Dell PP04X manual

www .dell.com | support.dell.com Dell™ Latitude™ D531 User’ s Guide Model PP04X[...]

Notes, Notices, and Cautions NOTE: A NOTE indicates important info rmation that helps you make better use of your computer . NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardw are or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for pro perty damage, personal injury , or death. Abbreviations [...]

Contents 3 Contents 1 Finding Information 2 About Y our Computer Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Left Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Right Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Back View . . . . . . . . . [...]

4 Contents Storing a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 5 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Key Combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Sy stem Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [...]

Contents 5 Using Blank CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Helpful T ips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Adjusting the Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 If the Co[...]

6 Contents 10 Securing Y our Computer Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Using a Primary/Sy stem Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Using an Administrator Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [...]

Contents 7 Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 CD and DVD drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Error Messages [...]

8 Contents 13 Sy stem Setup Program Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Viewing the Sy stem Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Sy stem Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Commonly Used Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[...]

Contents 9 Mini-Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 Internal Card With Bluetooth ® Wireless T echnology . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126[...]

10 Contents 19 Specifications 20 Appendix FCC Notice (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 FCC Class B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Macrovision Product Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[...]

Finding Information 11 1 Finding Information NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer .Some features or media may be optional and ma y not ship with your computer . Some features or media may not be available in certain countries. What Are Y ou Looking For? Find It Here • A diagnostic program for my computer • Drivers for my com[...]

12 Findin g Informa tion • How to set up my computer • How to car e for my computer • Basic tr oubleshooting informat ion • How to run the Dell Diagnostic s • Error code s and diagn ostic li ghts • T ools and utilities • How to set up a printer • Addit ional information ab out setting up my co mputer • How to troubleshoot and solv[...]

Finding Information 13 • Service T ag a nd Express Servic e Code • Micro soft W indows Lice nse Label Service T ag and Microsoft ® Windows ® License These labels ar e located on your computer . • Use the Servi ce T ag t o identify your comp uter when you use support.dell.com or contact support. •Enter the Express Service Code to dir ect y[...]

14 Findin g Informa tion • Software upgrades and trou bleshooti ng hints • F requently ask ed quest ions, hot topics, and general health of your comput ing environme nt Dell Support Utility The Dell Support Utility is an automated upgrade and notification system installe d on your computer . This support provides real-time health scans of your [...]

About Y our Computer 15 2 About Y our Computer Front V iew 1 display latch 2 display 3 power b utton 4 device status lights 5 speak ers (2) 6 key bo ard 7 touch pad 8 touch p ad buttons 9 key bo ard st a tu s l i gh ts 10 wireless enab le/disable button 11 ambient light sensor 1 5 2 9 7 4 10 3 6 8 11[...]

16 About Y our Computer DISPLAY LATCH — Keeps the display closed. DISPLAY — F or more information about your display , see "Using the Display" on page 41. POWER BUTTON — Press the power button to turn on the computer or e xit a power management mode (see "P ower Management Modes" on page 32). NOTICE: T o avoid losing data,[...]

About Y our Computer 17 If the computer is connected to an electric al outlet, the light operates as follows: • Solid g reen: The battery is charg ing. • Flashing green: The battery is almo st fully charged. If the computer is running on a battery , the light operates as follows: • Off: The battery is adequately charge d (or the computer is t[...]

18 About Y our Computer KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS The green li ghts located above the keyboard indicate the followi ng: Left Side V iew T urns on when the numeric keypad is enabled. T urns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled. T urns on when the scroll lock function is enabled. 9 A 1 23 4 5 6[...]

About Y our Computer 19 SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Le ts you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer . F or more information, see the instructions included with the device. NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cabl e slot. AIR VENT — The computer uses an internal fan to cr ea[...]

20 About Y our Computer PC C ARD SLOT — Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter , or an ExpressCard in an adapter . The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the sl ot. F or more information, see "Using Cards" on page 67. HARD DRIVE — Stor es software and data. Right Side V iew MEDIA BAY — Y ou can instal[...]

About Y our Computer 21 NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45) NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector . T o avoid damaging the computer , do not plug a telephone line into the network connector . S- VIDEO TV- OUT CONNECTOR USB CONNECTORS 1 networ k connec tor (RJ -45) 2 S-video TV -out connector 3 USB connectors (2) 4 modem co[...]

22 About Y our Computer MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11) SERIAL CONNECTOR VGA CONNECTOR AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR — Attach an AC adapter to the computer . The AC adapter converts AC pow er to the DC power requir ed by the computer . Y ou can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either on or off. CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets[...]

About Y our Computer 23 from overheating. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumu late in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is runni ng. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the co[...]

24 About Y our Computer MEMORY MODULE / COIN - CELL BATTERY COVER — Covers the compartment that co ntains one memory module and the coin-cell battery . F or additional informatio n, see "Adding and Replacing P arts" on page 111. DOCKING DEVICE SLOT — Lets you attach your computer to a docking device. See the documentation that came wi[...]

T ransferring Information to a New Computer 25 3 T ransferring Information to a New Computer The Microsoft ® Wi n d o w s ® XP operating system provides the Fi les an d Settings T ransfer W izard to move data from a source computer to a ne w computer . Y ou can transfer data, such as: • E-mail messages • T oolbar settings •W i n d o w s i z[...]

26 T ransferring Information to a New Computer 4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Wi ndows XP CD → Next . 5 When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or s ource computer . Do not click Next at this time. T o copy data from the old computer: 1 On the old computer , insert th[...]

T ransferring Information to a New Computer 27 6 When the disk creati on completes and the Now go to your old computer message appears, do not click Next . 7 Go to the old computer . T o copy data from the old computer: 1 On the old computer , insert the wizard disk. 2 Click the Start → Run . 3 In the Open field on the Run window , browse to the [...]

28 T ransferring Information to a New Computer[...]

Using a Battery 29 4 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 . F o r optimal computer performance and to help pres erve BIOS s ettings, operate your Dell™ port able computer with the m[...]

30 Using a Battery CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries w ith household waste. When your bat tery no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or envir onmental agency for advice on disposing of lithium-i on or lithium-polymer batteries. See "Battery Disposal" in the Product Information Guide . CAUTION: Misuse of the battery m[...]

Using a Battery 31 Check the Battery Health NOTE: Y ou can check battery health in one of two way s: by using the charge gauge on the battery as described below and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. Fo r information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar , and click Help . T o check the battery health using the charge gauge,[...]

32 Using a Battery Power Management Modes Standby Mode Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a pr edetermined period of inactivity (a time-out ). When the computer e xits standby mo de, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby mode. NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and batt[...]

Using a Battery 33 NOTE: Some PC Cards or ExpressCards may not operate co rrectly after the comput er exits hibernate mode. Remove and reinsert the card (see "" on page 69) , or simply restart (reboot) your computer . T o exit hibernate mode, pr ess the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit hibernate mode. Y ou cannot m[...]

34 Using a Battery NOTICE: Y ou must remove all external cables from the computer to avoid possible connector damage. F or information about replacing the second battery , which is located in the media bay , see "Remo ving and Installing Media Bay Devices" on pag e 128. T o remove the battery : 1 If the computer is connected to a docking [...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 35 5 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad Numeric Keypad Th e n u me r ic key pa d fu nc t io n s l ike th e nu m er ic key p ad on a n ex te r na l key bo a rd. Ea c h ke y o n th e keypad has multiple functions. The k eypad numbers and symbols are mark ed in blue on the right of the keypad k eys. T o type a number o[...]

36 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad Battery Wireless Display Functions Power Managemen t <Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter (see "Checking the Battery Char ge" on page 30). <Fn><F2> Enables and disables wireless networkin g and Bluetooth wireless technology . Displays the status for each radio de[...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 37 Speaker Functions Microsoft ® Windows ® Logo Key Functions T o adjust keyboard operation, such as the char acter r e peat rate, open the Control P anel, click Pr i n t e rs and Other Hardware , and click Key b o a r d . F or information about the Control P anel, see the W indows Help and Support Center . T o a[...]

38 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad • T o move the cursor , lightly slid e your finger over the touch pad. • T o select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch-pad button. • T o select and move (or drag) an object, position th e cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad.[...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 39 3 Click OK to save the settings and close the window .[...]

40 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad[...]

Update with your book title 41 6 Using the Display Display Properties Adjusting Brightness When a Dell™ computer is running on battery powe r , you can conserve powe r by setting the display brightness to the lowest comforta ble setting by pressing <Fn> an d the up- or down-arrow k ey on the keyboar d. NOTE: Brightness key combinations only[...]

42 Update with your book title NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with your Dell- installed operating sy stem. If you choose a r esolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settin gs adjust automatically to the cl osest supported values. T o set the display [...]

Update with your book title 43 • Advance View allows the advanc ed user to access and configure the complete feature set of the software. The Catalyst Control Center can be customized for easy access to the features you use most. Use the Catalyst Control Center to access a compre hensiv e online help syst em. In addition, you can connect to A TI [...]

44 Update with your book title Using an External Monitor Extending Y o ur Computer Display Y ou can attach an e xternal monitor or projector to your computer and use it as an extension of your display (known as "dual independent display" or "ext ended desktop" mode). This mo de al l ow s y ou t o u se both screens independently [...]

Update with your book title 45 3 In the Display Settings window , click the monitor 2 icon, click the Extend the desktop onto this monitor check box, and then click Apply . 4 Click OK to close the Display Settings window . T o disable extended desktop mode: 1 In the Display Settings window , click the Settings tab. 2 Click the monitor 2 icon, unche[...]

46 Update with your book title The ambient light sensor is located on the front of the computer display . The sensor detects available environmental light and automaticall y incr eases or decreases the display brightness to compensate for low-light and high- light environments . Because increased brightness uses more battery power , the sensor moni[...]

Update with your book title 47 NOTE: Rebooting the computer returns the am bient light sensor to the setting (either enabled or disabled) as it was before it was adjusted. NOTE: The ambient light sensor adjusts the display backli ghting on your portable computer only. It does not control the brightness on any ex ternal monitors or projectors.[...]

48 Update with your book title[...]

Using Multimedia 49 7 Using Multimedia Playing CDs or DVDs NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD/DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer wh ile playing CDs or DVDs. 1 P ress the eject button on the front of the drive. 2 P ull out the tray . 3 Place the disc, label sid[...]

50 Using Multimedia 4 P ush the tray back into the drive. T o format CDs for storing data , to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer . NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyri ght laws when you create CDs. A CD player includes the following basic buttons: A DVD player includes th e following basic buttons[...]

Using Multimedia 51 This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW , D VD+/-RW , or CD-R W/DVD (combo) drive. NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country. The following instructions explain ho w t o ma ke a n exa ct co p y o f a C D o r DVD u s in g R ox i o C rea to r Pl u s - Dell Edition. Y ou can also use R[...]

52 Using Multimedia CD-Writable Drives DVD-Writable Drives Helpful T ips • Use Microsoft ® Wi n d o w s ® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-R W only after you start Roxio Creator Plus and open a Cr eator project. • Use a CD-R to burn music CD s that you want to play in regular ster eos . A CD-R W may n ot play in many home or ca[...]

Using Multimedia 53 Adjusting the V olume NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing. 1 Open the Vo l u m e C o n t r o l window . 2 Click and drag the b ar in the Vo l u m e C o n t r o l column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume. F or more information on volume control options, click Help in t[...]

54 Using Multimedia 3 Under Screen resolution , click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution setting. 4 In the drop-down menu under Color quality , click Medium (16 bit) and click OK . Microsoft Windows V ista ® 1 Click the W indows Vista Start button → Control P anel → Appearance and P ersonalization . 2 Under P ersonalization , click Adju[...]

Using Multimedia 55 S-Vi deo and Standard Audio 1 T urn of f 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 c omputer (without the TV/digital audio cable). 2 Plug one[...]

56 Using Multimedia Setting Up the Cyberl ink (CL) Headphones NOTE: The CL headphone feature is available only if your computer has a DVD drive. If your computer has a DV D drive, you can enable digital audio for DVD playback. 1 Launch the Cyberlink P owerDVD program. 2 Insert a D VD into the D V D drive. If the D VD begins playing, click the stop [...]

Using Multimedia 57 4 Click the tab for your video card. NOTE: T o determine the type of video card installed in your computer , see the Windows Help and Support Center . T o access the Help and Support Center in Windows Vista , click the Windows Vista Start button → Help and Support . Under Pick a T ask , click Use T ools to view your c omputer [...]

58 Using Multimedia[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 59 8 Setting Up and Using Networks Setting up a computer network pr ovides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer , or a network. F or example, with a network set up in a ho me or small office you can print to a shared printer , access drives and fi les on another computer , br owse other[...]

60 Setting Up and Using Networks Setting Up a Network Wi n d o w s X P : 1 Click Start → All P rograms → Accessories → Communications → Network Setup Wi zard → Next → Checklist for creating a network . NOTE: Selecting the connection method lab eled This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided [...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 61 Start Button and Connect T o Option In Microsoft Windows XP , click Start → Connect T o → Show all connections . In Microsoft Windows V ista , click → Connect T o → V iew network computers and devices . If Wireless Network Connection does not appear under LAN or High-Speed Internet , you may not have a w ire[...]

62 Setting Up and Using Networks 9 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 th an the network cable connecting the modem and the wireless router , are connected to the broadband modem. NOTE: Restart your wireless equipment[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 63 • The W indows XP or W indows Vista operating system T o determin e which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network car d in W indows XP : 1 Click Start → Settings → Control P anel → Network Connections . 2 Right-click the Wireless Network Connection icon, and then click V iew Availabl[...]

64 Setting Up and Using Networks F or more informat ion about the Dell QuickSet wireless ac tivit y indicator , right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Help . Mobile Broadband (WW AN) A Mobile Broadband network, also known as a W ireless W ide Area Network (WW AN ), is a high-speed digital cellular network that provides Internet acc[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 65 On the My Computer Information - Hardware screen, you can view the type of Mobile Broadband card installed in your computer as we ll as other har dware components. NOTE: The Mobile Broadband card is listed under Modems . Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must acti[...]

66 Setting Up and Using Networks NOTE: Enabling Windows Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking software. F or mor e information, click Start → Control P anel → Security → Win d ow s Fire w al l , or click Start or → Windows Help and Support Center .[...]

Using Cards 67 9 Using Cards Card T ypes PC Cards See "Specifications" on page 141 for information on supported PC Cards. NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device. The PC Card slot has one connector that supports a single T ype I or T ype II card. The PC Card slot supports CardBus technology and extended PC Cards. "T ype" of car[...]

68 Using Cards www .dell.com | suppo rt.dell.com CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this s ection, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide and see "Before Work ing Inside Y our Computer" on page 112. T o install a PC Card: 1 Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the slot and the t[...]

Using Cards 69 Removing a PC Card or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this s ection, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide and see "Before Work ing Inside Y our Computer" on page 112. NOTICE: Use the PC Card configur ation utility (click the icon in the taskbar) to select a card and stop i[...]

70 Using Cards www .dell.com | suppo rt.dell.com 1 PC Card 2 r elease button 1 2[...]

Securing Y our Computer 71 10 Securing Y our Computer NOTE: For information on how to secure your computer whil e traveling, see "T raveling With Y our Computer" on page 133. Security Cable Lock NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the secur ity cable slot on your computer . NOTE: Y our computer does n[...]

72 Securing Y our Computer 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 addi tional forms of protection, such as smart cards, data encryption programs, or PC Cards with encryption features. NOTE: Some hard drives do not sup[...]

Securing Y our Computer 73 The administrator password can be used instead of the primary passwor d. Whenever you are prompted to enter the primary password, you ca n enter the administrator password. NOTICE: If you disable the administrator password, the primary password is also disabled. NOTE: The administrator password provides access to the comp[...]

74 Securing Y our Computer • Installing an administrative password on a system after the hard disk passwor d has been created will not enable unlocking of th e hard disk using the administrative password. T rusted Platform Module (TPM) NOTE: Computers shipping into China are not equipped with the TPM feature. NOTE: The TPM feature supports encryp[...]

Securing Y our Computer 75 NOTE: Computer tracking software may not be available in certain countries. NOTE: If you have computer tracking softwar e and your computer is lost or st olen, you must contact the company that provides the tracking service to report the missing compu ter . If Y our Computer Is Lost or Stolen • Call a law enforcement ag[...]

76 Securing Y our Computer[...]

Cleaning Y our Computer 77 11 Cleaning Y our Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this s ection, follow the safety instructions 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. Cl[...]

78 Cleaning Y our Computer 3 W ipe the ball with a clean, lint-free cloth. 4 Blow carefully into the ball cag e or use a can of compressed air to dislod ge dust and lint. 5 If the rollers inside th e ball cage are dirty , clean the rollers with a cotton sw ab moistened lightly with isopropyl alcohol. 6 Re-center the rollers in thei r channels if th[...]

T roubleshooting 79 12 T roubleshooting Dell T echnical Update Service The Dell T echnical Update service provides proactiv e e -m a il no t if ic a ti on o f s of tw a re a nd h ard wa re updates for your computer . The service is free an d can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you r eceive notifications. T o enroll for the Del[...]

80 T roubleshooting a When the DELL™ logo appears, pr ess <F12> immediately . Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press <Enter>. NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating sy stem l ogo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft ® Windows ® desktop; th en, shut down your computer and try again. NOTE: Before attemp[...]

T roubleshooting 81 2 After you have selected the Test System option from the main menu, the following menu appears. NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Test from the menu below to run a more thorough check of devices in the computer . 3 If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description o[...]

82 T roubleshooting 5 When the tests are complete, close th e test screen to r eturn to the Main Menu screen. T o exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer , close the Main Menu screen. 6 Remove the Dell Drivers and Utilities media (if applicable). Dell Support Utility The Dell Support Utility is in stalled on your computer and available f[...]

T roubleshooting 83 Clicking the Dell Support Icon Click or right-click the icon to perform the following tasks: • Check your computing environment. • V iew the Dell Support Utility settings. • Access the help file for the Dell Support Utility . • V iew frequently ask ed questions. • Learn more about the Dell Support Utility . • T urn t[...]

84 T roubleshooting CD and DVD drive p roblems NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD or DVD. NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DV D titles work in all DVD drives. Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive C LOSE OTH[...]

T roubleshooting 85 NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrato r on the computer , click Continue ; otherwise, contact your administr ator to continue the desired action. 4 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors → Start . E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proce[...]

86 T roubleshooting receive pop-up advertisement s , or you are having proble ms connecting to the I ntern et, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may requir e an upgrade) to scan the computer and r emove spyware. F or more information, go to support.dell.com an[...]

T roubleshooting 87 specific information—for e xample, Printer out of paper . T ake the appropriate action. H ARD - DIS K DRIVE CONFIGURATION ERROR — The computer cannot identify the drive type. Shut down the computer , remove the hard drive (see "Har d Drive" on page 113), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer [...]

88 T roubleshooting them. M EMORY ODD / EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS , READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory module s (see "Memory" on page 116) and, if necessary , replace them. M EMORY WRITE / READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS , READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory mo dule may [...]

T roubleshooting 89 T IME - OF - DAY NOT SET - PLEASE RUN THE S Y STEM S ETUP PROGRAM — The time or date stored in the system setup program does not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date and Ti me options (see "System Setup P rogram" on page 99). T IMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED — A chip on the system board may be malf[...]

90 T roubleshooting F ill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) 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 integr ated keyboard remains fully functional. External keyboa rd p[...]

T roubleshooting 91 The computer doe s not start up E NSURE THAT THE AC ADAPTER IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO TH E COMPUTER AND TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET . The computer stops re sponding NOTICE: Y ou might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating sy stem shutdown. T URN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a r esponse by pressi ng a key[...]

92 T roubleshooting • V erify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program. • If necessary , uninstall and then reinstall the program. B ACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY U SE A VIRUS - SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE , FLOP PY DISKS , OR CD S S AVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER THROUGH THE St[...]

T roubleshooting 93 C HECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE NETWORK CONNECTOR — No light indicates that n o network communication ex ists. Replace the network cable. P LUG THE A/C POWER ADAPTER INTO THE COMPUTER — If batter power only , the QuickSet utility can disable the onboard network ca rd to save battery life. F or more information on the QuickS[...]

94 T roubleshooting If the battery status light flashes gr een and orange , the battery is too hot to charge. Shut down the computer , dis connect the computer from the electri cal outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperatur e. If the battery status light rapidly flashe s orange, the battery may be defective. Contact Dell [...]

T roubleshooting 95 Printer Problems F ill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this s ection, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your prin ter , cont[...]

96 T roubleshooting Sound and Speaker Problems F ill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Ch ecklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this s ection, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . No sound from integ rated speakers A DJUST THE W IND[...]

T roubleshooting 97 C HECK THE MOUSE CABLE — Shut down the computer . Disconnect the mouse cable, check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable. If you are using a mouse extension ca ble, disconnect it and connect th e mouse dir ectly to the com puter . T O VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE , CHECK THE TOUCH PAD 1 Shut down the comp[...]

98 T roubleshooting If the display is difficult to read A DJUST THE BRIGHTNESS — P ress <Fn> and the u p- or down-arrow key . M OVE THE EXTERNAL SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER OR MONITOR — If your external speak er system includes a subwoofer , ensur e that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monito[...]

Sy stem Setup Program 99 13 Sy stem Setup Program Overview NOTE: Y our operating sy stem may automatically configure most of the options available in the sy stem setup program, thus overriding options that you set thr ough the sy stem setup progr am. (An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through the sy s[...]

100 Sy stem Setup Program Sy stem Setup Screens NOTE: For information about a specific item on a sy stem 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. T o the right of each option is the setting or value for that option. Y ou can change settings that appear as [...]

Sy stem Setup Program 101 Performing a One-T ime Boot Y ou can set a one-time-only boot sequence without ente ring the system setup program. (Y ou can also use this procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.) 1 Shut down the computer through the Start menu. 2 If the computer is connected to a doc[...]

Sy stem Setup Program 102[...]

Reinstalling Software 103 14 Reinstalling Software Drivers What Is a Driver? A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer , mouse, or keyboard. All devices requi re a driver program. A driver acts like a translator between the devi ce and any other programs that use the device. Each device has its own set of spe cialized comman ds[...]

104 Reinstalling Software www .dell.com | suppo rt.dell.com NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrator on the computer , click Continue ; otherwise, contact your administrat or to continue the desired action. Scroll down the list to see if any device has an ex clamation point (a yellow circle with a [ !] ) on the[...]

Reinstalling Software 105 In most cases, the media starts running automati cally . If it does not, start W indows Explorer , click your CD or DVD drive directory to disp lay the me dia contents, and then double-click the autorcd.exe file. The first time that you run the media, it might prompt you to install setup files. Click OK , and follow the i [...]

106 Reinstalling Software www .dell.com | suppo rt.dell.com 1 Click the W indows Vista start button → Help and Support. 2 Ty p e hardware troubleshooter in the search field and pr ess <Enter> to start the search. 3 In the search results for "hardware troubleshooter ," select the option that best describes the problem and follow th[...]

Reinstalling Software 107 2 In the search box type System Restore and press <Enter>. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrator on the computer , click Continue ; otherwise, contact your administr ator to continue the desired action. 3 Click Next . F ollow the remaining prompts on the screen. In the event t[...]

108 Reinstalling Software www .dell.com | suppo rt.dell.com T o reinstall Wi ndows, you need the following items: •D e l l ™ Operating System media •D e l l Drive rs and Utilit ies media NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities media contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer . Use the Dell Drivers and Utilities media to[...]

Reinstalling Software 109 4 Network Interface Card (NI C) Enables and enhances the network controller . 5 Sound Device Enables and enhances the audio controller . 6 Modem Enables and enhances the modem. 7 W ireless Network Car d Enables and enhances the wireless network controller . 8 BlueT ooth ® Module Enables and enhances the Bluetooth controll[...]

110 Reinstalling Software www .dell.com | suppo rt.dell.com[...]

Before Y ou Begin 111 15 Adding and Replacing Parts Before Y ou Begin This section provid es procedures for removing and installing th e components in your computer . Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assu mes that the following conditions exist: • Y ou have performed the steps in "T urning O ff Y our Computer" on page 111 and &quo[...]

112 Before Y ou Begin The computer turns off after the operatin g system shutdown process is comp lete. 2 Ensure that the computer and all 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 about 4 seconds to turn them of[...]

Before Y ou Begin 113 7 Remove the main battery : a Slide the battery-bay latch releas e on the bottom of the computer . b Remove the battery from the battery bay . 8 P ress the power button to ground the system board. CAUTION: T o guard against electrical shock, alway s unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover . 9 O[...]

114 Before Y ou Begin CAUTION: Before working inside your computer , follow the safety instructi ons located in the Product Information Guide . NOTICE: T o prevent data loss, turn off your computer bef ore removing the hard drive (see "T urning Off Y our Computer" on page 111). Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in sta[...]

Before Y ou Begin 115 7 See "Restoring Y our Operating System" on page 106 to install the operating system for your computer . 8 Use the Drivers and Utilities media to install the drivers and utilities for your computer (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 104). Returning a Hard Drive to Dell Return your old hard dr[...]

116 Before Y ou Begin 3 Insert a scribe into the indent to carefully pry up the hinge cover on the r ight side. 4 Ease the hinge cover up, moving from right to left, and remove it. 5 T o replace the hinge cover , insert the left edge of th e cover into the hinge cover slot, and press from left to right until the c over snaps into place. Memory Y ou[...]

Before Y ou Begin 117 The computer has two memory slots, DIMM A an d DIMM B. DIMM A is located on top of the computer under the keyboard, and DIMM B is lo cated on the bottom of the computer under the memory module cover . DIMM A holds the basic memory module as configured from the factor y . If you did not order addit ional memory , DIMM B is empt[...]

118 Before Y ou Begin NOTICE: Insert memory modules at a 45-degree angle to av oid damaging the connector . If the memory module is not installed properly , the computer may not boot pr operly. No error message indicates th is failure. 6 Ground yourself and install the new memory module: a Align the notch in the modu le edge connec tor wi th the ta[...]

Before Y ou Begin 119 • In the Microsoft W indows Vista ® operating system , click the W indows Vista Start button → Help and Support → Computer Information . DIMM B Connector T o install a memory module in the DIMM B connector: 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on page 111. 2 T urn the computer upside-down, loosen t[...]

120 Before Y ou Begin NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the connector labeled “DIMMA” before you install a m odule in the connector labeled “DIMMB.” NOTICE: Insert memory modules at a 45-degree angle to av oid damaging the connector . If the memory module is not installed properly , [...]

Before Y ou Begin 121 • In the Microsoft W indow s XP operating s ystem , right-click the My Computer icon on your desktop. Click P roperties → General . • In the Microsoft Windows V ista operating system , click the W indows Vista Start button → Help and Support → Computer Information . Mini-Card If you order ed a Min i-Card with your co[...]

122 Before Y ou Begin b Release the card by pushing the metal securing brac ket away from the card until the card pops up slightly . 1 antenna cables 1[...]

Before Y ou Begin 123 c Slide the card at a 45-degr ee angle out of its connector . NOTICE: The card connector is keyed to ensure correct insert ion. If you feel resi stance, realign the card. NOTE: Do not insert a Mobile Broadband (WW AN) net work card into the WLAN card connector . NOTE: The Mini-Card may have two or three antenna connectors, dep[...]

124 Before Y ou Begin Keyboard CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this s ection, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTICE: T o 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 [...]

Before Y ou Begin 125 NOTICE: T o avoid scratching the palm rest when replacing the keyboard, hook the tabs along the front edge of the keyboard into the palm rest, and then secure the keyboard in place. 6 T o replace the keyboar d, connect the keyboar d cable to the connector on the system boar d. 7 Place the tabs along the front edge of the k eyb[...]

126 Before Y ou Begin 4 P ull the cable connector from the card connector . NOTICE: Be careful when removing the card to avoid dam aging the card, card cable, or surrounding components. Coin-Cell Battery CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, follow the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide . NOTICE: T o avoid electros[...]

Before Y ou Begin 127 3 Insert a plastic scribe into the guide on the side of the coin-cell battery compartment, and ease the battery out of the compartment. When you replace the battery , insert it at a 30-degree an gle under the clip with th e positive (identified by a plus [+] symbol) side up, an d then push it into place. About the Media Bay CA[...]

128 Before Y ou Begin Removing the Device Security Screw If the device security screw is installed, you must remove the screw to r emove the device from the bay: 1 Save and close any open files, exit any op en programs, and shut down the computer . 2 If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentati on that c[...]

Before Y ou Begin 129 4 P ull the device out of the media bay . 5 P ush the new device into the media bay until it clicks. 6 If you swapped the device with the computer runni ng, the operating system automatically recognizes the device. If necessary , enter your password to unlock your computer .[...]

130 Before Y ou Begin[...]

Dell™ QuickSet 131 16 Dell™ QuickSet NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer . Dell™ QuickSet provides you with easy access to configure or view the following types of settings: • Network connectivity • P ower management •D i s p l a y • System information Dependin g on what you wa nt to do in De ll™ QuickSet, you c[...]

132 Dell™ QuickSet[...]

T raveling With Y our Computer 133 17 T raveling With Y our Computer Identifying Y our Computer • Attach a name tag or business card to the computer . • W rite down your Service T ag and store it in a sa fe place away from the computer or ca rrying case. Use the Service T ag if you need to r eport a loss or theft to law enforcement officials an[...]

134 T raveling With Y our Computer T ravel T ips NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive to prevent loss of data. NOTICE: Do not check the computer as baggage. • Consider disabling wireless activity on your comput er to maximize battery operating time. T o disable wireless activity , press the wireless enable/disable button[...]

18 Getting Help Obtaining Assistance CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer cover , first disconnect the computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets. If you experience a problem with your computer , you can comple te the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem: 1 See "T roubleshooting" on page 79 for [...]

DellConnect DellConnect is a simple online access tool that al lows a Dell service and support associate to access your computer through a broadband conn ection, diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision. F or more information, go to support.dell.com and click DellConnect. Online Services Y ou can learn about Dell products a nd[...]

AutoT ech Service Dell's automated support service—AutoT ech—provi des recorded answers to the questions most frequently ask ed by Dell customer s about their portable a nd desktop computers. When you call AutoT e ch, use your touch-tone teleph one to select the subjects that correspond to your questions. F or the telephone number to call [...]

Returns that are missing any of the pr ecedi ng requir ements will be refused at Dell’s receiving dock and returned to you. Before Y ou Call NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’ s automated-support telephone sy stem direct your call more efficiently . Y ou may also be asked for your Service T ag (locate[...]

Getting Help 139 CAUTION: Before working inside your computer , fo llow the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide . Diagnostics Checklist Name: Date: Address: Phone number : Service T ag (bar code on the b ack or bottom of the computer): Express Service Code: Return Material Authorization Number (i f provided by Dell support technic[...]

140 Getting Help www .dell.com | suppo rt.dell.com[...]

Specifications 141 19 Specifications Processor P rocessor type AMD T urion™ 64 Single Core processors or AMD T urion 64 X2 Dual Core processors or AMD Sempron™ processors Level 1 cache data cache: 64 KB instruction cache: 64 KB Level 2 cache AMD T urion processors: 512 KB or 1024 KB AMD Sempron processors: 128 KB or 256 KB External bus frequenc[...]

142 Specifications Cards supported 3.3- V and 5- V PC Cards 1.5- V ExpressCar ds (with adapter) PC Car d connector size 68 pins Data width (maximum) PCMCIA 16 bits CardBus 32 bits Memory Memory module connector two us er -accessible SODIMM sockets Memory module capacities 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB Memory type 533/667-MHz DDR2 SDR AM (single channel an[...]

Specifications 143 Docking D/P ort advanced port r eplicator D/Dock compatible (PCI connector not supported) Communications Modem: Ty p e v .92 56K MDC Controller softmodem Interface Azalia Network adapter 10/100/1000 Ethernet LAN on system board Wi r e l e s s L A N • Internal P CI-e Mini-Car d WLAN support • 802.11a/b/g, with scalability to 8[...]

144 Specifications TV support NTSC or P AL in S-video and composite modes (through Dell™ D/P ort advanced port replicator only) Audio Audio type High Definition Au d io (HD A) Audio controller SigmaT el ST AC9205 Stereo conversion 24-bit (digital-to-analog) 24-bit (analog-to-digital) Interfaces: Internal HDA (Azalia/A C’97) External microphone [...]

Specifications 145 Pixe l p it c h: WXGA 0.2588 mm(15.4-inch display) P ower consumption ( panel with backlight) (typ ical): WXGA 5.0 W (maximum) Controls Brightness can be controll ed through keyboar d shortcuts and through QuickSet. Keyboard Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 87 (Chin a); 89 (Brazil); 88 (Europe); 91 (Japan) Key t ravel 2.7 mm [...]

146 Specifications Charge time (approximate) : Computer on 2.5 hours Computer off approximately 1 hour for 80 perce nt charge Operating time varies depending on operating conditions and can be significantly reduced under cert ain power-intensive conditions. See "Battery P erformance" on page 29 for more information. Life span (approximate[...]

Specifications 147 T emperatu re range: Operat ing 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) (65 W and 90 W) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) (65 W and 90 W) Phy sical Height 35 mm (1.37 inches) W idth 361 mm (14.2 inches) Depth 262.2 mm (10.3 inches) W eight approximately 6.0 lb (2.7 kg), with a 14.1-inch XGA display , Dell T r avelLite™ module, [...]

148 Specifications Storage –15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft) Airborne contaminant level G2 or lowe r as de fined by ISA-S71.04 -1985 Environmental (continued)[...]

Appendix 149 20 Appendix 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 manufactur er ’s instru ction manual, may cause in terference with radio and television reception. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limi[...]

150 Appendix Macrovision Product Notice This product incorporates copyri ght protecti on technolog y that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyr i gh t protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is inte nded for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by [...]

Glossary 151 Glossary T erms in this Glossary are provided for informat ional purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer . A AC — alternating curren t — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet. ACP I — advanced configur[...]

152 Glossary boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from which the computer at tempts to boot. bootable media — Media 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 bootable media or floppy disk available. Y our Drivers a nd Utilities media is on[...]

Glossary 153 DDR2 SDR AM — double-data-rate 2 SDRAM — A type of DDR SDR AM that uses a 4-bit prefetch a nd other architectural changes to boost memory speed to ove r 400 MHz. device — Hardware such as a disk drive, pr inter , or keyboar d that is installed in or connected to your computer . device driver — See drive r . DIMM — dual in-lin[...]

154 Glossary ESD — electrostatic disch arge — A rapid dischar ge of static electricity . ESD can damage integrated circuits found in computer and communications equipment. expansion card — A circuit boar d that installs in an expansion slot on the system boar d in some computers, expanding the capabilities of the computer . Examples include v[...]

Glossary 155 drive and then turn s off the computer . When you restart the computer , the memory information that was saved to the hard drive is automatically r estored. HTTP — hypertext transfer protocol — A protocol for ex changing files between computers connected to t he Internet. Hz — hertz — A unit of frequency measure ment that equal[...]

156 Glossary M Mb — megabit — A measur ement of memory chip capacity that equals 1024 Kb. Mbps — megabits per s econd — 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[...]

Glossary 157 P parallel connector — An I/O port often used to connect a parallel printer to your computer . Also referr ed to as an LPT port . partition — A physical storage ar ea on a hard drive that is assigned to one or more logical storage area s known as logical drives. Each partition can contain multiple logical drives. PC Card — A remo[...]

158 Glossary RFI — radio frequency interfer ence — Interference that is generated at typical radio frequencie s, in the range of 10 kHz to 100,000 MHz. Radio fr equencies are at the lower end of the electromagnetic fr equency spectrum and are more lik ely to have interference than the hig her frequency radiations, such as infrar ed and light. R[...]

Glossary 159 more than 20 percent below the normal AC-line voltage level. Network connections cannot be protected by surge protectors. Always disconnect the network ca ble from the network connector during electrical storms. SVGA — super - video graphics array — A video standard for video car ds and controllers. T ypical SVGA resolutions are 80[...]

160 Glossary 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 th[...]

Glossary 161 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 th ick, and hold up to 100 MB of data.[...]

162 Glossary[...]