audio DVDs with Roxio Creator Plus.
Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that
have MP3 software installed.
•
•
•
Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may
not support all available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by
your DVD player, see the documentation provided with your DVD player
or contact the manufacturer.
Commercially available BD players used in home theater systems may not
support all available BD formats. For a list of formats supported by your
BD player, see the documentation provided with your BD player or contact
the manufacturer.
Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for
example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-RW
drive needs 1–2 MB of blank space to finalize the recording.
56
Using Multimedia
•
Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with
CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on
the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank CD-RWs to test music
file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.
•
See the Sonic website at sonic.com for additional information.
Adjusting the Volume
NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the media playing.
1
2
3
Right-click the volume icon in the notification area.
Click Open Volume Mixer
.
Click and drag the bar to slide it up or down to increase or decrease the
volume.
For more information on volume control options, click Help in the
Volume Mixer window.
The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your
computer. Either click the QuickSet icon in the notification area and select or
deselect Disable On Screen Volume Meter, or press the volume control
buttons to enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen.
1
2
3
1
3
volume icon
mute icon
2
volume meter
Using Multimedia
57
When the meter is enabled, adjust the volume with the volume control
buttons or by pressing the following keys:
•
•
•
Press <Fn> <PageUp> to increase volume.
Press <Fn> <PageDn> to decrease volume.
Press <Fn> <End> to mute volume.
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and
click Help.
Adjusting the Picture
If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth
are using too much memory and preventing media playback, adjust the
display properties:
1
2
Click the Start
→
Control Panel
→
Appearance and Personalization.
Under Personalization, click Adjust Screen Resolution
.
The Display Properties window appears.
3
4
5
Under Resolution, click and drag the bar reduce the resolution setting.
In the drop-down menu under Colors, click Medium (16 bit)
Click OK
.
.
Using Dell MediaDirect™
Dell MediaDirect is an instant-on multimedia playback mode for digital
media. Press the Dell MediaDirect button, located on the hinge cover, to
launch Dell MediaDirect. When your computer is turned off or in Sleep
state, you can press the Dell MediaDirect button to start the computer and
automatically launch the Dell MediaDirect application.
58
Using Multimedia
1
1
Dell MediaDirect button
NOTE: If you voluntarily reformat the hard drive, reinstall Dell MediaDirect using
the Dell MediaDirect re-installation media that was shipped with your computer.
For more information, see the Reinstalling Dell MediaDirect techsheet that
accompanied your computer.
For more information on using Dell MediaDirect, use the Help menu in the
Dell MediaDirect application.
Connecting Your Computer to a TV or
Audio Device
NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio
device may not be included with your computer. Cables and TV/digital audio
adapter cables are available for purchase from Dell.
Your computer has an S-Video TV-out connector and a HDMI connector that
enable you to connect the computer to a TV with the help of either a
standard S-Video cable, a composite video adapter cable, HDMI cable or a
component video adapter cable (available from Dell).
Using Multimedia
59
Your TV has either an S-Video input connector, a composite video-input connector,
or a component video-input connector. Depending on what type of connector is
available on your TV, you can use a commercially available S-video cable, composite
video cable, or component video cable to connect your computer to your TV.
.
1
2
1
S-Video TV-out connector
2
2
S-Video connector
1
3
4
5
1
3
5
S-Video TV-out connector
S/PDIF digital audio connector*
S-Video connector
2
4
composite video adapter
composite video-output connector
*S/PDIF interface is not supported on your system’s S-Video port.
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
3
5
S-Video TV-out connector
2
4
6
component video adapter
S/PDIF digital audio connector*
Pr (red) component video-output connector
Pb (blue) component video-output
connector
Y (green) component video-output
connector
*S/PDIF interface is not supported on your system’s S-Video port.
60
Using Multimedia
S-Video and Standard Audio
1
2
1
audio connector
2
S-Video TV-out connector
1
2
1
standard S-Video cable
2
standard audio cable
1
Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to
connect.
NOTE: If your TV or audio device supports S-Video but not S/PDIF digital audio, you
can connect an S-Video cable directly to the S-Video TV-out connector on the
computer (without the TV/digital audio adapter cable).
2
3
Plug one end of the S-Video cable into the S-Video output connector on
the computer.
Plug the other end of the S-Video cable into the S-Video input connector
on your TV.
62
Using Multimedia
4
5
6
7
Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone
connector on your computer.
Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the
audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device.
Turn on the TV and any audio device that you connected (if applicable),
and then turn on the computer.
See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 67 to ensure that the
computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
Component Video and Standard Audio
1
3
2
1
3
audio input connector
2
S-Video TV-out connector
component video adapter
Using Multimedia
63
1
2
3
1
3
component video adapter
standard audio cable
2
component video cable
1
2
Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect.
Connect the component video adapter to the S-Video TV-out connector
on your computer.
3
Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-
output connectors on the component video adapter. Make sure that the red,
green, and blue colors of the cable match the corresponding adapter ports.
1
2
1
component video adapter
2
component video cable
64
Using Multimedia
4
Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable
into the component video-input connectors on the TV. Make sure that the
red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the colors of the TV input
connectors.
5
6
7
8
Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone
connector on the computer.
Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the
audio input connectors on your TV or audio device.
Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if
applicable), and then turn on the computer.
See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 67 to ensure that the
computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
Composite Video and Standard Audio
1
2
3
1
3
audio input connector
2
S-Video TV-out connector
composite video adapter
Using Multimedia
65
1
2
3
1
3
composite video adapter
standard audio cable
2
composite video cable
1
2
3
Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to
connect.
Connect the composite video adapter to the S-Video TV-out connector on
your computer.
Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video-
output connector on the composite video adapter.
1
2
1
composite video adapter
2
composite video cable
4
Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite video-
input connector on the TV.
66
Using Multimedia
5
6
7
8
Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone
connector on the computer.
Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the
audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device.
Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if
applicable), and then turn on the computer.
See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 67 to ensure that the
computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
Enabling the Display Settings for a TV
NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the
computer before you enable the display settings.
1
1
Click Start
→
Control Panel
→
Appearance and Personalization
.
Under Personalization, click Adjust Screen Resolution
.
The Display Properties window appears.
2
3
Click Advanced
.
Click the tab for your video card.
NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see
Windows Help and Support. To access Help and Support, click Start
and Support. Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view your computer information
→
Help
and diagnose problems. Then, under My Computer Information, select Hardware.
4
In the display devices section, select the appropriate option for using
either a single display or multiple displays, ensuring that the display
settings are correct for your selection.
Using Multimedia
67
68
Using Multimedia
Using the Camera
The camera and its integrated dual digital microphones allow you to take
photos and videos and to communicate visually and verbally with other
computer users. The blue camera light appears when the camera is turned on.
For more information about camera features, see "Specifications" on
page 159.
NOTE: It is normal for the camera to feel warm to the touch when the computer is
running and when the camera is in use.
2
1
3
1
camera indicator
2
camera
3
dual digital microphones
Accessing the Camera’s Help File
To access the camera’s Video Software Help file, right-click the
notification area and click Launch Webcam Center. Click Help from the
icon in the
menu and select Contents.
Using the Camera
69
Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings
If you do not want the camera to use automatic settings, you can manually
adjust the camera settings.
1
2
Right-click the
icon in the notification area and click
Launch Webcam Console
In the Webcam Console window:
•
Click the Camera tab to adjust video settings, such as contrast and
brightness.
•
Click the Effects tab to adjust audio settings, such as the volume level.
For more information about camera settings and other camera-related topics,
see the camera’s Video Software Help file (see "Accessing the Camera’s Help
File" on page 69).
Creating a Picture or a Video
1
Click the
To take a picture, click the Photo Capture tab and then click Start
To record a video, click the Video Recording tab and then click Start
icon in the notification area and click Launch Webcam Center
.
2
.
.
The blue camera light turns on. You can now direct the camera to point at
the object or person that you want to record. The screen shows you the
camera target view.
3
To take a picture, click Capture
To record a video, click Record
.
.
Unless you designate a different location, the picture or video is
automatically saved to the My Documents Dell Webcam Center folder
on your hard drive.
→
For more information about creating pictures or videos, see the camera’s
Video Software Help file (see "Accessing the Camera’s Help File" on page 69).
70
Using the Camera
Using ExpressCards
ExpressCards provide additional memory, wired and wireless
communications, multimedia and security features. For example, you can add
an ExpressCard to make wireless wide area network (WWAN) connectivity
available on your computer.
ExpressCards support two form factors:
•
•
ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide)
ExpressCard/54 (54 mm wide in an L-shape with a 34 mm connector)
The 34 mm card fits into both the 34 mm and 54 mm card slots. The 54 mm
card only fits into a 54 mm card slot.
See "Specifications" on page 159 for information on supported ExpressCards.
NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.
1
2
1
ExpressCard/34
2
ExpressCard/54
ExpressCard Blanks
Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the ExpressCard slot.
Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for
use when no ExpressCard is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers
may not fit your computer.
Remove the blank before installing an ExpressCard. To remove the blank, see
"Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 72.
Using ExpressCards
71
Installing an ExpressCard
You can install an ExpressCard while the computer is running. The computer
automatically detects the card.
ExpressCards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an
arrow) or a label to indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are
keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the
documentation that came with the card.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
To install an ExpressCard:
1
2
Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the slot and the
top side of the card facing up.
Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector.
If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the
card orientation and try again.
The computer recognizes the ExpressCard and automatically loads the
appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the
manufacturer's drivers, use the media that came with the ExpressCard.
Removing an ExpressCard or Blank
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
Press the card or blank into the slot to release it from the card reader. When it
is partially ejected, remove the card or blank.
Save a blank to use when no ExpressCard is installed in a slot. Blanks protect
unused slots from dust and other particles.
72
Using ExpressCards
Using the Memory Card Reader
The memory card reader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share
digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card.
NOTE: A memory card is not a bootable device.
The 8-in-1 memory card reader reads the following memory cards:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Secure Digital (SD)
Secure Digital Input/Output (SDIO)
MultiMediaCard (MMC)
Memory Stick
Memory Stick PRO
xD-Picture Card
Hi Speed-SD
Hi Density-SD
Memory Card Blanks
Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the 8-in-1 memory
card reader. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save
the blank for use when no memory card is installed in the slot; blanks from
other computers may not fit your computer.
Remove the blank before installing a memory card. To remove the blank, see
"Removing a Memory Card or Blank" on page 74.
Installing a Memory Card
You can install a 8-in-1 memory card in the computer while the computer is
running. The computer automatically detects the card.
Memory cards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an
arrow) or a label to indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are
keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the
documentation that came with the card.
Using the Memory Card Reader
73
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
To install a memory card:
1
2
Hold the card with the top side of the card facing up.
Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its
connector.
If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the
card orientation and try again.
The computer recognizes the memory card and automatically loads the
appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the
manufacturer's drivers, use the media that came with the memory card, if
applicable.
Removing a Memory Card or Blank
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: Click the
icon in the notification area to select a card and stop it
from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the
card, you could lose data.
Press the card into the slot to release it from the card reader. When it is
partially ejected, remove the card.
74
Using the Memory Card Reader
Setting Up and Using Networks
Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer
and the Internet, another computer, or a network. For example, with a
network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer,
access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or access
the Internet. You can set up a local area network (LAN) using a network or
broadband modem cable or set up a wireless LAN (WLAN).
®
The Microsoft Windows Vista™ operating system provides a wizard to help
guide you through the process of networking computers. For more
information about Networking, access Windows Help and Support
(click Start
,
and then click Help and Support).
Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable
Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a
network adapter installed and a network cable connected to it.
1
Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back
of your computer.
NOTE: Insert the cable connector until it clicks into place, and then gently
pull on the cable to ensure that it is securely attached.
2
Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection
device or a network wall connector.
NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall connector.
Setting Up and Using Networks
75
Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows
Vista® Operating System
1
2
3
Click Start
Select an option under Choose a connection option
Click Next, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.
→
Connect To
→
Set up a connection or network.
.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a series of interconnected computers
that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a
network cable connected to each computer. In a WLAN, a radio
communications device called an access point or wireless router connects
network computers and provides Internet, or network access. The access
point or wireless router and the wireless network card in the computer
communicate by broadcasting data from their antennas over the air waves.
What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection
Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:
•
•
•
•
High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL)
A broadband modem that is connected and working
A wireless router or access point
A wireless network card for each computer that you want to connect to
your WLAN
•
A network cable with a network (RJ-45) connector
Checking Your Wireless Network Card
Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the
computer has a variety of configurations. To confirm that your computer has
a wireless network card and to determine the type of card, use:
•
•
The Device Manager
The order confirmation for your computer
76
Setting Up and Using Networks
Device Manager
1
2
3
Click Start
Click Classic View on the menu on the left side of the Control Panel
Double-click Device Manager
, and then click Control Panel.
.
.
NOTE: The User Account Control window may open.
4
5
Click Continue on the User Account Control window if it opens.
Click the
+
next to Network adapters to list the utility that manages your
wireless network card.
If a network adapter is not listed, you may not have a wireless network card.
If a network adapter is listed, you have a wireless network card. To view
detailed information about the wireless network card:
1
2
Right-click the name of the network adapter.
Click Properties
.
The Order Confirmation for Your Computer
The order confirmation that you received when you ordered your computer
lists the hardware and software that shipped with your computer.
Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a
Broadband Modem
1
Contact your Internet service provider (ISP) to obtain specific information
about the connection requirements for your broadband modem.
2
Ensure that you have wired Internet access through your broadband
modem before you attempt to set up a wireless Internet connection (see
"Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable" on page 75).
3
Install any software required for your wireless router. Your wireless router
may have been shipped with installation media. Installation media usually
contains installation and troubleshooting information. Install the required
software according to the instructions provided by the router
manufacturer.
4
5
Shut down your computer and any other wireless-enabled computers in
the vicinity through the Windows Vista Start button
.
Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.
Setting Up and Using Networks
77
6
7
Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem.
Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that
there is no power connected to the router.
NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband
modem before continuing with the network setup.
8
9
Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the
unpowered broadband modem.
Connect the other end of the network cable into the Internet network
(RJ-45) connector on the unpowered wireless router.
10 Ensure that no network or USB cables, other than the network cable
connecting the modem and the wireless router, are connected to the
broadband modem.
NOTE: Restart your wireless equipment in the order described below to prevent a
potential connection failure.
11 Turn on only your broadband modem and wait for at least 2 minutes for
the broadband modem to stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to step 12.
12 Turn on your wireless router and wait for at least 2 minutes for the wireless
router to stabilize. After 2 minutes, proceed to the step 13.
13 Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes.
14 See the documentation that came with your wireless router to do the
following in order to set up the wireless router:
•
•
•
Establish communication between your computer and your
wireless router.
Configure your wireless router to communicate with your
broadband router.
Find out your wireless router’s broadcast name. The technical term for
the name of your router’s broadcast name is Service Set Identifier (SSID)
or network name.
15 If necessary, configure your wireless network card to connect to the wireless
network (see "Connecting to a WLAN" on page 79).
78
Setting Up and Using Networks
Connecting to a WLAN
NOTE: Before you connect to a WLAN, ensure that you have followed the
instructions in "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 76.
NOTE: The following networking instructions do not apply to internal cards with
®
Bluetooth wireless technology or cellular products.
This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using
wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary.
See "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" on page 76 for more information
about how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.
Your wireless network card requires specific software and drivers for
connecting to a network. The software is already installed.
NOTE: If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions in the user
documentation for your wireless network card. Verify the type of wireless network
card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support
website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that
is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on page 76.
Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager
Depending on the software installed on your computer, different wireless
configuration utilities may manage your network devices:
•
•
Your wireless network card’s client utility
The Windows Vista operating system
To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless
network card in Windows Vista:
1
2
Click Start
→
Connect To→ Manage wireless networks.
Double-click a profile to open the wireless network properties screen.
For specific information about the wireless configuration utility installed on
your computer, see your wireless network documentation in the Windows
Help and Support Center (see "Windows Help and Support" on page 16).
Completing the Connection to the WLAN
When you turn on your computer and a network (for which your computer is
not configured) is detected in the area, a pop-up appears near the network icon
in the notification area (in the lower-right corner of the Windows desktop).
Setting Up and Using Networks
79
Follow the instructions provided in any utility prompts that appear on your
screen.
Once you have configured your computer for a wireless network, another pop-up
notifies you that your computer is connected to that network.
Thereafter, whenever you log on to your computer within the range of the
wireless network that you selected, the same pop-up notifies you of the
wireless network connection.
NOTE: If you select a secure network, you must enter a Wired Equivalent Privacy
(WEP) or Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) key when prompted. Network security
settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information.
NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.
Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet
The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the
status of your computer’s wireless devices. To turn the wireless activity
indicator on or off, click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Hotkey
Popups. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is not checked, the indicator is on.
If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is checked, the indicator is off.
The wireless activity indicator displays whether your computer’s integrated
wireless devices are enabled or disabled. When you turn the wireless
networking function on or off, the wireless activity indicator changes to
display the status.
For more information about the Dell QuickSet wireless activity indicator,
right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar, and then select Help.
Mobile Broadband/Wireless Wide Area Network
(WWAN)
A Mobile Broadband network, also known as a Wireless Wide Area Network
(WWAN), is a high-speed digital cellular network that provides Internet
access over a much wider geographical area than a WLAN, which typically
covers only from 100 to 1000 feet. Your computer can maintain Mobile
Broadband network access as long as the computer is within a cellular-data
coverage zone. Contact your service provider for coverage of a high-speed
digital cellular network.
80
Setting Up and Using Networks
NOTE: Even if you are able to make a call from your cellular phone in a specific
geographical location, that location may not necessarily be within a cellular-data
coverage zone.
What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection
NOTE: Depending on your computer, you can use either a Mobile Broadband
ExpressCard or Mini-Card, but not both, to establish a Mobile Broadband network
connection.
To set up a Mobile Broadband network connection, you need:
•
A Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or Mini-Card (depending on your
computer’s configuration)
NOTE: For instructions on using ExpressCards, see "Using ExpressCards" on
page 71.
•
•
An activated Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or activated Subscriber
Identity Module (SIM) for your service provider
The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility (already installed on your
computer if you purchased the card when you purchased your computer, or
on the media that accompanied your card if purchased separately from
your computer)
If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell
Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide in Windows Help and
Support (click Start
→
accompanied your card if you purchased it separately from your computer.
Help and Support) or on the media that
Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card
Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the
computer has a variety of configurations. To determine your computer
configuration, see one of the following:
•
•
Your order confirmation
Microsoft Windows Help and Support
Setting Up and Using Networks
81
To check your Mobile Broadband card in the Windows Help and Support Center:
1
2
Click Start
→
information and diagnose problems
Help and Support
→
Use Tools to view your computer
.
Under Tools, click My Computer Information
→
Find information about
the hardware installed on this computer.
On the My Computer Information - Hardware screen, you can view the type
of Mobile Broadband card installed in your computer as well as other
hardware components.
NOTE: The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems.
Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network
NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mobile Broadband ExpressCards or Mini-
Cards. They do not apply to internal cards with wireless technology.
NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate Mobile Broadband
service through your cellular service provider. For instructions and for additional
information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide
available through Windows Help and Support (click Start
→ Help and Support).
The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com
and on the media included with your Mobile Broadband card if you purchased the
card separately from your computer.
Use the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility to establish and manage a
Mobile Broadband network connection to the Internet:
1
2
Click the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon
notification area to run the utility.
in the Windows
Click Connect
.
NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button.
3
Follow the instructions on the screen to manage the network connection
with the utility.
OR
1
2
Click Start
→
All Programs
→
Dell Wireless.
Click Dell Wireless Broadband and follow the instructions on the screen.
82
Setting Up and Using Networks
Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card
you have all the components for establishing a Mobile Broadband connection (see
"What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection" on page 81),
and then verify that your Mobile Broadband card is enabled by verifying the setting
of the wireless switch.
You can turn your Mobile Broadband card on and off using the wireless switch
on your computer.
You can turn your computer’s wireless devices on and off with the wireless
switch on the right side of the computer (see "Right Side View" on page 32).
If the switch is in the on position, move the switch to the off position to
disable the switch and the Mobile Broadband card. If the switch is in the off
position, move the switch to the on position to enable the switch and the Dell
Mobile Broadband card. For information about the wireless switch positions,
see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 83.
the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet" on page 80.
Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator
The wireless switch on your Dell computer uses the Dell Wi-Fi Catcher
Network Locator to scan for wireless networks in your vicinity.
To scan for a wireless network, press the Wi-Fi catcher button (see "Right
Side View" on page 32) for a few seconds. The Wi-Fi Catcher Network
Locator functions regardless of whether your computer is turned on or off, or
in Sleep state, as long as the switch is configured through Dell QuickSet or
the BIOS (system setup program) to control WiFi network connections.
The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator is enabled and configured for use when
your computer is shipped to you.
For more information on the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator and to enable
the feature through Dell QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the
notification area, and then select Help.
Setting Up and Using Networks
83
84
Setting Up and Using Networks
Securing Your Computer
Security Cable Lock
NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock.
A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the
lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell computer. For more
information, see the instructions included with the device.
NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the
security cable slot on your computer.
Securing Your Computer
85
Passwords
Passwords prevent unauthorized access to your computer. When using
passwords, observe the following guidelines:
•
•
Choose a password that you can remember, but not one that is easy to
guess. For example, do not use the names of family members or pets for
passwords.
It is recommended that you do not write down your password. If you do
write it down, however, ensure that the password is stored in a secure
location.
•
•
Do not share your password with other people.
Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password.
NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or
hard drive. However, they are not foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and
use additional forms of protection such as data encryption programs.
®
®
Use the User Accounts option in the Control Panel in the Microsoft Windows
operating system to create user accounts or to change passwords. Once you
create a user password, you must enter it each time you turn on or unlock
your computer. If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the
computer returns to its previous operating state.
For more information, see your Windows documentation.
If you forget any of your passwords, such as the hard drive and BIOS
passwords, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158). For your
protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity
to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.
Fingerprint Reader
You can use the Fingerprint Reader Suite to add biometric security to your
computer. The Fingerprint Reader Suite gives you the ability to enhance your
security in the following ways:
•
Associate digitized images of your fingerprints with your user name,
password, and generated security keys in your own secure passport
•
Use the fingerprint reader to manage OS-level authentication
86
Securing Your Computer
•
Register applications and web pages in a password bank so that you can use
the fingerprint reader to enter your password
•
•
Launch a favorite application by swiping your finger over the fingerprint reader
Store confidential information in an encrypted folder
If for some reason, the fingerprint reader is damaged, a backup password can
be used to access the function of Fingerprint Reader Suite. The backup
password can be created during enrollment.
Computer Tracking Software
Computer tracking software may enable you to locate your computer if it is
lost or stolen. The software is optional and may be purchased when you order
your Dell™ computer, or you can contact your Dell sales representative for
information about this security feature.
NOTE: Computer tracking software may not be available in certain countries.
NOTE: If you have computer tracking software and your computer is lost or stolen,
you must contact the company that provides the tracking service to report the
missing computer.
If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen
•
Call a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer.
Include the Service Tag in your description of the computer. Ask that a
case number be assigned and write down the number, along with the
name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. If
possible, obtain the name of the investigating officer.
NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement
agency in that area. If you do not know, call a law enforcement agency where you live.
•
•
If the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of the
company.
Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer. Provide the
computer Service Tag, the case number, and the name, address, and phone
number of the law enforcement agency to which you reported the missing
computer. If possible, give the name of the investigating officer.
Securing Your Computer
87
The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the
computer Service Tag and record the computer as missing or stolen. If
someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives your Service Tag, the
computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen. The representative
will attempt to get the phone number and address of the caller. Dell will then
contact the law enforcement agency to which you reported the missing
computer.
88
Securing Your Computer
Troubleshooting
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.
To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to
support.dell.com/technicalupdate.
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in
"Lockups and Software Problems" on page 107 and run the Dell Diagnostics
before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.
NOTE: The Dell Diagnostics only operate on Dell computers.
Enter system setup program, review your computer’s configuration
information, and ensure that the device you want to test displays in the
system setup program and is active (see "Using the System Setup Program" on
page 169).
Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from your Drivers and
Utilities media (see "Drivers and Utilities Media" on page 13).
Troubleshooting
89
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on
your hard drive.
NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see
"Contacting Dell" on page 158).
NOTE: If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See
the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.
1
Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is
known to be working properly.
2
3
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
Start the Dell Diagnostics in one of the following two ways:
a
When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select
Diagnostics from the boot menu, and then press <Enter>.
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.
NOTE: Before attempting option B, the computer must be powered down
completely.
b
Press and hold the <Fn> key while powering the computer on.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has
been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities media.
The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment (PSA), a series of initial
tests of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, etc.
•
•
During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the
assessment and restart the computer, press <n>; to continue to the
next test, press <y>; to retest the component that failed, press <r>.
•
If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down
the error code(s) and contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you receive the
message Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition.
Press any key to continue.
4
Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility
partition on your hard drive.
90
Troubleshooting
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media
1
2
Insert your Drivers and Utilities media.
Shut down and restart the computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
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.
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.
NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down
for extended periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and
release <F12> in even intervals until the boot device menu appears.
3
At the boot device menu, use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight
CD/DVD/CD-RW, and then press <Enter>.
NOTE: The Quickboot feature changes the boot sequence for the current
boot only. Upon restart, the computer boots according to the boot sequence
specified in the system setup program.
4
Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears, and
then press <Enter>.
5
6
Type
1
to start the Drivers and Utilities menu, and then press <Enter>.
Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple
versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer.
7
At the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu, select the test you want to run.
NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they
appear and follow the instructions on the screen.
8
9
After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell
Diagnostics Main Menu
.
Remove your Drivers and Utilities media, then close the Main Menu
window to exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer.
Troubleshooting
91
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the
button for the option you want.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test Systemto run a complete test
on your computer.
Option
Function
Test Memory
Test System
Exit
Run the stand-alone memory test
Run System Diagnostics
Exit the Diagnostics
After you have selected the Test Systemoption from the main menu, the
following menu appears.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Testfrom the menu to
run a more thorough check of the devices in the computer.
Option
Function
Express Test
Performs a quick test of system devices.
The test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes
and requires no interaction on your part.
Run Express Test first to increase the
possibility of tracing the problem quickly.
Extended Test Performs a thorough check of system
devices. The test typically takes an hour
or more and periodically requires your
input to answer specific questions.
Custom Test
Tests a specific device in the system and
can be used to customize the tests you want
to run.
Symptom Tree
Lists a number of common symptoms and
allows you to select a test based on the
symptom of the problem you are having.
92
Troubleshooting
For any problem encountered during a test, a message appears with an error
code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem
description exactly as it appears and follow the instructions on the screen. If you
cannot resolve the problem, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen.
When contacting Dell support, have your Service Tag ready.
The following tabs provide additional information for tests run from the
Custom Test or Symptom Tree option:
Tab
Function
Results
Displays the results of the test and any
error conditions encountered.
Errors
Help
Displays error conditions encountered,
error codes, and the problem description.
Describes the test and any requirements for
running the test.
Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for
the selected device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration
information for all devices from the system
setup program, 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.
Dell Support Center
The Dell Support Center provides service, support and system-specific
information. For more information about Dell Support Center and available
support tools, click the Services tab at support.dell.com.
Computers purchased on June 26, 2007, and later are pre-installed with Dell
Support Center.
Troubleshooting
93
For computers purchased prior to June 26, 2007, you can download Dell
Support Center from the Services page at support.dell.com.
Click the Dell Support Center icon
on your computer’s desktop to run
the application and to access the following features:
•
Self-help tools such as, Dell Support 3, Dell PC Tune-Up, Dell PC
CheckUp, and Network Assistant
•
•
DellConnect for remote, real-time, technical support
Dell support contact information including e-mail and online chat
addresses as well as telephone numbers
•
Resources specific to your computer are available under Drivers &
Downloads, Upgrades and System Information
The top of the Dell Support Center home page displays your computer’s
model number along with its Service Tag, Express Service code, and warranty
expiration details. When permissions are given to Dell to use your Service
Tag, additional details about your computer, such as available memory, disk
space, installed hardware, network addresses, modem specifications, installed
security software, and much more are provided. In addition, using your
Service Tag, Dell can link you to the most relevant www.dell.com web pages
for information about your warranty, ordering accessories and details about
installing recommended drivers and downloads.
Dell Support 3
The Dell Support 3 is customized for your computing environment. This
utility provides self-support information, software updates, and health scans
for your computer. Use this utility for the following functions:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Check your computing environment
View the Dell Support 3 settings
Access the Dell Support 3 help file
View frequently asked questions
Learn more about Dell Support 3
Turn Dell Support 3 off
For more information about Dell Support 3, click the question mark (?) at the
top of the Dell Support 3 window.
94
Troubleshooting
To access Dell Support 3:
•
Click the Dell Support 3 icon
Windows desktop.
in the notification area of your
NOTE: The icon functions vary depending on whether you click, double-
click, or right-click the icon.
or
®
®
•
Click the Microsoft Windows Vista Start button
→
All Programs→
Dell Support 3→ Dell Support Settings. Ensure that the Show icon on
the taskbar option is checked.
NOTE: If Dell Support 3 is not available from the Start menu, go to
support.dell.com and download the software.
Dell PC Tune-Up
The automated or monthly version of Dell PC Tune-Up allows you to choose
the day and time of the month you want your computer "tuned up". A typical
tune-up includes hard drive defragmentation, removal of unwanted and
temporary files, updated security settings, verification of "good" restore
points, and other maintenance activities designed to improve computer
performance and security. The monthly version is available as an annual
subscription and is a feature of Dell Support 3, a complimentary application
that provides real-time health scans and information on how to maintain your
computer (see "Dell Support Center" on page 93).
Both versions of PC Tune-Up are available to customers in the U.S. and
Canada. For the latest updates and to learn how to keep your computer
running at peak performance, search for the keyword PC TuneUp on
support.dell.com.
Dell PC CheckUp
Dell PC Checkup is a troubleshooting and diagnostic tool that provides
customized scanning and testing of your Dell computer. PC Checkup verifies
whether your hardware is working properly and provides automated fixes for
common configuration concerns. It is recommended that you run PC
Checkup on a regular basis or before contacting Dell for assistance. The
application creates a detailed report that Dell technicians can use to resolve
your issue quickly.
Troubleshooting
95
Dell Network Assistant
Designed specifically for users of Dell™ computers, the Dell Network
Assistant helps simplify the setup, monitoring, troubleshooting, and repair of
your network.
The Dell Network Assistant provides the following features:
•
•
Consolidated setup, alerting, and device status
Simplified tracking of networked devices through a visual display of
network status
•
•
Proactive troubleshooting and repair of network problems
Tutorials, setup wizards, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) to
enhance understanding of networking principles
To access Dell Network Assistant:
1
2
Click the Dell Support Center icon
on your computer’s desktop.
Network Management
Click Self Help→ Network / Internet
→
.
DellConnect
DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and
support associate to access your computer through an Internet connection,
diagnose your problem and repair it. The associate works with your
permission under your supervision, and you can work with Dell’s associate
during the troubleshooting session.
To use this service, you must have an Internet connection and your Dell
computer must be under warranty. DellConnect is also available for a fee
through "Dell On Call."
To begin a live session with a Dell associate:
1
2
Click the Dell Support Center icon
on your computer’s desktop.
DellConnect
Click Assistance From Dell→ Technical Support
Phone and follow the instructions.
→
→
96
Troubleshooting
Drive Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157 as you complete these checks.
®
®
ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT WINDOWS RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE —
•
Click Start
and click Computer
.
If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to
check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from
recognizing the drive.
TEST THE DRIVE —
•
that the original media is defective.
•
Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.
CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 172.
ENSURE THAT THE CD, DVD OR BD MEDIA IS SNAPPED ONTO THE SPINDLE
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Troubleshooting Software and
Hardware Problems in the Windows Vista® Operating System" on page 121.
RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89.
Optical drive problems
NOTE: High-speed optical drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which
does not indicate a defect in the drive or the media.
DVD titles work in all DVD drives.
Problems writing to an optical drive
CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, and BD-RE drives 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 drive.
TURN OFF SLEEP STATE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD/BD
DISC — See "Using the Sleep Power State" on page 47 for information on
Sleep state.
Troubleshooting
97
CHANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE — See the help files for your
CD, DVD, or BD creation software.
The drive makes an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound
•
•
Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running.
Ensure that the disc is inserted properly.
Hard drive problems
ALLOW THE COMPUTER TO COOL BEFORE TURNING IT ON — A hot hard drive may
prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to
return to room temperature before turning it on.
RUN CHECK DISK —
1
2
3
Click Start
Right-click Local Disk (C:)
Click Properties Tools Check Now
→
Computer.
.
→
→
.
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.
4
Click to check Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors, and then
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: The modem is an optional feature on this computer. You can purchase an
external modem through Dell. Therefore, the steps in this section only apply if you
have purchased an external modem.
®
CHECK THE MICROSOFT WINDOWS MAIL SECURITY SETTINGS — If you
cannot open your e-mail attachments:
®
1
2
In Windows Mail, click Tools
→
Options
→
Security
.
Click Do not allow attachments to remove the checkmark.
CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION
CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK
98
Troubleshooting
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 hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector
into the modem.
Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a
telephone, then listen for a dial tone.
If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering
machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them
and 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.
RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Click Start
→ Programs→
Modem Diagnostic Tool→ Modem Diagnostic Tool. Follow the instructions on
the screen to identify and resolve modem problems (Modem Diagnostic Utility is
not available on certain computers).
VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS —
1
Click Start
→
Control Panel
Modems
→
Hardware and Sound
→
Phone and
Modem Options
→
.
2
Click the COM port for your modem
Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with
Windows.
→
Properties
→
Diagnostics
→
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET — Ensure that you have
®
subscribed to an Internet service provider. With the Windows Mail e-mail
program open, click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the
checkmark to remove it, and then connect to the Internet. For help, contact
your Internet service provider.
SCAN THE COMPUTER FOR SPYWARE — If you are experiencing slow computer
performance, you frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having
problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with
spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection
(your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove
spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the
keyword spyware.
Troubleshooting
99
Error Messages
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157 as you complete these checks.
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
If the error message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating
system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
For an external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing
Device option in the system setup program (see "Using the System Setup
Program" on page 169). If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting
Dell" on page 158).
BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME — Ensure that you have spelled the command
correctly, put spaces in the proper place, and used the correct pathname.
CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE — The primary cache internal to the
microprocessor has failed. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to
commands from the computer (see "Drive Problems" on page 97).
DATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot read the data (see "Drive Problems" on
page 97).
DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY — One or more memory modules may be
faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,
replace them (see "Memory" on page 138).
DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the
hard drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89).
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 "Hard Drive" on
page 131).
ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD — The computer cannot identify the
ExpressCard. Reinsert the card or try another card (see "Using ExpressCards"
on page 71).
EXTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS CHANGED — The amount of memory recorded in
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 158).
100
Troubleshooting
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.
A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ <
> | — Do not use these characters in filenames.
GATE A20 FAILURE — A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory
GENERAL FAILURE — The operating system is unable to carry out the
command. The message is usually followed by specific information—for
HARD-DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION ERROR — The computer cannot identify the
drive type. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive"
computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard
Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89).
to commands from the computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard
drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 131), and boot the computer from a CD.
computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive
tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89).
HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE — The hard drive does not respond to commands
from the computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see
"Hard Drive" on page 131), and boot the computer from a CD. Then, shut
problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell
Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89).
HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE — The hard drive may be defective. Shut
down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 131),
and boot the computer from a CD. 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 89).
INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to
nonbootable media, such as a floppy disk or CD. Insert bootable media.
INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-PLEASE RUN SYSTEM SETUP
Troubleshooting
101
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 "Using the System Setup Program" on page 169).
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 89).
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 89).
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 89).
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 89).
LICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN DELL MEDIADIRECT — Dell
MediaDirect™ cannot verify the Digital Rights Management (DRM)
restrictions on the file, so the file cannot be played (see "Dell MediaDirect
problems" on page 108).
MEMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE —
A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory
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.
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 "Memory" on page 138).
MEMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC 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 "Memory" on page 138).
102
Troubleshooting
MEMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC 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 "Memory" on page 138).
MEMORY WRITE/READ 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 "Memory" on page 138).
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.
NO BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE — The operating system may be corrupted.
Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 89).
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.
OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND — Reinstall the hard drive (see "Hard Drive"
on page 131). If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on
page 158).
OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM — The optional ROM has failed. Contact
Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
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.
1
2
3
4
Click Start
Select the program you want to remove.
Click Uninstall
See the program documentation for installation instructions.
→
Control Panel
→
Programs
→
Programs and Features.
.
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. See Windows Help and Support for instructions (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.
Troubleshooting
103
SEEK ERROR — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the
hard drive.
Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on
page 89).
TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER — System configuration settings are
battery. If the problem persists, try to restore the data by entering the system
setup program, then immediately exit the program (see "Using the System
Setup Program" on page 169). If the message reappears, contact Dell (see
"Contacting Dell" on page 158).
TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED — The reserve battery that supports the system
configuration settings may require recharging. Connect your computer to an
electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, contact Dell
(see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
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.
Setup Program" on page 169).
TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED — A chip on the system board may be
malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 89).
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 89).
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.
104
Troubleshooting
ExpressCard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
into the connector.
CHECK THAT THE CARD IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS — Double-click the Safely
Remove Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Some cards do not support
this feature. If the card supports this Windows feature, the card will be listed.
IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED EXPRESSCARD — Contact Dell
(see "Contacting Dell" on page 158). Also, for Mobile Broadband (WWAN)
ExpressCards, see "Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network
[WWAN])" on page 111.
IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN EXPRESSCARD NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —
Contact the ExpressCard manufacturer.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTE: Your computer supports only IEEE 1394a standard.
ENSURE THAT THE CABLE FOR THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS PROPERLY INSERTED INTO
THE DEVICE AND INTO THE CONNECTOR ON THE COMPUTER
ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS ENABLED IN SYSTEM SETUP — See
"Viewing the System Setup Screen" on page 170.
ENSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —
1
Click Start
Manager
→
Control Panel
→
Hardware and Sound
→
Device
.
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.
If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.
IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A DELL-PROVIDED IEEE 1394 DEVICE — Contact
Dell or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
Troubleshooting
105
IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY DELL —
Contact Dell or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer (see "Contacting Dell" on
page 158).
Ensure that the IEEE 1394 device is properly inserted into the connector.
Keyboard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157 as you perform the various checks.
NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the
system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated
keyboard remains fully functional.
External Keyboard problems
NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains
fully functional.
CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — Shut down the computer, disconnect the
keyboard cable and check it for damage, and then firmly reconnect the cable.
If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the
keyboard directly to the computer.
CHECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD —
1
2
Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and then turn it on again.
Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard
blink during the boot routine.
3
4
From the Windows desktop, click Start
Accessories Notepad
→
All Programs
→
→
.
Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear
on the display.
If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.
TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD, CHECK THE
INTEGRATED KEYBOARD —
1
2
Shut down the computer.
Disconnect the external keyboard.
106
Troubleshooting
3
4
Turn on the computer.
From the Windows desktop, click Start
→
All Programs
→
Accessories
→
Notepad.
5
Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear
on the display.
If the characters appear now, but did not with the external keyboard, you
may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see "Contacting
Dell" on page 158).
RUN THE KEYBOARD DIAGNOSTICS TESTS — Run the PC-AT Compatible
Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89). If
the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell (see "Contacting
Dell" on page 158).
Unexpected characters
DISABLE THE NUMERIC KEYPAD — Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric
keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers
lock light is not lit.
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
CHECK THE AC ADAPTER — Ensure that the AC adapter 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.
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a
key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button
for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off, then restart your
computer.
Troubleshooting
107
A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly
END THE PROGRAM —
1
2
Press <Crtl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.
Click the Applications tab and select the program that is no longer
responding.
3
Click End Task.
NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the
instructions on the screen.
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — If necessary, uninstall and then
reinstall the program. Software usually includes installation instructions in its
documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.
A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows®
operating system
RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD — Program compatibility is a mode
in Windows that lets you run programs written for earlier versions of Windows.
For more information, search for the keyword program compatibility wizard in
Windows Help and Support.
A solid blue screen appears
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key
on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at
least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off, then restart your computer.
Dell MediaDirect problems
CHECK THE DELL MEDIADIRECT HELP FILE FOR INFORMATION — Use the Help
menu to access Dell MediaDirect Help.
TO PLAY MOVIES WITH DELL MEDIADIRECT, YOU MUST HAVE A DVD DRIVE AND
THE DELL DVD PLAYER — If you purchased a DVD drive with your computer,
this software should already be installed.
VIDEO QUALITY PROBLEMS — Turn off the Use Hardware Acceleration option.
This feature takes advantage of the special processing in some graphics cards
to reduce processor requirements when playing DVDs and certain types of
video files.
108
Troubleshooting
CANNOT PLAY SOME MEDIA FILES — Because Dell MediaDirect provides access
to media files outside the Windows operating system environment, access to
licensed content is restricted. Licensed content is digital content that has
Digital Rights Management (DRM) applied to it. The Dell MediaDirect
environment cannot verify the DRM restrictions, so the licensed files cannot
be played. Licensed music and video files have a lock icon next to them. You
can access licensed files in the Windows operating system environment.
ADJUSTING THE COLOR SETTINGS FOR MOVIES THAT CONTAIN SCENES THAT ARE
TOO DARK OR TOO BRIGHT — Click EagleVision to use a video enhancement
technology that detects video content and dynamically adjusts the
brightness/contrast/saturation ratios.
NOTICE: You cannot reinstall the Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat
the hard drive. Contact Dell for assistance (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
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
SCAN THE COMPUTER FOR SPYWARE — If you are experiencing slow computer
performance, you frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having
problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with
spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your
program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For
more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.
RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — If all tests run successfully, the error condition
is related to a software problem (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89).
Troubleshooting
109
Memory Problems
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157 as you complete these checks.
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 "Memory" on page 138)
.
communicating with the memory (see "Memory" on page 138)
.
Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89)
.
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —
•
•
•
Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully
communicating with the memory (see "Memory" on page 138)
.
Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see
"Memory" on page 138)
.
Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89)
.
Network Problems
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157 as you complete these checks.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR — Ensure that the network cable is
firmly inserted into both the network connector on the back of the computer
and the network jack.
CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR — No light
indicates that no network communication exists. Replace the network cable.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN
CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS — Contact your network administrator or
the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are
correct and that the network is functioning.
110
Troubleshooting
Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [WWAN])
NOTE: The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide and the Mobile
Broadband ExpressCard user’s guide are available through Windows Help and
Support (click Start → Help and Support). You can also download the Dell
Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide from support.dell.com.
NOTE: The icon appears in the notification area if the computer has a Dell
WWAN device installed. Double-click the icon to launch the utility.
ACTIVATE THE MOBILE BROADBAND EXPRESSCARD — You must activate the
Mobile Broadband ExpressCard before you can connect to the network.
Position the mouse over the
status of the connection. If the card is not activated, follow the card
activation instructions located within the Dell Mobile Broadband Card
Utility. To access the utility, double-click the icon located in the taskbar,
icon in the notification area to verify the
at the lower-right corner of your screen. If your ExpressCard is not a Dell-
branded card, see the manufacturer’s instructions for your card.
CHECK NETWORK CONNECTION STATUS IN THE DELL MOBILE BROADBAND CARD
UTILITY — Double-click the
icon to launch the Dell Mobile Broadband
Card Utility. Check the status in the main window:
•
•
No card detected — Restart the computer, and launch the Dell Mobile
Broadband Card Utility again.
Check your WWAN service — Contact your cellular service provider to
verify your plan coverage and supported services.
Power Problems
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157 as you complete these checks.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CHECK THE POWER LIGHT — When the power light is lit or blinking, the
computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in Sleep
state—press the power button to exit Sleep state. If the light is off, press the
power button to turn on the computer.
NOTE: For information on Sleep power state, see "Using the Sleep Power State" on
page 47.
Troubleshooting
111
CHARGE THE BATTERY — The battery charge may be depleted.
1
2
3
Reinstall the battery.
Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
Turn on the computer.
NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases
over time. Depending on how often the battery is used and the conditions under
which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your
computer.
CHECK THE BATTERY STATUS LIGHT — If the battery status light flashes amber
or is a steady amber, the battery charge is low or depleted. Connect the
computer to an electrical outlet.
If the battery status light flashes blue and amber, the battery is too hot to
charge. Shut down the computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical
outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperature.
If the battery status light rapidly flashes amber, the battery may be defective.
Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
CHECK THE BATTERY TEMPERATURE — If the battery temperature is below 0°C
(32°F), the computer will not start.
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by
testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
CHECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the
AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on.
CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power
protection devices, power strips, and extension cables to verify that the
computer turns on.
ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights,
ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — See "Configuring Power Management
Settings" on page 46.
RESEAT THE MEMORY MODULES — If the computer power light turns on, but the
display remains blank, reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 138).
Printer Problems
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157 as you complete these checks.
112
Troubleshooting
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s
manufacturer.
CHECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION — See the printer documentation for
setup and troubleshooting information.
ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON
CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —
•
•
See the printer documentation for cable connection information.
Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and
the computer.
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by
testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS —
1
2
3
Click Start
→
Control Panel→ Hardware and Sound→ Printers
.
Right-click the printer icon.
Click Properties, and then click the Ports tab. For a parallel printer, ensure
that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). For
a USB printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB
.
REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — See the printer documentation for
instructions.
Scanner Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s
manufacturer.
CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for
setup and troubleshooting information.
UNLOCK THE SCANNER — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —
•
See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.
Troubleshooting
113
•
Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and
the computer.
Click Start → Control Panel→ Hardware and Sound→ Scanners and
Cameras. If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.
REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER — See the scanner documentation for
instructions.
Sound and Speaker Problems
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157 as you complete these
checks.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
No sound from integrated speakers
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — 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. Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to
eliminate distortion.
ADJUST THE VOLUME USING KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS — Press <Fn><End> to
disable (mute) or re-enable the integrated speakers.
REINSTALL THE SOUND (AUDIO) DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 119.
No sound from external speakers
ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the
setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume
controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker
icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned
up and that the sound is not muted.
DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR — Sound from
the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the
headphone connector.
114
Troubleshooting
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by
testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights,
or halogen lamps to check for interference.
REINSTALL THE AUDIO DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on
page 119.
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.
No sound from headphones
CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone
cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see "Back View" on
page 34).
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker
icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned
up and that the sound is not muted.
Remote Control Problems
APPLICATION DOES NOT RESPOND TO REMOTE CONTROL WITHIN THE SPECIFIED
MAXIMUM RANGE
•
•
•
Check that the battery is placed correctly with the "+" side facing up.
Check that the battery is also not weak.
Point your remote control to the receiver. The receiver is underneath the
touch pad of your computer.
Move the remote control closer to your computer.
REMOTE CONTROL IS STUCK IN THE SLOT
Check that you have not incorrectly stored the remote control into a non-
Express Card slot. Contact Dell Technical Support for removing it.
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
CHECK THE TOUCH PAD SETTINGS —
Troubleshooting
115
1
2
Click Start
→
Control Panel→ Hardware and Sound→ Mouse
.
Adjust the settings, as needed.
CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE — Shut down the computer, disconnect the mouse
cable and check it for damage, then firmly reconnect the cable.
If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the
mouse directly to the computer.
TO VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE, CHECK THE TOUCH PAD —
1
2
3
4
Shut down the computer.
Disconnect the mouse.
Turn on the computer.
At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around,
select an icon, and open it.
If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.
CHECK THE SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM SETTINGS — Verify that the system setup
program lists the correct device for the pointing device option (the computer
automatically recognizes a USB mouse without making any setting adjustments).
TEST THE MOUSE CONTROLLER — To test the mouse controller (which affects
run the Mouse test in the Pointing Devices test group in the "Dell
Diagnostics" on page 89.
REINSTALL THE TOUCH PAD DRIVER — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities"
on page 119.
Video and Display Problems
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157 as you complete these checks.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
If the display is blank
NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your
computer supports, it is recommended that you attach an external monitor to your
computer.
116
Troubleshooting
CHECK THE BATTERY — If you are using a battery to power your computer, the
battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet
using the AC adapter, and then turn on the computer.
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by
testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
CHECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the
AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on.
CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power
protection devices, power strips, and extension cables to verify that the
computer turns on.
ADJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — Search for the keyword sleep in Windows
Help and Support.
SWITCH THE VIDEO IMAGE — If your computer is attached to an external
monitor, press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image to the display.
If the display is difficult to read
ADJUST THE BRIGHTNESS — Press <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key.
MOVE THE EXTERNAL SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR — If
your external speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer
is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.
ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights,
halogen lamps, or other appliances.
ROTATE THE COMPUTER TO FACE A DIFFERENT DIRECTION — Eliminate sunlight
glare, which can cause poor picture quality.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —
1
Click Start
Personalization→ Display Settings
Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.
→
.
2
Try different settings for Resolution and Colors
.
RUN THE VIDEO DIAGNOSTICS TESTS — If no error message appears and you
still have a display problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the
Video device group in the "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89, then contact Dell
(see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
Troubleshooting
117
SEE "ERROR MESSAGES" — If an error message appears, see "Error Messages"
on page 100.
If only part of the display is readable
CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR —
1
2
Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the
computer.
Turn on the computer and the monitor, and then adjust the monitor
brightness and contrast controls.
If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller
may be defective. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 158).
Drivers
What Is a Driver?
A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or
keyboard. All devices require a driver program.
A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that
use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only
its driver recognizes.
Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no
further installation or configuration is needed.
NOTICE: Your Drivers and Utilities media may contain drivers for operating systems
that are not on your computer. Ensure that you are installing software appropriate
for your operating system.
®
Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft
®
Windows operating system. You may need to install drivers if you:
•
•
•
Upgrade your operating system.
Reinstall your operating system.
Connect or install a new device.
Identifying Drivers
If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the
source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.
118
Troubleshooting
1
2
Click Start
, and then right-click Computer
.
Click Properties
→
Device 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.
Scroll down the list of devices and check for an exclamation point (a circle with
a [!]) next to the device name. If an exclamation point 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 119).
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.
Using Windows Device Driver Rollback
If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use
Windows Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously
installed version.
1
2
Click Start
, and then right-click Computer
.
Click Properties, and then click Device Manager
.
NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an
administrator to enter the Device Manager.
3
4
Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click
Properties
.
Click the Drivers tab, and then click Roll Back Driver
.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, use System Restore
(see "Restoring Your Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating System" on
page 122) to return your computer to the operating state that existed before
you installed the new driver.
Troubleshooting
119
Using the Drivers and Utilities Media
If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see "Restoring Your
Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating System" on page 122) does not
resolve the problem, reinstall the driver from your Drivers and Utilities media.
1
With the Windows desktop displayed, insert your Drivers and Utilities media.
If this is your first time to use your Drivers and Utilities media, continue
to step 2. If not, proceed to step 5.
2
When the Drivers and Utilities installation program starts, follow the
prompts on the screen.
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.
3
When the InstallShield Wizard Complete window appears, remove the
Drivers and Utilities disc and click Finish to restart the computer.
4
5
When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the Drivers and Utilities disc.
At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, 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.
A message stating that the Drivers and Utilities program is detecting
hardware in your computer appears.
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.
6
Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on
the screen.
If a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is not required by your
operating system.
120
Troubleshooting
Manually Reinstalling Drivers
NOTE: If your computer has a Consumer IR port and you are reinstalling a Consumer
IR driver, you must first enable the Consumer IR port in the system setup program (see
"Using the System Setup Program" on page 169) before continuing with the driver
installation (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 119). For information about
components installed on your computer, see "Front View" on page 25.
1
2
After extracting the driver files to your hard drive, as described in the
previous section, click Start , and then right-click Computer
.
Click Properties
→
Device Manager
.
NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click Continue; 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, Modems or Infrared devices).
4
5
6
Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
Click Driver tab and then click Update Driver
.
Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously copied
the driver files.
7
8
Select the name of the appropriate driver and then click OK and Next.
Click Finish, and then restart your computer.
Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems
in the Windows Vista® Operating System
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is
detected but incorrectly configured, use Windows Vista Help and Support to
resolve the incompatibility.
®
NOTE: Windows Vista is a new operating system, so drivers or applications that
support certain devices may not yet be available. Check with your hardware
manufacturer for information on Windows Vista support for your device.
Troubleshooting
121
To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1
2
Click Start
→
Help and Support.
In the Find an answer section, click Troubleshooting
.
OR
Type hardware troubleshooter in the search field, then press
<Enter>.
3
In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and
follow the troubleshooting steps.
NOTE: If you do not find the answer in the items categorized in Troubleshooting, you
can get online help by typing in your question in the Search Help field at the top of the
window.
Restoring Your Microsoft® Windows Vista®
Operating System
You can restore your Windows Vista operating system in the following ways:
•
Windows Vista includes the Backup and Restore Center to create backups
of important files on your computer or to back up the entire hard drive.
You can then restore your operating system or files if needed.
•
Microsoft Windows System Restore returns your hard drive 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. For
instructions, see "Using Windows Vista System Restore" on page 123.
•
Dell Factory Image Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it
was in when you purchased the computer. Dell Factory Image Restore
permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications
installed after you received the computer. Use Factory Image Restore only if
System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
•
If you received an Operating System disc with your computer, you can use
it to restore your operating system. However, using the Operating System
disc also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the disc only if System
Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
122
Troubleshooting
Using Windows Vista System Restore
The Windows Vista operating system provides System Restore to allow you to
return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data
files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left
the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help and
Support Center for information on using System Restore.
To access the Windows Help and Support Center, click Start
Support.
→ Help and
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.
Creating a Restore Point
You can either automatically or manually create a restore point from the
Windows Vista Back Up and Restore Center. To access the Windows Vista
Backup and Restore Center:
•
Click Start
→
section, click Show all 14 items...
Welcome Center. In the Get started with Windows
Back Up and Restore Center
→
.
•
Click Start
→
All Programs
→
Maintenance
→
Back Up and Restore
For more information,
1
2
Click Start
→
Help and Support.
Type System Restorein the search field and press <Enter>.
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see
"Using Windows Device Driver Rollback" on page 119) to resolve the problem.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore.
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and
close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any
files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
Troubleshooting
123
1
Click Start
→
and Restore Center..
Control Panel
→
System and Maintenance
→
Back Up
2
3
In the Tasks list, click Repair Windows using System Restore.
Click Continue in the User Account Control (UAC) dialog box asking for
permission to run the application.
4
5
6
Click Next in the System Restore window to view the most recent restore
points in chronological order.
Select the Show restore points older than 5 days checkbox to view the
complete list of restore points.
Select a restore point. Try to restore from the most recent restore point.
If this fails to correct the problem, try the next oldest restore point until
the issue is resolved. Any software installed after the selected restore point
will need to be reinstalled.
7
8
9
Click Next
When prompted, click Yes
After System Restore finishes collecting data, the computer restarts.
→
Finish.
.
10 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.
If you encounter any error messages during the restore process, follow the
prompts on the screen to correct the error.
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
2
3
Click Start
→
Help and Support.
Type System Restorein the search field and press <Enter>.
Click Undo my last restoration, and then click Next
.
124
Troubleshooting
Restoring the Computer to the Default Factory Configuration
The Dell Factory Image Restore option allows you to restore your hard drive
back to its original factory configuration as when you first ordered it from Dell.
This option appears on Dell computers that were originally pre-installed with
®
Windows Vista and does not include computers purchased through the
Express Upgrade promotion or computers that were upgraded to Windows
®
Vista from a previous version of the Windows operating systems.
NOTICE: When you restore the computer to the default factory configuration, all
data on the hard drive is deleted. Before performing this procedure, back up
personal files. If you do not back up personal files, the data is lost.
1
2
Restart the computer. To do this, click Start
→
→
Restart.
As the computer restarts, press <F8> until the Advanced Boot Options
menu appears on the screen.
NOTE: You must press the <F8> key before the Windows logo appears on the
screen. If you press <F8> after the Windows logo appears on the screen, the
Advanced Boot Options menu will not appear on the screen. If you do not see
the Advanced Boot Options menu, restart the computer, and then repeat this
step until you see the menu on the screen.
3
Press <Down Arrow> to select Repair Your Computer on the Advanced
Boot Options menu, and then press <Enter>.
4
5
6
7
8
Specify the language settings that you want, and then click Next
Log in as a user who has administrative credentials, and then click OK
Click Dell Factory Image Restore
In the Dell Factory Image Restore window, click Next
.
.
.
.
Select the Yes, reformat hard drive and restore system software to factory
condition checkbox.
9
Click Next. The computer is restored to the default factory configuration.
10 When the restore operation is completed, click Finish to restart the
computer.
Troubleshooting
125
Using the Operating System Media
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 "Using Windows Device Driver Rollback" on page 119).
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System
Restore to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before
you installed the new device driver (see "Using Windows Vista System
Restore" on page 123).
NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary
hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the
first drive detected by the computer.
To reinstall Windows, you need the following items:
•
•
Dell Operating System media
Dell Drivers and Utilities media
NOTE: Your Drivers and Utilities media contains drivers that were installed during
assembly of the computer. Use your Drivers and Utilities media to load any required
drivers, including the drivers required if your computer has a RAID controller.
Reinstalling Windows Vista
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you
reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus
protection program, and other software.
NOTICE: The Operating System media provides options for reinstalling Windows.
The options can overwrite files and possibly affect programs that are installed on
your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows unless a Dell technical support
representative instructs you to do so.
1
2
3
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
Insert the Operating System media.
Click Exit if the Install Windows message appears.
126
Troubleshooting
4
Restart the computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
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.
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
5
When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive
,
and then press <Enter>.
6
7
Press any key to Boot from CD-ROM
.
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
NOTE: You cannot reinstall Dell MediaDirect if you voluntarily reformat the hard
drive. You need the installation software to reinstall Dell MediaDirect. See
"Contacting Dell" on page 158.
Troubleshooting
127
128
Troubleshooting
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 "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 129
and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 130.
•
•
You have read the safety information in your Dell Product Information Guide.
A component can be replaced—or if purchased separately—installed 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
Small plastic scribe
Flash BIOS update (see the Dell Support website at support.dell.com
)
Turning 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
2
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
Click Start
, click the arrow
,
and then click Shut Down.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.
3
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 at
least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off.
Adding and Replacing Parts
129
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 electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist
grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a
connector on the back of the computer).
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the computer, perform the following steps
before you begin working inside the computer.
1
2
Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer
cover from being scratched.
Turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 129).
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer,
and then unplug it from the network wall jack.
3
4
Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer.
Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical
outlets.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery
from the battery bay before you service the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the computer, use only the battery designed for this
particular Dell computer. Do not use batteries designed for other Dell computers.
130
Adding and Replacing Parts
5
6
7
Turn the computer over.
Slide and click the battery release latch.
Slide the battery out of the battery bay.
1
2
1
battery
2
battery release latch
8
9
Turn the computer top-side up, open the display, and press the power
button to ground the system board.
Remove any installed cards from the ExpressCard slot (see "Removing an
ExpressCard or Blank" on page 72) and the 8-in-1 memory card reader (see
"Removing a Memory Card or Blank" on page 74).
Hard Drive
CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot,
do not touch the metal housing of the hard drive.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your
Computer" on page 129) before removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard
drive while the computer is on or in Sleep state.
NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile. Exercise care when handling the
hard drive.
Adding and Replacing Parts
131
from sources other than Dell.
NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to
install an operating system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive (see
"Restoring Your Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating System" on page 122 and
"Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 119).
Removing the Hard Drive
1
2
3
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 129.
Turn the computer over.
Remove the four M3 x 3-mm screws and slide the hard drive away from
the bay.
NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic
packaging (see "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the
Product Information Guide).
132
Adding and Replacing Parts
Replacing the Hard Drive
1
Remove the new drive from its packaging.
Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.
excessive force, you may damage the connector.
2
3
4
Slide the hard drive into the bay.
Replace and tighten the four screws on the hard drive.
Install the operating system for your computer, as needed (see "Restoring
Your Microsoft® Windows Vista® Operating System" on page 122).
5
Install the drivers and utilities for your computer, as needed (see
"Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 119).
Returning a Hard Drive to Dell
Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original, or comparable, foam
packaging. Otherwise, the hard drive may be damaged in transit.
2
1
1
foam packaging
2
hard drive
Adding and Replacing Parts
133
Center Control Cover and Hinge Covers
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist
grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a
connector on the back of the computer).
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery
from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer.
Removing the Center Control Cover and Hinge Covers
1
2
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 129.
Turn the computer over and remove the three M2 x 2-mm screws that
secure the center control cover.
3
4
Turn the computer top side up, and open the display as far as it will open.
Ease the center control cover up with a plastic scribe until you see the
cable connector that attaches the cable to the system board.
NOTICE: While raising the center control cover ensure that you do not pull hard so
as not to damage the data cable connected to the system board. The cover along
with the cable that attaches to it are very fragile.
134
Adding and Replacing Parts
1
2
3
4
1
4
center control cover
black securing tabs
2
center control cover
cable connector
3
center control
cover cable
5
Pull the black securing tabs of the cable connector with your fingertips and
ease out the cable.
6
Remove the hinge covers from each side of the computer.
Adding and Replacing Parts
135
1
2
1
center control cover
2
hinge cover (2)
Replacing the Center Control Cover and Hinge Covers
1
2
Replace the hinge covers.
To reconnect the cable that attaches the center control cover to the system
3
4
Snap the center control cover in place.
Turn the computer over and replace the three M2 x 2-mm screws that
secure the center control cover to the computer base.
Keyboard
For more information about the keyboard, see "Using the Keyboard and
Touchpad" on page 37.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist
grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a
connector on the back of the computer).
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery
from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer.
136
Adding and Replacing Parts
Removing the Keyboard
1
2
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 129.
Remove the center control cover and hinge covers (see "Removing the
Center Control Cover and Hinge Covers" on page 134).
3
4
Remove the two M2.5 x 5-mm screws at the top of the keyboard.
NOTICE: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-
consuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard.
Carefully slide the keyboard toward the back of the computer.
NOTICE: Be extremely careful when removing and handling the keyboard. Failure
to do so could result in scratching the display panel.
1
2
3
4
5
1
3
5
M2.5 x 5-mm screw (2)
keyboard tabs (5)
2
4
keyboard
keyboard cable
plastic securing bar
5
Pull up on the plastic bar that secures the keyboard cable to the system
board and remove the keyboard.
Adding and Replacing Parts
137
Replacing the Keyboard
1
Slide the keyboard cable connector into the slot until it clicks and pull
down on the plastic bar that secures the keyboard cable connector to the
system board.
2
Align the five tabs along the bottom of the keyboard and slide them under
the palm rest.
NOTICE: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-
consuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard.
3
4
Replace the two M2.5 x 5-mm screws along the top of the keyboard.
Replace the hinge covers and the center control cover (see "Replacing the
Center Control Cover and Hinge Covers" on page 136).
Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on
the system board. See "Specifications" on page 159 for information on the
memory supported by your computer. Install only memory modules that are
intended for your computer.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer
warranty.
Your computer has two user-accessible SODIMM sockets that can be
accessed from the bottom of the computer.
NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a
memory module in the connector labeled “DIMM1” before you install a module in
the connector labeled “DIMM2.”
Removing the Memory Module
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist
grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a
connector on the back of the computer).
NOTICE: If there is a memory module in DIMM 2, remove it prior to removing the
memory module from DIMM 1. Failure to do so could result in damaging both
memory modules.
138
Adding and Replacing Parts
1
2
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 129.
Turn the computer over and loosen the four captive screws along with the
M2.5 x 5-mm screw. Remove the module cover.
1
2
1
M2.5 x 5-mm screw
2
captive screws (4)
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to
spread the memory module securing clips.
3
4
Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end
of the memory module connector until the module pops up.
Remove the module from the connector.
Adding and Replacing Parts
139
2
1
1
securing clips (2)
2
memory module
Replacing the Memory Module
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist
grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a
connector on the back of the computer).
1
2
Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the
connector slot.
Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the
module down until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove
the module and reinstall it.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot.
No error message indicates this failure.
140
Adding and Replacing Parts
1
2
1
tab
2
notch
NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing
the cover to close may damage your computer.
3
4
Replace the module cover.
Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your
computer and an electrical outlet.
5
Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically
updates the system configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click
Start
→
Help and Support
→
Dell System Information.
Adding and Replacing Parts
141
Subscriber Identity Module
Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM) identify users uniquely through an
International Mobile Subscriber Identity.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTE: Only Cingular and Vodafone need a SIM. Verizon, Sprint, and Telus do not
use SIMs.
1
2
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 129.
In the battery bay, slide the SIM into the compartment with the cut-off
corner of the SIM facing away from the compartment.
1
2
1
SIM
2
battery bay
Wireless Mini-Cards
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery
from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer.
If you ordered a wireless Mini-Card with your computer, the card is already
installed. Your computer supports three types of wireless Mini-Cards:
•
•
•
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
Ultra Wide Band (UWB)
Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)
142
Adding and Replacing Parts
Removing a WLAN Card
1
2
3
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 129.
Turn the computer over.
Loosen the captive screw on the cover of the Mini-Card compartment and
remove the cover.
4
Disconnect the antenna cables from the WLAN card.
1
2
3
1
WLAN Card
2
M2 x 3-mm securing screw
3
antenna cable connectors (2)
Adding and Replacing Parts
143
5
6
Release the WLAN card by removing the securing screw.
Lift the WLAN card out of its system board connector.
Replacing a WLAN Card
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel
resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system board, and realign
the card.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the WLAN card, never place cables under the card.
1
2
3
Insert the WLAN card connector at a 45-degree angle into the system
board connector labeled "WLAN".
Press the other end of the WLAN card down into the slot on the system
board until the card clicks into place.
Replace the M2 x 3-mm securing screw.
144
Adding and Replacing Parts
4
Connect the appropriate antenna cables to the WLAN card you are installing:
If the WLAN card has two triangles on the label (white and black),
connect the white antenna cable to the connector labeled "main" (white
triangle), and connect the black antenna cable to the connector labeled
"aux" (black triangle).
If the WLAN card has three triangles on the label (white, black, and gray),
connect the white antenna cable to the white triangle, connect the black
the gray triangle.
5
6
Secure unused antenna cables in the protective mylar sleeve.
Replace the cover and tighten the captive screws.
Removing a Mobile Broadband or WWAN Card
NOTE: WWAN is also available on an ExpressCard (see "Using ExpressCards" on
page 71).
1
2
3
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 129.
Turn the computer over.
Loosen the captive screw on the cover of the Mini-Card compartment and
remove the cover.
Adding and Replacing Parts
145
4
Disconnect the two antenna cables from the WWAN card.
1
2
3
1
WWAN Card
2
M2 x 3-mm securing screw
3
antenna cable connectors (2)
5
6
Release the WWAN card by removing the securing screw.
Lift the WWAN card out of its system board connector.
146
Adding and Replacing Parts
Replacing a WWAN Card
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel
resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system board, and realign
the card.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the WWAN card, never place cables under the card.
1
2
Insert the WWAN card connector at a 45-degree angle into the system
board connector labeled "WWAN".
Press the other end of the WLAN card down into the slot on the system
board until the card clicks into place.
3
4
Replace the M2 x 3-mm securing screw.
Connect the black antenna cable with a gray stripe to the connector
labeled "aux" (black triangle) and connect the white antenna cable with a
gray stripe to the connector labeled "main" (white triangle).
5
6
Secure unused antenna cables in the protective mylar sleeve.
Replace the cover and tighten the captive screws.
Flash Cache Module
The Flash Cache Module (FCM) is an internal memory card that helps
improve the performance of your computer. The FCM card is also known as
Intel Turbo Memory and the Intel Flash Cache Logic Chip Mini-card.
NOTE: This card is only compatible with the Microsoft Windows Vista™ operating
system.
If you ordered an FCM with your computer, it is already installed.
Removing the FCM
1
2
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 129.
Turn the computer over and remove the cover on the Mini-Card
compartment.
3
Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of
the computer.
NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.
Adding and Replacing Parts
147
4
5
Remove the M2 x 3-mm securing screw.
Remove the FCM.
1
2
1
FCM Card
2
M2 x 3-mm securing screw
Replacing the FCM
NOTICE: Install the FCM in the WWAN or WPAN slot. Do not install an FCM in the
WLAN card slot. Doing so may cause damage to your computer.
1
2
3
Insert the FCM connector at a 45-degree angle into the system board
connector labeled "FCM".
Press the other end of the FCM down into the slot on the system board
until the card clicks into place.
Replace the M2 x 3-mm securing screw.
148
Adding and Replacing Parts
Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist
grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a
connector on the back of the computer).
If you ordered a card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer,
it is already installed.
Removing the Card
1
2
Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 129.
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control
Cover and Hinge Covers" on page 134).
3
4
Pull the bluetooth card out of the box.
Disconnect the cable connector from the card to remove the card from the
computer.
1
2
3
1
box
2
card
3
cable connector
Adding and Replacing Parts
149
Traveling With Your Computer
Identifying Your Computer
•
Attach a name tag or business card to the computer.
•
Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the
computer or carrying case. Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss
or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell.
®
®
•
•
Create a file on the Microsoft Windows desktop called if_found.
Place information such as your name, address, and phone number in this file.
Contact your credit card company and ask if it offers coded
identification tags.
Packing the Computer
•
•
•
Remove any external devices attached to the computer and store them in a
safe place.
To make the computer as light as possible, replace any devices installed in
the module bay with the Dell TravelLite™ module.
Fully charge the main battery and any spare batteries that you plan to carry
with you.
•
•
Shut down the computer.
Disconnect the AC adapter.
NOTICE: When the display is closed, extraneous items on the keyboard or palm
rest could damage the display.
•
•
•
Remove any extraneous items, such as paper clips, pens, and paper, from
the keyboard and palm rest and close the display.
Use the optional Dell™ carrying case to pack the computer and its
accessories together safely.
Avoid packing the computer with items such as shaving cream, colognes,
perfumes, or food.
Traveling With Your Computer
151
NOTICE: If the computer has been exposed to extreme temperatures, allow it to
acclimate to room temperature for 1 hour before turning it on.
•
•
Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such
as extreme temperatures and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids.
Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car
or in an overhead storage compartment.
Travel Tips
of data.
NOTICE: Do not check the computer as baggage.
•
Consider disabling wireless activity on your computer to maximize battery
operating time. To disable wireless activity, use the wireless switch (see
"Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 83).
•
•
Consider changing your power management options to maximize battery
operating time (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 46).
If you are traveling internationally, carry proof of ownership—or of your
right to use the computer if it is company-owned—to speed your passage
through customs. Investigate the customs regulations of the countries you
plan to visit, and consider acquiring an international carnet (also known as
a
merchandise passport) from your government.
•
•
Find out what type of electrical outlets are used in the countries you will
visit, and have appropriate power adapters.
Check with your credit card company for information about the kinds of
emergency travel assistance it offers to users of portable computers.
Traveling by Air
NOTICE: Do not walk the computer through a metal detector. Send the computer
through an X-ray machine or have it hand-inspected.
•
•
Ensure that you have a charged battery available in case you are asked to
turn on the computer.
Prior to entering the airplane, verify that using a computer is permitted.
Some airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during flight. All airlines
forbid the use of electronic devices during takeoff and landing.
152
Traveling With Your Computer
Getting Help
Obtaining Assistance
If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the
following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem:
1
2
3
See "Troubleshooting" on page 89 for information and procedures that
pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing.
See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 89 for procedures on how to run Dell
Diagnostics.
Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available through the Dell
Support Center for help with installation and troubleshooting procedures.
See "Dell Support Center" on page 93. For a more extensive list of Dell
Support online, you can visit support.dell.com or see "Online Services" on
page 154.
4
5
Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 157.
If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see "Contacting
Dell" on page 158.
NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.
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 the Dell Accessories folder,
double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.
For instructions on using the Dell Support, see "Technical Support and
Customer Service" on page 154.
NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations
outside the continental U.S. Call your local Dell representative for information on
availability.
Getting Help
153
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 156, and then
see "Contacting Dell" on page 158.
DellConnect
DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and
support associate to access your computer through a broadband connection,
diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision. For more
information, go to support.dell.com and click DellConnect.
Online Services
You can learn about Dell products and services on the following websites:
www.dell.com
www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only)
www.dell.com/jp (Japan only)
www.euro.dell.com (Europe only)
www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries)
www.dell.ca (Canada only)
You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail addresses:
•
Dell Support websites
support.dell.com
support.jp.dell.com (Japan only)
support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)
•
Dell Support e-mail addresses
[email protected] (Latin America and Caribbean countries only)
[email protected] (Asian/Pacific countries only)
154
Getting Help
•
Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses
[email protected] (Asian/Pacific countries only)
[email protected] (Canada only)
•
Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)
ftp.dell.com
Log in as user: anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.
AutoTech Service
Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to
the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable
and desktop computers.
When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the
for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 158.
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 158.
Problems With Your Order
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 handy when you call. For the telephone number to call for your
region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 158.
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
the telephone number to call for your region or to speak to a sales specialist,
see "Contacting Dell" on page 158.
Getting Help
155
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
1
For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on
page 158.
2
3
Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.
Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist"
on page 157), indicating the tests that you have run and any error
messages reported by the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on
page 89).
4
5
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.
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.
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).
Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist"
on page 157). 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.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, follow the safety instructions in
your Product Information Guide.
156
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:
Getting Help
157
Contacting Dell
For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW-DELL (800-999-3355).
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
2
Visit support.dell.com.
Verify your country or region in the Choose A Country/Region drop-down
menu at the bottom of the page.
3
4
5
Click Contact Us on the left side of the page.
Select the appropriate service or support link based on your need.
Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.
158
Getting Help
Specifications
NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the
configuration of your computer, click Start , click Help and Support, and then
select the option to view information about your computer.
Processor
®
®
Processor type
Intel Celeron (Japan only)
®
Intel Core™ 2
®
Intel 45 nm Core™ 2
L1 cache
L2 cache
64 KB
®
®
1 MB (Intel Celeron )
2 MB or 4 MB (Intel Core 2 processor)
6 MB (Intel 45 nm Core 2 processor)
®
®
External bus frequency
533 MHz (Intel Celeron )
800/667 MHz (Intel Core 2 processor)
800 MHz (Intel 45 nm Core 2 processor)
System Information
System chipset
Mobile Intel 965PM
Data bus width
64 bits
DRAM bus width
Processor address bus width
Flash EPROM
dual-channel (2) 64-bit buses
32 bits
2 MB
Graphics bus
PCI-E X16
PCI bus
32 bits
x16
(PCI-Express used for video
controllers)
Specifications
159
ExpressCard
NOTE: The ExpressCard slot is designed only for ExpressCards. It does NOT support PC Cards.
NOTE: PCMCIA may not be available in some regions.
ExpressCard controller
ExpressCard connector
Cards supported
Intel ICH8M
one ExpressCard slot (54 mm)
ExpressCard/34 (34 mm)
ExpressCard/54 (54 mm)
1.5 V and 3.3 V
ExpressCard connector size
26 pins
8-in-1 Memory Card Reader
8-in-1 memory card controller
8-in-1 memory card connector
Cards supported
Ricoh R5C833
8-in-1 combo card connector
• Secure Digital (SD)
• Secure Digital Input/Output(SDIO)
• MultiMediaCard (MMC)
• Memory Stick
• Memory Stick PRO
• xD-Picture Card
• Hi Speed-SD
• Hi Density-SD
Memory
Memory module connector
Memory module capacities
Memory type
two user-accessible SODIMM connectors
512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB
667 MHz SODIMM DDR2
Minimum memory
Maximum memory
1 GB
8 GB
NOTE: In order to take advantage of the dual channel bandwidth capability, both
memory slots must be populated and must match in size.
NOTE: The available memory displayed does not reflect the complete maximum memory
installed because some memory is reserved for system files.
160
Specifications
Ports and Connectors
Audio
microphone-in connector, two stereo
headphones/speakers connector
IEEE 1394a
4-pin mini, non-powered connector
sensor compatible with Philips RC6 (receive only)
three Type IIIA Mini-Card slots
19-pin
Consumer IR
Mini-Card
HDMI connector
Network adapter
S-Video TV-out
RJ-45 port
7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-Video to
composite video adapter cable; optional S-Video to
component video adapter cable)
USB
three 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connector
15-hole connector
Video
Communications
Modem:
Type
External V.92 56K USB Modem
Hardware Modem
Controller
Interface
Universal Serial Bus (USB)
Network adapter
Wireless
10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board
internal WLAN, WWAN, UWB (optional)
WWAN ExpressCard
®
Bluetooth wireless technology
Video
NOTE: Optional video controller upgrades are available for your computer subject to
availability at the time of purchase. To determine the configuration of your computer, see
"Front View" on page 25.
Video type 1:
Data bus
discrete video card
PCI Express X16
Video controller
nVIDIA GeForce 8400M GS
Specifications
161
Video (continued)
Video memory
LCD interface
TV support
128 MB DDR3 technology
Low Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS)
HDMI mode and S-Video
discrete video card
Video type 2:
Data bus
PCI Express X16
Video controller
Video memory
LCD interface
TV support
nVIDIA GeForce 8600M GS
256 MB DDR3 technology
LVDS
HDMI mode and S-Video
Audio
Audio type
Audio controller
Stereo conversion
Interfaces:
Internal
5.1 channel High Definition Audio
Sigmatel STAC9228
24-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog)
Intel High Definition Audio
External
microphone in/line in connector, two stereo
headphones/speakers connector
Speaker
two 4-ohm speakers
Internal speaker amplifier
Volume controls
2 Watts per channel into 4 ohms
program menus and media control buttons
Display
Type (TrueLife)
15.4-inch WXGA TrueLife
15.4-inch WXGA+ TrueLife
15.4-inch WLED WXGA+ TrueLife
15.4-inch WSXGA+ TrueLife
162
Specifications
Display (continued)
Dimensions:
Height
207.0 mm (8.15 in)
331.2 mm (13.02 in)
391.2 mm (15.39 in)
Width
Diagonal
Native resolutions:
WXGA
1280 x 3 (RGB) x 800 at 262 K colors
1440 x 3 (RGB) x 900 at 262 K colors
1680 x 3 (RGB) x 1050 at 262 K colors
60 Hz
WXGA+
WSXGA+
Refresh rate
Operating angle
Luminance
WXGA
0° (closed) to 140°
2
220 cd/m
2
WXGA+
250 cd/m
2
WLED WXGA+
WSXGA+
300 cd/m
2
200 cd/m
Viewing angles (L/R/U/D deg)
min @ CR or ≥ 10:
WXGA
40/40/15/30
55/55/45/45
55/55/50/50
60/60/40/50
WXGA+
WLED WXGA+
WSXGA+
Pixel pitch:
WXGA
0.2588 x 0.2588 mm
0.2304 x 0.2304 mm
0.1971 x 0.1971 mm
WXGA+
WSXGA+
Controls
brightness can be controlled through keyboard
shortcuts (see "Adjusting Brightness" on page 41)
Specifications
163
Keyboard
Number of keys
86 (U.S. and Canada); 87 (Europe); 90 (Japan); 88
(Brazil)
Layout
QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji
Touch Pad
X/Y position resolution
(graphics table mode)
240 cpi
Size:
Width
Height
71.7-mm (2.8-in) sensor-active area
34.0-mm (1.3-in) rectangle
Camera
Pixel
2.0 mega pixel
Video Resolution
Diagonal Viewing Angle
320x240 ~1600x1200 (640x480 at 30fps)
60°
Battery
Type
9-cell "smart" lithium ion
6-cell "smart" lithium ion
Dimensions:
Depth
67.6 mm (2.66 inches) (9 cell)
47.5 mm (1.87 inches) (6 cell)
20.4 mm (0.8 inch)
Height
Width
Weight
209.9 mm (8.26 inches)
0.48 kg (1.06 lb) (9 cell)
0.33 kg (0.7 lb) (6 cell)
Voltage
11.1 VDC
164
Specifications
Battery (continued)
Charge time (approximate):
Computer off
3 hours
Operating time
Battery operating time varies depending on
operating conditions and can be significantly
reduced under certain power-intensive conditions
(see "Power Problems" on page 111).
See "Using a Battery" on page 43 for more
information on battery life.
Life span (approximate)
Temperature range:
Operating
300 discharge/charge cycles
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
CR-2032
Storage
Coin-cell battery
AC Adapter
Types
65W (D-Series)
90W (D-Series and E-Series)
100–240 VAC
1.5 A
Input voltage
Input current (maximum)
Input frequency
Output current
65 W
50–60 Hz
3.9 A (maximum at 4-second pulse)
4.34 A (65 W) (continuous)
90 W
5.62 A (maximum at 4-second pulse)
4.62 A (90 W) (continuous)
Output power
65W or 90W
Rated output voltage
19.5 +/– 1VDC
Specifications
165
AC Adapter (continued)
Dimensions:
65W
Height
28.2 mm(1.11 inches) (D-Series)
57.9 mm(2.28 inches) (D-Series)
137.2 mm(5.4 inches) (D-Series)
Width
Length
90W
Height
34.2 mm (1.35 inches) (D-Series)
16 mm (0.63 inches) (E-Series)
60.9 mm (2.39 inches) (D-Series)
70 mm (2.76 inches) (E-Series)
153.42 mm (6.04 inches) (D-Series)
147 mm (5.79 inches) (E-Series)
Width
Length
Weight (without cables)
65W
90W
0.25 kg (0.55 lb) (D-Series)
0.46 kg (1.01 lb) (D-Series)
0.345 kg (0.76 lb) (E-Series)
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Physical
Height
23.7 mm~35.1 mm (0.93 in~1.38 in)
357 mm (14.05 in)
Width
Depth
263 mm (10.35 in)
Weight (with 6-cell battery):
2.67 kg (5.9 lbs)
166
Specifications
Environmental
Temperature range:
Operating
0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)
Storage
–40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Relative humidity (maximum):
Operating
10% to 90% (noncondensing)
10% to 95% (noncondensing)
Storage
Maximum vibration (using a
random vibration spectrum that
simulates user environment):
Operating
0.66 GRMS
Maximum shock (Measured
with hard drive in operating
status and a 2-ms half-sine pulse
for operating. Also measured
with hard drive in head-parked
position and a 2-ms halfsine
pluse for storage):
Operating
Storage
110 G
163 G
Specifications
167
168
Specifications
Appendix
Using the System Setup Program
NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options
available in system setup, thus overriding options that you set through system setup.
An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only
through system setup. For more information on configuring features for your
operating system, see Windows Help and Support (click Start
Help and Support).
, and then click
You can use system setup as follows:
•
•
To set or change user-selectable features such as your computer password
To verify information about the computer's current configuration such as
the amount of system memory
After you set up the computer, run system setup to familiarize yourself with
your system configuration information and optional settings. You may want
to write down the information for future reference.
The system setup screens display the current setup information and settings
for your computer, such as:
•
•
•
•
•
System configuration
Boot order
Boot (start-up) configuration
Basic device configuration settings
System security and hard drive password settings
NOTE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell
technical support, do not change the system setup settings. Certain changes might
make your computer work incorrectly.
Appendix
169
Viewing the System Setup Screen
1
2
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F2> immediately.
If you wait too long and the Microsoft Windows logo appears, continue to
wait until you see the Windows desktop, then shut down your computer
and try again.
System Setup Screen
NOTE: For information about a specific item on a system setup screen, highlight the
item and see the Help area on the screen.
On each screen, the system setup options are listed at the left. To the right of
each option is the setting or value for that option. You can change settings
that appear as white type on the screen. Options or values that you cannot
change (because they are determined by the computer) appear less bright.
The upper-right corner of the screen displays help information for the
currently highlighted option; the lower-right corner displays information
about the computer. System setup key functions are listed across the bottom
of the screen.
Commonly Used Options
Certain options require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take
effect.
Changing the Boot Sequence
The boot sequence, or boot order, tells the computer where to look to find the
software needed to start the operating system. You can control the boot
sequence and enable/disable devices using the Boot Order page of the system
setup program.
NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a
One-Time Boot" on page 171.
170
Appendix
The Boot Order page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may
be installed in your computer, including but not limited to the following:
•
•
•
•
•
Diskette Drive
Internal HDD
USB Storage Device
CD/DVD/CD-RW drive
Modular bay HDD
NOTE: Only devices that are preceded by a number are bootable.
During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans
each enabled device for the operating system start-up files. When the
computer finds the files, it stops searching and starts the operating system.
To control the boot devices, select (highlight) a device by pressing the down-
arrow or up-arrow key, and then enable or disable the device or change its
order in the list.
•
To enable or disable a device, highlight the item and press the space bar.
Enabled items are preceded by a number; disabled items are not preceded
by a number.
•
To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and press <u> to move
the device up the list or <d> to move a device down the list.
Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit
the system setup program.
Performing a One-Time Boot
You can set a one-time-only boot sequence without entering the system setup
program (you can also use this procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the
diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive).
1
2
Shut down the computer through the Start menu.
Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
Appendix
171
3
4
Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12>
immediately.
If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until
you see the Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.
When the boot device list appears, highlight the device from which you
want to boot and press <Enter>.
The computer boots to the selected device.
The next time you reboot the computer, the previous boot order is restored.
Cleaning Your Computer
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
Computer, Keyboard, and Display
CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the
electrical outlet and remove any installed batteries. Clean your computer with a
soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may
contain flammable substances.
•
Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from between the keys on the
keyboard and to remove any dirt or lint from the display.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the computer or display, do not spray cleaning
solution directly onto the display. Only use products specifically designed for
cleaning displays, and follow the instructions that are included with the product.
•
Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with either water or a display cleaner. Do not
use alcohol or an ammonia-based cleaner. Wipe the display gently working
from the center to the edges until it is clean and any fingerprints are
removed. Do not use excessive pressure.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the antiglare coating, do not wipe the display with
soap or alcohol.
•
Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water and wipe the computer and
keyboard. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch
pad and the surrounding palm rest.
172
Appendix
•
•
To clean your monitor screen, lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth with water.
You can also use a special screen-cleaning tissue or solution suitable for the
monitor’s antistatic coating.
Wipe the keyboard, computer, and monitor plastics 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.
Touch Pad
1
Shut down and turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer"
on page 129).
2
Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their
electrical outlets.
3
4
Remove any installed batteries (see "Battery Performance" on page 43).
Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe it gently across the
surface of the touch pad. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep
between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.
Mouse
NOTICE: Disconnect the mouse from the computer before cleaning the mouse
If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse.
Cleaning an Optical Mouse
Clean the outside casing of the mouse with a cloth moistened with a mild
cleaning solution.
Media
NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the optical drive, and
follow the instructions that come with the compressed air product. Never touch the
lens in the drive.
If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your
media, try cleaning the discs.
Appendix
173
1
2
Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the
center hole.
NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion
around the disc.
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 also 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 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-
1
installed" software and peripherals . 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,
2
and Custom Factory Integration .
1
Repair services are provided pursuant to the terms and conditions of your limited
warranty and any optional support service contract purchased with the computer.
2
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 computer’s service contract.
174
Appendix
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, etc).
Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dell-branded
module bay or ExpressCard 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, etc). Support for all third-party software and peripherals is
provided by the original manufacturer of the product.
FCC Notice (U.S. Only)
FCC Class B
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction
manual, may cause interference with radio and television reception. 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.
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.
NOTICE: The FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly
approved by Dell Inc. could void your authority to operate this equipment.
Appendix
175
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference with 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 the receiving antenna.
Relocate the system with respect to the receiver.
Move the system away from the receiver.
Plug the system into a different outlet so that the system and the receiver
are on different branch circuits.
If necessary, consult a representative of Dell Inc. or an experienced
radio/television technician for additional suggestions.
The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this
document in compliance with the FCC regulations:
Product name:
Model number:
Company name:
Dell™ XPS™ M1530
PP28L
Dell Inc.
Worldwide Regulatory Compliance & Environmental
Affairs
One Dell Way
Round Rock, TX 78682 USA
512-338-4400
Macrovision Product Notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected
by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision
Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection
technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended
for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by
Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
176
Appendix
Glossary
Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may
or may not describe features included with your particular computer.
A
AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when
you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet.
ACPI — advanced configuration and power interface — A power management
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specification that enables Microsoft Windows operating systems to put a computer
in standby or hibernate mode to conserve the amount of electrical power allocated to
each device attached to the computer.
AGP — accelerated graphics port — A dedicated graphics port that allows system
memory to be used for video-related tasks. AGP delivers a smooth, true-color video
image because of the faster interface between the video circuitry and the computer
memory.
AHCI — Advanced Host Controller Interface — An interface for a SATA hard drive
Host Controller which allows the storage driver to enable technologies such as Native
Command Queuing (NCQ) and hot plug.
ALS — ambient light sensor — A feature that helps to control display brightness.
antivirus software — A program designed to identify, quarantine, and/or delete viruses
from your computer.
ASF — alert standards format — A standard to define a mechanism for reporting
hardware and software alerts to a management console. ASF is designed to be
platform- and operating system-independent.
B
battery life span — The length of time (years) during which a portable computer
battery is able to be depleted and recharged.
battery operating time — The length of time (minutes or hours) that a portable
computer battery powers the computer.
BD — See Blu-ray Disc.
Glossary
177
BIOS — basic input/output system — A program (or utility) that serves as an
interface between the computer hardware and the operating system. Unless you
understand what effect these settings have on the computer, do not change them. Also
referred to as system setup.
bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your computer.
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Bluetooth wireless technology — A wireless technology standard for short-range
(9 m [29 feet]) networking devices that allows for enabled devices to automatically
recognize each other.
Blu-ray Disc — Blu-ray Disc (BD) is an optical disc format jointly developed by the
Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA). A BD records and plays high-definition video (HD),
and stores large amounts of data: five times the storage capacity of a DVD and can
hold up to 25GB on a single-layer disc and 50GB on a dual-layer disc.
BD-R — Blu-ray Disc recordable refers to two optical disc formats that can be
recorded with an optical disc recorder. BD-R discs can be written to once.
BD-RE — Blu-ray Disc RE can be erased and re-recorded multiple times.
boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from which the computer
attempts to boot.
bootable CD — A CD that you can use to start your computer. In case your hard drive
is damaged or your computer has a virus, ensure that you always have a bootable CD
or floppy disk available. Your Drivers and Utilities media is a bootable CD.
bootable disk — A disk that you can use to start your computer. In case your hard
drive is damaged or your computer has a virus, ensure that you always have a bootable
CD or floppy disk available.
bps — bits per second — The standard unit for measuring data transmission speed.
BTU — British thermal unit — A measurement of heat output.
bus — A communication pathway between the components in your computer.
bus speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast a bus can transfer
information.
byte — The basic data unit used by your computer. A byte is usually equal to 8 bits.
C
C — Celsius — A temperature measurement scale where 0° is the freezing point and
100° is the boiling point of water.
cache — A special high-speed storage mechanism which can be either a reserved
section of main memory or an independent high-speed storage device. The cache
enhances the efficiency of many processor operations.
178
Glossary
L1 cache — Primary cache stored inside the processor.
L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external to the processor or
incorporated into the processor architecture.
carnet — An international customs document that facilitates temporary imports into
foreign countries. Also known as a merchandise passport.
CD-R — CD recordable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be recorded only
once onto a CD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.
CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a
CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten).
CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs)
and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but
you can write to CD-R discs only once.
CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read
CDs and DVDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs)
discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs
only once.
clock speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast computer
components that are connected to the system bus operate.
CMOS — A type of electronic circuit. Computers use a small amount of battery-
powered CMOS memory to hold date, time, and system setup options.
COA — Certificate of Authenticity — The Windows alpha-numeric code located on a
sticker on your computer. Also referred to as the Product Key or Product ID.
Consumer IR— A port on the front of the computer that allows certain software
applications to be controlled by the Dell Travel Remote in some systems. In other
systems, this port allows you to transfer data between the computer and infrared-
compatible devices without using a cable connection.
Control Panel — A Windows utility that allows you to modify operating system and
hardware settings, such as display settings.
controller — A chip that controls the transfer of data between the processor and
memory or between the processor and devices.
CRIMM — continuity rambus in-line memory module — A special module that has
no memory chips and is used to fill unused RIMM slots.
cursor — The marker on a display or screen that shows where the next keyboard, touch
pad, or mouse action will occur. It often is a blinking solid line, an underline character,
or a small arrow.
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179
D
DDR SDRAM — double-data-rate SDRAM — A type of SDRAM that doubles the
data burst cycle, improving system performance.
DDR2 SDRAM — double-data-rate 2 SDRAM — A type of DDR SDRAM that uses a
4-bit prefetch and other architectural changes to boost memory speed to over 400 MHz.
device — Hardware such as a disk drive, printer, or keyboard that is installed in or
connected to your computer.
device driver — See driver.
DIMM — dual in-line memory module — A circuit board with memory chips that
connects to a memory module on the system board.
DIN connector — A round, six-pin connector that conforms to DIN (Deutsche
Industrie-Norm) standards; it is typically used to connect PS/2 keyboard or mouse
cable connectors.
disk striping — A technique for spreading data over multiple disk drives. Disk striping
can speed up operations that retrieve data from disk storage. Computers that use disk
striping generally allow the user to select the data unit size or stripe width.
DMA — direct memory access — A channel that allows certain types of data transfer
between RAM and a device to bypass the processor.
docking device — See APR.
DMTF — Distributed Management Task Force — A consortium of hardware and
software companies who develop management standards for distributed desktop,
network, enterprise, and Internet environments.
domain — A group of computers, programs, and devices on a network that are
administered as a unit with common rules and procedures for use by a specific group
of users. A user logs on to the domain to gain access to the resources.
DRAM — dynamic random-access memory — Memory that stores information in
integrated circuits containing capacitors.
driver — Software that allows the operating system to control a device such as a
printer. Many devices do not work properly if the correct driver is not installed in the
computer.
DSL — Digital Subscriber Line — A technology that provides a constant, high-speed
Internet connection through an analog telephone line.
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dual-core — An Intel technology in which two physical computational units exist
inside a single processor package, thereby increasing computing efficiency and multi-
tasking ability.
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Glossary
dual display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as an
extension of your display. Also referred to as extended display mode.
DVD-R — DVD recordable — A recordable version of a DVD. Data can be recorded
only once onto a DVD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.
DVD+RW — DVD rewritable — A rewritable version of a DVD. Data can be written
to a DVD+RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). (DVD+RW
technology is different from DVD-RW technology.)
DVD+RW drive — drive that can read DVDs and most CD media and write to
DVD+RW (rewritable DVDs) discs.
DVI — digital video interface — A standard for digital transmission between a
computer and a digital video display.
E
ECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special
circuitry for testing the accuracy of data as it passes in and out of memory.
ECP — extended capabilities port — A parallel connector design that provides
improved bidirectional data transmission. Similar to EPP, ECP uses direct memory
access to transfer data and often improves performance.
EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE
interface for hard drives and CD drives.
EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical interference caused by
electromagnetic radiation.
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ENERGY STAR — Environmental Protection Agency requirements that decrease
the overall consumption of electricity.
EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector design that provides
bidirectional data transmission.
ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of static electricity. ESD can
damage integrated circuits found in computer and communications equipment.
expansion card — A circuit board that installs in an expansion slot on the system
board in some computers, expanding the capabilities of the computer. Examples
include video, modem, and sound cards.
expansion slot — A connector on the system board (in some computers) where you
insert an expansion card, connecting it to the system bus.
ExpressCard — A removable I/O card adhering to the PCMCIA standard. Modems
and network adapters are common types of ExpressCards. ExpressCards support both
the PCI Express and USB 2.0 standard.
Glossary
181
Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™ computer.
Use the Express Service Code when contacting Dell for assistance. Express Service
Code service may not be available in some countries.
extended display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as
an extension of your display. Also referred to as dual display mode.
extended PC Card — A PC Card that extends beyond the edge of the PC Card slot
when installed.
F
Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale where 32° is the freezing point and
212° is the boiling point of water.
FBD — fully-buffered DIMM — A DIMM with DDR2 DRAM chips and an
Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) that speeds communication between the DDR2
SDRAM chips and the system.
FCC — Federal Communications Commission — A U.S. agency responsible for
enforcing communications-related regulations that state how much radiation
computers and other electronic equipment can emit.
fingerprint reader — A strip sensor that uses your unique fingerprint to authenticate
your user identity to help secure your computer.
folder — A term used to describe space on a disk or drive where files are organized and
grouped. Files in a folder can be viewed and ordered in various ways, such as
alphabetically, by date, and by size.
format — The process that prepares a drive or disk for file storage. When a drive or
disk is formatted, the existing information on it is lost.
FSB — front side bus — The data path and physical interface between the processor
and RAM.
FTP — file transfer protocol — A standard Internet protocol used to exchange files
between computers connected to the Internet.
G
G — gravity — A measurement of weight and force.
GB — gigabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1024 MB
(1,073,741,824 bytes). When used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often
rounded to 1,000,000,000 bytes.
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Glossary
GHz — gigahertz — A measurement of frequency that equals one thousand million Hz,
or one thousand MHz. The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces are
often measured in GHz.
graphics mode — A video mode that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical
pixels by z colors. Graphics modes can display an unlimited variety of shapes and fonts.
GUI — graphical user interface — Software that interacts with the user by means of
menus, windows, and icons. Most programs that operate on the Windows operating
systems are GUIs.
H
hard drive — A drive that reads and writes data on a hard disk. The terms hard drive
and hard disk are often used interchangeably.
heat sink — A metal plate on some processors that helps dissipate heat.
hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves everything in memory to a
reserved space on the hard drive and then turns off the computer. When you restart
the computer, the memory information that was saved to the hard drive is
automatically restored.
HDMI — The High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an all-digital
audio/video interface capable of transmitting uncompressed streams.
HTTP — hypertext transfer protocol — A protocol for exchanging files between
computers connected to the Internet.
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.
Hz — hertz — A unit of frequency measurement that equals 1 cycle per second.
Computers and electronic devices are often measured in kilohertz (kHz), megahertz (MHz),
gigahertz (GHz), or terahertz (THz).
I
IC — integrated circuit — A semiconductor wafer, or chip, on which thousands or
millions of tiny electronic components are fabricated for use in computer, audio, and
video equipment.
IDE — integrated device electronics — An interface for mass storage devices in which
the controller is integrated into the hard drive or CD drive.
IEEE 1394 — Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. — A high-
performance serial bus used to connect IEEE 1394-compatible devices, such as digital
cameras and DVD players, to the computer.
Glossary
183
infrared sensor — A port that allows you to transfer data between the computer and
infrared-compatible devices without using a cable connection.
integrated — Usually refers to components that are physically located on the
computer’s system board. Also referred to as built-in.
I/O — input/output — An operation or device that enters and extracts data from your
computer. Keyboards and printers are I/O devices.
I/O address — An address in RAM that is associated with a specific device (such as a
serial connector, parallel connector, or expansion slot) and allows the processor to
communicate with that device.
IrDA — Infrared Data Association — The organization that creates international
standards for infrared communications.
IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway assigned to a specific device so
that the device can communicate with the processor. Each device connection must be
assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share the same IRQ assignment, you
cannot operate both devices simultaneously.
ISP — Internet service provider — A company that allows you to access its host server
to connect directly to the Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access websites.
The ISP typically provides you with a software package, user name, and access phone
numbers for a fee.
K
Kb — kilobit — A unit of data that equals 1024 bits. A measurement of the capacity of
memory integrated circuits.
KB — kilobyte — A unit of data that equals 1024 bytes but is often referred to as
1000 bytes.
key combination — A command requiring you to press multiple keys at the same
time.
kHz — kilohertz — A measurement of frequency that equals 1000 Hz.
L
LAN — local area network — A computer network covering a small area. A LAN
usually is confined to a building or a few nearby buildings. A LAN can be connected to
another LAN over any distance through telephone lines and radio waves to form a
wide area network (WAN).
LCD — liquid crystal display — The technology used by portable computer and flat-
panel displays.
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Glossary
LED — light-emitting diode — An electronic component that emits light to indicate
the status of the computer.
local bus — A data bus that provides a fast throughput for devices to the processor.
LPT — line print terminal — The designation for a parallel connection to a printer or
other parallel device.
M
Mb — megabit — A measurement of memory chip capacity that equals 1024 Kb.
Mbps — megabits per second — One million bits per second. This measurement is
typically used for transmission speeds for networks and modems.
MB — megabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB
equals 1024 KB. When used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often rounded to
1,000,000 bytes.
MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes per second. This measurement
is typically used for data transfer ratings.
media bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a
Dell TravelLite™ module.
memory — A temporary data storage area inside your computer. Because the data in
memory is not permanent, it is recommended that you frequently save your files while
you are working on them, and always save your files before you shut down the computer.
Your computer can contain several different forms of memory, such as RAM, ROM,
and video memory. Frequently, the word memory is used as a synonym for RAM.
memory address — A specific location where data is temporarily stored in RAM.
memory mapping — The process by which the computer assigns memory addresses to
physical locations at start-up. Devices and software can then identify information that
the processor can access.
memory module — A small circuit board containing memory chips, which connects to
the system board.
MHz — megahertz — A measure of frequency that equals 1 million cycles per second.
The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in MHz.
Mini PCI — A standard for integrated peripheral devices with an emphasis on
communications such as modems and NICs. A Mini PCI card is a small external card
that is functionally equivalent to a standard PCI expansion card.
Mini-Card — A small card designed for integrated peripherals, such as
communication NICs. The Mini-Card is functionally equivalent to a standard PCI
expansion card.
Glossary
185
Mobile Broadband network — (also known as a WWAN) is a series of interconnected
computers that communicate with each other through wireless cellular technology
and provides Internet access in the same varied locations from which cellular
telephone service is available. Your computer can maintain the Mobile Broadband
network connection regardless of its physical location, as long as the computer remains
in the service area of your cellular service provider.
modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers
over analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, and
internal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail.
module bay — See media bay.
MP — megapixel — A measure of image resolution used for digital cameras.
ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second.
Access times of storage devices are often measured in ms.
N
network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may
include a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an
adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interface controller).
NIC — See network adapter.
notification area — The section of the Windows taskbar that contains icons for
providing quick access to programs and computer functions, such as the clock, volume
control, and print status. Also referred to as system tray.
ns — nanosecond — A measure of time that equals one billionth of a second.
NVRAM — nonvolatile random access memory — A type of memory that stores data
when the computer is turned off or loses its external power source. NVRAM is used for
maintaining computer configuration information such as date, time, and other system
setup options that you can set.
O
optical drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read or write data from CDs,
DVDs, or DVD+RWs. Example of optical drives include CD drives, DVD drives,
CD-RW drives, and CD-RW/DVD combo drives.
186
Glossary
P
parallel connector — An I/O port often used to connect a parallel printer to your
computer. Also referred to as an LPT port.
partition — A physical storage area on a hard drive that is assigned to one or more
logical storage areas known as logical drives. Each partition can contain multiple
logical drives.
PC Card — A removable I/O card adhering to the PCMCIA standard. Modems and
network adapters are common types of PC Cards.
PCI — peripheral component interconnect — PCI is a local bus that supports 32-and
64-bit data paths, providing a high-speed data path between the processor and devices
such as video, drives, and networks.
PCI Express — A modification to the PCI interface that boosts the data transfer rate
between the processor and the devices attached to it. PCI Express can transfer data at
speeds from 250 MB/sec to 4 GB/sec. If the PCI Express chip set and the device are
capable of different speeds, they will operate at the slower speed.
PCMCIA — Personal Computer Memory Card International Association — The
organization that establishes standards for PC Cards.
PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two
devices through the processor as part of the data path.
pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are arranged in rows and columns to
create an image. A video resolution, such as 800 x 600, is expressed as the number of
pixels across by the number of pixels up and down.
Plug-and-Play — The ability of the computer to automatically configure devices. Plug
and Play provides automatic installation, configuration, and compatibility with
existing hardware if the BIOS, operating system, and all devices are Plug and Play
compliant.
POST — power-on self-test — Diagnostics programs, loaded automatically by the
BIOS, that perform basic tests on the major computer components, such as memory,
hard drives, and video. If no problems are detected during POST, the computer
continues the start-up.
processor — A computer chip that interprets and executes program instructions.
Sometimes the processor is referred to as the CPU (central processing unit).
PS/2 — personal system/2 — A type of connector for attaching a PS/2-compatible
keyboard, mouse, or keypad.
PXE — pre-boot execution environment — A WfM (Wired for Management)
standard that allows networked computers that do not have an operating system to be
configured and started remotely.
Glossary
187
R
RAID — redundant array of independent disks — A method of providing data
redundancy. Some common implementations of RAID include RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 5, RAID 10, and RAID 50.
RAM — random-access memory — The primary temporary storage area for program
instructions and data. Any information stored in RAM is lost when you shut down your
computer.
readme file — A text file included with a software package or hardware product.
Typically, readme files provide installation information and describe new product
enhancements or corrections that have not yet been documented.
read-only — Data and/or files you can view but cannot edit or delete. A file can have
read-only status if:
• It resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
• It is located on a network in a directory and the system administrator has assigned
rights only to specific individuals.
refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines
are recharged (sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency). The higher the
refresh rate, the less video flicker can be seen by the human eye.
resolution — The sharpness and clarity of an image produced by a printer or displayed
on a monitor. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image.
RFI — radio frequency interference — Interference that is generated at typical radio
frequencies, in the range of 10 kHz to 100,000 MHz. Radio frequencies are at the
lower end of the electromagnetic frequency spectrum and are more likely to have
interference than the higher frequency radiations, such as infrared and light.
ROM — read-only memory — Memory that stores data and programs that cannot be
deleted or written to by the computer. ROM, unlike RAM, retains its contents after
you shut down your computer. Some programs essential to the operation of your
computer reside in ROM.
RPM — revolutions per minute — The number of rotations that occur per minute.
Hard drive speed is often measured in rpm.
RTC — real time clock — Battery-powered clock on the system board that keeps the
date and time after you shut down the computer.
RTCRST — real-time clock reset — A jumper on the system board of some computers
that can often be used for troubleshooting problems.
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Glossary
S
SAS — serial attached SCSI — A faster, serial version of the SCSI interface (as opposed
to the original SCSI parallel architecture).
SATA — serial ATA — A faster, serial version of the ATA (IDE) interface.
ScanDisk — A Microsoft utility that checks files, folders, and the hard disk’s surface
for errors. ScanDisk often runs when you restart the computer after it has stopped
responding.
SCSI — small computer system interface — A high-speed interface used to connect
devices to a computer, such as hard drives, CD drives, printers, and scanners. The
SCSI can connect many devices using a single controller. Each device is accessed by an
individual identification number on the SCSI controller bus.
SDRAM — synchronous dynamic random-access memory — A type of DRAM that is
synchronized with the optimal clock speed of the processor.
serial connector — An I/O port often used to connect devices such as a handheld
digital device or digital camera to your computer.
Service Tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when
you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service
or technical support.
setup program — A program that is used to install and configure hardware and
software. The setup.exe or install.exe program comes with most Windows software
packages. Setup program differs from system setup.
shortcut — An icon that provides quick access to frequently used programs, files,
folders, and drives. When you place a shortcut on your Windows desktop and double-
click the icon, you can open its corresponding folder or file without having to find it
first. Shortcut icons do not change the location of files. If you delete a shortcut, the
original file is not affected. Also, you can rename a shortcut icon.
SIM — Subscriber Identity Module — A SIM card contains a microchip that encrypts
voice and data transmissions. SIM cards can be used in phones or portable computers.
smart card — A card that is embedded with a processor and a memory chip. Smart
cards can be used to authenticate a user on computers equipped for smart cards.
S/PDIF — Sony/Philips Digital Interface — An audio transfer file format that allows
the transfer of audio from one file to another without converting it to and from an
analog format, which could degrade the quality of the file.
standby mode — A power management mode that shuts down all unnecessary
computer operations to save energy.
Glossary
189
Strike Zone™ — Reinforced area of the platform base that protects the hard drive by
acting as a dampening device when a computer experiences resonating shock or is
dropped (whether the computer is on or off).
surge protectors — Prevent voltage spikes, such as those that may occur during an
electrical storm, from entering the computer through the electrical outlet. Surge
protectors do not protect against lightning strikes or against brownouts, which occur
when the voltage drops more than 20 percent below the normal AC-line voltage level.
Network connections cannot be protected by surge protectors. Always disconnect the
network cable from the network connector during electrical storms.
SVGA — super-video graphics array — A video standard for video cards and
controllers. Typical SVGA resolutions are 800 x 600 and 1024 x 768.
The number of colors and resolution that a program displays depends on the
capabilities of the monitor, the video controller and its drivers, and the amount of
video memory installed in the computer.
S-Video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or digital audio device to the
computer.
SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and
controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 1024.
SXGA+ — super-extended graphics array plus — A video standard for video cards and
controllers that supports resolutions up to 1400 x 1050.
system board — The main circuit board in your computer. Also known as the
motherboard.
system setup — A utility that serves as an interface between the computer hardware
and the operating system. System setup allows you to configure user-selectable options
in the BIOS, such as date and time or system password. Unless you understand what
effect the settings have on the computer, do not change the settings for this program.
T
TAPI — telephony application programming interface — Enables Windows programs
to operate with a wide variety of telephony devices, including voice, data, fax, and
video.
text editor — A program used to create and edit files that contain only text; for
example, Windows Notepad uses a text editor. Text editors do not usually provide
word wrap or formatting functionality (the option to underline, change fonts, and
so on).
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Glossary
TPM — trusted platform module — A hardware-based security feature that when
combined with security software enhances network and computer security by enabling
features such as file and e-mail protection.
travel module — A plastic device designed to fit inside the module bay of a portable
computer to reduce the weight of the computer.
U
UAC — user account control— Microsoft Windows Vista™ security feature that,
®
when enabled, provides an added layer of security between user accounts and access to
operating system settings.
UMA — unified memory allocation — System memory dynamically allocated to video.
UPS — uninterruptible power supply — A backup power source used when the
electrical power fails or drops to an unacceptable voltage level. A UPS keeps a
computer running for a limited amount of time when there is no electrical power. UPS
systems typically provide surge suppression and may also provide voltage regulation.
Small UPS systems provide battery power for a few minutes to enable you to shut
down your computer.
USB — universal serial bus — A hardware interface for a low-speed device such as a
USB-compatible keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner, set of speakers, printer,
broadband devices (DSL and cable modems), imaging devices, or storage devices.
Devices are plugged directly in to a 4-pin socket on your computer or in to a multi-port
hub that plugs in to your computer. USB devices can be connected and disconnected
while the computer is turned on, and they can also be daisy-chained together.
UTP — unshielded twisted pair — Describes a type of cable used in most telephone
networks and some computer networks. Pairs of unshielded wires are twisted to protect
against electromagnetic interference, rather than relying on a metal sheath around
each pair of wires to protect against interference.
UXGA — ultra extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and
controllers that supports resolutions up to 1600 x 1200.
V
video controller — The circuitry on a video card or on the system board (in computers
with an integrated video controller) that provides the video capabilities—in
combination with the monitor—for your computer.
video memory — Memory that consists of memory chips dedicated to video functions.
Video memory is usually faster than system memory. The amount of video memory
installed primarily influences the number of colors that a program can display.
Glossary
191
video mode — A mode that describes how text and graphics are displayed on a
monitor. Graphics-based software, such as Windows operating systems, displays in
video modes that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors.
Character-based software, such as text editors, displays in video modes that can be
defined as x columns by y rows of characters.
video resolution — See resolution.
virus — A program that is designed to inconvenience you or to destroy data stored on
your computer. A virus program moves from one computer to another through an
infected disk, software downloaded from the Internet, or e-mail attachments. When
an infected program starts, its embedded virus also starts.
A common type of virus is a boot virus, which is stored in the boot sectors of a floppy
disk. If the floppy disk is left in the drive when the computer is shut down and then
turned on, the computer is infected when it reads the boot sectors of the floppy disk
expecting to find the operating system. If the computer is infected, the boot virus may
replicate itself onto all the floppy disks that are read or written in that computer until
the virus is eradicated.
V — volt — The measurement of electric potential or electromotive force. One V appears
across a resistance of 1 ohm when a current of 1 ampere flows through that resistance.
W
W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One W is 1 ampere of current
flowing at 1 volt.
WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used to indicate the approximate
capacity of a battery. For example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for
1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours.
wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the Windows desktop. Change
your wallpaper through the Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in your favorite
picture and make it wallpaper.
WLAN — wireless local area network. A series of interconnected computers that
communicate with each other over the air waves using access points or wireless routers
to provide Internet access.
write-protected — Files or media that cannot be changed. Use write-protection when
you want to protect data from being changed or destroyed. To write-protect a 3.5-inch
floppy disk, slide its write-protect tab to the open position.
WPAN — wireless personal area network. A computer network used for communica-
tion among computer devices (including telephones and personal digital assistants)
close to one person.
192
Glossary
WWAN — wireless wide area network. A wireless high-speed data network using
cellular technology and covering a much larger geographic area than WLAN. Also
know as Mobile Broadband network.
WXGA — wide-aspect extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards
and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 800.
X
XGA — extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers
that supports resolutions up to 1024 x 768.
Z
ZIF — zero insertion force — A type of socket or connector that allows a computer
chip to be installed or removed with no stress applied to either the chip or its socket.
Zip — A popular data compression format. Files that have been compressed with the
Zip format are called Zip files and usually have a filename extension of .zip. A special
kind of zipped file is a self-extracting file, which has a filename extension of .exe. You
can unzip a self-extracting file by double-clicking it.
Zip drive — A high-capacity floppy drive developed by Iomega Corporation that uses
3.5-inch removable disks called Zip disks. Zip disks are slightly larger than regular
floppy disks, about twice as thick, and hold up to 100 MB of data.
Glossary
193
194
Glossary
Index
brightness
Numerics
adjusting, 41
8-in-1 memory card reader, 73
C
A
carnet, 152
audio device
connecting, 59
enabling, 67
CD
blank, 55
drive problems, 97
audio. See sound
cleaning
B
display, 172
keyboard, 172
touch pad, 173
battery
charge gauge, 45
charging, 47
checking the charge, 44
performance, 43
power meter, 45
removing, 48
computer
state, 123
storing, 49
blanks
slow performance, 99, 109
specifications, 159
stops responding, 107
ExpressCards, 71, 73
removing, 72, 74
Bluetooth wireless technology
card
connecting
audio device, 59
Mobile Broadband network, 80
TV, 59
device status light, 29
installing, 149
Blu-ray Disc, 56, 97
boot sequence, 170
contacting Dell, 158
Index
195
copying CDs
helpful tips, 56
how to, 54
documentation
ergonomics, 14
online, 15
copying DVDs
helpful tips, 56
how to, 54
safety, 14
warranty, 14
D
up, 67
Dell
contacting, 158
drivers
Dell Diagnostics
about, 118
about, 89
Utilities media, 91
about, 120
starting from your hard drive, 90
Dell MediaDirect
about, 26
Dell Diagnostics, 89
drives
problems, 108
problems, 97
Dell support site, 15
DellConnect, 154
See also hard drive
See also optical drive
DVD
Device Driver Rollback, 119
blank, 55
device latch release
description, 36
drive problems, 97
device status lights
description, 28
diagnostics
Dell, 89
End User License Agreement, 14
ergonomics information, 14
error messages, 100
display
adjusting brightness, 41
description, 26
ExpressCard slot
description, 33
resolution, 42
switching the video image, 41
196
Index
ExpressCards, 71
blanks, 71-73
installing, 72
K
keyboard
numeric keypad, 37
problems, 106
removing, 136
shortcuts, 37
removing, 72
F
FCM. See Flash Cache Module
Flash Cache Module, 147
H
Microsoft Windows, 14
Service Tag, 14
hard drive
problems, 98
replacing, 131
returning to Dell, 133
lost computer, 87
hardware
Dell Diagnostics, 89
M
hinge cover
removing, 134
Dell MediaDirect button, 58
description, 27
I
removing, 138-139
replacing, 140
IEEE 1394 connector
description, 31
problems, 105
memory card, 73
blanks, 74
installing, 143
Internet connection
about, 19
installing, 73
reader, 27
options, 19
removing, 74
types, 73
setting up, 20
Index
197
memory card reader, 73
P
memory module cover
description, 36
phone numbers, 158
power
messages
error, 100
protection devices, 23
surge protectors, 23
UPS, 23
microphone
directional, 69
Mini-Card
power button
description, 26
installing, 142
Mobile Broadband
network connections, 80
problems, 110
power light
conditions, 111
See also wireless switch
printer
modem connector
description, 35
problems, 112
setting up, 21
USB, 22
monitor. See display
N
problems
blue screen, 108
network
CD drive, 97
find info, 13
CD-RW drive, 97
computer crashes, 107-108
computer does not start up, 107
computer stops responding, 107
Dell Diagnostics, 89
Dell MediaDirect, 108
drives, 97
installing WLAN Mini-Card, 142
Mobile Broadband
(WWAN), 110
problems, 110
network connector
description, 32
DVD drive, 97
error messages, 100
hard drive, 98
O
operating system
reinstalling Windows Vista, 123,
125
IEEE 1394 connector, 105
keyboard, 106
lockups, 107
198
Index
network, 110
S
power, 111
S/PDIF digital audio
power light conditions, 111
printer, 112
safety instructions, 14
program stops responding, 108
programs and Windows
compatibility, 108
screen. See display
restore computer to previous
operating state, 123
restore operating system to
previous state, 122
scanner, 113
security cable slot
description, 33
Module
slow computer performance, 99,
109
software
software, 107-109
sound and speakers, 114
speakers, 114
problems, 108-109
incompatibilities, 121
spyware, 99, 109
video and monitor
sound
Product Information Guide, 14
problems, 114
volume, 114
speakers
Q
problems, 114
volume, 114
QuickSet Help, 16
specifications, 159
spyware, 99, 109
R
stolen computer, 87
RAM. See memory
Subscriber Identity Module, 142
regulatory information, 14
support
reinstalling
contacting Dell, 158
Windows Vista, 123, 125
support website, 15
resolution
setting, 42
System Restore, 122-123
Index
199
system setup program
screens, 170
video
problems, 116
viewing, 170
video controller
determining configuration, 25
T
volume
telephone numbers, 158
adjusting, 114
touch pad, 39
cleaning, 173
customizing, 40
W
touch pad buttons
description, 27
warranty information, 14
Windows
description, 27
Device Driver Rollback, 119
Windows Easy Transfer
wizard, 21
transferring information to a new
computer, 21
traveling with the computer
by air, 152
identification tag, 151
packing, 151
reinstalling, 123, 125
System Restore, 122-123
Windows Easy Transfer wizard, 21
tips, 152
troubleshooting
wizards
Dell Diagnostics, 89
wizard, 108
restore computer to previous
operating state, 122-123
Windows Easy Transfer, 21
WLAN, 143
TV
installing Mini-Card, 142
connecting, 59
WWAN
installing, 145
See Mobile Broadband
U
uninterruptible power supply.
See UPS
UPS, 23
200
Index
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