Dell M301Z manual

SETUP GUIDE INSPIRON ™[...]

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SETUP GUIDE Regulatory model: P11S series Regulatory type: P11S001; P11S002 INSPIRON ™[...]

Notes, Cautions, and W arnings NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer . CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. WARNING: A W ARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury , or death. If you purch[...]

3 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop . . . . . . . . . . 5 Before Setting Up Y our Computer . . . . . . . . . 5 Connect the AC Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Connect the Network Cable (Optional) . . . . . 7 Press the Power Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Set Up the Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Create System Recov[...]

4 Contents Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 4 Memory Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 6 Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . 4 7 Using Support T ools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Dell Support Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 9 My Dell Downloads . . . . . . . . [...]

5 This section provides information about setting up your Dell ™ Inspiron ™ laptop. Before Setting Up Y our Computer When positioning your computer , ensure that you allow easy access to a power source, adequate ventilation, and a level surface to place your computer . Restricting airflow around your Inspiron laptop may cause it to overheat. T [...]

6 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Connect the AC Adapter Connect the AC adapter to the computer and then plug it into an electrical outlet or surge protector . WARNING: 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 c[...]

7 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Connect the Network Cable (Optional) T o use a wired network connection, connect the network cable.[...]

8 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Press the Power Button[...]

9 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Set Up the Operating System Y our computer is preconfigured with the operating system you selected at the time of purchase. Set Up Microsoft Windows T o set up Microsoft ® Windows ® for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete. The Window[...]

10 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Create System Recovery Media (Recommended) NOTE: It is recommended that you create a system recovery media as soon as you set up Microsoft Windows. The system recovery media can be used to restore your computer to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer , while preserving data files (without[...]

11 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop T o create a system recovery media: Ensure that the AC adapter is connected (see “Connect the AC Adapter” on page 1. 6 ). Insert the disc or USB key in the computer . 2. Click 3. Start → Programs → Dell DataSafe Local Backup . Click 4. Create Recovery Media . Follow the instructions on the screen. 5. NOTE[...]

12 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Install the SIM Card (Optional) NOTE: Installing a SIM card is not required if you are using an EVDO card to access the Internet. Installing a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card on your computer allows you to connect to the Internet. T o access the Internet you must be within the network of your cellular servi[...]

13 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop 1 SIM card slot 2 SIM card 3 battery bay 2 3 1[...]

14 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional)[...]

15 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop NOTE: The wireless feature is available on your computer only if you ordered a WLAN card at the time of purchase. For more information on the cards supported by your computer , see “Specifications” on page 76. T o enable or disable wireless: Ensure that your computer is turned on. 1. Press the wireless key 2.[...]

16 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Connect the External Optical Drive (Optional) NOTE: Y our computer does not have an internal optical drive. Use an external optical drive for procedures that involve discs. Connect the external optical drive to the USB connectors on your computer .[...]

17 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Set Up the TV T uner (Optional) NOTE: Availability of the TV tuner may vary by region. T o set up the TV tuner for the first time: Click 1. Start → All Programs → Windows Media Center . Follow the instructions on the screen. 2. Connect to the Internet (Optional) T o connect to the Internet, you need an extern[...]

18 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Setting Up a Wired Connection If you are using a dial-up connection, • connect the telephone line to the optional external USB modem and to the telephone wall connector before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite • modem connection, contact your ISP or cellular [...]

19 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop Windows ® 7 Ensure that wireless is enabled on your 1. computer (see “Enable or Disable Wireless” on page 14 ). Save and close any open files, and exit any 2. open programs. Click 3. Start → Control Panel. In the search box, type 4. network and then click Network and Sharing Center → Connect to a network[...]

20 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop T o set up your Internet connection: Windows Vista Save and close any open files, and exit any 1. open programs. Click 2. Start → Control Panel . In the search box, type 3. network , and then click Network and Sharing Center → Set up a connection or network → Connect to the Internet . The Connect to the Int[...]

21 Setting Up Y our Inspiron Laptop[...]

22 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop This section provides information about the features available on your Inspiron laptop. Right V iew Features 1 2 3 4 5 INSPIRON[...]

23 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop 1 7-in-1 media card reader — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, videos, and documents stored on memory cards. NOTE: Y our computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the media card slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use wh[...]

24 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Left V iew Features 1 2[...]

25 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop 1 AC adapter connector — Connects to the AC adapter to power the computer and charge the battery . 2 USB 2.0 connectors (2) — Connect to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer , external drive, or MP3 player .[...]

26 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Back V iew Features 1 2 3 4 5 1 Connector cover — Covers the antenna-in connector , HDMI connector , and the mini- DisplayPort connector . 2 Antenna-in connector (on supported models) — Connects to an external antenna to view programs using the TV tuner card (optional). 3 HDMI connector — Connects to a TV for bo[...]

27 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Front V iew Features 1 2 3 1 Power indicator light — Indicates the power states. For more information on the power indicator light, see “Status Lights and Indicators” on page 28. 2 Hard drive activity light — T urns on when the computer reads or writes data. A solid white light indicates hard drive activity . [...]

28 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Status Lights and Indicators Battery Status Light Indicator light status Computer state(s) Battery charge level AC adapter solid white on off/hibernate/standby charging <=98% off on/off/hibernate/stanby >98% Battery off on/off/hibernate/ standby >10% solid amber on/standby <=10% off off/hibernate <10% N[...]

29 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Power Button Light/Power Indicator Light Indicator light status Computer state(s) solid white breathing white off on standby off/hibernate NOTE: For information on power problems, see “Power Problems” on page 44.[...]

30 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Computer Base and Keyboard Features 1 2 3 4[...]

31 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop 1 Power button and light — T urns the computer on or off when pressed. The light on the button indicates the power states. For more information on the power button light, see “Status Lights and Indicators” on page 28. 2 Function key row — The wireless enable or disable key , brightness increase and decrease ke[...]

32 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop T ouch Pad Gestures Scroll Allows you to scroll through content. The scroll feature includes: Pan — Allows you to move the focus on the selected object when the entire object is not visible. Move two fingers in the desired direction to pan scroll the selected object. Auto Scroll V ertical — Allows you to scroll up[...]

33 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Zoom Allows you to increase or decrease the magnification of the screen content. The zoom feature includes: Pinch — Allows you to zoom in or zoom out by moving two fingers apart or bringing them closer together on the touch pad. T o zoom in: Move two fingers apart to enlarge the view of the active window . T o zoom [...]

34 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Multimedia Control Keys The multimedia control keys are located on the function key row on the keyboard. T o use the multimedia controls, press the required key . Y ou can configure the multimedia control keys using the System Setup (BIOS) Utility or the Windows Mobility Center . System Setup (BIOS) Utility Press <[...]

35 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Mute the sound Play the previous track or chapter Decrease the volume level Play or pause Increase the volume level Play the next track or chapter[...]

36 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Display Features The display panel holds a camera and a microphone. 1 2 3 4[...]

37 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop 1 Microphone — Provides high quality sound for video conferencing and voice recording. 2 Camera activity indicator — Indicates if the camera is on or off. 3 Camera — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. 4 Display — Y our display can vary based on selections you made when purchasing your c[...]

38 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Removing and Replacing the Battery WARNING: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer . WARNING: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. This computer should only use a battery purchased from Dell. Do not use[...]

39 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop 1 battery release latch 2 battery 2 1[...]

40 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Software Features NOTE: For more information about the features described in this section, see the Dell T echnology Guide on your hard drive or at support.dell.com/manuals . FastAccess Facial Recognition Y ou r c omp ute r m ay hav e t he Fas tAc ces s f aci al rec ogn iti on fea tur e. Thi s f eat ure he lps ke ep yo[...]

41 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Entertainment and Multimedia NOTE: Y our computer does not have an internal optical drive, use an external optical drive or any external storage device for the procedures that involve discs. Y ou can use your computer to watch videos, play games, creat e your own C Ds/DVD s, and liste n to music and Internet radio sta[...]

42 Using Y our Inspiron Laptop Dell Dock The Dell Dock is a group of icons that provides easy access to frequently-used applications, files, and folders. Y ou can personalize the Dock by: Adding or removing icons • Grouping related icons into categories • Changing the color and location of the Dock • Changing the behavior of the icon[...]

43 This section provides troubleshooting information for your computer . If you cannot solve your problem using the following guidelines, see “Using Support T ools” on page 49 or “Contacting Dell” on page 7 3. WARNING: Only trained service personnel should remove the computer cover . See the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals for ad[...]

44 Solving Problems Network Problems Wireless Connections If the wireless network connection is lost — The wireless router is offline or wireless has been disabled on the computer . Check your wireless router to ensure it is • powered on and connected to your data source (cable modem or network hub). Ensure that wireless is enabled on your ?[...]

45 Solving Problems T emporarily bypass power protection • devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on properly . Ensure that the electrical outlet is working • by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. Check the AC adapter connections. If the AC • adapter has a light, ensure that t[...]

46 Solving Problems Memory Problems 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 the Service Manual at suppor[...]

47 Solving Problems Lockups and Software Problems If the computer does not start up — Ensure that the AC adapter is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet. If a program stops responding — End the program: Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously . 1. Click 2. Applications . Select the program that is no l[...]

48 Solving Problems T o run the Program Compatibility Wizard: Windows Vista ® Click 1. Start → Control Panel → Programs → Use an older program with this version of Windows . In the welcome screen, click 2. Next . Follow the instructions on the screen. 3. Windows ® 7 Click 1. Start → Control Panel → Programs → Run programs made for pre[...]

49 Dell Support Center The Dell Support Center helps you find the service, support, and system-specific information you need. T o launch the application, click the ic on i n th e taskbar . The Dell Support Center home page displays your computer’ s model number , service tag, express service code, and service contact information. The home page al[...]

50 Using Support T ools My Dell Downloads NOTE: My Dell Downloads may not be available in all regions. Some of the software pre-installed on your new computer do not include a backup CD or DVD. This software is available at My Dell Downloads. From this website you can download available software for reinstallation or create your own backup media. T[...]

51 Using Support T ools Alert! Previous attempts at booting this system have failed at checkpoint [nnnn]. For help in resolving this problem, please note this checkpoint and contact Dell T echnical Support — The computer failed to complete the boot routine three consecutive times for the same error . Contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on pag[...]

52 Using Support T ools No boot device available — No bootable partition on hard drive, the hard drive cable is loose, or no bootable device exists. If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure • that the cables are connected and that the drive is installed properly and partitioned as a boot device. Enter system setup and ensure that the bo[...]

53 Using Support T ools Hardware T roubleshooter If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware T roubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility . T o start the Hardware T roubleshooter: Click 1. Start → Help and Support . T ype 2. hardware troubleshooter in t[...]

54 Using Support T ools Starting Dell Diagnostics From Y our 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 73 ). Ensure that the computer is connected to an 1. electrical outlet that is know[...]

55 Using Support T ools If you are experiencing memory issues, c. press <y>, otherwise press <n>. The following message is displayed: “Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue . ” Press any key to go to the d. Choose An Option window . If PSA is not invoked: Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics fro[...]

56 Using Support T ools Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Disc NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities disc may not ship with your computer . NOTE: Y our computer does not have an internal optical drive, use an external optical drive or any external storage device for the procedures that involve discs. Insert the 1. Drivers and Utili[...]

57 Using Support T ools If you encounter a problem during a test, 8. a message with the error code and a description of the problem will appear on your screen. Write down the error code and problem description and contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 73 ). NOTE: The Service T ag for your computer is displayed at the top of each test scre[...]

58 Y ou can restore the operating system on your computer using any of the following options: CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image Restore or the Operating System disc permanently deletes all data files on your computer . If possible, backup your data files before using these options. Option Use System Restore as the first solution Dell DataSafe Local[...]

59 Restoring Y our Operating System System Restore The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. Any changes th[...]

60 Restoring Y our Operating System Dell DataSafe Local Backup CAUTION: Using Dell DataSafe Local Backup permanently removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer . Prepare backup media of applications you need to install on your computer before using Dell DataSafe Local Backup. Use Dell DataSafe Local Backup only if Sy[...]

61 Restoring Y our Operating System When the DELL 4. ™ logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the Advanced Boot Options window . 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. Select 5. Repair Y our Compute[...]

62 Restoring Y our Operating System System Recovery Media CAUTION: Although the system recovery media is designed to preserve the data files on your computer , it is recommended that you backup your data files before using the system recovery media. Y ou can use the system recovery media, created using Dell DataSafe Local Backup, to return your har[...]

63 Restoring Y our Operating System Dell Factory Image Restore CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer . If possible, back up the data before using this option. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not[...]

64 Restoring Y our Operating System Starting Dell Factory Image Restore T urn on the computer . 1. When the DELL 2. ™ logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the Advanced Boot Options window . NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft ® Windows ® desktop; then, [...]

65 If you experience a problem with your computer , you can complete the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem: See “Solving Problems” on page 1. 43 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. See the 2. Dell T echnology Guide on your hard drive or at support.dell.com/manuals for [...]

66 Getting Help T echnical Support and Customer Service Dell’ s support service is available to answer your questions about Dell hardware. Our support staff use computer -based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers. T o contact Dell’ s support service, see “Before Y ou Call” on page 71 and then see the contact information for your r[...]

67 Getting Help Online Services Y ou 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 • (Cana[...]

68 Getting Help Automated Order -Status Service T o 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 . If you have a problem with your order , such as missing part[...]

69 Getting Help Returning Items for Repair Under W arranty or for Credit Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: NOTE: Before you return the product to Dell, make sure to back up any data on the hard drive(s) and on any other storage device in the product. Remove any and all confidential, proprietary and personal[...]

70 Getting Help Pack the equipment to be returned in the 5. original (or equivalent) packing materials. NOTE: Y ou are responsible for paying shipping expenses. Y ou 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. NOTE: Returns t[...]

71 Getting Help Before Y ou 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 . Y ou may also be asked for your Service T ag. Locating Y our Service T ag The Service T ag for your computer can be found on a label at the bottom of your compute[...]

72 Getting Help Remember to fill out the following Diagnostic Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer . Y ou may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at[...]

73 Getting Help See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the computer’ 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 • pr[...]

74 Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: reinstall your operating system “System Recovery Media” on page 62 run a diagnostic program for your computer , “Dell Diagnostics” on page 5 3 reinstall laptop system software “My Dell Downloads” on page 50 find more information about the Microsoft ® Windows ® operating sy[...]

75 Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: find safety best practices information for your computer review W arranty information, T erms and Conditions (U.S. only), Safety instructions, Regulatory information, Ergonomics information, and End User License Agreement the safety and regulatory documents that shipped with your comput[...]

76 Computer Model Dell ™ Inspiron ™ M301Z Processor Inspiron M301Z AMD ™ Athlon ™ AMD Athlon Dual-Core AMD T urion ™ Dual-Core System Chipset Inspiron M301Z AMD RS880M Memory Memory module connector two user -accessible SODIMM connectors Memory module capacities 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB Minimum memory 2 GB Specifications This section provides[...]

77 Specications Memory Maximum memory 8 GB Possible memory configurations 2 GB, 3 GB, 4 GB, 5 GB, 6 GB, and 8 GB Memory type 1333 MHz SODIMM DDR3 (runs at 800 MHz) NOTE: For instructions on upgrading the memory , see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals . Communications Modem (optional) External V .92 56K USB modem Network adapter 10/1[...]

78 Specications Video Inspiron M301Z UMA Video controller A TI Mobility Radeon ™ HD 4225 Video memory up to 3067 MB + 128 MB (side port memory) of shared memory Display T ype 13.3” HD WLED, T rueLife Display area : Height 293.41 mm (11.55 inches) Width 164.96 mm (6.49 inches) Diagonal 337.8 mm (13.30 inches) Camera Pixel 1.3 megapixel Video [...]

79 Specications Connectors HDMI connector one 19-pin connector Network adapter one RJ45 connector USB two four -pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors e S ATA one seven-pin/four- pin eSA T A/USB combo connector Mini- DisplayPort one 20-pin connector Media Card Reader one 7-in-1 slot Antenna-in connector (optional) one MCX connector Battery T ypes and [...]

80 Specications AC Adapter NOTE: Use only AC adapters specified for use with your computer . See the safety information that shipped with your computer . Input voltage 100–240 V AC Input current (maximum) 1.7 A Input frequency 50–60 Hz Output power 65 W Output current: 3.34 A (continuous) Rated output voltage 19.5 +/- 1 VDC Operating tempera[...]

81 Specications Computer Environment T emperature 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) Storage 5% to 95% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration (using a random vibration spectrum that simulates user environment) : Operating 0.66 GRMS[...]

82 Appendix Macrovision Product Notice This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain 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[...]

83 Appendix Information for NOM, or Official Mexican Standard (Only for Mexico) The following information is provided in the device(s) described in this document in accordance with the requirements of the Official Mexican Standard (NOM): Importer: Dell México S.A. de C.V . Paseo de la Reforma 2620 – Flat 11° Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F [...]

84 A airflow , allowing 5 B backup and recovery 41 C calling Dell 73 computer capabilities 40 computer , setting up 5 Contacting Dell online 73 customer service 66 D DellConnect 66 Dell Diagnostics 53 Dell Support Center 49 Diagnostic Checklist 72 drivers and downloads 75 DVDs, playing and creating 41 E email addresses for technical support 67 F fi[...]

85 Index help getting assistance and support 65 I Internet connection 17 ISP Internet Service Provider 17 M memory problems solving 46 Mini-DisplayPort connector 26 N network connection fixing 44 P power/battery indicator lights 27 power problems, solving 44 power strips, using 6 problems, solving 43 products information and purchasing 68 R recover[...]

86 Index support email addresses 67 support sites worldwide 67 System Messages 50 system reinstall options 58 T touch pad gestures 32 V ventilation, ensuring 5 volume 35 W warranty returns 69 Windows Program Compatibility Wizard 47 wired network network cable, connecting 7 wireless network connection 18[...]

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0 H Y D 0 6 A 0 0 Printed in the U.S.A. www .dell.c om | support.dell. com[...]