INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE
INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE Regulatory model: P09T series Regulatory type: P09T001
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 Laptop ������������������5 Touch Pad Gestures �������������������������������������� 22 Before Setting Up Your Computer ���������������� 5 Display Features �������������������������������������������� 24 Connect the AC Adapter �������������������������������� 6 Removing and Replacing the Battery ���������� 26 Connect the Network Cable (Optional) ���������� 7 Software Features ���������������������������������������� 28 Press the Power Button ������������������
Contents System Messages ������������������������������������������ 38 Contacting Dell ���������������������������������������������� 61 Hardware Troubleshooter ���������������������������� 40 Dell Diagnostics �������������������������������������������� 40 Finding More Information and Resources ����������������������������������������������������62 Restoring Your Operating System ��������������45 Specifications ����������������������������������������������64 System Restore ���������������������
This section provides information about setting up your Dell™ Inspiron™ laptop. Before Setting Up Your Computer When positioning your computer, ensure that you allow easy access to a power source, adequate ventilation, and a level surface to place your computer. Restricting airflow around your Inspiron laptop may cause it to overheat. To prevent overheating ensure that you leave at least 10.2 cm (4 inches) at the back of the computer and a minimum of 5.1 cm (2 inches) on all other sides.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Connect the AC Adapter Connect the AC adapter to the computer and then plug it into an electrical outlet or surge protector. WARNING: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to a power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or permanent damage to your computer.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Connect the Network Cable (Optional) To use a wired network connection, connect the network cable.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Press the Power Button 8
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Set Up the Operating System Your Dell computer is preconfigured with the operating system you selected at the time of purchase. Set Up Microsoft Windows To set up Microsoft® 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.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Create System Recovery Media (Recommended) NOTE: It is recommended that you create a system recovery media as soon as you set up Microsoft Windows. NOTE: Your computer does not have an internal optical drive. Use an external optical drive or any external storage device for the procedures that involve discs.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop To create a system recovery media: 1. Ensure that the AC adapter is connected (see “Connect the AC Adapter” on page 6). 2. Insert the disc or USB key in the computer. 3. Click Start → All Programs→ Dell DataSafe Local Backup. 4. Click Create Recovery Media. 5. Follow the instructions on the screen. NOTE: For information on using the system recovery media, see “System Recovery Media” on page 50.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional) 12
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop To enable wireless: To disable wireless: 1. Turn on your computer. 2. Double-click the or press . icon on the system tray The Wireless Enable/Disable dialog box appears. 3. Select the option(s) you want to enable: ––Enable Bluetooth ––Enable Wireless LAN 1. Double-click the or press . icon on the system tray The Wireless Enable/Disable dialog box appears. 2. Clear the option(s) you want to disable: ––Enable Bluetooth ––Enable Wireless LAN 3. Click OK. 4.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop 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 a 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 line to the external USB modem (optional) and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Setting Up Your Internet Connection To set up your Internet connection: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. Contact your ISP for offerings available in your country. 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later. 2.
INSPIRON Using Your Inspiron Laptop This section provides information about the features available on your Inspiron™ laptop. Right View Features 1 2 3 1 Audio out/Headphone connector — Connects to a pair of headphones or to a powered speaker or sound system. 2 USB 2.0 connector — Connects to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player. 3 Network connector — Connects your computer to a network or a broadband device if you are using a wired network.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Left View Features 1 1 2 3 VGA connector — Connects to a monitor or projector. 2 USB 2.0 connector — Connects to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player. 3 3-in-1 Media Card Reader — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, videos, and documents stored on memory cards.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Computer Base and Keyboard Features 1 2 3 18 4 5 6
Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 Power button — Turns the computer on or off when pressed. 2 Function key row — The wireless enable or disable key, brightness increase and decrease keys, and the volume control keys are located in this row. 3 Power/Battery status light — Indicates the different power/battery states while the computer is powered using either the AC adapter or the battery. For more information on the power/battery status light, see “Status Lights and Indicators” on page 20.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Status Lights and Indicators Power/Battery Status Light AC adapter Battery Indicator light status Computer state(s) Battery charge level solid white on off/hibernate charging < 90% breathing white standby charging off off/hibernate > 90% solid white on > 10% breathing white standby >= 10% solid amber on/standby < 10% off off/hibernate n/a NOTE: The battery is charging when the computer is powered using the AC adapter.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Back View Features 1 2 1 Security cable slot — Attaches a commercially available security cable to the computer. NOTE: Before you buy a security cable, ensure that it fits into the security cable slot on your computer. 2 AC adapter connector — Connects to an AC adapter to power the computer and charge the battery.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Touch Pad Gestures Scroll Allows you to scroll through content. The scroll feature includes: Traditional Scroll — Allows you to scroll up or down, and right or left. Circular Scroll — Allows you to scroll up or down, and right or left. To scroll up or down: Move a finger up or down in the vertical scroll zone (extreme right of the touch pad).
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Zoom Allows you to increase or decrease the magnification of the screen content. The zoom feature includes: One finger zoom — Allows you to zoom in or out. To zoom in: Move a finger up in the zoom zone (extreme left of the touch pad). To zoom out: Move a finger down in the zoom zone (extreme left of the touch pad).
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Display Features The display panel holds a camera and accompanying digital microphone.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 Microphone — Provides high quality sound for video conferencing and voice recording. 2 Camera — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. 3 Camera activity indicator — Indicates if the camera is on or off. 4 Display — Your display can vary based on selections you made when purchasing your computer. For more information about displays, see the Dell Technology Guide at support.dell.com/manuals or at Start → All Programs→ Dell Help Documentation.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Removing and Replacing the Battery WARNING: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer. WARNING: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. This computer should only use a battery purchased from Dell. Do not use batteries from other computers. WARNING: Before removing the battery, shut down the computer, and remove external cables (including the AC adapter).
Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 1 2 3 4 battery release latches (2) battery battery bay battery bay slots (3) 2 3 4 27
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Software Features NOTE: For more information about the features described in this section, see the Dell Technology Guide at support.dell.com/ manuals or at Start → All Programs→ Dell Help Documentation. 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 Laptop 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 • Changing the behavior of the icons Remove a Category or Icon 1. Right-click the Dock, click Add→ Category. The Add/Edit Category window is displayed. 1.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Dell DataSafe Online Backup NOTE: Dell DataSafe Online Backup may not be available in all regions. NOTE: A broadband connection is recommended for fast upload/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.
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 37 or “Contacting Dell” on page 61. 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.
Solving Problems Network Problems Wireless Connections If the wireless network connection is lost — The wireless router is offline or wireless has been disabled on the computer. • Ensure that wireless is enabled (see “Enable or Disable Wireless” on page 12). • 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 14).
Solving Problems Power Problems If the power light is off — The computer is either turned off, in standby state, or is not receiving power. • Press the power button. The computer resumes normal operation if it is off or in hibernate mode. • Reseat the AC adapter cable into 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 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 Lockups and Software Problems If a program crashes repeatedly — Check the software documentation. If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program. If the computer does not start up — Ensure that the AC adapter is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet. NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on the disc (CD or DVD).
Solving Problems If a program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system — • Save and close any open files or programs and shut down your computer through the Start menu. Run the Program Compatibility Wizard. The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to an earlier version of Microsoft Windows operating system environments.
INSPIRON Using Support Tools Dell Support Center The Dell Support Center is an easy-to-use application that provides information about your computer, personalized service and support resources. To launch the application, click the taskbar. icon in the 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 web site 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. 3.
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 (see “Contacting Dell” on page 61). CMOS checksum error — Possible system board failure or RTC battery low. Replace the battery (see the Service Manual at support.dell.
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 35 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance. To start the Hardware Troubleshooter: 1.
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. NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 61). 1. Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly. 2. Turn on (or restart) your computer. 3. When the DELL logo appears, press immediately.
Using Support Tools c. If you are experiencing memory issues, press , otherwise press . d. The following message is displayed “Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue.” e. Press any key to continue. The Choose An Option window appears. If PSA is not invoked: Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive and to go to the Choose An Option window. 4. Select the test you want to run. 5.
Using Support Tools Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Disc NOTE: Your computer does not have an internal optical drive. Use an external optical drive or any external storage device for the procedures that involve discs. NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities disc may not ship with your computer. 1. Insert the Drivers and Utilities disc. 2. Shut down and restart the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately.
Using Support Tools 8. If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 61). 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. 9. When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the Choose An Option window. 10.
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 to restore your operating system will permanently delete all data files on your computer. If possible, backup your data files before using these options.
Restoring Your Operating System System Restore The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which allows you to return 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 Undoing the Last System Restore NOTE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete. 1. Click Start . 2. In the search box, type System Restore and press . 3. Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
Restoring Your Operating System NOTE: If Dell DataSafe Local Backup is not available on your computer, use Dell Factory Image Restore (see “Dell Factory Image Restore” on page 51) to restore your operating system. Dell DataSafe Local Backup Basic To restore the factory image while preserving the data files: 1. Turn off your computer.
Restoring Your Operating System 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. NOTE: The restoration process might take an hour or more depending on the size of the data to be restored. NOTE: For more information, see the knowledge base article 353560 at support.dell.com.
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. NOTE: Your computer does not have an internal optical drive. Use an external optical drive or any external storage device for the procedures that involve discs.
Restoring Your Operating System Dell Factory Image Restore CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image Restore to restore your operating system will permanently delete 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.
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, restart 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.
Restoring Your Operating System 53
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 31 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. 2. See the Dell Technology Guide available on your hard drive or at support.dell.com/manuals for more troubleshooting information. 3. See “Dell Diagnostics” on page 40 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics. 4.
Getting Help Technical Support and Customer Service Dell’s support service is available to answer your questions about Dell hardware. Our support staff use computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers. To contact Dell’s support service, see “Before You Call” on page 59 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 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. Product Information If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, visit www.dell.com.
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(s) 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 media cards and CDs.
Getting Help Before You Call NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s automatedsupport telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also be asked for your Service Tag. Locating Your Service Tag The Service Tag is located on a label at the bottom of your computer.
Getting Help 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. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the computer itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is available.
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 50 run a diagnostic program for your computer “Dell Diagnostics” on page 40 reinstall system software “My Dell Downloads” on page 38 find more about the Microsoft Windows operating system and features ® ® upgrade your computer with new or additional memory, or a new hard drive reinstall or replace a worn or defective part 62 support.dell.
Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: find safety best practices information for your computer the safety and regulatory documents that shipped with your computer and also see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance review Warranty information, Terms and Conditions (U.S.
INSPIRON Specifications 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, see the About Your System section in the Dell Support Center. To launch the Dell Support Center, click the icon in the notification area of your desktop.
Specifications Connectors Media Card Reader Card supported Secure Digital (SD) memory card Audio one stereo headphone/ speaker connector Mini-Card one half-size Mini-Card slot Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Network adapter one RJ45 connector Memory Stick USB two 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors MultiMedia Card (MMC) VGA one 15-hole connector Media Card Reader one 3-in-1 slot Communications Network adapter 10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board Wireless WLAN 802.
Specifications Display Type Audio 10.1-inch WSVGA Truelife WLED Dimensions: Audio controller Realtek ALC272-VB-GR Speakers 1 x 2 watt speakers Volume controls software program menus and media controls Height 222.72 mm (8.77 inches) Width 125.28 mm (4.93 inches) Diagonal 255.52 mm (10.
Specifications Touch Pad X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) Battery 240 cpi Size: Width Height 65.0 mm to 78.0 mm (2.55 to 3.07 inches) sensor-active area 30.5 mm to 30.0 mm (1.20 to 1.18 inches) rectangle 3/6-cell “smart” lithium ion Height 22.56 mm (0.89 inches) Width 206 mm (8.11 inches) Depth 60.62 mm (2.39 inches) Weight 0.22 kg (0.48 lb) (3-cell) 0.38 kg (0.84 lb) (6-cell) Voltage 11.1 VDC Charge time (approximate) 4.
Specifications AC Adapter Physical Height 25.5 mm to 32.8 mm (1.00 inch to 1.29 inches) 50-60 Hz Width 268.0 mm (10.55 inches) Output power 30 W Depth 196.6 mm (7.74 inches) Output current 1.58 A Rated output voltage 19.0 VDC Weight (with 3-cell battery) configurable to less than 1.25 kg (2.75 lbs) Input voltage 100-240 VAC Input current 1.
Specifications Computer Environment Computer Environment Temperature range: Maximum shock (for operating — measured with Dell Diagnostics running on the hard drive and a 2-ms half-sine pulse; for non-operating — measured with the hard drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms halfsine pulse): Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Relative humidity (maximum): Operating Storage 10% to 90% (noncondensing) 5% to 95% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration (using a random vi
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 – Flat 11° Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F. Regulatory model number Voltage Frequency Electricity consumption Output voltage Output intensity P09T 100-240 VAC 50-60 Hz 1.0 A 19.0 VDC 1.
INSPIRON Index A airflow, allowing 5 B Dell Dock 29 Dell Factory Image Restore 51 Dell Support Center 37 Diagnostic Checklist 60 before you call 59 drivers and downloads 63 C E calling Dell 59 e-mail addresses computer capabilities 28 computer, setting up 5 for technical support 56 customer service 55 F D FTP login, anonymous 56 damage, avoiding 5 DataSafe Online Backup 30 DellConnect 55 Dell Diagnostics 40 72 finding more information 62 H hardware problems diagnosing 40
Index Hardware Troubleshooter 40 help getting assistance and support 54 I P power problems, solving 33 power strips, using 6 products information and purchasing 57 Internet connection 14 ISP Internet Service Provider 14 R resources, finding more 62 M restoring factory image 47, 51 memory problems S solving 34 N network connection fixing 32 setting up internet connection internet connection 15 shipping products for return or repair 58 73
Index software features 28 software problems 35 Specifications 64 support e-mail addresses 56 support sites worldwide 56 System Messages 38 V ventilation, ensuring 5 W warranty returns 58 Windows program compatibility wizard 36 wired network connection 7 wireless network connection 32 74
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