Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Documentation for Your Computer Advanced Features Finding Information for Your Computer Technical Specifications Cleaning Your Computer LegacySelect Technology Control Manageability Security Password Protection System Setup Booting to a USB Device Jumper Settings Power Button Hyper-Threading Power Management Small Form-Factor Computer About Your Computer l l l l l Front View Back View Inside Your Computer System Board Components Attaching and Removin
CAUTION: Safety Instructions Ergonomic Computing Habits Regulatory Notices Warranty and Return Policy Getting Help 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.
Back to Contents Page Advanced Troubleshooting Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Dell Diagnostics Reinstalling Drivers Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP Reinstalling Microsoft Windows 2000 Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Dell Diagnostics When to Use the Dell Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assis
3. When the boot device list appears, highlight IDE CD-ROM Device and press . 4. Select the IDE CD-ROM Device option from the CD boot menu. 5. Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears. 6. Type 1 to start the ResourceCD menu. 7. Type 2 to start the Dell Diagnostics. 8. Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer. 9.
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. If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver. Windows 2000 1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2.
System Restore returns 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. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore. NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them. Creating a Restore Point 1. Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2.
NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer. To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items: l Dell Operating System CD l Dell ResourceCD NOTE: The Dell ResourceCD contains drivers that were factory-installed during assembly of the computer.
12. If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional and you are prompted to provide further information regarding your network configuration, enter your selections. If you are unsure of your settings, accept the default selections. Windows XP installs the operating system components and configures the computer. The computer automatically restarts. NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot from the CD. 13.
1. Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2. Click Performance and Maintenance and click System. 3. Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager. 4. In the Device Manager list, check for conflicts with the other devices. Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (!) beside the conflicting device or a red X if the device has been disabled. 5. Double-click any conflict to display the Properties window.
Back to Contents Page Advanced Features Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide LegacySelect Technology Control Booting to a USB Device Manageability Jumper Settings Security Power Button Password Protection Hyper-Threading System Setup Power Management LegacySelect Technology Control LegacySelect technology control offers legacy-full, legacy-reduced, or legacy-free solutions based on common platforms, hard-drive images, and help desk procedures.
Security Chassis Intrusion Detection NOTE: When the setup password is enabled, you must know the setup password before you can reset the Chassis Intrusion setting. This feature detects that the chassis was opened and alerts the user. To change the Chassis Intrusion setting: 1. Enter system setup. 2. Press the down-arrow keys to move to the System Security option. 3. Press to access the System Security option's pop-up menu. 4.
You can only assign a system password when the following option is displayed: l Not Enabled — No system password is assigned and the password jumper on the system board is in the enabled position (the default). Assigning a System Password To escape from the field without assigning a system password, press or the key combination to move to another field, or press at any time before you complete step 5. 1. Enter system setup and verify that Password Status is set to Unlocked.
4. Press to disable the existing system password. 5. Confirm that Not Enabled is displayed for the System Password option. If Not Enabled is displayed, the system password is deleted. If Not Enabled is not displayed, press to restart the computer, and then repeat step 3 through step 5. To assign a new password, follow the procedure in "Assigning a System Password." 6. Exit system setup.
See "Jumper Settings" to locate the password jumper. 3. Close the computer cover. 4. Reconnect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and turn them on. This disables the existing password(s). 5. Enter system setup and verify that Setup Password is set to Disabled. 6. Exit system setup. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." 7. Open the computer cover.
Moves to the previous field. Cycles through the options in a field. In many fields, you can also type the appropriate value. Scrolls through help information. Enters the selected field's pop up options menu. spacebar or In the selected field's pop up options menu, cycles through the options in a field. Exits system setup without restarting the computer and returns the computer to the boot routine.
You can use this feature, for example, to tell the computer to boot from the CD drive so you can run the Dell Diagnostics, but specify that the computer boots from the hard drive when the diagnostic tests are complete. If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the Start menu and try again. 1. Turn on or restart your computer. 2.
l Hyper-Threading — Enables or disables Hyper-Threading technology for operating systems that support Hyper-Threading. The default setting is Disabled. NOTE: If your computer has a processor capable of supporting hyper-threading, the Hyper-Threading option will be the first selection in the list. Integrated Devices (Legacy Select Options) — Configures the following devices integrated with the system board: l l l l l l l Sound — The settings are On (default) or Off.
l l Quiet (default) — The hard drive operates in its quietest setting. Performance — The hard drive operates at its maximum speed. NOTE: Switching to Performance mode may cause the drive to be noisier, but its performance is not affected. l l Bypass — Your computer will not test or change the current acoustics mode setting. Suggested — The hard drive will operate at the level suggested by the hard-drive manufacturer. NOTE: Changing the acoustics setting does not alter your hard-drive image.
jumpered unjumpered Power Button NOTICE: To turn off your computer, perform an orderly computer shutdown when possible. You can use the ACPI feature to configure the function of the Microsoft Windows 2000 and Windows XP operating systems.
3. In the Device Manager window, click the plus (+) sign next to the processor type. If Hyper-Threading is enabled, the processor is listed twice. You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. Power Management Your computer can be set to use less power when you are not working. You control the power usage through the operating system installed on your computer and certain option settings in system setup. These periods of reduced power are called "sleep states": l Standby.
Back to Contents Page Battery Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Replacing the Battery CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
11. Close the computer cover. 12. Attach the computer stand, if it is used. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 13. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next computer start-up: ALERT! Cover was previously removed. 14.
Back to Contents Page Cleaning Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor Mouse Floppy Drive CDs and DVDs Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor l Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust from the slots and holes on your computer and from between the keys on the keyboard. NOTICE: Do not wipe the monitor screen with any soap or alcohol solution. Doing so may damage the antiglare coating.
Back to Contents Page Closing the Computer Cover Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." 1. Ensure that all cables are connected, and fold cables out of the way. Gently pull the power cables toward you so that they do not get caught underneath the drives. 2. Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer. 3. Close the cover: a. Pivot the cover down. b.
Back to Contents Page Ergonomic Computing Habits Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury. CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain. For comfort and efficiency, observe the following ergonomic guidelines when setting up and using your computer workstation: l Position your computer so that the monitor and keyboard are directly in front of you as you work.
3. International Organization for Standardization (ISO). ISO 9241 Ergonomics requirements for office work with visual display terminals (VDTs). Geneva, Switzerland: International Organization for Standardization, 1992.
Back to Contents Page Finding Information for Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide What are you looking for? l l l l A diagnostic program for my computer Drivers for my computer My computer documentation My device documentation Find It Here Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD) Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer when shipped from Dell.
3. 4. l How to reinstall my operating system Click the topic that describes your problem. Follow the instructions on the screen. Operating System CD You can use the Operating System CD to reinstall your operating system. Then, use the Drivers and Utilities CD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer. The product key for your operating system is located on your computer.
Back to Contents Page Getting Help Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Technical Assistance Problems With Your Order Product Information Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Before You Call Contacting Dell Technical Assistance If you need help with a technical problem, Dell is ready to assist you. CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer covers, first disconnect the computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets. 1.
www.euro.dell.com (Europe only) www.dell.com/la/ (Latin American countries) www.dell.ca (Canada only) l Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP) ftp.dell.com/ Log in as user: anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password. l Electronic Support Service mobile_support@us.dell.com support@us.dell.com apsupport@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only) support.jp.dell.com (Japan only) support.euro.dell.com (Europe only) l Electronic Quote Service sales@dell.
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, see the contact numbers for your region. Technical Support Service Dell's technical support service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to answer your questions about Dell hardware.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the "Safety Instructions.
Austria (Vienna) International Access Code: 900 Country Code: 43 City Code: 1 Corporate Sales toll-free: 1-800-808-385 Transaction Sales toll-free: 1-800-808-312 Fax toll-free: 1-800-818-341 Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.
Large Corporate Accounts North Government and Education toll-free: 800 858 2955 Large Corporate Accounts East toll-free: 800 858 2020 Large Corporate Accounts East Government and Education toll-free: 800 858 2669 Large Corporate Accounts Queue Team toll-free: 800 858 2222 Large Corporate Accounts South toll-free: 800 858 2355 Large Corporate Accounts West toll-free: 800 858 2811 Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts toll-free: 800 858 2621 Colombia General Support 980-9-15-3
Country Code: 49 Home/Small Business Customer Care City Code: 6103 Global Segment Customer Care 06103 766-9570 Preferred Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9420 Large Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9560 Public Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9555 Switchboard 06103 766-7000 Greece International Access Code: 00 Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: support.euro.dell.
Country Code: 81 Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™) Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and Inspiron) City Code: 44 Technical Support (Dell Precision™, OptiPlex™, and Latitude™) Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) Technical Support (Axim™) Technical Support outside of Japan (Axim) International Access Code: 001 Country Code: 82 Latin America 81-44-556-3894 toll-free: 0120-981-690 81-44-556-3468 044-556-3490 24-Hour Automated
Country Code: 31 (Enterprise): nl_server_support@dell.com City Code: 20 (Latitude): nl_latitude_support@dell.com (Inspiron): nl_inspiron_support@dell.com (Dimension): nl_dimension_support@dell.com (OptiPlex): nl_optiplex_support@dell.com (Dell Precision): nl_workstation_support@dell.
Singapore (Singapore) International Access Code: 005 Technical Support Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) toll-free: 800 6011 051 604 633 4949 Transaction Sales toll-free: 800 6011 054 Country Code: 65 Corporate Sales toll-free: 800 6011 053 South Africa (Johannesburg) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.
International Access Code: 00 Customer Care website: support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/Form/Home.asp Country Code: 44 E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.
Back to Contents Page Glossary Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W X Z Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer. A AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable into an electrical outlet.
CD player — The software used to play music CDs. The CD player displays a window with buttons that you use to play a CD. CD-R — CD recordable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be recorded only once onto a CD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over. CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten).
EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical interference caused by electromagnetic radiation. ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency requirements that decrease the overall consumption of electricity. EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector design that provides bidirectional data transmission. ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of static electricity. ESD can damage integrated circuits found in computer and communications equipment.
audio, and video equipment. IDE — integrated device electronics — An interface for mass storage devices in which the controller is integrated into the hard drive or CD drive. IEEE 1394 — Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. — A high-performance serial bus used to connect IEEE 1394-compatible devices, such as digital cameras and DVD players, to the computer.
or cursor on your screen. ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second. Access times of storage devices are often measured in ms. N network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interface controller). NIC — See network adapter.
l It is located on a network in a directory and the system administrator has assigned rights only to specific individuals. refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines are recharged (sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency). The higher the refresh rate, the less video flicker can be seen by the human eye. resolution — The sharpness and clarity of an image produced by a printer or displayed on a monitor.
U UPS — uninterruptible power supply — A backup power source used when the electrical power fails or drops to an unacceptable voltage level. A UPS keeps a computer running for a limited amount of time when there is no electrical power. UPS systems typically provide surge suppression and may also provide voltage regulation. Small UPS systems provide battery power for a few minutes to enable you to shut down your computer.
Back to Contents Page Memory Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Memory Installation Guidelines For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, look under "Memory" in the Technical Specifications section. NOTICE: Before you install new memory modules, download the most recent BIOS for your computer from the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. DDR Memory Overview DDR memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology.
Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations Your computer supports a maximum of 4 GB of memory when you use four 1-GB DIMMs. Current operating systems, such as Microsoft® Windows® 2000 and Windows XP, can only use a maximum of 4 GB of address space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is slightly less than 4 GB. Certain components within the computer require address space in the 4-GB range.
2 securing clips (2) 3 connector 8. Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector. 1 cutouts (2) 2 memory module 3 notch 4 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. 9. Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
The computer should have changed the value of System Memory to reflect the newly installed memory capacity, speed, and mode (single or dual). Verify that the information is correct. If it is correct, skip to step 17. 16. If the memory total is incorrect, turn off and disconnect your computer and devices from their electrical outlets. Open the computer cover and check the installed memory modules to ensure that they are seated properly in their sockets. Then repeat steps 10, 11, and 12. 17.
Back to Contents Page Regulatory Notices Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is any signal or emission, radiated in free space or conducted along power or signal leads, that endangers the functioning of a radio navigation or other safety service or seriously degrades, obstructs, or repeatedly interrupts a licensed radio communications service.
FCC Identification Information The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in compliance with FCC regulations: l Model numbers: DHP, DHS, DHM l Company name: Dell Computer Corporation One Dell Way Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA 512-338-4400 IC Notice (Canada Only) Most Dell computer systems (and other Dell digital apparatus) are classified by the Industry Canada (IC) Interference-Causing Equipment Standard #3 (ICES003) as Class B digital devices.
Simplified Chinese Class A Warning Notice (China Only) On Class A systems, the following warning will appear near the regulatory label: Warning: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
This is a Class B product based on the standard of the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) for information technology equipment. If this equipment is used near a radio or television receiver in a domestic environment, it may cause radio interference. Install and use the equipment according to the instruction manual.
To completely switch off the equipment, the power supply cable must be removed from the power supply socket, which should be located near the equipment and easily accessible. A protection mark "B" confirms that the equipment is in compliance with the protection usage requirements of standards PN-93/T-42107 and PN-EN 55022: 1996.
NOM Information (Mexico Only) The following information is provided on the device(s) described in this document in compliance with the requirements of the official Mexican standards (NOM): Exporter: Dell Computer Corporation One Dell Way Round Rock, TX 78682 Importer: Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11° Piso Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F. Ship to: Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V. al Cuidado de Kuehne & Nagel de México S. de R.I. Avenida Soles No.
Back to Contents Page CAUTION: Safety Instructions Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage. SAFETY: General l Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instructions closely.
l Before working inside the computer, unplug the computer to help prevent electric shock or system board damage. Certain system board components continue to receive power any time the computer is connected to AC power. SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer Before you open the computer cover, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated.
For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in "Ergonomic Computing Habits" when setting up and using your computer. SAFETY: Battery Disposal Your computer uses a lithium coin-cell battery. The lithium coin-cell battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it. However, should you need to replace it, see "Replacing the Battery." Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste.
Back to Contents Page About Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Front View Back View Inside Your Computer System Board Components Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand Front View 1 front panel door Open the door to use the front panel connectors. 2 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most kinds of speakers. 3 USB 2.
pressing the power button for 6 seconds or longer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown. NOTICE: If your operating system has ACPI enabled, when you press the power button the computer will perform an operating system shutdown.
1 parallel connector Connect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel connector. If you have a USB printer, plug it into a USB connector. NOTE: The integrated parallel connector is automatically disabled if the computer detects an installed card containing a parallel connector configured to the same address. For more information, see "System Setup Options." 2 mouse connector Plug a standard mouse into the green mouse connector.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card. 7 line-out connector Use the green line-out connector (available on computers with integrated sound) to attach headphones and most speakers with integrated amplifiers. On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card. 8 microphone connector Use the pink microphone connector (available on computers with integrated sound) to attach a personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
1 hard drive 6 padlock ring 2 chassis intrusion switch 7 heat sink and blower assembly 3 internal speaker 8 system board 4 power supply 9 floppy drive 5 card cage 10 CD/DVD drive Cable Colors Device Color Hard drive Blue pull tab Floppy drive Black pull tab CD/DVD drive Orange pull tab Serial ATA drive Blue cable System Board Components
1 floppy-drive connector (DSKT) 11 CD drive audio cable connector (CD_IN) 2 CD/DVD drive connector (IDE2) 12 front-panel audio cable connector (FRONTAUDIO) 3 battery socket (BATTERY) 13 power connector (12VPOWER) 4 front-panel connector 14 serial port connector (SER2) (FRONTPANEL) for optional serial port cards 5 IDE hard-drive connector (IDE1) 15 microprocessor and heat sink connector (CPU) 6 serial ATA hard-drive connector (SATA1) 16 microprocessor fan connector (FAN) 7 in
To use the computer in a vertical position, you must attach the computer stand: 1. Place the computer on its right side so that the drive bays are at the bottom. 2. Fit the stand onto what was the left side of the computer. 3. a. Position the stand as shown in the following illustration by aligning the large round hole in the stand with the securing button on the side of the cover and aligning the captive screw in the stand with the screw hole in the cover. b.
Back to Contents Page AGP and DVI Adapter Cards Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1 notch 4 card clip 2 lever 5 AGP connector 3 tab 6 PCI connector Installing an AGP/DVI Adapter Card 1. To add or replace the card, press the card lever toward the PCI connector and gently press the card into the AGP connector until it clicks into place. 2. Release the card lever, ensuring that the tab fits into the notch on the front end of the card. 3. Secure the card by lowering the hinged lever on the back panel. 4. Close the computer cover. 5.
Back to Contents Page PCI Cards and Serial Port Adapters Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide PCI Cards Serial Port Adapters CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1 card cage 2 handle 2. If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create an empty card-slot opening. If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector. 3. Prepare the card for installation.
b. Ensure that the riser board is fully seated in the connector on the system board. 1 card cage 2 tabs (2) 3 slots (2) 7. Reconnect any cables that you removed in step 1. 8. Connect any cables that should be attached to the card. See the documentation for the card for information about the card's cable connections. 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. 9.
4. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector. 5. 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. 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. 6. Lower the retention arm and press it into place.
10. Slide the adapter card bracket down over the card slot opening, and lower the retention arm, securing the bracket. 11. Route the serial adapter cable under the card cage, and attach the cable to the connector on the system board (labeled SER2). 1 serial card system board connector (SER2) 2 serial adapter cable 3 card cage NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack, and then plug it into the computer. 12.
10. 11. Lift and remove the adapter card bracket. If you are removing the adapter permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card- slot opening. If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell. 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. 12. Lower the retention arm and press it into place.
Back to Contents Page Opening the Computer Cover Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." 1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu. 2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
Back to Contents Page Drives Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Drives Hard Drive Front-Panel Inserts Floppy Drive CD/DVD Drive Cable Routing Drives Your computer supports: l One hard drive (IDE or Serial ATA) l One floppy or optional Zip drive l One optional CD or DVD drive 1 CD/DVD drive 2 floppy drive 3 hard drive General Installation Guidelines IDE hard drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE1, and CD/DVD IDE drives should be connected
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. Some drives may also have an audio connector; one end of the audio cable will attach to the drive connector and the other will attach to the system board. Drive Interface Connectors IDE Drive Connector Serial ATA Connector NOTE: The serial ATA connector may have an attached cover or shroud. NOTE: The serial ATA Connector may be straight or angled.
IDE Drive Addressing When you connect two IDE devices to a single IDE interface cable and configure them for the cable select setting, the device attached to the last connector on the interface cable is the master or boot device (drive 0), and the device attached to the middle connector on the interface cable is the slave device (drive 1). See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information on configuring devices for the cable select setting. Your computer supports up to two IDE devices.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack. 5. Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer. 6. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board. 7. Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.
NOTICE: If you install a serial ATA hard drive, it is recommended that you have Dell-supplied data and power cables. 1. Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer. NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it. 2. Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation. 3.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation. 10. Insert a bootable floppy disk into drive A. 11. Turn on the computer. 12. Enter system setup, and update the appropriate Primary Drive option (0 or 1). 13. Exit system setup, and reboot the computer. 14. Partition and logically format your drive before you proceed to the next step. For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system. 15.
2. Press on the inserts until they pop free of the front-panel cover. Floppy Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. 1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu. 2.
1 power cable 2 floppy-drive cable 3 floppy-drive connector (DSKT) 4. Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive, slide the drive upward, and remove it from the floppy-drive bay. Installing a Floppy Drive 1. If the replacement drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive.
2. Gently slide the drive into place until the tabs securely click into position. 3. Attach the power and floppy-drive cables to the floppy drive. 4. Connect the other end of the floppy-drive cable to the connector labeled DSKT on the system board. 1 power cable 2 floppy-drive cable 3 floppy-drive connector (DSKT) 5. Reconnect the data cable to the back of the drive installed in the CD/DVD drive bay located above the floppy drive. 6.
CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. 1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu. 2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
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. If the replacement drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive.
1 power cable 2 audio cable 3 CD/DVD drive cable 4 IDE2 connector 6. If you are installing a drive that has its own controller card, install the controller card in a card slot. 7. Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents. 8. If the CD/DVD drive bay was previously empty, remove the front-panel inserts. 9. Close the computer cover. 10. Attach the computer stand (optional).
1 CD/DVD drive audio cable 6 hard drive power cable (route and secure the cable by using the tabs on the inside of the cover) 2 CD/DVD drive data cable 7 front input/output data cable 3 floppy drive data cable 8 front input/output audio cable 4 control panel cable 9 IDE drive data cable (used if an IDE hard drive is installed) 5 serial ATA drive data cable (used if a serial ATA hard drive is installed) Back to Contents Page
Back to Contents Page Microprocessor Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Removing the Microprocessor CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. 1.
NOTICE: Lay the heat sink down with the thermal material facing upward. 1 heat-sink/blower assembly 4 retention base 2 screw 5 heat sink 3 retention base tab 6 screw 10. Remove the two screws on the blower to remove it from the heat sink. NOTICE: Do not discard the blower. You will reuse it. If you are installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, discard the original heat sink.
NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you unpack the new microprocessor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the microprocessor. If any of the pins on the microprocessor appears to be bent, contact Dell for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. 1. Unpack the new microprocessor.
1 heat-sink/blower assembly 4 retention base 2 screw 5 heat sink 3 retention base tab 6 screw 1 securing clip 2 tab 3 slot 4 retention base 8. Plug the fan cable into the FAN connector on the system board. 9. Plug the power cable into the 12VPOWER connector on the system board. 10. Close the computer cover. 11. Attach the computer stand (optional). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 12.
13. Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing the Chassis Intrusion option to Enabled or Enabled-Silent. NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion detector.
Back to Contents Page About Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Front View Back View Inside Your Computer System Board Components Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand Front View 1 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices (see System Setup for more information on booting to a USB device).
1 back panel connectors Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connector. 2 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI and AGP cards. 3 voltage selection switch (may not be available on all computers) Your computer is equipped with either an auto-sensing voltage selector or a manual voltage selection switch. Computers with an auto-sensing voltage selector do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and can automatically detect the correct operating voltage.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card. 8 microphone connector Use the pink microphone connector (available on computers with integrated sound) to attach a personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program. 9 USB 2.0 connectors (6) On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card. Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards, and for bootable USB devices.
System Board Components 1 floppy-drive connector (DSKT) 11 CD drive audio cable connector (CD_IN) 2 CD/DVD drive connector (IDE2) 12 front-panel audio cable connector (FRONTAUDIO) 3 battery socket (BATTERY) 13 power connector (12VPOWER) 4 front-panel connector (FRONTPANEL) 14 serial port connector (SER2) for optional serial port cards 5 IDE hard-drive connector (IDE1) 15 microprocessor and heat sink connector (CPU) 6 serial ATA hard-drive connector (SATA1) 16 microprocessor fan connecto
b. 3. When the stand is in place, tighten the thumbscrew. Rotate the computer so that the stand is at the bottom and the drives are at the top. To remove the computer stand: 1. Turn the computer over so that the stand is at the top. 2. Loosen the thumbscrew and lift the stand away. 3. Place the computer in a horizontal position.
Back to Contents Page AGP and DVI Adapter Cards Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1 notch 4 card clip 2 lever 5 AGP connector 3 tab 6 PCI connector Installing an AGP/DVI Adapter Card 1. To add or replace the card, press the card lever toward the PCI connector and gently press the card into the AGP connector until it clicks into place. 2. Release the card lever, ensuring that the tab fits into the notch on the front end of the card. 3. Secure the card by lowering the hinged lever on the back panel. 4. Close the computer cover. 5.
Back to Contents Page PCI Cards and Serial Port Adapters Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide PCI Cards Serial Port Adapters CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1 edge connector 4 card connector 2 card 5 filler bracket 3 retention arm 2. If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a empty card-slot opening. Then continue with step 4. 3. If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector. 4. Prepare the card for installation.
2 filler bracket 3 alignment bar 4 retention arm 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. 8. Connect any cables that should be attached to the card. See the documentation for the card for information about the card's cable connections. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 9.
8. Remove card's driver from the operating system. Serial Port Adapters CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." 1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu. 2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
6. Proceed with step 6 in the next procedure. Removing a Serial Port Adapter 1. Disconnect the serial adapter cable from the connector on the system board. 2. Raise the retention arm. 3. Lift and remove the adapter card bracket. 4. If you are removing the adapter permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card- slot opening. If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell.
Back to Contents Page Opening the Computer Cover Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." 1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu. 2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
Back to Contents Page Drives Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Drives Hard Drive Front-Panel Inserts Floppy Drive CD/DVD Drive Cable Routing Drives Your computer supports: l One hard drive (IDE or Serial ATA) l One floppy or optional Zip drive l One optional CD or DVD drive 1 CD/DVD drive 2 floppy drive 3 hard drive General Installation Guidelines IDE hard drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE1, and CD/DVD IDE drives should be connected
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. Some drives may also have an audio connector; one end of the audio cable will attach to the drive connector and the other will attach to the system board. Drive Interface Connectors IDE Drive Connector Serial ATA Connector NOTE: The serial ATA connector may have an attached cover or shroud. NOTE: The serial ATA Connector may be straight or angled.
IDE Drive Addressing When you connect two IDE devices to a single IDE interface cable and configure them for the cable select setting, the device attached to the last connector on the interface cable is the master or boot device (drive 0), and the device attached to the middle connector on the interface cable is the slave device (drive 1). See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information on configuring devices for the cable select setting. Your computer supports up to two IDE devices.
NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components. Removing a Hard Drive 1. Disconnect the power cable and hard-drive cable from the drive. IDE Serial ATA 1 power cable 2 hard-drive cable 2.
1 drive 2 bracket rails (2) 3 screws (4) 3. Install the hard drive into the computer by gently sliding the drive into place until you hear it securely click. NOTICE: If you are installing an IDE hard drive, match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive (pin 1 is marked as "1"). 4. Connect the power and hard-drive cables to the drive. IDE Serial ATA 1 power cable 2 hard-drive cable 5.
14. Test the hard drive by running the "Dell Diagnostics." 15. If the drive you just installed is the primary drive, install your operating system on the hard drive. For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system. After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next computer start-up: ALERT! Cover was previously removed. 16.
6. Open the computer cover. 7. If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front- panel inserts. Removing a Floppy Drive 1. Disconnect the floppy-drive cable from the system board connector (DSKT). 2. Remove the power cable from the interposer board. 3. Remove or raise the drive by pressing the green tabs on either side of the drive and lifting the drive up. 4. Remove the floppy-drive cable from the floppy drive: a.
1 sled tab 2 sled Installing a Floppy Drive 1. Snap the replacement drive into the sled and ensure that it is secure in the sled. 2. Connect the interposer board to the floppy drive: 3. a. Slide the floppy-drive cable into the connector. b. Close the lever so that the cable is secure in the connector. c. Line up the hole on the bottom of the interposer board with the notch on the connector, and snap the interposer board onto the drive.
6. Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents. 7. Close the computer cover. 8. Attach the computer stand (optional). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 9. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
1 interposer board 3. Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive, and then slide the drive upward and remove it from the drive bay. 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.
1 interposer board 2 notch on inside of cover 3 interposer board tab If your computer came with an IDE CD drive, use the spare connector on the existing interface cable. Otherwise, use the IDE interface cable provided in the drive kit. 4. If you are installing a drive that has its own controller card, install the controller card in an expansion slot. 5. Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents. 6.
1 CD/DVD drive data cable 7 front input/output data cable 2 floppy drive data cable 8 IDE drive data cable (used if an IDE hard drive is installed) 3 control panel cable 9 front input/output audio cable 4 CD/DVD and floppy drive power cables 10 12V power cable 5 serial ATA drive data cable (used if a serial ATA hard drive is installed) 11 CD/DVD audio cable 6 IDE drive power cable Back to Contents Page
Back to Contents Page Microprocessor Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Removing the Microprocessor CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. 1.
NOTICE: Lay the heat sink down with the thermal material facing upward. 1 heat-sink/blower assembly 4 retention base 2 screw 5 heat sink 3 retention base tab 6 screw 10. Remove the two screws on the blower to remove it from the heat sink. NOTICE: Do not discard the blower. You will reuse it. If you are installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, discard the original heat sink.
1. Unpack the new microprocessor. 1 pin-1 corners of the microprocessor and socket aligned NOTICE: You must position the microprocessor correctly in the socket to avoid permanent damage to the microprocessor and the computer when you turn on the computer. 2. If the release lever on the socket is not fully extended, move it to that position. 3. Align the pin-1 corners of the microprocessor and socket.
1 heat-sink/blower assembly 4 retention base 2 screw 5 heat sink 3 retention base tab 6 screw 1 securing clip 2 tab 3 slot 4 retention base 8. Plug the fan cable into the FAN connector on the system board. 9. Plug the power cable into the 12VPOWER connector on the system board. 10. Close the computer cover. 11. Attach the computer stand (optional). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 12.
ALERT! Cover was previously removed. 13. Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing the Chassis Intrusion option to Enabled or Enabled-Silent. NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion detector.
Back to Contents Page About Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Front View Back View Inside Your Computer System Board Components Front View 1 CD-drive eject button Press to eject a CD from the CD drive. 2 hard-drive activity light The hard drive light is on when the computer reads data from or writes data to the hard drive. The light might also be on when a device such as your CD player is operating.
Back View 1 power connector Insert the power cable. 2 voltage selection switch (may not be available on all computers) Your computer is equipped with either an auto-sensing voltage selector or a manual voltage selection switch. Computers with an auto-sensing voltage selector do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and can automatically detect the correct operating voltage.
4 network adapter connector To attach your computer to a network, connect one end of a network cable to either a network jack or your network device. Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back panel of your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached. On computers with a network connector card, use the connector on the card. It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your network.
1 hard drive 6 heat sink and blower assembly 2 internal speaker 7 power supply 3 chassis intrusion switch 8 floppy drive 4 system board 9 CD/DVD drive 5 padlock ring Cable Colors Device Color Hard drive Blue pull tab Floppy drive Black pull tab CD/DVD drive Orange pull tab Serial ATA drive Blue cable System Board Components
1 floppy-drive connector (DSKT) 12 CD drive audio cable connector (CD_IN) 2 CD/DVD drive connector (IDE2) 13 front-panel audio cable connector (FRONTAUDIO) 3 battery socket (BATTERY) 14 power connector (12VPOWER) 4 front-panel connector (FRONTPANEL) 15 serial port connector (SER2) for optional serial port cards 5 IDE hard-drive connector (IDE1) 16 microprocessor and heat sink connector (CPU) 6 serial ATA hard-drive connector (SATA2) 17 microprocessor fan connector (FAN) 7 serial ATA hard
Back to Contents Page AGP and DVI Adapter Cards Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1 notch 4 card clip 2 lever 5 AGP connector 3 tab 6 PCI connector Installing an AGP/DVI Adapter Card 1. To add or replace the card, press the card lever toward the PCI connector and gently press the card into the AGP connector until it clicks into place. 2. Release the card lever, ensuring that the tab fits into the notch on the front end of the card. 3. Secure the card by lowering the hinged lever on the back panel. 4. Close the computer cover. 5.
Back to Contents Page PCI Cards and Serial Port Adapters Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide PCI Cards Serial Port Adapters CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
1 card 2 edge connector 3 card connector 4 retention arm 5 lever 6 filler bracket 2. 3. If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 4. If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector. 4. Prepare the card for installation.
l 7. The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide Press the retention arm into place, securing the card(s) in the computer. 1 filler bracket 2 alignment bar 3 alignment guide 4 retention arm 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. 8. Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
2. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. 3. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector. 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. 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.
1 serial port system board connector (SER2) 2 adapter bracket 3 serial adapter cable 4 retention arm 5. Attach the serial adapter cable to the serial port connector on the system board (labeled SER2). 6. Continue with step 6 in the next procedure. Removing a Serial Port Adapter 1. Disconnect the serial adapter cable from the connector on the system board. 2. Raise the retention arm. 3. Lift and remove the adapter bracket. 4.
Back to Contents Page Opening the Computer Cover Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." 1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu. 2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
Back to Contents Page Drives Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Drives Hard Drive Front-Panel Inserts Floppy Drive CD/DVD Drive Cable Routing Drives Your computer supports: l two hard drives (IDE or Serial ATA) l two floppy or optional Zip drives l two CD or DVD drives 1 CD/DVD drive(s) 2 floppy drive(s) 3 hard drive(s) General Installation Guidelines IDE hard drives should be connected to the connector labeled IDE1, and CD/DVD IDE drives should be connect
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. Some drives may also have an audio connector; one end of the audio cable will attach to the drive connector and the other will attach to the system board. Drive Interface Connectors IDE Drive Connector Serial ATA Connector NOTE: The serial ATA connectors may have an attached cover or shroud. NOTE: The serial ATA Connector may be straight or angled.
IDE Drive Addressing When you connect two IDE devices to a single IDE interface cable and configure them for the cable select setting, the device attached to the last connector on the interface cable is the master or boot device (drive 0), and the device attached to the middle connector on the interface cable is the slave device (drive 1). See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information on configuring devices for the cable select setting. Your computer supports up to four IDE devices.
1. Disconnect the power and hard-drive cables from the drive. IDE Serial ATA 1 hard-drive cable 2 power cable 2. Press in on the tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out. 1 tabs (2) 2 hard drive Installing a Hard Drive NOTICE: If you install a serial ATA hard drive, it is recommended that you have Dell-supplied data and power cables. 1. Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation. 2.
1 drive 2 bracket rails (2) 3 screws (4) 4. Install the hard drive into the computer by gently sliding the drive into place until you hear it securely click. NOTICE: If you are installing an IDE hard drive, match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive (pin 1 is marked as "1"). 5. Connect the power and hard-drive cables to the drive. IDE Serial ATA 1 power cable 2 hard-drive cable 6.
After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next computer start-up: ALERT! Cover was previously removed. 16. Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent. NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion detector.
1 rail tabs (2) 2 second hard drive in upper bay 3 first hard drive in lower bay 4 hard drive bay 11. Connect a power cable to the drive. NOTICE: If you are installing an IDE hard drive, match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive. 12. Connect a data cable to the drive. a. If you're installing a serial ATA drive, connect the new data cable to the back of the drive and to one of the serial ATA connectors on the system board. b.
After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next computer start-up: ALERT! Cover was previously removed. 16. Reset the chassis intrusion detector by changing Chassis Intrusion to Enabled or Enabled-Silent. NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion detector.
1 insert frame for CD/DVD drive bay 2 insert frame for floppy drive bay 6. Reattach the empty insert frame over the front of the drive bay. The insert frame fits only one way. Floppy Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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.
1 power cable 2 floppy-drive cable 3 floppy-drive connector (DSKT) 3. Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive, slide the drive upward, and remove it from the floppy-drive bay. Installing a Floppy Drive 1. If you are replacing a drive and the new drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive.
3. Attach the power and floppy-drive cables to the floppy drive. 4. Connect the other end of the floppy-drive cable to the connector labeled DSKT on the system board (see "System Board Components"). 1 power cable 2 floppy-drive cable 3 floppy-drive connector (DSKT) 5. If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front- panel inserts. 6. Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents. 7.
2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now. NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack. 3. Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer. 4.
1. If you are installing a new drive, 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 new drive to the set of rails that are attached to the inside of the cover. If a set of rails is not attached inside the cover, contact Dell. 3.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation. 11. Update your configuration information by setting the appropriate Drive option (0 or 1) under Drives: Secondary to Auto. See "Drive Configuration" for more information. After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next computer start-up: ALERT! Cover was previously removed. 12.
Back to Contents Page Microprocessor Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Removing the Microprocessor CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." CAUTION: 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. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. 1.
1 securing clip 2 tab 3 retention base 1 heat sink 2 tab 3 retention base NOTICE: If you are installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, discard the original heat sink. If you are not installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original heat sink and blower when you install your new microprocessor. 10. Pull the release lever straight up until the microprocessor is released.
1 release lever 2 microprocessor 3 socket 11. Remove the microprocessor from the socket. Leave the release lever extended in the release position so that the socket is ready for the new microprocessor. Installing the Microprocessor NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer. NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you unpack the microprocessor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the microprocessor.
NOTICE: If you are not installing a microprocessor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original heat sink assembly when you replace the microprocessor. If you installed a microprocessor replacement kit from Dell, return the original heat sink assembly and microprocessor to Dell in the same package in which your replacement kit was sent. 6. Install the heat sink: a. Place the one end of the heat sink under the tab on one side of the retention base. b.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 11. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next computer start-up: ALERT! Cover was previously removed. 12.
Back to Contents Page Solving Problems Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Diagnostic Lights Keyboard Problems Beep Codes Memory Problems System Lights Mouse Problems Battery Problems Network Problems Card Problems Power Problems Drive Problems Printer Problems Dropped or Damaged Computer Serial or Parallel Device Problems E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Sound and Speaker Problems Error Messages System Board Problems General Problems Vi
yellow A possible floppy or hard drive green failure has occurred. green yellow Reseat all power and data cables and restart the computer. green A possible USB failure has green occurred. green yellow Reinstall all USB devices, check cable connections, and then restart the computer. yellow No memory modules are yellow detected. yellow green l yellow green yellow green l l Memory modules are detected, but a memory configuration or compatibility error exists.
4-2-2 Shutdown failure 4-2-3 Gate A20 failure 4-2-4 Unexpected interrupt in protected mode 4-3-1 Memory failure above address 0FFFFh 4-3-3 Timer-chip counter 2 failure 4-3-4 Time-of-day clock stopped 4-4-1 Serial or parallel port test failure 4-4-2 Failure to decompress code to shadowed memory 4-4-3 Math-coprocessor test failure 4-4-4 Cache test failure System Lights Located on the front of the computer, these lights can indicate a computer problem.
For instructions on which cables should be attached to specific connectors on a card, see the card's documentation. 4. Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on. Test the video card — 1. Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer cover. Remove all cards except the video card. 2.
Clean the drive — Use a commercially available cleaning kit. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." Remove and reinstall the floppy drive — See the "Drives" section pertinent to your computer chassis. CD drive problems Adjust the Windows volume control — Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. l l Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.
Type scandisk x: at an MS-DOS prompt, where x is the hard drive letter, and then press Run the Dell Diagnostics — . If any of the diagnostics tests fail, contact Dell. Dropped or Damaged Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "Safety Instructions." Check the card and cable connections — 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer cover.
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 and report the checkpoint code (nnnn) to the support technician. Attachment failed to respond — The floppy or hard drive controller cannot send data to the associated drive.
No boot sector on hard-disk drive — The computer configuration information in system setup might be incorrect. Enter system setup and ensure that the computer configuration information for the hard drive is correct. The operating system might have been corrupted. Reinstall the operating system. See your operating system documentation for reinstallation information. No timer tick interrupt — A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning. Run the Dell Diagnostics.
Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT 1. 2. 3. 4. Press simultaneously. Click Applications. Click the program that is no longer responding. Click End Task. Windows 98 1. 2. 3. Press simultaneously. Click the program that is no longer responding. Click End Task. A program crashes repeatedly Check the software documentation — Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you solve the problem.
l A sound card emits noise or demonstrates other problems. l Unintelligible characters print from the printer. l The mouse pointer does not move or "stutters" when it moves. l Messages appear stating that the computer is not operating at maximum performance. l Errors occur and programs crash for no apparent reason. l Nothing displays on the monitor.
1. 2. 3. Simultaneously press to display the Start menu. Type u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn Off, and then press . After the computer turns off, press the power button to restart the computer. Check the mouse cable — l l l Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins. Ensure that the mouse cable is connected to the green connector on the back panel.
l l l l l l is turned on. Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on. Ensure that the main power cable is securely connected to the system board. Ensure that the front panel cable is securely connected to the system board. Toggle the voltage selection switch on the back of the computer. If the problem persists, contact Dell.
Check the documentation for the device — See the device's documentation for troubleshooting procedures. Ensure that the device is turned on — Firmly press the device's power button. Check the device cable connections — Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for most device cable connectors to have missing pins.) Ensure that the device cable is firmly connected to the computer. Test the device cable — Swap the device's cable with a cable that works properly.
Check the power supply cable connections — 1. 2. 3. Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer cover. Ensure that the power cables from the power supply are firmly connected to the connectors on the system board. Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
Windows 98, 2000, and Windows NT® 1. 2. 3. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. Double-click the Display icon and click the Settings tab. Try different settings for Screen area or Desktop area.
Back to Contents Page Specifications Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Microprocessor Microprocessor type Intel® Pentium® 4 and Celeron®; design provides for future Dell-supported upgrades. A slower compatibility speed can be set through system setup.
USB 2.0 Bus speed PCI: 33 MHz AGP: 66 MHz Small form-factor computer low-profile cards are supported (card size =6.35 cm [2.5 inches] high by 16.76 cm [6.6 inches] long) AGP connector one connector size 172 pins connector data width (maximum) 32 bits bus protocols 8x/4x modes at 1.5 V PCI connector one connector size 120 pins connector data width (maximum) 32 bits Small desktop computer two half-length PCI cards (card size = 10.67 cm [4.2 inches] high by 17.65 cm [6.
USB two front-panel and six back-panel USB 2.
Width 31.9 cm (12.54 inches) Depth 35.4 cm (13.93 inches) Weight 6 kg (14 lbs) Small desktop computer: Height 10.6 cm (4.2 inches) Width 38.9 cm (15.3 inches) Depth 43.2 cm (17 inches) Weight 9.9 kg (22 lbs) Small mini-tower computer: Height 42.5 cm (16.7 inches) Width 18.1 cm (7.1 inches) Depth 44.7 cm (17.6 inches) Weight 14.
Back to Contents Page Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide 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. For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "Glossary.
Back to Contents Page Warranty and Return Policy Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Dell Computer Corporation ("Dell") manufactures its hardware products from parts and components that are new or equivalent to new in accordance with industry-standard practices. For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Setup and Quick Reference Guide.
Back to Contents Page Microsoft® Windows® XP Features Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX270 Systems User's Guide Transferring Information to a New Computer User Accounts and Fast User Switching Setting Up a Home and Office Network Transferring Information to a New Computer The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer wizard to move data from the source computer to the new computer.
4. Under Name the new account, type the name of the new user and click Next. 5. Under Pick an account type, click one of the following options: 6. l Computer administrator — You can change all computer settings. l Limited — You can change only your own personal settings, such as your password. You cannot install programs or use the Internet. Click Create Account.
