INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE
INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE Models DCSLE and DCSLF
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death. If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.
Contents Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop . . . . . . . 5 Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Before Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . 5 Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Extend the Rear Stabilizing Feet . . . . . . . . . . 6 Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Connect the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Memory Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contents Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Technical Support and Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 DellConnect™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Automated Order-Status Service . . . . . . . . 45 Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Returning Items for Repair Under Warranty or for Credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INSPIRON Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop This section provides information about setting up your Inspiron 535s/537s/545s/546s desktop and connecting peripherals. WARNING: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practice information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/ regulatory_compliance.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop Extend the Rear Stabilizing Feet With the computer sitting in an upright position, carefully lift the rear of the computer, and rotate the stabilizing feet outwards. The extended feet ensure maximum system stability.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop Connect the Display Your computer has an integrated VGA video connector. You can use this connector to connect to the display. NOTE: A DVI or HDMI connector may be available on your computer if you purchased an optional discrete graphics card. Refer to the following table when identifying the connectors on your display and computer to select the connection type you will use.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop Connect Using the HDMI Connector Connect Using the DVI Connector If your display has a DVI connector, use a DVI cable (with white connectors at both ends) with an HDMI-to-DVI adapter. If your display has a VGA connector, use a VGA cable (with blue connectors at both ends) with a DVI-to-VGA adapter. NOTE: You can purchase an HDMI-to-DVI adapter from the Dell website at www.dell.com. 8 NOTE: You can purchase a DVI-to-VGA adapter from the Dell website at www.dell.com.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop Connect the Keyboard and Mouse Use the USB connectors on the back panel of the computer to connect a USB keyboard and mouse. NOTE: The exact location of connectors may be different than what is shown.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop Connect the Network Cable (Optional) NOTE: The exact location of connectors may be different than what is shown. A network connection is not required to complete your computer setup, but if you have an existing network or Internet connection that uses a cable connection (such as a home cable modem or Ethernet jack), you can connect it now. Use only an Ethernet cable (RJ45 connector). Do not plug a telephone cable (RJ11 connector) into the network connector.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop Connect the Power Cables to Your Display and Computer Press the Power Button on Your Computer and Display 11
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop Windows Vista® Setup To set up Windows Vista for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take up to 15 minutes to complete. The screens will take you through several procedures including accepting license agreements, setting preferences, and setting up an Internet connection. CAUTION: Do not interrupt the operating system’s setup process. Doing so may render your computer unusable.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop • 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. Your computer does not have an integrated modem. An optional USB modem must be used for dial-up service with this computer. Setting Up a Wired Internet Connection • Wireless LAN (WLAN) connections that provide Internet access using WiFi 802.11 technology.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. Setting Up Your Internet Connection To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut: 2. Click Start 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2. Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. 3. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop 15
INSPIRON Using Your Inspiron™ Desktop Your computer has indicators and buttons that provide information and enable you to perform common tasks. The connectors on your computer provide the option of attaching additional devices.
Using Your Inspiron™ Desktop 1 FlexBay drive eject button — Press to open the FlexBay drive panel. 5 2 FlexBay drive panel — Supports a Media Card Reader or an additional hard drive. 3 4 Power button — Turns the computer on or off when pressed. The light in the center of this button indicates the power state: • Solid white — the computer is in power-on state. • Blinking amber — there may be a problem with the system board. • Solid amber — the computer is in sleep state.
Using Your Inspiron™ Desktop Back View Features 1 Power connector — For power cable connection. Appearance may vary. 2 Voltage selector switch — For selecting the voltage rating. 3 Power supply diagnostic light — Indicates power availability for power supply. 5 • Green light — Power is available for the power supply. • No light — Power is not available for the power supply or the power supply is not working. 4 3 18 1 2 NOTE: The power supply diagnostic light may not be available on some models.
Using Your Inspiron™ Desktop Back Panel Connectors NOTE: Some back panel connectors may not be available on your computer. For details, see “Specifications” on page 52. VGA video connector — Connects to the display. On computers with a video card, use the connector on the card. HDMI video connector — Connects to the display. On computers with a video card, use the connector on the card. USB 2.0 connectors (4) — Connects to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player.
Using Your Inspiron™ Desktop Line-out connector (green) — Connects to headphones and speakers with integrated amplifiers. Line-in connector (blue) — Connects to devices like cassette or CD players. Software Features NOTE: For more information about the features described in this section, see the Dell Technology Guide available on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
Using Your Inspiron™ Desktop including CDs, Blu-ray Discs (if the option is selected at the time of purchase), and DVDs. You can download or copy pictures and video files from portable devices, such as digital cameras and cell phones.
Using Your Inspiron™ Desktop Backing Up Your Data It is recommended that you periodically back up files and folders on your computer. To back up files: 1. Click Start → Control Panel→ System and Maintenance→ Welcome Center→ Transfer files and settings. 2. Click Back up files or Back up computer. 3. Click Continue on the User Account Control window and follow the instructions in the Back up Files wizard.
INSPIRON Solving Problems This section provides troubleshooting information for your computer. If you are unable to solve your problem using the following guidelines, see “Using Support Tools” on page 30 or “Contacting Dell” on page 48. WARNING: Only trained service personnel should remove the computer cover. See the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com for advanced service and troubleshooting instructions.
Solving Problems Wired Connections Network activity light If the network connection is lost — The cable is loose or damaged. • Yellow blinking light — Indicates activity on the network. • Check the cable to ensure it is plugged in and not damaged. • Off (no light) — Indicates no activity on the network.
Solving Problems Power Problems If the power light is off — The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power. • Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the computer and the electrical outlet. • If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on. Also bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on properly.
Solving Problems If you encounter interference that hinders reception on your computer — An unwanted signal is creating interference by interrupting or blocking other signals. Some possible causes of interference are: • Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables. • Too many devices connected to a power strip. • Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet.
Solving Problems If you experience other memory problems — • Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com). • Check if the memory module is compatible with your computer. Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see “Specifications” on page 52. • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 34).
Solving Problems If the computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears — CAUTION: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. 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. If a program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system — Run the Program Compatibility Wizard.
Solving Problems ––Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly. ––Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program. ––If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
INSPIRON Using Support Tools Dell Support Center The Dell Support Center helps you find the service, support, and system-specific information you need. For more information about Dell Support Center and available support tools, click the Services tab at support.dell.com. Click the icon in the taskbar to run the application.
Using Support Tools Beep Codes Your computer may emit a repetitive beep code during start-up to help troubleshoot problems when error messages cannot be displayed. NOTE: To replace parts see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. Three beeps — Possible motherboard failure Contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 48).
Using Support Tools System Messages If your computer has an issue or error, it may display a System Message that will help you identify the cause and action needed to resolve the issue. NOTE: If the message you received is not listed in the following examples, see the documentation for either the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared. Alternatively you could see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.
Using Support Tools drive is installed properly and partitioned as a boot device. • Enter system setup and ensure that the boot sequence information is correct (see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com). not indicate a potential hard drive problem — S.M.A.R.T error, possible hard disk drive failure. This feature can be enabled or disabled in the BIOS setup (see “Contacting Dell” on page 48 for assistance).
Using Support Tools Hardware Troubleshooter Dell Diagnostics If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility. If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in “Lockups and Software Problems” on page 27 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
Using Support Tools Starting Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive. 4. Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive. NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, see “Contacting Dell” on page 48. Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Disc 1.
Using Support Tools 4. Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears and press . 5. Type 1 to start the CD menu and press to proceed. 6. Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer. 7. When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run.
You can restore your operating system in the following ways: • System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your operating system and preserving data files. • If you received an Operating System disc with your computer, you can use it to restore your operating system. However, using the Operating System disc also deletes all data on the hard drive.
System Recovery Options System Restore The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which allows you to restore your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. Any changes that System Restore makes to your computer are completely reversible. CAUTION: Make regular backups of your data files.
System Recovery Options Dell Factory Image Restore CAUTION: Using 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 Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem. CAUTION: Dell Factory Image Restore is not available if the hard drive is formatted or partitioned using the Operating System disc.
System Recovery Options 6. Click Dell Factory Image Restore. The Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen appears. NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select Dell Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore. 7. Click Next. The Confirm Data Deletion screen appears. CAUTION: If you do not want to proceed with Factory Image Restore, click Cancel. 8.
System Recovery Options NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities disc contains drivers that were installed during the assembly of the computer. Use the Dell Drivers and Utilities disc to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from which you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the disc, the Dell Drivers and Utilities disc and Operating System disc may not ship with your computer. Reinstalling Windows Vista ® The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete.
INSPIRON Getting Help If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem: 1. See “Solving Problems” on page 23 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. 2. See “Dell Diagnostics” on page 34 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics. 3. Fill out the “Diagnostic Checklist” on page 47. 4. Use Dell’s extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support (support.dell.
Getting Help Technical Support and Customer Service Dell’s support service is available to answer your questions about Dell hardware. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers. To contact Dell’s support service, see “Before You Call” on page 47 and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com.
Getting Help Online Services You can learn about Dell products and services on the following websites: • www.dell.com • www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) • www.dell.com/jp (Japan only) • www.euro.dell.com (Europe only) • www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries) • www.dell.ca (Canada only) You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail addresses: Dell Support websites • support.dell.com • support.jp.dell.com (Japan only) • support.euro.dell.
Getting Help Automated Order-Status Service Product Information To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell. com, or you can call the automated orderstatus service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. For the telephone number to call your region, see “Contacting Dell” on page 48.
Getting Help Returning Items for Repair Under Warranty or for 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. 2. For the telephone number to call for your region, see “Contacting Dell” on page 48. 3. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return. 4.
Getting Help Before You Call NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also be asked for your Service Tag. Remember to fill out the following Diagnostics Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer.
Getting Help a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell. • Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code: • Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed: 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.
Getting Help 3. Click Contact Us on the left side of the page. 4. Select the appropriate service or support link based on your need. 5. Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.
INSPIRON Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: reinstall your operating system. your Operating System disc. find your system model number. the back of your computer. run a diagnostic program for your computer, reinstall desktop system software, or update drivers for your computer, and readme files. the Drivers and Utilities disc. learn more about your operating system, maintaining peripherals, RAID, Internet, Bluetooth®, networking, and e-mail.
Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: find safety best practices information for your computer. Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_ compliance. review Warranty information, Terms and Conditions (U.S.
INSPIRON Specifications Computer Model Drives Inspiron 535s Externally accessible Inspiron 537s Inspiron 545s Inspiron 546s This section provides information that you may need when setting up, updating drivers for, and upgrading your computer. NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, click Start → Help and Support and select the option to view information about your computer. 52 one 5.
Specifications Front Panel Connectors Computer Environment USB two USB 2.
Specifications Computer Environment Power Storage Maximum heat dissipation 105 G +/- 5% with pulse duration of 2 msec +/- 10% (equivalent to 50 inches/ sec [127 cm/sec]) Altitude (maximum): Operating – 15.2 to 3,048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft) Storage – 15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft) G2 or lower as defined by Airborne contaminant ISA-S71.04-1985 level Power DC Power Supply Wattage 54 250 W 852.
Specifications By model 545s 546s Intel Celeron AMD™ Sempron™ Intel Pentium® Dual-Core Intel Pentium Dual Core AMD Athlon™ Intel Core 2 Duo Intel Pentium Core2 Duo AMD Athlon X2 Intel Pentium Core2 Quad (537s only) Intel Pentium Core2 Quad AMD Phenom™ Connectors two four four Minimum 1 GB (1 x 1 GB DIMM) 1 GB (1 x 1 GB DIMM) 2 GB (2 x 1 GB DIMMs) Maximum 4 GB (2 x 2 GB DIMMs) 8 GB (4 x 2 GB DIMMs) 8 GB (4 x 2 GB DIMMs) Memory type 800-MHz DDR2 DIMM; non-ECC memory only 800-MHz D
Specifications By model 535s 545s 546s Microphone connector Microphone connector Microphone connector Line-out connector Line-out connector Line-out connector Line-in connector Line-in connector Line-in connector Back Panel Connectors Audio Side L/R surround connector Rear L/R surround connector Center/subwoofer connector USB four USB 2.0-compliant connectors four USB 2.0-compliant connectors four USB 2.
INSPIRON Appendix Macrovision Product Notice This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation.
INSPIRON Index B customizing your desktop 21 backups your energy settings 21 creating 22 D C calling Dell 47 data, backing up 22 CDs, playing and creating 20 DellConnect 43 computer capabilities 20 Dell Diagnostics 34 connect(ing) Dell Factory Image Restore 37 displays 7 Dell Support Center 30 optional network cable 10 Dell support website 51 to the Internet 12 Dell Technology Guide using dial-up 13 for futher information 50 conserving energy 21 Diagnostic Checklist 47 Contacting De
Index E headphone front connector 17 email addresses for technical support 44 help getting assistance and support 42 energy conserving 21 F I Internet connection 12 finding more information 50 ISP Internet Service Provider 12 front-side connectors 16 FTP login, anonymous 44 M H memory problems solving 26 hard drive type 52 hardware problems diagnosing 34 Hardware Troubleshooter 34 HDMI display 7 N network connection fixing 24 network connector location 19 59
Index network speed testing 23 S shipping products for return or repair 46 O order status 44 software features 20 P solving problems 23 power button and light 17 power problems, solving 25 problems, solving 23 products information and purchasing 45 R reinstalling Windows 37 resources, finding more 50 restoring factory image 39 60 software problems 27 specifications 52 support email addresses 44 System Messages 32 system reinstall options 37 System Restore 37 T technical support 43 temperature ope
Index U USB 2.
Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.
