Dell™ Dimension™ 4500C front door breakaway hinge power button IEEE 1394 connector* hard-drive light CD or DVD drive light PC Card connectors (2)** breakaway hinge USB 2.0 connectors (2) headphone connector * On computers with integrated IEEE 1394 connectors. ** On computers with integrated PC Card connectors. parallel connector mouse connector serial connector integrated video connector (see the setup diagram) diagnostic lights (4) network connector keyboard connector USB 2.
Hints, Notices, and Cautions HINT: A HINT 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. Abbreviations and Acronyms For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Tell Me How help file. To access help files, see page 38.
Contents CAUTION: Safety Instructions General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 When Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . When Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge 12 . . . . . . . . . . . 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Copying CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using Easy CD Creator Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using Blank CD-R Discs or Blank CD-RW Discs Helpful Tips 31 . . . . . . . . 32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 How to Copy a CD Hyper-Threading 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 . . . . . . . . . .
Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 PC Card Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Adding Parts Front and Back View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Front View . Back View Reattaching the Front Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opening the Computer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Looking Inside Your Computer System Board . . . .
Contacting Dell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Regulatory Information . Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contents
CAUTION: Safety Instructions Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage. General • Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instructions closely. • To help prevent electric shock, plug the computer and device power cables into properly grounded electrical outlets.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m CAUTION: Safety Instructions (continued) 10 • To avoid shorting out your computer when disconnecting a network cable, first unplug the cable from the network adapter on the back of your computer, and then from the network jack. When reconnecting a network cable to your computer, first plug the cable into the network jack, and then into the network adapter.
When Using Your Computer As you use your computer, observe the following safe-handling guidelines. CAUTION: Do not operate your computer with any cover(s) (including computer covers, bezels, filler brackets, front-panel inserts, and so on) removed.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m When Using Your Computer (continued) When Working Inside Your Computer Before you open the computer cover, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated. CAUTION: Do not attempt to service the computer yourself, except as explained in your online Dell™ documentation or in instructions otherwise provided to you by Dell. Always follow installation and service instructions closely.
When Using Your Computer (continued) • Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a microprocessor chip by its edges, not by its pins. CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m When Using Your Computer (continued) Battery Disposal Your computer uses a lithium coin-cell battery. The lithium coin-cell battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it. However, should you need to replace it, see page 103. Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.
Finding Information for Your Computer What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • • • • ResourceCD A diagnostic program for my computer Drivers for my computer My computer documentation My device documentation You can use this CD to access documentation and reinstall drivers (see page 67).
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • How to reinstall my operating system Operating System CD If you reinstall your operating system, use the ResourceCD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • Tips on using Windows • How to clean my computer • How to use my mouse and keyboard Te l l M e H o w H e l p F i l e 1 Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support. 2 Click User and system guides, and then click User’s guides. 3 Click Tell Me How. • How to use Windows® XP • Documentation for my computer and devices Windows XP Help and Support Center 1 Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support.
F i n d i n g I n f o r ma t i o n f o r Yo u r C o m p u te r w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l .
1 SECTION 1 Setting Up Connecting the AC Adapter Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand Setting Up a Printer Connecting an IEEE 1394 Device (Optional) Transferring Information to a New Computer Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to the Internet Copying CDs Hyper-Threading Turning Off Your Computer
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Connecting the AC Adapter 1 Connect the AC adapter to the plug on the AC power cable. CAUTION: If you decide to connect the green ground wire to an electrical outlet, do not permit contact between the green ground wire and power leads because electrical shock, fire, or damage to your computer can occur (see the following figure). 2 If you decide not to connect the green ground wire to the electrical outlet, go to step 4.
Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand To attach the stand: 1 Rotate the computer to an upside-down position. 2 Insert the screw into the bottom of the stand. 3 Align the two tabs and the screw on the stand with the tab holes and screw hole in the bottom of the computer. screw HINT: Place your computer on a soft surface to prevent scratching the top cover. screw hole tabs (2) tab holes (2) 4 Tighten the screw.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m 5 Place the computer in the upright position. To remove the stand: 22 Setting Up 1 Turn the computer over so that the stand is at the top. 2 Loosen the screw and lift the stand away. 3 Place the computer in a horizontal position until you reattach the stand.
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 • Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance Printer Cable Your printer connects to your computer with either a USB cable or a parallel cable.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m parallel connector on computer connector on printer screws (2) clips (2) parallel printer cable notches (2) 4 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel. 5 Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer. Connecting a USB Printer HINT: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
USB connector on computer USB printer cable USB connector on printer Connecting an IEEE 1394 Device (Optional) IEEE 1394 devices can move large amounts of data between computers and peripheral devices and are ideal for use with multimedia devices, such as digital video cameras. Your computer provides a IEEE 1394 connector on both the front and back panels (see "Front and Back View of the Computer" on page 76 for locations.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m HINT: The connector can accept six-pin IEEE 1394 devices with the use of an adapter. IEEE 1394 connector IEEE 1394 cable Transferring Information to a New Computer The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer wizard to move data from the source computer to the new computer.
4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD, and then click Next. 5 When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source computer. To copy data from the old computer: 1 Insert the Windows XP Operating System CD into your CD or DVD drive. 2 On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks. 3 Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to a Network Adapter Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a network adapter installed and a network cable connected to it. To connect a network cable: HINT: Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure. 1 Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.
3 Click Checklist for creating a network. 4 Complete the checklist and required preparations, and return to the Network Setup Wizard. 5 Follow the instructions on the screen. Connecting to the Internet To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP), such as AOL or MSN. Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: • Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a phone line.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer. The New Connection Wizard appears. 3 Click Connect to the Internet.
The information in this section is based on the Roxio Easy CD Creator Basic documentation that came with your computer. See the following section, "Using Easy CD Creator Basic," for instructions on how to locate that documentation. To burn CDs, you need to use CD-burner software. Roxio Easy CD Creator Basic is your computer's CD-burner software.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Using Blank CD-R Discs or Blank CD-RW Discs Your CD-RW drive writes to two different types of recording media—CD-R and CD-RW discs. Use blank CD-R (CD-Recordable) disks to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R disc, you cannot write to that disc again without changing your method of recording (see the Roxio documentation for more information).
How to Copy a CD The procedure assumes that your computer is equipped with a single CD-RW drive (without an additional CD drive). If your computer is equipped with both types of drives, see the Roxio documentation for instructions on how to copy CDs from a CD drive to a CD-RW drive. 1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Roxio Easy CD Creator, and then click Project Selector. HINT: If you have a DVD/CD-RW combo drive and experience recording problems, check the Roxio support website at support.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Hyper-Threading HINT: HyperThreading is supported only on computers that have 3.06-GHz microprocessors (or higher) installed. Hyper-Threading is an Intel® technology that can enhance overall performance by allowing one physical microprocessor to function as two logical microprocessors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously.
2 SECTION 2 Solving Problems Finding Solutions Finding Help Information Battery Problems Drive Problems E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Error Messages General Problems IEEE 1394 Problems Keyboard Problems Mouse Problems Network Problems PC Card Problems Power Problems Printer Problems Scanner Problems Sound and Speaker Problems Video and Monitor Problems
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Finding Solutions Sometimes it’s difficult to figure out where to go for answers. Use this chart to help you quickly find the answers to your questions. See page 51. Press a key or move the mouse. See the Tell Me How help file for information on standby mode. Get technical assistance from Dell. See page 105. See page 43.
See page 55. See page 54. See page 52. See page 41. See page 48. See page 47. See page 39. See page 49. See page 53. See page 43. See page 44. See page 41. See page 41. See page 44.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Finding Help Information TO A C C E S S T H E Tell Me How H E L P F I L E 1 Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support. 2 Click User and system guides, and then click User’s guides. 3 Click Tell Me How. TO A C C E S S W I N D O W S H E L P 1 Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem, and then click the arrow icon. 3 Click the topic that describes your problem.
Drive Problems CD drive problems 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 the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. • Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up. • Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked. HINT: High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. This does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Problems writing to a CD-RW drive HINT: If you disable standby mode to write to a CD-RW drive, remember to reenable standby mode when you finish writing to the CD. TU R N O F F S T A N D B Y M O D E I N W I N D O W S B E F O R E W R I T I N G T O A C D -R W D I S C — For information on power conservation modes, see the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. To access help files, see page 38.
Hard drive problems RUN CHECK DISK 1 Click the Start button, and then click My Computer. 2 Right-click the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and then click Properties. 3 Click the Tools tab. 4 Under Error-checking, click Check Now. 5 Click Start. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S — See page 70.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m 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 ® 1 Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 3 Click Phone and Modem Options. 4 Click the Modems tab. 5 Click the COM port for your modem. 6 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.
Error Messages A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING C H A R A C T E R S : \ / : * ? “ < > | — Do not use these characters in filenames. A R E Q U I R E D .DLL 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: 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Add or Remove Programs. 4 Select the program you want to remove. 5 Click the Change or Remove Program icon.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m General Problems A program stops responding END THE PROGRAM 1 Press simultaneously. 2 Click Applications. 3 Click the program that is no longer responding. 4 Click End Task. TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If your computer locks up and 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.
A solid blue screen appears TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper shutdown, press the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer. The chkdsk program automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Other technical problems G O T O T H E D E L L S U P P O R T W E B S I T E — Go to support.dell.com for help with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions. The support website offers several different tools to help you, such as Dell Forum—a chat room where you can communicate with other Dell customers about their computers and gain access to technical support through e-mail.
CHECK YOUR OPERATING SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION FOR ADDITIONAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S — See page 70. IEEE 1394 Problems C H E C K T H E IEEE 13 94 D E V I C E — Ensure that the IEEE 1394 device is properly inserted into the connector. HINT: Check Windows Explorer to see if your device is listed as a drive. E N S U R E T H A T T H E I EEE 1394 D E V I C E I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y WINDOWS® 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE • Shut down the computer (see page 34), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer. • Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer. • Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins. • Remove keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.
I F Y O U C O N N E C T E D T H E M O U S E A F T E R T U R N I N G O N T H E C O M P U T E R, REMOVE THE POWER CABLE, AND THEN RECONNECT THE MOUSE C A B L E — If the mouse is connected after the power is turned on, the mouse appears to be nonfunctional. To make the mouse function properly: 1 While your computer is on, remove the power cable from the back of the computer. 2 Connect the mouse to the computer. 3 Reconnect the power cable. 4 Turn on your computer.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE BACK OF THE COMPUTER — No light indicates that there is no network communication. Try replacing the network cable.
Power Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. A D J U S T T H E P O W E R P R O P E R T I E S — Your computer may be in standby or hibernate mode. For information on power conservation modes, see the Tell Me How help file, or search for the keyword standby or hibernate in Windows® Help. To access help files, see page 38.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m 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 — The computer is receiving electrical power, but an internal power problem might exist. • Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location (see page 9). • Ensure that the microprocessor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 83). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 105).
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 the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 4 Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. 5 Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m VE R I F Y T H A T T H E S C A N N E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y M I C R O S O F T ® WINDOWS® 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 4 Click Scanners and Cameras. If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner. R E I N S T A L L T H E S C A N N E R D R I V E R — See the scanner documentation for instructions.
R U N T H E S P E A K E R D I A G N O S T I C S — Some speaker systems have selfdiagnostics. See the speaker documentation for diagnostics instructions. R E I N S T A L L T H E A U D I O ( S O U N D ) D R I V E R — See page 67. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S — See page 70. Video and Monitor Problems If the screen is blank C H E C K T H E M O N I T O R P O W E R L I G H T — If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m TE S T A N O T H E R M O N I T O R — If another monitor is available, connect it to the computer. C H E C K T H E D I A G N O S T I C L I G H T S — See page 60. If the screen is difficult to read C H E C K T H E M O N I T O R S E T T I N G S — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
R E S T O R E T H E R E C O M M E N D E D S E T T I N G S — Restore the original resolution and refresh rate settings. See the Tell Me How help file for instructions. To access help files, see page 38. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S — See page 70.
So l vi n g Pro b l em s w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l .
3 SECTION 3 Advanced Tr o u b l e s h o o t i n g Diagnostic Lights Using System Restore Dell Diagnostics Drivers Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Reinstalling Windows® XP
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Diagnostic Lights To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer is equipped with four lights on the back panel labeled "A," "B," "C," and "D" (see page 78). These lights can be yellow or green. When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. After the computer starts, the lights remain green. If the computer malfunctions, the color and sequence of the lights identify the problem.
Diagnostic Code G Y Y Y A B C D Y G Y Y A B C D Y G Y G A B C D Definition Corrective Action No memory modules are detected. • Reinstall all memory modules (see page 90) and then restart the computer. • To eliminate the possibility of a faulty memory connector, remove all memory modules, install one memory module (if the computer supports a single module), and restart the computer. Then move the memory module to another connector and restart the computer.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Diagnostic Code G G G Y A B C D Definition Corrective Action Other failure. • Ensure that the cables are properly connected from the hard drive, CD drive, and DVD drive to the system board (see page 83). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 105).
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools, and then click System Restore. 2 Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected, and then click Next. 3 Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer. The Select a Restore Point screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in bold. 4 Select a restore point, and then click Next.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Enabling System Restore If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled: 1 Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Performance and Maintenance. 3 Click System. 4 Click the System Restore tab. 5 Make sure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics NOTICE: Only use the Dell Diagnostics to test your Dell™ computer. Using this program with other computers can result in error messages. Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Dell Dimension ResourceCD as explained below. Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive 1 Shut down and restart the computer. 2 When the DELL® logo appears, press immediately.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m 9 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run. Dell Diagnostics Main Menu 1 HINT: The Service Tag number for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. 2 After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want. Option Function Express Test Performs a quick test of devices.
Tab Function Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device. The Dell Diagnostics obtains your configuration information for all devices from the system setup program, memory, and various internal tests and displays it 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. Parameters Allows you to customize the test by changing the test settings.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Identifying Drivers 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 In the Control Panel window, under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance. 3 In the Performance and Maintenance window, click System. 4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab. 5 Click Device Manager.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore (see page 62) to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver. Using the Dell Dimension ResourceCD If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see page 62) does not resolve the problem, then reinstall the driver from the Dell Dimension ResourceCD: 1 With the Windows desktop displayed, insert the ResourceCD into the CD or DVD drive.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Microsoft® Windows® XP IRQ conflicts occur if a device either is not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured. To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows XP: 1 Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Performance and Maintenance, and then click System. 3 Click the Hardware tab, and then click Device Manager.
5 In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer. 6 Click Next. Reinstalling Windows® XP Before reinstalling the Microsoft® Windows XP operating system to correct a problem, try correcting the problem by performing a Windows XP System Restore (see page 62). The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours, and you will need to reinstall your drivers, virus protection program, and other software when the process is complete.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m 6 Read the information in the License Agreement window, and then press on your keyboard to agree with the license information. 7 If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to recover your current Windows XP data, type r to select the repair option, and then go to step 16.
15 When the Welcome to Microsoft screen appears, click the green arrow icon at the bottom of the screen to continue. Follow the directions on the screen to finish. 16 Remove the CD from the drive. 17 Reinstall the appropriate drivers (see page 67). 18 Reinstall your virus protection software. 19 Reinstall your other software programs. See the documentation supplied with the software for instructions.
Advanced Troubleshooting w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l .
4 SECTION 4 A d d i n g Pa r t s Front and Back View of the Computer Reattaching the Front Door Opening the Computer Cover Looking Inside Your Computer Adding PC Cards (Optional) Adding Other Cards Adding or Replacing a Video Card Adding Memory Closing the Computer Cover
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Front and Back View of the Computer Front View HINT: The front-panel door does not close when you are using certain PC Cards or IEEE 1394, USB, or headphone connectors. 9 1 8 2 7 3 4 5 6 1 breakaway hinges (2) To prevent damage to your computer, the front door is designed to "break away" if it is opened too far. To reattach the front door, see page 79.
5 USB 2.0 connectors (2) For quick connections, Dell recommends using the front USB connectors for USB devices such as digital cameras, gaming controllers, and scanners. Use the back-panel USB connectors for USB devices that are seldom disconnected, such as USB mouse and keyboard devices. NOTICE: This computer supports the use of a USB hub. However, do not connect two or more USB hubs to a USB connector. Doing so may cause the computer to unexpectedly restart.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Back View HINT: The front-panel door is removable; if you remove it or accidentally knock it off its hinges, it snaps back in place. For instructions on how to reattach the door, see page 79. 1 2 16 15 14 13 12 11 3 4 5 6 10 9 8 7 1 parallel connector Connect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel connector. If you have a USB printer, plug it into a USB connector.
7 voltage selection switch (may not be available on all computers) Your computer is equipped with either an auto-sensing voltage selector or a manual voltage selection switch. See "Safety Instructions" on page 9 for more information. 8 IEEE 1394 connector Use the IEEE 1394 connector (available on computers with an IEEE 1394 option) for high-speed data transfer between your computer and a peripheral device such as a digital camera.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m 5 Press inward on the front door until it clips to both hinge arms. hinge arms (2) in closed position front-door clips (2) front door Opening the Computer Cover CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. 1 Shut down the computer (see page 34).
3 Disconnect the computer power cable from the wall outlet, and then press the power button to ground the system board. 4 Disconnect all cables from the computer, and then remove the computer stand (see page 21). NOTICE: Ensure that there is sufficient space to support the open cover—at least 30 cm (1 ft) of desk top space. 5 Press the two release buttons until the cover is free to swing up. NOTICE: Open the cover slowly to ensure that you do not damage any cables.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Looking Inside Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. NOTICE: Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not inadvertently disconnect cables from the system board.
System Board CD drive connector (IDE2) drive connector (DSKT) battery socket (BATTERY) page 103 front panel switch connector (FRONTPANEL) hard drive connector (IDE1) configuration jumper (PSWD) page 102 standby power light (AUX_PWR) main power connector (POWER) memory module connectors (DIMM A, DIMM B) page 90 microprocessor fan connector (FAN) video card connector (AGP) PCI2 card connector (PCI2) page 86 microprocessor connector (CPU) PCI1 card connector (PCI2) page 86 microprocessor power connec
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Adding PC Cards (Optional) You can add PC Cards to computers with integrated PC Card connectors. PC Card Types HINT: "Type" of card refers to its thickness, not its functionality. HINT: Your computer is designed for either 5-V or 3.3-V 16-bit PCMCIA cards. Some cards are keyed for 3.3 V only but will not fit into the PC slot. Cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion into the slot.
3 If you encounter too much resistance when you insert the card, do not force the card. Check the card's orientation, and try again. 4 Your computer recognizes most PC Cards and automatically loads the appropriate device driver for use with the computer. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, install them with the CD that accompanied the PC Card.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Adding Other Cards CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. NOTICE: You must use low-profile cards for your computer. A full-size card can cause damage to the computer or the card.
7 If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create an empty card-slot opening. 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. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector. 8 Prepare the card for installation.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Adding or Replacing a Video Card CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. NOTICE: You must use low-profile cards for your computer. A full-size card can cause damage to the computer or the card. 1 Shut down the computer (see page 34).
notch lever tab card clip AGP connector PCI connector back of computer Installing a Video Card NOTICE: You must use low-profile cards for your computer. A full-size card can damage the computer or the card. 1 To add or replace the card, press the card lever toward the PCI connector and gently press the card into the AGP connector until it clicks into place. 2 Release the card lever, ensuring that the tab fits into the notch on the front end of the card.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Adding Memory CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board.
memory connector closest to microprocessor securing clips (2) connector 9 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector. notch memory module cutouts (2) 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. 10 Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m 11 Reinstall the video card (see page 88). 12 Close the computer cover (see page 92). 13 Attach the computer stand (see page 21). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 14 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. 15 Right-click the My Computer icon and then click Properties. 16 Click the General tab.
5 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
A d d i n g Pa r ts w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l .
5 SECTION 5 Appendix Specifications Standard Settings Clearing Forgotten Passwords Replacing the Battery Dell Technical Support Policy Contacting Dell Regulatory Information
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Memory Architecture DDR SDRAM Memory connectors two Memory capacities 128-, 256-, and 512-MB non-ECC DDR SDRAM Minimum memory 128 MB Maximum memory 1 GB Memory type 266-MHz DDR SDRAM (non-ECC) Drives Externally accessible one slimline optical bay one slimline 3.
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Environmental Temperature: Operating 10° to 35°C (50° to 95°F)* Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Relative humidity 20% to 80% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration: Operating 0.25 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1/2 octave/min Storage 0.5 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1/2 octave/min Maximum shock: Operating bottom half-sine pulse with a change in velocity of 50.8 cm/sec (20 inches/sec) Storage 23-G faired-square wave with a velocity change of 508 cm/sec (200 inches/sec) Altitude: Operating –15.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Standard Settings The system setup program contains the standard settings for your computer. NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user, don’t change the settings for this program. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly. See the following figure for an example of the main program screen.
Viewing Settings 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer. 2 When the blue DELL™ logo appears, press immediately. 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. System Setup Program Screens The system setup program screens display the current configuration information for your computer.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Clearing Forgotten Passwords CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. If you forget your user or setup password, you cannot operate your computer or change settings in the system setup program until you clear the forgotten password(s). NOTICE: This process erases both the system and setup passwords. 1 Shut down the computer (see page 34).
14 Attach the computer stand (see page 21). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 15 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. Turning on your computer with the PSWD jumper installed reenables the password feature. Replacing the Battery CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m NOTICE: To avoid damage to the system board while you pry the battery loose, be sure to insert the plastic screwdriver between the battery and the socket (not the system board). battery battery socket (BATTERY) 6 Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up and snap it into place. 7 Attach the computer stand (see page 21). 8 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Contacting Dell When you need to contact Dell, use the telephone numbers, codes, and electronic addresses provided in the following table. If you need assistance in determining which codes to use, contact a local or an international operator. HINT: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed. See the Service and Support Guide supplied with your computer for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell.
w w w. j p . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . j p . d e l l . c o m Regulatory Information Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is any signal or emission, radiated in free space or conducted along power or signal leads, that endangers the functioning of a radio navigation or other safety service or seriously degrades, obstructs, or repeatedly interrupts a licensed radio communications service.
Index A front view, 76 internal parts, 82 opening cover, 80 specifications, 96 stops responding, 44 turning off, 34 audio.
Index F help file, 17, 38 N Files and Settings Transfer Wizard, 26 Hyper-Threading, 34 network fixing problems, 49 setting up, 28 finding information, 15 finding solutions, 36 fixing problems battery, 38 Dell Diagnostics, 64 drive, 39 e-mail, 41 IEEE 1394, 47 Internet connection, 41 keyboard, 47 modem, 41 mouse, 48 network, 49 PC Cards, 50 power, 51 printer, 52 scanner, 53 sound and speakers, 54 start-up error messages, 43 video and monitor, 55 front door, 76 reattaching, 79 I Internet connecti
crashes, 44 stops responding, 44 specifications, 96 system board, 83 System Restore, 62 R system setup program, 100 RAM. See memory reinstalling drivers, 68 Windows XP, 71 ResourceCD, 15, 68-69 Dell Diagnostics, 15, 64 S safety instructions, 9 scanner fixing problems, 53 screen.
Index 110 Index