Dell GU051 manual

www .dell.com | support.dell.com Dell™ Inspiron™ 1721 Owner’ s Manual Model PP22X[...]

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 Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 1 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 Power Protection Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Surge Protectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Line Conditioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Uninterruptible Power Supplies . . . . . . . . . . 38 3 Using the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [...]

Contents 5 5 Using a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Battery Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Checking the Battery Charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Dell QuickSet Battery Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Microsoft ® Windows ® Battery Meter . . . . . . . 47 Charge Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[...]

6 Contents Connecting Y our Com puter to a TV or Audio Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 S-Video and Standard Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . . . . . . 64 Composite Video an d Standard Audio . . . . . . . 66 Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . 68 Component Video and Standard[...]

Contents 7 Wireless Local Area Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 What Y ou Need to Establish a WLAN Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Checking Y our Wireless Network Card . . . . . . 85 Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem . . . . . . . . . 86 Connecting to a WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Mobi[...]

8 Contents PC T uneUp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 PC CheckUp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Optical drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 E-Mail, Modem, an d Internet Problems . . . . . . . .[...]

Contents 9 Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 No sound from integrated speakers . . . . . . . . 123 No sound from external speakers . . . . . . . . . 124 No sound from headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 T ouch Pad or Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 V[...]

10 Contents Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Removing the Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Replacing the Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 Removing the Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 Replacing the Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . [...]

Contents 11 13 Dell™ QuickSet Features . . . . . . . . . . . 165 14 T raveling With Y our Computer . . . . . . . 167 Identifying Y our Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167 Packing the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167 T ravel T ips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168 T raveling by Air . . . . . . . . . . . . .[...]

12 Contents 16 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177 17 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185 Using the Sy stem Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . 185 Viewing the Sy stem Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . 186 Sy stem Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186 Commonly Used Options . . . . . . . . . [...]

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

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 Info rmation Guide • How to set up my computer Setup Diagram What Are Y ou Looking For? Find It Here[...]

Finding Information 15 • Service T ag and Express Service Code • Microsoft ® W indows ® P r oduct Key Service T ag and Microsoft Windows Product Key These labels are located on your computer . • Use the Service T ag to identify your computer when you use support.dell.com or contact support. • Enter the Express Service Code to dire ct your[...]

16 Finding Information • Solutions — T rouble shooting 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[...]

Finding Information 17 • Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints — F requently asked questions, hot topics, and general health of your computing environment Dell Support Utility The Dell Support Utility is an automated upgrade and notification system installed on your computer . This support provides real-time health scans of your computing[...]

18 Finding Information • 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 ret ur ns your computer to an earlier operating state [...]

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 video controller configuration: 1 C lick Start , and then click Help and Support . 2[...]

20 About Y our Computer Front V iew 4 5 13 3 6 12 11 9 8 7 14 2 1 10[...]

About Y our Computer 21 CAMERA INDICATOR — Indicates that the camera is turned 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 com[...]

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 p ower management mode. Hard drive activity light – T urns on wh en the computer reads or writes data. NOTICE: T o avoid loss of [...]

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 charging. – Flashing blue: The battery is almost fully charged. – Off: The battery is adequately charged. If the computer is runn ing on a battery , the li ght operates as follows: – Off: The battery is [...]

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 59). 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 93). CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumula te in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low -airflow environment, such as a close[...]

26 About Y our Computer NOTE: The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator light appears on ly when the sy stem is switched off and Wi-Fi is activated in BIOS. Right Side V iew 1 off position Disables wireless devices. 2 on position Enables wireless devices. 3 momentary position Scans for WLAN networks (see "Dell W i-F i Catcher™ Network Locator" [...]

About Y our Computer 27 AUDIO CONNECTORS OPTICAL DRIVE — F or more information about the optical drive see "Using Multimedia" on page 53. 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 a[...]

28 About Y our Computer • MultiMediaCar d (MMC) •M e m o r y S t i c k • Memory Stick PRO • xD-P i cture Car d • Hi Speed-SD • Hi Density-SD IEEE 1394 CONNECTOR — Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras. VIDEO CONNECTOR NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45) NOTICE: The network connector [...]

About Y our Computer 29 Back V iew S- VIDEO TV- OUT CONNECTOR USB CONNECTORS 1 S-video TV-out conne ctor 2 USB connectors (2) 3 AC adapter connector 4 mod em connector (RJ-11) 5 USB connector Connects your computer to a TV . Also connects digital audio-capable devices using the TV/digital audio adapter cable. Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, k[...]

30 About Y our Computer AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR — Attaches an AC adapter to the computer . The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC powe r r equired by the computer . Y ou can connect the AC adapter with yo ur computer turned on or off. CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electr ical outlets worldwide. However , power connectors and power strips va[...]

About Y our Computer 31 Bottom V iew LEFT SPEAKER — T o adjust the volume of the inte grated speaker , press the volume control buttons or the mute button. CONSUMER IR — A port on the front of the compute r that allows certain software applications to be controlled by the Dell T ravel Remote. 1 left speaker 2 consumer IR 3 memory module/coin-ce[...]

32 About Y our Computer MEMORY MODULE / COIN - CELL BATTERY COMPARTMENT — Compartment that contains the DIMM B memory module and the coin-cell battery . F or additional information, see "Adding and Replacing P arts" on page 135. RIGHT SPEAKER — T o adjust the volume of the inte grated speaker , press the volume control buttons or the [...]

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 Ea sy T ransfer Cable, [...]

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 Dr ivers and Utilities" on page 128 [...]

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 ouch Pad 41 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad Numeric Keypad The numeric keypad functions lik e t he numeric keypad on an external key b o ard . • T o enable the keypad, press <Num Lk >. The light indicates that the keypad is active. • T o disable the keypad, press <Num Lk> again. Key Combinations Sy stem Fu[...]

42 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad Power Management 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 activating power management modes. F or more information about Dell QuickSet key combinations, right-click the Q[...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 43 T ouch Pad The touch pad detects the pressur e and movement of your finger to allow you to move the cursor on the display . Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons as you would use a mouse. • T o move the cursor , lightly slide your finger over the touch pad. • T o select an object, lightly tap once on the s[...]

44 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 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 Mouse. 4 In the Mouse P roperties window : •C l i c k t h e Device Select tab to disable the tou[...]

Using a Battery 45 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 [...]

46 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 47 The Battery Meter displays the status, battery health, charge level, and char ge completion time for the battery in your computer . 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[...]

48 Using a Battery original charge capacity r emains. If five lights appear , less than 60 percent of the charge capacity r emains, and you should consider replacing the battery (see "Battery" on page 182 for more information about the battery operating time). Low-Battery Warning NOTICE: T o avoid losing or corrupting data, sa ve your wor[...]

Using a Battery 49 Configuring Power Management Settings Y ou can use Dell QuickSet or W indows P ower Options to configure the power management settings on your computer . • F or information on how to use th e Dell QuickSet P ower Management wizard, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification ar ea, click Help , and then select P ower Mana[...]

50 Using a Battery Charging the Battery NOTE: Charge time is longer wi th the computer turned on. Y ou can leave the battery in the computer for as long as you like. The battery’ s internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging. When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is connected t[...]

Using a Battery 51 T o remove the battery : 1 If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with yo ur docking device for instructions. 2 Ensure that the computer is turned off. 3 T urn the computer over . 4 Slide and click the battery releas e latches to k eep them open. 5 Slide the battery o[...]

52 Using a Battery[...]

Using Multimedia 53 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 you are not using 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 center of the tray[...]

54 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 55 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 wo rk only with specified computers. F or more deta ils, go to the Dell Support website at support.dell.com . T o play media using Dell T ravel Remote: 1 Install the CR2106 coin-cel[...]

56 Using Multimedia Copying CDs and DVDs 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 Cr eator [...]

Using Multimedia 57 3 T o copy the CD or DVD: • If you have one optical drive , insert the source disc into the drive, ensure that the settings ar e correct, and then click the Copy Disc button to continue. The computer read s your source disc and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive. When prompted, insert a blank dis[...]

58 Using Multimedia 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 1–2 MB of the bla[...]

Using Multimedia 59 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[...]

60 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 175). F or more information on using Dell MediaDir ect, use the Help menu in the Dell MediaDirect appl[...]

Using Multimedia 61 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[...]

62 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 63 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). 2 Plug one end of the S-vid[...]

64 Using Multimedia S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter 1 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable 3 S/PDIF digital audio cable 1 2 1 2 3[...]

Using Multimedia 65 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[...]

66 Using Multimedia Composite Video and Standard Audio 1 audio input connector 2 S -video TV-out connector 3 composite video adapter 1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable 3 standard audio cable 2 1 3 1 2 3[...]

Using Multimedia 67 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[...]

68 Using Multimedia Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video cable 1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable 3 standard audio cable 1 2 1 2 3[...]

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 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[...]

70 Using Multimedia Component Video and Standard Audio 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter 1 component video adapter 2 component video adapter 3 standard audio cable 2 1 1 2 3[...]

Using Multimedia 71 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[...]

72 Using Multimedia Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video cable 1 2[...]

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 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[...]

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 one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the S/PDIF audio connector on the co[...]

Using Multimedia 75 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 appear correctly [...]

76 Using Multimedia[...]

Using ExpressCards 77 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[...]

78 Using ExpressCards Remove the blank before installing an Expr essCard. T o remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCar d or Blank" on page 79. 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 79 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[...]

80 Using ExpressCards[...]

Using the Memory Card Reader 81 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) • Secure Digi[...]

82 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[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 83 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[...]

84 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 85 • 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[...]

86 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 87 13 Start your computer and wait until the boot process completes. 14 See the documentation that came with your wireless router to do the following in order to set up the wir eless router: • Establish communication between your computer and your wireless router . • Configure your wireless router to communicate wi[...]

88 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 comp uter for a wir eless netwo[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 89 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[...]

90 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 91 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 [...]

92 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 for wireless networks in your vicinity . T o scan for a wireless network, slide and hold the switch in the momentary position (see "wireless switch" on page 25) for a few [...]

Securing Y our Computer 93 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[...]

94 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 95 • Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer . P rovide the computer Service T ag, the case number , and the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency to which you reported the missing computer . If possible, give the na me of the investigating officer . The Dell customer service re[...]

96 Securing Y our Computer[...]

T roubleshooting 97 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 [...]

98 T roubleshooting NOTE: If the computer is connected to a dockin g device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking de vice for instructions. 1 Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly . 2 T urn on (or restart) your computer . 3 Start the Dell Diagnostics in on[...]

T roubleshooting 99 3 When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately . NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down for extended periods of time. T o avoi d possible keyboard failure, press and release <F12> in even intervals until the boot devic e menu appears. 4 At the boot device menu, use the up - a[...]

100 T roubleshooting 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 the devices in the computer . F or any problem encountered during a te st, a message appears with an error code and a descriptio[...]

T roubleshooting 101 The following tabs provide additional information for tests run from the Custom T est or Symptom T ree option: Dell Support Center The Dell Support Center provides s ervice, support and system-specific information. T o obtain detailed info rmation about Dell Support Center and the available support tools, go to the Consumer Ser[...]

102 T roubleshooting Click on the desktop icon to run the application and to access: • Self -help tools such as, Dell Support, PC CheckUp, and Network Assistant • Dell support contact information such as, E-mail, Chat and Phone Numbers • Resources that are specific to your systems such as, Drivers & Downloads, Upgrades and System Informat[...]

T roubleshooting 103 T o access Dell Support 3: • Click the Dell Support 3 icon in the notification area. NOTE: The icon functions vary when clicking, double-clicking, or right-clicking. or • Click the Start → All P rograms → Dell Support 3 → Dell Support Settings . Ensure that the Show icon on the taskbar option is checked. NOTE: If Dell[...]

104 T roubleshooting Network Assistant Designed specifically for users of De ll systems, the Dell Network Assistant helps simplify the setup, monitoring, troubleshooting, and repair of your network. The Dell Network Assistant provides: • Consolidated setup, alerting, and device status • Simplifies keeping track of network ed devices by providin[...]

T roubleshooting 105 Drive Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . F ill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 174 as you complete these checks. E NSURE THAT M ICROSOFT ® W INDOWS ® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — • Click Start → Computer[...]

106 T roubleshooting T URN OFF S LEEP STATE IN W INDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD — See "Using the Sleep P o wer State" on page 49 for information on Sleep state. C HANGE THE WRITE SPEED TO A SLOWER RATE — See the help files for your CD or DVD cr eation software. The drive tray cannot eject 1 Ensure that the computer is shut down. 2 [...]

T roubleshooting 107 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[...]

108 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 109 CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE — The CD drive does not respond to commands from the computer (see "Drive P roblems" on page 105). D ATA ERROR — The hard drive cannot r ead the data (see "Drive Problems" on page 105). D ECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY — One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly sea[...]

110 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 138), 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 111 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 97). L ICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN M EDIA D [...]

112 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 138). If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting D[...]

T roubleshooting 113 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 175). T IME - OF - DAY NOT SET - PLEASE RUN THE S Y[...]

114 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 115 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 [...]

116 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 117 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[...]

118 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 119 Memory Problems F ill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 174 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[...]

120 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 121 Power Problems F ill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 174 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 .[...]

122 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 123 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[...]

124 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 125 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[...]

126 T roubleshooting C HECK THE BATTERY — If you are using a battery to power your computer , the battery charge may be depleted. Connect t he computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter , and then turn on the computer . T EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such [...]

T roubleshooting 127 S EE "E RROR M ESSAGES "— If an error message appears, see "Error Messages" on page 108. If only part of the display is readable C ONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR — 1 Shut down your computer and conn ect an external monitor to the computer . 2 T urn on the computer and the monit or , and then adjust the monit[...]

128 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 then right-click Computer . 2 Click P roperties → Device Manager . NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrat[...]

T roubleshooting 129 Using the Drivers and Utilities Media If using Device Driver Rollback or Syst em Restore (see "Restoring Y our Operating System" on page 131) does not resolve the problem, r einstall the driver from your Drivers and Utilities media. 1 W ith the W indows desktop displayed, insert your Drivers and Utilities media . If t[...]

130 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 185) before continuing with the driver installation (see "Reinstalli ng[...]

T roubleshooting 131 T o start the Hardware T roubleshooter: 1 Click Start → 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 remaining troubleshoo[...]

132 T roubleshooting Using Windows Vista Sy stem Restore The W indows Vista operating system prov ides System Restor e 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 operati ng state. See th[...]

T roubleshooting 133 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 [...]

134 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 order ed it from Dell. This option appears on Dell comput ers that were originally pr e-installed with W indows Vista™ and does [...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 135 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 135 and [...]

136 Adding and Replacing Parts 3 Ensure that the computer and any attach ed devices ar e turned off. If your computer and attached devices did no t automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, pr ess and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Before W orking Inside Y our Computer Use the[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 137 4 Disconnect your computer and all att ached devices from their electrical outlets. NOTICE: T o help prevent damage to the sy stem board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you service the computer . NOTE: T o avoid damage to the computer , us e only the battery designed for this particular Dell c[...]

138 Adding and Replacing Parts Hard Drive Depending on the configuration you order ed, your computer may have two hard drives: a primary har d drive and an optional secondary hard drive. CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when th e drive is hot, do not touch the metal housing of the hard drive. CAUTION: Before you begin any of [...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 139 NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the compu ter , store it in protective antistatic packaging (see "Protecti ng Against Electrosta tic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide ). 4 Using the pull-tab on the hard drive, pull the har d drive out of the hard drive bay . 1 captive screws (2) 2 hard drive [...]

140 Adding and Replacing Parts Replacing the Hard Drive 1 Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging for stor ing or shipping the hard drive. NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to sli de the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage the connector . NOTICE: If you are installing only one hard driv e, ensu[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 141 Returning a Hard Drive to Dell Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original, or comparable, foam packaging. Otherwise, the hard drive may be damaged in transit. Optical Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . Removi[...]

142 Adding and Replacing Parts 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 proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTICE: T o avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by us[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 143 Removing the Hinge Cover 1 F ollow the procedur es in "Before Y ou Begin" on page 135. 2 Open the display as far as it will open. NOTICE: T o avoid damage to the hinge cover , do not lift the cover on both sides simultaneously . 3 Insert a plastic scribe into the indent to lift the hinge cover on the right s[...]

144 Adding and Replacing Parts Keyboard F or more information about the k eyboard, see "Using the Keyboar d and T ouch P ad" on page 41. 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 electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a w[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 145 Replacing the Keyboard 1 Hook the tabs and the keyboar d co nnector along the front edge of the keyboar d into the palmrest, and place th e notch on the top of the keyboar d on the tab on the base of the computer . 2 Keeping the k eyboard flat against the computer base, slide the tabs on the bottom of the keyboar d un[...]

146 Adding and Replacing Parts 3 Replace the four screws on the top of the k eyboard. Memory CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . Y ou can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See "Specifications " on p[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 147 Y our computer has two user -accessibl e SODIMM sockets, one accessed from beneath the keyboar d (DIMM A), and the other accessed from the bottom of the computer (DIMM B). NOTICE: If your computer has only one memory module, install the memory module in the connector labeled “DIMMA.” NOTICE: If you need to install[...]

148 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 149 3 Replace the keyboar d and hinge 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 computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system conf iguration information. T o confirm the a[...]

150 Adding and Replacing Parts NOTICE: T o prevent damage to the memory m odule connector , do not use tools to spread the memory mo dule securing clips. 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 compute[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 151 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 unpainte d metal surface (such as a connector on the bac k of the computer). 1 Align the notch in the module ed ge connector with the tab in the connector slot.[...]

152 Adding and Replacing Parts NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and rein stall 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 co[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 153 Subscriber Identity Module Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM) identify users uniquely through an International Mobile Subscriber Identity . CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTE: Only Cingular and V odafone need a SIM. Ve[...]

154 Adding and Replacing Parts Wireless Mini Cards CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures 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 begin working inside the computer . If you order ed a[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 155 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 connec tors (2) 2 WLAN card 1 2[...]

156 Adding and Replacing Parts Replacing a WLAN Card NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct in sertion. If you feel resistance, check the connecto rs 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 at a 45-degr ee a[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 157 3 Connect the appropriate antenna cables to the WLAN card you ar e installing: If the WLAN card has two triangles on the label (white and black), connect the white antenna cable to the connector labeled "main" (white triangle), and connect the black ante nna cable to the connector labeled "aux" (bl[...]

158 Adding and Replacing Parts 3 Loosen the captive screws on the cover of the Mini Card compartment and remove the cover . 1 captive screws (2) 2 cover 1 2[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 159 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[...]

160 Adding and Replacing Parts Replacing a WWAN Card NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the sy stem bo ard, and realign the card. NOTICE: T o avoid damage to the WW AN card, never place cable s under the card. 1 Insert the WW AN card connector at a 45-degr ee[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 161 3 Connect the black antenna cable with a gray stripe to the connector labeled "aux" (black triangle) and conn ect 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 tight[...]

162 Adding and Replacing Parts Replacing a WP AN Card NOTICE: T he connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the sy stem bo ard, and realign the card. NOTICE: T o avoid damage to the WP AN card, never place cables under the card. 1 Insert the WP AN card connector at a 45-degr e[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 163 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 proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTICE: T o avoid electr[...]

164 Adding and Replacing Parts Removing the Coin-Cell Battery 1 F ollow the procedur es in "Before Y ou Begin" on page 135. 2 T urn the computer over . 3 Loosen the captive screw on the memory module/coin-cell battery cover (see "Bottom View" on page 31), and r emove the cover . 4 Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the [...]

Dell™ QuickSet Features 165 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,[...]

166 Dell™ QuickSet Features[...]

T raveling With Y our Computer 167 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 [...]

168 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 169 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"[...]

170 Getting Help When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder , double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions. F or instructions on using the Del[...]

Getting Help 171 Y ou can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail addresses: • Dell Support websites support.dell.com support.jp.dell.com (Japan only) support.euro .dell.com (Europe only) • Dell Support e-mail addresses mobile_support@us.dell.com support@us.dell.com la-techsupport@dell.com (Latin Amer ica and Caribbean cou[...]

172 Getting Help Automated Order -Status Service T o check on the status of any Dell prod ucts that you have order ed, you can go to support.dell.com , or you can call the automa ted order -status service. A recor ding prompts you for the informati on needed to locate and report on your order . F or the telephone number to call for your region, see[...]

Getting Help 173 4 Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (power cables, software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if the r eturn is for credit. 5 P ack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing materials. Y ou are r esponsible for paying shipping expenses. Y ou are also r esponsible for insur[...]

174 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, versio[...]

Getting Help 175 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[...]

176 Getting Help[...]

Specifications 177 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 [...]

178 Specifications Cards supported ExpressCard/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) • Secure Digital Input/Output(SDIO) • MultiMed[...]

Specifications 179 Ports and Connectors Audio microphone connector , stereo headphone/speakers connector IEEE 1394 4-pin serial connector Consumer IR sensor compatible with Philips RC6 (r eceive 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 [...]

180 Specifications LCD interface Low V oltage Differential Signaling (L VDS) TV support NTSC or P AL in S-video , composite, and component modes 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 Defini[...]

Specifications 181 Operating angle 0 ° (closed) to 155° Viewing angles: Horizontal ±40° (WXGA+) typical ±65° (WUXGA+) V ertical +15°/–30° (WXGA+) +45°/-55° (WUXGA) Pix el pitch: WXGA+ 0.255 mm WUXGA 0.191 mm Controls brightness can be controlled through keyboar d shortcuts (see "Adjusting Brightness" on page 39) Keyboard Numbe[...]

182 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 183 Output current 5.62 A (maximum at 4-second pulse) 4.62 A (90 W) (continuous) Output power 90 W Rated output voltage 19.5 +/–1.0 VDC Dimensions: Height 34.2 mm (1.34 in) Wi d t h 60.87 mm (2.39 in) Depth 153.45 mm (6.0 in) W eight (with cables) 0.46 kg (1.01 lb) T emperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage [...]

184 Specifications Maximum vibration (using a random vibration spectrum that simulates user environment): Operating 0.66 GRMS Storage 1.3 GRMS Maximum shock (Measured with hard drive in operating status and a 2-ms half -sine pulse for operating. Also measured with har d drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms halfsine pulse for storage): Operating[...]

Appendix 185 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 [...]

186 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 187 • 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[...]

188 Appendix About Y our RAID Configuration RAID Level 0 Configuration A RAID level 0 configuration uses a stora ge technique known as "data striping" to provide a high data access rate. Da ta striping is a method of writing consecutive segments, or stripes, of data sequentially across the physical drives to create a lar ge virtual drive.[...]

Appendix 189 • Use a can of compressed air to r emove dust from between the keys on the keyboar d and to remove any dirt or lint from the display . NOTICE: T o help prevent damage to the computer or display, do not spray cleaning solution directly onto the display . On ly use products specifically designed for cleaning display s, and follow the i[...]

190 Appendix Mouse NOTICE: Disconnect the mouse from the comput er before cle aning the mouse If your screen cursor skips or mo ves abnormally , clean the mouse. Cleaning a Non-Optical Mouse 1 Clean the outside casing of the mous e with a cloth moistened with a mild cleaning solution. 2 T urn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counter[...]

Appendix 191 2 W ith a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line from the ce nter to the outer edge of the disc. F or stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. Y ou can also purchase commerc ial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust,[...]

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

Appendix 193 cause harmful interference with radio or television r eception, which can be determined by turning the equipment o ff and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interfer ence by one or more of the following measures: • Reorient the receiving antenna. • Relocate the system with respect to the r eceiver . • Move the system aw[...]

194 Appendix[...]

Glossary 195 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[...]

196 Glossary BIOS — basic input/output system — A prog ram (or utility) that serves as an interface between the computer hardwar e and the operating system. Unless you understand what effect these settings have on the computer , do not change them. Also referr ed to as system setup . bit — The smallest unit of data interpr eted by your comput[...]

Glossary 197 CD-R — CD recor dable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be r ecorded only once onto a CD-R. Once recor ded, the data cannot be erased or written over . CD-R W — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a CD-R W disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). CD-R W drive — A drive that c[...]

198 Glossary device — Hardwar e such as a disk drive, printer , or keyboard that is installed in or connected to your computer . device driver — See driver . DIMM — dual in-line memory module — A circuit board with memory chips that connects to a memory module on the system board. DIN connector — A round, six-pin connector th at conforms [...]

Glossary 199 D VD+RW drive — drive that can r ead DVDs and most CD media and write to D VD+RW (r ewritable DVDs) discs. DV I — digital video interface — A standard for digital transmission between a computer and a digital video display . E ECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special circuitry for testing t[...]

200 Glossary F Fa h r e n h e i t — A temperature measur ement scale where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling point of water . 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 Com[...]

Glossary 201 H hard drive — A drive that reads and writes data on a hard disk. The terms har d drive and hard di sk are often used interchangeably . 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 t[...]

202 Glossary IrD A — Infrared Data Association — The or ganization that cr eates international standards for infrar ed communications. 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 ca[...]

Glossary 203 M Mb — megabit — A measuremen t of memory chip capacity that equals 1024 Kb. Mbps — megabits per second — One million bits per second. This measurement is typically used for transmission speeds for networks and modems. MB — megabyte — A measurement of data st orage that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB equals 1024 KB. When used[...]

204 Glossary modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: e xternal, PC Card, and internal. Y ou typically use your modem to connect to the Inte rnet and exchange e-mail. module bay — See media bay . MP — megapixel — A measur e of image re solution[...]

Glossary 205 PC Card — A removable I/O car d adhering to the PCMCIA standard. Modems and network adapters are common types of PC Car ds. PCI — peripheral component interconnect — PCI is a local bus that supports 32-and 64-bit data paths, providing a high-speed data path betwee n the processor and devices such as video , drives, and networks. [...]

206 Glossary RAM — random-access memory — The primary temporary storage area for program instructions and data. Any information stored in R AM is lost when you shut down your computer . readme file — A text file included with a softwar e package or hardware product. T ypically , readme files provide installati on information and describe new [...]

Glossary 207 ScanDisk — A Microsoft utility that checks files , folders, and the hard disk’s surface for errors. ScanDisk often runs when yo u restart the computer after it has stopped responding. SCSI — small computer system interface — A high-speed interface used to connect devices to a computer , such as hard driv es, CD drives, printers[...]

208 Glossary surge protectors — P revent voltage spik es, such as those that may occur during an electrical storm, from entering the co mputer through the electrical outlet. Surge protectors do not protect against lightning strikes or against brownouts, which occur when the voltage drops more than 20 perce nt below the normal A C-line voltage lev[...]

Glossary 209 U UAC — user account control— Microsoft Wi ndows® V ista™ security feature that, when enabled, provides an added layer of security between user accounts and access to operating system settings. UMA — unified memory allocation — System memory dynamically allocated to video . UPS — uninterruptible power supply — A backup p[...]

210 Glossary virus — A program that is designed to inconvenience you or to destroy data stored on your computer . A virus program moves fr om one computer to another through an infected disk, software downloaded from th e Internet, or e-mail attachments. When an infected program starts, it s embedded virus also starts. A common type of virus is a[...]

Glossary 211 X XGA — extended graphics array — A video st andar d for video ca rds and controllers that supports resoluti ons up to 1024 x 768. 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[...]

212 Glossary[...]

Index 213 Index Numerics 8-in-1 memory c ard r ead er , 81 A audio device connecting, 6 0 enabling, 7 5 audio . See sound B battery charge gauge, 4 7 charging, 5 0 checking the charge, 4 6 performance, 4 5 power meter , 4 7 removing, 5 0 replacing coin-cell battery , 1 6 3 storing, 5 1 blanks ExpressCar ds, 7 7 memory card, 8 1 Bluetooth wireless t[...]

214 Index connecting audio device, 6 0 Mobile Broadband network, 8 9 TV , 6 0 contacting Dell, 175 copying CDs general information, 5 6 helpful tips, 5 8 how to , 5 6 copying D VDs general information, 5 6 helpful tips, 5 8 how to , 5 6 D Dell contacting, 1 7 5 Dell Diagnostics about, 9 7 starting from the Drivers and Utilities media, 9 8 starting [...]

Index 215 DV D about, 5 6 drive problems, 1 0 5 E End User License Agreement, 14 ergonomics information, 14 error messages, 108 ExpressCar d slot description, 2 5 ExpressCar ds, 77 b l a n k s , 77, 79 installing, 7 8 removing, 7 9 H hard drive d e s c r i p t i o n , 25, 32 p r o b l e m s , 106 replacing, 1 3 8 returning to Dell, 1 4 1 hardwar e [...]

216 Index M media playing, 5 3 media control buttons Dell MediaDir ect button, 5 9 description, 2 3 memory DIMM A, 1 4 8 DIMM B, 1 4 9 installing, 1 4 6 r e m o v i n g , 147 memory car d, 81 b l a n k s , 81-82 installing, 8 1 reader , 2 7 removing, 8 2 types, 8 1 memory car d reader , 81 memory module cover description, 3 2 messages error , 1 0 8[...]

Index 217 printer cable, 3 6 connecting, 3 5 p r o b l e m s , 122 setting up, 3 5 USB, 3 6 problems blue screen, 1 1 7 C D d r i v e , 105 c o m p u t e r c r a s h e s , 116-117 computer does not start up, 1 1 6 computer stops responding, 1 1 6 Dell Diagnostics, 9 7 Dell MediaDirect, 1 1 7 drives, 1 0 5 D VD drive, 1 0 5 error messages, 1 0 8 har[...]

218 Index security cable slot description, 2 5 Service T ag, 15 SIM. See Subscriber Identity Module software p r o b l e m s , 116, 118 software and har dware incompatibilities, 130 sound p r o b l e m s , 123 v o l u m e , 123 speakers description, 3 1 - 3 2 p r o b l e m s , 123 v o l u m e , 123 specifications, 177 spyware, 108, 118 stolen compu[...]

Index 219 U uninterruptible power supply . See UPS UPS, 37 USB connector description, 2 9 V video p r o b l e m s , 125 video controller determining configuration, 1 9 video controller configuration determining what controller is installed, 1 9 volume adjusting, 1 2 4 W warranty information, 14 Wi n d o w s Device Driver Rollback, 1 2 8 W indows Ea[...]

220 Index[...]