INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE
INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE Model P03T Type P03T001
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death. If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.
Contents Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop ������������������5 Display Features �������������������������������������������� 28 Before Setting Up Your Computer ���������������� 5 Removing and Replacing the Battery ���������� 30 Connect the AC Adapter �������������������������������� 6 Software Features ���������������������������������������� 32 Connect the Network Cable (Optional) ���������� 7 Dell Dock �������������������������������������������������������� 35 Press the Power Button ���������
Contents Restoring Your Operating System ��������������49 System Restore ���������������������������������������������� 50 Finding More Information and Resources ����������������������������������������������������62 Dell Factory Image Restore �������������������������� 51 Basic Specifications ����������������������������������64 Operating System Reinstallation ������������������ 53 Appendix ������������������������������������������������������70 Getting Help ������������������������������������
This section provides information about setting up your Inspiron™ 11 laptop. Before Setting Up Your Computer When positioning your computer, ensure that you allow easy access to a power source, adequate ventilation, and a level surface to place your computer. Restricting airflow around your Inspiron laptop may cause it to overheat. To prevent overheating ensure that you leave at least 10.2 cm (4 inches) at the back of the computer and a minimum of 5.1 cm (2 inches) on all other sides.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Connect the AC Adapter Connect the AC adapter to the computer and then plug it into an electrical outlet or surge protector. WARNING: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to a power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or permanent damage to your computer.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Connect the Network Cable (Optional) To use a wired network connection, connect the network cable.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Press the Power Button 8
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Set Up Microsoft Windows Your Dell computer is preconfigured with Microsoft Windows operating system. To set up Windows for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete. The Windows setup screens will take you through several procedures including accepting license agreements, setting preferences, and setting up an Internet connection. CAUTION: Do not interrupt the operating system’s setup process.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Install the SIM (Optional) Installing a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card allows you to browse the Internet, check e-mail, and connect to a Virtual Private Network. To access these features, you must be within the network of your cellular service provider. NOTE: Installing a SIM is not required if you are using an EVDO card to access the Internet.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop To install the SIM: 1. Turn off your computer. 2. Remove the battery (see “Removing and Replacing the Battery” on 30). 3. In the battery bay, slide the SIM into the SIM card slot. 4. Replace the battery (see “Removing and Replacing the Battery” on 30). 5. Turn on your computer. To remove the SIM, press and eject the SIM.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional) 12
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop To enable wireless: 1. Ensure that your computer is turned on. 2. Press the wireless key on the keyboard. The Wireless Radio Control dialog box appears. 3. Select the options you want to enable. 4. Click OK. To disable wireless: 1. Press the wireless key on the keyboard. The Wireless Radio Control dialog box appears. 2. Clear the options you want to disable. 3. Click OK.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Connect to the Internet (Optional) Setting Up a Wired Connection To connect to the Internet, you need an external modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). • If you are using a dial-up connection, connect the telephone line to the optional external USB modem and to the telephone wall connector before you set up your Internet connection.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Setting Up a Wireless Connection Windows® 7 Before you can use your wireless Internet connection, you need to connect to your wireless router. 1. Ensure that wireless is enabled on your computer (see “Enable or Disable Wireless” on page 12). To set up your connection to a wireless router: 2. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. Windows Vista® 1. Ensure that wireless is enabled on your computer (see “Enable or Disable Wireless” on page 12). 2.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Setting Up Your Internet Connection ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. Contact your ISP for offerings available in your country. Windows Vista® NOTE: The following instructions are applicable for the Windows default view, and may not apply if you set your computer to the Windows Classic view. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Windows® 7 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2. Click Start → Control Panel→ Network and Sharing Center→ Set up a new connection or network→ Connect to the Internet. The Connect to the Internet window appears. NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose or contact your ISP. 3. Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
INSPIRON Using Your Inspiron Laptop This section provides information about the features available on your Inspiron 11 laptop.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 3-in-1 Media Card Reader — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, videos, and documents stored on the following digital memory cards: • Secure Digital (SD) memory card • Memory Stick • Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) card • Memory Stick PRO • Multi Media Card (MMC/MMC+) 2 Audio out/Headphone connector — Connects to a pair of headphones, or sends audio to a powered speaker or sound system.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Left Side Features 1 20 2 3
Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 2 Network connector — Connects your computer to a network or a broadband device if you are using a wired network. The two lights next to the connector indicate status and activity for a wired network connection. HDMI connector — Connects to a TV for both 5.1 audio and video signals. NOTE: When used with a monitor, only the video signal is read. 3 Power USB connector — Connects to USB devices that require more power, such as certain printers and bar code scanners.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Computer Base Features 1 22 2 3 4
Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 Power/Battery indicator light — The light indicates the following states when powered using an AC adapter or a battery.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Touch Pad Gestures Scroll Allows you to scroll through content. The scroll feature includes: Traditional Scroll – Allows you to scroll up and down, or right and left. Zoom Allows you to increase or decrease the magnification of the screen content. The zoom feature includes: Pinch – Allows you to zoom in or zoom out by moving two fingers apart or bringing them closer together on the touch pad.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Customizing the Touch Pad Settings Rotate Allows you to rotate the active content on the screen. The rotate feature includes: Twist – Allows you to rotate active content in 90° increments using two fingers where one finger is anchored and the other rotates. Keeping the thumb in place, move the index finger in an arced direction right or left to rotate the selected item 90° clockwise or counterclockwise.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Media Controls The media control keys are located on the keyboard. To use the media controls, press the required key. You can use the Function Key Behavior setting in the System Setup (BIOS) Utility to configure the media control keys. System Setup (BIOS) Utility – 1. Press during POST (Power On Self Test) to enter the System Setup (BIOS) utility. 2. In the Function Key Behavior, select Multimedia or Function. Multimedia – This is the default option.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Mute the sound Play or pause Decrease the volume level Play the next track or chapter Increase the volume level Eject the disc from the optional external optical drive Play the previous track or chapter 27
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Display Features The display panel holds a camera and an accompanying microphone.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 Microphone — Provides high quality sound for video conferencing and voice recording. 2 Camera — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. 3 Camera activity indicator — Indicates if the camera is on or off. 4 Display — For more information about displays, see the Dell Technology Guide.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Removing and Replacing the Battery WARNING: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer. WARNING: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. This computer should only use a battery purchased from Dell. Do not use batteries from other computers. WARNING: Before removing the battery, shut down the computer, and remove external cables (including the AC adapter).
Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 2 1 battery 2 battery release latches (2) 31
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Software Features NOTE: For more information about the features described in this section, see the Dell Technology Guide on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals. Productivity and Communication You can use your computer to create presentations, brochures, greeting cards, fliers, and spreadsheets. You can also edit and view digital photographs and images. Check your purchase order for software installed on your computer.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Customizing the Desktop Customizing Your Energy Settings You can customize your desktop to change the appearance, resolution, wallpaper, screensaver, or other features of your desktop. You can use the power options in your operating system to configure the power settings on your computer. The Microsoft Windows operating system installed on your Dell computer provides three default options: Windows Vista® 1. Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Transferring Information to a New Computer Windows Vista NOTE: The following instructions are applicable for the Windows default view, and may not apply if you set your computer to the Windows Classic view. 1. Click Start → Control Panel→ System and Maintenance→ Welcome Center→ Transfer files and settings. If the User Account Control window appears, click Continue. 2. Follow the instructions in the Windows Easy Transfer wizard. Windows 7 1. Click Start → Control Panel.
The Dell Dock is a group of icons that provides easy access to frequently-used applications, files, and folders. You can personalize the Dock by: • Adding or removing icons • Changing the color and location of the Dock • Grouping related icons into categories Add a Category • Changing the behavior of the icons Remove a Category or Icon 1. Right-click the Dock, click Add→ Category. The Add/Edit Category window is displayed. 1.
INSPIRON Solving Problems This section provides troubleshooting information for your computer. If you cannot solve your problem using the following guidelines, see “Using Support Tools” on page 43 or “Contacting Dell” on page 61. WARNING: Only trained service personnel should remove the computer cover. See the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals for advanced service instructions.
Solving Problems Network Problems Wireless Connections If the wireless network connection is lost — The wireless router is offline or wireless has been disabled on the computer. • Check your wireless router to ensure it is powered on and connected to your data source (cable modem or network hub). • Interference may be blocking or interrupting your wireless connection. Try moving the computer closer to your wireless router.
Solving Problems Power Problems If the power light is off — The computer is either turned off, is not receiving power, or in hibernate state. • Press the power button. The computer resumes normal operation if it is off or in hibernate mode. • Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the computer and the electrical outlet. • If the AC adapter is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on.
Solving Problems If the power light is breathing white and the computer is not responding — The computer is in standby mode or the display may not be responding. • Press a key on the keyboard, move the connected mouse or a finger on the touch pad, or press the power button to resume normal operation. • If the display is not responding, press the power button until the computer turns off and then turn it back on. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 61).
Solving Problems Memory Problems If you receive an insufficient memory message — • Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem. • See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 61). If you experience other memory problems — • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 45).
Solving Problems If a program crashes repeatedly — Check the software documentation. If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program. NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on the CD. If the computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears — WARNING: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
Solving Problems Windows® 7 1. Click Start 2. In the search box, type Use an older program with this version of Windows and press 3. Follow the instructions on the Program Compatibility wizard. • 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. • Back up your files immediately.
INSPIRON Using Support Tools Dell Support Center The Dell Support Center helps you find the service, support, and system-specific information you need. To launch the application, click the taskbar. icon in the The Dell Support Center home page displays your computer’s model number, service tag, express service code, and service contact information.
Using Support Tools System Messages If your computer has an issue or an error, it may display a System Message that will help you identify the cause and action needed to resolve the issue. NOTE: If the message you received is not listed in the following examples, see the documentation for either the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared. Alternatively you could see the Dell Technology Guide on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.
Using Support Tools Hardware Troubleshooter Dell Diagnostics If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility. If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in “Lockups and Software Problems” on page 40 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance. To start the Hardware Troubleshooter: 1.
Using Support Tools Starting Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive. NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 61). 1. Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly. 2. Turn on (or restart) your computer. 3. When the DELL logo appears, press immediately.
Using Support Tools c. If you are experiencing memory issues, press otherwise press . The following message is displayed: “Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue.” d. Press any key to continue. The Choose An Option window appears. If PSA is not invoked: Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive and to go to the Choose An Option window. 4. Select the test you want to run. 5.
Using Support Tools NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop; then, shut down your computer and try again. NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the system setup program. 3. When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW and press . 4.
NOTE: Your computer does not have an internal optical drive. Use an external optical drive or any external storage device for the procedures that involve discs. You can restore your operating system in the following ways: • System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your operating system and preserving data files.
Restoring Your Operating System System Restore The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. Any changes that System Restore makes to your computer are completely reversible. CAUTION: Make regular backups of your data files.
Restoring Your Operating System Undoing the Last System Restore NOTE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete. 1. Click Start . 2. In the Start Search box, type System Restore and press . 3. Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
Restoring Your Operating System Use Dell Factory Image Restore only as the last method to restore your operating system. This option restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer—including data files—are permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on.
Restoring Your Operating System 7. Click Next. The Confirm Data Deletion screen appears. NOTE: If you do not want to proceed with Factory Image Restore, click Cancel. 8. Select the checkbox to confirm that you want to continue reformatting the hard drive and restoring the system software to the factory condition, then click Next. The restore process begins and may take five or more minutes to complete.
Restoring Your Operating System To reinstall Windows, you need the following: • Dell Operating System disc • Dell Drivers and Utilities disc NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities disc contains drivers that were installed during the assembly of the computer. Use the Dell Drivers and Utilities disc to load any required drivers.
If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem: 1. See “Solving Problems” on page 36 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. 2. See the Dell Technology Guide on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals for more troubleshooting information. 3. See “Dell Diagnostics” on page 45 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics. 4.
Getting Help Technical Support and Customer Service Dell’s support service is available to answer your questions about Dell hardware. Our support staff use computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers. To contact Dell’s support service, see “Before You Call” on page 60 and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com.
Getting Help Online Services You can learn about Dell products and services on the following websites: • www.dell.com • www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) • www.dell.com/jp (Japan only) • www.euro.dell.com (Europe only) • www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries) • www.dell.ca (Canada only) You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail addresses: Dell Support websites • support.dell.com • support.jp.dell.
Getting Help Automated Order-Status Service To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. For the telephone number to call your region, see “Contacting Dell” on page 61. If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance.
Getting Help Returning Items for Repair Under Warranty or for Credit Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: NOTE: Before you return the product to Dell, make sure to back up any data on the hard drive(s) and on any other storage device in the product. Remove any and all confidential, proprietary and personal information, as well as removable media, such as CDs and PC Cards.
Getting Help Before You Call NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also be asked for your Service Tag (located on the back or bottom of your computer). Remember to fill out the following Diagnostic Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer.
Getting Help See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the computer’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell. • Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code: • Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed: Contacting Dell For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW-DELL (800-999-3355).
INSPIRON Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: reinstall your operating system the Operating System disc run a diagnostic program for your computer, reinstall notebook system software, or update drivers for your computer, and readme files the Drivers and Utilities disc learn more about your operating system, maintaining peripherals, Internet, Bluetooth®, networking, and e-mail the Dell Technology Guide installed on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.
Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: find safety best practices information for your computer review Warranty information, Terms and Conditions (U.S. only), Safety instructions, Regulatory information, Ergonomics information, and End User License Agreement the safety and regulatory documents that shipped with your computer and also see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.
INSPIRON Basic Specifications System Model Processor Inspiron 11 Types This section provides information that you may need when setting up, updating drivers for, and upgrading your computer. For more detailed specifications, see the Comprehensive Specifications on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals. NOTE: Offerings may vary by region.
Basic Specifications Communications Connectors Network adapter 10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board Audio one microphone connector, one mono headphone/stereo speaker connector Mini-Card one full size Mini-Card slot and one half size Mini-Card slot, supports dual interface Network adapter one RJ45 connector USB Wireless internal WLAN Mini‑Card with WiFi Optional WWAN, WiMax, GPS, and Bluetooth® Mini-Cards Camera Pixel 1.3 megapixel two 4-pin USB 2.
Basic Specifications Display Type Battery 11.6-inch HD+ WLED with TrueLife Type Height 144 mm (5.7 inches) Computer off Width 256.12 mm (10.1 inches) Diagonal 293.83 mm (11.6 inches) Maximum resolution 1366 x 768 at 262 K colors Dimensions: 3-cell/6-cell lithium ion Charge time at room temperature (approximate): 3.0 hours (3-cell) 4.
Basic Specifications AC Adapter AC Adapter Input voltage 100–240 VAC Temperature range Input current (maximum) 1.5 A Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Input frequency 50–60 Hz Storage Output power 65 W –30° to 65°C (–22° to 149°F) Output current 3.34 A (continuous) Physical Rated output voltage 19.5 ± 1 VDC Height 16.4 mm to 25.8 mm (0.64 inches to 1.01 inches) Height 16 mm (0.63 inches) Width 292 mm (11.49 inches) Width 66 mm (2.6 inches) Depth 214 mm (8.
Basic Specifications Computer Environment Computer Environment Temperature range: Maximum shock (for operating: measured with Dell Diagnostics running on the hard drive and a 2-ms half-sine pulse; for non-operating: measured with hard drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms half-sine pulse): Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Relative humidity (maximum): Operating Storage 110 GRMS Non-Operating 160 GRMS Altitude (maximum): 10% to 90% (noncondensing) Opera
Basic Specifications 69
INSPIRON Appendix Macrovision Product Notice This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation.
Appendix Information for NOM, or Official Mexican Standard (only for Mexico) The following information is provided in the device(s) described in this document in accordance with the requirements of the Official Mexican Standard (NOM): Importer: Dell México S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 – Flat 11° Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F.
INSPIRON Index A AC adapter size and weight 67 airflow, allowing 5 B backups creating 34 C Contacting Dell online 61 customer service 56 customizing your desktop 33 your energy settings 33 D damage, avoiding 5 data, backing up 34 DellConnect 56 calling Dell 60 Dell Diagnostics 45 CDs, playing and creating 32 Dell Factory Image Restore 49 chipset 64 Dell Support Center 43 computer capabilities 32 Dell support website 63 computer, setting up 5 Dell Technology Guide conserving energy 33 72 fo
Index Diagnostic Checklist 60 help drivers and downloads 63 DVDs, playing and creating 32 E getting assistance and support 55 I Internet connection 14 email addresses for technical support 57 energy conserving 33 F ISP Internet Service Provider 14 M memory problems solving 40 finding more information 62 memory support 64 FTP login, anonymous 57 N H hardware problems network connection fixing 37 diagnosing 45 Hardware Troubleshooter 45 73
Index P support email addresses 57 power strips, using 6 processor 64 products information and purchasing 58 support sites worldwide 57 System Messages 44 System Restore 49 V R reinstalling Windows 54 resources, finding more 62 restoring factory image 51 S ventilation, ensuring 5 W warranty returns 59 Windows setup, before you begin 5 shipping products for return or repair 59 software features 32 software problems 40 specifications 64 74 reinstalling 53 Windows Vista Program Compatibility Wizard
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