Dell 531s manual

www .dell.com | support.dell.com Dell™ Inspiron™ 531s Owner’ s Manual Model DCSLA book.book Page 1 Wednesda y, April 16, 2008 3:33 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. If you purchased[...]

Contents 3 Contents Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 1 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer . . . 15 Front View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Back View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Back Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Installing Y our Computer in an Enclosure . . . . [...]

4 Contents Connecting T wo Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Connecting T wo Monitors With VGA Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Connecting One Monitor Wi th a VGA Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector . . . . . . 34 Connecting a TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Changing the Display Settings . . . .[...]

Contents 5 Setting Up a Home and Office Network . . . . . . . . 49 Connecting to a Network Adapter . . . . . . . . . 49 Network Setup Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Setting Up Y our Internet Connection . . . . . . . . 51 2 Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 T [...]

6 Contents Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . [...]

Contents 7 Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Restoring Y our Operating Sy stem . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Using Microsoft Windows Sy stem Restore . . . . 93 Using Dell PC Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Using the Operating Sy stem CD . . . . . . . . . . 98 4 Removing and Installing[...]

8 Contents Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 Recommended Drive Cable Connections . . . . . 125 Connecting Drive Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Drive Interface Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables . . . 126 Hard Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 Insta[...]

Contents 9 Replacing the Su pport Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164 Replacing the Co mputer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167 Sy stem Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172 Entering Sy stem Setup . . . . . . .[...]

10 Contents Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183 Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183 T echnical Support and Customer Service . . . . . 183 DellConnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184 Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184 AutoT ech Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [...]

Finding Information 11 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 • W arranty information • T erms and Conditions (U.S.[...]

12 Finding Information • Service T ag and Express Service Code • Microsoft W indows License Label Service T ag and Microsoft ® Windows ® License 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 direct your call[...]

Finding Information 13 • 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 Care — Contac[...]

14 Finding Information • How to use W indows XP • How to use W indows Vista • How to work with programs and files • How to personalize my desktop Windows Help and Support Center 1 T o access W indows Help and Support: • In W indows XP , click Start and click Help and Support . • In W indows Vista ® , click the W indows Vista Start butt[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 15 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer Front V iew of the Computer 2 4 5 7 3 6 8 1 9 10 book.book Page 15 Wednesday , April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

16 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 1 Service T ag (located on top of the chassis towards the rear) Use the Service T ag to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call technical support. 2 FlexBay open/close P ress here to open or close the floppy/media car d reader panel. 3 CD or DVD eject button P ress to eject a di[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 17 Back V iew of the Computer 1 2 7 5 6 4 3 book.book Page 17 Wednesday , April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

18 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 1 back panel connectors Plug USB, audio , and other devices into the appropriate connector (see "Back P anel Connectors" on page 19 for more information). 2 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express car ds. 3 power supply LED Indicates power availability for power supply . NO[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 19 Back Panel Connectors 1 network activity light Flashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting or receiving network data. A high volume of network traffic may make this light appear to be in a steady "on" state. 2 network adapter connector T o attach your computer to a network or broadband d[...]

20 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 4 center/subwoofer connector Use the orange connector to attach a speak er to a L ow F requency Effects (LFE) audio channel. LFE audio channel is found in digital surround sound audio schemes that carries only low frequency inform ation of 80 Hz and below . The LFE channel drives a su bwoofer to provide e xtre[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 21 Installing Y our Computer in an Enclosure Installing your computer in an enclosure can r estrict the airflow and impact your computer ’s performance, possibly ca using it to overheat. F ollow the guidelines below when installing your computer in an enclosure: NOTICE: The operating temperature specifications [...]

22 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer NOTICE: Do not install your computer in an enclosure that does not allow airflow . Restricting the airflow impacts your computer ’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat. book.book Page 22 Wednesday , April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 23 Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating sy stem setup before yo u connect a printer to the computer . See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to: • Obtain and install updated drivers. • Connect the printer to the computer . • Load paper and instal[...]

24 Setting Up and Using 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: W indows ® XP Click Start → Control P anel → P rinters and F axes → Add a printer to start the Add P rinter Wizar d W indow[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 25 Playing CDs and DVDs 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. NOTICE: Do not move the comp uter when you are playing CDs or DVDs. 1 P ress the eject button on the front of the drive. 2 Place the disc, label side out, in t[...]

26 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer A CD player includes the following basic buttons: A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: F or more information on playing CDs or D VDs, click Help on the CD or DVD 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 prev[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 27 Adjusting the V olume NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing. Wi n d o w s X P : 1 Click the Start button, point to All P rograms → Accessories → Entertainment , and then click V olume Control . 2 In the Master V olume control window , click and drag the bar in the Master [...]

28 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 3 Under P ersonalization , click Adjust screen resolution . 4 In the Display Settings window , click and drag the bar in Resolution to change the setting to 800 by 600 pixels . 5 Click the drop-down menu under Colors , and then click Medium (16 bit) . 6 Click OK . Copying CDs and DVDs NOTE: Ensure that you obs[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 29 2 T o copy the CD or D VD: • If you have one CD or D VD drive, ensure that the settings are corr ect and click the Disc Copy button. The comp uter reads your source CD or D VD and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive. When prompted, insert a blank CD or D VD into the drive and cl[...]

30 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to p ermanently stor e large amounts of information. After you create a D VD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finaliz ed" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank D V D+/-RWs if you plan to[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 31 • Commercially available D VD players used in home theater systems may not support all available D VD formats. F or a list of formats supported by your D VD player , see the documentat ion provided with your D VD player or contact the manufacturer . • Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-R W to its maximum capac[...]

32 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer T o use the Media Card Reader : 1 Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion. 2 Slide the media or card into the approp riate slot until it is completely seated in the connector . If you enco unter resistance, do not force the media or card. Check the car d orientation and try ag[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 33 Connecting T wo Monitors CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . If you purchased a graphics card that supports dual monitors, follow these instructions to connect and enable your monitors. The instructions tell you how[...]

34 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer Connecting One Monitor With a VG A Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on page 101. 2 Connect the VGA connector on the mo nitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer . 3 Connect the D VI connector on the other monitor to th[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 35 Changing the Display Settings 1 After you connect the monitor(s) or TV , turn on the computer . The Microsoft ® W indows ® desktop displays on the primary monitor . 2 Enable clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings. • In clone mode, both monitors display the same image. • In extended d[...]

36 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer NOTICE: The graphics card in your computer is installed in the PCI Express x16 slot. When there is a card in th is slot and you add a periphe ral that does not support s3 suspend, your computer wi ll not enter standby mode. T o set standby mode to automaticall y activate after a defined period of inactivity : [...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 37 Power Options Properties Define your standby mode settings, hib ernate mode settings, and other power settings in the P ower Options P roperties window . T o access the P ower Options P roperties window: 1 Click Start → Control P anel → Pick a category → P erformance and Maintenance . 2 Under or pick a C[...]

38 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer If you want to change the default sett ings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the T urn off monitor , T urn off hard disks, Sy stem stand by , or System hibernates field, and then select a time-out from the displayed list. Changing the time-out for a scheme fi eld permanently changes the default settin[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 39 When the computer exits from a pow er conservation mode (Standby or Hibernate), the W indows desktop is restor e d to the state it was in before it entered the mode. W indows Vista has thr ee main defa ult power management modes: • Balanced • P ower Saver • High P erformance Dell has added a fourth, Dell[...]

40 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer T o exit from standby mode, press a k e y on the keyboar d or move the mouse. NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data. Windows Vista has a new feature called Hybrid Sleep mode - this saves the data into a file and also puts the sy stem into standby. If you lose power , the [...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 41 3 Under System and Maintenance , click P ower Options . This takes you to the main Select a P ower Plan window . 4 In the Select A P ower Plan window , you can change or modify power settings. Power Management Modes W indows Vista has thr ee main de fault power management modes: • Balanced • P ower Saver ?[...]

42 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer Advanced T ab The Advanced tab allows you to set many different settings beyond the basic ones above. If you do not know or are no t sur e what to set, then leave settings at the default. T o access the advanced settings: 1 Choose the Po w e r P l a n you want to change. 2 Click Change Plan Settings from just [...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 43 About RAID Configurations (For Windows V ista ® only) This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration you may have selected when you purchased your comp uter . Y our computer supports RAID level 1. A R AID level 1 is recommended for users that desir e a high level of data integrity . The drives in[...]

44 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer Configuring Y our Hard Drives for RAID Y our computer can be configured for R AID , even if you did not select a RAID configuration when the computer was purc hased. F o r an explanation of R AID levels and their requir ements, see "About RAID Configurations (F or W indows Vista ® only)" on page 43.[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 45 Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility NOTICE: The following procedure wi ll result in the loss of all data on your hard drive(s). Back up any data you want to keep b efore continuing. Hard drives of any size may be used to cr eate a RAID configuration. Ideally , however , the drives should be of equa l size[...]

46 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 9 T o review the details of the array th at you set up, use the arrow keys to highlight the array in the Array Detail window and press <Enter>. The Array Detail window appears. NOTE: T o delete an array , use the arrow ke y s to select the array and press <D>. 10 P ress <Enter> to return to t[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 47 T ransferring Information to a New Computer Y ou can use your operating system "wizards" to help you transfer files and other data from one computer to another—for example, from an old computer to a new computer . F or instructions, see the following section that corresponds to the operating system[...]

48 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer , and then click Next . 6 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method of your prefer ence. 7 On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer , then click Next . 8 After the information has been [...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 49 There ar e two ways to access the W indows Easy T ransfer wizard: 1 When Vista setup is completed, you will see the V ista W elcome Center . One icon in the W elcome Center is T ransfer Files and Settings . Click this icon to start W indows Easy T ransfer . 2 If the W elcome Center dialog box has been closed, [...]

50 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer Network Setup Wizard The Microsoft ® Wi n d o w s ® operating system prov ides a Network Setup W izard to guide you through the proce ss of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between comput ers in a home or small office. Wi n d ow s X P : 1 Click Start , point to All P rograms → Accessories[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 51 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 high- speed Inter[...]

52 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP , perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the op erating system your computer is using. NOTE: If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem[...]

Setting Up and Using Y our Computer 53 3 Under Network and Internet, click Connect to the Internet . The Connect to the Internet window appears. 4 Click either Broadband (PPP oE) or Dial-up , depending on how you want to connect: •C h o o s e Broadband if you will use a DSL, sa tellite modem, cable TV modem, or Bluetooth wireless technology conne[...]

54 Setting Up and Using Y our Computer book.book Page 54 Wednesday , April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

Solving Problems 55 Solving Problems CAUTION: Some of the parts described in this chapter may be replaceable by a certified service technician only and are not custom replaceable. T roubleshooting T ips F ollow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer: • If you added or removed a part befo r e the problem started, review the installation pr[...]

56 Solving Problems Drive 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 M ICROSOFT ® W INDOWS ® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Wi n d o w s X P: Click Start and click My Computer . Wi nd o w s Vi s t a ® : Click Start and click Computer . If the[...]

Solving Problems 57 CD and DVD drive problems NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibrati on is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD or DVD. NOTE: Because of different regi ons worldwide and differe nt disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives. Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive A DJUST T[...]

58 Solving Problems Hard drive problems E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only . The modem does not operate while it is connected to a digi tal telephone network. [...]

Solving Problems 59 C HECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION — C HECK THE TELEPHONE JACK — C ONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — U SE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE — • V erify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem. (The jack has either a green label or a c onnector -shaped icon next to it.) • Ensure t[...]

60 Solving Problems Error Messages If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared. V ERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH W INDOWS — W indows XP: 1 Click Start → Control P anel → P rinters and Other Hardware → Phone and Modem Options → Modems . 2[...]

Solving Problems 61 A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS : / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in filenames. A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND — The program that you ar e trying to open is missing an essential file. T o remove and the n r e install the program: Wi nd o w s ® XP: 1 Click Start → Contr[...]

62 Solving Problems Keyboard Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . 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 [...]

Solving Problems 63 The computer stops responding NOTICE: Y ou might lose data if you are unab le to perform an operating sy stem shutdown. A program stops responding A program crashes repeatedly NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD. T URN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you ar e unable to[...]

64 Solving Problems A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft ® Windows ® operating sy stem A solid blue screen appears R UN THE P ROGRAM C OMPATIBILITY W IZARD — W indows XP: The P r ogram Compatibility W izard configur es a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non- XP operating system environments. 1 Click Start → All P[...]

Solving Problems 65 Other software problems C HECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION — • Ensure that the program is compatible wi th the operating system installed on your computer . • Ensure that your computer meets the mi nimum hardware r equirements needed to run the software. S[...]

66 Solving Problems Media Card Reader Problems N O DRIVE LETTER IS ASSIGNED — When Microsoft ® W indows ® Operating System detects the Media Card Reader , the device is automatically assigned a drive letter as the next logical drive after all other physical drives in the system. If the next logical drive after the physical drives is mapped to a[...]

Solving Problems 67 Memory Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . F LEX B AY DEVICE IS D ISABLED — There is a FlexBay disable option in the BIOS setup that appears only when the FlexBay device is installed. If the Fle xBay de vice is physically i[...]

68 Solving Problems Mouse Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . C LEAN THE MOUSE — See "Mouse" on page 179 for in structions on cleaning the mouse. C HECK THE MOUSE CABLE — 1 Remove mouse extension cables, if used, an d connect the m[...]

Solving Problems 69 Network Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . C HECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS — Wi nd o w s ® XP: 1 Click Start , click Control P anel , and then click P rinters and Other Hardware . 2 Click Mouse . 3 Adjust the settings as needed[...]

70 Solving Problems Power Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . C HECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are corr ect and that the network is fun[...]

Solving Problems 71 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 . I F THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER — P ower problem or internal device malfunct[...]

72 Solving Problems C HECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS — • See the printer documentation for cable connection information. • Ensure that the printer cables are secu r ely connected to the printer and the computer (see "Setting Up a P rinter" on page 23). T EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working [...]

Solving Problems 73 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 tr[...]

74 Solving Problems Sound and Speaker Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . No sound from speakers NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 pl ayers overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been li stening to MP3 songs, ensure that you did no[...]

Solving Problems 75 No sound from headphones R EINSTALL THE SOUND DRIVER — See "Manually Reinstalling Drivers" on page 90. R UN THE H ARDWARE T ROUBLESHOOTER — See "Resolving Software and Hardwar e Incompatibilities" on page 91. C HECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted in[...]

76 Solving Problems V ideo and Monitor Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures. If the screen is blank C HECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION — • Ensure that the graphics cable is c[...]

Solving Problems 77 If the screen is difficult to read C HECK THE MONITOR SETTINGS — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagne tizing (degaussing) the monitor , and running the monitor self-test. M OVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE MONITOR — If your speak er system includes a subwoofer , ensu[...]

78 Solving Problems book.book Page 78 Wednesday , April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 79 T roubleshooting T ools Power Lights CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . The power button light (b i-color LED) located on the front of the computer illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate differ ent states: • If [...]

80 T r oubleshooting T ool s • If the power light is blinking amber , the computer is receiving electrical power , a device might be malfun ctioning or incorrectly installed. – Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 112). – Remove and then reinstall any car ds (see "Cards" on page 116). – Remo[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 81 5 Real time clock failure. P ossible battery failure or motherboard failur e. 1. Replace the battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 144). 2. If the problem persists, contact Dell. 4 R AM Read/W rite failure. 1. Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requir ements exist (see "M[...]

82 T r oubleshooting T ool s Sy stem Messages NOTE: If the message you received is not listed in the table, see the documentation for either the operating sy stem or the pr ogram that was running when the message appeared. A LERT ! P REVIOUS ATTEMPTS AT BOOTING THIS SY STEM HAVE FAILED AT CHECKPOINT [ NNNN ]. F OR HELP IN RESOLVING THIS PROBLEM , P[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 83 N O BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE — No bootable partition on HDD or Not a bootable floppy in floppy driver , or HDD/Floppy ca ble loose, or No bootable device exists. • If the floppy drive is your boot device, ensu re that a bootable floppy disk is in the drive. • If the har d drive is your boot device, ensure that the cabl[...]

84 T r oubleshooting T ool s Dell Diagnostics CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . When to Use the Dell Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your computer , perform the checks in L ockups and Software P roblems (see "Lockups and Software P ro[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 85 Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media 1 Insert the 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 ®[...]

86 T r oubleshooting T ool s 3 If a problem is encountered during a te st, a message appears with an error code and a description of the proble m. W rite down the error code and problem description and see "Getting Help" on page 183. NOTE: The Service T ag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell, t[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 87 5 When the tests are complete, close th e test scr een to return to the Main Menu screen. T o exit the Dell Diagnostics and r estart the computer , close the Main Menu screen. 6 Remove the Drivers and Utilities media (if applicable). Drivers What Is a Driver? A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer [...]

88 T r oubleshooting T ool s Wi n d ow s Vi s t a ® : 1 Click Start and right-click Computer . 2 Click P roperties → Device Manager . NOTE: The User Account Control (located to the left under Ta s k s window) may appear . If you are an admini strator on the computer , click Continue ; otherwise, contact your ad ministrator to continue. Scroll do[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 89 W indows Vista: 1 Click Start and right-click Computer . 2 Click P roperties → Device Manager . NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrator on the computer , click Continue ; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager . 3 Right-click the device for which the new [...]

90 T r oubleshooting T ool s 5 At the W elcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next . NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media display s drivers only for hardware that came installed in your computer . If you installe d additional hardware, the drivers for the new ha rdware might not be displayed by the Drivers and Utilities media. If those drivers ar[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 91 W indows Vista: 1 Click Start and right-click Computer . 2 Click P roperties → Device Manager . NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear . If you are an administrator on the computer , click Continue ; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager . 3 Double-click the type of device for which[...]

92 T r oubleshooting T ool s Wi n d ow s Vi s t a ® : T o start the Help and Support: 1 Click Start and click Help and Support. 2 Under F ind an answer , click T roubleshooting . 3 Select the option that best desc ribes the problem and follow the troubleshooting steps. NOTE: If you do not find the answer in the items categorized in T roubleshootin[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 93 Using Microsoft Windows Sy stem Restore The W indows operating sy stems provide a System Restore option which allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardwar e, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating st[...]

94 T r oubleshooting T ool s Y ou can also manually create a r estore point from the W indows Vista Back Up and Restore Center . There ar e two ways to get to the W indows Vista Backup and Restore Center : 1 Click Show all 14 items below the Connect to the Internet icon in the W elcome C enter . Click Back Up and Restore Center icon. 2 Click Start [...]

T roubleshooting T ools 95 5 Click Next . The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restor e finishes collecting data, then the computer restarts. 6 After the computer restarts, click OK . W indows Vista: 1 Click Start , point to All P rograms → Maintenance → and then click Back Up and Restore Center . 2 In the T asks list, click Rep[...]

96 T r oubleshooting T ool s Windows XP: Dell PC Restore 1 T urn on the computer . During the boot process, a blue bar with www .dell.com appears at the top of the screen. 2 Immediately upon seeing the blue bar , press <Ctrl><F11>. If you do not press <Ctrl><F11> in time, let the computer finish starting, and then restart th[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 97 4 T o access the recovery options, log on as a local user . T o access the command prompt, type administrator in the User name field, then click OK . 5 Click Dell F actory Image Restore . NOTE: Depending upon your configurati on, you may need to select Dell Factory T ools, then Dell Factory Image Restore. The Dell F actor[...]

98 T r oubleshooting T ool s 3 Double-click the filename DSRIRRemv2.exe . NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator , a message appears stating that you must log on as administrator . Click Quit , and then log on as a local administrator . NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer’ s hard drive, a message app[...]

T roubleshooting T ools 99 T o reinstall W indows, yo u need the following items: •D e l l ™ Operating System CD • Drivers and Utilities media NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media contains drivers tha t were installed during assembly of the computer . Use the Drivers and Utilities media to load any required drivers. Depending on the region f[...]

100 T r oubleshooting T ool s book.book Page 100 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 101 Removing and Installing Parts CAUTION: T o guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, al way s unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover . CAUTION: Do not operate your computer w ith any cover(s) (including computer covers, bezels, f[...]

102 Removing and Installing Parts T urning Off Y our Computer NOTICE: T o avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you tu rn off your computer . Wi n d ow s ® XP: 1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. 2 Click Start → T urn Off Computer → Tu r n o f f . 3 Ensure that the computer a[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 103 NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its pull-tab, not on the cable itself. Some cables have connectors with locki ng tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cab le, press in on the locking tabs befo re you disconnect the cable. As you pull conn ectors apart, keep them ev enly aligne[...]

104 Removing and Installing Parts 3 Remove the two screws securing the co ver , using a flat-blade screwdriver . 4 Release the computer cover by pulling it away from the front of the computer and lifting it up. 5 Set the cover aside in a secure location. Removing the Support Bracket CAUTION: Before you begin any of the pro cedures in this section, [...]

Removing and Installing Parts 105 4 Remove any cable(s) attached to the support bracket. 5 Pivot the support brack et and lift it off the hinge tabs. 6 Set it aside in a secure location. 1 support bracket 2 card r etention bracket 3 card r etention release lever 1 2 3 book.book Page 105 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

106 Removing and Installing Parts Inside V iew of Y our Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . 1 power supply 2 hard d rive 3 front I/O panel 4 floppy drive or Media Card Reader (optional) 5 CD or DVD drive 6 chassis fan 1 2 6 5 4 3 book.book Page [...]

Removing and Installing Parts 107 Sy stem Board Components 2 4 20 13 19 21 10 12 3 15 22 18 16 24 26 30 5 8 9 11 17 25 27 28 29 6 7 14 23 31 1 book.book Page 107 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

108 Removing and Installing Parts 1 power for cpu (A TX_CPU) 2 processor socket (CPU) 3 processor fan connector (CPU_F AN) 4 memory module connectors (DIMM_2) 5 memory module connectors (DIMM_1) 6 memory module connectors (DIMM_4) 7 memory module connectors (DIMM_3) 8 main power connector (A TX_POWER) 9 floppy drive connector (FLOPPY) 10 serial A T[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 109 Power Supply DC Connector Pin Assignments DC Power Connector P1 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 book.book Page 109 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

110 Removing and Installing Parts Pin Number Signal name Wire Color Wire Size 13 . 3 V O r a n g e 2 0 A W G 23 . 3 V O r a n g e 2 0 A W G 3 R TN Black 20 A WG 4 5 V Red 20 A WG 5 R TN Black 20 A WG 6 5 V Red 20 A WG 7 R TN Black 20 A WG 8 POK Gray 22 AWG 9 5 V A UX Purple 20 A WG 10 +12 V Y ellow 20 A WG 11 +12 V Y ellow 20 A WG 12 3.3 V Orange 2[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 111 DC Power Connector P2 DC Power Connectors P3, P5, and P6 DC Power Connectors P4 Pin Number Signal Name 18-AWG Wire 1G N D B l a c k 2G N D B l a c k 3 +12 V ADC Y ellow 4 +12 V ADC Y ellow Pin Number Signal name 18-A WG Wire 1 +3.3 VDC Orange 2 GND Black 3+ 5 V D C R e d 4 GND Black 5 +12 VBDC White 3 1 4 2 book.bo[...]

112 Removing and Installing Parts Memory Y ou can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. Y our computer supp orts DDR2 memory . F o r additional information on the type of memory supported by your computer , see "Memory" on page 167. NOTICE: Do not install ECC or buffered me mory modules. On ly unb[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 113 NOTICE: If you remove your origin al memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep the m separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do n ot pair an original memory module with a ne w memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not [...]

114 Removing and Installing Parts 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on page 101. 2 P ress the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector . 3 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector . 1 memory connector farthest from processor (DIMM_2) 2 securing clips (2) 3 connector 1 cu[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 115 NOTICE: T o avoid damage to the memory mo dule, press the mo dule straight down into the connector while y ou apply equal force to ea ch end of the module. 4 Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position. If you insert the module correctly , the securing clips snap into the cutouts at ea[...]

116 Removing and Installing Parts 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on page 101. 2 P ress out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector . 3 Grasp the module at the end of the board and lift up. 4 Replace the PCI Express x16 car d (see "Cards" on page 116). Cards CAUTION: Before you begin any of [...]

Removing and Installing Parts 117 Installing a PCI/PCI Express Card 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on page 101. 2 Remove the computer cover (see "R emoving the Computer Cover" on page 103). 3 Release the card r etention bracket by lifti ng the card r etention release lever up. 4 Remove the support bracket (see [...]

118 Removing and Installing Parts 7 P repare the car d for installation. See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer . CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the comp uter when they are connected to a networ k.T o guard [...]

Removing and Installing Parts 119 10 Place the card in the connector and pr e ss down firmly . Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot. 11 F ix the support bracket and then pr ess down the card retention brack et to seat it on its slot ensuring that: • The guide clamp is aligned with the guide notch. • The tops of all cards and filler [...]

120 Removing and Installing Parts 12 Connect any cables that should be attached to the card. See the documentation for the card for information about the car d’s cable connections. NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or be hind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing proper ly or cause damage to the e[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 121 14 If you installed a sound card: a Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 172), go to Onboard Devices and select Integrated Audio , and then change the setting to Off . b Connect external audio devices to the sound car d’s connectors. Do not connect external audio devices to the microphone, spe[...]

122 Removing and Installing Parts 6 If you are r emoving the card permanen tly , install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening. NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the computer . The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer . 7 F ix the card r etention b[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 123 Bezel CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . CAUTION: T o guard against electrical shock, lac eration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, al way s unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before openi[...]

124 Removing and Installing Parts Replacing the Bezel 1 Align and insert the bottom bezel tabs into the front panel hinges. 2 Rotate the bezel toward the computer until it snaps into place on the front panel. Drives Y our computer supports a combination of these devices: • Up to two serial A T A hard drives • One optional floppy drive or an opt[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 125 Recommended Drive Cable Connections • Connect serial A T A hard drives to connectors labeled "SA T A0" or "SA T A1" on the system board. • Connect serial A T A CD or DVD drives to connectors labeled "SA T A2" or "SA T A3" on the system board. Connecting Drive Cables When [...]

126 Removing and Installing Parts Drive Interface Connectors The drive cable connectors are k eyed for correct insertion. Properly align the cable connector key on the cable and the drive befor e connecting. Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables When connecting and disconnecting a s erial A T A data cable, disconnect the cable using the pull-ta[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 127 Removing a Hard Drive 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on page 101. 2 Remove the computer cover (see "R emoving the Computer Cover" on page 103). 3 Remove the support bracket (see "Removing the Support Brack et" on page 104). 4 Disconnect the power and data cables from [...]

128 Removing and Installing Parts 8 Replace the support bracket (see "R eplacing the Support Brack et" on page 164). 9 Replace the computer cover (see "R eplacing the Computer Cover" on page 165). 10 Connect computer and other devices to an electrical outlet. Installing a Hard Drive 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 129 9 Check all cables to be certain that they are properly connected and firmly seated. 10 Replace the support bracket (see "Rep lacing the Support Brack et" on page 164). 11 Replace the computer cover (see "Rep lacing the Computer Cover" on page 165). NOTICE: T o connect a network cabl e, first pl[...]

130 Removing and Installing Parts 8 Connect the data cable to the system board. 9 Slide the second hard drive in to the second har d drive bay . 10 Install the first hard drive (see "In stalling a Har d Drive" on page 128). 11 Check all cables to be certain that they are properly connected and firmly seated. 12 Replace the support bracket[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 131 Floppy Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . CAUTION: T o guard against electrical shock, lac eration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, al way s unplug your computer from the electrical outlet befor[...]

132 Removing and Installing Parts 1 floppy drive 2 spring clamp (2) 3 CD or DVD drive 1 screws (2) 2 spring clamp (2) 3 floppy drive 4 Fle xBay drive cage * Not present on all computers. 2 3 *1 2 3 1 4 book.book Page 132 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 133 8 Remove the two screws holding the flo ppy drive in the Fle xBay drive cage. 9 Lift the floppy drive to separate it from the FlexBay drive cage. 10 Slide the FlexBay drive cage in the Fl e xBay slot till it snaps in place. 11 Replace the CD or D VD drive (see "Installing a CD or D VD Drive" on page 143).[...]

134 Removing and Installing Parts 8 Align the two screw holes on the floppy drive with the Fle xBay drive cage. 9 Tighten the two scr ews to secure the floppy drive in the FlexBay drive cage. 10 Slide the FlexBay drive cage along with the floppy drive in the Fle xBay slot till it snaps in place. 1 floppy drive 2 screws (2) 3 spring clamp (2) 4 notc[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 135 11 Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive. 12 Connect the other end of the data cable to the connector labeled "FLOPPY" on the system board (see "System Boar d Components" on page 107) and route the cable through the clip on the shroud. 13 Check all cable connections, and fo ld cab[...]

136 Removing and Installing Parts 17 Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on. See the documentation that came wi th the drive for instructions on installing any software r equired for drive operation. 18 Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 172) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive op[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 137 NOTE: T o comply with FCC regulati ons, it is recommended tha t you replace the FlexBay drive insert whenever the fl oppy drive is removed from the computer . Media Card Reader CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . CAUTION[...]

138 Removing and Installing Parts 7 Remove the two screws holding the flo ppy drive in the floppy drive cage. 8 Lift the Media Card Reader to separa te it from the Fle xBay drive cage. 1 Media Card Reader 2 spring clamp 3 CD or DVD drive 1 screws (2) 2 spring clamp (2) 3 Media Card Reader 4 FlexBay drive cage 2 3 *1 * Not present on all computers. [...]

Removing and Installing Parts 139 9 Slide the FlexBay drive cage in the Fl e xBay slot till it snaps in place. 10 Replace the CD or D VD drive. (see "Installing a CD or DVD Drive" on page 143). 11 Reinstall the FlexBay drive insert (see "Replacing the Fle xBay Drive Insert" on page 136). 12 Replace the bezel (see "Replac in[...]

140 Removing and Installing Parts 8 Place the Media Card Reader in the Fle xBay drive cage and slide it towards the cage notch to align the cage notch with the notch holes in the floppy drive. 9 Align the two screw holes on the flo ppy drive with the Fle xBay drive cage. 10 Tighten the two scr ews to secure the floppy drive in the FlexBay drive cag[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 141 NOTE: Ensure that the Media Card Reader is instal led before the FlexBay cable is connected. 12 Connect the FlexBay USB cable to the back of the Media Car d Reader and to the internal USB connector on th e system board (see "System Boar d Components" on page 107). 13 Replace the CD or D VD drive. (see &qu[...]

142 Removing and Installing Parts Removing a CD or DVD Drive 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on page 101. 2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 103). 3 Remove the bezel (see "Removing the Bezel" on page 123). 4 Disconnect the CD or D VD drive data cable from the system [...]

Removing and Installing Parts 143 Installing a CD or DVD Drive 1 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on page 101. 2 Remove the computer cover (see "R emoving the Computer Cover" on page 103). 3 Remove the bezel (see "Removing the Bezel" on page 123). 4 F ix the two shoulder screws on the CD or D VD drive. 5 [...]

144 Removing and Installing Parts 7 Connect the power and data cables to the drive. 8 Connect the data cable to the system board connector on the system board. 9 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 124). 10 Replace the computer cover (see "Replaci ng the Computer Cover" on page 165). NOTICE: T o connect a networ[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 145 T o replace the battery : 1 Record all the scr eens in system setup (see "System Setup" on page 172) so that you can restor e the correct settings in step 11. 2 F ollow the procedures in "Befor e Y ou Begin" on page 101. 3 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on[...]

146 Removing and Installing Parts Power Supply CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide . NOTICE: T o prevent static damage to componen ts inside your computer , discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’ s elec[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 147 8 Slide out the power supply and lift it out. 9 Slide the replacement power supply to war d the back of the computer . 10 Replace and tighten all screws that se cur e the power supply to the back of the computer chassis. CAUTION: Failure to replace and tighten all screws may cause electrical shock as these screws a[...]

148 Removing and Installing Parts 11 Reconnect the DC power cables to the system board and drives. 12 Replace the CD or D VD drive (see "Installing a CD or DVD Drive" on page 143). 13 Secure the har d drive cable, CD or DVD drive data cable, and the front panel ribbon cable to the securing c lip on the side of the power supply . NOTE: Dou[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 149 5 Release the clamp grip from the bracke t projection on the opposite side. CAUTION: Despite having a plastic sh ield, the heat sink assembly may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that it has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it. NOTICE: Strong thermal grease bond may exist between the process[...]

150 Removing and Installing Parts NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you remove the processor . Bending the pins c an permanently damage the processor . 8 Remove the processor from the socket. Leave the release lever extended in the r e lease position so that the socket is ready for the new processor . NOTICE: After removing the pr[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 151 3 Extend the release lever on the sock et fully . NOTICE: Y ou must position the processor correctly in the socket to avoid permanent damage to the processor and the computer when you turn on the computer . 4 Align the pin-1 corner of the processor and socket. NOTICE: T o avoid damage, ensure that the proc essor al[...]

152 Removing and Installing Parts 9 Install the heat sink assembly : a Place the heat sink and fan assembly back onto the heat-sink assembly bracket. b Ensure that the two clamp grips ar e aligned with the two bracket projections. c Hold the heat sink fan assembly in place and rotate the clamp lever 180 degrees clockwise to secur e the heat sink an[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 153 I/O Panel CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . CAUTION: T o guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, al way s unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before op[...]

154 Removing and Installing Parts Installing the I/O Panel 1 Place the I/O panel into the slot. NOTICE: T ake care not to damage the cable connectors and the cab le routing clips when sliding the I/O pan el into the computer . 2 Align and slide the I/O panel clamp in the I/O panel clamp slot. 3 Replace and tighten the screw that secur es the I/O pa[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 155 Processor Fan CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . CAUTION: T o guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, al way s unplug your computer from the electrical outlet befor[...]

156 Removing and Installing Parts 3 Carefully disconnect and move any ca bles that ar e routed over the heat sink assembly . CAUTION: Despite having a plastic shield, the heat sink assembly may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that it has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it. 4 Remove heat sink (see step 6 of "Rem oving [...]

Removing and Installing Parts 157 8 Hold the heat sink firmly in one hand and using moderate force, pull up the fan cover to separate it from the heat sink. NOTICE: Do not touch the fan bl ades to avoid damag e to the fan blades. 9 P u ll outwards the two fan cover grips on one side and slightly lift the fan from the fan cover . 10 P u ll outwards [...]

158 Removing and Installing Parts Installing the Processor Fan NOTICE: When reinstalling the fan, ensure th at you do not pinch the wires that run between the sy stem board and the fan. 1 Align the holes in the fan with the guides on the fan cover . 2 P ress the fan and fan cover together t ill the fan cover grips snap in place. 1 fan 2 fan cover g[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 159 3 Align and press the heat sink and fan assembly till both snap in place. 4 Replace the heat sink assembly (see st ep 9 of "Installing the P rocessor" on page 150). 5 Replace the cables that were r emoved fr om the routing clips on top of the processor fan assembly . 6 Connect the processor fan cable to t[...]

160 Removing and Installing Parts Chassis Fan CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proc edures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide . CAUTION: T o guard against electrical s hock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, alwa y s unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 161 2 Remove the computer cover (see "R emoving the Computer Cover" on page 103). 3 Disconnect the chassis fan cable from the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 107). 4 Loosen and remove the screw securing the chassis fan with the chassis. 5 Slide and pull the chassis fan away from [...]

162 Removing and Installing Parts 6 Connect the chassis fan cable to th e system board (see "System Boar d Components" on page 107). 7 Replace the computer cover (see "R eplacing the Computer Cover" on page 165). Sy stem Board Removing the Sy stem Board CAUTION: T o guard against electrical s hock, laceration by moving fan blade[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 163 Sy stem Board Screws 9 Place the system board that you just r emoved next to the replacement system board to compar e and ensure they ar e identical. 1 screws (8) 2 system board 1 2 book.book Page 163 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]

164 Removing and Installing Parts Installing the Sy stem Board 1 Gently align the board into the chassis and slide it toward the back of the computer . 2 Using the eight screws, secur e the system board to the chassis. 3 Replace the cables that you re moved from the system boar d. 4 Replace the processor and the heat sink assembly (see "Instal[...]

Removing and Installing Parts 165 Replacing the Computer Cover CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide . 1 Ensure that all cables ar e connect ed, and fold cables out of the way . 2 Ensure that no tools or e xtra parts are left inside the computer . 3 [...]

166 Removing and Installing Parts 7 Move the computer to the upright position. NOTICE: T o connect a network cable, first pl ug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer . NOTICE: Ensure that none of the air -ve nts of the sy stem are blocked. 1 computer cover tab 2 slot 3 computer cover 4 screws (2) 3 1 2 4 book.book Pag[...]

Appendix 167 Appendix Specifications Processor P rocessor type AMD™ Athlon™ 64 X2 dual-core processor AMD Athlon 64 processor AMD Sempron™ processor Level 2 (L2) cache Up to 2 MB for Athlon 64 X2 dual-core processor Up to 512 KB for Athlon 64 processor Up to 256 KB for Sempron processors Memory T ype 667-MHz, 800-MHz DDR2 SDR AM Memory connec[...]

168 Appendix Audio T ype Realtec ALC888 (7.1 Channel audio) Expansion Bus Bus type PCI 2.3 PCI Express 1.0A SA T A 1.0 and 2.0 USB 2.0 Bus speed PCI: 133 MB/s PCI Express: x1 slot bidirectional speed - 500 MB/s x16 slot bidirectional speed - 8GB/s SA T A: 1.5 Gbps and 3.0 Gbps USB: 480 Mbps high speed, 12 Mbps full speed, 1.2 Mbps low speed PCI con[...]

Appendix 169 Drives Externally accessible one 3.5-inch drive bay (FlexBay) one 5.25-inch drive bay Internally accessible two 3.5-inch drive bays A vailable devices two 3.5-inch Serial A T A hard drive (internal bay)(one optional) and one 5.25-inch Serial A T A CD-ROM, CD-R W , DVD-ROM, D VD-RW , or combo drive (external bay) floppy drive (optional)[...]

170 Appendix F ront panel audio HDA header one 10-pin connector Pr o c e s s o r one 940-pin connector Memory four 240-pin connectors Po w e r 1 2 V one 4-pin connector Po w e r one 24-pin connector Controls and Lights F ront of computer: Po w e r b u t t o n push button P ower light blue light — Blinking blue in sleep state; solid blue for power[...]

Appendix 171 Power DC power supply : W attage 250 W Maximum heat dissipation 162 W NOTE: Heat dissipation is calculated by using the power supply wattage rating. V oltage (see the safety instructions located in the P roduct Information Guide for important voltage setting information) 115/230 V ac, 50/60 Hz, 6 A/3 A Coin cell battery 3- V CR2032 lit[...]

172 Appendix Sy stem Setup Overview Use System Setup as follows: • T o change the system configuration infor mation after you add, change, or remove any har dware in your computer • T o set or change a user-selectable option such as the user passwor d • T o read the current amount of memo ry or set the type of har d drive installed Before you[...]

Appendix 173 Sy stem Setup Screen The system setup screen displays curr ent or changeable configuration information for your computer . Informatio n on the screen is divided into four areas: the menu at the top, the main wind ow , the Item Help field on the right, and key functions listed on the bottom. Sy stem Setup Options NOTE: Depending on your[...]

174 Appendix Advanced CPU Type Displays the T ype of P rocessor installed in the system. CPU Speed Displays CPU Speed. Cache RAM Displays the amount of Cache RAM available. Frame Buffer Displays the amount of F rame Buffer available. Advanced Chipset Features Displays the V ideo Memory size. Integrated peripherals Displays information about periphe[...]

Appendix 175 Boot Sequence This feature allows you to change the Boot Device P roperty for devices. Option Settings • Bootable Hard Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the hard drive. • Onboard Floppy Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the floppy drive. • Onboard CD-ROM Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the CD dr[...]

176 Appendix 4 P ress the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the item you want to change, and then press <Enter>. 5 P ress the up- and down-arrow keys to select the boot device you want to change, and then press <Enter>. 6 P ress <F10> and then press <Enter> to e xit system setup and resume the boot process. Clearing Forgo[...]

Appendix 177 3 Locate the 3-pin password connector (CLEAR P .W .) on the system board and remove the 2-pin jumper plug from pins 2 and 3 and fix it on pins 1 and 2 and wait for approximately fi ve seconds to clear the password. 4 Remove the 2-pin jumper plug from pi ns 1 and 2 and replace it on pins 2 and 3 to enable the password featur e. 5 Replac[...]

178 Appendix Flashing the BIOS The BIOS may requir e flashing when an update is available or when replacing the system board. 1 T urn on the computer . 2 Locate the BIOS update file for your computer at support.dell.com . 3 Click Download Now to download the file. 4 If the Export Compliance Disclaimer window appears, click Y es, I Accept this Agree[...]

Appendix 179 Cleaning Y our Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the proced ures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide . Computer , Keyboard, and Monitor CAUTION: Before you clean your computer , dis connect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampene[...]

180 Appendix Floppy Drive NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads wi th a swab. Y ou might accidentally misalign the heads, which preve nts the drive from operating. Clean your floppy drive using a commerc ially available cleaning kit. These kits contain pretr eated floppy disks to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation. CD[...]

Appendix 181 Dell provides limited technical supp ort for the computer and any "Dell- installed" software and peripherals 1 . Support for thir d-party software and peripherals is provided by the or iginal manufacturer , including those purchased and/or installed through Dell Software and P eripherals, Readyware, and Custom F actory Integr[...]

182 Appendix This device complies with P art 15 of t he FCC R ules. Operation is subject to the following tw o conditions: 1 This device may not cause harmful interference. 2 This device must accept any interference r eceived, including interference that may cause undesired operation. NOTICE: The FCC regulations provide that ch anges or modificatio[...]

Appendix 183 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 your computer , you can complete the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem: 1 See "T roubleshooting T ools&quo[...]

184 Appendix T o contact Dell's support service, see "Before Y ou Call" on page 186, and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com . DellConnect DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and support associate to access your computer th rough a broadband connection, diagnose[...]

Appendix 185 • Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addr esses apmarketing@dell.com (Asian/P acific countries only) sales_canada@dell.com (Canada only) • Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP) ftp.dell.com Log in as user: anonymous , and use your e-mail address as your passwor d. AutoT ech Service Dell's automated support service—AutoT ech—[...]

186 Appendix Returning Items for W arranty Repair or Credit P repare all items being r eturned, wheth er for repair or credit, as follows: 1 Call Dell to obtain a Return Materi al Authorization Number , and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box. F or the telephone number to call for yo ur region, see "Contacting Dell"[...]

Appendix 187 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 (i f provided by Dell support technician): Operating system and version: Devices: Expansion cards: Are you connected to a network? Y es No Network, version, a[...]

188 Appendix Contacting Dell F or customers in the United States, call 800- WWW .DELL (800.999.3355). NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, yo u can find contact information on your purchase invoice, pa cking slip, bill, or Dell product catalog. Dell provides several online and teleph one-based support and service options. Availab[...]

Glossary 189 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[...]

190 Glossary B battery life span — The length of time (years) duri ng which a portable computer battery is able to be depleted and rechar ged. battery operating time — The length of time (minutes or hours) that a portable computer battery powers the computer . BIOS — basic input/output system — A prog ram (or utility) that serves as an inte[...]

Glossary 191 L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external to the processor or incorporated into the processor architecture. carnet — An international customs document that facilitates temporary imports into foreign countries. Also known as a merchandise passport . CD-R — CD recor dable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be [...]

192 Glossary device — Hardwar e such as a disk drive, printer , or k eyboard 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 193 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[...]

194 Glossary F Fa h r e n h e i t — A temperature measurement scale wher e 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 195 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[...]

196 Glossary IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic path way assigned to a specific device so that the device can communica te with the processor . Each device connection must be assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share the same IRQ assignment, you cannot operate both devices simultaneously . ISP — Internet service provider — A comp[...]

Glossary 197 MB — megabyte — A measurement of data stor age that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB equals 1024 KB. When used to refer to har d drive storage, the term is often rounded to 1,000,000 bytes. MB/sec — megabytes per second — One millio n bytes per second. This measurement is typically used for data transfer ratings. media bay — A ba[...]

198 Glossary N network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its system boa rd, or it may contain a PC Car d with an adapter on it. A network adapte r is also r eferred to as a NIC (network interface controller). NIC — See network adapter . notification area — The section of the W ind[...]

Glossary 199 PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two devices through the processor as part of the data path. pixel — A single point on a display screen. P ixe ls are arranged in rows and columns to create an image. A video r e solution, such as 800 x 600, is expr essed as the number of pixels across by the nu[...]

200 Glossary refresh rate — The frequency , measured in Hz, at which your scr een's horizontal lines are r e charged (sometimes also r eferred to as its vertical frequency ). The higher the refr esh rate, the less video flicker can be seen by the human eye. resolution — The sharpness and clarity of an image produced by a printer or display[...]

Glossary 201 Service T ag — A bar code label on your compute r that identifies your computer when you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service or technical support. setup program — A program that is used to install and configure har dware and software. The setup.ex e or install.exe program comes with mo[...]

202 Glossary SXGA — super -extended graphics array — A video standard for video card s and controllers that supports res olutions up to 1280 x 1024. SXGA+ — super -extended graphics array plus — A video standard for video car ds and controllers that supports res olutions up to 1400 x 1050. system board — The main circuit board in your com[...]

Glossary 203 USB — universal serial bus — A hardwar e inte rface for a low-speed device such as a USB-compatible keyboar d, mouse, joystick, scanner , set of speak ers, printer , broadband devices (DSL and cable modems), imaging devices, or storage devices. Devices are plugged dir ectly in to a 4-pin socket on your computer or in to a multi-por[...]

204 Glossary W W — watt — The measurement of electrical power . One W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt. WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commo nly used to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery . F or example, a 66- WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for 1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours. wallpaper — The background pattern o[...]

Index 205 Index A audio . See sound B battery problems, 55 replacing, 144 beep codes, 80 Bezel, 123 bezel removing, 123 replacing, 124 BIOS, 172 boot sequence about, 175 changing, 175 option settings, 175 booting to a USB device, 175 C cards installing PCI, 117 PCI, 116 removing PCI, 121 slots, 116 types supported, 116 CD/D VD drive installing, 143[...]

206 Index copying D VDs general information, 28 helpful tips, 30 how to , 28 cover removing, 103-104 replacing, 165 D Dell contacting, 183, 188 support policy , 180 support site, 13 Dell Diagnostics, 84 DellConnect, 184 diagnostics beep codes, 80 Dell, 84 documentation End User License Agreement, 11 ergonomics, 11 F inding Information, 11 online, 1[...]

Index 207 F F iles and Settings T ransfer Wi z a r d , 47 F inding Information, 11 Flex Bay drive Media Card Reader , 16 floppy drive installing, 133 removing, 131 H hard drive installing, 128 installing second, 129 problems, 58 removing, 127 hardwar e beep codes, 80 conflicts, 91 Dell Diagnostics, 84 Help and Support Center , 14 help file W indows[...]

208 Index memory installing, 113 problems, 67 messages error , 60 modem problems, 58 monitor blank, 76 clone mode, 35 connect DVI, 33-34 connect TV , 33-34 connect two , 33-34 connect VGA, 33-34 display settings, 35 extended desktop mode, 35 ha rd t o re ad , 77 motherboard. See system board mouse problems, 68 N network Network Setup W izard, 50 pr[...]

Index 209 drives, 5 6 D VD drive, 57 e-mail, 58 error messages, 60 general, 62 hard drive, 58 Internet, 58 key b o ard , 62 Media Card Reader , 66 memory , 67 modem, 58 monitor is blank, 76 monitor is hard to r ead, 77 mouse, 68 network, 69 power , 70 power light conditions, 70 printer , 71 program crashes, 63 program stops r esponding, 63 programs[...]

210 Index specifications audio, 168 computer information, 167 connectors, 169 controls and lights, 170 drives, 169 environmental, 171 expansion bus, 168 memory , 167 physical, 171 power , 171 processor , 167 technical, 167 video , 167 standby mode, 39 Starting the Dell Diagnostics F rom the Drivers and Utilities CD, 85 Starting the Dell Diagnostics[...]

Index 211 W warranty information, 11 W indows Vista Device Driver Rollback, 88 F iles and Settings T ransfer Wi z a r d , 47 Hardwar e T roubleshooter , 91 Help and Support Center , 14 Network Setup W izard, 50 P rogram Compatibility Wi z a r d , 64 scanner , 73 System Restore, 92-93 wizards F iles and Settings T ransfer Wi z a r d , 47 Network Set[...]

212 Index book.book Page 212 Wednesday, April 16, 2008 3:33 PM[...]