INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE
INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE Regulatory model: 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. __________________ Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2010 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Contents Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop ����������������5 Software Features ���������������������������������������� 24 Before Setting Up Your Computer ���������������� 5 Dell Dock �������������������������������������������������������� 25 Extend the Rear Stabilizing Feet �������������������� 6 Dell DataSafe Online Backup ���������������������� 26 Connect the Keyboard and Mouse ���������������� 7 Solving Problems ����������������������������������������27 Connect the Display ��������������
Contents Restoring Your Operating System ��������������42 System Restore ���������������������������������������������� 43 Finding More Information and Resources ����������������������������������������������������56 Dell DataSafe Local Backup ������������������������ 44 Basic Specifications ����������������������������������58 System Recovery Media ������������������������������ 46 Appendix ������������������������������������������������������62 Dell Factory Image Restore ��������������������
INSPIRON Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop This section provides information about setting up your Inspiron™ desktop. WARNING: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, 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.
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 Keyboard and Mouse Connect the USB keyboard and mouse to the USB connectors on the back panel of your computer.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Connect the Display Your computer has integrated VGA and HDMI video connectors. NOTE: A DVI connector may be available if you purchased a discrete graphics card. You can purchase the HDMI-to-DVI adapter and additional HDMI or DVI cables at www.dell.com. Use the appropriate cable based on the connectors available on your computer and display. Refer to the following table to identify the connectors on your computer and display.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Connection Type Computer Cable Display VGA-to-VGA (VGA cable) DVI-to-DVI (DVI cable) HDMI-to-HDMI (HDMI cable) HDMI-to-DVI (HDMI-to-DVI adapter + DVI cable) 9
Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Connect the Network Cable (Optional) 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 broadband device or Ethernet jack), you can connect it now. NOTE: Use only an Ethernet cable to connect to the network connector (RJ45 connector). Connect the telephone cable only to the modem connector (RJ11 connector) and not to the network connector (RJ45 connector).
Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Connect the Power Cable CAUTION: To help avoid damaging your computer, ensure that the voltage selector switch is set for the voltage that most closely matches the AC power available in your location. To locate the voltage selector switch, see “Back View Features” on page 20.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Press the Power Button 12
Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Set Up Microsoft Windows Your Dell computer is preconfigured with Microsoft® Windows® operating system. To set up Windows for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete. The Windows setup 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 Create System Recovery Media (Recommended) NOTE: It is recommended that you create a system recovery media as soon as you set up Microsoft Windows. The system recovery media can be used to restore your computer to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer, while preserving data files (without the need of the Operating System disc).
Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Connect to the Internet (Optional) To connect to the Internet, you need an external modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). If an external USB modem or WLAN adapter is not part of your original order, you can purchase one at www.dell.com. Setting Up a Wired Connection • If you are using a dial-up connection, connect the telephone cable to the optional modem and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Setting Up a Wireless Connection NOTE: To set up your wireless router, see the documentation that shipped with your router. Before you can use your wireless Internet connection, you need to connect to your wireless router. To set up your connection to a wireless router: Windows Vista® 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2. Click Start → Connect To. 3. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. Windows® 7 1.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop To set up your Internet connection: Windows Vista NOTE: The following instructions are applicable for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows classic view. 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2. Click Start → Control Panel. 3. In the search box, type network, and then click Network and Sharing Center→ Set up a connection or network→ Connect to the Internet.
INSPIRON Using Your Inspiron Desktop This section provides information about the features available on your Inspiron™ desktop. Front View Features 10 9 8 1 2 1 FlexBay drive eject button — Opens the Flexbay cover when pressed. 2 FlexBay slot — Can support an optional Media Card Reader or an additional hard drive. 3 Power button — Turns the computer on or off when pressed. The light in the center of this button indicates the power state.
Using Your Inspiron Desktop 5 Headphone connector — Connects to headphones. NOTE: To connect to a powered speaker or sound system, use the audio connectors on the back of your computer. 6 Line-in or microphone connector — Connects to a microphone for voice or to an audio cable for audio input. 7 Hard-drive activity light — Turns on when the computer reads or writes data. A blinking white light indicates hard‑drive activity. 8 Optical drive — Plays or records CDs, DVDs, and Blu‑ray Discs (optional).
Using Your Inspiron Desktop Back View Features 1 2 7 6 5 4 20 3
Using Your Inspiron Desktop 1 Security cable slot — Attaches a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. 2 Padlock rings — Attaches to a standard padlock to prevent unauthorized access to the interior of your computer, 3 Power connector — Connects to the power cable. Appearance of this connector may vary. 4 Voltage selector switch — Allows to select the voltage rating appropriate for your region. 5 Power supply light — Indicates power availability on the power supply unit.
Using Your Inspiron Desktop Back Panel Connectors 1 2 3 4 5 11 6 10 7 9 8 22
Using Your Inspiron Desktop 1 Your computer’s model number. 2 HDMI connector — Connects to a TV for both 5.1 audio and video signals. NOTE: When used with a monitor, only the video signal will be read. 3 4 VGA connector — Connects to the display. USB 2.0 connectors (4) — Connect to USB devices, such as a mouse, printer, keyboard, external drive, or MP3 player. 5 Rear L/R surround connector — Connects to rear L/R surround speakers.
Using Your Inspiron Desktop Software Features NOTE: For more information about the features described in this section, see the Dell Technology Guide available on your hard drive or at support.dell.com/manuals. Productivity and Communication You can use your computer to create presentations, brochures, greeting cards, fliers, and spreadsheets. You can also edit and view digital photographs and images. Check your purchase order for software installed on your computer.
Using Your Inspiron Desktop Dell Dock The Dell Dock is a group of icons that provides easy access to frequently-used applications, files, and folders. You can personalize the Dock by: • Adding or removing icons • Changing the color and location of the Dock • Grouping related icons into categories Add a Category 1. Right-click the Dock, click Add→ Category. The Add/Edit Category window is displayed. • Changing the behavior of the icons Remove a Category or Icon 1.
Using Your Inspiron Desktop Dell DataSafe Online Backup NOTE: Dell DataSafe Online may not be available in all regions. NOTE: A broadband connection is recommended for fast upload or download speeds. Dell DataSafe Online is an automated backup and recovery service that helps protect your data and other important files from catastrophic incidents like theft, fire, or natural disasters. You can access the service on your computer using a password-protected account. For more information, go to delldatasafe.
INSPIRON Solving Problems This section provides troubleshooting information for your computer. If you cannot solve your problem using the following guidelines, see “Using Support Tools” on page 34 or “Contacting Dell” on page 55. Beep Code Possible Problem One Possible system board failure — BIOS ROM checksum failure Two No RAM detected Beep Codes Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if there are errors or problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies a problem.
Solving Problems Network Problems Wireless Connections If the network connection is lost — The wireless router is offline or wireless has been disabled on the computer. • Check your wireless router to ensure it is powered on and connected to your data source (cable modem or network hub). • Re-establish your connection to the wireless router (see “Setting Up a Wireless Connection” on page 16).
Solving Problems Power Problems If the power light is off — The computer is in hibernate mode, turned off, or is not receiving power. • Press the power button to resume normal operation. • 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.
Solving Problems If the power light is solid amber — • The computer is in sleep or standby state. Press a key on the keyboard, move the connected mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation. • There may be a problem with either the system board or the power supply. For assistance, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 55). If the power light is blinking amber — There may be a problem with the system board. For assistance, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 55).
Solving Problems Memory Problems If you receive an insufficient memory message — • Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem. • See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals). • Reseat the memory module(s) into the connector(s) (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals).
Solving Problems Lockups and Software Problems If the computer does not start up — Ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet. If a program stops responding — End the program: 1. Press simultaneously. 2. Click Applications. 3. Select the program that is no longer responding 4. Click End Task. If a program crashes repeatedly — Check the software documentation. If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
Solving Problems Windows Vista® 1. Click Start → Control Panel→ Programs→ Use an older program with this version of Windows. 2. In the welcome screen, click Next. 3. Follow the instructions on the screen. Windows® 7 1. Click Start → Control Panel→ Programs→ Run programs made for previous versions of Windows. 2. In the welcome screen, click Next. 3. Follow the instructions on the screen. If you have other software problems — • Back up your files immediately.
INSPIRON Using Support Tools Dell Support Center The Dell Support Center helps you find the service, support, and system-specific information you need. To launch the application, click the the taskbar. icon in The Dell Support Center home page displays your computer’s model number, service tag, express service code, and service contact information.
Using Support Tools My Dell Downloads NOTE: My Dell Downloads may not be available in all regions. Some of the software pre-installed on your new computer do not include a backup CD or DVD. This software is available at My Dell Downloads. From this website you can download available software for reinstallation or create your own backup media. To register and use My Dell Downloads: 1. Go to downloadstore.dell.com/media. 2. Follow the instructions on the screen to register and download the software.
Using Support Tools Alert! Previous attempts at booting this system have failed at checkpoint [nnnn]. For help in resolving this problem, please note this checkpoint and contact Dell Technical Support — The computer failed to complete the boot routine three consecutive times for the same error. Contact Dell for assistance (see “Contacting Dell” on page 55). CMOS checksum error — Possible system board failure or coin-cell battery low. Battery needs replacement. See the Service Manual at support.dell.
Using Support Tools No timer tick interrupt — A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning or there might be a system board failure. See the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals or contact Dell for assistance (see “Contacting Dell” on page 55). USB over current error — Disconnect the USB device. Your USB device needs more power for it to function properly. Use an external power source to connect the USB device, or if your device has two USB cables, connect both of them.
Using Support Tools Dell Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in “Lockups and Software Problems” on page 32 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance. It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin. NOTE: Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers. NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities disc may not ship with your computer.
Using Support Tools 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: If you see a message stating that no diagnostic utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities disc. If PSA is invoked: a. The PSA will start running the tests. b.
Using Support Tools NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is displayed at the top of each test screen. The Service Tag helps you identify your computer when you contact Dell. 6. When the tests complete, close the test screen to return to the Choose An Option window. 7. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, click Exit. Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Disc NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities disc may not ship with your computer. 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. 9. When the tests complete, close the test screen to return to the Choose An Option window. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, click Exit. 10.
INSPIRON Restoring Your Operating System You can restore the operating system on your computer using any of the following options: CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image Restore or the Operating System disc permanently deletes all data files on your computer. If possible, backup your data files before using these options.
Restoring Your Operating System System Restore The Microsoft® 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.
Restoring Your Operating System Dell DataSafe Local Backup CAUTION: Using Dell DataSafe Local Backup permanently removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. Prepare backup media of applications you need to install on your computer before using Dell DataSafe Local Backup. Use Dell DataSafe Local Backup only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
Restoring Your Operating System 4. When the DELL™ logo appears, press several times to access the Advanced Boot Options window. 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. 5. Select Repair Your Computer. 6. Select Dell DataSafe Restore and Emergency Backup from the System Recovery Options menu and follow the instructions on the screen.
Restoring Your Operating System System Recovery Media CAUTION: Although the system recovery media is designed to preserve the data files on your computer, it is recommended that you backup your data files before using the system recovery media. You can use the system recovery media, created using Dell DataSafe Local Backup, to return your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer while persevering the data files on your computer.
Restoring Your Operating System 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 this option. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem. NOTE: Dell Factory Image Restore may not be available in certain countries or on certain computers.
Restoring Your Operating System Performing Dell Factory Image Restore 1. Turn on the computer. 2. When the DELL logo appears, press several times to access the Advanced Boot Options Window. 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. 3. Select Repair Your Computer. The System Recovery Options window appears. 4. Select a keyboard layout and click Next. 5.
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 27 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. 2. See “Dell Diagnostics” on page 38 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics. 3. Fill out the “Diagnostic Checklist” on page 54. 4. Use Dell’s extensive suite of online services available at 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 54 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.
Getting Help Automated Order-Status Service 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 order-status 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 55. If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance.
Getting Help Returning Items for Repair Under Warranty or for Credit Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: NOTE: Before you return the product to Dell, make sure to back up any data on the hard drive and on any other storage device in the product. Remove any and all confidential, proprietary and personal information, as well as removable media, such as CDs and media cards.
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 Diagnostic 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 See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the computer’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to 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).
INSPIRON Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: reinstall your operating system “System Recovery Media” on page 46 find your system model number the back of your computer run a diagnostic program for your computer “Dell Diagnostics” on page 38 reinstall desktop system software “My Dell Downloads” on page 35 for more information about the Microsoft® Windows® operating system and features support.dell.
Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: find safety best practices information for your computer, review Warranty information, Terms and Conditions (U.S. only), Safety instructions, Regulatory information, Ergonomics information, and End User License Agreement the safety information that is shipped with your computer, before working inside your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
INSPIRON Basic Specifications This section provides information that you may need when setting up, updating drivers for, and upgrading your computer. For more detailed specifications, see the Comprehensive Specifications at support.dell.com/manuals. 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.
Basic Specifications Memory Video Connectors four internally-accessible DIMM sockets Capacities 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB Memory type DDR3 DIMM; non-ECC memory only Minimum 1 GB Maximum 8 GB NOTE: For instructions on upgrading memory, see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals. Integrated Intel GMA HD Discrete PCI Express x16 card (optional) Audio Type integrated 7.1 channel, High Definition Audio Communication Wireless (optional) PCI Express Wi-Fi card supporting 802.
Basic Specifications External Connectors Power Network adapter one RJ45 connector Wattage 250 W USB two front‑panel and four back-panel USB 2.0-compliant connectors Voltage 115/230 VAC Coin-cell battery CR2032 lithium Audio front panel — headphone and microphone connectors back panel — six connectors for 7.1 channel support Video 60 one 15-hole VGA connector and one 19-pin HDMI connector Physical Height 377.9 mm (14.88 inches) Width 106 mm (4.16 inches) Depth 431.3 mm (16.
Basic Specifications Computer Environment Computer Environment Temperature ranges: Maximum shock (for operating — measured with Dell Diagnostics running on the hard drive and a 2-ms half-sine pulse; for nonoperating — measured with hard drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms half-sine pulse): Operating 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F) Storage –40°C to 65°C (–40°F to 149°F) Relative humidity (maximum): 20% to 80% (non-condensing) Maximum vibration (using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates use
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.
Appendix Information for NOM, or Official Mexican Standard (Only for Mexico) The following information is provided in the device(s) described in this document in accordance with the requirements of the Official Mexican Standard (NOM): Importer: Dell México S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11° Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F. Regulatory Model Number Voltage Frequency Electricity Consumption DCSLF 115/230 VAC 50/60 Hz 6.0/3.
INSPIRON Index C Dell Factory Image Restore 47 calling Dell 55 CDs, playing and creating 24 chipset 58 computer capabilities 24 connect(ing) optional network cable 10 Contacting Dell online 55 Diagnostic Checklist 54 drivers and downloads 57 DVDs, playing and creating 24 E eject button 18, 19 email addresses for technical support 51 customer service 50 Express Service Code 57 D F DataSafe Local Backup 44 DellConnect 50 Dell DataSafe Online Backup 26 Dell Diagnostics 38 Dell Dock 25 64 front-view
Index H memory support 59 hard drive N type 58 hard drive activity light 19 hardware problems diagnosing 37 Hardware Troubleshooter 37 headphone front connector 19 network connection fixing 28 network connector location 23 O order status 52 P I Internet connection 15 power button 18 ISP power problems, solving 29 Internet Service Provider 15 M memory problems solving 31 problems, solving 27 processor 58 products information and purchasing 52 65
Index R T restoring factory image 47 technical support 50 S temperature Service Tag 57 shipping products for return or repair 53 operating and storage ranges 61 U USB 2.
Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.
