Dell™ XPS™ M1730 Owner’s Manual Model PP06XA w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l .
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 hardware 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. ____________________ Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2007 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Contents Finding Information 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 . . . . . . 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Determining Your Computer’s Configuration Front View Left Side View Right Side View Back View 2 13 Setting Up Your Computer . Connecting to the Internet . . .
3 Using the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Switching the Video Image From Your Computer Display To a Projector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate . 4 . . . . . 32 . . . . 33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Conserving Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Configuring Power Management Settings . . . . . 42 . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Using the Sleep Power State Storing a Battery 6 Using the Optional Camera Accessing the Camera’s Help File . . . . . . . . . . . 45 . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 56 . . . . . . . . . 58 . . . . . . . 60 . . . . 62 . . . . . . 64 . . . . 66 . . . . . . . 68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 . . . . . . . . 71 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 . . . . . . . . 74 . . . . . . . 75 . . 75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card . . . . 81 Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network . . . 82 Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card 82 . . . . . . . . . 83 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 . . . . . . . . . . . 86 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 102 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 The computer does not start . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 . . . . . . . . . . 103 External Keyboard problems Unexpected characters The computer stops responding A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly 104 A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 . . . . . . . . . . 116 . . 118 . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 . . . . 118 . . . . . . . .
13 Dell™ QuickSet Features . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Traveling With Your Computer . Identifying Your Computer . 145 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146 Traveling by Air 15 Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147 . . . . . 148 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Technical Support and Customer Service DellConnect . Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Specifications 17 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161 . . . . . . . . . . . . 161 . . . . . . . . . 162 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164 . . . . . . . . . 164 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166 . . . . . . .
Contents
Finding Information NOTE: Some features may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features may not be available in certain countries. NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer. What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • • • • Drivers and Utilities Media A diagnostic program for my computer Drivers for my computer Device documentation Notebook System Software (NSS) Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • How to set up my computer Setup Diagram 14 Finding Information
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • Service Tag and Express Service Code • Microsoft® Windows® Product Key Service Tag and Microsoft Windows Product Key These labels are located on your computer. • Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use support.dell.com or contact support. • Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting support.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, online courses, and frequently asked questions • Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers • Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as the memory, hard drive, and operating system • Customer Care — Contact information, service call and order status, and warranty and repair information • Service and support — Service call status, support history, service contract, and o
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints — Frequently asked questions, hot topics, and general health of your computing environment Dell Support Utility • How to use Windows Vista™ • How to work with programs and files • How to personalize my desktop Windows Help and Support 1 Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Help and Support.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • How to reinstall my operating system Operating System Media The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use one of the following methods: • Microsoft Windows System Restore — Microsoft Windows System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files.
About Your Computer Determining Your Computer’s Configuration Based on selections that you made when purchasing your computer, your computer has one of several different video controller configurations. To determine your computer’s video controller configuration: 1 Click Start , and then click Help and Support. 2 Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems. 3 Under My Computer Information, select Hardware.
Front View 5 4 1 2 3 1 media control buttons 2 keyboard status lights 3 keyboard 4 power button 5 display MEDIA CONTROL BUTTONS 20 — Control CD, DVD, and Media Player playback.
KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS The blue lights located above the keyboard indicate the following: 9 Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled. A Turns on when the uppercase letter (caps lock) function is enabled. Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled. KEYBOARD — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft Windows logo key. POWER BUTTON — Press the power button to turn on the computer or exit a power management mode (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 42).
Left Side View 2 1 1 optical drive 2 audio connectors OPTICAL DRIVE — For more information about the optical drive, see "Using Multimedia" on page 47. AUDIO CONNECTORS Attach headphones or speakers to the Attach a microphone to the connector. connector.
E X P R E S S C A R D S L O T — Supports one ExpressCard, The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device. Back View 2 1 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 air vent S - V I D E O TV- O U T C O N N E C T O R Connects your computer to a TV. Also connects digital audio capable devices using the TV/digital audio adapter cable.
About Your Computer
Setting Up Your Computer Connecting to the Internet NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: • DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line or cellular telephone service.
Setting Up Your Internet Connection To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. 3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. NOTE: If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail and Internet Problems" on page 94.
Transferring Information to a New Computer You can transfer the following types of data from one computer to another: • E-mail messages • Toolbar settings • Window sizes • Internet bookmarks Use one of the following methods for transferring data: • Windows Easy Transfer wizard, an Easy Transfer Cable, and a USB port • Over a network • Removable media, such as a writable CD Windows Easy Transfer 1 Click Start →All Programs →Accessories →System Tools → Windows Easy Transfer.
Printer Cable Your printer connects to your computer with a USB cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer and computer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the computer’s shipping box. Connecting a USB Printer NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
3 Turn on the printer, and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel. 4 Click Start , and then click Network. 5 Click Add a printer to start the Add Printer Wizard. NOTE: To install the printer driver, see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 116 and the documentation that came with your printer. 6 Click Add a local printer or Add a network, wireless, or Bluetooth printer. 7 Follow the instructions in the Add Printer Wizard.
Line Conditioners NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions. Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level. Uninterruptible Power Supplies NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage. NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection.
Using the Display Adjusting Brightness When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the display brightness to the lowest comfortable level. • Press and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). • Press and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image may appear blurry or text may be hard to read if you change the resolution to one not supported by your computer and display. Before you change any of the display settings, make a note of the current settings so you can change back to the previous settings if needed.
Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Numeric Keypad numeric keypad The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, hold down and press the desired key. • To enable the keypad, press . The keypad is active. • To disable the keypad, press again.
Key Combinations System Functions Opens the Task Manager window. Display Functions Displays icons representing all currently available display options (display only, external monitor or projector only, both display and projector, etc). Highlight the desired icon to switch the display to that option. and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
Windows logo key and Restores all minimized windows. This key combination functions as a toggle to restore minimized windows following the use of the Windows logo key and combination. Windows logo key and Starts Windows Explorer. Windows logo key and Opens the Run dialog box. Windows logo key and Opens the Search Results dialog box. Windows logo key and Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if the computer is connected to a network).
• To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad. • To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch pad button. • To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad. On the second tap, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected object by sliding your finger over the surface.
Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 37
Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
Using a Battery Battery Performance NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer. For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.
You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low. CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use batteries from other computers with your computer. CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste.
Microsoft® Windows® Battery Meter The battery meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the battery meter, double-click the icon in the notification area.
Low-Battery Warning NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery warning, then connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power, Sleep state begins automatically. A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer enters Sleep state when the battery charge is at a critically low level.
Using the Sleep Power State Rather than shutting down your portable computer, use the Sleep power state to conserve power. Sleep automatically saves your work to your hard drive, and then returns you to your previous work session without restarting your computer. NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in Sleep state, it may lose data. To enter Sleep state: • Click the Start , click , and then click Sleep.
Replacing the Battery CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use batteries from other computers with your computer.
Using the Optional Camera If you ordered a camera when you bought your computer, the camera is integrated in the computer display. The camera and its integrated digital microphones allow you to take photos and videos and to communicate visually and verbally with other computer users. The blue camera light appears when the camera is turned on. For more information about camera features, see "Specifications" on page 153.
Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings If you do not want the camera to use automatic settings, you can manually adjust the camera settings. 1 Right-click the icon in the notification area and click Launch Webcam Console. 2 In the Webcam Console window: • Click the Camera tab to adjust video settings, such as contrast and brightness. • Click the Effects tab to adjust audio settings, such as the volume level.
Using Multimedia Playing Media NOTICE: Do not press down on the optical drive tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing media. 1 Press the eject button on the front of the drive. 2 Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray and snap the disc onto the spindle. 3 Push the tray back into the drive.
To format media for storing or copying data, see the media software that came with your computer. NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when copying media. A CD player includes the following basic buttons: Play. Move backward within the current track. Pause. Move forward within the current track. Stop. Go to the previous track. Eject. Go to the next track. A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: Stop. Restart the current chapter. Play. Fast forward. Pause. Fast reverse.
Playing Media Using Dell Express Card Remote Control The Dell Express Card remote control is designed to control Dell Media Direct and Windows Vista™ Media Center. It can work only with specified computers. For more details, refer to the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. To play media using Dell Express Card remote control: 1 Install a coin-cell battery into your Express Card remote control. 2 Launch Windows Vista™ Media Center from Start →Programs. 3 Use the remote control buttons to play media.
1 Infrared Transmitter 2 Page Up 3 Page Down 4 Arrow Up 5 OK/Enter/Select 6 Arrow Right 7 Arrow Down 8 Play/Pause 9 Forward 10 Skip Forward 11 Stop 12 Skip Back 13 Reverse 14 Back 15 Arrow Left 16 Mute 17 Volume Down 18 Volume Up Copying CD and DVD Media This section applies only to computers that have a DVD+/-RW drive. NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when copying media. NOTE: The types of optical drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
How to Copy a CD or DVD NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus. 1 Click Start →All Programs →Roxio Creator DE →Projects →Copy. 2 Under the Copy tab, click Copy Disc. 3 To copy the CD or DVD: • If you have one optical drive, insert the source disc into the drive, ensure that the settings are correct, and then click the Copy Disc button to continue.
DVD-Writable Drives Media Type Read Write Rewritable CD-R Yes Yes No CD-RW Yes Yes Yes DVD+R Yes Yes No DVD-R Yes Yes No DVD+RW Yes Yes Yes DVD-RW Yes Yes Yes DVD+R DL Yes Yes No DVD-R DL Yes Yes No Helpful Tips 52 • Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Roxio Creator and open a Creator project.
Adjusting the Volume NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the media playing. 1 Right-click the volume icon in the notification area. 2 Click Open Volume Mixer. 3 Click and drag the bar to slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume. For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Mixer window. The Volume Meter displays the current volume level, including mute, on your computer.
1 1 Dell MediaDirect button NOTE: You cannot reinstall Dell MediaDirect if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive. You need the installation software to reinstall Dell MediaDirect. Contact Dell for assistance (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152). For more information on using Dell MediaDirect, use the Help menu in the Dell MediaDirect application.
1 1 2 S-video TV-out connector 1 2 S-video connector 2 3 4 5 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter 3 S/PDIF digital audio connector 4 composite video-output connector 5 S-video connector 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter 3 S/PDIF digital audio connector 4 Pr (red) component video-output connector 5 Pb (blue) component video-output connector 6 Y (green) component video-output connector Using Multimedia 55
If you want to connect your computer to a TV or audio device, it is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the following combinations: • S-video and standard audio • Composite video and standard audio • Component-out video and standard audio NOTE: See the diagrams at the beginning of each subsection to help you determine which method of connection you should use.
1 2 1 standard S-video cable 2 standard audio cable 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. NOTE: If your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio, you can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer (without the TV/digital audio adapter cable). 2 Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the computer.
S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 1 2 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter 1 2 3 1 58 composite video adapter Using Multimedia 2 S-video cable 3 S/PDIF digital audio cable
1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or the audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3 Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the composite video adapter. 2 1 1 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable 4 Plug the other end of the S-video cable into the S-video input connector on the TV.
Composite Video and Standard Audio 1 2 3 1 audio input connector 3 composite video adapter 2 S-video TV-out connector 1 2 3 60 1 composite video adapter 3 standard audio cable Using Multimedia 2 composite video cable
1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3 Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite videooutput connector on the composite video adapter. 1 2 1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable 4 Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite videoinput connector on the TV.
Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 1 2 S-video TV-out connector 2 composite video adapter 1 2 3 62 1 composite video adapter 3 standard audio cable Using Multimedia 2 composite video cable
1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer. 3 Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the composite video adapter. 1 2 1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable 4 Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite videoinput connector on the TV.
Component Video and Standard Audio 1 1 2 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter 1 2 3 64 1 component video adapter 3 standard audio cable Using Multimedia 2 component video cable
1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3 Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the corresponding adapter ports.
Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 2 component video adapter 1 2 3 66 1 component video adapter 3 standard audio cable Using Multimedia 2 component video cable
1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer. 3 Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the corresponding adapter ports.
6 Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device. 7 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 68 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. 2 Click the Options menu and then click Advanced Controls.
Using Cards ExpressCards ExpressCards provide additional memory, wired and wireless communications, multimedia and security features. For example, you can add an ExpressCard to make wireless wide area network (WWAN) connectivity available on your computer. ExpressCards support two form factors: • ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide) • ExpressCard/54 (54 mm wide in an L-shape with a 34 mm connector) The 34 mm card fits into both the 34 mm and 54 mm card slots. The 54 mm card only fits into a 54 mm card slot.
ExpressCard Blanks Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the ExpressCard slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no ExpressCard is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer. Remove the blank before installing an ExpressCard. To remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 71. Installing an ExpressCard You can install an ExpressCard while the computer is running.
1 1 slot 2 2 ExpressCard The computer recognizes the ExpressCard and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the media that came with the ExpressCard. Removing an ExpressCard or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Press the latch and remove the card or blank.
1 1 release button Memory Card Reader The memory card reader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card. NOTE: A memory card is not a bootable device.
Memory Card Blanks Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the memory card reader. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no media memory card is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer. Remove the blank before installing a media memory card. To remove the blank, see "Removing a Memory Card or Blank" on page 74.
The computer recognizes the memory card and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the media that came with the memory card, if applicable. Removing a Memory Card or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
Setting Up and Using Networks Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer, or a network. For example, with a network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer, access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or access the Internet. You can set up a local area network (LAN) using a network or broadband modem cable or set up a wireless LAN (WLAN).
Setting Up a Network 1 Click Start , and then click Connect To. 2 Click Set up a connection or network. 3 Select an option under Choose a connection option. 4 Click Next, and then follow the instructions in the wizard. Wireless Local Area Network A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each computer.
Device Manager 1 Click Start , and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Classic View on the menu on the left side of the Control Panel. 3 Double-click Device Manager. NOTE: The User Account Control window may open. 4 Click Continue on the User Account Control window if it opens. 5 Click the + next to Network adapters to list the utility that manages your wireless network card. If a network adapter is not listed, you may not have a wireless network card.
6 Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem. 7 Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that there is no power connected to the router. NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before continuing with the network setup. 8 Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered broadband modem.
Connecting to a WLAN NOTE: Before you connect to a WLAN, ensure that you have followed the instructions in "Wireless Local Area Network" on page 76. NOTE: The following networking instructions do not apply to internal cards with Bluetooth® wireless technology or cellular products. This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary.
Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. To turn the wireless activity indicator on or off, click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Hotkey Popups. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is not checked, the indicator is on. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is checked, the indicator is off.
• An activated Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or activated Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) for your service provider • The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility (already installed on your computer if you purchased the card when you purchased your computer, or on the media that accompanied your card if purchased separately from your computer) If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide in Windows Help and Support (click Start , and then cl
Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mobile Broadband ExpressCards or MiniCards. They do not apply to internal cards with wireless technology. NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate Mobile Broadband service through your cellular service provider.
If the switch is in the on position, move the switch to the off position to disable the switch and the Mobile Broadband card. If the switch is in the off position, move the switch to the on position to enable the switch and the Dell Mobile Broadband card. For information about the wireless switch positions. To monitor the status of your wireless device, see "Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet" on page 80.
Setting Up and Using Networks
Securing Your Computer Security Cable Lock NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock. A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device. NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot on your computer. Passwords Passwords prevent unauthorized access to your computer.
• Do not share your password with other people. • Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password. NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However, they are not foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection such as data encryption programs. Use the User Accounts option in the Control Panel in the Microsoft® Windows® operating system to create user accounts or to change passwords.
Troubleshooting Dell Technical Update Service The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications. To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.
1 Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly. 2 Turn on (or restart) your computer. 3 Start the Dell Diagnostics in one of the following two ways: a When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately. Select Diagnostics from the boot menu, and then press . NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.
NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down for extended periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and release in even intervals until the boot device menu appears. 4 At the boot device menu, use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW, and then press . NOTE: The Quickboot feature changes the boot sequence for the current boot only. Upon restart, the computer boots according to the boot sequence specified in system setup.
After you have selected the Test System option from the main menu, the following menu appears. NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Test from the menu below to run a more thorough check of the devices in the computer. Option Function Express Test Performs a quick test of system devices. The test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly.
Tab Function Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered. Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the problem description. Help Describes the test and any requirements for running the test. Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.
For more information about the Dell Support Utility, click the question mark (?) at the top of the Dell Support window. To access the Dell Support Utility: • Click the Dell Support icon NOTE: The in the notification area. icon functions vary when clicking, double-clicking, or right-clicking. Or • →All Programs →Dell Support →Dell Support Click the Start Settings. Ensure that the Show icon on the taskbar option is checked.
Optical drive problems NOTE: High-speed optical drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the media. NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives. Problems writing to a CD-RW or DVD+/-RW drive C L O S E O T H E R P R O G R A M S — CD-RW and DVD+/-RW drives must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs.
Hard drive problems A L L O W T H E C O M P U T E R T O C O O L B E F O R E T U R N I N G I T O N — A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on. RUN CHECK DISK — 1 Click Start →Computer. 2 Right-click Local Disk (C:). 3 Click Properties→Tools→Check Now. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear.
• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone, then listen for a dial tone. • If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
Error Messages Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 151 as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared. A U X I L I A R Y D E V I C E F A I L U R E — The touch pad or external mouse may be faulty. For an external mouse, check the cable connection.
T H E F I L E B E I N G C O P I E D I S T O O L A R G E F O R T H E D E S T I N A T I O N D R I V E — The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk, or the disk is full. Try copying the file to a different disk or use a larger capacity disk. A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in filenames. G A T E A 2 0 F A I L U R E — A memory module may be loose.
P R O G R A M — The system configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate options in the system setup program (see "Using the System Setup Program" on page 161). K E Y B O A R D C L O C K L I N E F A I L U R E — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87).
VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 128). MEMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 128). N O B O O T D E V I C E A V A I L A B L E — The computer cannot find the hard drive.
S E E K E R R O R — The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard drive. S H U T D O W N F A I L U R E — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87). T I M E - O F - D A Y C L O C K L O S T P O W E R — System configuration settings are corrupted. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery.
ExpressCard Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. C H E C K T H E E X P R E S S C A R D — Ensure that the ExpressCard is properly inserted into the connector. C H E C K T H A T T H E C A R D I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S — Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Some cards do not support this feature.
Keyboard Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 151 as you perform the various checks. NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
4 From the Windows desktop, click Start Accessories →Notepad. →All Programs → 5 Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display. If the characters appear now, but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152). R U N T H E K E Y B O A R D D I A G N O S T I C S T E S T S — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87).
A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly END THE PROGRAM — 1 Press simultaneously. 2 Click the Applications tab and select the program that is no longer responding. 3 Click End Task. NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen. C H E C K T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
C A N N O T P L A Y S O M E M E D I A F I L E S — Because Dell MediaDirect provides access to media files outside the Windows operating system environment, access to licensed content is restricted. Licensed content is digital content that has Digital Rights Management (DRM) applied to it. The Dell MediaDirect environment cannot verify the DRM restrictions, so the licensed files cannot be played. Licensed music and video files have a lock icon next to them.
S C A N T H E C O M P U T E R F O R S P Y W A R E — If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.
Network Problems Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 151 as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K C A B L E C O N N E C T O R — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.
CHECK NETWORK CONNECTION STATUS IN THE DELL MOBILE BROADBAND CARD U T I L I T Y — Double-click the icon to launch the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility. Check the status in the main window: • No card detected — Restart the computer, and launch the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility again. • Check your WWAN service — Contact your cellular service provider to verify your plan coverage and supported services. Power Problems Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 151 as you complete these checks.
If the battery status light rapidly flashes amber, the battery may be defective. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152). C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y T E M P E R A T U R E — If the battery temperature is below 0°C (32°F), the computer will not start. TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. C H E C K T H E A C A D A P T E R — Check the AC adapter cable connections.
TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. VE R I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S — 1 Click Start →Control Panel →Hardware and Sound →Printers. 2 Right-click the printer icon. 3 Click Properties, and then click the Ports tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port).
Sound and Speaker Problems Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 151 as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. No sound from integrated speakers A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — 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.
No sound from headphones C H E C K T H E H E A D P H O N E C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector. A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — 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.
3 Turn on the computer. 4 At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it. If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective. C H E C K T H E S YS T E M S E T U P P R O G R A M S E T T I N G S — Verify that the system setup program lists the correct device for the pointing device option (the computer automatically recognizes a USB mouse without making any setting adjustments).
A D J U S T T H E P O W E R P R O P E R T I E S — Search for the keyword sleep in Windows Help and Support. S W I T C H T H E V I D E O I M A G E — If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press to switch the video image to the display. If the display is difficult to read A D J U S T T H E B R I G H T N E S S — Press and the up- or down-arrow key.
Drivers What Is a Driver? A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices require a driver program. A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes. Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation or configuration is needed.
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and Utilities media provide approved drivers for Dell computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly. Using Windows Device Driver Rollback If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.
4 When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the Drivers and Utilities disc. 5 At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next. NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities program displays drivers only for hardware that came installed in your computer. If you installed additional hardware, the drivers for the new hardware might not be displayed. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the Drivers and Utilities program. For drivers information, see the documentation that came with the device.
8 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next. 9 Click Finish, and then restart your computer. Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, use Windows Vista Help and Support to resolve the incompatibility: 1 Click Start →Help and Support. 2 Type hardware troubleshooter in the search field, then press .
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them. NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view. 1 Click Start →Help and Support. 2 Type System Restore in the search field, then press . NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear.
• Dell Operating System media • Dell Drivers and Utilities media NOTE: Your Drivers and Utilities media contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer. Use your Drivers and Utilities media to load any required drivers, including the drivers required if your computer has a RAID controller. Reinstalling Windows The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete.
Troubleshooting 121
Troubleshooting
Adding and Replacing Parts Before You Begin This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist: • You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 123) and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" (see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 124). • You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes. 2 Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you service the computer. 4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets. 5 Remove the battery. Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the battery from the bay. 1 1 battery-bay latch release 2 2 battery 6 Press the power button to ground the system board. 7 Remove any installed ExpressCards from the ExpressCard slot.
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see page 123) before removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate mode. NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile; even a slight bump can damage the drive. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
1 2 1 hard drive screws (2) 2 hard drive NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. See "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide. 3 Slide the hard drive out of the computer. 4 Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive. NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage the connector.
Returning a Hard Drive to Dell Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original or comparable foam packaging. Otherwise, the hard drive may be damaged in transit. 2 1 1 foam packaging 2 hard drive Memory You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See "Specifications" on page 153 for information on the memory supported by your computer. Install only memory modules that are intended for your computer.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you begin working inside the computer. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 123. 2 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer. NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer. 3 Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the memory module cover, and then remove the cover.
2 1 3 1 memory module 2 securing clips (2 per connector) 3 memory module connector NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error message indicates this failure. 5 Ground yourself and install the new memory module: 130 a Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot. b Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down until it clicks into place.
6 Replace the memory module cover. NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer. 7 Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet. 8 Turn on the computer. As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration information. If prompted, press to continue.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you begin working inside the computer. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 123. 2 Turn the computer over and loosen the captive screws from the MiniCard/modem cover. 3 Place your finger under the cover at the indentation, and lift the cover to remove it. 4 If a Mini-Card is not already installed, go to step 5.
3 1 2 1 antenna cables (2) 2 Mini-Card 3 Mini-Card connector b Release the Mini-Card by pushing the metal securing clips toward the back of the computer until the card pops up slightly. c Lift the Mini-Card out of its connector.
2 1 1 134 securing clips Adding and Replacing Parts 2 Mini-Card
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors and realign the card. 5 Install the replacement Mini-Card: a Align the Mini-Card with the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the Mini-Card down into the securing clips until the card clicks into place. 3 2 1 1 securing clips 2 antenna connectors (2) 3 Mini-Card connector NOTICE: To avoid damaging the Mini-Card, never place cables under the card.
NOTE: If your computer has a gray cable, connect it to the connector with the gray triangle, if one is available on your card. 6 Replace the Mini-Card/modem cover. Hinge Cover CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
b Insert a scribe into the indent to lift the hinge cover on the right side. c Ease the hinge cover up, moving from right to left, and remove it. 1 1 hinge cover When replacing the hinge cover, first insert the left edge and then press from left to right until the cover snaps into place. Keyboard CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
a Remove the two screws at the top of the keyboard. NOTICE: The key caps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and timeconsuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard. b Lift the keyboard and hold it up and slightly forward to access to the keyboard connector. c To disconnect the keyboard cable from the keyboard connector on the system board, rotate the keyboard connector latch toward the front of the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer). NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you begin working inside the computer. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 123. 2 Remove the hinge cover. See "Hinge Cover" on page 136. 3 Remove the keyboard. See "Keyboard" on page 137.
b Connect the battery cable to the connector on the system board. 6 Replace the keyboard. 7 Replace the hinge cover. Optical Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 123. 2 Turn the computer over. 3 Remove the optical-drive security screw. 4 Insert a scribe into the notch and push it to the side to release the drive from the bay.
To reinstall the optical drive, slide the drive into the drive bay and snap it into place. Then replace the optical-drive security screw. Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
3 2 1 1 cable connector 2 card 3 card cover 5 To replace the card, connect the card to the cable and then carefully insert it into the compartment. 6 Replace the card cover and tighten the screw. 7 Replace the battery.
Dell™ QuickSet Features NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer. Dell QuickSet provides you with easy access to configure or view the following types of settings: • Network connectivity • Display • System information Depending on what you want to do in Dell QuickSet, you can start it by either clicking, double-clicking, or right-clicking the QuickSet icon in the Microsoft® Windows® notification area. The notification area is located in the lower-right corner of your screen.
Dell™ QuickSet Features
Traveling With Your Computer Identifying Your Computer • Attach a name tag or business card to the computer. • Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case. Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell. • Create a file on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop called if_found. Place information such as your name, address, and phone number in this file.
• Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as extreme temperatures and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids. • Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead storage compartment. Travel Tips NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive to prevent loss of data. NOTICE: Do not check the computer as baggage.
Getting Help Obtaining Assistance CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer cover, first disconnect the computer power and modem cables 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 "Troubleshooting" on page 87 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. 2 See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics.
Technical Support and Customer Service Dell's support service is available to answer your questions about Dell™ hardware. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers. To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You Call" on page 150, and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com.
• Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses apmarketing@dell.com (Asian/Pacific 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 password. AutoTech Service Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and desktop computers.
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: 1 Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 152. 2 Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.
Diagnostics Checklist Name: Date: Address: Phone number: Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer): Express Service Code: Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician): Operating system and version: Devices: Expansion cards: Are you connected to a network? 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.
Contacting Dell NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog. Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. Because availability varies by country and product, some services may not be available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues: 1 Visit www.support.dell.com.
Specifications NOTE: Your computer comes in different configurations. To determine the configuration of your computer, see "Determining Your Computer’s Configuration" on page 19.
ExpressCard (continued) Cards supported ExpressCard/34 (34 mm) and ExpressCard/54 (54 mm) ExpressCard connector size 26 pins Memory Memory module connector two user-accessible SODIMM connectors Memory module capacities 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB Memory type 1.
Ports and Connectors Audio microphone-in connector, two stereo headphones/speakers connector IEEE 1394a 4-pin mini, nonpowered connector Consumer IR sensor compatible with Philips RC6 (receive only) Network adapter RJ-45 port S-video TV-out 7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-video to composite video adapter cable; optional S-video to component video adapter cable) USB four 4-pin USB 2.
Video (continued) LCD interface LVDS TV support NTSC or PAL in S-video, component, and composite modes ATSC for TV tuner card (TVT8) Audio Audio type High Definition Audio (HDA) codec Stereo conversion 24-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-toanalog) Interfaces: Internal HDA bus External microphone-in connector, two stereo headphones/speakers connector Speaker four stereo 8-ohm main speakers with two 18 mm transducers per side and one subwoofer with bass reflex port bluetooth speaker adapter In
Display (continued) Height 245.0 mm (9.64 inches) Width 383.0 mm (15 inches) Diagonal 431.8 mm (17 inches) Maximum resolution 1920 x 1200 at 16.7 million colors Refresh rate 60 Hz Operating angle 0° (closed) to 180° Viewing angle (typical): Horizontal ±60° Vertical ±45° Pixel pitch 0.191 mm (17-inch display) Power consumption (panel with backlight) (typical): 7.54 W Controls brightness can be controlled through keyboard shortcuts Keyboard Number of keys 101 (U.S.
Touch Pad (continued) Height 42.9-mm (1.69-inch) rectangle Battery Type 9-cell "smart" lithium ion Dimensions: Depth 88.5 mm (3.48 inches) Height 21.5 mm (0.83 inch) Width 139.0 mm (5.47 inches) Weight 0.48 kg (1.1 lb) (9 cell) Voltage 10.8 VDC Charge time (approximate): Computer off 4 hours (at 100% in 4 hours) 2 hour (at 80% in 2 hours) Operating time Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions and can be significantly reduced under certain power-intensive conditions.
AC Adapter NOTE: For optimum system performance, you should always use a 130-W AC adapter. Using less-powerful AC adapters may cause you to receive a WARNING message and may also cause your computer to experience a degradation in performance. Input voltage 90–264 VAC Input current (maximum) 3.2 A Input frequency 47–63 Hz Output current 11.8 A (continuous), 12.8A peak 4 second pulse Output power 230 W Rated output voltage 19.5 VDC Dimensions: Height 43 mm (1.7 inches) Width 100 mm (3.
Environmental (continued) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Relative humidity: Operating 10% to 90% (noncondensing) Storage 5% to 95% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration (using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates user environment): Operating 0.66 GRMS Storage 1.3 GRMS Maximum shock (measured with a 2-ms half-sine pulse): Operating 143 G Storage 163 G Altitude (maximum): 160 Operating –15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft) Storage –15.
Appendix Using the System Setup Program NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in system setup, thus overriding options that you set through system setup. An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through system setup. For more information on configuring features for your operating system, see Windows Help and Support (click Start , and then click Help and Support).
Viewing the System Setup Screen 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer. 2 When the DELL logo appears, press immediately. If you wait too long and the Microsoft Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again. System Setup Screen NOTE: For information about a specific item on a system setup screen, highlight the item and see the Help area on the screen. On each screen, the system setup options are listed at the left.
• USB Storage Device • CD/DVD/CD-RW drive • Modular bay HDD NOTE: Only devices that are preceded by a number are bootable. During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device for the operating system start-up files. When the computer finds the files, it stops searching and starts the operating system.
Cleaning Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. Computer, Keyboard, and Display CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and remove any installed batteries. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.
Touch Pad 1 Shut down and turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 123). 2 Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets. 3 Remove any installed batteries (see "Battery Performance" on page 39). 4 Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe it gently across the surface of the touch pad. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.
Media NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the optical drive, and follow the instructions that come with the compressed air product. Never touch the lens in the drive. If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your media, try cleaning the discs. 1 Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole. NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.
Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Dell-installed software includes the operating system and some of the software programs that are installed on the computer during the manufacturing process (Microsoft Office, Norton Antivirus, etc). Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dell-branded module bay or ExpressCard accessories.
cause harmful interference with radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: • Reorient the receiving antenna. • Relocate the system with respect to the receiver. • Move the system away from the receiver. • Plug the system into a different outlet so that the system and the receiver are on different branch circuits.
Glossary 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.
understand what effect these settings have on the computer, do not change them. Also referred to as system setup. bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your computer. Bluetooth® wireless technology — A wireless technology standard for short-range (9 m [29 feet]) networking devices that allows for enabled devices to automatically recognize each other. boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from which the computer attempts to boot.
CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once. CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read CDs and DVDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once.
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 that conforms to DIN (Deutsche Industrie-Norm) standards; it is typically used to connect PS/2 keyboard or mouse cable connectors. disk striping — A technique for spreading data over multiple disk drives. Disk striping can speed up operations that retrieve data from disk storage.
E ECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special circuitry for testing the accuracy of data as it passes in and out of memory. ECP — extended capabilities port — A parallel connector design that provides improved bidirectional data transmission. Similar to EPP, ECP uses direct memory access to transfer data and often improves performance. EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives and CD drives.
FBD — fully-buffered DIMM — A DIMM with DDR2 DRAM chips and an Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) that speeds communication between the DDR2 SDRAM chips and the system. FCC — Federal Communications Commission — A U.S. agency responsible for enforcing communications-related regulations that state how much radiation computers and other electronic equipment can emit. fingerprint reader — A strip sensor that uses your unique fingerprint to authenticate your user identity to help secure your computer.
heat sink — A metal plate on some processors that helps dissipate heat. hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves everything in memory to a reserved space on the hard drive and then turns off the computer. When you restart the computer, the memory information that was saved to the hard drive is automatically restored. HTTP — hypertext transfer protocol — A protocol for exchanging files between computers connected to the Internet.
assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share the same IRQ assignment, you cannot operate both devices simultaneously. ISP — Internet service provider — A company that allows you to access its host server to connect directly to the Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access websites. The ISP typically provides you with a software package, user name, and access phone numbers for a fee. K Kb — kilobit — A unit of data that equals 1024 bits. A measurement of the capacity of memory integrated circuits.
equals 1024 KB. When used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often rounded to 1,000,000 bytes. MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes per second. This measurement is typically used for data transfer ratings. media bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module. memory — A temporary data storage area inside your computer.
MP — megapixel — A measure of image resolution used for digital cameras. ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second. Access times of storage devices are often measured in ms. N network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interface controller). NIC — See network adapter.
PCI Express — A modification to the PCI interface that boosts the data transfer rate between the processor and the devices attached to it. PCI Express can transfer data at speeds from 250 MB/sec to 4 GB/sec. If the PCI Express chip set and the device are capable of different speeds, they will operate at the slower speed. PCMCIA — Personal Computer Memory Card International Association — The organization that establishes standards for PC Cards.
read-only — Data and/or files you can view but cannot edit or delete. A file can have read-only status if: • It resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD. • It is located on a network in a directory and the system administrator has assigned rights only to specific individuals. refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines are recharged (sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency).
SDRAM — synchronous dynamic random-access memory — A type of DRAM that is synchronized with the optimal clock speed of the processor. serial connector — An I/O port often used to connect devices such as a handheld digital device or digital camera to your computer. Service Tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service or technical support.
video memory installed in the computer. S-video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or digital audio device to the computer. SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 1024. SXGA+ — super-extended graphics array plus — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1400 x 1050. system board — The main circuit board in your computer. Also known as the motherboard.
electrical power fails or drops to an unacceptable voltage level. A UPS keeps a computer running for a limited amount of time when there is no electrical power. UPS systems typically provide surge suppression and may also provide voltage regulation. Small UPS systems provide battery power for a few minutes to enable you to shut down your computer.
turned on, the computer is infected when it reads the boot sectors of the floppy disk expecting to find the operating system. If the computer is infected, the boot virus may replicate itself onto all the floppy disks that are read or written in that computer until the virus is eradicated. V — volt — The measurement of electric potential or electromotive force. One V appears across a resistance of 1 ohm when a current of 1 ampere flows through that resistance.
Z ZIF — zero insertion force — A type of socket or connector that allows a computer chip to be installed or removed with no stress applied to either the chip or its socket. Zip — A popular data compression format. Files that have been compressed with the Zip format are called Zip files and usually have a filename extension of .zip. A special kind of zipped file is a self-extracting file, which has a filename extension of .exe. You can unzip a self-extracting file by double-clicking it.
Glossary
Index Numerics boot sequence, 162 8-in-1 memory card reader, 72 brightness adjusting, 31 A audio connectors description, 22 audio device connecting, 54 enabling, 68 audio.
copying CDs general information, 50 helpful tips, 52 how to, 51 copying DVDs general information, 50 helpful tips, 52 how to, 51 D Dell contacting, 152 Dell Diagnostics about, 87 starting from the Drivers and Utilities media, 88 starting from your hard drive, 87 Dell MediaDirect problems, 104 Dell support site, 16 DellConnect, 148 documentation End User License Agreement, 13 ergonomics, 13 online, 16 Product Information Guide, 13 regulatory, 13 safety, 13 warranty, 13 drivers about, 115 identifying, 115 r
F problems, 102 removing, 137 shortcuts, 34 fan description, 23 keyboard status lights description, 21 H hard drive problems, 94 replacing, 125 returning to Dell, 128 hardware Dell Diagnostics, 87 Hardware Troubleshooter, 118 hinge cover description, 136 removing, 136 I icons adjusting the size, 143 IEEE 1394 connector problems, 101 Internet connection about, 25 options, 25 setting up, 26 K keyboard numeric keypad, 33 keypad numeric, 33 L labels Microsoft Windows, 15 Service Tag, 15 lost computer, 8
blanks, 74 removing, 74 messages error, 96 microphone directional, 45 Mini-Card installing, 131 Mobile Broadband network connections, 80 See also wireless switch Mobile Broadband (WWAN) problems, 107 modem installing, 131 monitor.
hard drive, 94 IEEE 1394 connector, 101 keyboard, 102 lockups, 103 network, 107 power, 108 power light conditions, 108 printer, 109 program crashes repeatedly, 104 program stops responding, 104 programs and Windows compatibility, 104 restore computer to previous operating state, 118 restore operating system to previous state, 118 scanner, 110 slow computer performance, 95, 106 software, 103-105 sound and speakers, 111 speakers, 111 spyware, 95, 106 Product Information Guide, 13 Q QuickSet, 143 reinstallin
support contacting Dell, 152 tips, 146 S-video TV-out connector connecting a TV, 23 description, 23 troubleshooting Dell Diagnostics, 87 Hardware Troubleshooter, 118 restore computer to previous operating state, 118 System Restore, 118 turning off your computer, 123 system setup program commonly used options, 162 screens, 162 viewing, 162 TV connecting, 54 support website, 16 U uninterruptible power supply.
Windows Easy Transfer wizard, 27 Windows Vista Device Driver Rollback, 116 Program Compatibility wizard, 104 reinstalling, 118 System Restore, 118 Windows Easy Transfer wizard, 27 wireless turning activity on and off, 143 wizards Program Compatibility wizard, 104 Windows Easy Transfer, 27 WWAN See also Mobile Broadband Index 193
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