Dell RT722 manual

www .dell.com | support.dell.com Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner’ s Manual Model PP22L[...]

Notes, Notices, and Cautions NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer . NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to ha rdware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury , or death. ________________[...]

Contents 3 Contents 1 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 2 About Y our Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Determining Y our Co mputer’ s Configuration . . . . . . 19 Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Left Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Right Side View . . . . . . .[...]

4 Contents Line Conditioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Uninterruptible Power Supplies . . . . . . . . . . 38 4 Using the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Switching the Video Image From Y our Computer Display T o a Projector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[...]

Contents 5 Microsoft ® Windows ® Battery Meter . . . . . . . 49 Charge Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Low-Battery W arning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Conserving Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Configuring Power Management Settings . . . . . 50 Using the Sleep Power State . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Charging the B[...]

6 Contents Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . 75 Enabling the Display Settings for a TV . . . . . . . 78 8 Using ExpressCards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 ExpressCard Blanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Installing an ExpressCard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Removing an ExpressCard or Blank . . . . . . . . . . .[...]

Contents 7 Checking Y our Dell Mobile Broadband Card . . . . 94 Connecting to a Mobi le Broadband Network . . . 94 Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card 95 Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator . . . . . . . . . 96 11 Securing Y our Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Security Cable Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Passwo[...]

8 Contents IEEE 1394 Device Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 External Keyboard problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Unexpected characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 The computer does not start . . . . . . . . . . . . [...]

Contents 9 If only part of the display is readable . . . . . . . 131 Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132 Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities . . . . . . . . . . 132 T roubleshooting Software and Hard ware Pr[...]

10 Contents Replacing the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 Removing the DIMM A Memory Module . . . . . . 150 Replacing the DIMM A Memory Module . . . . . 152 Removing the DIMM B Memory Module . . . . . . 153 Replacing the DIMM B Memory Module . . . . . 154 Subscriber Identity Modu[...]

Contents 11 T raveling by Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172 16 Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173 Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173 T echnical Support and Customer Service . . . . . 174 DellConnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174 Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[...]

12 Contents Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193 Dell T echnical Support Policy (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . 194 Definition of "Dell-Install ed" Software and Peripherals 195 Definition of "Third-Party " Software and Peripherals 195 FCC Notice (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195 FCC Class B . . .[...]

Finding Information 13 Finding Information NOTE: Some features may be o ptional and may not ship with your computer . Some features may not be av ailable in certain countries. NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer . What Are Y ou Looking For? Find It Here • A diagnostic program for my computer • Drivers for my computer • De[...]

14 Finding Information • W arranty information • T erms and Conditions (U.S. only) • Safety instructions • Regulatory information • Ergonomics information • End User License Agreement Dell™ Product Information Guide • How to set up my computer Setup Diagram • Service T ag and Express Service Code • Microsoft ® W indows ® P rod[...]

Finding Information 15 • Solutions — T r oubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, online courses, and frequently ask ed questions • Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers • Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as the memory , hard drive, and operating system • Customer Care — Contact i[...]

16 Finding Information • Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints — F requently asked questions, hot topics, and general health of your computing environment Dell Support Utility The Dell Support Utili ty is an automated upgrade and notification system installed on your computer . This support provides real-time health scans of your computin[...]

Finding Information 17 • How to reinstall my operating system Operating Sy stem Media The operating system is already installed on your computer . T o reinstall your operating system, use one of the following methods: • Microsoft W indows System Restore — Microsoft W indows System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state wi[...]

18 Finding Information[...]

About Y our Computer 19 About Y our Computer Determining Y our Computer’ s Configuration Based on selections that you made when purchasing your computer , your computer has one of several different video controller configurations. T o determine your computer ’s vid eo controller configuration: 1 Click Start , and then click Help and Support . 2[...]

20 About Y our Computer Front V iew 1 camera indicator (optional) 2 camera (optional) 3 display latch 4 display 5 power button 6 keyboard 7 device status lights 8 touch pad 9 consumer IR 10 media control buttons 11 touch pad buttons 12 Dell™ MediaDirect™ button 13 keyboard status lights 14 digital array microphones 4 5 13 3 6 12 8 7 14 2 1 11 9[...]

About Y our Computer 21 CAMERA INDICATOR — Indicates that the camera is on. Based on configuration selections you made when ordering your computer , your computer may not include a camera. CAMERA — Built-in camera for video capture, confer encing, and chat. Based on configuration selections you made when ordering your computer , your computer m[...]

22 About Y our Computer DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS The blue lights located to the right of the keyboar d indicate the following: P ower light – T urns on when you turn on the computer , and blinks when the computer is in a power management mode. Hard drive activity light – T urns on when the computer reads or writes data. NOTICE: T o avoid loss of da[...]

About Y our Computer 23 If the computer is connected to an elec trical outlet, the light operates as follows: – Solid blue: The battery is char ging. – Flashing blue: The battery is almost fully char ged. – Off: The battery is adequately charged. If the computer is runn ing on a battery , the li ght operates as follows: – Off: The battery i[...]

24 About Y our Computer D ELL ™ M EDIA D IRECT ™ BUTTON — Pr ess the Dell MediaDirect button to launch Dell MediaDirect (see "Using Dell MediaDir ect™" on page 61). KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS The blue lights located above the keyboar d indicate the following: DIGITAL ARRAY MICROPHONES — Built-in microphone for conferencing and chat.[...]

About Y our Computer 25 Left Side V iew SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer (see "Security Cable Lock" on page 97). WIRELESS SWITCH — When enabled through De ll QuickSet, this switch can scan for a wireless local ar ea network (WLAN) in your vicinity . Y ou can also use it to[...]

26 About Y our Computer NOTE: The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator li ght appears only when the computer is turned off and the wireless switch is config ured in the sy stem setup program (BIOS) to control Wi-Fi network connections. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your co mputer in a [...]

About Y our Computer 27 Right Side V iew OPTICAL DRIVE — F or more information about the optical drive, see "Using Multimedia" on page 55. EJECT BUTTON — P ress the eject button to open the optical drive. 8- IN -1 MEMORY CARD READER — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos st or ed on [...]

28 About Y our Computer VIDEO CONNECTOR NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45) USB CONNECTORS Back V iew Connects video devices, such as a monitor . Connects the computer to a network. The two lights next to the connector indicate st atus and activity for wired network connections. F or information on using th e network adapter , see the device user ’s guide [...]

About Y our Computer 29 S- VIDEO TV- OUT CONNECTOR USB CONNECTORS AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR — Attaches an AC adapter to the computer . The AC adapter converts A C power to the DC power required by the computer . Y ou can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned on or off. CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrica l outlets worldwide. Howeve[...]

30 About Y our Computer MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11) Bottom V iew Connect the telephone line to the modem connector . F or information on using th e modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer . 2 34 10 7 1 6 8 9 5[...]

About Y our Computer 31 LEFT SPEAKER — T o adjust the volume of the inte grated speaker , press the volume control buttons or the mute button. MEMORY MODULE / COIN - CELL BATTERY COMPARTMENT — Compartment that contains the DIMM B memory module an d the coin-cell battery . F or additional information, see "Adding and Replacing P arts" [...]

32 About Y our Computer[...]

Setting Up Y our Computer 33 Setting Up Y our Computer Connecting to the Internet NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country . T o connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Y our ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: • DSL connections that provide h[...]

34 Setting Up Y our Computer Setting Up Y our Internet Connection T o set up an Internet connection wi th a provided ISP desktop shortcut: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft ® W indows ® desktop. 3 F ollow the instructions on the scr een to complete the setup. NOTE: If you are[...]

Setting Up Y our Computer 35 T ransferring Information to a New Computer Y ou can transfer the following types of data from one computer to another: • E-mail messages • T oolbar settings • W indow sizes • Internet bookmarks Use one of the following methods for transferring data: • W indows Easy T ransfer wizard, an Easy T ransfer Cable, a[...]

36 Setting Up Y our Computer Printer Cable Y our printer connects to your computer with a USB cable. Y our printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately , ensure that it is compatible with your p rinter and computer . If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you p urchased your computer , the cable may ar[...]

Setting Up Y our Computer 37 3 T urn on the printer , and then turn on the computer . If the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel . 4 Click Start , and then click Network . 5 Click Add a printer to start the Add P rinter Wizar d. NOTE: T o install the printer dr iver , see "Reinstalling Drivers and Util ities" on page 132 [...]

38 Setting Up Y our Computer Line Conditioners NOTICE: Line conditioners do not prote ct against powe r interruptions. Line conditioners are designed to maintai n A C voltage at a fairly constant level. 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: T o [...]

Using the Display 39 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 level. • P ress <Fn> and the up-arrow key to in cr ease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). • P ress <Fn[...]

40 Using the Display Y ou can enhance the legibility of text and change the appearance of images on the screen by adjusting display r eso lution. As you increase r esolution, items appear smaller on the screen. In contrast, lower r esolution causes text and images to appear larger and can benefit people with vision impairments. T o display a progra[...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouchpad 41 Using the Keyboard and T ouchpad Numeric Keypad The numeric keypad functions lik e t he numeric keypad on an external keyboar d. Each key on the k eypad ha s multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are mark ed in blue on the right of the keypad k eys. T o type a number or symbol, hold down <Fn> a[...]

42 Using the Keyboa rd and T ouchpad Key Combinations Sy stem Functions Display Functions Battery Power Management <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the T ask Manager window . <Fn><F8> Displays icons r epresenting all currently available display options (display only , external monitor or projector only , both display and proje[...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouchpad 43 Microsoft ® Windows ® Logo Key Functions Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations If Dell QuickSet is installed, you ca n use other shortcut keys for functions such as the Battery Meter or activatin g power management modes. F or more information about Dell QuickSet key combinations, right-click the QuickSet icon in t[...]

44 Using the Keyboa rd and T ouchpad • T o move the cursor , lightly slide 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 the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad. [...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouchpad 45 Customizing the T ouch Pad Y ou can use the Mouse P roperties window to disable the touch pad or adjust the touch pad settings. 1 Click Start , and then click Control Pa n e l . 2 Click Hardware and Sound . 3 Click Key bo a r d . 4 In the Mouse P roperties window : • C lick the Device Select tab to disable the [...]

46 Using the Keyboa rd and T ouchpad[...]

Using a Battery 47 Using a Battery Battery Performance NOTE: For information about the Dell warr anty for your computer , see the Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer . F or optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer wi th the main [...]

48 Using a Battery Y ou can check the battery charge befo r e you insert the battery into the computer . Y ou can also set power manage ment 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 b attery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell.[...]

Using a Battery 49 F or more information about QuickSet , right-click the QuickSet icon, and then click Help . Microsoft ® Windows ® Battery Meter The battery meter indicates the rema ining battery char ge. T o check the battery meter , double-click the icon in the notification ar ea. Charge Gauge By either pressing once or pr essing and holding [...]

50 Using a Battery Low-Battery Warning NOTICE: T o avoid losing or corrupting data, sa ve your work immediately after a low-battery warning, then connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power , Sleep state begi ns automatically. A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent[...]

Using a Battery 51 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 pr evious work session without restarting your computer . NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in Sl[...]

52 Using a Battery The battery is too hot to start charging if the battery light flashes alternately blue and amber . Disconn ect the computer from the electrical outlet and allow the computer and the ba ttery to cool to room temperature, then connect the computer to an electr ical outlet to continue charging the battery . F or more information abo[...]

Using a Battery 53 T o replace the battery , follow the removal procedur e in reverse or der . Storing a Battery Remove the battery when you store your computer for an e xtended period of time. A battery discharges during prol onged storage. After a long storage period, rechar ge the battery fully (s ee "Charging the Battery" on page 51) [...]

54 Using a Battery[...]

Using Multimedia 55 Using Multimedia Playing Media NOTICE: Do not press down on the optical drive tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when yo u are not usinmg the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing media. 1 P ress the eject button on the front of the drive. 2 Place the disc, label side up, in the ce nter of the t[...]

56 Using Multimedia A CD player includes the following basic buttons: A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: F or more information on playing media, click Help on the media player (if available). Play Move backward within the curr ent track Pa u s e Move forward within the curr ent track Stop Go to the previous track Eject Go to the nex[...]

Using Multimedia 57 Playing Media Using Dell T ravel Remote The Dell T ravel Remote is designed to control Dell Media Direct and W indows Vista ® Media Center . It can work only with specified computers. F or more details, r efer to the Dell Support website at support.dell.com . T o play media using Dell T ravel Remote: 1 Install the CR2106 coin-c[...]

58 Using Multimedia Copying CD and DVD Media This section applies only to compu ters that have a D VD+/-RW drive. NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copy right laws when copying media. NOTE: The types of optical drives offered by Dell may vary by country . The following instructions explain how to mak e an exact copy of a CD or DVD using Roxio Creat[...]

Using Multimedia 59 How to Copy a CD or DVD NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyri ght protection and ca nnot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus. 1 Click Start → All P rograms → Rox i o Creator DE → Pr o j e c t s → Copy . 2 Under the Copy tab, click Copy Disc . 3 T o copy the CD or DVD: • If you have one optical drive , insert the source[...]

60 Using Multimedia DVD-Writable Drives Helpful T ips • Use Microsoft ® W indows ® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-R W only after you start Roxio Creator and open a Creator project. • Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD -R W to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-R W drive needs[...]

Using Multimedia 61 Adjusting the V olume NOTE: When the speakers are muted, yo u do not hear the media playing. 1 Right-click the volume icon in the notification area. 2 Click Open V olume Mixer . 3 Click and drag the bar to slide it up or down to increase or decr ease the volume. F or more information on vo lume control options, click Help in the[...]

62 Using Multimedia NOTE: Y ou cannot reinstall Dell MediaDirect if you vo luntarily reformat the hard drive. Y ou need the installation software to re install Dell MediaDirect. Contact Dell for assistance (see "Con tacting Dell" on page 179). F or more information on using Dell MediaDir ect, use the Help menu in the Dell MediaDirect appl[...]

Using Multimedia 63 Y our 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 S-vi[...]

64 Using Multimedia If you want to connect y our computer to a TV or audio device, it is recommended that you connect video an d audio cables to your computer in one of the following combinations: • S-video and standard audio • Composite video and standard audio • Component-out video and standard audio NOTE: See the diagrams at the be ginning[...]

Using Multimedia 65 S-Video and Standard Audio 1 T urn 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 cabl e directly to the S-video TV -out connector on the computer (without the TV/di gital audio adapter cable). [...]

66 Using Multimedia 4 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on your computer . 5 Plug the two RCA connectors on the ot her end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device. 6 T urn on the TV and any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the co[...]

Using Multimedia 67 1 T urn off the computer and the TV and/ or the audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV -out connector on your computer . 3 Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video output connector on the composite video adapter . 4 Plug the other end of the S-video cab le into t[...]

68 Using Multimedia 6 Plug the other end of the S/PDIF dig ital audio cable into the audio input connector on your TV or audio device. 7 T urn on the TV , turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer . 8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recogn[...]

Using Multimedia 69 1 T urn off the computer and the TV and/ or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV -out connector on your computer . 3 Plug one end of the composite v ideo cable into the composite video- output connector on the composite video adapter . 4 Plug the other end of the composit[...]

70 Using Multimedia 5 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on the computer . 6 Plug the two RCA connectors on the ot her end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device. 7 T urn on the TV , turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on t[...]

Using Multimedia 71 1 T urn off the computer and the TV and/ or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV -out connector on the computer . 3 Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the composite video adapter . 4 Plug the other end of the composite vi[...]

72 Using Multimedia 6 Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device. 7 T urn on the TV , turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer . 8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 78 to ensure that the computer recogni[...]

Using Multimedia 73 1 T urn off the computer and the TV and/ or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV -out connector on your computer . 3 Plug all three ends of the compon ent video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter . Make sure that the red, gr ee[...]

74 Using Multimedia 4 Plug all three connectors from the ot her end of the component video cable into the component video-input connector s on the TV . Mak e sure that the red, gr een, and blue colors of the ca ble match the colors of the TV input connectors. 5 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on the com[...]

Using Multimedia 75 Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter 1 2[...]

76 Using Multimedia 1 T urn off the computer and the TV and/ or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV -out connector on the computer . 3 Plug all three ends of the compon ent video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter . Make sure that the red, gr een[...]

Using Multimedia 77 4 Plug all three connectors from the ot her end of the component video cable into the component video-input connector s on the TV . Make sur e that the red, gr een, and blue colors of the ca ble match the colors of the TV input connectors. 5 Plug one end of the S/PDIF digita l audio cable into the S/PDIF audio connector on the c[...]

78 Using Multimedia Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 Double-click the speaker icon in the W indows notification area. 2 Click the Options menu and then click Advanced Controls . 3 Click Advanced . 4 Click S/PDIF Interface . 5 Click Close . 6 Click OK . Enabling the Display Settings for a TV NOTE: T o ensure that the display options ap pear correctly[...]

Using ExpressCards 79 Using ExpressCards ExpressCar ds provide additional memory , wired and wir eless communications, multimedia and security features. F or example, you can add an ExpressCar d to make wir eless wide area network (WW AN) connectivity available on your computer . ExpressCa rds support two form factors: • ExpressCar d/34 (34 mm wi[...]

80 Using ExpressCards Remove the blank before installing an Expr essCard. T o remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCar d or Blank" on page 81. Installing an ExpressCard Y ou can install an ExpressCar d whil e the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card. ExpressCar ds are generally marked with a symbol (such a[...]

Using ExpressCards 81 The computer recognizes the Expr essC ard and automatically loads the appropriate device driver . If the config uration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the media that came with the Expr essCard. Removing an ExpressCard or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, fol[...]

82 Using ExpressCards[...]

Using the Memory Card Reader 83 Using the Memory Card Reader The memory card r eader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and vide os store d on a memory card. NOTE: A memory card is no t a bootable device. The 8-in-1 memory card r eader reads the following memory cards: • Secure Digital (SD) memory car d ?[...]

84 Using the Memory Card Reader CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . T o install a memory card: 1 Hold the card with the top side of the car d facing up. 2 Slide the card into the slot until the car d is completely seated in its connector . If you encount[...]

Using the Memory Card Reader 85 Removing a Memory Card or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTICE: Use the memory card confi guration utility (click the icon in the notification area) to select a card and stop it from functioning before you remo[...]

86 Using the Memory Card Reader[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 87 Setting Up and Using Networks Setting up a computer network provid es connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer , or a network. F or 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 compu ter , browse other net[...]

88 Setting Up and Using Networks Setting Up a Network 1 Click Start , and then click Connect T o . 2 Click Set up a connection or network . 3 Select an option under Choose a connection option . 4 Click Next , and then follow the instructions in the wizard. Wireless Local Area Network A wireless local ar ea network (WLAN) is a series of interconnect[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 89 • A wireless router or access point • A wireless network car d for each comp uter that you want to connect to your WLAN • A network cable with a network (RJ-45) connector Checking Y our Wireless Network Card Depending on what you selected w hen you purchased your computer , the computer has a variety of config[...]

90 Setting Up and Using Networks 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 requir ements for your broadband modem. 2 Ensure that you have wir ed Internet access through your broadband modem before you attempt to set up a wir [...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 91 14 See the documentation that came with your wireless router to do the following in order to set up the wir eless router: • Establish communication between your computer and your wireless router . • Configure your wireless router to communicate with your broadband router . • F ind out your wireless router ’s[...]

92 Setting Up and Using Networks T o connect to the network: 1 Click Start , and then click Network . 2 Click Network and Sharing on the navigation bar at the top of the Network folder . 3 Click Connect to a network under Ta s k s . 4 Select your network from the list and click Connect . Once you have configured your comput er for a wir eless netwo[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 93 Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network) A Mobile Broadband network, also known as a W ireless W ide Area Network (WW AN), is a high-speed digital cellu lar network that provides Internet access over a much wider geographical area than a WLAN, which typically covers only from 100 to 1000 feet . Y our compute[...]

94 Setting Up and Using Networks Checking Y our Dell Mobile Broadband Card Depending on what you selected w hen you purchased your computer , the computer has a variety of configurations. T o determine your computer configuration, see one of the following: • Y our order confirmation • Microsoft W indows Help and Support T o check your Mobile Br[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 95 Use the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility to establish and manage a Mobile Broadband network co nnection to the Internet: 1 Click the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility icon in the W indows notification area to run the utility . 2 Click Connect . NOTE: The Connect button changes to the Disconnect button. 3 F ollow [...]

96 Setting Up and Using Networks Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator The wireless switch on your Dell comp uter uses the Dell W i -F i Catcher Network Locator to scan specifically fo r wireless networks in your vicinity . T o scan for a wireless network, slide and hold the wir eless switch (see "wireless switch" on page 25) in the momen[...]

Securing Y our Computer 97 Securing Y our Computer Security Cable Lock NOTE: Y our computer does not ship wi th a security cable lock. A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. T o use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell computer . F or more information, see the instructions included with the device[...]

98 Securing Y our Computer When using passwords, observ e the following guidelines: • Choose a password that you can r ememb er , but not one that is easy to guess. F or example, do not use the names of family members or pets for passwords. • It is recommended that you do not wr ite down your passwor d. If you do write it down, however , en sur[...]

Securing Y our Computer 99 If Y our Computer Is Lost or Stolen • Call a law enforcement agency to re port the lost or stolen computer . Include the Service T ag in your descri ption 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 pos[...]

100 Securing Y our Computer[...]

T roubleshooting 101 T roubleshooting Dell T echnical Update Service The Dell T echnical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and har dware updates for your computer . The service is free and can be customized for content, format , and how frequently you r eceive notifications. T o enroll for the Dell T echnica l Update[...]

102 T roubleshooting Starting the Dell Diagnostic s 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, c ontact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 179). NOTE: If the computer is connected to a dockin g device (docked), un[...]

T roubleshooting 103 Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media 1 Insert your Drivers and Utilities media. 2 Shut down and restart the computer . When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately . NOTE: If you wait too long and the oper ating sy stem logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft ® Wind[...]

104 T roubleshooting Dell Diagnostics Main Menu After the Dell Diagno stics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want. NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on your computer . After you have selected the Test System option from the main menu, the following menu appears. NOT[...]

T roubleshooting 105 F or any problem encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the prob lem. W rite down the error code and problem description exactly as it appe ars and follow the instructions on the screen. If you cannot r esolve the proble m, contact Dell (s ee "Contacting Dell" on page 179)[...]

106 T roubleshooting Dell Support Center The Dell Support Center provides s ervice, support and system-specific information. F or more information about Dell Support Center and available support tools, click the Ser vices tab at support.dell.com . Computers purchased on June 26, 2007 , and later are pr e-installed with Dell Support Center . F or co[...]

T roubleshooting 107 • View fr equently asked questions • Learn more about Dell Support 3 • T urn Dell Support 3 off F or more information about Dell Support 3, click the question mark ( ? ) at the top of the Dell Support 3 window . T o access Dell Support 3: • Click the Dell Support 3 icon in the notification area of your W indows desktop.[...]

108 T roubleshooting Dell PC CheckUp Dell PC Checkup is a troubleshooting and diagnostic tool that provides customized scanning and testing of yo ur Dell computer . PC Checkup verifies whether your hardwar e is working properl y and provides automated fixes for common configuration concerns. It is recommended that you run PC Checkup on a regular ba[...]

T roubleshooting 109 T o begin a live session with a Dell associate: 1 Click the Dell Support Center icon on your computer ’s desktop. 2 Click Assistance F rom Dell → T echnical Support → DellConnect → Phone and follow the instructions. Drive Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instru[...]

110 T roubleshooting Problems writing to a CD-RW or DVD+/-RW drive C LOSE OTHER PROGRAMS — CD-R W and DVD+/-R W drives must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the str eam is interrupted, an error occurs. T ry closing all programs before you write to the drive. T URN OFF S LEEP STATE IN W INDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD DISC — Se[...]

T roubleshooting 111 E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telep hone jack only . The modem does not operate while it is connected to a digital telephone network. C HECK THE M ICROSO[...]

112 T roubleshooting 5 Click the COM port for your modem. 6 Click P roperties , click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with W indows. If all commands receive r esponses, the modem is operating properly . E NSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE I NTERNET — Ensur e that you have subscribed to a[...]

T roubleshooting 113 CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer (see "Drive P roblems" on page 109). D ATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot r ead the data (see "Drive Problems" on page 109). D ECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly sea[...]

114 T roubleshooting H ARD - DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0— The hard drive does not r espond to commands from the computer . Shut down the computer , remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 143), and boot the computer from a CD. Then, shut down the computer , reinstall the hard drive, and r estart the computer . If the problem[...]

T roubleshooting 115 K EYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE — F or external k eyboards or keypads, check the cable connection. Restart the computer , and avoid touching the keyboar d or keys during the boot routine. R un the Stuck Key test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 101). L ICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN M EDIA D[...]

116 T roubleshooting N OT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES . E XIT SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN — Y ou have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. O PERATING SY STEM NOT FOUND — Reinstall the hard drive (see "Har d Drive" on page 143). If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting D[...]

T roubleshooting 117 T IME - OF - DAY CLOCK STOPPED — The reserve battery that supports the system configuration settings may requir e re charging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery . If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 179). T IME - OF - DAY NOT SET - PLEASE RUN THE S Y[...]

118 T roubleshooting IEEE 1394 Device Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . E NSURE THAT THE IEEE 1394 DEVICE IS RECOGNIZED BY W INDOWS — 1 Click Start → Control P anel → System and Maintenance → Device Manager . NOTE: The User Account Con[...]

T roubleshooting 119 C HECK THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD — 1 Shut down the computer , wait 1 minu te, and then turn it on again. 2 V erify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboar d blink during the boot routine. 3 F rom the W indows desktop, click Start → All P rograms → Accessories → Notepad . 4 T ype some characters on [...]

120 T roubleshooting Lockups and Software Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . The computer does not start C HECK THE AC ADAPTER — Ensure that the A C adapter is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet. The computer stops [...]

T roubleshooting 121 A solid blue screen appears T URN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a r esponse by pressing a key on your k eyboard or moving your mo use, pr ess and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off, then restart your computer . Dell MediaDirect problems C HECK THE D ELL M EDIA D IRECT[...]

122 T roubleshooting Other software problems C HECK 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 har dware requir ements needed to run the software. S[...]

T roubleshooting 123 Memory Problems F ill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 178 as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . I F YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE — • Save and close any open files and ex[...]

124 T roubleshooting R ESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN C HECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to v erify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning. Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [WWAN]) NOTE: The Dell Mobile Broadba[...]

T roubleshooting 125 Power Problems F ill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 178 as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . C HECK THE POWER LIGHT — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power .[...]

126 T roubleshooting C ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and extension cables to verify that the computer turns on. E LIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE — T urn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances. A DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — See "Confi[...]

T roubleshooting 127 Scanner Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures 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 . C HECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for setup and t[...]

128 T roubleshooting No sound from external speakers E NSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON — See the setup diagram supplied with the speak ers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion. A DJUST THE W INDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the[...]

T roubleshooting 129 C HECK 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 e xtension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse directly to the computer . T O VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MOUSE , CHECK THE TOUCH PAD — 1 Shut down th[...]

130 T roubleshooting T EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. C HECK THE AC ADAPTER — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensur e that the light is on. C ONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Bypass power pr[...]

T roubleshooting 131 If only part of the display is readable C ONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR — 1 Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer . 2 T urn on the computer and the monit or , and then adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls. If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may[...]

132 T roubleshooting Identifying Drivers If you experience a problem with any devi ce, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary , update the driver . 1 Click Start , and right-click Computer . 2 Click P roperties → Device Manager . NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrator on[...]

T roubleshooting 133 Using the Drivers and Utilities Media If using Device Driver Rollback or Syst em Restore (see "Restoring Y our Microsoft® W indows Vista® Operating System" on page 135) does not resolve the problem, r einst all the driver from your Drivers and Utilities media. 1 W ith the W indows desktop displayed, insert your Driv[...]

134 T roubleshooting 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 sy stem setup program (see "Using the Sy stem Setup Program" on page 189) before continuing with the driver installation (see "Reinstalli ng[...]

T roubleshooting 135 T o start the Hardware T roubleshooter: 1 Click Start and click Help and Support . 2 In the F ind an answer section, click T roubleshooting . OR Ty p e hardware troubleshooter in the search field, then press <Enter>. 3 In the search results, select the opti on that best describes the problem and follow the troubleshooting[...]

136 T roubleshooting Using Windows Vista Sy stem Restore The W indows operating system provid es System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier oper ating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the har dware, softwa r e, or other system se ttings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the W indo[...]

T roubleshooting 137 NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close all open files and exit any open pr ograms. Do not alter , open, or delete any files or programs until the sy stem restoration is complete. 1 Click Start → Control P anel → System and Maintenance → Back Up and Restore Center . 2 In the T[...]

138 T roubleshooting Restoring the Computer to the Default Factory Configuration The Dell F actory Image Restore option allows you to r estore your hard drive back to its original factory configuration as when you first purchased it from Dell. This option appears on Dell comput ers that were originally pr e-installed with W indows Vista ® operatin[...]

T roubleshooting 139 Using the Operating Sy stem Media Before Y ou Begin If you are considering r einstalling the W indows operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver , first try using W indows Device Driver Rollback (see "Using W indows Device Driver Rollback" on page 132). If Device Driver Rollback does not resol[...]

140 T roubleshooting 4 Restart the computer . When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately . NOTE: If you wait too long and the operati ng sy stem logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Wind ows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again. NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for o ne time only . On[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 141 Adding and Replacing Parts Before Y ou Begin This chapter provides procedures for r emoving and installing the components in your computer . Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exis t: • Y ou have performed the steps in "T urning Off Y our Computer" on page 141 and [...]

142 Adding and Replacing Parts Before W orking Inside Y our 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 proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . CAUTION: Handle[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 143 5 T urn the computer over . 6 Slide and click the battery release latches. 7 Slide the battery out of the battery bay . 8 T urn the computer top-side up, open the display , and press the power button to ground the system board. 9 Remove any installed cards from the Expr essCard slot (see "Removing an ExpressCar d[...]

144 Adding and Replacing Parts NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than Dell. NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive fr om a source other th an Dell, you need to install an operating sy stem, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive (see "Restoring Y our Microsoft® Windows Vi[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 145 Replacing the Hard Drive 1 Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive. NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage the connector . 2 Slide the hard drive into the bay until it is fully seat[...]

146 Adding and Replacing Parts Optical Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . Removing the Optical Drive 1 F ollow the procedur es in "Before Y ou Begin" on page 141. 2 T urn the computer over . 3 Remove the locking screw from the optical dr[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 147 Replacing the Optical Drive 1 Slide the optical drive into the bay . 2 Replace and tighten the locking screw . Hinge Cover CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTICE: T o avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by us[...]

148 Adding and Replacing Parts Replacing the Hinge Cover 1 Insert the left edge of the hinge cover . 2 P ress from left to right until the cover snaps into place. Keyboard F or more information about the k eyboard, see "Using the Ke yboard and T ouchpad" on page 41. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow [...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 149 Removing the Keyboard 1 F ollow the procedur es in "Before Y ou Begin" on page 141. 2 Remove the hinge cover (see "Hinge Cover" on page 147). 3 Remove the two screws at the top of the k eyboard. NOTICE: The key caps on the keyboard are fr agile, easily dislodged, and time- consuming to replace. Be [...]

150 Adding and Replacing Parts Replacing the Keyboard 1 Slide the keyboar d cable into the keyboard connector on the DIMM A memory module cover . 2 Rotate the keyboar d connector latch to secure the cable. 3 Hook the tabs along the front edge of the keyboar d into the palmrest. 4 P ress on the right edge near the top to snap the keyboar d into plac[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 151 3 Remove the keyboar d (see "Keyboar d" on page 148). NOTE: It is not necessary to d isconnect the keyboard c able from the memory module cover . 4 Lift the memory module cover but do not remove it. NOTICE: T o prevent damage to th e memory module connec tor , do not use tools to spread the memory mo dule se[...]

152 Adding and Replacing Parts Replacing the DIMM A Memory Module NOTICE: T o avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by peri odically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the ba ck of the computer). 1 Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot. 2[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 153 Removing the DIMM B Memory Module The DIMM B memory module is locate d under the memory module cover on the bottom of the computer . 1 F ollow the procedur es in "Before Y ou Begin" on page 141. 2 T urn the computer upside-down, loos en the captive screw on the memory module cover (see "Bottom View"[...]

154 Adding and Replacing Parts Replacing the DIMM B Memory Module NOTICE: T o avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by peri odically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the ba ck of the computer). 1 Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot. 2[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 155 NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer . 3 Replace the memory module cover . 4 Insert the battery into the battery bay , or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet. 5 T urn on the computer . As the com[...]

156 Adding and Replacing Parts Subscriber Identity Module Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM) id entify users uniquely through an International Mobile Subscriber Identity . CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTE: Only Cingular and V odafone need a SIM. V[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 157 Wireless Mini Cards CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTICE: T o help prevent damage to the sy stem board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you b egin working inside the computer . If you order ed [...]

158 Adding and Replacing Parts 4 Disconnect the antenna cables from the WLAN card. 5 Release the WLAN card by pushing the metal securing tabs towar d the back of the computer until the card pops up slightly . 6 Lift the WLAN card out of its system board connector . 1 antenna cable connectors (2) 2 WLAN card 1 2[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 159 Replacing a WLAN Card NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertio n. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the sy stem board, and realign the card. NOTICE: T o avoid damage to the WLAN card, never place cables under the card. 1 Insert the WLAN card connector into the sy stem b[...]

160 Adding and Replacing Parts 3 Connect the appropriate antenna cables to the WLAN card you ar e installing: NOTE: The gray antenna cable may not be available in all computers. The presence of the gray antenna cable in your Mini Card compartment depends upon the type of display . If the WLAN card has two triangle s on the label (white and black), [...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 161 1 captive screws (2) 2 cover 1 2[...]

162 Adding and Replacing Parts 4 Disconnect the two antenna cables from the WW AN card. 5 Release the WW AN card by pushing the metal securing tabs towar d the back of the computer until the card pops up slightly . 6 Lift the WW AN card out of its system board connector . 1 antenna cable connectors (2) 2 WWAN card 1 2[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 163 Replacing a WWAN Card NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertio n. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the sy stem board, and realign the card. NOTICE: T o avoid damage to the WW AN card, never place cables under the card. 1 Insert the WW AN card connector into the system [...]

164 Adding and Replacing Parts 3 Connect the black antenna cable wi th a gray stripe to the connector labeled "aux" (black triangle) and conne ct the white antenna cable with a gray stripe to the connector labeled "main" (white triangle). 4 Secure unused antenna cables in the protective mylar sleeve. 5 Replace the cover and tigh[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 165 Replacing a WP AN Card NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertio n. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the sy stem board, and realign the card. NOTICE: T o avoid damage to the WP AN card , never place cabl es under the card. 1 Insert the WP AN card connector into the syst[...]

166 Adding and Replacing Parts Replacing the Card 1 Replace the card at an angle to slide it under the securing tabs in the car d compartment. 2 Connect the cable to the card. Coin-Cell Battery CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTICE: T o avoid electr[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 167 Removing the Coin-Cell Battery 1 F ollow the procedur es in "Before Y ou Begin" on page 141. 2 T urn the computer over . 3 Loosen the captive screw on the me mory module/coin-cell battery cover (see "Bottom View" on page 30), and r emove the cover . 4 Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the[...]

168 Adding and Replacing Parts[...]

Dell™ QuickSet Features 169 Dell™ QuickSet Features 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 Depending on what you want to do in Dell QuickSet,[...]

170 Dell™ QuickSet Features[...]

T raveling With Y our Computer 171 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 s tor e it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case. Use the Service T a g if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcemen t officials and [...]

172 T raveling With Y our Computer • P rotect the computer , the batteries, a nd the hard drive from hazards such as extr eme temperatures and overe xpo sure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids. • P ack the computer so that it does no t slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead storage compartment. T ravel T ips NOTICE: Do not mov[...]

Getting Help 173 Getting Help Obtaining Assistance CAUTION: If you need to remove the comp uter cover , first disconnect the computer power and modem c ables from all electrical outlets. If you experience a problem with yo ur computer , you can complete the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem: 1 See "T roubleshooting"[...]

174 Getting Help T echnical Support and Customer Service Dell's support service is available to answer your questions about Dell™ hardwar e. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers. T o contact Dell's support service, see "Before Y ou Call" on page 177, and then see the contact infor[...]

Getting Help 175 • Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addr esses apmarketing@dell.com (Asian/P acific countries only) sales_canada@dell.com (Canada only) • Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP) ftp.dell.com Log in as user: anonymous , and use your e-mail address as your passwor d. AutoT ech Service Dell's automated support service—AutoT ec[...]

176 Getting Help Returning Items for W arranty Repair or Credit P repare all items being r eturned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: 1 Call Dell to obtain a Return Materi al Authorization Number , and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box. F or the telephone number to call for your r egion, see "Contacting Dell&qu[...]

Getting Help 177 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 y our call more efficiently. Y ou may also be asked for your Service T ag (located on the back or bottom of your computer). Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnost[...]

178 Getting Help Diagnostics Checklist Name: Date: Address: Phone number: Service T ag (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? Y es No Network, version[...]

Getting Help 179 Contacting Dell NOTE: If you do not have an active Inter net connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog. Dell provides several online and telepho ne-based support and service options. A vailability varies by country and prod uct, and some services may not be av[...]

180 Getting Help[...]

Specifications 181 Specifications NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. Fo r more information regarding the configuration of yo ur computer , click Start , click Help and Support , and then select the option to view information about your computer . Processor P rocessor type AMD ® Tu r i o n ™ 64 X2 Dual-Core Mobile T echnology L1 cache 32 KB per [...]

182 Specifications Cards supported ExpressCar d /34 (34 mm) ExpressCar d/54 (54 mm) 1.5 V and 3.3 V ExpressCar d connector size 26 pins 8-in-1 Memory Card Reader 8-in-1 memory card controller Ricoh R5C833 8-in-1 memory card connector 8-in-1 combo card connector Cards supported • Secure Digital (SD) memory card • Secure Digital Input/Output (SDI[...]

Specifications 183 Consumer IR sensor compatible with Philips R C6 (receive only) Mini Card three T ype IIIA Mini-Card slots Modem RJ-11 port Network adapter RJ-45 port S-video TV -out 7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-video to composite video adapter cable) USB four 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connector Video 15-hole connector Communications Modem:[...]

184 Specifications Audio Audio type two-channel high-definition audio codec Audio controller Sigmatel ST AC9205 Codec Stereo conversion 24-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-to- analog) Interfaces: Internal Intel High Definition Audio External microphone-in connector , stereo headphones/speakers connector Speaker two 4-ohm speakers Internal speaker[...]

Specifications 185 Horizontal ±40° (WXGA) ±40° (WXGA with T rueLife ) ±55° (WXGA+ with T rueLife ) ±60° (WSXGA+ with T rueLife ) V ertical +15°/–30° (WXGA) +15°/–30° (WXGA with T rueLife) ±45° (WXGA+ with T rueLife ) +40°/–50° (WSXGA+ with T rueLife ) Pix el pitch: WXGA 0.258 mm WXGA with T rueLife 0.258 mm WXGA+ with T rueLif[...]

186 Specifications Battery T ype 9-cell "smart" lithium ion 6-cell "smart" lithium ion Dimensions: Depth 67.6 mm (2.66 in) (9 cell) 47.5 mm (1.87 in) (6 cell) Height 20.4 mm (0.8 in) Wi d t h 209.9 mm (8.26 in) W eight 0.48 kg (1.06 lb) (9 cell) 0.33 kg (0.7 lb) (6 cell) V oltage 11.1 VDC Charge time (approximate) : Computer off[...]

Specifications 187 AC Adapter Input voltage 90–264 V AC Input current (maximum) 1.5 A Input frequency 47–63 Hz Output current (65 W) 4.34 A (maximum at 4-second pulse) 3.34 A (65 W) (continuous) Output current (90 W) 5.62 A (maximum at 4-second pulse) 4.62 A (90 W) (continuous) Output power 65 W , 90 W Rated output voltage 19.5 +/– 1.0 VDC Di[...]

188 Specifications Phy sical Height 42 mm (1.65 in) W idth 358.7 mm (14.12 in) Depth 269 mm (10.59 in) W eight (with 6-cell battery): Configurable to less than 3.0 kg (6.61 lb) Environmental 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% (nonc[...]

Appendix 189 Appendix Using the Sy stem Setup Program NOTE: Y our operating sy stem may automatica lly configure most of the options available in sy stem setup, thus overriding options that you set through sy stem setup. An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through sy stem setup. For more information on [...]

190 Appendix Viewing the Sy stem Setup Screen 1 T urn on (or restart) your computer . 2 When the DELL logo appears, press <F2> immediately . If you wait too long and the Microsof t W indows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the W indows desk top, then shut down your computer and try again. Sy stem Setup Screen NOTE: For information[...]

Appendix 191 • USB Storage Device • CD/D V D/CD-R W drive • Modular bay HDD NOTE: Only devices that are preceded by a number are bootable. During the boot routine, t he 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 st arts[...]

192 Appendix Cleaning Y our Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide . Computer , Keyboard, and Display CAUTION: Before you clean your computer , dis connect the computer from the electrical outlet and remove any installed batteries. Clea n you[...]

Appendix 193 3 Remove any installed batteries (see "Battery P erformance" on page 47). 4 Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with wa ter , and wipe it gently across the surface of the touch pad. Do not al low water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest. Mouse NOTICE: Disconnect the mouse fr om the computer[...]

194 Appendix 1 Hold the disc by its outer edge. Y ou can also touch the inside edge of the center hole. NOTICE: T o help prevent damage to the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc. 2 W ith 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[...]

Appendix 195 Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Dell-installed software includes t he operating system and some of the software programs that ar e inst alled on the computer during the manufacturing process (Microsoft Office, Norton Antivirus, etc). Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion car ds, or [...]

196 Appendix cause harmful interference with radio or television r eception, which can be determined by turning the equipment of f and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interfer ence by one or more of the following measur es: • Reorient the receiving antenna. • Relocate the system with respect to the r eceiver . • Move the system a[...]

Glossary 197 Glossary T erms in this Glossary are provided fo r informational purposes only and may or may not describe features inclu ded 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. ACP I — advanced configur[...]

198 Glossary bit — The smallest unit of data interpr eted by your computer . Bluetooth ® wireless technology — A wireless technology standard for short-range (9 m [29 feet]) networking devices that allo ws for enabled devices to automatically recognize each other . boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from which the computer at[...]

Glossary 199 CD-R W drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-R W (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recor dable CDs) discs. Y ou can wr ite to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once. CD-R W/D VD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can r e ad CDs and DVDs and write to CD-R W (rewritable C[...]

200 Glossary 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 th at conforms to DIN (Deutsche Industrie-Norm) standards; it is typically used to connect PS/2 k eyboard or mouse cable connectors. disk striping — A technique f[...]

Glossary 201 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 para llel connector design that provides improved bidirectional data transmission. Similar to EPP , ECP uses direct memory access to t[...]

202 Glossary FBD — fully-buffered DIMM — A DIMM with DDR2 DR AM chips and an Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) that speeds communication between the DDR2 SDR AM chips and the system. FCC — F ederal Communications Commission — A U.S. agency responsible for enforcing communications-related r egula tions that state how much radiation computers and [...]

Glossary 203 heat sink — A metal plate on some proce ssors that helps dissipate heat. hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves everything in memory to a reserved space on the har d drive and then turns off the computer . When you restart the computer , the memory information th at was saved to the hard drive is automatically restor e[...]

204 Glossary IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic path way assigned to a specific device so that the device can communica te 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 comp[...]

Glossary 205 MB — megabyte — A measurement of data st orage that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB equals 1024 KB. When used to refer to har d drive storage, the term is often rounded to 1,000,000 bytes. MB/sec — megabytes per second — One millio n bytes per second. This measurement is typically used for data transfer ratings. media bay — A ba[...]

206 Glossary MP — megapixel — A measur e of image re solution used for digital cameras. ms — millisecond — A measure of time th at equals one thousandth of a second. Access times of storage device s are often measur ed in ms. N network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its sys[...]

Glossary 207 PCI Express — A modification to the PCI interface that boosts the data transfer rate between the processor and the d evices attached to it. PCI Express can transfer data at speeds from 250 MB/sec to 4 GB/sec. If th e PCI Express chip set and the device ar e capable of different speeds, they will operate at the slower speed. PCMCIA ?[...]

208 Glossary 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 D VD. • It is located on a network in a directory and the system admini strator has assigned rights only to specific individuals. refresh rate — The frequenc[...]

Glossary 209 SDRAM — synchronous dynamic random-access memory — A type of DR AM that is synchronized with the optimal clock speed of the processor . serial connector — An I/O port often used to co nnect devices such as a handheld digital device or digital camera to your computer . Service T ag — A bar code label on your compute r that ident[...]

210 Glossary The number of colors and resolution that a program displays depends on the capabilities of the monitor , the video cont roller 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 [...]

Glossary 211 UPS — uninterruptible power supply — A backup power source used when the electrical power fails or drops to an un acceptable 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 suppr ession and may also provide voltage regulation. Small U[...]

212 Glossary 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 r eads the boot sectors of the floppy disk expecting to find the operating system. If the computer is infected, the boo[...]

Glossary 213 Z ZIF — zero insertion force — A type of so cket or connector that allows a computer chip to be installed or removed with no st r ess applied to either the chip or its socket. Zip — A popular data compression format. F i les that have been compressed with the Zip format are called Zip files and us ually have a filename extension [...]

214 Glossary[...]

Index 215 Index Numerics 8-in-1 memory c ard r eader , 83 A audio device connecting, 6 2 enabling, 7 8 audio . See sound B battery charge gauge, 4 9 charging, 5 1 checking the charge, 4 8 performance, 4 7 power meter , 4 9 removing, 5 2 replacing coin-cell battery , 1 6 6 storing, 5 3 blank cards ExpressCar ds, 7 9 memory card, 8 3 r e m o v i n g [...]

216 Index copying CDs general information, 5 8 helpful tips, 6 0 how to , 5 9 copying D VDs general information, 5 8 helpful tips, 6 0 how to , 5 9 D Dell Diagnostics a b o u t , 101 starting from the Drivers and Utilities media, 1 0 3 starting from your hard drive, 1 0 2 Dell MediaDirect about, 2 4 p r o b l e m s , 121 Dell support site, 15 DellC[...]

Index 217 E End User License Agreement, 14 ergonomics information, 14 error messages, 112 ExpressCar d slot description, 2 6 ExpressCar ds, 79 b l a n k s , 79, 81 installing, 8 0 removing, 8 1 F fan description, 3 1 H hard drive description, 3 1 p r o b l e m s , 110 replacing, 1 4 3 returning to Dell, 1 4 5 hardwar e Dell Diagnostics, 1 0 1 Hardw[...]

218 Index M media playing, 5 5 media control buttons Dell MediaDir ect button, 6 1 description, 2 3 media memory car ds, 83 installing, 8 3 reader , 2 7 types, 8 3 memory DIMM A, 1 5 2 DIMM B, 1 5 3 installing, 1 5 0 r e m o v i n g , 151, 153 memory car d blanks, 8 3 memory car d reader , 83 memory car ds blanks, 8 5 removing, 8 5 memory module co[...]

Index 219 power light conditions, 1 2 5 power management adjusting settings, 1 6 9 QuickSet, 1 6 9 printer cable, 3 6 connecting, 3 5 p r o b l e m s , 126 setting up, 3 5 USB, 3 6 problems blue screen, 1 2 1 C D d r i v e , 109 CD-R W drive, 1 1 0 c o m p u t e r c r a s h e s , 120-121 computer does not start up, 1 2 0 computer stops responding, [...]

220 Index safety instructions, 14 scanner p r o b l e m s , 127 screen. See display security cable slot description, 2 5 Service T ag, 14 SIM. See Subscriber Identity Module software p r o b l e m s , 120, 122 software and har dware incompatibilities, 134 sound p r o b l e m s , 127 v o l u m e , 127 speakers description, 3 1 p r o b l e m s , 127 [...]

Index 221 connecting, 6 2 U uninterruptible power supply . See UPS UPS, 37 USB connector description, 2 9 V video p r o b l e m s , 129 video controller determining configuration, 1 9 video controller configuration determining what controller is installed, 1 9 volume adjusting, 1 2 8 W warranty information, 14 W indows Easy T ransfer wizard, 35 W i[...]

222 Index[...]