book.book Page 1 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Dell™ Inspiron™ 531 Owner’s Manual Model DCMA w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l .
book.book Page 2 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Notes, Notices, and Cautions NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer. NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to 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.
book.book Page 3 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Contents 1 Finding Information 2 Setting Up and Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 . . . 15 Front View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Back View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Back Panel Connectors Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure . . . . . . . 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
book.book Page 4 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector . . . . . Connecting a TV . 32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 . . . . . . . . . . . 33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Changing the Display Settings Power Management Power Management Options in Microsoft® Windows® XP . . . Standby Mode Hibernate Mode . . . . . . . . . . 33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
book.book Page 5 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Battery Problems Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Error Messages . . . . . . . . 54 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
book.book Page 6 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Sound and Speaker Problems . No sound from speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 No sound from headphones Video and Monitor Problems If the screen is blank . . . . . . . . . . 72 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
book.book Page 7 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 Removing and Installing Parts Before You Begin . . . . . . . . 97 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 98 . . . . . . 98 Removing the Computer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Inside View of Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Before Working Inside Your Computer .
book.book Page 8 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 Replacing the Battery Power Supply Replacing the Power Supply Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 Removing the Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 Installing the Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
book.book Page 9 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM A Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167 System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172 Overview Entering System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172 System Setup Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 Boot Sequence . Clearing Forgotten Passwords .
book.book Page 10 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Problems With Your Order . Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185 Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit . . . . . 186 Before You Call . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186 Contacting Dell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189 Index 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
book.book Page 11 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Finding Information NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or media may not be available in certain countries. NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer. What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • • • • • • Dell™ Product Information Guide Warranty information Terms and Conditions (U.S.
book.book Page 12 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • Service Tag and Express Service Code • Microsoft Windows License Label Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License 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.
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book.book Page 14 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM What Are You Looking For? Find it Here ® • How to use your Windows operating system • How to work with programs and files • How to personalize my desktop Windows Help and Support Center 1 To access Windows Help and Support: • In Windows XP, click Start and click Help and Support. • In Windows Vista®, click the Windows Vista start button™ and click Help and Support. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and press .
book.book Page 15 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Setting Up and Using Your Computer Front View of the Computer 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 Service Tag (located on top of the chassis towards the rear) Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call technical support. 2 CD or DVD drive Use the CD/DVD drive for playing a CD/DVD. 3 CD or DVD drive panel This panel covers the CD/DVD drive.
book.book Page 16 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 optional CD or DVD drive bay Can contain an optional CD/DVD drive. 6 optional CD or DVD eject button Press to eject a disk from the optional CD or DVD drive. 7 FlexBay drive Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional Media Card Reader. For information on using the Media Card Reader, see the Sonic website at www.sonic.com for additional information. 8 USB 2.
book.book Page 17 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Back View of the Computer 1 2 6 3 5 4 1 power connector Insert the power cable. 2 power supply LED Indicates power availability for power supply. 3 back panel connectors Plug USB, audio, and other devices into the appropriate connector. See "Back Panel Connectors" on page 18 for more information. 4 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express cards.
book.book Page 18 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Back Panel Connectors 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 11 10 9 8 1 network activity light Flashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting or receiving network data. A high volume of network traffic may make this light appear to be in a steady "on" state. 2 network adapter connector To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a network cable to either a network port or your network or broadband device.
book.book Page 19 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 4 center/subwoofer Use the orange connector to attach a speaker to a Low connector Frequency Effects (LFE) audio channel. LFE audio channel is found in digital surround sound audio schemes that carries only low frequency information of 80 Hz and below. The LFE channel drives a subwoofer to provide extremely low bass extension. Systems not using subwoofers can shunt the LFE information to the main speakers in the surround sound set-up.
book.book Page 20 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure Installing your computer in an enclosure can restrict the airflow and impact your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat. Follow the guidelines below when installing your computer in an enclosure: NOTICE: The operating temperature specifications indicated in this manual reflects the maximum ambient operating temperature.
book.book Page 21 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM • Do not install your computer in an enclosure that does not allow airflow. Restricting the airflow impacts your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat.
book.book Page 22 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer. See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to: • Obtain and install updated drivers. • Connect the printer to the computer. • Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge. For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the printer manufacturer.
book.book Page 23 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 1 2 3 1 USB connector on computer 2 USB connector on printer 3 USB printer cable 3 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. 4 Depending on your computer’s operating system, a printer wizard may be available to help you install the printer driver: If your computer is running the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system and the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel.
book.book Page 24 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Playing CDs and DVDs NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs. 1 Press the eject button on the front of the drive. 2 Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray. 3 Gently push in the tray.
book.book Page 25 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: Stop Restart the current chapter Play Fast forward Pause Fast reverse Advance a single frame while in pause mode Go to the next title or chapter Continuously play the current title or chapter Go to the previous title or chapter Eject For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or DVD player (if available).
book.book Page 26 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Adjusting the Picture If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties: Windows XP: 1 Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. 2 Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes. 3 Under Pick a task..., click Change the screen resolution.
book.book Page 27 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Copying CDs and DVDs NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when creating CDs or DVDs. This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD (combo) drive. NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country. The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD.
book.book Page 28 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Windows Vista®: 1 Click Start , point to All Programs Copy Disc Copy. Sonic DigitalMedia Projects 2 To copy the CD or DVD: • If you have one CD or DVD drive, ensure that the settings are correct and click the Disc Copy button. The computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive. When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive and click OK.
book.book Page 29 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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 Helpful Tips • Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Sonic DigitalMedia and open a DigitalMedia project. • Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos.
book.book Page 30 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Using a Media Card Reader (Optional) Use the Media Card Reader to transfer data directly to your computer. The Media Card Reader supports the following memory types: • xD-Picture Card • SmartMedia (SMC) • CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II) • MicroDrive Card • SecureDigital Card (SD) • MultiMediaCard (MMC) • Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro) For information on installing a Media Card Reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on page 134.
book.book Page 31 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 1 xD-Picture Card and SmartMedia (SMC) 2 CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II) and MicroDrive Card 3 Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro) 4 SecureDigital Card (SD)/ MultiMediaCard (MMC) To use the Media Card Reader: 1 Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion. 2 Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector. If you encounter resistance, do not force the media or card.
book.book Page 32 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 1 2* 3* 4 *May not be present on your computer 1 optional DVI adapter 2 DVI (white) connector 3 TV-OUT connector 4 VGA (blue) connector Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97. 2 Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.
book.book Page 33 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV. 4 Connect the VGA or DVI monitor. Changing the Display Settings 1 After you connect the monitor(s) or TV, turn on the computer. The Microsoft® Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor. 2 Enable extended desktop mode in the display settings.
book.book Page 34 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM NOTICE: The graphics card in your computer is installed in the PCI Express x16 slot. When there is a card in this slot and you add a peripheral that does not support s3 suspend, your computer will not enter standby mode. To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity: 1 Click the Start button, then click Control Panel. 2 Define your standby settings on the Power Schemes Tab and Advanced Tab.
book.book Page 35 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Power Options Properties Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the Power Options Properties window. To access the Power Options Properties window: 1 Click Start Control Panel Maintenance. Pick a category Performance and 2 Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options. 3 Define your power settings on the Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab, and Hibernate tab.
book.book Page 36 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM If you want to change the default settings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the Turn off monitor, Turn off hard disks, System stand by, or System hibernates field, and then select a time-out from the displayed list. Changing the time-out for a scheme field permanently changes the default settings for that scheme, unless you click Save As and enter a new name for the changed scheme.
book.book Page 37 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Windows Vista has three main default power management modes: • Balanced • Power Saver • High Performance Dell has added a fourth, Dell-Recommended mode that sets power management to the most typical settings for the majority of our customers. This is the active Power Plan. Standby Mode Standby mode is the default "off" state for Windows Vista. Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out.
book.book Page 38 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Hibernate Mode Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits from hibernate mode, the desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered hibernate mode. Windows Vista may mask Hibernate from the user if Hybrid Sleep is enabled. See Help and Support for further information - search for Hibernate.
book.book Page 39 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Power Management Modes Windows Vista has three main default power management modes: • Balanced • Power Saver • High Performance Dell has added a fourth Dell-Recommended mode that sets power management to the most typical settings for the majority of our customers.This is the active Power Plan for all Dell shipping configurations. To change the default settings for a plan: 1 Click Start and click Control Panel.
book.book Page 40 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM CAUTION: There are many different settings in the Power Options, Advanced Settings dialog box. Use care when making setting changes. Click Start and then click Help and Support to explore the capabilities of the advanced settings. Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet Technology Cool 'n' Quiet™ technology controls your computer's processor performance automatically, dynamically adjusting the operating frequency and voltage, according to the task at hand.
book.book Page 41 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM The drives in a RAID configuration should be the same size in order to ensure that the larger drive does not contain unallocated (and therefore unusable) space. RAID Level 1 Configuration RAID level 1 uses a data-redundancy storage technique known as mirroring to enhance data integrity. When data is written to the primary drive, the data is also duplicated, or mirrored, on the second drive in the configuration.
book.book Page 42 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Configuring Your Hard Drives for RAID Your computer can be configured for RAID, even if you did not select a RAID configuration when the computer was purchased. For an explanation of RAID levels and their requirements, see "About RAID Configurations (For Windows Vista only)" on page 40. For information on how to install a hard drive, see "Hard Drives" on page 122.
book.book Page 43 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Using the Nvidia MediaShield ROM Utility NOTICE: The following procedure will result in the loss of all data on your hard drive(s). Back up any data you want to keep before continuing. Hard drives of any size may be used to create a RAID configuration. Ideally, however, the drives should be of equal size to avoid unallocated or unused space.
book.book Page 44 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 10 Press to return to the previous screen. 11 Press to exit the RAID BIOS. Using Nvidia MediaShield Nvidia MediaShield allows you to view and manage RAID configurations. Rebuilding a RAID Configuration If one of the hard drives in a RAID array fails, you can rebuild the array by restoring the data to a replacement drive. NOTE: Rebuilding an array can only be performed on RAID 1 configurations. 1 Launch Nvidia MediaShield.
book.book Page 45 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM You can transfer data, such as:. • E-mail messages • Toolbar settings • Window sizes • Internet bookmarks To prepare the new computer for the file transfer: 1 Click Start, point to All Programs Accessories click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. System Tools, and then The Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears. 2 Click Next. 3 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer, and then click Next.
book.book Page 46 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM To transfer data to the new computer: 1 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next. 2 On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your files and settings, and then click Next. 3 The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer. 4 When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished screen appears.
book.book Page 47 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to a Network Adapter NOTICE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the computer. Do not plug the network cable into the modem connector on the computer. Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack. 1 Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.
book.book Page 48 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 Click Checklist for creating a network. NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP SP1. 4 Complete the checklist and required preparations. 5 Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen. Windows Vista®: 1 Click Start and then click Network. 2 This brings up the Network dialog screen. Click Network and Sharing Center.
book.book Page 49 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM • Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable (or satellite) modem connections. • Wireless LAN connections that provide Internet access using Bluetooth® wireless technology. If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection.
book.book Page 50 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM • If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click Set up my connection manually. • If you have a CD, click Use the CD I got from an ISP. NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP. 5 Click Next. If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
book.book Page 51 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Solving Problems CAUTION: Some of the parts described in this chapter may be replaceable by a certified service technician only and are not custom replaceable. Troubleshooting Tips Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer: • If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.
book.book Page 52 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Drive Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE — Windows XP: Click Start and click My Computer. Windows Vista®: Click Start and click Computer. If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive, is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses.
book.book Page 53 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM CD and DVD drive problems NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD or DVD. NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives. ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL — • Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
book.book Page 54 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Hard drive problems RUN CHECK DISK — Windows XP: 1 Click Start and click My Computer. 2 Right-click Local Disk C:. 3 Click Properties Tools Check Now. 4 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors and click Start. Windows Vista: 1 Click Start and click Computer. 2 Right-click Local Disk C:. 3 Click Properties. 4 Click the Tools tab. 5 Under Error-checking, click Check Now. 6 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors. 7 Click Start.
book.book Page 55 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION — CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK — CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK — USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE — • Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem. (The jack has either a green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.) • Ensure that you feel a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.
book.book Page 56 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM VE R I F Y T H A T T H E M O D E M I S C O M M U N I C A T I N G W I T H W I N D O W S — Windows XP: 1 Click Start Control Panel Printers and Other Hardware Phone and Modem Options Modems. 2 Click the COM port for your modem Properties Diagnostics Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. Windows Vista: 1 Click Start and click Control Panel. 2 Click Hardware and Sound. 3 Click Phone and Modem Options and click the Modems tab.
book.book Page 57 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM A R E Q U I R E D . D L L F I L E W A S N O T F O U N D — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program: Windows® XP: 1 Click Start Control Panel Add or Remove Programs Programs and Features. 2 Select the program you want to remove. 3 Click Uninstall. 4 See the program documentation for installation instructions. Windows Vista®: 1 Click Start , click Control Panel, and then click Programs.
book.book Page 58 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Keyboard Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE — • Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer. • Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 98), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer.
book.book Page 59 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM The computer stops responding NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer. A program stops responding END THE PROGRAM — 1 Press simultaneously.
book.book Page 60 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD — Windows XP: The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-XP operating system environments. 1 Click Start All Programs Accessories Program Compatibility Wizard Next. 2 Follow the instructions on the screen.
book.book Page 61 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Other software problems CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION — • Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer. • Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information. • Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
book.book Page 62 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Media Card Reader Problems NO DRIVE LETTER IS ASSIGNED — When Microsoft® Windows® Operating System detects the Media Card Reader, the device is automatically assigned a drive letter as the next logical drive after all other physical drives in the system. If the next logical drive after the physical drives is mapped to a network drive, Windows Operating System does not automatically assign a drive letter to the Media Card Reader.
book.book Page 63 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM FLEXBAY DEVICE IS DISABLED — There is a FlexBay disable option in the BIOS setup that appears only when the FlexBay device is installed. If the FlexBay device is physically installed, but it is not running, check to see if it is enabled in the BIOS setup. Memory Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
book.book Page 64 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Mouse Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. C L E A N T H E M O U S E — See "Mouse" on page 179 for instructions on cleaning the mouse. CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE — 1 Remove mouse extension cables, if used, and connect the mouse directly to the computer. 2 Reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.
book.book Page 65 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS — Windows® XP: 1 Click Start, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware. 2 Click Mouse. 3 Adjust the settings as needed. Windows Vista®: 1 Click Start , click Control Panel, and then click Hardware and Sound. 2 Click Mouse. 3 Try adjusting the settings. R E I N S T A L L T H E M O U S E D R I V E R — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 84.
book.book Page 66 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM C H E C K Y O U R N E T W O R K S E T T I N G S — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning. R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 87.
book.book Page 67 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S S T E A D Y A M B E R — Power problem or internal device malfunction. • Ensure that the 12-volt power connector (12V) is securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 102). • Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 102).
book.book Page 68 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS — • See the printer documentation for cable connection information. • Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer (see "Setting Up a Printer" on page 22). 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.
book.book Page 69 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Scanner Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer. C H E C K T H E S C A N N E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N — See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.
book.book Page 70 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Sound and Speaker Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. No sound from speakers NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been listening to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.
book.book Page 71 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM R E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D D R I V E R — See "Manually Reinstalling Drivers" on page 86. R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" on page 87. 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 (see "Front View of the Computer" on page 15).
book.book Page 72 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM If the screen is blank CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION — • Ensure that the graphics cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer. If an optional video card is installed, check that the monitor cable is connected to the card, rather than the video connector on the system board. • If you are using a graphics extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is defective.
book.book Page 73 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM M O V E T H E M O N I T O R A W A Y F R O M E X T E R N A L P O W E R S O U R C E S — Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky." Turn off nearby devices to check for interference. ROTATE THE MONITOR TO ELIMINATE SUNLIGHT GLARE AND POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS — Windows® XP: 1 Click Start, click Control Panel, and then click Appearance and Themes.
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book.book Page 75 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Troubleshooting Tools Power Lights CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. The power button light (bi-color LED) located on the front of the computer illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states: • • • If the power light is off, the computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.
book.book Page 76 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM • • If the power light is blinking amber, the computer is receiving electrical power, a device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed. – Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 107). – Remove and then reinstall any cards (see "Cards" on page 111). – Remove and then reinstall the graphics card, if applicable (see "Cards" on page 111).
book.book Page 77 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Code (repetitive short beeps) Description Suggested Remedy 3 Possible motherboard failure. Contact Dell. 1 BIOS checksum failure. Possible motherboard failure. Contact Dell. 5 Real time clock failure. Possible battery failure or motherboard failure. 1 Replace the battery (see "Replacing the RAM Read/Write failure. 1 Ensure that no special memory No memory modules are detected. 1 If you have two or more memory 4 2 6 Video BIOS Test Failure.
book.book Page 78 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM System Messages NOTE: If the message you received is not listed in the table, see the documentation for either the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared. A L E R T ! P R E V I O U S A T T E M P T S A T B O O T I N G T H I S S YS T E M H A V E F A I L E D A T CHECKPOINT [NNNN].
book.book Page 79 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM N O B O O T D E V I C E A V A I L A B L E — No bootable partition on HDD or Not a bootable floppy in floppy driver, or HDD/Floppy cable loose, or No bootable device exists. • 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 cables are connected and that the drive is installed properly and partitioned as a boot device.
book.book Page 80 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Dell Diagnostics CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. When to Use the Dell Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in Lockups and Software Problems (see "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 58) and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
book.book Page 81 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media 1 Insert the Drivers and Utilities media. 2 Shut down and restart the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press immediately. 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: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only.
book.book Page 82 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 2 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 devices in the computer. Option Function Express Test Performs a quick test of devices in the system. This typically can take 10 to 20 minutes. Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices in the system. This typically can take an hour or more.
book.book Page 83 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Tab Function Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device. The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from system setup, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names of all the components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.
book.book Page 84 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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. NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this procedure. Windows® XP: 1 Click Start, then click Control Panel. 2 Click System. 3 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab. 4 Click Device Manager. Windows Vista®: 1 Click Start and right-click Computer.
book.book Page 85 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab. 4 Click Device Manager. 5 Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties. 6 Click the Drivers tab Roll Back Driver. Windows Vista: 1 Click Start and right-click Computer. 2 Click Properties Device Manager. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear.
book.book Page 86 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next. NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media 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 by the Drivers and Utilities media. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the Drivers and Utilities media program. For drivers information, see the documentation that came with the device.
book.book Page 87 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Windows Vista: 1 Click Start and right-click Computer. 2 Click Properties Device Manager. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager. 3 Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example, Audio or Video). 4 Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.
book.book Page 88 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 Select the option that best describes the problem and follow the troubleshooting steps. NOTE: Windows Vista is a new operating system, so many older devices may not have drivers or applications for Windows Vista. Check with your hardware manufacturer for further information on their device. NOTE: If you do not find the answer in the items categorized in Troubleshooting, you can get Online Help - type in your question in the Search Help.
book.book Page 89 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Creating a Restore Point NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them. NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this procedure. Windows XP: 1 Click Start All Programs Accessories System Tools System Restore. 2 Click Create a restore point. 3 Click Next and follow the remaining on-screen prompts. Windows Vista: 1 Click Start and click Control Panel.
book.book Page 90 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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. NOTE: You must be logged in with Administrator privileges to perform this procedure. Windows XP: 1 Click Start, point to All Programs click System Restore.
book.book Page 91 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Using Dell PC Restore and Dell Factory Image Restore NOTICE: Using Dell PC Restore or Dell Factory Image Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using these options. Use PC Restore or Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
book.book Page 92 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 6 When prompted, click Yes. The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the screens that appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that appeared the first time the computer was turned on. 7 Click Next. The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts. 8 After the computer restarts, click OK. Windows Vista: Dell Factory Image Restore 1 Turn on the computer.
book.book Page 93 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Removing Dell PC Restore NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from your computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your computer’s operating system. Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer.
book.book Page 94 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Using the Operating System CD Before You Begin If you are considering reinstalling the Windows operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows Device Driver Rollback. (see "Using Windows Device Driver Rollback" on page 84).
book.book Page 95 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. 2 Insert the Operating System CD. Click Exit if the Install Windows Vista message appears. 3 Restart the computer. Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears. If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again. NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only.
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book.book Page 97 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Removing and Installing Parts CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. CAUTION: Do not operate your computer with any cover(s) (including computer covers, bezels, filler brackets, front-panel inserts, and so on.) removed.
book.book Page 98 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Turning Off Your Computer NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off your computer. Windows® XP: 1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. 2 Click Start Turn Off Computer Turn off. 3 Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off.
book.book Page 99 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its pull-tab, not on the cable itself. Some cables have connectors with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
book.book Page 100 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 Remove the two thumbscrews securing the cover, using a flat-blade screwdriver. 2 1 3 1 computer cover 2 front of computer 3 thumbscrew (2) 4 Release the computer cover by pulling it away from the front of the computer and lifting it up. 5 Set the cover aside in a secure location.
book.book Page 101 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Inside View of Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
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book.book Page 105 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Pin Number Signal name Wire Color Wire Size 1 3.3 V Orange 20 AWG 2 3.3 V Orange 20 AWG 3 RTN Black 20 AWG 4 5V Red 20 AWG 5 RTN Black 20 AWG 6 5V Red 20 AWG 7 RTN Black 20 AWG 8 POK Gray 22 AWG 9 5 V AUX Purple 20 AWG 10 +12 V Yellow 20 AWG 11 +12 V Yellow 20 AWG 12 3.3 V Orange 20 AWG 13 3.
book.book Page 106 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM DC Power Connector P2 3 1 4 2 Pin Number Signal Name 18-AWG Wire 1 GND Black 2 GND Black 3 +12 VADC Yellow 4 +12 VADC Yellow DC Power Connectors P3, P5, P8, and P9 Pin Number Signal name 18-AWG Wire 1 +3.
book.book Page 107 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM DC Power Connector P7 Pin Number Signal Name 22-AWG Wire 1 +5 VDC Red 2 GND Black 3 GND Black 4 +12 VADC Yellow Memory You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For additional information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 167. NOTICE: Do not install ECC or buffered memory modules.
book.book Page 108 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Memory Installation Guidelines • DIMM connectors must be populated in a numerical order, beginning with connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2, then connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4. If a single DIMM is installed, you must install it in connector DIMM_1. • For best performance, memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology.
book.book Page 109 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Installing Memory CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: Before installing memory, you must remove the PCI Express x16 card. See "Cards" on page 111. NOTICE: 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.
book.book Page 110 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector. 3 2 1 4 1 cutouts (2) 2 memory module 3 notch 4 crossbar NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector while you apply equal force to each end of the module. 4 Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
book.book Page 111 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 8 Right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties. 9 Click the General tab. 10 To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed. Removing Memory CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: Before removing memory, you must remove the PCI Express x16 card. See "Cards" on page 111.
book.book Page 112 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM PCI and PCI Express Cards Your computer supports two PCI cards, one PCI Express x16 card and one PCI Express x1 card. • If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. • If you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing a PCI/PCI Express Card" on page 116. • If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
book.book Page 113 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 Remove the screw holding the card retention bracket. 4 Lift the card retention bracket and set it aside in a secure location. 5 If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. 6 If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. • For PCI card, grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.
book.book Page 114 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 4 2 5 6 1 1 alignment bar 2 fully-seated card 3 not fully seated card 4 alignment guide 5 bracket within slot 6 bracket caught outside of slot 9 If you are installing the PCI Express card into the x16 card connector, position the card so the securing slot is aligned with the securing tab. 10 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.
book.book Page 115 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 11 Replace the card retention bracket ensuring that: • The guide clamp is aligned with the guide notch. • The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar. • The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.
book.book Page 116 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 13 Connect any cables that should be attached to the card. See the documentation for the card for information about the card’s cable connections. NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.
book.book Page 117 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. • • For PCI card, grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector. For PCI Express card, pull the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out of its connector. 6 If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening.
book.book Page 118 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Bezel CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. Removing the Bezel 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97.
book.book Page 119 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 Grasp and lift the bezel grips one at a time to release it from the front panel. 4 Rotate and pull the bezel away from the front of the computer to release bezel clamps from bezel clamp slot. 5 Set aside the bezel in a secure location. Replacing the Bezel 1 Align and insert the bezel clamps in the bezel clamp slots.
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book.book Page 121 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Recommended Drive Cable Connections • Connect serial ATA hard drives to connectors labeled "SATA0" or "SATA1" on the system board. • Connect serial ATA CD or DVD drives to connectors labeled "SATA2" or "SATA3" on the system board. Connecting Drive Cables When you install a drive, you connect two cables—a DC power cable and a data cable—to the back of the drive.
book.book Page 122 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA data cable, disconnect the cable using the pull-tab. The serial ATA interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector.
book.book Page 123 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 1 2 3 4 1 hard drive 2 power cable 4 system board connector 5 screws (4) 3 serial ATA data cable 5 Remove the four screws securing the hard drive. 6 Slide the drive out away from the front of the computer. 7 If removing this drive changes the drive configuration, then be sure to reflect these changes in system setup.
book.book Page 124 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Installing a Hard Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97. 2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 99). 3 Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer. 4 Slide the hard drive into the hard drive bay. 5 Align the slots in the hard drive with the guides in the hard drive bay.
book.book Page 125 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 8 Connect the data cable to the system board. 9 Check all cables to be certain that they are properly connected and firmly seated. 10 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer. 11 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
book.book Page 126 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 1 2 3 4 1 second hard drive (optional) 2 serial ATA data cable 4 system board connector 5 screws (4) 3 power cable 6 Replace and tighten the four screws to secure the hard drive. 7 Connect the power and data cables to the drive. 8 Connect the data cable to the system board. 9 Check all cables to be certain that they are properly connected and firmly seated. 10 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164).
book.book Page 127 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 11 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on. 12 See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation. 13 Check the system setup for drive configuration changes (see "Entering System Setup" on page 172). Floppy Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
book.book Page 128 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 *1 2 3 4 *Not present on all computers. 1 floppy drive 2 data cable 4 system board connector 5 screws (2) 3 power cable 4 Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive. NOTE: If you have installed a PCI Express x16 card, this card may cover the floppy-drive connectors. Remove this card before disconnecting the floppydrive cables (see "Removing a PCI/PCI Express Card" on page 116).
book.book Page 129 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 8 If you are not replacing the drive, reinstall the drive panel insert (see "Media Card Reader" on page 133). 9 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 119). 10 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164). 11 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on. 12 Check the system setup for the appropriate diskette Drive Option changes (see "Entering System Setup" on page 172).
book.book Page 130 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 6 5 1 2 3 4 1 floppy drive 2 data cable 3 power cable 4 system board connector 5 screws (2) 6 screw slots (2) 10 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to avoid blocking airflow between the fan and cooling vents. 11 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 119). 12 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164).
book.book Page 131 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 13 Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on. See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation. 14 Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 172) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive option. 15 Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 80).
book.book Page 132 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Replacing the Drive Panel Insert 2 1 1 drive panel insert (optional) 2 back of the computer 1 Align the drive panel insert along the edges of the empty slot for the floppy drive. 2 Push the panel insert. Drive panel insert is locked in place. NOTE: To comply with FCC regulations, it is recommended that you replace the drive panel insert whenever the floppy drive is removed from the computer.
book.book Page 133 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Media Card Reader CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. Removing a Media Card Reader 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97.
book.book Page 134 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 4 Disconnect the FlexBay USB cable and the power cable from the back of the Media Card Reader and from the internal USB connector on the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 102). 5 Remove the two screws securing the Media Card Reader. 6 Slide the Media Card Reader out through the front of the computer. 7 If you are not reinstalling the Media Card Reader, replace the drive panel insert (see "Replacing the Drive Panel Insert" on page 132).
book.book Page 135 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 6 5 1 2 3 4 1 Media Card Reader 2 data cable 3 power cable 4 system board connector 5 screws (2) 6 screw slots (2) 10 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 119 11 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164). 12 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
book.book Page 136 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM CD or DVD Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. Removing a CD or DVD Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97.
book.book Page 137 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 6 Remove the two screws securing the CD or DVD drive. 7 Slide the CD or DVD drive out through the front of the computer. 8 If you are not replacing the drive, replace the drive panel insert (see "Media Card Reader" on page 133). 9 Replace the drive panel insert (see "Replacing the Drive Panel Insert" on page 132). 10 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 119). 11 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164).
book.book Page 138 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 6 1 2 3 4 1 CD or DVD drive 2 data cable 3 power cable 4 system board connector 5 screws (2) 6 screw slots (2) 9 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 119). 10 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.
book.book Page 139 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Installing a Second CD or DVD Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97. 2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 99). 3 Remove the bezel (see "Removing the Bezel" on page 118). 4 Align the tip of a Phillips screwdriver with the slot on the break-away metal plate and rotate the screwdriver outwards to break the metal plate. 5 Gently slide the drive into place.
book.book Page 140 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 6 7 5 1 4 2 3 1 CD or DVD drive 2 power cable 4 data cable 7 screw slots (2) 3 system board connector 5 second CD or DVD drive 6 screws (2) 10 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to avoid blocking airflow between the fan and cooling vents. 11 Replace and tighten the two screws securing the CD or DVD drive. 12 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 119).
book.book Page 141 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 15 Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 172) and select the appropriate Drive option. 16 Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 80). Replacing the CD or DVD Panel Insert 2 1 1 CD or DVD panel insert (optional) 2 back of the computer 1 Align the CD or DVD panel insert along the edges of the empty slot for CD or DVD. 2 Push the panel. CD or DVD panel insert is locked in place.
book.book Page 142 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Battery Replacing the Battery CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: 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.
book.book Page 143 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 7 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. 8 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on. 9 Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 172) and restore the settings you recorded in step 1.
book.book Page 144 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 Remove the four screws that attach the power supply to the back of the computer chassis. 1 1 power supply 2 2 screws (4) 6 Slide the power supply towards the front of the computer and lift it out. 7 Place and slide the replacement power supply toward the back of the computer. 8 Replace and tighten all screws that secure the power supply to the back of the computer chassis.
book.book Page 145 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Processor CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: 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.
book.book Page 146 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 1 2 7 3 4 6 5 1 fan 2 fan cover 3 heat sink 4 bracket 5 clamp grip 6 bracket projection 7 clamp lever NOTICE: Unless a new heat sink is required for the new processor, reuse the original heat sink assembly when you replace the processor. 7 Pull the release lever straight up until the processor is released.
book.book Page 147 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 1 2 3 1 processor 2 release lever 3 socket NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you remove the processor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the processor. 8 Remove the processor from the socket. Leave the release lever extended in the release position so that the socket is ready for the new processor. NOTICE: After removing the processor, be careful not to get any thermal grease on the processor pins.
book.book Page 148 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Installing the Processor NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97. NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you unpack the processor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the processor. 2 Unpack the new processor, being careful not to bend any of the processor pins. 3 Extend the release lever on the socket fully.
book.book Page 149 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM NOTICE: To avoid damage, ensure that the processor aligns properly with the socket, and do not use excessive force when you install the processor. 5 Set the processor lightly in the socket and ensure that the processor is positioned correctly. 6 While lightly pressing down on the processor, rotate the release lever back toward the system board until it snaps into place, securing the processor. 7 Clean the thermal grease from the bottom of the heat sink.
book.book Page 150 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 7 6 1 5 2 4 3 1 clamp lever 2 bracket projection 3 clamp grip 4 bracket 5 heat sink 6 fan cover 7 fan 10 Connect any cables disconnected before removing the heat sink assembly. 11 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164). 12 Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on.
book.book Page 151 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM I/O Panel CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. CAUTION: The heat sink assembly, power supply, and other components may be very hot during normal operation.
book.book Page 152 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 1 2 3 4 1 I/O panel clamp 2 I/O panel 4 cables 5 I/O panel clamp slot 5 3 screw Installing the I/O Panel 1 Place the I/O panel into the slot. NOTICE: Take care not to damage the cable connectors and the cable routing clips when sliding the I/O panel into the computer. 2 Align and slide the I/O panel clamp in the I/O panel clamp slot. 3 Replace and tighten the screw that secures the I/O panel. 4 Reconnect the cables to the system board.
book.book Page 153 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 6 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164). 7 Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on. 8 Verify that the computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 80).
book.book Page 154 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Processor Fan CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. CAUTION: The heat sink assembly, power supply, and other components may be very hot during normal operation.
book.book Page 155 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 1 2 3 1 fan 2 fan cover 3 heat sink 8 Hold the heat sink firmly in one hand and using moderate force, pull up the fan cover to separate it from the heat sink.
book.book Page 156 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 1 4 2 3 1 fan 2 fan cover guide (2) 3 fan cover 4 fan cover grips (4) NOTICE: Do not touch the fan blades to avoid damage to the fan blades. 9 Pull outwards the two fan cover grips on one side and slightly lift the fan from the fan cover. 10 Pull outwards the other two fan cover grips on the other side and lift the fan to release the fan from the fan cover.
book.book Page 157 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Installing the Processor Fan NOTICE: When reinstalling the fan, ensure that you do not pinch the wires that run between the system board and the fan. 1 Align the holes in the fan with the guides on the fan cover. 2 Press the fan and fan cover together till the fan cover grips snap in place.
book.book Page 158 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 3 Align and press the heat sink and fan assembly till both snap in place. 1 2 3 1 fan 2 fan cover 3 heat sink 4 Replace the heat sink assembly (see step 9 of "Installing the Processor" on page 148). 5 Replace the cables that were removed from the routing clips on top of the processor fan assembly.
book.book Page 159 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 6 Connect the processor fan cable to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 102). NOTICE: Ensure that the fan is correctly seated and secure. 7 Replace the cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164). 8 Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on. Chassis Fan CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
book.book Page 160 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Removing the Chassis Fan 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97. 2 1 1 chassis fan 2 screws (4) 2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 99). 3 Disconnect the chassis fan cable from the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 102). 4 Remove the four screws securing the chassis fan. 5 Slide the chassis fan towards the front of the computer and lift it up.
book.book Page 161 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Replacing the Chassis Fan 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 97. 2 1 1 chassis fan 2 screws (4) 2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 99). 3 Slide the chassis fan in place towards the back of the computer. 4 Connect the chassis fan cable to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 102). 5 Tighten the four screws to secure the chassis fan.
book.book Page 162 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM System Board Removing the System Board CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, laceration by moving fan blades, or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. CAUTION: The heat sink assembly, power supply, and other components may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that they have had sufficient time to cool before you touch them.
book.book Page 163 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM System Board Screws 1 2 1 screws (8) 2 system board 9 Place the system board that you just removed next to the replacement system board to compare and ensure they are identical.
book.book Page 164 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Installing the System Board 1 Gently align the board into the chassis and slide it toward the back of the computer. 2 Using the eight screws, secure the system board to the chassis. 3 Replace the cables that you removed from the system board. 4 Replace the processor and the heat sink assembly (see "Installing the Processor" on page 148). NOTICE: Ensure that the heat sink assembly is correctly seated and secure.
book.book Page 165 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 6 Replace and tighten the two screws that secure the computer cover, using a flat-blade screwdriver. 4 1 3 2 1 computer cover tab 2 slot 3 computer cover 4 front of the computer 7 Move the computer to the upright position. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. NOTICE: Ensure that none of the air-vents of the system are blocked.
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book.book Page 168 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Audio Type Realtec ALC888 (7.1 Channel audio) Expansion Bus Bus type PCI 2.3 PCI Express 1.0A SATA 1.0 and 2.0 USB 2.0 Bus speed PCI: 133 MB/s PCI Express: x1 slot bidirectional speed - 500 MB/s x16 slot bidirectional speed - 8GB/s SATA: 1.5 Gbps and 3.0 Gbps USB: 480 Mbps high speed, 12 Mbps full speed, 1.
book.book Page 169 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Drives Externally accessible: Bays one 3.5-inch drive bay (FlexBay) two 5.25-inch drive bays Available devices Serial ATA drives (4), floppy drive, USB memory devices, CD or DVD drive, and Media Card Reader Internally accessible: two bays for 1-inch high serial ATA hard drives Connectors External connectors: Video 15-hole connector Network adapter RJ-45 connector USB four front-panel and four back-panel USB 2.
book.book Page 170 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Connectors (continued) Memory four 240-pin connectors Power 12V one 4-pin connector Power one 24-pin connector Controls and Lights Front of computer: Power button push button Power light blue light — Blinking blue in sleep state; solid blue for power-on state amber light — The blinking amber indicates a problem with the system board. A solid amber light when the system does not boot indicates that the system board cannot start initialization.
book.book Page 171 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Power (continued) Voltage (see the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide for important voltage setting information) Coin cell battery 115/230 Vac, 50/60 Hz, 7 A/4 A 3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell Physical Height 36.2 cm (14.2 inches) Width 17.0 cm (6.7 inches) Depth 43.5 cm (17.1 inches) Weight 12.7 kg (28.
book.book Page 172 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM System Setup Overview Use System Setup as follows: • To change the system configuration information after you add, change, or remove any hardware in your computer • To set or change a user-selectable option such as the user password • To read the current amount of memory or set the type of hard drive installed Before you use system setup, it is recommended that you write down the system setup screen information for future reference.
book.book Page 173 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM System Setup Screen The system setup screen displays current or changeable configuration information for your computer. Information on the screen is divided into four areas: the menu at the top, the main window, the Item Help field on the right, and key functions listed on the bottom. Options List — This field appears on the top side of the system setup window.
book.book Page 174 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Advanced CPU Type Displays the Type of Processor installed in the system. CPU Speed Displays CPU Speed. Cache RAM Displays the amount of Cache RAM available. Frame Buffer Displays the amount of Frame Buffer available. Advanced Chipset Features Displays the Video Memory size. Integrated peripherals Displays information about peripherals configuration such as Serial ATA, HD Audio, Onboard nVidia LAN and Onboard LAN boot ROM.
book.book Page 175 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Boot Sequence This feature allows you to change the Boot Device Property for devices. Option Settings • Bootable Hard Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the hard drive. • Onboard Floppy Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the floppy drive. • Onboard CD-ROM Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the CD drive. • Integrated NIC — The computer attempts to boot using the integrated NIC.
book.book Page 176 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 4 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the item you want to change, and then press . 5 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select the boot device you want to change, and then press . 6 Press and then press to exit system setup and resume the boot process.
book.book Page 177 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 5 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 164). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. 6 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. Clearing CMOS Settings CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
book.book Page 178 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Flashing the BIOS The BIOS may require flashing when an update is available or when replacing the system board. 1 Turn on the computer. 2 Locate the BIOS update file for your computer at the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. 3 Click Download Now to download the file. 4 If the Export Compliance Disclaimer window appears, click Yes, I Accept this Agreement. The File Download window appears. 5 Click Save this program to disk, and then click OK.
book.book Page 179 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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 Monitor CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.
book.book Page 180 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Floppy Drive NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign the heads, which prevents the drive from operating. Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain pretreated floppy disks to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation.
book.book Page 181 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Dell provides limited technical support for the computer and any "Dell-installed" software and peripherals1. Support for third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer, including those purchased and/or installed through Dell Software and Peripherals, Readyware, and Custom Factory Integration2.
book.book Page 182 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1 This device may not cause harmful interference. 2 This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. NOTICE: The FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell Inc. could void your authority to operate this equipment.
book.book Page 183 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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 Tools" on page 75 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing.
book.book Page 184 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You Call" on page 186, and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com. DellConnect DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and support associate to access your computer through a broadband connection, diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision. For more information, go to support.dell.com and click DellConnect.
book.book Page 185 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM • 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.
book.book Page 186 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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 188. 2 Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.
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book.book Page 188 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Contacting Dell For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW.DELL (800.999.3355). 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. Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your area.
book.book Page 189 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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.
book.book Page 190 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM B battery life span — The length of time (years) during which a portable computer battery is able to be depleted and recharged. battery operating time — The length of time (minutes or hours) that a portable computer battery powers the computer. BIOS — basic input/output system — A program (or utility) that serves as an interface between the computer hardware and the operating system.
book.book Page 191 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external to the processor or incorporated into the processor architecture. carnet — An international customs document that facilitates temporary imports into foreign countries. Also known as a merchandise passport. CD-R — CD 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.
book.book Page 192 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM device — Hardware such as a disk drive, printer, or keyboard that is installed in or connected to your computer. device driver — See driver. DIMM — dual in-line memory module — A circuit board with memory chips that connects to a memory module on the system board. DIN connector — A round, six-pin connector that conforms to DIN (Deutsche Industrie-Norm) standards; it is typically used to connect PS/2 keyboard or mouse cable connectors.
book.book Page 193 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM DVD+RW drive — drive that can read DVDs and most CD media and write to DVD+RW (rewritable DVDs) discs. DVI — digital video interface — A standard for digital transmission between a computer and a digital video display. E ECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special circuitry for testing the accuracy of data as it passes in and out of memory.
book.book Page 194 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM F Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling point of water. 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.
book.book Page 195 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM H hard drive — A drive that reads and writes data on a hard disk. The terms hard drive and hard disk are often used interchangeably. 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.
book.book Page 196 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway assigned to a specific device so that the device can communicate with the processor. Each device connection must be assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share the same IRQ assignment, you cannot operate both devices simultaneously. ISP — Internet service provider — A company that allows you to access its host server to connect directly to the Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access websites.
book.book Page 197 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM MB — megabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB 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.
book.book Page 198 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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.
book.book Page 199 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two devices through the processor as part of the data path. pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are arranged in rows and columns to create an image. A video resolution, such as 800 x 600, is expressed as the number of pixels across by the number of pixels up and down. Plug-and-Play — The ability of the computer to automatically configure devices.
book.book Page 200 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines are recharged (sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency). The higher the refresh rate, the less video flicker can be seen by the human eye. resolution — The sharpness and clarity of an image produced by a printer or displayed on a monitor. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image.
book.book Page 201 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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. setup program — A program that is used to install and configure hardware and software. The setup.exe or install.exe program comes with most Windows software packages. Setup program differs from system setup.
book.book Page 202 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM 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.
book.book Page 203 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM broadband devices (DSL and cable modems), imaging devices, or storage devices. Devices are plugged directly in to a 4-pin socket on your computer or in to a multi-port hub that plugs in to your computer. USB devices can be connected and disconnected while the computer is turned on, and they can also be daisy-chained together. UTP — unshielded twisted pair — Describes a type of cable used in most telephone networks and some computer networks.
book.book Page 204 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM W W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt. WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for 1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours. wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the Windows Control Panel.
book.book Page 205 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM Index A audio.
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book.book Page 208 Friday, April 4, 2008 12:10 PM memory installing, 109 problems, 63 messages error, 56 modem problems, 54 monitor blank, 72 clone mode, 33 connect DVI, 31-32 connect TV, 31-32 connect two, 31-32 connect VGA, 31-32 display settings, 33 extended desktop mode, 33 hard to read, 72 motherboard.
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