Dell Vostro 1000 manual

www .dell.com | support.dell.com Dell™ V ostro™ 1000 Owner’ s Manual Model PP23LB book.book Page 1 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

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. Abbreviations an[...]

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Right Side View . . . . . .[...]

4 Contents Power Protection Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Surge Protectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Line Conditioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Uninterruptible Power Supplies . . . . . . . . . . 39 4 Using the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [...]

Contents 5 Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Speaker Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Microsoft ® Windows ® Logo Key Functions . . . . 49 Adjusting Keyboard Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 T ouch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Customizing the T ouch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 6 Usi[...]

6 Contents Copying CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 How to Copy a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Using Blank CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Helpful T ips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Adjusting the V olume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Adjusting the Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [...]

Contents 7 Checking Y our Wireless Network Card . . . . . . . 77 Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem . . . . . . . . . . 78 Connecting to a WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Enabling/Disabling the Wireless Network Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Mobile Broadband/Wireless Wide Area Networ[...]

8 Contents Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Wireless Mini-Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . [...]

Contents 9 Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 External Keyboard problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 Unexpected characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130 Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 130 The computer does not start . . . . . . . . . . . . 130 The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . 131 A [...]

10 Contents Video and Display Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 If the display is blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 If the display is difficult to read . . . . . . . . . . 142 If only part of the display is readable . . . . . . . 143 Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . . . . . .[...]

Contents 11 T ravel Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162 T raveling by Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163 15 Contacting Dell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 16 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167 17 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 Using the Sy stem Setup Pr[...]

12 Contents book.book Page 12 Friday , October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Finding Information 13 Finding Information NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and ma y not ship with your computer . Some features or media may n ot 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 [...]

14 Finding Information • W arranty information • T erms and Conditions (U.S. only) • Safety instructions • Regulatory information • Er gonomics information • End User License Agr eement Dell™ Product Information Guide • How to set up my computer Setup Diagram NOTE: See the setup diagram that came with your computer . What Are Y ou L[...]

Finding Information 15 • Service T ag and Express Service Code • Microsoft W indows License Label Service T ag and Microsoft ® Windows ® License NOTE: Y our computer’ s Service T ag and Microsoft ® Windows ® License labels are located on your computer . Y our computer’s Service T ag contains both a Service T ag number and an Express Ser[...]

16 Finding Information • Solutions — T roubleshooting 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 memory , the hard drive, and the operating system • Customer Car e — Conta[...]

Finding Information 17 • Notebook System Softwar e (NSS)— If you reinstall the operating system for your computer , you should also reinstall the NSS utility . NSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for processors, optical drives, USB devices, and so on. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer .[...]

18 Finding Information • How to r einstall 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 w[...]

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 Access the Microsoft ® W indows ® Help and Suppo[...]

20 About Y our Computer Front V iew 1 display latch release 2 display latches (2) 3 display 4 power button 5 device s tatus lights 6 touch pad 7 speakers (2) 8 touch pad buttons 9 keyboard 10 keyboard and wireless status lights 1 9 3 6 8 4 7 5 10 2 book.book Page 20 Friday , October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

About Y our Computer 21 DISPLAY LATCH RELEASE — P ress to release the display latches and open the display . DISPLAY LATCHES — Keep the display closed. DISPLAY — F or more information about your dis play , see "Using the Display" on page 41. POWER BUTTON — P ress the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power[...]

22 About Y our Computer If the computer is connected to an elec trical outlet, the light operates as follows: • Solid green: The battery is charging. • Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged. If the computer is running on a batt ery , the light operates as follows: • Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turn[...]

About Y our Computer 23 KEYBOARD AND WIRELESS STATUS LIGHTS The green lights located above the k eyboard indicate the following: T urns on when the numeric keypad is enabled. T urns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled. T urns on when the scroll lock function is enabled. T urns on when wireless networking is enabled. T o enable or disab[...]

24 About Y our Computer Left Side V iew CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your co mputer in a low-airflow envi ronment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is runn ing. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. AIR VENT — The computer uses fans to crea te a[...]

About Y our Computer 25 OPTICAL DRIVE BAY — Y ou can install devices such as a DVD drive or other optical drive in the optical drive bay . F or more in formation, see "Optical Drive" on page 92. OPTICAL - DRIVE - TRAY EJECT BUTTON — P ress this button to eject a CD or DVD from the optical drive. Right Side V iew 1 hard drive 2 Express[...]

26 About Y our Computer HARD DRIVE — Stores softwar e and data. F or more information, see "Har d Drive" on page 92 and "Hard drive problems" on page 120. E XPRESS C ARD SLOT — Supports one ExpressCar d. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. Y ou can add an Expr essCard to make WW AN connectivity ava[...]

About Y our Computer 27 Back V iew AC ADAPTER CONNECTOR — Attaches an AC adapter to the computer . The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC p ower r equired by the computer . Y ou can connect the AC adapter with your co mputer turned either on or off. CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrica l outlets worldwide. However , power connectors a[...]

28 About Y our Computer NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45) MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11) NOTICE: The network connector is slightly la rger than the modem connector . T o help prevent damage to the computer , do not plug a telephone line into the network connector . USB CONNECTORS VIDEO CONNECTOR Connects the computer to a network. The green and yellow lights next[...]

About Y our Computer 29 Bottom V iew BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE — P r ovides information on the battery char ge status. See "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 54. DEVICE SECURITY SCREW — Secures the optical drive in the optical drive bay . F or more information, see "Optical Drive" on page 92. BATTERY - BAY LATCH RELEASE — Re[...]

30 About Y our Computer BATTERY — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. F or more information, see "Using a Battery" on page 53. HARD DRIVE — Stores softwar e and data. F or more information, see "Har d Drive" on page 92 and "Hard drive problems&qu[...]

Setting Up Y our Computer 31 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 o ur ISP will offer one or mor e of the following Internet connection options: • Dial-up connections that pro[...]

32 Setting Up Y our Computer Windows XP 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Click Start → Internet Explorer . The New Connection Wizard appears. 3 Click Connect to the Internet . 4 In the next window , click the appropriate option: • If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose from a list of Interne[...]

Setting Up Y our Computer 33 NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose or contact your ISP . F ollow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. T ransferring Information to a New Computer Y ou can use your operating system "wizards" to he[...]

34 Setting Up Y our Computer F or transferring information to a new computer , you must run the F iles and Settings T ransfer W izard. Y ou can use the optional Operating System media for this process or you can create a wiza r d disk with the F iles and Settings T ransfer W izard. Running the Files and Settings T ransfer Wi zard With the Operating[...]

Setting Up Y our Computer 35 T o transfer data to the new computer: 1 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer , click Next . 2 On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next . The wizard r eads the collected files a nd settings and applies th[...]

36 Setting Up Y our Computer 3 In the Open field in the Run window , browse to the path for fastwiz (on the appropriate removable media) and click OK . 4 On the F iles and Settings T ransfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next . 5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer → Next . 6 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the [...]

Setting Up Y our Computer 37 2 In the User Account Control dialog box, click Continue . 3 Click Start a new transfer or Continue a transfer in progress . NOTE: Follow the instructions provided on the screen by the Windows Easy T ransfer wizard. Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating sy stem setup before you connect a printer to the com[...]

38 Setting Up Y our Computer 3 T urn on the printer and then turn on the computer . 4 Depending on your computer ’s operating system, a printer wizard may be available to help you install the printer driver . 5 If your computer is running the Microsoft ® W indows ® XP operating system and the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel[...]

Setting Up Y our Computer 39 Power Protection Devices Several devices are available to prot ect against power fluctuations and failures: • Surge protectors • Line conditioners • Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) Surge Protectors Surge protectors and power strips equi pped with surge protection help prevent damage to your computer from volt[...]

40 Setting Up Y our Computer NOTE: T o ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other devices, such as a printer , to a separate power strip that provides surge protection. A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices contain a battery that provides temp orary power to connected[...]

Using the Display 41 Using the Display Adjusting Brightness When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power , you can conserve power by setting the brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key on the k eyboard. NOTE: Brightness key combination s only affect the displa y on your portable compu[...]

42 Using the Display Y o u can enhance the legibility of te xt 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 prog[...]

Using the Display 43 the desktop may no longer be visible. T o view the parts of the video image that are not visible, you can use the touch pad or track stick to "pan" (or move ) the image up, down, left, and right. NOTICE: Y ou can damage an external monitor by using an unsupported refresh rate. Before adjusting the r efresh rate on an [...]

44 Using the Display 10 If prompted, click Ye s to keep the settings. 11 Click OK to close the Display P roperties window . T o disable dual independent display mode: 1 Click the Settings tab in the Display P roperties window . 2 Click the monitor 2 icon, uncheck the Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor option, and then click Apply . If nece[...]

Using the Display 45 4 Click the Settings tab → Advanced → Displays tab. See the documentation that came with your video card for additional information. Windows Vista 1 Click the W indows Vista Start button , and click Control P anel . 2 Under Appearance and P erson alization , click Adjust screen resolution . 3 In the Display Settings window [...]

46 Using the Display Launching Cataly st Control Center Y o u can launch Catalyst Control Center from any of the following access points: • W indows Start menu • Desktop shortcuts • Pr edefined hot keys Using the Start Menu F rom the W indows task bar , click Start → All Programs → A TI Catalyst Control Center → A TI Catalyst Control Ce[...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 47 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 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, press <Fn> and[...]

48 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad Key Combinations Sy stem Functions Battery CD or DVD T ray Display Functions Power Management <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the T ask Manager window . <Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter <Fn><F10> Ejects the tray out of the drive (if Dell QuickSet is installe[...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 49 Speaker Functions Microsoft ® Windows ® Logo Key Functions Adjusting Keyboard Settings T o adjust keyboard operation, such as the character r epeat rate, open the Control P anel and click Keyboard . F o r information about the Control P anel, see the W indows Help and Support Cent er . T o access the Help and [...]

50 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 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, position the curs or on t[...]

Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad 51 The touch pad has silk screening on two si des to indicate scrolling capability in these scroll zones. Scrolling is enabled by default. T o disable this feature, modify the mouse properties through the Control P anel. NOTE: The scroll zones may not work with all programs. For the scroll zones to function properl[...]

52 Using the Keyboard and T ouch Pad book.book Page 52 Friday , October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Using a Battery 53 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 with the batter[...]

54 Using a Battery Y o u can check the battery char ge (see "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 54) before you insert the battery into the computer . Y ou can also set power management options to alert yo u when the battery charge is low . See "Configuring P ower Management Settings" on page 58 for information about accessing [...]

Using a Battery 55 Microsoft ® Windows ® Power Meter The W indows P ower Meter indicates the remaining battery char ge. T o check the P ower Meter , double-click the icon on the taskbar . F o r instructions on accessing more information about the P ower Meter , see "Configuring P ower Management Settings" on page 58. If the computer is [...]

56 Using a Battery Low-Battery Warning NOTICE: T o avoid losing or corrupting data, sa ve your work immediately after a low-battery warning, and then connect the co mputer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power , hibernate mode begins automatically. By default, a pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is appro[...]

Using a Battery 57 T o enter standby mode in W indows XP , click the Start button, click T urn off computer , and then click Stand by . T o enter sleep mode in W indows Vi sta, click the W indows Vista Start button , and then click Sl eep . • Depending on how you set the po wer management options in the Po w e r Options P roperties window or the [...]

58 Using a Battery NOTE: Some ExpressCards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove and reinsert the card (see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 71), or simply restart (reboot) your computer . T o exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may tak e a short time to exit hibernate mo[...]

Using a Battery 59 If the battery is hot from being us ed in your computer or being in a hot environment, the battery may not cha rge when you connect the computer to an electrical outlet. The battery is too hot to start charging if the light flashes alternately green and orange. Disconnect the comput er from the electrical outlet and allow the com[...]

60 Using a Battery T o replace the battery , follow the removal procedur e in reverse order . 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 58) b[...]

Using Multimedia 61 Using Multimedia Playing a CD or DVD NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when yo u are not using the drive. NOTE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CD s or DVDs. Press the eject button on the front of the drive. 1 P ress the eject button on the front of the [...]

62 Using Multimedia 3 Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray and snap the disc onto the spindle. NOTE: If you use a CD/DVD drive that sh ipped with another com puter , you need to install the drivers and software necessary to play CDs or DVDs or write data. For more information, see the Drivers and Utilities media (the Drivers and[...]

Using Multimedia 63 3 Under Pick a task… , click Change the screen resolution . 4 In the Display P roperties window , click and drag the bar in Screen resolution to reduce the scr een resolution setting. 5 Click the drop-down menu under Color quality , and then click Medium (16 bit) . 6 Click OK to save the settings and close the window . Copying[...]

64 Using Multimedia 3 T o copy the CD or DVD: • If you have one CD or DVD drive , ensure that the settings ar e correct and click the Disc Copy button. The computer reads your source CD or D VD and copies the data to a te mporary folder on your computer hard drive. When prompted, insert a blank CD or D VD into the drive and click OK . • If you [...]

Using Multimedia 65 DVD-Writable Drives Helpful T ips • Use Microsoft ® W indows ® Explorer to drag and dr op files to a CD-R or CD-R W only after you start Sonic Digi talMedia and open a DigitalMedia project. • Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular ster eos. CD-R Ws do not play in most home or car stereos. • Y ou can[...]

66 Using Multimedia • Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recor ding until you are familiar with CD recor ding techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-R W and try again. Y ou can also use blank CD-RWs to test music file projects before you r ecord the project permanently to a blank CD-R. • See the Sonic website at www .[...]

Using Multimedia 67 When the meter is enabled, adjust t he volume with the volume control buttons or by pressing the following k eys: • Pr ess <Fn><P age Up> to increase volume. • Pr ess <Fn><P age Down> to decrease volume. • Pr ess <Fn><End> to mute volume. F or more information about QuickSet, ri ght-clic[...]

68 Using Multimedia book.book Page 68 Friday , October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Using Cards 69 Using Cards ExpressCards ExpressCar ds provide additional memory , wired and wireless communications, multimedia and securit y features. Expr essCards support two form factors: • ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide) • ExpressCard/54 (54 mm wide in an L-shape with a 34 mm connector) The 34 mm card fits into both the 34 mm and 54 mm card sl[...]

70 Using Cards Installing an ExpressCard Y o u can install an Expr essCard in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card. ExpressCar ds are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) or a label to indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards ar e keyed to pr event incorrect [...]

Using Cards 71 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 floppy disk or CD that came with the ExpressCar d. Removing an ExpressCard or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section[...]

72 Using Cards Media Memory Cards The 3-in-1 media memory card r eader pr ovides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stor ed on a media memory card. NOTE: A media memory card is not a bootable device. The 3-in-1 media memory card r eader reads Secure Digital (SD) car d/SDIO and MultiMediaCard (MMC) media me[...]

Using Cards 73 The computer recognizes the media memo ry car d and automatically loads the appropriate device driver . If the con figuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the CD that came with the media memory card, if applicable. Removing a Media Memory Card CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this [...]

74 Using Cards book.book Page 74 Friday , October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 75 Setting Up and Using Networks Phy sically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem Setting up a computer network provid es connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer , or a network. F or e x ample, with a network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer , access[...]

76 Setting Up and Using Networks Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft ® Windows ® XP Operating Sy stem 1 Click Start → All P rograms → Accessories → Communications → Network Setup Wizard → Next → Checklist for creating a network . NOTE: Selecting the connecti on method labeled This computer connects directly to the Internet enables t[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 77 Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) A WLAN is a series of interconnecte d computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather th an through a network cable connected to each computer . In a WLAN, a radi o communications device called an access point or wireless router co nnects network computers and [...]

78 Setting Up and Using Networks If W ireless Network Connection does not appear under LAN or High-Speed Internet, you may not have a wireless network car d. If W ireless Network Connection appears, you have a wir eless network card. T o view detailed information about the wireless network car d: 1 Right-click Wireless Network Connection . 2 Click [...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 79 7 Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wir eless router to ensure that there is no power connected to the router . NOTE: W ait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before you continue with the network setup. 8 Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowe[...]

80 Setting Up and Using Networks NOTE: The following networking instructions do not apply to i nternal cards with Bluetooth ® wireless technology or cellular products. This section provides general procedur es for connecting to a network using wireless technology . Specific network names and configuration details vary . See "W ireless Local A[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 81 F or specific information about the wire less configuration utility installed on your computer , see your wir eless net work documentation in the W indows Help and Support Center (see "W indo ws Help and Support Center" on page 17). Completing the Connection to the WLAN When you turn on your computer and a[...]

82 Setting Up and Using Networks Monitoring the Status of the Wireles s Network Card Through Dell QuickSet The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer ’s wireless devices. T o turn the wireless activity indicator on or off, click the QuickS et icon in the taskbar and select Hotkey P opups .[...]

Setting Up and Using Networks 83 • The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility (already installed on your computer if you purchased the card wh en you purchased your computer , or on the CD that accompanied your card if purchased separately from your computer) If the utility is corrupted or delete d from your computer , see the Dell Mobile Broadband C[...]

84 Setting Up and Using Networks NOTE: Enabling Windows Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking software. F or more information, click Start → Control P anel → Security → Windows Fi r e w a l l , or see "W indows Help and Support Center" on page 17. book.book Page 84 Friday , October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Securing Y our Computer 85 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 cabl e slot on your computer . F or more information, see the instructions included with the device. NO[...]

86 Securing Y our Computer When using passwords, observ e the following guidelines: • Choose a password that you can rememb 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 password. If you do write it down, however , ensure t[...]

Securing Y our Computer 87 NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area. If you do not know , call a law enforceme nt agency where you live. • If the computer belongs to a company , notify the security office of the company . • Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer . [...]

88 Securing Y our Computer book.book Page 88 Friday , October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 89 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" (see "T urni[...]

90 Adding and Replacing Parts 2 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, press and hold the power button for several seconds until the computer turns off. Before W orking Inside Y our Computer Use the following [...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 91 4 Disconnect your computer and all att ached devices from their electrical outlets, slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer , and then lift the battery from the bay . 5 P ress the power button to ground the system board. 6 Remove any installed cards from the Expr essCard slot (see &qu[...]

92 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 . 1 T urn the computer off. 2 T urn the computer over and remove the device security screw . 3 Insert a scribe into the notch and push it to the side to release the drive from [...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 93 NOTICE: T o prevent data loss, tur n off your computer (see "T urning Off Y our Computer" on page 89) before removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate mode. NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile; ev en a slight bump can damage the driv[...]

94 Adding and Replacing Parts NOTICE: When the hard drive is no t in the computer , store it in protective antistatic packaging. See "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide . 3 Slide the hard drive out of the computer . 4 Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging for stor in[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 95 Memory CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures 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 page 167 for information on the memory supported by your c[...]

96 Adding and Replacing Parts 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). 3 If you are r eplacing a memory module, remove the existing module: a Use your fingertips to carefully spr ead apart th[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 97 NOTICE: If the memory module cove r is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer . 5 Replace the memory module cover . 6 Insert the battery into the battery bay , or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet. 7 Reinstall the hard d[...]

98 Adding and Replacing Parts Modem CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . If you order ed the optional modem at the same time that you order ed your computer , the modem is alr eady installed. 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on p[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 99 4 Install the replacement modem: a Connect the modem cable to the modem. NOTICE: The connector is keyed to ens ure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connector an d realign the card. b Align the modem with the screw holes and pr ess the modem down into the connector on the system board. c Replace the [...]

100 Adding and Replacing Parts 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 using a wrist grounding strap or by peri odically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 101 Keyboard 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 using a wrist grounding strap or by peri odically touching an unpainte d metal surface (such as a connector on the b[...]

102 Adding and Replacing Parts 4 Remove the keyboar d: a Remove the two keyboar d screws. NOTICE: The keycaps on the keyboard are fr agile, easily dislodged, and time- consuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard. b Slightly slide the keyboar d toward the back of the computer , and then lift the keyboar d only enough to [...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 103 Wireless Mini-Card If you order ed a Mini-Card with your co mputer , the card is already installed. 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 [...]

104 Adding and Replacing Parts b Release the Mini-Card by pushing the metal securing tabs towar d the back of the computer until the card pops up slightly . c Lift the Mini-Card out of its system boar d connector . NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connecto rs on the card and on the sy s[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 105 NOTICE: T o avoid damage to the Mini-Card, never place cables under the card. b Connect the two antenna cables to th e Mini-Card (black cable to the connector labeled "aux" and the whit e cable to the connector labeled "main"). book.book Page 105 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

106 Adding and Replacing Parts 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 electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by peri odically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector [...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 107 4 Insert a plastic scribe into the guide on the side of the coin-cell battery compartment, and pop the battery out. When you replace the battery , insert it at a 30-degree angle under the clip with the positive (identified by a plus [+] symbol) side up, and then push it into place. Display CAUTION: Before you begin an[...]

108 Adding and Replacing Parts 5 Loosen the captive grounding-wire screw . 6 Disconnect the display cable, using the pull-tab. 7 Dislodge the display cable from the display cable channel. 8 Lift the display away from the computer . NOTICE: The standby switch is fragile a nd easily broken. Avoid knocking the switch when removing and replacing the di[...]

Adding and Replacing Parts 109 When you replace the display , ensure that the display cable is lying flat in the display cable channel and secure ly tuck ed underneath the tabs. Also , ensure that the antenna cables ar e not twisted and that they ar e lying flat in the antenna cable clip. book.book Page 109 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

110 Adding and Replacing Parts book.book Page 110 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

T roubleshooting 111 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[...]

112 T roubleshooting NOTE: If your computer cannot di splay a screen image, see "Contacting Dell" on page 165. 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 one of the following two ways. NOTE: If you wait too l[...]

T roubleshooting 113 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[...]

114 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 115 F or any problem encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the pr oblem. 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 165)[...]

116 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 an d later are pr e-installed with Dell Support Center . F or com[...]

T roubleshooting 117 • View frequently ask ed questions. • L earn more about Dell Support . •T u r n Dell Support off. F or more information about Dell Support , click the question mark (?) at the top of the Dell Support window . T o access Dell Support : • Click the Dell Support icon in the notification area of your W indows desktop. NOTE:[...]

118 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 119 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[...]

120 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 S TATE IN W INDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD DISC — S[...]

T roubleshooting 121 3 Click P roperties → T ools → Check Now . The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrator on the computer , click Continue ; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action. 4 F ollow the instructions on the screen. E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems CAUTION: Before you begin[...]

122 T roubleshooting R UN THE M ODEM H ELPER DIAGNOSTICS — Wi nd ow s XP : 1 Click Start → All P rograms → Modem Helper . 2 F ollow the instructions on the scr een to identify and resolve modem problems. Modem Helper is not available on certain computers. Wi nd ow s V i st a : 1 Click the W indows Vista Start button → All P rograms → Mode[...]

T roubleshooting 123 (your program may requir e an upgrad e) to scan the computer and remove spyware. F or more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the key wo rd spyware . Error Messages CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . If the message i[...]

124 T roubleshooting E XTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS CHANGED — The amount of memory recor ded in nonvolatile memory (NVR AM) does no t match the memory installed in the computer . Restart the computer . If the error appears again, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 165). T HE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE DESTINATION DRIVE ?[...]

T roubleshooting 125 I NSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA — The operating system is trying to boot to nonbootable media, such as a floppy disk or CD. Insert bootable media. I NVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION - PLEASE RUN S Y STEM S ETUP P ROGRAM — The system configuration info rmation does not match the hardwar e configuration. The message is most likely to [...]

126 T roubleshooting M EMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS , READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary , re place them (see "Memory" on page 95). M EMORY ODD / EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS , READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be[...]

T roubleshooting 127 W indows Vista : 1 Click the W indows Vista Start button → Control P anel → P rograms → P rograms and F eatures . 2 Select the program you want to remove. 3 Click Uninstall . 4 See the program documentation fo r installation instructions. S ECTOR NOT FOUND — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive.[...]

128 T roubleshooting U NEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED MODE — The keyboar d controller may be malfunctioning, or a memory modu le may be loose. R u n the System Memory tests and the Keyboar d Cont roller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 111). X : IS NOT ACCESSIBLE . T HE DEVICE IS NOT READY — Insert a dis[...]

T roubleshooting 129 I F YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH A D ELL - PROVIDED IEEE 1394 DEVICE — Contact Dell or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer (see "Contacting Dell" on page 165). I F YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH AN IEEE 1394 DEVICE NOT PROVIDED BY D ELL — Contact Dell or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer (see "Contacting Dell" on page 1[...]

130 T roubleshooting T O VERIFY THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE EXTERNAL KEYBOARD , CHECK THE INTEGRATED KEYBOARD — 1 Shut down the computer . 2 Disconnect the external k eyboard. 3 T urn on the computer . 4 F rom the W indows desktop, click Start → All P rograms → Accessories → Notepad . 5 T ype some characters on the internal ke yboard and v[...]

T roubleshooting 131 The computer stops responding NOTICE: Y ou might lose data if you are unab le to perform an operating sy stem shutdown. 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[...]

132 T roubleshooting Wi nd ow s V i st a : The P rogram Compatibility Wi zard configur es a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non- W indows Vista operating system environments. 1 Click Start → Control P anel → P rograms → Use an older program with this version of Windows. 2 In the welcome screen, click Next . 3 F ollow the [...]

T roubleshooting 133 NOTICE: Y ou cannot reinstall the Dell Medi aDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive. Conta ct Dell for assistance (see "Contacting Dell " on page 165). Other software problems C HECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION — • Ensure that t[...]

134 T roubleshooting I F YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE — • Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem. • See the software documentation for minimum memory requir ements. If necessary , install additional memory (see "Memory " on page 95 ) . • Reseat t[...]

T roubleshooting 135 Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [WWAN]) NOTE: The Dell Mobile B roadb and Card Utility user’ s guide and the Mobile Broadband ExpressCard user ’ s guide are available through Windows Help and Support (click Start → Help and Support ). Y ou can also download the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’ s gui[...]

136 T roubleshooting C HARGE THE BATTERY — The battery charge may be depleted. 1 Reinstall the battery . 2 Use the AC adapter to connect the co mputer to an electrical outlet. 3 T urn on the computer . NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on ho w often the battery is used and the con[...]

T roubleshooting 137 Printer 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 printer , contac t the printer’ s manufacturer . C HECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION — See the printer do cumentation for setup and[...]

138 T roubleshooting Scanner Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTE: If you need technical a ssistance for your scanne r , contact the scanner’ s manufacturer . C HECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION — See the scanner documentation for setup and[...]

T roubleshooting 139 No sound from integrated speakers A DJUST THE W INDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower -right corner of your screen. Ensu re that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Adjust t he volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion. A DJUST THE VOLUME USING KEYBOARD SHORTCUT[...]

140 T roubleshooting A DJUST THE W INDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower -right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Remote Control Problems A PPLICATION DOES NOT RESPOND TO REMOTE CONTROL WITHIN THE SPECIFIED MAXIMUM RANGE • Check that the battery is p[...]

T roubleshooting 141 3 T urn on the computer . 4 At the W indows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it. If the touch pad operates correctl y , the mouse may be defective. C HECK THE SY STEM SETUP PROGRAM SETTINGS — V erify that the system setup program lists the correct device for t he pointing device o[...]

142 T roubleshooting A DJUST THE POWER PROPERTIES — Search for the keywor d sleep in W indows Help and Support. S WITCH THE VIDEO IMAGE — If your computer is attached to an external monitor , press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image to the display . If the display is difficult to read A DJUST THE BRIGHTNESS — P ress <Fn> and[...]

T roubleshooting 143 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 monitor brightness and contrast controls. If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller ma[...]

144 T roubleshooting Wi nd o ws X P: 1 Click Start → Control P anel . 2 Under Pick a Ca tegory , click P erformance and Maintenance , and click System . 3 In the System P r operties window , click the Hardware tab, and click Device Manager . W indows Vista: 1 Click the W indows Vista Start button and right-click Computer . 2 Click P roperties →[...]

T roubleshooting 145 W indows Vista: 1 Click the W indows Vista start button , and right-click Computer . 2 Click P roperties → Device Manager . NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrator on the computer , click Continue ; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager . 3 Right-click the dev[...]

146 T roubleshooting 5 At the W elcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next . NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities program display s drivers only for hardware that came installed in your computer . If you installed additional hardware, the drivers for the new hardwa re might not be displaye d. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the Drivers and Uti[...]

T roubleshooting 147 7 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next . 8 Click Fi n i s h and restart your computer . W indows Vista: 1 Click the W indows Vista start button , and right-click Computer . 2 Click P roperties → Device Manager . NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrator on the comput[...]

148 T roubleshooting 3 In the F ix a P roblem section, click Hardware T roubleshooter . 4 In the Hardware T roubleshooter list, select the option that best describes the problem and click Next to follow the remaining troubleshooting steps. W indows Vista: 1 Click the W indows Vista Start button and click Help and Support. 2 In the F ind an answer s[...]

T roubleshooting 149 • If you received an Operating System disc with your computer , you can use it to restor e your operating system. However , using the Operating System disc also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the disc only if System Restore did not r esolve your operating system problem. Using Windows Vista Sy stem Restore The W indo[...]

150 T roubleshooting Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State If problems occur after you install a device driver , use Device Driver Rollback (see "Using W indows Device Driver Rollback" on page 144) to resolve the problem. If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore. NOTICE: Before you res[...]

T roubleshooting 151 Undoing the Last Sy stem Restore NOTICE: Before you undo the last sy stem res tore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter , open, or delete any files or programs until the sy stem restoration is complete. 1 Click the W indows Vista Start button → Help and Support . 2 Ty p e System Restore in t[...]

152 T roubleshooting 8 Select the Y es, reformat hard drive a nd rest ore system software to factory condition check box. 9 Click Next . The computer is restor ed to the default factory configuration. 10 When the restor e operation is completed, click Fi n i s h to restart the computer . Using the Operating Sy stem Media Before Y ou Begin If you ar[...]

T roubleshooting 153 NOTICE: The Operating Sy stem media provides options for reinstalling Windows. The options can overwrite files and possib ly affect programs that are installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows un less a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so. 1 Save and close any open files and exit [...]

154 T roubleshooting • If you received an Operating System disc with your computer , you can use it to restor e your operating system. However , using the Operating System disc also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the disc only if System Restore did not r esolve your operating system problem. Using Microsoft Windows Sy stem Restore The W [...]

T roubleshooting 155 Enabling Sy stem Restore NOTE: If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, Sy stem Restore is automatically disabled. T o see if System Restore is enabled: 1 Click Start → Control Pa n e l → P erformance and Maintenance → System . 2 Click the System Restore tab and ensure that T ur[...]

156 T roubleshooting NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer . Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot. 5 When prompted, click Ye s . The computer restarts. Because the co mputer is r estored to its original operating state, the screens that appe ar , such as the End User License Agreement, ar e the same ones that a ppeared the fir[...]

T roubleshooting 157 6 Right-click Local Disk (C) in W indows Explorer , click P rop erties , and verify that the additional disk spac e is available as indicated by the increased value for F ree Space . 7 Click Fi n i s h to close the PC Res tor e Re mov al window and restart the computer . Using the Operating Sy stem Media Before Y ou Begin If yo[...]

158 T roubleshooting NOTICE: The Operating Sy stem media provides options for reinstalling Windows. The options can overwrite files and po ssibly affect programs that are installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reins tall Windows unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so. 1 Save and close any open files and exit [...]

Dell™ QuickSet Features 159 Dell™ QuickSet Features NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer . Dell™ QuickSet provides you with ea sy 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 QuickSet, [...]

160 Dell™ QuickSet Features book.book Page 160 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

T raveling With Y our Computer 161 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 tore it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case • Use the Service T ag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and [...]

162 T raveling With Y our Computer NOTICE: If the computer has been exposed to extreme temperatures, allow it to acclimate to room temperature for 1 hour before turning it on. • Protect the computer , the batteries, 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[...]

T raveling With Y our Computer 163 T raveling by Air NOTICE: Do not walk the computer through a metal detector . Send the computer through an X-ray machine or have it hand-inspected. • Ensure that you have a charged battery available in case you ar e asked to turn on the computer . • Prior to entering the airplane, verify that using a computer [...]

164 T raveling With Y our Computer book.book Page 164 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Contacting Dell 165 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[...]

166 Contacting Dell book.book Page 166 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Specifications 167 Specifications Processor P rocessor type AMD T urion™ 64 or AMD Sempron™ L1 cache 128 KB L2 cache 256 KB, 512 KB, 1 MB External bus frequency (front side bus) 533 MHz Sy stem Information System chip set A TI RS485M / SB600 Data bus width 64 bits DRAM bus width dual-channel (2) 64-bit buses P rocessor address bus width 40 bits[...]

168 Specifications 3-in-1 Media Memory Card Reader 3-in-1 media memory card controller Ricoh R5C832 3-in-1 media memory card connector 3-in-1 combo card connector Cards supported SD/SDIO/MMC 3-in-1 media memory card connector size 30.55 mm x 28.9 mm x 4.55 mm Memory Memory module connector two SODIMM connectors Memory module capacities 256 MB, 512 [...]

Specifications 169 Communications Modem: Ty p e v .92 Data/F ax MDC modem Controller softmodem Interface HAD Bus Network adapter 10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board W ireless internal PCI-e Mini-Card WLAN Video Video type: integrated on system board Video controller AT I R 4 8 5 M Video memory up to 128 MB of shared memory (with 256 MB of system me[...]

170 Specifications Display T ype (active-matrix TFT) 15.4-inch WXGA Display area (15.4-inch): Height 207 mm (8.2 inches) Wi d t h 331.2 mm (13.0 inches) Diagonal 391.2 mm (15.4 inches) Maximum resolution 1280 x 800 at 262,144 colors Refresh rate 60 Hz Operating angle 0 ° (closed) to 180° Viewing angles: Horizontal ±40° minimum V ertical +10°/?[...]

Specifications 171 Keyboard Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe); 91 (Japan) Layout QWER TY/AZER TY/Kanji T ouch Pad X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) 240 cpi Size: Wi d t h 73.0-mm (2.9-inch) sensor -active area Height 42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle Battery T ype 9-cell "smart" lithium ion 6-cell "smart" l[...]

172 Specifications Charge time (approximate) : Computer off 3.5 hours (9-cell) 2.5 hours (6-cell) 2.5 hours (4-cell, when available) Operating time Battery operatin g time varies depending on operating conditions and can be significantly reduced under certain power -intensive conditions. See "P ower P roblems" on page 135. See "Using[...]

Specifications 173 T emperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Phy sical Height 36 mm (1.42 inches) W idth 356 mm (14.02 inches) Depth 265.5 mm (10.45 inches) W eight (with 6-cell battery): Configurable to less than 2.9 kg (6.38 lb) Environmental T emperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C [...]

174 Specifications Altitude (maximum): Operating –15.2 to 3048 m (– 50 to 10,000 ft) Storage –15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft) Airborne contaminant level G2 or low er as defined by ISA-S71.04-1985 Environmental (continued) book.book Page 174 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Appendix 175 Appendix Using the Sy stem Setup Program NOTE: Y our operating sy stem may automatica lly configure most of the options available in the sy stem s etup program, thus overriding options that you set through the sy stem setup program. (An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through the sy s tem [...]

176 Appendix Viewing the Sy stem Setup Screens 1 T urn on (or restart) your computer . 2 When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately . If you wait too long and the Microsoft ® W indows ® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the W indows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again. Sy stem Setup Screen NOTE: For inf[...]

Appendix 177 Commonly Used Options Certain options requir e that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect. Menu bar — The menu bar lists the major categories of settings available in system setup. Use the rig ht and left arrow keys to move from one menu to another . Options List — This field appears on the left side of the system[...]

178 Appendix Changing the Boot Sequence The boot sequence, or boot order , tells the computer wher e to look to find the software needed to start the operating system. Y o u can control the boot sequence and enable/disable devices using the Boot Order page of the system setup program. NOTE: T o change the boot sequen ce on a one-time-only bas is, s[...]

Appendix 179 Performing a One-T ime Boot Y ou can set a one-time-only boot se quence without entering the system setup program. (Y ou can also use this procedur e to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partit ion on your hard drive.) 1 Shut down the computer through the Start menu. 2 Connect the computer to an electrical outlet. 3 [...]

180 Appendix NOTICE: T o prevent damage to th e antiglare coating, do not wipe the display with soap or alcohol. • Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water and wipe the computer and keyboar d. Do not allow water from th e cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest. • T o clean your monitor screen, lightly da mpen a soft[...]

Appendix 181 4 Blow carefully into the ball cage or us e a can of compr essed air to dislodge dust and lint. 5 If the rollers inside the ball cage ar e dirty , clean the rollers with a cotton swab moistened lightly with isopropyl alcohol. 6 Recenter the rollers in their channels if they are misaligned. Ensur e that fluff from the swab is not left o[...]

182 Appendix 2 W ith a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line from the cent er 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 commercial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust, [...]

Appendix 183 If necessary , consult a repr esentative of Dell Inc. or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in compliance with the FCC regulations: Macrovision Product Notice This product incorporates copy protecti on technology [...]

184 Appendix book.book Page 184 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Glossary 185 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[...]

186 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 187 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[...]

188 Glossary DDR2 SDR AM — double-data-rate 2 SDRAM — A type of DDR SDR AM that uses a 4-bit prefetch and other architectural changes to boost memory speed to over 400 MHz. Dell T ravel Remote — A small r emote control stored in the portable computer ’s ExpressCar d slot which provides simple functionality for enjoying multimedia content. d[...]

Glossary 189 D VD-R — DVD r ecordable — A recor dable versi on of a DVD. Data can be r ecorded only once onto a DVD-R. Once r ecorded, th e data cannot be erased or written over . DVD + RW — DVD r ewritable — A rewritable versi on of a D VD. Data can be written to a D VD+RW disc, and then erased an d written over (r ewritten). (DVD+R W tech[...]

190 Glossary Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™ computer . Use the Express Service Code when contacting Dell for assistance. Expr ess Service Code service may not be available in some countries. extended display mode — A display setting that allows yo u to use a second monitor as an extension of your disp[...]

Glossary 191 GHz — gigahertz — A measurement of fr eque ncy that equals one thousand million Hz, or one thousand MHz. The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces are often mea sured in GHz. graphics mode — A video mode that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors. Graphics modes can display an unli[...]

192 Glossary IEEE 1394 — Institute of Electrical and El ectronics Engineers, Inc. — A high- performance serial bus used to connect IEEE 1394-compatible devices, such as digital cameras and DVD players, to the computer . infrared sensor — A port that allows you to transf er data between the computer and infrared-compatible devices without usin[...]

Glossary 193 L LAN — local area network — A computer ne twork covering a small ar ea. A LAN usually is confined to a buil ding or a few nearby building s. A LAN can be connected to another LAN over any distance throug h tele phone lines and radio waves to form a wide area network (W AN). LCD — liquid crystal display — The technolo gy used b[...]

194 Glossary MHz — megahertz — A measure of fr equency that equals 1 million cycles per second. The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces are often measur ed in MHz. Mini PCI — A standard for integrated periph eral devices with an emphasis on communications such as modems and NICs. A Mini PCI card is a small external car d tha[...]

Glossary 195 P parallel connector — An I/O port often used to connect a parallel printer to your computer . Also referr ed to as an LPT port . partition — A physical storage area on a har d drive that is assigned to one or more logical storage areas known as logical driv es. Each partition can contain multiple logical drives. PC Card — A remo[...]

196 Glossary R RAI D — redundant array of independent disks — A method of providing data redundancy . Some common implementations of RAID include R AID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, R AID 10, and RAID 50. RAM — random-access memory — The primary temporary storage area for program instructions and data. Any information stored in R AM is lost when you s[...]

Glossary 197 S SAS — serial attached SCSI — A faster , se rial version of the SCSI interface (as opposed to the original SCSI parallel architecture). SA T A — serial A T A — A faster , serial version of the A T A (IDE) interface. ScanDisk — A Microsoft utility that checks files , folders, and the hard disk’s surface for errors. ScanDisk[...]

198 Glossary Strike Zone ™ — Reinforced area of the platform base that protects the har d drive by acting as a dampening device when a computer experiences r esonating shock or is dropped (whether the computer is on or off). surge protectors — P revent voltage spik es, such as those that may occur during an electrical storm, from entering the[...]

Glossary 199 TPM — trusted platform module — A har dwar e-based security feature that when combined with security software enhances network and computer security by enabling features such as file and e-mail protection. travel module — A plastic device designed to fit inside the module bay of a portable computer to reduce the weight of the com[...]

200 Glossary video memory — Memory that consists of memory chips dedicated to video functions. Video memory is usually faster than sy stem memory . The amount of video memory installed primarily influences the number of colors that a program can display . video mode — A mode that describes how text and graphics are displayed on a monitor . Grap[...]

Glossary 201 WW AN — wireless wide area network. A wi r eless high-speed data network using cellular technology and covering a much larger geographic ar ea than WLAN. WXGA — wide-aspect extended graphics arra y — A video standar d for video cards and controllers that supports re solutions up to 1280 x 800. X XGA — extended graphics array ?[...]

202 Glossary book.book Page 202 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]

Index 203 Index Numbers 3-in-1 media memory car d rea de r , 7 2 A audio connectors, 26 audio . See sound B battery c h a r g e g a u g e , 29, 55 charging, 5 8 checking the charge, 5 4 conserving power , 5 6 description, 3 0 performance, 5 3 power meter , 5 5 removing, 5 9 replacing coin-cell battery , 1 0 6 storing, 6 0 battery-bay latch release,[...]

204 Index contacting Dell, 165 copying CDs general information, 6 3 helpful tips, 6 5 how to , 6 3 copying D VDs general information, 6 3 helpful tips, 6 5 how to , 6 3 D Dell contacting, 1 6 5 support site, 1 6 Dell Diagnostics a b o u t , 111 starting from the Drivers and Utilities media, 1 1 3 starting from your hard drive, 1 1 1 Dell MediaDirec[...]

Index 205 E End User License Agreement, 14 ergonomics information, 14 error messages, 123 ExpressCar d slot description, 2 6 ExpressCar ds b l a n k s , 69, 71 CardBus technology , 6 9 extended, 6 9 installing, 7 0 Mobile Broadband, 6 9 removing, 7 1 slots, 6 9 types, 6 9 WW AN, 6 9 F fan d e s c r i p t i o n , 25, 30 F iles and Settings T ransfer[...]

206 Index K key bo ard description, 2 2 numeric keypad, 4 7 p r o b l e m s , 129 r e m o v i n g , 101 shortcuts, 4 8 keyboar d status lights description, 2 3 keypad numeric, 4 7 L labels Microsoft W indows, 1 5 Service T ag, 1 5 lost computer , 86 M media memory car ds blanks, 7 3 CardBus technology , 7 2 installing, 7 2 removing, 7 3 slots, 7 2 [...]

Index 207 O operating system CD, 1 8 reinstalling, 1 8 reinstalling W indows Vista, 1 5 4 optical drive description, 2 5 optical-drive-tray eject button description, 2 5 P passwords about, 8 5 forgetting, 8 6 PC Restore, 155 phone numbers, 165 playing CDs, 61 playing D VDs, 61 power hibernate mode, 5 7 line conditioners, 3 9 modes for managing powe[...]

208 Index problems (continued) restor e operating system to p r e v i o u s s t a t e , 148, 153 scanner , 1 3 8 s l o w c o m p u t e r pe r f o r m a n c e , 122, 133 s o f t w a r e , 130-131, 133 sound and speakers, 1 3 8 speakers, 1 3 8 s p y w a r e , 122, 133 P roduct Information Guide, 14 protecting your computer , 85 R RAM. See memory regu[...]

Index 209 telephone numbers, 165 touch pad cleaning, 1 8 0 customizing, 5 1 description, 2 2 tracking software protecting your computer , 8 6 transferring information to a new computer , 33 traveling with the computer by air , 1 6 3 identification tag, 1 6 1 packing, 1 6 1 t i p s , 162 troubleshooting Dell Diagnostics, 1 1 1 Hardwar e T r oublesho[...]

210 Index wizar d s F iles and Settings T ransfer Wi z a r d , 3 3 P rogram Compatibility wizard, 1 3 1 WLAN, 75 installing Mini-Card, 1 0 3 WW AN. See Mobile Broadband book.book Page 210 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM[...]