Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M90 User's Guide Finding Information About Your Computer Transferring Information to a New Computer Using a Battery Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Using the Display Using Multimedia Using Networks Using Cards Securing Your Computer Troubleshooting System Setup Program Reinstalling Software Adding and Replacing Parts Dell™ QuickSet Traveling With Your Computer Getting Help Specifications Appendix Glossary NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make
Back to Contents Page About Your Computer Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Determining Your Computer's Configuration Front View Left Side View Right Side View Back View Bottom View Determining Your Computer's Configuration Based on selections that you made when purchasing your computer, your computer has one of several different video controller configurations. To determine your computer's video controller configuration: 1. Access the Windows Help and Support Center.
display — For more information about your display, see Using the Display. power button — Press to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power management mode. For more information on power management modes, see Power Management Modes. device status lights Turns on when you turn on the computer, and blinks when the computer is in a power management mode. Turns on when the computer reads or writes data. NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the flashing.
Mute the sound. Turn the volume down. Turn the volume up. Play or pause. Play the previous track. Play the next track. Stop. speakers — To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the media control buttons or speaker-volume keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see Speaker Functions. touch pad buttons — Touch pad buttons provide the same functionality as mouse buttons. keyboard — The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft Windows logo key.
Left Side View 1 security cable slot 3 USB connectors (2) 5 optical-drive-tray eject button 2 air vent 4 optical drive security cable slot — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more information, see Security Cable Lock. air vent — The computer uses fan(s) to create airflow through the vent(s), which prevents the computer from overheating. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents.
5-in-1media memory card reader — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card. The 5-in-1 media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory cards: ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ Secure Digital (SD) card/SDIO MultiMediaCard (MMC) Memory Stick Memory Stick PRO xD-Picture Card audio connectors Attach headphones or speakers to the Attach a microphone to the connector. connector.
NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network connector. Connects the computer to a network. The solid light on the connector provides link status information. Off indicates no link, green indicates a 10-Mb/sec link, orange indicates a 100-Mb/sec link, and yellow indicates a 1000-Mb/sec link. The blinking yellow light on the connector indicates activity on the wired network connection.
Bottom View 1 subwoofer 5 cover for optional internal card with Bluetooth® wireless technology 9 docking-device connector 2 battery charge/health gauge 6 hard drive 10 memory module cover 3 battery-bay latch release 7 air vent 11 air vent 4 battery 8 Mini-Card/modem cover 12 optical-drive security screw subwoofer — Produces a broader bass output than is provided by the speakers. battery charge/health gauge — Provides information on the battery charge status.
optical-drive security screw — Secures the optical drive in the optical drive bay. For more information, see Optical Drive.
Back to Contents Page Appendix Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Cleaning Your Computer Macrovision Product Notice FCC Notice (U.S. Only) Cleaning Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. Computer, Keyboard, and Display CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and remove any installed batteries.
FCC Notice (U.S. Only) FCC Class B This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction manual, may cause interference with radio and television reception. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1.
Back to Contents Page Using a Battery Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Battery Performance Checking the Battery Charge Conserving Battery Power Power Management Modes Configuring Power Management Settings Charging the Battery Replacing the Battery Storing a Battery Battery Performance NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer.
Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, double-click the If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon on the taskbar. icon appears.
NOTICE: If your computer loses AC or battery power while in standby mode, it may lose data. To enter standby mode: l Click Start® Shut Down® Stand by. or l Depending on how you set the power management options on the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window, use one of the following methods: ¡ Press the power button. ¡ Close the display. ¡ Press . To exit standby mode, press the power button or open the display depending on how you set the options on the Advanced tab.
Replacing the Battery CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet and the computer, disconnect the modem from the wall connector and computer, and remove any other external cables from the computer. NOTICE: You must remove all external cables from the computer to avoid possible connector damage. CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion.
Back to Contents Page Using Cards Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide ExpressCards Media Memory Cards ExpressCards ExpressCards leverage PC Card technology to provide a fast and convenient way to add memory, wired and wireless network communications (including wireless wide area network [WWAN] communications), multimedia, and security features to your computer. See Specifications for information on supported ExpressCards. NOTE: An ExpressCard is not a bootable device.
1 ExpressCard The computer recognizes the ExpressCard and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the CD that came with the ExpressCard. Removing an ExpressCard or Blank NOTICE: Use the ExpressCard configuration utility (click the icon in the taskbar) to select a card and stop it from functioning before you remove it from the computer.
Installing a Media Memory Card You can install a media memory card in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card. Media memory cards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) or a label to indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card.
Back to Contents Page Using the Display Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Adjusting Brightness Switching the Video Image Setting Display Resolution Adjusting Brightness When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard.
Back to Contents Page Finding Information Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or media may not be available in certain countries. NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
2. l l Service Tag and Express Service Code Microsoft Windows License Label Click the User's Guide for your computer. Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License These labels are located on the bottom of your computer.
NOTE: The Operating System CD may be optional and may not ship with your computer. The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the optional Operating System CD. See Reinstalling Windows XP. After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities CD (ResourceCD) to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer. NOTE: The color of your CD varies based on the operating system you ordered.
Back to Contents Page Glossary Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide A I S B K T C L U D M V E N W F O X G P Z H R 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 in to an electrical outlet.
C C — Celsius — A temperature measurement scale where 0° is the freezing point and 100° is the boiling point of water. cache — A special high-speed storage mechanism which can be either a reserved section of main memory or an independent high-speed storage device. The cache enhances the efficiency of many processor operations. L1 cache — Primary cache stored inside the processor. L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external to the processor or incorporated into the processor architecture.
DVD player — The software used to watch DVD movies. The DVD player displays a window with buttons that you use to watch a movie. DVD-R — DVD recordable — A recordable version of a DVD. Data can be recorded only once onto a DVD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over. DVD+RW — DVD rewritable — A rewritable version of a DVD. Data can be written to a DVD+RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). (DVD+RW technology is different from DVD-RW technology.
operating systems are GUIs. H hard drive — A drive that reads and writes data on a hard disk. The terms hard drive and hard disk are often used interchangeably. heat sink — A metal plate on some processors that helps dissipate heat. help file — A file that contains descriptive or instructional information about a product. Some help files are associated with a particular program, such as Help in Microsoft Word. Other help files function as stand-alone reference sources.
M Mb — megabit — A measurement of memory chip capacity that equals 1024 Kb. Mbps — megabits per second — One million bits per second. This measurement is typically used for transmission speeds for networks and modems. MB — megabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB equals 1024 KB. When used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often rounded to 1,000,000 bytes. MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes per second.
PIN — personal identification number — A sequence of numerals and/or letters used to restrict unauthorized access to computer networks and other secure systems. PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two devices through the processor as part of the data path. pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are arranged in rows and columns to create an image.
software — Anything that can be stored electronically, such as computer files or programs. S/PDIF — Sony/Philips Digital Interface — An audio transfer file format that allows the transfer of audio from one file to another without converting it to and from an analog format, which could degrade the quality of the file. standby mode — A power management mode that shuts down all unnecessary computer operations to save energy.
virus — A program that is designed to inconvenience you or to destroy data stored on your computer. A virus program moves from one computer to another through an infected disk, software downloaded from the Internet, or e-mail attachments. When an infected program starts, its embedded virus also starts. A common type of virus is a boot virus, which is stored in the boot sectors of a floppy disk.
Back to Contents Page Getting Help Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Obtaining Assistance Problems With Your Order Product Information Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Before You Call Contacting Dell Obtaining Assistance CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer covers, first disconnect the computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets. 1. Complete the procedures in "Troubleshooting". See Troubleshooting. 2. Run the Dell Diagnostics.
support.jp.dell.com (Japan only) support.euro.dell.com (Europe only) l Electronic Quote Service apmarketing@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only) sales_canada@dell.com (Canada only) AutoTech Service Dell's automated technical support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and desktop computers. When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your questions.
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. Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for technical assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer.
Sales Aruba Australia (Sydney) International Access Code: 0011 General Support Website: support.ap.dell.com E-mail: support.ap.dell.com/contactus 0-810-444-3355 toll-free: 800-1578 Country Code: 61 City Code: 2 General Support Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.
Customer Care E-mail: customer_cn@dell.
Fax (calls from outside of France) City Codes: (1) (4) Corporate Technical Support Customer Care 0825 004 719 0825 338 339 Switchboard 01 55 94 71 00 Sales 01 55 94 71 00 Fax 01 55 94 71 01 Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.
Home and Small Business Italy (Milan) International Access Code: 00 Country Code: 39 City Code: 02 02 577 826 90 Customer Care 02 696 821 14 Fax 02 696 821 13 Switchboard 02 696 821 12 Corporate 02 577 826 90 Customer Care 02 577 825 55 Fax 02 575 035 30 General Support (dial from within Jamaica only) Website: support.jp.dell.
001-877-384-8979 Customer Technical Support or 001-877-269-3383 50-81-8800 Mexico Sales or 01-800-888-3355 International Access Code: 00 001-877-384-8979 Country Code: 52 Customer Service or 001-877-269-3383 50-81-8800 Main or 01-800-888-3355 Montserrat General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6822 Netherlands Antilles General Support 001-800-882-1519 Website: support.euro.dell.
005 Country Code: 65 Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) Customer Care Transaction Sales Corporate Sales Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: czech_dell@dell.
Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision) toll-free: 1800 0060 07 Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) toll-free: 1800 0600 09 International Access Code: 001 Customer Care toll-free: 1800 006 007 (option 7) Country Code: 66 Corporate Sales toll-free: 1800 006 009 Transaction Sales toll-free: 1800 006 006 Thailand Trinidad/Tobago General Support 1-800-805-8035 Turks and Caicos Islands General Support toll-free: 1-866-540-3355 Website: supp
Back to Contents Page Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Numeric Keypad Key Combinations Touch Pad Numeric Keypad The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, press and the desired key after enabling the keypad. l To enable the keypad, press .
and downarrow key Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). Wireless Networking and Bluetooth® Wireless Technology Function Enables and disables wireless networking and Bluetooth wireless technology. Power Management Activates a power management mode. You can reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window. See Power Management Modes.
The touch pad has silk screening on the right side and the bottom to indicate scrolling abilities. Scrolling is enabled by default. To disable this feature, modify the mouse properties within the Control Panel. NOTE: The scroll zones may not work with all applications. For the scroll zones to function properly, the application being used must support the touch pad scroll feature.
Back to Contents Page Using Multimedia Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Playing CDs or DVDs Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device Playing CDs or DVDs NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing CDs or DVDs. 1. Press the eject button on the front of the drive. 2. Pull out the tray. 3.
Mute the sound. Turn the volume down. Turn the volume up. Play or pause. Play the previous track. Play the next track. Stop. You can also adjust the volume with the Volume Control option through the Start menu. 1. Click Start® All Programs® Accessories® Entertainment® Volume Control. 2. Click and drag the bar in the Volume Control column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume. For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.
Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio device may not be included with your computer. Cables and TV/digital audio adapter cables are available for purchase from Dell. Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with a standard S-video cable, a composite video adapter cable, or a component video adapter cable (available from Dell), enable you to connect the computer to a TV.
1 audio connector 1 standard S-video cable 2 S-video TV-out connector 2 standard audio cable Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 1. NOTE: You can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer (without the TV/digital audio adapter cable) if your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio. 2. Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the computer. 3.
1 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable 4. Plug the other end of the S-video cable into the S-video input connector on the TV. 5. Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the digital audio connector on the composite video adapter cable. 1 composite video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable 6. Plug the other end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the audio input connector on your TV or audio device. 7.
1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable 4. Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the TV. 5. Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on the computer. 6. Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device. 7.
5. 1 Plug one end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable in to the S/PDIF audio connector on the composite video adapter. composite video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable 6. Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device. 7. Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 8.
4. Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable into the component video- input connectors on the TV. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the colors of the TV input connectors. 5. Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on the computer. 6. Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on your TV or audio device. 7.
1 component video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable 6. Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device. 7. Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 8. See Enabling the Display Settings for a TV to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
4. Click the DVD option. 5. Click the DVD Audio Setting icon. 6. Click the arrows beside the Speaker Configuration setting to scroll through the options, and select the Headphones option. 7. Click the arrows beside the Audio listening mode setting to scroll through the options, and select the CL Headphone option. 8. Click the arrows beside the Dynamic range compression option to select the most suitable option. 9.
Back to Contents Page Using Networks Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem Network Setup Wizard Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Connecting to a WLAN Mobile Broadband Internet Connection Firewall Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a network adapter installed and a network cable connected to it. To connect a network cable: 1.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) A WLAN is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each computer. In a WLAN, a radio communications device called an access point or wireless router connects network computers and provides Internet, or network, access. The access point or wireless router and the wireless network card in the computer communicate by broadcasting data from their antennas over the air waves.
5. Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet. 6. Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem. NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before you continue with the network setup. 7. Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that there is no power connected to the router. 8. Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered broadband modem. 9.
For specific information about the wireless configuration utility installed on your computer, see your wireless network documentation in the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center: 1. Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2. Under Pick a Help topic, click Dell User and System Guides. 3. Under Device Guides, select the documentation for your wireless network card.
Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To determine your computer configuration, see one of the following: l Your order confirmation l Microsoft® Windows® Help and Support Center To check your Mobile Broadband card in the Help and Support Center: 1. Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2.
Back to Contents Page Adding and Replacing Parts Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Before You Begin Hinge Cover Hard Drive Keyboard Memory Coin-Cell Battery Modem Optical Drive Mini-Card Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology Before You Begin This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer.
2. Turn off your computer. See Turning Off Your Computer. 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 network cables from the computer. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you service the computer. 4. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets. 5. Remove the battery.
1 hard drive screws (2) 2 hard drive NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. See "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide. 3. Slide the hard drive out of the computer. 4. Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive. NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you begin working inside the computer. 1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin. 2. Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer. NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer. 3. Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the memory module cover, and then remove the cover.
6. Replace the memory module cover. NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer. 7. Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet. 8. Reinstall the hard drive. See Hard Drive. 9. Reinstall the optical drive. See Optical Drive. 10. Turn on the computer.
1 modem 3 modem cable 5 modem screw 2 modem pull-tab 4 modem connector on system board 5. Install the replacement modem: a. Connect the modem cable to the modem. NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors and realign the card. 6. b. Align the modem with the screw holes and press the modem into the connector on the system board. c. Replace the screw that secures the modem to the system board.
4. If a Mini-Card is not already installed, go to step 5. If you are replacing a Mini-Card, remove the existing card: a. 1 Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini-Card. antenna connectors (2) 1 2 Mini-Card 3 Mini-Card connector b. Release the Mini-Card by pushing the metal securing clips toward the back of the computer until the card pops up slightly. c. Lift the Mini-Card out of its connector.
NOTE: If your computer has a gray cable, connect it to the connector with the gray triangle, if one is available on your card. 6. Replace the Mini-Card/modem cover. Hinge Cover CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
2. Open the display and remove the hinge cover. See Hinge Cover. 3. Remove the keyboard: a. Remove the two screws at the top of the keyboard. NOTICE: The key caps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard. b. Lift the keyboard and hold it up and slightly forward to access to the keyboard connector. c.
5. Install the replacement battery: a. Insert the battery at a 30-degree angle under the release latch with the positive side up, and then push the battery into place. b. Connect the battery cable to the connector on the system board. 6. Replace the keyboard (see Keyboard). 7. Replace the hinge cover (see Hinge Cover). Optical Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. 1.
1 cable connector 3 card cover 2 card 4 cover screw 5. To replace the card, connect the card to the cable and then carefully insert it into the compartment. 6. Replace the card cover and tighten the screw. 7. Replace the battery.
Back to Contents Page Dell™ QuickSet Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer. Dell™ QuickSet provides you with easy access to configure or view the following types of settings: l Network connectivity l Power management l Display l System information Depending on what you want to do in Dell™ QuickSet, you can start it by either clicking, double-clicking, or right-clicking the QuickSet icon, Microsoft® Windows® taskbar.
Back to Contents Page Securing Your Computer Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Security Cable Lock Smart Cards Installing a Smart Card Passwords Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Computer Tracking Software If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen Alert Standard Format (ASF) Security Cable Lock NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock. A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device.
1 gold contact pad 2. 2 smart card (top) Slide the smart card into the smart card slot until the card is completely seated in its connector. The smart card will protrude approximately 1/2 inch from the slot. If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again. 1 smart card slot 2 smart card 3 ExpressCard slot Passwords About Passwords NOTE: Passwords are disabled when you receive your computer.
passwords. l It is recommended that you do not write down passwords. If you do write it down, however, ensure that the password is stored in a secure place. l Do not share passwords with other people. l Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password(s). NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However, they are not foolproof.
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) NOTE: The TPM feature supports encryption only if the operating system supports TPM. For more information, see the TPM software documentation and the help files that came with the software. TPM is a hardware-based security feature that can be used to create and manage computer-generated encryption keys. When combined with security software, the TPM enhances existing network and computer security by enabling features such as file protection capabilities and protected e-mail.
If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen Call a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer. Include the Service Tag in your description of the computer. Ask that a case number be assigned and write down the number, along with the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. If possible, obtain the name of the investigating officer. l NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area.
Back to Contents Page System Setup Program Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Overview System Setup Screens Commonly Used Options Overview NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in system setup, thus overriding options that you set through system setup. (An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through system setup.
l Modular bay HDD l Internal HDD l CD/DVD/CD-RW drive NOTE: You can only boot (start up) your computer from a CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive installed as a fixed drive. You cannot boot from one of these modules if it is installed in the module bay. During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device for the operating system start-up files. When the computer finds the files, it stops searching and starts the operating system.
Back to Contents Page Reinstalling Software Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Drivers Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Restoring Your Operating System Drivers What Is a Driver? A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices require a driver program. A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes.
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. Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties. 7. Click the Drivers tab. 8. Click Roll Back Driver. If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the new driver.
8. Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files. 9. When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next. 10. Click Finish and restart your computer. Software and Hardware Incompatibilities 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. To start the Hardware Troubleshooter: 1.
4. Select a restore point and click Next. If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected. If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer. Click Next. 5. The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the computer restarts. After the computer restarts, click OK. 6.
3. Restart the computer. 4. Press immediately after the DELL™ logo appears. If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again. 5. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
Back to Contents Page Specifications Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide NOTE: Your computer comes in different configurations. To determine the configuration of your computer, see Determining Your Computer's Configuration.
adapter Ports and Connectors Audio microphone-in connector, stereo headphones/speakers connector IEEE 1394a 4-pin mini, nonpowered connector Modem RJ-11 port Network adapter RJ-45 port S-video TV-out 7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-video to composite video adapter cable; optional S-video to component video adapter cable) USB six 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors Video 15-pin connector DVI-D (Digital Video Interface) 24-pin connector Communications Modem: Type V.
Maximum resolutions: WXGA+ 1440 x 900 at 16.7 million colors WUXGA 1920 x 1200 at 16.7 million colors Refresh rate 60 Hz Operating angle 0º (closed) to 180° Viewing angle (typical): Horizontal ±40° (WXGA) ±60° (WUXGA) Vertical +15°/–30° (WXGA) ±45° (WUXGA) Pixel pitch: WXGA+ 0.255 mm (17-inch display) WUXGA 0.191 mm (17-inch display) Power consumption (panel with backlight) (typical): 7.
Input voltage 90–264 VAC Input current (maximum) 2.5 A Input frequency 47–63 Hz Output current 7.7 A (maximum at 4-second pulse); 6.67 A (continuous) Output power 130 W Rated output voltage 19.5 VDC Dimensions: Height 36 mm (1.35 inches) Width 65 mm (2.39 inches) Depth 169.5 mm (6.04 inches) Weight (with cables) 0.76 kg (1.68 lb) Temperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Physical Height 41.5 mm (1.
Back to Contents Page Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M90 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 Glossary.
Back to Contents Page Transferring Information to a New Computer Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data from a source computer to a new computer.
Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the Operating System CD, you must create a wizard disk that will allow you to create a backup image file to removable media. To create a wizard disk, use your new computer with Windows XP and perform the following steps: 1. Click Start® All Programs® Accessories® System Tools® Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. 2.
Back to Contents Page Traveling With Your Computer Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Identifying Your Computer Packing the Computer Travel Tips Identifying Your Computer l Attach a name tag or business card to the computer. l Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case. Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell. l Create a file on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop called if_found.
the use of electronic devices during takeoff and landing.
Back to Contents Page Troubleshooting Dell Precision™ M90 User's Guide Dell Technical Update Service Lockups and Software Problems Dell Diagnostics Memory Problems Dell Support Utility Network Problems Drive Problems Power Problems E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Printer Problems Error Messages Scanner Problems ExpressCard Problems Sound and Speaker Problems IEEE 1394 Device Problems Touch Pad or Mouse Problems Keyboard Problems Video and Display
l During the assessment, answer any questions that appear. l If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart the computer, press ; to continue to the next test, press ; to retest the component that failed, press . l If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s) and contact Dell. See Contacting Dell.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from the system setup program, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names of all the components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer. Parameters 4. 5. Allows you to customize the test by changing the test settings.
perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive. Test the drive — l Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective. l Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer. Clean the drive or disk — See Cleaning Your Computer.
1. Click the Start button and click My Computer. 2. Right-click Local Disk C:. 3. Click Properties. 4. Click the Tools tab. 5. Under Error-checking, click Check Now. 6. Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors. 7. Click Start. E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only.
Scan the computer for spyware — If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.
Hard-disk drive controller failure 0 — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see Hard Drive), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics. See Dell Diagnostics. Hard-disk drive failure — The hard drive does not respond to commands from the computer.
Not enough memory or resources. Exit some programs and try again — You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. Operating system not found — Reinstall the hard drive (see Hard Drive). If the problem persists, contact Dell. See Contacting Dell. Optional ROM bad checksum — The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell. See Contacting Dell. A required .DLL file was not found — The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file.
NOTE: The ExpressCard slot does not support PC Cards. Check the ExpressCard — Ensure that the ExpressCard is properly inserted into the connector. Ensure that the card is recognized by Windows — Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed. If you have problems with a Dell-provided ExpressCard — Contact Dell. See Contacting Dell. If you have problems with an ExpressCard not provided by Dell — Contact the ExpressCard manufacturer.
If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard. To verify that the problem is with the external keyboard, check the integrated keyboard — 1. Shut down the computer. 2. Disconnect the external keyboard. 3. Turn on the computer. 4. From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to All Programs® Accessories, and click Notepad. 5. Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
® A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows® operating system Run the Program Compatibility Wizard — The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating system environments. 1. Click the Start button, point to All Programs® Accessories, and then click Program Compatibility Wizard. 2. In the welcome screen, click Next. 3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
If you experience other memory problems — l Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory (see Memory). l Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines. See Memory. l Run the Dell Diagnostics. See Dell Diagnostics. Network Problems Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see Diagnostics Checklist) as you complete these checks.
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see Diagnostics Checklist) as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Check the power light — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode— press the power button to exit standby mode. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer.
AC Power Loss While the Computer Is Docked If a computer loses AC power while docked to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port, the computer immediately goes into low-performance mode. Printer Problems Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see Diagnostics Checklist) as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
1. Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware. 2. Click Scanners and Cameras. If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner. Reinstall the scanner driver — See the scanner documentation for instructions. Sound and Speaker Problems Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see Diagnostics Checklist) as you complete these checks.
Adjust the Windows volume control — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. Touch Pad or Mouse Problems Check the touch pad settings — 1. Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware. 2. Click Mouse. 3. Try adjusting the settings. Check the mouse cable — Shut down the computer.
Check the AC adapter — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on. Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet — Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on. Adjust the power properties — Search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, see Windows Help and Support Center.
