Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Documentation for Your Computer Finding Information for Your Computer Technical Specifications System Board Components Cleaning Your Computer About Your Computer Front View Back View Back-Panel Connectors Inside Your Computer Orientations Chassis Stand Cable Cover Mounting Plate Connecting the Power Adapter Computer and Software Problems Solving Problems Advanced Troubleshooting Getting Help Advanced Features LegacySelect Technology Control Manageability Securit
Back to Contents Page Regulatory Notices Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide FCC Notices (U.S.
Class B This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction manual, may cause interference with radio communications.
NOTE: EN 55022 emissions requirements provide for two classifications: l Class A is for typical commercial areas. l Class B is for typical domestic areas. RF INTERFERENCE WARNING: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio frequency (RF) interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures. This Dell device is classified for use in a typical Class B domestic environment.
VCCI Notice (Japan Only) Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) as Class B information technology equipment (ITE). However, the inclusion of certain options can change the rating of some configurations to Class A.
Class A Device Please note that this device has been approved for business purposes with regard to electromagnetic interference. If you find that this device is not suitable for your use, you may exchange it for a nonbusiness-purpose device.
BSMI Notice (Taiwan Only) If you find a or mark on the regulatory label on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, the following section is applicable:
NOM Information (Mexico Only) The following information is provided on the device(s) described in this document in compliance with the requirements of the official Mexican standards (NOM): Exporter: Dell Computer Corporation One Dell Way Round Rock, TX 78682 Importer: Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11° Piso Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F. Ship to: Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V. al Cuidado de Kuehne & Nagel de México S. de R.I. Avenida Soles No. 55 Col.
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Back to Contents Page Warranty and Return Policy Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Dell Computer Corporation ("Dell") manufactures its hardware products from parts and components that are new or equivalent to new in accordance with industry-standard practices. For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Setup and Quick Reference Guide.
Back to Contents Page About Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Front View Back View Back-Panel Connectors Inside Your Computer Orientations Chassis Stand Cable Cover Mounting Plate Connecting the Power Adapter Front View 1 power button Press this button to turn on the computer. NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the computer. Instead, perform a Microsoft® Windows® shutdown.
1 computer cover/hard-drive release button Press this button toward the cover release icon to remove the cover, or press this button toward the hard-drive icon to release the hard drive. 2 back-panel connectors The connectors for your computer. 3 power connector The connector for the power adapter. 4 diagnostic lights See "Diagnostic Lights" for a description of light codes that can help you troubleshoot problems with your computer.
Inside Your Computer CAUTION: Before you remove the computer cover, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." CAUTION: To avoid electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the power adapter before removing the cover. CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
NOTICE: Do not place your monitor on the computer. Use a monitor stand. NOTICE: In a high-vibration environment or when installing the computer overhead, use the optional wall-mount bracket instead of the chassis stand. To order this bracket, contact Dell. NOTICE: To ensure proper ventilation, do not place your computer vertically on a desktop without using the chassis stand (see "Chassis Stand"). NOTICE: To ensure proper ventilation, do not block the cooling vents.
3 mounting slot (for vertical position, upright on a desktop) 4 mounting slot (for horizontal position hanging under a desktop) NOTE: The stand must not be used in the horizontal position on a desktop. Place the computer directly on a desktop. 5 mounting slot (for vertical position, hanging under a surface) To remove the chassis stand, loosen and lift the screw. Hold the screw up while sliding the stand out of the slot.
1 bottom piece of the cable cover 2 security cable slot 3 top piece of the cable cover 1. Attach all the cables to the back panel. 2. To attach the two-piece cable cover, hold the bottom piece of the cable cover and align the four tabs with the four slots on the computer's back panel. 3. Insert the tabs into the slots and slide the piece toward the diagnostic lights (see the illustration) until it is securely positioned. 4.
1. If a security device is installed in the security cable slot, remove the device. 2. Grasp the top piece of the cable cover and slide it to the left until it stops, and then lift it up and away. 3. To remove the bottom piece of the cable cover, while pressing the lever, slide the piece to the left until it stops, and then lift it up and away. Mounting Plate NOTICE: When installing the computer in the hanging orientation, avoid locations where it will be bumped by a user's legs or chair.
1 release lever tab 2 mounting plate slot 3 screw holes (4) 4 solid surface with a 1-inch (2.5 cm) minimum thickness CAUTION: Attach the mounting plate to a solid surface capable of supporting 40 lbs (18.1 kg) hanging weight. 1. 2. 3. 4. Using the four #6 wood screws (0.625 inch; 15.88 mm) provided, attach the mounting plate to a solid surface with a minimum thickness of 1 inch (2.5 cm). Orient the computer and stand under the mounting plate approximately 1 inch (2.
2. While still firmly holding the computer, slide the computer and stand approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm), until it stops. 3. Lower the computer and stand away from the mounting plate. Connecting the Power Adapter 1. 2. Connect the power adapter to the connector on the back of the computer. In order for the connection to be secure, verify that the latch engages completely (a click will be heard or felt). Connect a power cable to the power adapter. NOTICE: The following section applies to Japan only.
Back to Contents Page Advanced Troubleshooting Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Dell Diagnostics Drivers Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP Reinstalling Microsoft Windows 2000 Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Dell Diagnostics When to Use the Dell Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
4. Select the IDE CD-ROM Device option from the CD boot menu. 5. Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears. 6. Type 1 to start the ResourceCD menu. 7. Type 2 to start the Dell Diagnostics. 8. Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer. 9. When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run. Dell Diagnostics Main Menu 1.
Identifying Drivers If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver. Windows XP 1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2. Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance. 3. Click System. 4. In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab. 5. Click Device Manager. 6.
To view a list of all available drivers for your computer, click Drivers in the Topic drop-down menu. To access the help files on the Drivers and Utilities CD, click the question mark button or the Help link at the top of the screen. Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP Before You Reinstall NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.
6. When the Regional and Language Options screen appears, select the settings for your location, and then click Next. 7. Enter your name and organization (optional) in the Personalize Your Software screen and click Next. 8. If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition, at the What's your computer's name window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the name provided) and click Next.
19. Reinstall your virus protection software. Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use Device Manager or the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility. Microsoft® Windows® XP To resolve incompatibilities using Device Manager: 1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2. Click Performance and Maintenance and click System. 3.
FBack to Contents Page Advanced Features Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide LegacySelect Technology Control Manageability Security Password Protection System Setup Booting to a USB Device Jumper Settings Power Button Power Management Hyper-Threading LegacySelect Technology Control LegacySelect technology control offers legacy-full, legacy-reduced, or legacy-free solutions based on common platforms, hard-drive images, and help desk procedures.
Security Chassis Intrusion Detection NOTE: When the setup password is enabled, you must know the setup password before you can reset the Chassis Intrusion setting. This feature detects that the chassis was opened and alerts the user. To change the Chassis Intrusion setting: 1. Enter system setup. 2. Press the down-arrow keys to move to the System Security option. 3. Press to access the System Security option's popup menu. 4. Press the down-arrow key to move to the Chassis Intrusion setting.
1. Enter system setup and verify that Password Status is set to Unlocked. 2. Highlight System Password, and then press the left- or right-arrow key. The option heading changes to Enter Password, followed by an empty 32-character field in square brackets. 3. Type your new system password. You can use up to 32 characters. To erase a character when entering your password, press or the left-arrow key. The password is not case sensitive. Certain key combinations are not valid.
6. Exit system setup. Setup Password Option Settings l Enabled — Does not allow assignment of setup passwords; users must enter a setup password to make changes to system setup l Not Enabled — Allows assignment of setup passwords; password feature is enabled but no password is assigned Assigning a Setup Password The setup password can be the same as the system password. NOTE: If the two passwords are different, the setup password can be used as an alternate system password.
5. Enter system setup and verify that Setup Password is set to Disabled. 6. Exit system setup. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." 7. Remove the computer cover. NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer.
Cycles through the options in a field. In many fields, you can also type the appropriate value. Scrolls through help information. Enters the selected field's popup options menu. spacebar or In the selected field's popup options menu, cycles through the options in a field. Exits system setup without restarting the computer and returns the computer to the boot routine. Exits system setup and restarts the computer, implementing any changes you have made. Resets the selected option to the default.
1. Turn on or restart your computer. 2. When = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press to access the boot menu. If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the Start menu and try again. NOTE: To ensure an orderly computer shutdown, consult the documentation that came with your operating system. The Boot Device Menu appears, listing all available boot devices.
NOTE: This is effective when the USB Controller is set to On. l l l l On — USB emulation continues when control is passed to the operating system. Off — USB emulation ends when control is passed to the operating system. No BOOT — USB emulation continues, but USB boot devices are disabled. USB Controller — The settings are On (default) or Off. NOTE: USB devices will not be detected and supported in the operating system if the USB Controller is set to Off.
The acoustics mode field may contain the following options: Quiet — The hard drive operates in its quietest setting. Performance — The hard drive operates at its maximum speed. l l NOTE: Switching to Performance mode may cause the drive to be noisier, but its performance is not affected. Bypass (default) — Your computer does not test or change the current acoustics mode setting. Suggested — The hard drive operates at the level suggested by the hard drive manufacturer.
RTCRST Real-time clock reset jumpered unjumpered Power Button NOTICE: To turn off your computer, perform an orderly computer shutdown when possible. You can use the ACPI feature to configure the function of the Microsoft Windows 2000, and Windows XP operating systems.
l Standby–In this sleep state, power is reduced or turned off for most components, including the cooling fans. However, system memory remains active. This state is not supported by Windows NT 4.0. NOTE: All components installed in the computer must support this feature and have the appropriate drivers loaded to enter standby. For more information, see the manufacturer's documentation for each component.
Back to Contents Page Battery Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. A coin-cell battery maintains computer configuration, date, and time information.
10. Replace the cable cover (if used). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 11. Connect your computer to the adapter cable and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. After you replace the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next computer start-up: ALERT! Cover was previously removed. 12.
Back to Contents Page Cleaning Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor Mouse Floppy Drive CDs and DVDs CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, read the safety instructions in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water.
2. With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disc. For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also purchase commercial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust, fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are safe to use on DVDs.
Back to Contents Page Module Bay Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Installing a Device When Your Computer Is Turned Off Installing a Device When Your Computer Is Running Microsoft Windows® XP Installing a Device When Your Computer Is Running Windows 2000 You can install a Dell™ portable device such as a floppy drive, CD/DVD drive or second hard drive in the module bay. Your Dell computer ships with either a floppy drive or an airbay (filler blank) installed in the module bay.
1 module bay 2 airbay 3 module eject button 3. Slide the device into the module bay. 4. If desired, you may lock the device in the module bay by moving the module locking switch to the locked position. 5. Replace the hard-drive door. To remove a floppy drive, follow steps 1 and 2. Installing a Device When Your Computer Is Running Microsoft Windows® XP To install a CD/DVD device or second hard drive: 1. Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar. 2.
6. If desired, you may lock the device in the module bay by moving the module locking switch to the locked position. 7. Replace the hard-drive door. 8. When the operating system recognizes the new device, click Close.
Back to Contents Page Replacing the Computer Cover Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide 1. Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer. 2. Replace the cover: 1 a. Lower and align the cover with the two lines on the metal computer frame. a. Slide the cover until you hear or feel it click into place. alignment lines NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack, and then plug it into the computer. 3.
Back to Contents Page Removing the Computer Cover Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. 1. 2. Shut down the computer through the Start menu.
Back to Contents Page Ergonomic Computing Habits Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury. CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain. For comfort and efficiency, observe the following ergonomic guidelines when setting up and using your computer workstation: l Position your computer so that the monitor and keyboard are directly in front of you as you work.
Switzerland: International Organization for Standardization, 1992.
Back to Contents Page Finding Information for Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide What are you looking for? l l l l A diagnostic program for my computer Drivers for my computer My computer documentation My device documentation Find It Here Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD) Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer when shipped from Dell. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers, run the Dell Diagnostics, or access your documentation.
3. 4. l How to reinstall my operating system Click the topic that describes your problem. Follow the instructions on the screen. Operating System CD After you reinstall your operating system using the Operating System Reinstallation CD, use the Drivers and Utilities CD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer. The product key for your operating system is located on your computer.
Back to Contents Page Getting Help Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Technical Assistance Problems With Your Order Product Information Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Before You Call Contacting Dell Technical Assistance If you need help with a technical problem, Dell is ready to assist you. CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer covers, first disconnect the computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets. 1. Complete the procedures in "Solving Problems." 2.
l Electronic Information Service info@dell.com AutoTech Service Dell's automated technical support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and desktop computers. When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your questions. The AutoTech service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also access this service through the technical support service.
Diagnostics Checklist Name: Date: Address: Phone number: Service Tag (bar code on the back of the computer): Express Service Code: Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician): Operating system and version: Devices: Expansion cards: Are you connected to a network? Yes No Network, version, and network adapter: Programs and versions: See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system's start-up files.
Home/Small Business Customer Care City Code: 1 Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care Home/Small Business Technical Support Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support Switchboard 01 795 67603 0660 8056 01 795 67604 0660 8779 01 491 04 0 Bahamas General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6818 Barbados General Support 1-800-534-3066 Belgium (Brussels) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Country Code: 32 E-mail: tech_be@dell.
Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts toll-free: 800 858 2621 Colombia General Support 980-9-15-3978 Costa Rica General Support 0800-012-0435 Czech Republic (Prague) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com Technical Support 02 22 83 27 27 Country Code: 420 Customer Care 02 22 83 27 11 City Code: 2 Fax 02 22 83 27 14 TechFax 02 22 83 27 28 Switchboard 02 22 83 27 11 Denmark (Copenhagen) International Access Code: 00 Website: support.
Grenada General Support Guatemala General Support 1-800-999-0136 Guyana General Support toll-free: 1-877-270-4609 Hong Kong Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™) International Access Code: 001 Country Code: 852 India Ireland (Cherrywood) International Access Code: 16 Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell Precision™) Customer Service (non-technical, post-sales issues) 296 93191 800 93 8291 toll-free: 800 96 4109 Large Corporate Accounts HK toll-free: 800 96 4108 Large Corp
Fax City Code: 2 Latin America Switchboard 2194-6202 2194-6000 Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4093 Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-3619 Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service) (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-3883 Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4397 SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4600 or 512 728-3772 Luxembourg International Access Code: 00 Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: tech_be@dell.
Country Code: 64 Home and Small Business 0800 446 255 Government and Business 0800 444 617 Sales 0800 441 567 Fax Nicaragua General Support Norway (Lysaker) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Country Code: 47 0800 441 566 001-800-220-1006 E-mail Support (portable computers): nor_nbk_support@dell.com E-mail Support (desktop computers): nor_support@dell.com E-mail Support (servers): nordic_server_support@dell.
Fax 902 118 539 Corporate Technical Support Customer Care Sweden (Upplands Vasby) International Access Code: 00 Country Code: 46 902 100 130 902 118 546 Switchboard 91 722 92 00 Fax 91 722 95 83 Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: swe_support@dell.com E-mail Support for Latitude and Inspiron: Swe-nbk_kats@dell.com E-mail Support for OptiPlex: Swe_kats@dell.com City Code: 8 E-mail Support for Servers: Nordic_server_support@dell.
011 Country Code: 1 Consumer (Home and Home Office) Technical Support toll-free: 1-800-624-9896 Customer Service toll-free: 1-800-624-9897 DellNet™ Service and Support toll-free: 1-877-Dellnet (1-877-335-5638) Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-695-8133 Financial Services website: www.dellfinancialservices.
Back to Contents Page Glossary Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W X Z Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included 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.
CD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read data from CDs. CD player — The software used to play music CDs. The CD player displays a window with buttons that you use to play a CD. CD-R — CD recordable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be recorded only once onto a CD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over. CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten).
EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives and CD drives. EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical interference caused by electromagnetic radiation. ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency requirements that decrease the overall consumption of electricity. EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector design that provides bidirectional data transmission. ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of static electricity.
I IC — Industry Canada — The Canadian regulatory body responsible for regulating emissions from electronic equipment, much as the FCC does in the United States. IC — integrated circuit — A semiconductor wafer, or chip, on which thousands or millions of tiny electronic components are fabricated for use in computer, audio, and video equipment. IDE — integrated device electronics — An interface for mass storage devices in which the controller is integrated into the hard drive or CD drive.
modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, and internal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail. module bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module. monitor — The high-resolution TV-like device that displays computer output.
down your computer. readme file — A text file included with a software package or hardware product. Typically, readme files provide installation information and describe new product enhancements or corrections that have not yet been documented. read-Only — Data and/or files you can view but cannot edit or delete. A file can have read-only status if: l l It resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
TAPI — telephony application programming interface — Enables Windows programs to operate with a wide variety of telephony devices, including voice, data, fax, and video. text editor — A program used to create and edit files that contain only text; for example, Windows Notepad uses a text editor. Text editors do not usually provide word wrap or formatting functionality (the option to underline, change fonts, and so on).
Back to Contents Page Hard Drive Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the power supply before removing the hard drive. CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components.
12. 13. If your replacement drive is not attached to a metal sled: a. While holding the drive that you are replacing, remove the screws that hold the drive to the sled. b. Attach the replacement drive to the sled and replace the screws as shown in the illustration. Slide the new drive onto the plastic door. NOTICE: Four pins on the hard drive connector do not have corresponding holes on the cable connector. Use care when attaching the cable so that the drive pins are not bent or broken. 14.
1 drive connector 2 drive cable 15. Slide the drive into the drive bay and lower the hard-drive door to lock into place. 16. Replace the cable cover (if used). 17. Attach the computer to the mounting plate (if used). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack, and then plug it into the computer. 18. Connect your computer to the power adapter and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Back to Contents Page Memory Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Memory Installation Guidelines Installing Memory Removing Memory Memory Installation Guidelines For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, look under "Memory" in the Technical Specifications section. NOTICE: Before you install new memory modules, download the most recent BIOS for your computer from the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
6. Open the computer cover. NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components. 7. Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
14. The computer detects that the new memory does not match the existing configuration information and generates the following message: The amount of system memory has changed. Strike the F1 key to continue, F2 to run the setup utility 15. Press to enter system setup and check the value for System Memory. The computer should have changed the value of System Memory to reflect the newly installed memory capacity, speed, and mode (single or dual). Verify that the information is correct.
Back to Contents Page Microprocessor Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. 1. 2. Shut down the computer through the Start menu.
11. Remove the heat sink. a. 1 Remove the two securing brackets, if present, by pressing the tabs together and lifting the brackets up. tabs (two on each securing bracket) 2 securing brackets (2) b. Remove the memory module (see "Removing Memory") closest to the heat sink. c. Press the lever on the retention base until the heat sink is released. 1 heat sink 2 retention base 3 lever d. Gently lift the heat sink from the microprocessor.
1 release lever 2 microprocessor 3 socket NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer. NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you unpack the microprocessor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the microprocessor. 13. Unpack the new microprocessor. If any of the pins on the microprocessor appear to be bent, contact Dell (see "Getting Help") for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer. If you are installing a microprocessor replacement kit from Dell, return the microprocessor to Dell in the same package in which your replacement kit was sent. 18. Place one end of the heat sink under the tab on the retention base on the side opposite the lever (see the illustration).
Back to Contents Page CAUTION: Safety Instructions Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide General When Using Your Computer When Working Inside Your Computer Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge Ergonomic Computing Habits Battery Disposal Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage.
¡ A fixed-voltage power supply — Computers with a fixed-voltage power supply do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and operate at only one voltage (see the regulatory label on the outside of the computer for its operating voltage). ¡ An auto-sensing voltage circuit — Computers with an auto-sensing voltage circuit do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and automatically detect the correct operating voltage.
l Handle all electrostatic sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads. Ergonomic Computing Habits CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury. CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain. For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in "Ergonomic Computing Habits" when setting up and using your computer.
Back to Contents Page Solving Problems Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Beep Codes Keyboard Problems Diagnostic Lights Memory Problems System Lights Mouse Problems Battery Problems Network Problems Drive Problems Power Problems Repairing a Wet Computer Printer Problems Dropped or Damaged Computer Serial or Parallel Device Problems E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Sound and Speaker Problems Error Messages System Board Problems General Problems Video and Monitor Problems Bee
Diagnostic Lights To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "A," "B," "C," and "D" on the back panel. The lights can be yellow or green. When the computer starts normally, the patterns or codes on the lights change as the boot process completes. If the POST portion of system boot completes successfully, all four lights display solid green.
yellow green yellow green yellow green reinstall one memory module (if the computer supports a single module), and then restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, move the memory module to a different connector and restart the computer. Continue until you have identified a faulty connector or reinstalled all modules without error. Memory modules are detected, but a memory configuration or compatibility error exists. yellow Other failure has occurred.
Replace the battery — If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery. If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell. Drive Problems Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks. Floppy drive problems Test the drive — l l Insert another disk to eliminate the possibility that the original floppy disk is defective.
Clean the disc — Use a commercially available cleaning kit. Problems writing to a CD-RW drive Close other programs — The CD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before writing to the CD-RW. DVD drive problems NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.
Dropped or Damaged Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." Check the card and cable connections — 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer cover. Check all card connections in the computer, and reseat any loose cards.
"Hard drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions. Bad command or file name — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, have put spaces in the proper place, and have used the correct pathname. Bad error-correction code (ECC) on disk read — The floppy or hard drive controller detected an uncorrectable read error. See "Floppy drive problems" or "Hard drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions. Controller has failed — The hard drive or the associated controller is defective.
troubleshooting suggestions. Memory tests terminated by keystroke — A keystroke interrupted the memory test. Restart the computer to rerun the test. No boot device available — The computer cannot find the floppy disk or hard drive. l l l If the floppy drive is your boot device, ensure that a bootable floppy disk is in the drive. If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.
to turn on the computer. You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. A program stops responding End the program — Windows® XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT® 1. 2. 3. 4. Press simultaneously. Click Applications. Click the program that is no longer responding. Click End Task. Windows 98 1. 2. 3. Press simultaneously. Click the program that is no longer responding. Click End Task.
access to technical support through e-mail. Call Dell — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell Support website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance. General hardware problems If your computer exhibits one or more of the following symptoms, a device conflict may exist: l Your computer locks up, particularly while using a specific device. l A recently added device does not work. l Memory parity errors occur on parity-enabled computers.
Mouse Problems Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks. Restart the computer — 1. 2. 3. Simultaneously press to display the Start menu. Type u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn Off, and then press . After the computer turns off, press the power button to restart the computer. Check the mouse cable — l l Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins.
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks. Adjust the Power Properties — Your computer may be in standby or hibernate mode. For information on power conservation modes, see your operating system documentation. If the power light is green and the computer is not responding — See "Diagnostic Lights." If the power light is blinking green — The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse to resume normal operation.
Windows 98 1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. 2. Click Properties, and then select the Details tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). For a USB printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB. Reinstall the printer driver — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities.
Check for interrupt request conflicts — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities." No sound from headphones Check the headphone cable connection — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector. Adjust the Windows 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.
Check the monitor settings — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test. Move the subwoofer away from the monitor — If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the monitor.
Back to Contents Page Technical Specifications Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Microprocessor Ports Memory Key Combinations Computer Information Controls and Lights Audio Power Video Physical Expansion Bus Environmental Drives Microprocessor Microprocessor type Level 1 (L1) cache Level 2 (L2) cache Intel® Pentium® 4 and Celeron® microprocessors. Design provides for future processor upgrades. Supported processor upgrades are available from Dell.
Video DVI-I connector on the back I/O panel Integrated network adapter RJ45 connector on the back I/O panel; 10/100/1000 PS/2-style keyboard 6-pin mini-DIN on the back I/O panel PS/2-compatible mouse 6-pin mini-DIN on the back I/O panel USB four USB 2.
Storage 0.5 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1 octave/min Maximum shock: Operating bottom half-sine pulse with a change in velocity of 20 inches/sec (50.
Back to Contents Page System Board Components Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide 1 fan shroud power connector (FAN2) 2 system board speaker (SPEAKER) 3 speaker connector (SPEAKER) 4 memory modules (DIMM_A and DIMM_B) 5 RTC reset jumper (RTCRST) 6 password jumper (PSWD) 7 chassis intrusion switch power connector (INTRUDER) 8 standby power indicator (12V_PWR) 9 battery (BATTERY) 10 fan shroud power connector (FAN1) 11 microprocessor heat sink Back to Contents Page
Back to Contents Page Microsoft® Windows® XP Features Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Transferring Information to a New Computer Using Windows® XP System Restore User Accounts and Fast User Switching Setting Up a Home and Office Network Transferring Information to a New Computer The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer wizard to move data from the source computer to the new computer.
Creating a Restore Point 1. Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2. Click System Restore. 3. Follow the instructions on the screen. Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete. 1.
l 6. Limited — You can change only your own personal settings, such as your password. You cannot install programs or use the Internet. Click Create Account. Fast User Switching NOTE: Fast User Switching is unavailable if your computer is running Windows XP Professional and is a member of a computer domain, or if your computer has less than 128 MB of memory. Fast User Switching allows multiple users to access one computer without requiring the previous user to log off. 1.