INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE
INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE Models DCME and DCMF
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 Memory Problems ���������������������������������������� 24 Before Setting Up Your Computer ���������������� 5 Lockups and Software Problems ���������������� 25 Connect the Display ��������������������������������������� 6 Using Support Tools ������������������������������������28 Connect the Keyboard and Mouse ���������������� 8 Dell Support Center �������������������������������������� 28 Connect the Network Cable (Optional) �����
Contents Online Services ���������������������������������������������� 42 Automated Order-Status Service ���������������� 43 Product Information �������������������������������������� 43 Returning Items for Repair Under Warranty or for Credit ���������������������������������� 44 Before You Call ���������������������������������������������� 45 Contacting Dell ���������������������������������������������� 46 Finding More Information and Resources ����������������������������������������������������4
INSPIRON Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop This section provides information about setting up your Inspiron 535/537/545/546 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 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 the 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. 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 NOTE: The exact location of connectors may be different than what is shown. Use the USB connectors on the back panel of the computer to connect a USB keyboard and mouse. 8 Connect the Network Cable (Optional) NOTE: The exact location of connectors may be different than what is shown.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop 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 Press the Power Button on Your Computer and Display 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.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop Connect to the Internet (Optional) NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. To connect to the Internet, you need an external modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: • DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line or cellular telephone service.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop Setting Up a Wired Internet Connection Setting Up Your Internet Connection If you are using a dial-up connection, connect the telephone line to the external USB modem (optional) and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem connection, contact your ISP or cellular telephone service for setup instructions.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Desktop NOTE: Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, the Connect to the Internet wizard can help you get one. 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2. Click Start → Control Panel. NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose or contact your ISP. 5. Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. 3.
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 • Solid amber — the computer is in sleep state. • Power light is off — the computer is either turned off or is not receiving power. 1 Optical drive panel eject button (2) — Press to open or close the optical drive. 2 3 USB 2.0 connectors (2) — Connects to USB devices such as memory keys, digital cameras, and MP3 players. Headphone connector — Connects to headphones.
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. 1 2 3 3 Power supply diagnostic light — Indicates power availability for power supply. • Green light — Power is available for the power supply. 4 5 • No light — Power is not available or the power supply is not working. 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 50. 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 Microphone connector (pink) — Connects to a microphone for voice or audio input into a sound or telephony program. 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.
Using Your Inspiron™ Desktop Entertainment and Multimedia Customizing the Desktop You can use your computer to watch videos, play games, create your own CDs, listen to music and radio stations. Your optical disc drive may support multiple disc media formats including CDs, Blu-ray Discs (if the option is selected at the time of purchase), and DVDs.
Using Your Inspiron™ Desktop Customizing Your Energy Settings Backing Up Your Data You can use the power options in your operating system to configure the power settings on your computer. Microsoft® Windows Vista® provides three default options: It is recommended that you periodically back up files and folders on your computer. To back up files: • Balanced — This power option offers full performance when you need it and saves power during periods of inactivity.
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 28 or “Contacting Dell” on page 46. 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 50. • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 32).
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 If you have other software problems — • Back up your files immediately. • Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive or CDs. • Save and close any open files or programs and shut down your computer through the Start menu. ––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 46).
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 No boot device available — No bootable partition on hard disk drive, the hard disk drive cable is loose, or no bootable device exists. • 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. • 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).
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 25 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 46. Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Disc 1.
Using Support Tools 3. When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW and press . 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 21 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. 2. See “Dell Diagnostics” on page 32 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics. 3. Fill out the “Diagnostic Checklist” on page 45. 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 45 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 46.
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 46. 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 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 535 Externally accessible Inspiron 537 Inspiron 545 Inspiron 546 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. 50 two 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 52 300 W 1,023 BTU/hr NOTE: Heat dissipation is calculated by using the power supply wattage rating.
Specifications By model 545 546 Intel Celeron AMD™ Sempron™ Intel Pentium® Dual-Core Intel Pentium Dual-Core AMD Athlon™ Intel Core 2 Duo Intel Core2 Duo AMD Athlon X2 Intel Core2 Quad (537 only) Intel 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 DDR2 DIMM; non-ECC memory on
Specifications By model 535/537 545 546 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 19 backups your energy settings 20 creating 20 D C calling Dell 45 data, backing up 20 CDs, playing and creating 19 DellConnect 41 computer capabilities 18 Dell Diagnostics 32 connect(ing) Dell Factory Image Restore 35 displays 6 Dell Support Center 28 optional network cable 8 Dell support website 48 to the Internet 10 Dell Technology Guide using dial-up 11 for futher information 48 conserving energy 20 Diagnostic Checklist 45 Contacting Del
Index E headphone front connector 15 email addresses for technical support 42 help getting assistance and support 40 energy conserving 20 F I Internet connection 11 finding more information 48 ISP Internet Service Provider 11 front-side connectors 14 FTP login, anonymous 42 M H memory problems solving 24 hard drive type 50 hardware problems diagnosing 32 Hardware Troubleshooter 32 HDMI display 6 N network connection fixing 22 network connector location 17 57
Index network speed testing 21 S shipping products for return or repair 44 O order status 43 software features 18 P solving problems 21 power button and light 15 power problems, solving 23 problems, solving 21 products information and purchasing 43 R software problems 25 specifications 50 support email addresses 42 support sites worldwide 41 System Messages 30 system reinstall options 35 reinstalling Windows 35 System Restore 35 resources, finding more 48 T restoring factory image 37 technica
Index U USB 2.
Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.
