Dell™ Dimension™ 5100C front-panel door (open) optional floppy drive or media card reader* diagnostic lights front-panel door (push to open) headphone connector CD or DVD drive light microphone connector USB 2.0 connectors (2) IEEE 1394 connector power button hard-drive light voltage selection switch power connector line-out connector line-in connector microphone connector center/LFE connector surround sound connector S/PDIF-out connector integrated video connector modem connector USB 2.
Notes, Notices, and Cautions NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer. NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death. If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.
Contents Finding Information 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Setting Up and Using Your Computer Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Printer Cable . . . . . . . Connecting a USB Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Changing the Display Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Solving Problems Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Battery Problems . Drive Problems . CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Troubleshooting Tools Diagnostic Lights. Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Dell Diagnostics Main Menu . . . Drivers What Is a Driver? . . Reinstalling Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 CD/DVD Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 78 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 106 107 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contents
Finding Information NOTE: Some features may not be available for your computer or in certain countries. NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer. What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • • • • • • Dell™ Product Information Guide Warranty information Terms and Conditions (U.S.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • Service Tag and Express Service Code • Microsoft Windows License Label Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License These labels are located on your computer. • Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use support.dell.com or contact technical support. • Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting technical support.
What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • How to use Windows XP • Documentation for my computer • Documentation for devices (such as a modem) Windows Help and Support Center 1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon. 3 Click the topic that describes your problem. 4 Follow the instructions on the screen.
Finding Information www.dell.com | support.dell.
Setting Up and Using Your Computer Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer. See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to: • Obtain and install updated drivers. • Connect the printer to the computer. • Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge. • Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance. Printer Cable Your printer connects to your computer with a USB cable.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Connecting a USB Printer NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on. 1 Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so. 2 Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer. 3 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.
For information on installing a Media Card Reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on page 81. xD-Picture Card and SmartMedia (SMC) CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II) and MicroDrive Card Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro) SecureDigital Card (SD)/ MultiMediaCard (MMC) To use the media card reader: 1 Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion. 2 Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Changing the Display Settings 1 After you connect the TV, turn on the computer. The Microsoft® Windows® desktop displays on the monitor. 2 Enable clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings. • In clone mode, the monitor and TV display the same image. • In extended desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.
Network Setup Wizard The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office. 1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications, and then click Network Setup Wizard. 2 On the welcome screen, click Next. 3 Click Checklist for creating a network.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer. The New Connection Wizard appears. 3 Click Connect to the Internet.
4 Press the eject button or gently push in the tray. To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer. NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com A CD player includes the following basic buttons: Play. Move backward within the current track. Pause. Move forward within the current track. Stop. Go to the previous track. Eject. Go to the next track. A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: Stop. Play. Fast forward. Pause. Fast reverse. Go to the next title or chapter. Go to the previous title or chapter. For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or DVD player (if available).
Adjusting the Volume NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing. 1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs → Accessories→ Entertainment, and then click Volume Control. 2 In the Volume Control window, click and drag the bar in the Volume Control column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume. For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Currently, five DVD-writable disc formats are available: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM. The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to DVD+R and DVD+RW media, and can read DVD-R and DVD-RW media. However, DVD-writable drives do not write to and might not read DVD-RAM media. In addition, commercially available DVD players for home theater systems might not read all five formats.
• You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic RecordNow. • Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed. • Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a 650-MB blank CD. The optical drive needs 1 or 2 MB of the blank CD to finalize the recording. • Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Hibernate Mode Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits from hibernate mode, the desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered hibernate mode. To activate hibernate mode: 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance. 3 Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.
• Presentation — If you want your computer to run without interruption (using no power conservation). • Minimal Power Management — If you want your computer to run with minimal power conservation. • Max Battery — If your computer is a portable computer and you run your computer from batteries for extended periods of time.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com (SP1) or later operating system because Windows XP is optimized to take advantage of Hyper-Threading technology. While many programs can benefit from Hyper-Threading, some programs have not been optimized for Hyper-Threading and may require an update from the software manufacturer. Contact the software manufacturer for updates and information about using Hyper-Threading with your software.
Solving Problems Troubleshooting Tips Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer: • If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed. • If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected. • If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).
www.dell.com | support.dell.com TE S T T H E D R I V E — • Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective. • Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer. NOTE: This system supports an optional USB floppy drive. C L E A N T H E D R I V E O R D I S K — See page 105. CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See page 49. R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S — See page 46.
Hard drive problems RUN CHECK DISK — 1 Click the Start button and click My Computer. 2 Right-click Local Disk C:. 3 Click Properties. 4 Click the Tools tab. 5 Under Error-checking, click Check Now. 6 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors. 7 Click Start. E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com VE R I F Y T H A T T H E M O D E M I S C O M M U N I C A T I N G W I T H W I N D O W S — 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 3 Click Phone and Modem Options. 4 Click the Modems tab. 5 Click the COM port for your modem. 6 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
N O N - S YS T E M D I S K E R R O R — Remove the floppy disk from the drive and restart your computer. NOTE: This system supports an optional USB floppy drive. N O T E N O U G H M E M O R Y O R R E S O U R C E S . C L O S E S O M E P R O G R A M S A N D T R Y A G A I N — Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. In some cases, you might have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com E N S U R E T H A T T H E IEEE 1394 D E V I C E I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S — 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware. If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device. I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A D E L L IEEE 1394 D E V I C E — Contact Dell (see page 108).
The computer stops responding NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — 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. A program stops responding END THE PROGRAM — 1 Press simultaneously. 2 Click Applications.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Other software problems CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION — • Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer. • Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information. • Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS — • Reseat the memory modules (see page 64) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory. • Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see page 63). • Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 93. • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 46).
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Network Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K C A B L E C O N N E C T O R — Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S O F F — The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power. • Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of 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.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS — • See the printer documentation for cable connection information. • Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer (see page 13). TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E S C A N N E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y M I C R O S O F T W I N D O W S — 1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware. 2 Click Scanners and Cameras. If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner. R E I N S T A L L T H E S C A N N E R D R I V E R — See the scanner documentation for instructions.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com RUN THE SPEAKER DIAGNOSTICS — SEE YOUR SPEAKER DOCUMENTATION FOR MORE INFORMATION. R E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D D R I V E R — See page 48. R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See page 49. No sound from headphones C H E C K T H E H E A D P H O N E C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see page 57).
TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. C H E C K T H E D I A G N O S T I C L I G H T S — See page 43. If the screen is difficult to read C H E C K T H E M O N I T O R S E T T I N G S — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
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Troubleshooting Tools Diagnostic Lights CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4" on the back panel (see page 57). When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. After the computer starts, all four lights display solid green.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution A possible graphics card failure has occurred. • If the computer has a graphics card, remove the card, reinstall it (see page 66), and then restart the computer. • If the problem still exists, install a graphics card that you know works and restart the computer. • If the problem persists or the computer has integrated graphics, contact Dell (see page 108).
Light Pattern Problem Description A possible expansion card failure has occurred. Suggested Resolution 1 Determine if a conflict exists by removing a card (not a graphics card) (see page 66) and restarting the computer. 2 If the problem persists, reinstall the card that you removed, remove a different card, and then restart the computer. 3 Repeat this process for each card. If the computer starts normally, troubleshoot the last card removed from the computer for resource conflicts (see page 49).
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Dell Diagnostics CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. When to Use the Dell Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on page 27 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance. NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers. 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer.
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell, technical support will ask for your Service Tag. 3 If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab described in the following table for more information. Tab Function Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered. Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the problem description.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver. Windows XP 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance. 3 Click System. 4 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab. 5 Click Device Manager. 6 Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the device icon.
3 Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager. 4 Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver. 5 Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver. 6 Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver. 7 Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click Next. 8 Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files. 9 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them. NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not work if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view. Creating a Restore Point 1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Click System Restore. 3 Follow the instructions on the screen.
Undoing the Last System Restore NOTICE: 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 the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories→ System Tools, and then click System Restore. 2 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 4 On the next screen, click Confirm. The restore process takes approximately 6–10 minutes to complete. 5 When prompted, click Finish to reboot the computer. NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot. 6 When prompted, click Yes. The computer restarts.
Removing and Installing Parts Before You Begin This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist: • You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 53 and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 53. • You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins. NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer.
Front and Back View of the Computer Front View NOTE: The front-panel door does not close when you are using certain Flash Media or IEEE 1394, USB, or headphone connectors. NOTE: The front-panel door is removable; if you remove it or accidentally knock it off its hinges, it snaps back in place. For instructions on how to reattach the door, see page 59.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 1 CD/DVD drive eject button Press this button to eject a CD/DVD from the drive. 2 CD/DVD drive-activity light The drive activity light is on when the computer reads data from the CD or DVD drive. 3 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras (see "System Setup" on page 97 for more information on booting to a USB device).
Back View 1 2 3 4 1 voltage selection switch (may not be available on certain computers) See the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide for more information. 2 power connector Insert the power cable. 3 back panel connectors Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connector. 4 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express cards.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 1 2 3 5 4 6 7 8 13 12 11 10 9 1 link integrity light • Green — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps network and the computer. • Orange — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps network and the computer. • Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.
line-out connector 7 Use the green line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with integrated amplifiers. On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card. 8 microphone/side surround sound connector Use the pink and silver connector to attach a personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the computer or the surface on which it is resting. 5 Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up. 6 Pull back the cover latch release on the top panel. security cable slot cover release latch computer cover 7 Locate the two hinge tabs on the bottom edge of the computer.
Inside View of Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
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Memory You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. Your computer supports DDR2 memory. NOTE: Buffered memory is not supported on this computer. DDR2 Memory Overview DDR2 memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology. If the DDR2 memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com matched pair of memory modules in DIMM connectors 1 and 2 (white securing clips) matched pair of memory modules in DIMM connectors 3 and 4 (black securing clips) NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty. NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell.
memory connector closest to processor securing clips (2) connector 4 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector. notch memory module cutouts (2) crossbar NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector while you apply equal force to each end of the module. 5 Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 6 Replace the computer cover. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. 7 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. 8 Right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties. 9 Click the General tab. 10 To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.
PCI Express Cards Your computer supports one PCI Express x16 card and one PCI Express x1 card. PCI Express x16 card PCI Express x1 card PCI Express x16 card slot PCI Express x1 card slot If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing a PCI Express Card" on page 70. If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 6 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot. retention arm tab PCI Express card edge connector securing slot card connector securing tab 7 Prepare the card for installation. See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.
card not fully seated card fully seated bracket within slot bracket caught outside of slot 10 Before you close the card retention door, ensure that: • The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar. • The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 11 Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the card(s). retention arm PCI Express card edge connector card connector NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment. 12 Connect any cables that should be attached to the card. See the documentation that came with the card for information about the card’s cable connections.
4 If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening. If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see page 108). NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer. 5 Secure the card(s) in the computer. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Connecting Drive Cables When you install a drive, you connect two cables—a DC power cable and a data cable—to the back of the drive and to the system board. Drive Interface Connectors Most interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector. Serial ATA cables go to the pin-1 end of the connector.
Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables When removing an IDE drive data cable, grasp the colored pull-tab and pull until the connector detaches. When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA data cable, hold the cable by the black connector at each end. Like IDE connectors, the serial ATA interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 4 Press in on the blue tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out of the computer. tabs (2) hard drive 5 Disconnect the power and hard-drive cable from the drive.
Installing a Hard Drive 1 Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation. 2 Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer. NOTE: If your replacement hard drive does not have the plastic guide bracket attached, remove the bracket from the old drive by unsnapping it from the drive. Snap the bracket onto the new drive. tabs (2) drive drive bracket 3 Connect the power and hard-drive cables to the drive.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 5 Gently slide the drive into place until you hear a click or feel the drive securely installed. tabs (2) hard drive 6 Replace the computer cover (page 91). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 7 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
4 Pull up on the drive release latch and slide the drive towards the back of the computer. Then, lift up to remove the drive from the computer. CD/DVD drive drive release latch 5 Disconnect the power and CD/DVD drive cables from the back of the drive.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Installing a CD/DVD Drive 1 Unpack the drive and prepare it for installation. Check the documentation that accompanied the drive to verify that the drive is configured for your computer. If you are installing an IDE drive, configure the drive for the cable select setting. 2 Connect the power and CD/DVD drive cables to the drive.
3 Gently slide the drive into place until you hear a click or feel the drive securely installed. 4 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents. 5 Replace the computer cover. 6 Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on. 7 See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Removing a Media Card Reader 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53." 2 Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer. 3 Remove the computer cover (see page 59). 4 Remove the CD/DVD drive (see page 76). 5 Disconnect the data cable on the back of the media card reader from the front-panel connector on the system board.
media card reader drive release latch Installing a Media Card Reader 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53. 2 Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer. 3 Remove the computer cover (see page 59). 4 Remove the media card reader from its packaging and ensure all the screws are included.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 5 Gently slide the drive into place until you hear a click or feel the drive securely installed. 6 Reconnect the data cable on the back of the media card reader to the front-panel connector on the system board.
7 Replace the CD/DVD drive (see page 77). 8 Replace the computer cover (see page 91). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network device and then plug it in to the computer. 9 Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on. See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation. 10 Enter system setup (see page 97) and select the appropriate Drive option.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com floppy drive drive release latch 6 Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive.
Installing a Floppy Drive NOTE: In the event the replacement or new floppy drive does not have the shoulder screws, use the screws located within the drive panel insert. drive drive bracket screws (4) 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53. 2 Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer. 3 Remove the computer cover (see page 59). 4 Gently slide the drive into place until you hear a click or feel the drive securely installed.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 5 Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive. data cable edge connector cable release tab data cable 6 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents. 7 Replace the CD/DVD drive (see page 77). 8 Replace the computer cover (see page 91). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network device and then plug it in to the computer.
Modem CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: Before you remove or install the modem, make sure to disconnect all telephone and network cables from your computer. NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 3 Remove the existing modem: a Disconnect the modem cable from the modem. b Use a small Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the modem to the system board, and set the screws aside. c Pull straight up on the attached pull-tab to lift the modem out of its connector on the system board. NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors and realign the card.
screw (from the back of the computer) modem connector 5 To install a new modem cable and external modem connector: a Align the external connector with the slot on the back on the computer. b Replace the screw that secures the external modem connector in place. c Carefully route the cable wire and re-connect the modem cable to the modem. 6 Replace the computer cover (see page 91).
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Replacing the Battery NOTE: For information regarding the type of coin-cell battery, see "Power" on page 96. 1 Record all the screens in system setup (see page 97) so that you can restore the correct settings in step 9. 2 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53. 3 Remove the computer cover (see page 59). 4 Locate the battery socket (see page 62).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. 8 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. 9 Enter system setup (see page 97) and restore the settings you recorded in step 1. 10 Properly dispose of the old battery. See the Product Information Guide for battery disposal information.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com d Ensure that the cover is seated correctly before moving the computer to the upright position. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. 4 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Appendix Specifications Processor Processor types Intel® Pentium® 4 5XX processors with Hyper-Threading technology Intel Celeron® D processors Level 1 (L1) cache 16 KB Level 2 (L2) cache 1 MB for Pentium 4 processors 256 KB for Celeron processors (depending on your computer configuration) pipelined-burst, eight-way set associative, write-back SRAM Memory Type 400-MHz and 533-MHz DDR2 unbuffered SDRAM Memory connectors four Memory capacities 256-MB, 512-MB, 1-GB, or 2-GB non-ECC Minimum memory 2
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Connectors External connectors: Serial 9-pin, 16550C-compatible connector IEEE 1394 one 6-pin powered back-panel connector (not present on certain computers) one 6-pin powered front-panel connector (with optional media card reader) Video 15-hole D-SUB connector USB two front-panel and five back-panel USB 2.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Controls and Lights Power control push button Power light green light — Blinking green in sleep state; solid green for power-on state. amber light — Blinking amber indicates a problem with an installed device; solid amber indicates an internal power problem (see "Power Problems" on page 36). Hard-drive access light green Link integrity light (on integrated network adapter) green light — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps network and the computer.
Physical Height 31 cm (12.2 inches) Width 9.1 cm (3.6 inches) Depth 36.3 cm (14.3 inches) Weight 7.4 kg (16.4 lb) Environmental Temperature: Operating 10° to 35°C (50° to 95°F) NOTE: At 35°C (95°F), the maximum operating altitude is 914 m (3000 ft). Storage Relative humidity –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) 20% to 80% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration: Operating 0.25 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 0.5 octave/min Storage 0.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Before you use system setup, it is recommended that you write down the system setup screen information for future reference. NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings for this program. Certain changes can make your computer work incorrectly. Entering System Setup 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer. 2 When the blue DELL™ logo appears, press immediately.
System Setup Options NOTE: Depending on your computer, BIOS version, and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not appear, or may not appear exactly as listed. System System Info Lists system information such as the computer name, the BIOS version number and date, system tags, and other system-specific information. CPU Info Identifies whether the computer’s processor supports Hyper-Threading and lists the processor bus speed, processor ID, clock speed, and L2 cache.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Video Primary Video This setting specifies which video controller is primary when two video controllers are present on the computer. Video Memory Size Use this option to select 8 MB (default) or 1 MB of system memory for an integrated video controller. Performance HyperThreading If your computer’s processor supports Hyper-Threading, this option appears in the Options List.
System Password Displays the current status of the system's password security feature and allows a new system password to be assigned and verified. Password Status This option locks the system password field with the setup password. When the field is locked, you can no longer disable password security by pressing when the computer starts. Power Management AC Recovery Determines what happens when AC power is restored to the computer.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Boot Sequence This feature allows you to change the boot sequence for devices. NOTICE: If you modify any boot sequence settings, save the new settings to avoid losing the changes. Option Settings • Diskette Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the floppy drive. If the floppy disk in the drive is not bootable, if no floppy disk is in the drive, or if there is no floppy drive installed in the computer, the computer generates an error message.
Changing Boot Sequence for Future Boots 1 Enter system setup (see page 98). 2 Press the arrow keys to highlight the Boot Sequence menu option and press to access the menu. NOTE: Write down your current boot sequence in case you want to restore it. 3 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to move through the list of devices. 4 Press the spacebar to enable or disable a device (enabled devices have a checkmark). 5 Press the key or the key to move a selected device up or down the list.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com 3 Replace the computer cover (see page 91). 4 Connect your computer and monitor to electrical outlets, and turn them on. 5 After the Microsoft® Windows® desktop appears on your computer, shut down the computer (see page 53). 6 Turn off the monitor and disconnect it from the electrical outlet. 7 Disconnect the computer power cable from the electrical outlet, and press the power button to ground the system board. 8 Remove the computer cover (see page 59).
Cleaning Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com CDs and DVDs NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions that come with the compressed air. Never touch the lens in the drive. If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try cleaning the discs. 1 Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole. NOTICE: To prevent damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.
Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals Third-party software and peripherals include any peripheral, accessory, or software program sold by Dell not under the Dell brand (printers, scanners, cameras, games, and so on). Support for all thirdparty software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer of the product. FCC Notices (U.S. Only) Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as Class B digital devices.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. • Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver. • Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers Anguilla General Support toll-free: 800-335-0031 Antigua and Barbuda General Support 1-800-805-5924 Argentina (Buenos Aires) Website: www.dell.com.ar International Access Code: 00 E-mail: us_latin_services@dell.com Country Code: 54 E-mail for desktop and portable computers: la-techsupport@dell.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers Austria (Vienna) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 900 E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.
Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers Canada (North York, Ontario) Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus International Access Code: 011 AutoTech (automated technical support) toll-free: 1-800-247-9362 Customer Care (Home Sales/Small Business) toll-free: 1-800-847-4096 Customer Care (med.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address China (Xiamen) Technical Support website: support.dell.com.cn Country Code: 86 Technical Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.
Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers Czech Republic (Prague) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: czech_dell@dell.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Finland (Helsinki) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 990 E-mail: fin_support@dell.com Country Code: 358 E-mail Support (servers): Nordic_support@dell.
Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Germany (Langen) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Home and Small Business Division India Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers 2969 3155 Technical Support 1600 33 8045 Sales 1600 33 8044 Ireland (Cherrywood) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 16 E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com Country Code: 353 Technical Support City Code: 1 U.K.
Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Japan (Kawasaki) Website: support.jp.dell.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Latin America Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4093 Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-3619 Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service) (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-3883 Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4397 SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.
Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Mexico Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Customer Technical Support 001-877-384-8979 or 001-877-269-3383 International Access Code: 00 Country Code: 52 Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers 50-81-8800 Sales or 01-800-888-3355 Customer Service 001-877-384-8979 or 001-877-269-3383 50-81-8800 Main or 01-800-888-3355 General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6822 Netherlands Antilles General Support 00
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Norway (Lysaker) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail Support (portable computers): Country Code: 47 nor_nbk_support@dell.com Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers E-mail Support (desktop computers): nor_support@dell.com E-mail Support (servers): nordic_server_support@dell.
Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers General Support 1-800-882-1521 St. Vincent and the Grenadines General Support toll-free: 1-877-270-4609 St.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Sweden (Upplands Vasby) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: swe_support@dell.com Country Code: 46 E-mail Support for Latitude and Inspiron: Swe-nbk_kats@dell.com City Code: 8 Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers E-mail Support for OptiPlex: Swe_kats@dell.
Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers General Support 1-800-805-8035 Turks and Caicos Islands General Support toll-free: 1-866-540-3355 U.K. (Bracknell) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Customer Care website: support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/Form/Home.
www.dell.com | support.dell.com Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Area Codes, Local Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers U.S.A.
Index A Check Disk, 29 audio.
Index End User License Agreement, 9 ergonomics information, 9 error messages diagnostic lights, 43 F floppy drive installing, 85 removing, 83 Internet connection, about, 17 connection, options, 17 connection, setting up, 17 problems, 29 messages error, 30 K monitor blank, 40 clone mode, 16 connect TV, 15 display settings, 16 extended desktop mode, 16 hard to read, 41 problems, 40 keyboard problems, 32 L H hard drive installing, 75 problems, 29 removing, 73 hardware Dell Diagnostics, 46 Hardware
P password clearing, 103 jumper, 103 PC Restore, 49-50 PCI Express cards installing, 67 removing, 70 playing CDs, 18 DVDs, 18 power conserving, 23 hibernate mode, 24-25 managing, 23 options, 24 options, advanced, 25 options, hibernate, 25 options, schemes, 24 problems, 36 standby mode, 23 power light conditions, 36 printer cable, 13 connecting, 13 problems, 37 setting up, 13 USB, 14 problems battery, 27 blue screen, 33 CD drive, 28 CD/DVD-RW drive, 28 computer crashes, 32-33 problems (continued) computer s
Index specifications (continued) connectors, 95 controls and lights, 96 drives, 94 environmental, 97 expansion bus, 94 memory, 93 physical, 97 power, 96 processor, 93 technical, 93 video, 94 standby mode, 23 TV connect to computer, 15 U USB booting to devices, 102 V video problems, 40 support contacting Dell, 107-108 policy, 106 volume adjusting, 39 system board, 62 W System Restore, 49-50 system setup entering, 98 options, 99 screens, 98 T technical support policy, 106 troubleshooting Dell D