Dell??? Dimension??? 5100

microphone connector

hard-drive activity light

power button/ power activity light

USB 2.0 connectors (2)

Model DCSM

w w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

If you purchased a Dell??? n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft?? Windows?? operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. ?? 2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault, PowerApp, DellNet, and PowerConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Model DCSM

Contents

1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Contents 3

2 Solving Problems

4 Contents

3 Troubleshooting Tools

4 Removing and Installing Parts

Contents 5

6 Contents

5 Appendix

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Contents 7

Finding Information

NOTE: Additional documentation may be included with your computer, depending on your country.

???Safety instructions

???Regulatory information

???Ergonomics information

???End User License Agreement

10 Finding Information

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up a Printer

NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer.

See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to:

???Obtain and install updated drivers

???Connect the printer to the computer

???Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge

???Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance

Printer Cable

Your printer connects to your computer with a USB cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the computer box.

Connecting a Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.

1Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so.

2Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer.

3Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.

USB connector on computer

USB printer cable

USB connector on printer

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.

To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP), such as AOL or MSN. Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options:

???Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections.

???DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same line simultaneously.

???Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line.

NOTE: If you use a dial-up connection, you need an add-in PCI modem expansion card.

12 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an AOL or MSN connection:

1Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

2Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Microsoft?? Windows?? desktop.

3Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP:

1Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

2Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer. The New Connection Wizard appears.

3Click Connect to the Internet.

4In the next window, click the appropriate option:

???If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose from a list of Internet service providers (ISPs).

???If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click Set up my connection manually.

???If you have a CD, click Use the CD I got from an ISP.

5Click Next.

If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP.

6Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then click Next.

7Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 29. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

Playing CDs and 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 when you are playing CDs or DVDs.

1Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

2Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.

3 Press the eject button or gently push in the tray.

To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer.

NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs.

A CD player includes the following basic buttons:

Play

Move backward within the current track

Pause

Move forward within the current track

Stop

Go to the previous track

Eject

Go to the next track

14 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:

Stop

Restart the current chapter

Play

Fast forward

Pause

Fast reverse

Advance a single frame while in pause mode

Go to the next title or chapter

Continuously play the current title or chapter

Go to the previous title or chapter

Eject

For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or DVD player (if available).

Adjusting the Volume

NOTE: When the speakers are muted, you do not hear the CD or DVD playing.

1Click the Start button, point to All Programs??? Accessories??? Entertainment, and then click Volume Control.

2In the Volume Control window, click and drag the bar in the Volume Control column and slide it up or down to increase or decrease the volume.

For more information on volume control options, click Help in the Volume Control window.

Adjusting the Picture

If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties:

1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes.

3Under Pick a task..., click Change the screen resolution.

4In the Display Properties window, click and drag the bar in Screen resolution to change the setting to

800 by 600 pixels.

5Click the drop-down menu under Color quality, and then click Medium (16 bit).

6Click OK.

Copying CDs and DVDs

NOTE: Please observe all copyright laws when creating CDs or DVDs.

This section applies only to computers that have a CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, or CD-RW/DVD (combo) drive.

NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country.

The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic DigitalMedia for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Sonic DigitalMedia and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.

How to Copy a CD or DVD

NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at www.sonic.com.

The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell??? computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic DigitalMedia.

1Click the Start button, point to All Programs??? Sonic??? DigitalMedia Projects and then click Copy.

2Under the Copy tab click Disc Copy.

3To copy the CD or DVD:

???If you have one CD or DVD drive, ensure that the settings are correct and click the Disc Copy button. The computer will read your source CD or DVD and copy the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.

When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive and click OK.

???If you have two CD or DVD drives, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or DVD and click the Disc Copy button. The computer copies the data from the source CD or DVD to the blank CD or DVD.

Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created will automatically eject.

16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed CD-RW) while DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD recording media.

Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs.

Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+/-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later.

Table 1: CD-Writable Drives

Helpful Tips

???Use Microsoft?? Windows?? Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Sonic DigitalMedia and open a DigitalMedia project.

???Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos.

???You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic DigitalMedia.

???Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.

???Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may not support all available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by your DVD player refer to the documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer.

???Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1-2 MB of the blank space to finalize the recording.

???Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank CD-RWs to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.

???See the Sonic website at www.sonic.com for additional information.

Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)

Use the Media Card Reader to transfer data directly to your computer.

The Media Card Reader supports the following memory types:

???xD-Picture Card

???SmartMedia (SMC)

???CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II)

???MicroDrive Card

???SecureDigital Card (SD)

???MultiMediaCard (MMC)

???Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)

For information on installing a Media Card Reader, see "Installing a Media Card Reader" on page 91.

18 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro)

SecureDigital Card (SD)/

MultiMediaCard (MMC)

To use the Media Card Reader:

1Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion.

2Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector.

If you encounter resistance, do not force the media or card. Check the card orientation and try again.

Connecting Two Monitors

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: If you are connecting two monitors that have VGA connectors, you must have the optional DVI adapter. If you are connecting two flat-panel monitors, at least one of them must have a VGA connector. If you are connecting a TV, you may connect only one monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the TV.

If you purchased a graphics card that supports dual monitors, follow these instructions to connect and enable your monitors. The instructions tell you how to connect either two monitors (each with a VGA connector), one monitor with a VGA connector and one monitor with a DVI connector, or a TV.

Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

NOTE: If your computer has integrated video, do not connect either monitor to the integrated video connector.

If the integrated video connector is covered by a cap, do not remove the cap to connect the monitor or the monitor will not function.

2Connect one of the monitors to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.

3Connect the other monitor to the optional DVI adapter and connect the DVI adapter to the DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.

optional DVI adapter

DVI (white) connector*

TV-OUT connector*

VGA (blue) connector *May not be present on your computer.

Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.

3Connect the DVI connector on the other monitor to the DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer.

20 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Connecting a TV

NOTE: You must purchase an S-video cable, available at most consumer electronics stores, to connect a TV to your computer. It is not included with your computer.

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Connect one end of the S-video cable to the optional TV-OUT connector on the back of the computer.

3Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV.

4Connect the VGA or DVI monitor.

Changing the Display Settings

1After you connect the monitor(s) or TV, turn on the computer.

The Microsoft?? Windows?? desktop displays on the primary monitor.

2Enable clone mode or extended desktop mode in the display settings.

???In clone mode, both monitors display the same image.

???In extended desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

For information on changing the display settings for your graphics card, see the user???s guide in the Help and Support Center (click the Start button, click Help and Support, click User and system guides, click Device guides, and then click the guide for your graphics card).

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

NOTICE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the computer. Do not plug the network cable into the modem connector on the computer. Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack.

1Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer. Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.

2Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device.

The Microsoft?? Windows?? XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or

small office.

1Click the Start button, point to All Programs??? Accessories??? Communications, and then click Network Setup Wizard.

2On the welcome screen, click Next.

3Click Checklist for creating a network.

NOTE: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack.

4Complete the checklist and required preparations.

5Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions on the screen.

Power Management

The Microsoft?? Windows?? XP power management features can reduce the amount of electricity your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can reduce power to just the monitor or the hard drive, or you can use standby mode or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire computer.

When the computer exits from a power conservation mode, the Windows desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode.

NOTE: Windows XP Professional includes security and networking features not available in Windows XP Home Edition. When a Windows XP Professional computer is connected to a network, different options related to security and networking appear in certain windows.

22 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Standby Mode

Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out. When the computer exits from standby mode, it returns to the operating state it was in before it entered standby mode.

To set standby mode to automatically activate after a defined period of inactivity:

1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.

3Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.

To immediately activate standby mode without a period of inactivity, click the Start button, click

Turn Off Computer, and then click Stand by.

To exit from standby mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

NOTICE: If your computer loses power while in standby mode, it may lose data.

Hibernate Mode

Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits from hibernate mode, the desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered hibernate mode.

To activate hibernate mode:

1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.

3Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.

4Define your hibernate settings on the Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab, and Hibernate tab.

To exit from hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit from hibernate mode. Pressing a key on the keyboard or moving the mouse does not bring the computer out of hibernation, because the keyboard and the mouse do not function when the computer is in hibernate mode.

Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you. If the computer???s hard drive becomes corrupted, Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.

Power Options Properties

Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the

Power Options Properties window. To access the Power Options Properties window:

1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.

3Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.

4Define your power settings on the Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab, and Hibernate tab.

Power Schemes Tab

Each standard power setting is called a scheme. If you want to select one of the standard Windows schemes installed on your computer, choose a scheme from the Power schemes drop-down menu.

The settings for each scheme appear in the fields below the scheme name. Each scheme has different settings for starting standby mode or hibernate mode, turning off the monitor, and turning off the hard drive.

The Power schemes drop-down menu displays the following schemes:

???Always On (default) ??? If you want to use your computer with no power conservation.

???Home/Office Desk ??? If you use your computer as a home or office computer and you require minimal power conservation.

???Presentation ??? If you want your computer to run without interruption (using no power conservation).

???Minimal Power Management ??? If you want your computer to run with minimal power conservation.

???Max Battery ??? If your computer is a portable computer and you run your computer from batteries for extended periods of time.

If you want to change the default settings for a scheme, click the drop-down menu in the Turn off monitor,

Turn off hard disks, System stand by, or System hibernates field, and then select a time-out from the displayed list. Changing the time-out for a scheme field permanently changes the default settings for that scheme, unless you click Save As and enter a new name for the changed scheme.

NOTICE: If you set the hard drive (hard disk) to time-out before the monitor does, your computer may appear to be locked up. To recover, press any key on the keyboard or click the mouse. To avoid this problem, always set the monitor to time-out before the hard drive.

Advanced Tab

The Advanced tab allows you to:

???Set the computer to prompt you for your Windows password before the computer exits from standby mode or hibernate mode.

???Program the power button to activate standby mode, activate hibernate mode, or turn off the computer.

To program these functions, click an option from the corresponding drop-down menu and click OK.

Hibernate Tab

The Hibernate tab allows you to enable hibernate mode. If you want to use the hibernate settings you defined on the Power Schemes tab, click the Enable hibernate support check box on the Hibernate tab.

For more information on power management options:

1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

2In the Help and Support window, click Performance and maintenance.

3In the Performance and maintenance window, click Conserving power on your computer.

24 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Hyper-Threading

Hyper-Threading is an Intel?? technology that can enhance overall computer performance by allowing one physical processor to function as two logical processors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously. It is recommended that you use the Microsoft?? Windows?? XP Service Pack 1 (SP1) or later operating system because Windows XP is optimized to take advantage of

Hyper-Threading technology. While many programs can benefit from Hyper-Threading, some programs have not been optimized for Hyper-Threading and may require an update from the software manufacturer. Contact the software manufacturer for updates and information about using Hyper-Threading with your software.

To determine if your computer is using Hyper-Threading technology:

1Click the Start button, right-click My Computer, and then click Properties.

2Click Hardware and click Device Manager.

3In the Device Manager window, click the plus (+) sign next to Processors. If Hyper-Threading is enabled, the processor is listed twice.

You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. For more information on accessing system setup, see page 103. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the Knowledge Base on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

Solving Problems

Troubleshooting Tips

Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer:

???If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.

???If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.

???If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).

???If an error message occurs in a program, see the program???s documentation.

Battery Problems

CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

REPLACE THE BATTERY ??? If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see page 97).

If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 116).

Drive Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT?? WINDOWS?? RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE ??? Click the Start button and click

My Computer. If the floppy, CD, or DVD drive, is not listed, 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 ???

???Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original one is defective.

???Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.

CLEAN THE DRIVE OR DISK ??? See page 113.

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER ??? See page 49.

RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS ??? See page 46.

CD and DVD drive problems

NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.

NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL ???

???Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.

???Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.

???Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.

CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER ??? See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 39.

Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive

CLOSE OTHER PROGRAMS ??? The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the CD/DVD-RW.

TURN OFF STANDBY MODE IN WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING TO A CD/DVD-RW DISC ??? Search for the keyword standby in Windows Help.

28 Solving Problems

Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK ???

1 Click the Start button and click My Computer. 2 Right-click Local Disk C:.

3 Click Properties.

4 Click the Tools tab.

5Under Error-checking, click Check Now.

6Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors.

7Click 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. The modem does not operate while it is connected to a digital telephone network.

CHECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK?? EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS ??? If you cannot open your e-mail attachments:

1 In Outlook Express, click Tools, click Options, and then click Security. 2 Click Do not allow attachments to remove the checkmark.

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION ???

CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK ???

CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK ???

USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE ???

???Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem. (The jack has either a green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.)

???Ensure that you feel a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.

???Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.

???If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and use the telephone to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.

RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS ??? Click the Start button, point to All Programs, and then click Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems.

(Modem Helper is not available on all computers.)

VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS ???

1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2 Click Printers and Other Hardware.

3 Click Phone and Modem Options.

4 Click the Modems tab.

5 Click the COM port for your modem.

6 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.

If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.

ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET ??? Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service provider.

Error Messages

If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.

A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? ??? < > | ??? Do not use

these characters in filenames.

A.DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND ??? The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program:

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Add or Remove Programs.

2 Select the program you want to remove.

3 Click the Change or Remove Program icon.

4 See the program documentation for installation instructions.

drive letter :\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY ??? The drive cannot read the disk. Insert a disk into the drive and try again.

INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA ??? Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.

NON-SYSTEM DISK ERROR ??? Remove the floppy disk from the drive and restart your computer.

30 Solving Problems

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. CLOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN ??? Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. In some cases, you might have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND ??? Contact Dell (see page 116).

Media Card Reader Problems

NO DRIVE LETTER IS ASSIGNED ???

When Microsoft Windows XP detects the Media Card Reader, the device is automatically assigned a drive letter as the next logical drive after all other physical drives in the system. If the next logical drive after

the physical drives is mapped to a network drive, Windows XP does not automatically assign a drive letter to the Media Card Reader.

To manually assign a drive for the Media Card Reader:

1 Right-click My Computer and select Manage. 2 Select the Disk Management option.

3 Right-click the corresponding drive letter in the right pane that needs to be changed.

4 Select Drive Letter and Paths.

5 From the drop-down list, select the new drive letter assignment for the Media Card Reader. 6 Click OK to confirm your selection.

NOTE: The Media Card Reader appears as a mapped drive only when it is connected. Each of the four Media Card Reader slots are mapped to a drive even if no media is installed. If you attempt to access the Media Card Reader when no media is inserted, you are prompted to insert media.

FLEXBAY DEVICE IS DISABLED ???

There is a FlexBay disable option in the BIOS setup that appears only when the FlexBay device is installed. If the FlexBay device is physically installed, but it is not running, check to see if it is enabled in the

BIOS setup.

Keyboard Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE ???

???Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.

???Shut down the computer (see page 53), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer.

???Check the cable connector for bent or broken pins and for damaged or frayed cables. Straighten bent pins.

???Remove keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.

TEST THE KEYBOARD ??? Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, and try using the keyboard.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER ??? See page 49.

Lockups and Software Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

The computer does not start up

CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS ??? See page 43.

ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET.

The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF ??? If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

32 Solving Problems

A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM ???

1 Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.

2 Click Applications.

3 Click the program that is no longer responding.

4 Click End Task.

A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION ??? If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

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.

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF ??? If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.

Other software problems

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR

TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ???

???Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.

???Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information.

???Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.

???Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.

???If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY

USE A VIRUS-SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE, FLOPPY DISKS, OR CDS

SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER THROUGH THE

START MENU

Memory Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

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 necessary, install additional memory (see page 64).

???Reseat the memory modules (see page 64) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

???Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 46).

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS ???

???Reseat the memory modules (see page 64) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.

???Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see page 64).

???Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 99.

???Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 46).

34 Solving Problems

Mouse Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

CLEAN THE MOUSE ??? See "Mouse" for instructions on cleaning the mouse on page 113.

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE ???

1 Remove mouse extension cables, if used, and connect the mouse directly to the computer. 2 Reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

RESTART THE COMPUTER ???

1 Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the Start menu.

2 Type u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn Off, and then press <Enter>. 3 After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the on the setup diagram for

your computer.

4 Start the computer.

TEST THE MOUSE ??? Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, and try using the mouse.

CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS ???

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.

2 Click Mouse.

3 Try adjusting the settings.

REINSTALL THE MOUSE DRIVER ??? See page 48.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER ??? See page 49.

Network Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR ??? Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE BACK OF THE COMPUTER ??? If the link integrity light is off, that indicates no network communication exists. Replace the network cable. For a description of network lights, see "Controls and Lights" on page 101.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN

CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS ??? Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER ??? See page 49.

Power Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS GREEN AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING ??? See "Diagnostic Lights" on

page 43.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING GREEN ??? The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation.

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF ??? The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.

???Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.

???If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on. Also bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer turns on properly.

???Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

???Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see page 61).

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER ??? A device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.

???Ensure that the 12 volt power connector (12V) is securely connected to the system board (see page 61).

???Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see page 64).

???Remove and then reinstall any cards (see page 66).

???Remove and then reinstall the graphics card, if applicable (see page 71).

36 Solving Problems

IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER ??? The computer is receiving electrical power, but an internal power problem might exist.

???Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location (if applicable).

???Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 61).

ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE ??? Some possible causes of interference are:

???Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables

???Too many devices on a power strip

???Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet

Printer Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer???s manufacturer.

CHECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION ??? See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.

ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS ???

???See the printer documentation for cable connection information.

???Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer (see page 11).

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET ??? Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER IS RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS ???

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware. 2 Click View installed printers or fax printers.

If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.

3 Click Properties and click the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB.

REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER ??? See the printer documentation for instructions.

Scanner Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner???s manufacturer.

CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION ??? See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.

UNLOCK THE SCANNER ??? Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS ???

???See the scanner documentation for cable connection information.

???Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER IS RECOGNIZED BY MICROSOFT WINDOWS ???

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware.

2Click Scanners and Cameras.

If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.

REINSTALL THE SCANNER DRIVER ??? See the scanner documentation for instructions.

38 Solving Problems

Sound and Speaker Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

No sound from speakers

NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been listening to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.

CHECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS ??? Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If you purchased a sound card, ensure that the speakers are connected to the card.

ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON ??? See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to

eliminate distortion.

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.

DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR ??? Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer???s front-panel headphone connector.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET ??? Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE ??? Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.

REINSTALL THE SOUND DRIVER ??? See page 49.

RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER ??? See page 49.

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION ??? Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see page 55).

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.

Video and Monitor Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures.

If the screen is blank

CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION ???

???Ensure that the graphics cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

???If you are using a graphics extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is defective.

???Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective.

???Check the connector for bent or broken pins. (It is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing pins.)

CHECK THE MONITOR POWER LIGHT ??? If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that the monitor is turned on. If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power. If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET ??? Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS ??? See page 43.

40 Solving Problems

If the screen is difficult to read

CHECK THE MONITOR SETTINGS ??? See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.

MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE MONITOR ??? If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the monitor.

MOVE THE MONITOR AWAY FROM EXTERNAL POWER SOURCES ??? Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky." Turn off nearby devices to check for interference.

ROTATE THE MONITOR TO ELIMINATE SUNLIGHT GLARE AND POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE

???

1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Appearance and Themes.

2 Click Display and click the Settings tab.

3 Try different settings for Screen resolution and Color quality.

Troubleshooting Tools

Diagnostic Lights

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4" on the front panel (see page 57). When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. After the computer starts, all four lights display solid green. If the computer malfunctions, the color and sequence of the lights identify the problem.

44 Troubleshooting Tools

Dell Diagnostics

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" on page 27 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell??? computers.

1Turn on (or restart) your computer.

2When the DELL??? logo appears, press <F12> immediately.

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 (see page 53) and try again.

3When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press <Enter>.

4When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

1After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want.

2If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.

If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see page 116).

NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell, technical support will ask for your Service Tag.

46 Troubleshooting Tools

3If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab described in the following table for more information.

4Close the test screen to return to the Main Menu screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the Main Menu screen.

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.

Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed???no further installation or configuration is needed.

Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft?? Windows?? operating system. You may need to install drivers if you:

???Upgrade your operating system

???Reinstall your operating system

???Connect or install a new device

Identifying Drivers

If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver.

Windows XP

1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.

3Click System.

4In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.

5Click Device Manager.

6Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow circle with a [!]) on the device icon.

If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to reinstall the driver or install a new driver.

Reinstalling Drivers

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com provides approved drivers for Dell??? computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.

1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance.

3Click System.

4In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab.

5Click Device Manager.

6Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties.

7Click the Drivers tab.

8Click 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.

48 Troubleshooting Tools

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

1After copying the required driver files to your hard drive, click the Start button and right-click

My Computer.

2Click Properties.

3Click the Hardware tab and click Device Manager.

4Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver.

5Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver.

6Click the Driver tab and click Update Driver.

7Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced) and click Next.

8Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files.

9When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.

10Click Finish and restart your computer.

Resolving 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 resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:

1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

2Type hardware troubleshooter in the Search field and click the arrow to start the search.

3Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.

4In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer, and click Next.

Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:

???Microsoft Windows XP System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files.

???Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications installed after you received the computer.

Using Microsoft?? Windows?? XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow 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. See the Windows Help and Support Center for information on using System Restore.

NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them.

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not work if you set your Dell??? computer to the Windows Classic view.

Creating a Restore Point

1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.

2Click System Restore.

3Follow the instructions on the screen.

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 48) to resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.

NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

1Click the Start button, point to All Programs??? Accessories??? System Tools, and then click System Restore.

2Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected and click Next.

3Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.

The Select a Restore Point screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.

4Select 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.

5Click Next.

The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the computer restarts.

6After the computer restarts, click OK.

To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can undo the restoration.

50 Troubleshooting Tools

Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

1Click the Start button, point to All Programs??? Accessories??? System Tools, and then click System Restore.

2Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.

Enabling System Restore

If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:

1Click the Start button and click Control Panel.

2Click Performance and Maintenance.

3Click System.

4Click the System Restore tab.

5Ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.

Using Dell??? PC Restore by Symantec

NOTE: Dell PC Restore is not available in all countries.

Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system. PC Restore 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. If possible, back up all data before using PC Restore.

NOTICE: Using PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using PC Restore.

To use PC Restore:

1Turn on the computer and watch the keyboard status lights.

2Immediately upon seeing the lights flash, press <Ctrl><F11>.

If you do not press <Ctrl><F11> in time, let the computer finish restarting, and then restart the computer again.

NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore, click Reboot in the following step.

3On the next screen that appears, click Restore.

4On the next screen, click Confirm.

The restore process takes approximately 6???10 minutes to complete.

5 When prompted, click Finish to reboot the computer.

NOTE: Do not manually shut down the computer. Click Finish and let the computer completely reboot.

6When prompted, click Yes.

The computer restarts. Because the computer is restored to its original operating state, the screens that appear, such as the End User License Agreement, are the same ones that appeared the first time the computer was turned on.

7Click Next.

The System Restore screen appears and the computer restarts.

8After the computer restarts, click OK.

Removing Dell PC Restore

NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from your computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your computer???s operating system.

Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your computer, even to gain additional hard-drive space. If you remove PC Restore from the hard drive, you cannot ever recall it, and you will never be able to use PC Restore to return your computer???s operating system to its original state.

To remove PC Restore:

1Log on to the computer as a local administrator.

2In Windows Explorer, go to c:\dell\utilities\DSR.

3Double-click the filename DSRIRRemv2.exe.

NOTE: If you do not log on as a local administrator, a message appears stating that you must log on as administrator. Click Quit, and then log on as a local administrator.

NOTE: If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer???s hard drive, a message appears stating that the partition was not found. Click Quit; there is no partition to delete.

4Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive.

5Click Yes when a confirmation message appears.

The PC Restore partition is deleted and the newly available disk space is added to the free space allocation on the hard drive.

6Right-click Local Disk (C) in Windows Explorer, click Properties, and verify that the additional disk space is available as indicated by the increased value for Free Space.

7Click Finish to close the PC Restore Removal window.

8Restart the computer.

52 Troubleshooting Tools

Removing and Installing Parts

Before You Begin

This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:

???You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" (see page 53) and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" (see page 54).

???You have read the safety information in your Dell??? Product Information Guide.

???A component can be replaced or???if purchased separately???installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.

Recommended Tools

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

???Small flat-blade screwdriver

???Phillips screwdriver

???Flash BIOS update program floppy disk or CD

Turning Off Your Computer

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off your computer.

1Shut down the operating system:

a Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then click

Turn Off Computer.

bIn the Turn off computer window, click Turn off.

The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.

2Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help ensure your own personal safety.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.

NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.

NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.

1 Turn off your computer (see page 53).

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network device.

2Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.

3Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

4 Remove the computer cover (see page 59).

NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.

54 Removing and Installing Parts

Front View of the Computer

1

2

3

4

NOTICE: Keep the vent area clean and dust-free to ensure that the computer is adequately ventilated. Use only a dry cloth to clean the vent area to avoid water damage to the computer.

56 Removing and Installing Parts

Back View of the Computer

1 2

3

4

It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras.

58 Removing and Installing Parts

Removing the Computer Cover

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the removed cover???at least 30 cm (1 ft) of desk top space.

NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the computer or the surface on which it is resting.

2Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up.

3Pull back the cover latch release located on the top panel.

cover latch release

computer cover

back of computer

bottom hinges

4Locate the three hinge tabs on the bottom edge of the computer.

5Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up, using the bottom hinges as leverage points.

6Release the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside in a secure location.

Inside View of Your Computer

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

power supply

system board

CD or DVD drive

*floppy drive

hard drive

*May not be present on all computers.

60 Removing and Installing Parts

System Board Components

Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board.

Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For additional information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 99.

DDR2 Memory Overview

DDR2 memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology. If the DDR2 memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. See the label on the module to determine the module???s capacity.

NOTE: Always install DDR2 memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.

The recommended memory configurations are:

???A pair of matched memory modules installed in DIMM connectors 1 and 2

or

???A pair of matched memory modules installed in DIMM connectors 1 and 2 and another matched pair installed in DIMM connectors 3 and 4

NOTICE: Do not install ECC or buffered memory modules. Only unbuffered, non-ECC memory is supported.

62 Removing and Installing Parts

???If you install mixed pairs of DDR2 400-MHz (PC2-3200) and DDR2 533-MHz (PC2-4300) memory, the modules function at the slowest speed installed.

???Be sure to install a single memory module in DIMM connector 1, the connector closest to the processor, before you install modules in the other connectors.

Channel A: matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 (white securing clips)

Channel B: matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4 (black securing clips)

NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.

NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in DIMM connectors 1 and 2 or

DIMM connectors 3 and 4.

Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations

Your computer supports a maximum of 4 GB of memory when you use four 1-GB DIMMs. Current operating systems, such as Microsoft?? Windows?? XP, can only use a maximum of 4 GB of address space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is less than 4 GB. Certain components within the computer require address space in the 4-GB range. Any address space reserved for these components cannot be used by computer memory.

Installing Memory

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer???s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer.

3Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

memory connector closest to processor

securing clips (2)

connector

4 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.

notch

memory module

cutouts (2)

crossbar

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector while you apply equal force to each end of the module.

64 Removing and Installing Parts

5Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.

If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the module.

6 Replace the computer cover.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.

7Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

8Right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties.

9Click the General tab.

10To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.

Removing Memory

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer???s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

3Grasp the module and pull up.

If the module is difficult to remove, gently ease the module back and forth to remove it from the connector.

Cards

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer???s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

Your Dell??? computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards:

???Two PCI card slots

???One PCI Express x16 card slot

???One PCI Express x1 card slot

PCI Cards

Your computer supports two PCI cards.

If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a PCI card, see "Removing a PCI Card" on page 70.

If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.

If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, see "Installing a PCI Express Card" on page 71.

66 Removing and Installing Parts

Installing a PCI Card

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

release tab

card retention door

2Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.

3If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 5.

4If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.

If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.

5Prepare the card for installation.

See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.

CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.

6 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.

not fully seated card

68 Removing and Installing Parts

7Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:

???The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.

???The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

alignment guide alignment bar

release tab

card retention door

8 Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the card(s).

NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.

9Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.

See the documentation for the card for information about the card???s cable connections.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.

10Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

11If you installed a sound card:

a Enter system setup (see page 103), select Audio Controller, and then change the setting to Off.

b Connect external audio devices to the sound card???s connectors. Do not connect external audio devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel.

12If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter:

a Enter system setup (see page 103), select Integrated NIC, and then change the setting to Off.

b Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter???s connectors. Do not connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel.

13Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.

Removing a PCI Card

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.

3If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening. If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see page 116).

NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.

4 Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the card(s).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.

5Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

6Remove the card???s driver from the operating system.

7If you removed a sound card:

a Enter system setup (see page 103), select Audio Controller, and then change the setting to On. b Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer.

8If you removed an add-in network connector:

a Enter system setup (see page 103), select Integrated NIC, and then change the setting to On. b Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the computer.

70 Removing and Installing Parts

PCI Express Cards

Your computer supports one PCI Express x16 card and one PCI Express x1 card.

If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing a PCI Express Card" on page 75.

If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.

If you are installing or replacing a PCI card, see "Installing a PCI Card" on page 67.

Installing a PCI Express Card

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

card retention door

card retention mechanism

release tabs (2)

2Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position. (See page 67 for an illustration of the card retention door.)

3If your computer includes a card retention mechanism, to secure the x16 card in place from the top:

a Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.

b Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.

4If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 5.

5If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.

If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. If your card includes a retention mechanism, remove the top of the retention mechanism by pressing the tab and pulling up on the top. Gently pull the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out of its connector.

PCI Express x16 card slot

6Prepare the card for installation.

See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.

CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.

7If you are installing the card into the x16 card connector, position the card so the securing slot is aligned with the securing tab, and gently pull the securing tab.

NOTICE: Ensure that you release the securing tab to unseat the card. If the card is not removed correctly, the system board may be damaged.

72 Removing and Installing Parts

8 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.

not fully seated card

9If you replaced a card that was already installed in the computer and you removed the retention mechanism, you may reinstall the retention mechanism.

10Before replacing the card retention mechanism, ensure that:

???The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.

???The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

11Snap the card retention mechanism into place, securing the x16 PCI card.

card retention door

card retention mechanism

release tabs (2)

NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.

12Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

13If you installed a sound card:

a Enter system setup (see page 103), select Audio Controller, and then change the setting to Off.

b Connect external audio devices to the sound card???s connectors. Do not connect external audio devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel.

14If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter:

a Enter system setup (see page 103), select Integrated NIC, and then change the setting to Off.

b Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter???s connectors. Do not connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel.

15Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.

74 Removing and Installing Parts

Removing a PCI Express Card

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position. (See page 67 for an illustration of the card retention door.)

3If your computer includes a card retention mechanism, to secure the x16 card in place from the top:

a Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.

b Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.

4If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening. If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see page 116).

NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.

5Reseat the card retention mechanism in the tabs and pivot downward to snap it into place.

6Close the card retention door to snap it into place, securing the card(s).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.

7Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.

8Remove the card???s driver from the operating system.

9If you removed a sound card:

a Enter system setup (see page 103), select Audio Controller, and then change the setting to On. b Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer.

10If you removed an add-in network connector:

a Enter system setup (see page 103), select Integrated NIC, and then change the setting to On. b Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the computer.

11Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.

Drive Panel

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

Removing the Drive Panel

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

sliding plate lever

sliding plate

drive panel

2Grasping the lever on the sliding plate, pull the sliding plate to the right until it snaps into the open position.

NOTE: This sliding plate secures and releases the drive panel and helps to secure the drives.

3By pushing from the inside and pivoting the drive panel to the left, you can release the drive panel from its side hinges.

4Set the drive panel aside in a secure location.

76 Removing and Installing Parts

Removing the Drive-Panel Insert

drive panel

insert tab

drive panel

drive panel insert

1Turn the drive panel sideways and find the tip of the drive-panel insert tab that latches over a tab on the right side of the drive panel.

2Pull the inner tip of the drive-panel insert tab away from the drive panel.

3Pivot the drive-panel insert out and away from the drive panel.

4Set the drive-panel insert aside in a secure location.

Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert

drive panel

drive panel insert tab

center drive

1Slide the tab on the left side of the drive-panel insert under the center drive panel tab.

2Rotate the drive panel insert into place and snap the drive-panel insert tab over the corresponding tab on the drive panel.

Replacing the Drive Panel.

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

sliding plate lever

sliding plate

drive panel

2Align the drive panel tabs with the side-door hinges.

3Rotate the drive panel toward the computer until it snaps into place on the front panel.

78 Removing and Installing Parts

Drives

Your computer supports a combination of these devices:

???Up to two serial ATA hard drives

???One FlexBay drive (may contain an optional floppy drive or an optional Media Card Reader)

???Up to two CD or DVD drives

CD/DVD drive(s)

FlexBay for optional floppy drive or Media Card Reader

hard drive(s)

Connect CD/DVD drives to the connector labeled "IDE1" on the system board. Serial ATA hard drives should be connected to the connectors labeled "SATA0" or "SATA2" on the system board.

IDE Drive Addressing

When you connect two IDE devices to a single IDE interface cable and configure them for the cable select setting, the device attached to the last connector on the interface cable is the master or boot device (drive 0), and the device attached to the middle connector on the interface cable is the slave device (drive 1). See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information on configuring devices for the cable select setting.

Connecting Drive Cables

When you install a drive, you connect two cables???a DC power cable and a data cable???to the back of the drive and to the system board.

Drive Interface Connectors

Most interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector. Keyed connectors ensure that the pin- 1 wire in the cable (indicated by the colored stripe along one edge of the IDE cable???serial ATA cables do not use a colored stripe) goes to the pin-1 end of the connector. The pin-1 end of a connector on a board or a card is usually indicated by a silk-screened ???1??? printed directly on the board or card.

NOTICE: When you connect an IDE interface cable, do not place the colored stripe away from pin 1 of the connector. Reversing the cable prevents the drive from operating and could damage the controller, the drive, or both.

Serial ATA Connector

interface cable

interface connector

Power Cable Connector

To connect a drive using the power cable, locate the power input connector on the system board.

power input connector

power cable

80 Removing and Installing Parts

Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables

When removing an IDE drive data cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector detaches.

When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA data cable, disconnect the cable using the pull-tab.

Like IDE connectors, the serial ATA interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector.

Hard Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.

NOTICE: If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data you want to keep, back up your files before you begin this procedure.

Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

Removing a Hard Drive

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Disconnect the power and data cables from the drive.

NOTICE: Use the pull-tab to remove the data cable from your hard drive or from the system board.

serial ATA data cable

power cable

3 Press in on the blue tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out of the computer.

tabs (2)

hard drive

82 Removing and Installing Parts

Installing a Hard Drive

1Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation.

2Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

NOTE: If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard drive bracket attached, remove the bracket from the old drive by unsnapping it from the drive. Snap the bracket onto the new drive.

drive

hard drive bracket

3Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.

4Connect the power and hard-drive cables to the drive.

serial ATA data cable

power cable

5Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.

6Replace the computer cover (page 98).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer.

7Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.

Adding a Second Hard Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.

1Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

2Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

3Press in on the blue release tabs on each side of the hard drive bracket and slide it up and out of the computer.

4Snap the bracket to the hard drive.

5Gently slide the new drive (second hard drive) into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.

release tabs (2)

second hard drive in lower bay

hard drive bay

primary hard drive in upper bay

6Connect a power cable to the drive.

7Connect the data cable to the drive and to the system board (see page 61).

84 Removing and Installing Parts

Floppy Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

NOTE: If you are adding a floppy drive, see "Installing a Floppy Drive" on page 87.

Removing a Floppy Drive

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Remove the drive panel (see page 76).

power cable

data cable

3 Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive.

NOTE: If you are installing a PCI Express x16 card, this card may cover the floppy-drive connectors. Remove this card before connecting the floppy-drive cables.

4Slide the drive latch release toward the bottom of the computer and, without releasing the drive latch release, slide the floppy drive out through the front of the computer.

drive latch release

sliding plate

floppy drive

86 Removing and Installing Parts

Installing a Floppy Drive

NOTE: In the event the replacement or new floppy drive does not have the shoulder screws, use the screws located within the drive panel insert.

drive

screws (4)

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Remove the drive panel (see page 76).

3Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.

NOTE: If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the drive panel insert where you want the drive to be installed, insert the shoulder screws located in the back of the drive panel insert into the drive, and then slide the drive back into place.

4 Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive.

5Connect the other end of the data cable to the connector labeled "DSKT2" on the system board (see page 61) and route the cable through the clip on the shroud.

power cable

data cable

6If you are installing a new floppy drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the drive-panel inserts (see page 85).

7Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.

8Replace the drive panel (see page 78).

9Replace the computer cover (see page 98).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network device and then plug it in to the computer.

10Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.

11Enter system setup (see page 103) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive option.

12Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 46).

88 Removing and Installing Parts

Media Card Reader

For information on using the Media Card Reader, see "Using a Media Card Reader (Optional)" on page 18.

Removing a Media Card Reader

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer???s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer.

3Remove the computer cover (page 59).

4Remove the drive panel (see page 76).

cable

*Media Card Reader

*Not present on all computers.

5Disconnect the FlexBay USB cable on the back of the Media Card Reader from the Media Card Reader connector on the system board (see page 61) and route the cable through the cable routing clip.

drive latch release

sliding plate

Media Card Reader

6Slide the drive latch release toward the bottom of the computer and, without releasing the drive latch release, slide the Media Card Reader out through the front of the computer.

7Replace the drive panel (see page 78).

8Replace the computer cover (see page 98).

90 Removing and Installing Parts

Installing a Media Card Reader

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer???s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

Media Card

Reader

screws (4)

2Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer.

3Remove the computer cover (see page 59).

4Remove the drive panel (see page 76).

5Remove the Media Card Reader and bracket from its packaging and ensure that all of the screws are included.

6Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed. Ensure that the Media Card Reader is installed before the FlexBay cable is connected.

7Connect the FlexBay USB cable to the back of the Media Card Reader and to the Media Card Reader connector on the system board (see page 61).

FlexBay USB cable

Media Card Reader

8Insert the Media Card Reader and slide it into place until it is fully seated.

9Route the FlexBay USB cable through the cable routing clip.

10Replace the computer cover (see page 98).

92 Removing and Installing Parts

CD/DVD Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the

Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

Removing a CD/DVD Drive

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Remove the computer cover (see page 59).

3Remove the drive panel (see page 76).

4Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the drive.

power cable

data cable

5Slide the drive latch release toward the bottom of the computer and, without releasing the drive latch release, slide the CD/DVD drive out through the front of the computer.

drive latch release

sliding plate

CD/DVD drive

94 Removing and Installing Parts

Installing a CD/DVD Drive

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2If you are installing a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the drive-panel inserts (see page 77).

3Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.

NOTE: If you are installing a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the drive panel inserts and slide the drive into place. Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.

CD/DVD drive

screws (4)

4 Connect the power and data cables to the drive.

power cable

data cable

5Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.

6Replace the computer cover (see page 98).

7Replace the drive panel (see page 78).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network device and then plug it in to the computer.

8Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.

9Enter system setup (see page 103) and select the appropriate Drive option.

10Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 46).

96 Removing and Installing Parts

Battery

Replacing the Battery

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the

Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer???s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.

A coin-cell battery maintains computer configuration, date, and time information. The battery can last several years.

If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, replace the battery.

CAUTION: A new battery can explode if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer???s instructions.

To replace the battery:

1Record all the screens in system setup (see page 103) so that you can restore the correct settings in step 8.

2Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

3Locate the battery socket (see page 61).

NOTICE: If you pry the battery out of its socket with a blunt object, be careful not to touch the system board with the object. Ensure that the object is inserted between the battery and the socket before you attempt to pry out the battery. Otherwise, you may damage the system board by prying off the socket or by breaking circuit traces on the system board.

4Remove the battery by carefully prying it out of its socket with your fingers or with a blunt, nonconducting object such as a plastic screwdriver.

5Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up, and snap the battery into place.

battery (positive side)

battery release lever

6 Replace the computer cover (see page 98).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.

7Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

8Enter system setup (see page 103) and restore the settings you recorded in step 1.

9Properly dispose of the old battery. See the Product Information Guide for battery disposal information.

Replacing the Computer Cover

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the

Product Information Guide.

1Ensure that all cables are connected, and fold cables out of the way.

2Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer.

3Align the bottom of the cover with the tabs located along the bottom edge of the computer.

4Using the tabs as leverage, rotate the cover downward and press down to close it.

computer cover

back of computer

bottom hinges

5 Ensure that the cover is seated correctly before moving it to the upright position.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.

6 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

98 Removing and Installing Parts

Appendix

Specifications

Processor

Appendix 99

Video

100 Appendix

Connectors

External connectors:

Activity light (on integrated network adapter) yellow blinking light

Appendix 101

Power

DC power supply:

102 Appendix

System Setup

Overview

Use system setup as follows:

???To change the system configuration information after you add, change, or remove any hardware in your computer

???To set or change a user-selectable option such as the user password

???To read the current amount of memory or set the type of hard drive installed

Before you use system setup, it is recommended that you write down the system setup screen information for future reference.

NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings for this program. Certain changes can make your computer work incorrectly.

Entering System Setup

1Turn on (or restart) your computer.

2When the blue DELL??? logo is displayed, you must watch for the F2 prompt to appear.

3Once this F2 prompt appears, press <F2> immediately.

NOTE: The F2 prompt indicates that the keyboard has initialized. This prompt can appear very quickly, so you must watch for it to display, and then press <F2>. If you press <F2> before you are prompted, this keystroke will be lost.

4If 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 (see page 53) and try again.

Appendix 103

System Setup Screens

The system setup screen displays current or changeable configuration information for your computer.

104 Appendix

System Setup Options

NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not appear, or may not appear exactly as listed.

System

Appendix 105

Drives

Onboard Devices

Integrated Audio Enables or disables the onboard audio controller.

Controller

Front USB Ports Enables or disables the front USB ports.

(On default)

USB for Flexbay On enables internal USB for FlexBay.

106 Appendix

Video

Performance

Appendix 107

Power Management

108 Appendix

POST Behavior

Boot Sequence

This feature allows you to change the boot sequence for devices.

Option Settings

???Diskette Drive ??? The computer attempts to boot from the floppy drive. If the floppy disk in the drive is not bootable, if no floppy disk is in the drive, or if there is no floppy drive installed in the computer, the computer generates an error message.

???Hard Drive ??? The computer attempts to boot from the primary hard drive. If no operating system is on the drive, the computer generates an error message.

???CD Drive ??? The computer attempts to boot from the CD drive. If no CD is in the drive, or if the CD has no operating system, the computer generates an error message.

???USB Flash Device ??? Insert the memory device into a USB port and restart the computer. When F12 = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press <F12>. The BIOS detects the device and adds the USB flash option to the boot menu.

NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To make sure that your device is bootable, check the device documentation.

Appendix 109

Changing Boot Sequence for the Current Boot

You can use this feature, for example, to restart your computer to a USB device such as a floppy drive, memory key, or CD-RW drive.

NOTE: If you are booting to a USB floppy drive, you must first set the floppy drive to OFF in system setup (see page 103).

1If you are booting to a USB device, connect the USB device to a USB connector (see page 101).

2Turn on (or restart) your computer.

3 When F2 = Setup, F12 = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press <F12>.

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 (see page 53) and try again.

The Boot Device Menu appears, listing all available boot devices. Each device has a number next to it.

4At the bottom of the menu, enter the number of the device that is to be used for the current boot only. For example, if you are booting to a USB memory key, highlight USB Flash Device and press <Enter>.

NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To make sure your device is bootable, check the device documentation.

Changing Boot Sequence for Future Boots

1Enter system setup (see page 103).

2Use the arrow keys to highlight the Boot Sequence menu option and press <Enter> to access the menu.

NOTE: Write down your current boot sequence in case you want to restore it.

3Press the up- and down-arrow keys to move through the list of devices.

4Press the spacebar to enable or disable a device (enabled devices have a checkmark).

5Press plus (+) or minus (???) to move a selected device up or down the list.

110 Appendix

Clearing Forgotten Passwords

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the

Product Information Guide.

1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Locate the 3-pin password jumper (PSWD) on the system board (see page 61), and attach the jumper plug to pins 2 and 3 to clear the password.

NOTE: When you receive your computer, the jumper plug is attached to pins 1 and 2.

3Close the computer cover (see page 98).

4Connect your computer and monitor to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

5After the Microsoft?? Windows?? desktop appears on your computer, shut down the computer (see page 53).

6Turn off the monitor and disconnect it from the electrical outlet.

Appendix 111

7Disconnect the computer power cable from the electrical outlet, and press the power button to ground the system board.

8Open the computer cover (see page 59).

9Locate the 3-pin password jumper (PSWD) on the system board (see page 61) and attach the jumper to pins 1 and 2 to reenable the password feature.

10Close the computer cover (see page 98).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.

11 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

Clearing CMOS Settings

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the

Product Information Guide.

1Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 53.

2Reset the current CMOS settings:

a Locate the 3-pin CMOS jumper (RTCRST) on the system board (see page 61). b Remove the jumper plug from pins 2 and 3.

c Place the jumper plug on pins 1 and 2 and wait approximately five seconds. d Replace the jumper plug on pins 2 and 3.

3Close the computer cover (see page 98).

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer.

4 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.

112 Appendix

Cleaning Your Computer

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the

Product Information Guide.

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor

CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.

???Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust from the slots and holes on your computer and from between the keys on the keyboard.

NOTICE: Do not wipe the display screen with any soap or alcohol solution. Doing so may damage the antiglare coating.

???To clean your monitor screen, lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth with water. If possible, use a special screen-cleaning tissue or solution suitable for the monitor???s antistatic coating.

???Wipe the keyboard, computer, and plastic part of the monitor with a soft cleaning cloth moistened with a solution of three parts water and one part dishwashing detergent.

Do not soak the cloth or let water drip inside your computer or keyboard.

Mouse

If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse. To clean a non-optical mouse:

1Turn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counterclockwise, and then remove the ball.

2Wipe the ball with a clean, lint-free cloth.

3Blow carefully into the ball cage to dislodge dust and lint.

4If the rollers inside the ball cage are dirty, clean the rollers with a cotton swab moistened lightly with isopropyl alcohol.

5Recenter the rollers in their channels if they are misaligned. Ensure that fluff from the swab is not left on the rollers.

6Replace the ball and retainer ring, and turn the retainer ring clockwise until it clicks into place.

Floppy Drive

NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign the heads, which prevents the drive from operating.

Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain pretreated floppy disks to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation.

Appendix 113

CDs and DVDs

NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions that come with the compressed air. Never touch the lens in the drive.

If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try cleaning the discs.

1 Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.

NOTICE: To prevent damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.

2With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disc.

For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also purchase commercial products that clean discs and provide some protection from dust, fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are safe to use on DVDs.

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

Technician-assisted technical support requires the cooperation and participation of the customer in the troubleshooting process and provides for restoration of the operating system, software programs, and hardware drivers to the original default configuration as shipped from Dell, as well as the verification of appropriate functionality of the computer and all Dell-installed hardware. In addition to this technician-assisted technical support, online technical support is available at support.dell.com. Additional technical support options may be available for purchase.

Dell provides limited technical support for the computer and any "Dell-installed" software and peripherals1. Support for third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer, including those purchased and/or installed through Dell Software and Peripherals, Readyware, and Custom Factory Integration2.

1Repair services are provided pursuant to the terms and conditions of your limited warranty and any optional support service contract purchased with the computer.

2All Dell-standard components included in a Custom Factory Integration (CFI) project are covered by the standard Dell limited warranty for your computer. However, Dell also extends a parts replacement program to cover all nonstandard, third-party hardware components integrated through CFI for the duration of the computer???s service contract.

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals

Dell-installed software includes the operating system and some of the software programs that are installed on the computer during the manufacturing process (Microsoft?? Office, Norton Antivirus, and so on).

Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dell-branded module bay or PC Card accessories. In addition, any Dell-branded monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers, microphones for telephonic modems, docking stations/port replicators, networking products, and all associated cabling are included.

114 Appendix

Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals

Third-party software and peripherals include any peripheral, accessory, or software program sold by Dell not under the Dell brand (printers, scanners, cameras, games, and so on). Support for all third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer of the product.

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as Class B digital devices. To determine which classification applies to your computer system, examine all FCC registration labels located on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, on card-mounting brackets, and on the cards themselves. If any one of the labels carries a Class A rating, your entire system is considered to be a Class A digital device. If all labels carry an FCC Class B rating as distinguished by either an FCC ID number or the FCC logo, (), your system is considered to be a Class B digital device.

Once you have determined your system???s FCC classification, read the appropriate FCC notice. Note that FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell could void your authority to operate this equipment.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

This device may not cause harmful interference.

This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Class A

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. 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 harmful interference with radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own expense.

Appendix 115

Class B

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. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. 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 communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

???Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

???Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

???Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

???Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.

FCC Identification Information

The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in compliance with FCC regulations:

???Model number: DCSM Company name:

Dell Inc. One Dell Way

Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA 512-338-4400

Contacting Dell

To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:

???www.dell.com

???support.dell.com (technical support)

???premiersupport.dell.com (technical support for educational, government, healthcare, and medium/large business customers, including Premier, Platinum, and Gold customers)

For specific web addresses for your country, find the appropriate country section in the table below.

NOTE: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed.

NOTE: In certain countries, technical support specific to Dell Inspiron??? XPS computers is available at a separate telephone number listed for participating countries. If you do not see a telephone number listed that is specific for Inspiron XPS computers, you may contact Dell through the technical support number listed and your call will be routed appropriately.

116 Appendix

When you need to contact Dell, use the electronic addresses, telephone numbers, and codes provided in the following table. If you need assistance in determining which codes to use, contact a local or an international operator.

Appendix 117

118 Appendix

Appendix 119

120 Appendix

Appendix 121

122 Appendix

Appendix 123

124 Appendix

Appendix 125

126 Appendix

Appendix 127

128 Appendix

Appendix 129

130 Appendix

Appendix 131

132 Appendix

Appendix 133

Index 135

136 Index

Index 137

138 Index