SETUP GUIDE
SETUP GUIDE Regulatory model: D03M Regulatory type: D03M004
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. This item incorporates copy protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights of Rovi Corporation.
Contents Setting Up Your XPS Desktop ��������������5 Using Your XPS Desktop ��������������������18 Lifting Your Computer ������������������������������ 6 Front View Features ���������������������������������� 18 Before Setting Up Your Computer ���������� 7 Top View Features ����������������������������������20 Connect the Display ���������������������������������� 8 Back View Features ���������������������������������� 24 Connect the Keyboard and Mouse �������� 10 Back Panel Connectors �����
ontents C Using Support Tools ������������������������� 38 Dell Support Center �������������������������������� 38 Returning Items for Repair Under Warranty or for Credit ������������������������������ 57 My Dell Downloads ���������������������������������� 39 Before You Call ���������������������������������������� 59 System Messages ��������������������������������������40 Contacting Dell ���������������������������������������� 61 Hardware Troubleshooter ������������������������ 42 Finding
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop This section provides information about setting up your Dell XPS 8300 desktop. WARNING: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Lifting Your Computer To ensure safety and to avoid any damage to your computer, lift it by holding the lift points in the front and back of your computer.
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop 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 computer 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 XPS Desktop Connect the Display If you purchased the optional discrete graphics card, connect the display using the connector on the discrete graphics card. Otherwise, connect the display using either the integrated VGA or HDMI connector. NOTE: The integrated VGA and HDMI connectors are disabled and capped if your computer has a discrete graphics card. Use the appropriate cable based on the connectors available on your computer and display.
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop See the following table to identify the connectors on your computer and display.
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Connect the Keyboard and Mouse Connect the USB keyboard and mouse to the USB connectors on the back panel of your computer.
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Connect the Network Cable (Optional) A network connection is not required to complete your computer setup, but if you have an existing network or Internet connection that uses a cable connection (such as a broadband device or Ethernet jack), you can connect it now. NOTE: Use only an Ethernet cable (RJ45 connector) to connect to the network connector. Do not plug a telephone cable (RJ11 connector) into the network connector.
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Connect the Power Cable Press the Power Button 12
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Set Up the Operating System Your Dell computer is preconfigured with the 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.
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Create System Recovery Media (Recommended) NOTE: It is recommended that you create a system recovery media as soon as you set up Microsoft Windows. The system recovery media can be used to restore your computer to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer, while preserving data files (without the need of the Operating System disc).
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Set Up the TV Tuner (Optional) NOTE: Availability of the TV tuner may vary by region. Connect to the Internet (Optional) To set up the TV tuner: To connect to the Internet, you need an external modem or network connection and an Internet Service Provider (ISP). 1. Connect the TV/digital antenna cable or the cable adapter to the antenna-in connector on your computer. If an external USB modem or WLAN adapter is not a part of your original order, you can purchase one from www.
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Setting Up a Wireless Connection NOTE: To set up your wireless router, see the documentation that shipped with your router. Before you can use your wireless Internet connection, you need to connect to your wireless router. To set up your connection to a wireless router: 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2. Click Start → Control Panel. 3. In the search box, type network, and then click Network and Sharing Center→ Connect to a network. 4.
Setting Up Your XPS Desktop To set up your Internet connection: 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2. Click Start → Control Panel. 3. In the search box, type network, and then click 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. 4.
Using Your XPS Desktop This section provides information about the features available on your XPS desktop.
Using Your XPS Desktop 1 Media Card Reader light — Indicates if a media card is inserted. 2 Media Card Reader — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media card. 3 Optical drive — Plays or records CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs (optional). 4 Optical drive bay (optional) — Can contain an additional optical drive. 5 FlexBay slot — Can support an optional Dell FlexBay compatible device such as a front panel USB 3.0 compliant interface.
Using Your XPS Desktop Top View Features 1 2 7 3 6 4 5 20
Using Your XPS Desktop 1 Service Tag and Express Service Code — Used to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call technical support. 2 Microphone or line-in connector — Connects to a microphone or inputs signal for use with audio programs. • Off — The computer is either turned off, in hibernate mode, or is not receiving power. Headphone connector — Connects to a pair of headphones.
Using Your XPS Desktop 6 USB 2.0 connector — Connects to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player. 7 USB 2.0 connector with USB PowerShare — The USB PowerShare feature (disabled by default) allows you to charge portable devices that support USB charging even while your computer is powered on/off or in sleep state. This feature can be enabled/disabled using the system setup (BIOS) utility.
Using Your XPS Desktop 23
Using Your XPS Desktop Back View Features 1 2 3 6 5 4 24
Using Your XPS Desktop 1 Power connector — Connects to the power cable. The appearance of this connector may vary. 2 Power supply light — Indicates power availability of the power supply. NOTE: The power supply light may not be available on all computers. 3 Back panel connectors — Connect USB, audio, video, and other devices to the appropriate connectors. 5 Security cable slot — Attaches a commercially available security cable to the computer.
Using Your XPS Desktop Back Panel Connectors 1 S/PDIF connector — Connects to amplifiers, speakers, or TVs for digital audio output through optical cables. 2 HDMI connector — Connects to the HDMI connector on your display or TV. 3 eSATA connector — Connects to external SATA storage devices. 4 VGA connector — Connects to a monitor or projector. 5 USB 2.0 connectors (4) — Connect to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player.
Using Your XPS Desktop 7 Rear L/R surround connector — Connects to rear L/R surround speakers. 11 Center/subwoofer connector — Connects to a center speaker or subwoofer. 8 Microphone connector — Connects to a microphone for voice or to an audio cable for audio input. 12 9 Front L/R line-out connector — Connects to front L/R speakers. Network connector and light — Connects your computer to a network or a broadband device if you are using a wired network.
Using Your XPS Desktop Software Features 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. After connecting to the Internet, you can access websites, setup an e-mail accout, and upload or download files.
Using Your XPS Desktop Dell Dock The Dell Dock is a group of icons that provides easy access to frequently-used applications, files, and folders. You can personalize the Dock by: • Adding or removing icons • Changing the color and location of the Dock • Grouping related icons into categories • Changing the behavior of the icons Add a Category Remove a Category or Icon 1. Right-click the Dock, click Add→ Category. The Add/Edit Category window appears. 1.
Using Your XPS Desktop Dell DataSafe Online Backup NOTE: Dell DataSafe Online may not be available in all regions. NOTE: A broadband connection is recommended for fast upload/download speeds. Dell DataSafe Online is an automated backup and recovery service that helps protect your data and other important files from catastrophic incidents like theft, fire, or natural disasters. You can access the service on your computer using a password‑protected account. For more information, go to DellDataSafe.com.
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 38 or “Contacting Dell” on page 61. WARNING: Only trained service personnel should remove the computer cover. See the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals for advanced service instructions. Beep Codes Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if there are errors or problems.
Solving Problems Network Problems Wireless Connections If the 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). Wired Connections If the network connection is lost — The network cable is loose or damaged. • Check the network cable to ensure it is plugged in and not damaged.
Solving Problems Power Problems If the power light is off — The computer is in hibernate mode, turned off, or is not receiving power. • Press the power button. The computer resumes normal operation if it is off or in hibernate mode. • Reseat the power cable into the power connector on the computer and the electrical outlet. • If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on.
Solving Problems If the power light is blinking amber — The computer has detected an error during POST. There might be a problem with the system board or the power supply. For assistance, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 61). If you encounter interference that hinders reception on your computer — An unwanted signal is creating interference by interrupting or blocking other signals. Some possible causes of interference are: • Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables.
Solving Problems If you experience other memory problems — • Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals). • Check if the memory module is compatible with your computer. Your computer supports DDR3 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see “Specifications” on page 64. • Run Dell Diagnostics (see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 42). • Reseat the memory modules (see the Service Manual at support.
Solving Problems If the computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears — CAUTION: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off and then restart your computer. If a program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating system — Run the Program Compatibility Wizard.
Solving Problems • Back up your files immediately. –– Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly. • Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive or CDs. –– Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program. • Save and close any open files or programs and shut down your computer through the Start menu. –– If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
Using Support Tools Dell Support Center All the support you need – one convenient location. The Dell Support Center provides system alerts, performance improvement offers, system information, and links to other Dell tools and diagnostic services. To launch the application, click Start → All Programs→ Dell→ Dell Support Center→ Launch Dell Support Center.
Using Support Tools Detailed System Information — View detailed information about your hardware and operating system configurations; access copies of your service contracts, warranty information, and warranty renewal options. Get Help — View Dell Technical Support options, Customer Support, Tours and Training, Online Tools, Owner’s Manual, Warranty Information, FAQs, and so on. Backup and Recovery — Create recovery media, launch recovery tool, and online file backup.
Using Support Tools System Messages If your computer has an issue or 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 that appeared 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 or contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 61) for assistance.
Using Support Tools No boot device available — No bootable partition on hard drive, the hard drive cable is loose, or no bootable device exists. • If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the cables are connected and that the drive is installed properly and partitioned as a boot device. • Enter system setup and ensure that the boot sequence information is correct (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals).
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. To start the Hardware Troubleshooter: 1. Click Start → Help and Support. 2. Type hardware troubleshooter in the search field and press to start the search. 3.
Using Support Tools Starting Dell Diagnostics When you run Dell diagnostics, the computer invokes the Pre-boot System Assessment (PSA). The PSA includes a series of diagnostic tests for devices such as the system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, and so on. NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 61) for assistance. 1. Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly. 2.
Using Support Tools 8. If you are experiencing memory issues, press , otherwise press . The following message appears: “Pre-boot System Assessment complete. Please select OK to reboot your system.” 9. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and to restart the computer, select OK. Starting Dell PC Checkup Dell PC Checkup scans and tests your computer hardware. It provides automated fixes for common configuration issues. 1. Click Start → All Programs→ Dell→ Dell Support Center→ Launch PC Checkup. 2.
Restoring Your Operating System You can restore the operating system on your computer using any of the following options: CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image Restore or the Operating System disc to restore your operating system permanently deletes all data files on your computer. If possible, backup your data files before using these options.
Restoring Your Operating System System Restore The Microsoft Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. Any changes that System Restore makes to your computer are completely reversible. CAUTION: Make regular backups of your data files.
Restoring Your Operating System Undoing the Last System Restore NOTE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete. 1. Click Start . 2. In the search box, type System Restore and press . 3. Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
Restoring Your Operating System NOTE: If Dell DataSafe Local Backup is not available on your computer, use Dell Factory Image Restore (see “Dell Factory Image Restore” on page 51) to restore your operating system. You can use Dell DataSafe Local Backup to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer, while preserving the data files.
Restoring Your Operating System 6. Select Dell DataSafe Restore and Emergency Backup from the System Recovery Options menu and follow the instructions on the screen. NOTE: The restoration process may take an hour or more depending on the size of the data to be restored. NOTE: For more information, see knowledge base article 353560 at support.dell.com.
Restoring Your Operating System System Recovery Media CAUTION: Although the system recovery media is designed to preserve the data files on your computer, it is recommended that you backup your data files before using the system recovery media. You can use the system recovery media, created using Dell DataSafe Local Backup, to return your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer while preserving the data files.
Restoring Your Operating System Dell Factory Image Restore CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image Restore to restore your operating system permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using this option. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
Restoring Your Operating System 3. Select Repair Your Computer. The System Recovery Options window appears. 4. Select a keyboard layout and click Next. 5. To access the recovery options, log on as a local user. To access the command prompt, type administrator in the User name field, then click OK. 6. Click Dell Factory Image Restore. The Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen appears. NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select Dell Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore. 7.
Getting Help If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem: 1. See “Solving Problems” on page 31 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. 2. See “Dell Diagnostics” on page 42 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics. 3. Fill out the “Diagnostic Checklist” on page 60. 4. Use Dell’s extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support (support.dell.
Getting Help Technical Support and Customer Service Dell’s support service is available to answer your questions about Dell hardware. Our support staff use computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers. To contact Dell’s support service, see “Before You Call” on page 59 and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com.
Getting Help Online Services You can learn about Dell products and services on the following websites: • www.dell.com • www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) • www.dell.com/jp (Japan only) • www.euro.dell.com (Europe only) • www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries) • www.dell.ca (Canada only) You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail addresses: Dell Support Websites • support.dell.com • support.jp.dell.com (Japan only) • support.euro.dell.
Getting Help Automated Order-Status Service To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or packing slip handy when you call.
Getting Help Returning Items for Repair Under Warranty or for Credit 1. Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box. For the telephone number to call for your region, see “Contacting Dell” on page 61. Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: 2. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.
Getting Help 5. Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing materials. NOTE: You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted. NOTE: Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at Dell’s receiving dock and returned to you.
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 at the top of your computer). Locating Your Service Tag and Express Service Code The Service Tag and Express Service Code for your computer can be found on a label at the top of your computer.
Getting Help Remember to fill out the following Diagnostics Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the computer itself. Ensure that the computer documentation is available.
Getting Help See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the computer’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell. • Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code: • Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed: Contacting Dell For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW-DELL (800-999-3355).
Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: reinstall your operating system “System Recovery Media” on page 50 run a diagnostic program for your computer “Dell Diagnostics” on page 42 reinstall system software “My Dell Downloads” on page 39 for more information about the Microsoft Windows operating system and features support.dell.com upgrade your computer with new or additional components like a new hard drive the Service Manual at support.dell.
Finding More Information and Resources If you need to: See: find safety best practices information for your computer the safety and regulatory documents that shipped with your computer and also see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance review Warranty information, Terms and Conditions (U.S.
Specifications This section provides information that you may need when setting up, updating drivers for, and upgrading your computer. NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, see the Detailed System Information section in the Dell Support Center. To launch the Dell Support Center, click Start → All Programs→ Dell→ Dell Support Center→ Launch Dell Support Center. Computer Model Drives Dell XPS 8300 Internally accessible two 3.
Specifications Memory Audio Memory module connectors four user-accessible connectors Memory module capacities 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB Memory type 1333 MHz DDR3 nonECC memory only Minimum memory 3 GB Maximum memory 16 GB Possible memory configurations 3 GB, 4 GB, 6 GB, 8 GB, 12 GB, and 16 GB NOTE: For instructions on upgrading the memory, see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals. Audio controller Integrated 7.
Specifications Internal Connectors External Connectors Mini-PCIe one mini slot eSATA PCI Express x1 three 36-pin connectors one back-panel connector PCI Express x16 one 164-pin connector Network adapter one RJ45 connector SATA four 7-pin connectors USB two top-panel, two front-panel, and four back-panel USB 2.0 compliant connectors External Connectors Audio: Top panel Back panel S/PDIF 66 one stereo headphones/ speakers connector and one microphone-in connector six connectors for 7.
Specifications Battery Type Communication 3 V CR-2032 lithium coin-cell Power Network adapter 10/100/1000 Ethernet LAN on system board Wireless (optional) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless technology DC Power Supply Wattage 460 W Physical Input voltage 115/230 VAC Height 407.75 mm (16.05 inches) Input frequency 50/60 Hz Width 185.81 mm (7.31 inches) 8 A/4 A Depth 454.67 mm (17.90 inches) Weight 10.18 kg (22.
Specifications Computer Environment Computer Environment Temperature range: Maximum vibration (using a random vibration spectrum that simulates user environment): Operating 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F) Storage –40°C to 65°C (–40°F to 149°F) Relative humidity (maximum) 20% to 80% (noncondensing) Maximum shock (for operating — measured with Dell Diagnostics running on the hard drive and a 2-ms half-sine pulse; for non-operating — measured with the hard drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms half-s
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.
Index C calling Dell 59 CDs, playing and creating 28 computer capabilities 28 connect(ing) display 8 optional network cable 11 to the Internet 15 Contacting Dell online 61 customer service 54 D DataSafe Local Backup 47 DellConnect 54 Dell Diagnostics 42 Dell Factory Image Restore 51 70 Diagnostic Checklist 60 drivers and downloads 63 DVDs, playing and creating 28 E eject button 19 e-mail addresses for technical support 55 Express Service Code 21 F finding more information 62 front-side connectors 18 FTP
Index H N hard drive activity light 19 network connection fixing 32 hardware problems diagnosing 42 network connector Hardware Troubleshooter 42 HDMI connector 26 help getting assistance and support 53 location 27 P problems, solving 31 products I information and purchasing 56 Internet connection 15 ISP Internet Service Provider 15 M memory problems solving 34 R resources, finding more 62 restoring factory image 51 S security cable slot 25 Service Tag 21, 59 71
Index shipping products for return or repair 57 software features 28 software problems 35 solving problems 31 U USB 2.
Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.
