Page 1 Dell™ Dimension™ 8300 Series USB 2.0 connectors (2) headphone connector Service Tag power connector voltage selection switch serial connector keyboard connector center/LFE connector line-out connector microphone connector USB 2.0 connectors (6) w w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m...
Page 2: Abbreviations And Acronyms
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2003–2004 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, PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, PowerVault, DellNet, Axim, and Latitude are trademarks of Dell Inc.;...
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Contents CAUTION: Safety Instructions SAFETY: General SAFETY: When Using Your Computer SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits SAFETY: Battery Disposal Finding Information for Your Computer 1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer Setting Up a Printer Printer Cable Connecting a Parallel Printer...
Page 4 Hyper-Threading Turning Off Your Computer 2 Solving Problems Finding Solutions Finding Help Information Battery Problems Drive Problems Floppy drive problems CD drive problems Problems writing to a CD-RW drive DVD drive problems Hard drive problems E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Error Messages General Problems The computer stops responding...
Page 5 Dell Diagnostics ......When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Starting the Dell Diagnostics Drivers .
Page 6 4 Adding Parts Front and Back View of the Computer Front View ......Back View .
Page 7 ......Clearing Forgotten Passwords Replacing the Battery Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals Contacting Dell .
Page 8 Contents...
Page 9: Caution: Safety Instructions
CAUTION: Safety Instructions Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage. SAFETY: General • Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instructions closely.
Page 10: Safety: When Using Your Computer
Before you open the computer cover, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated. CAUTION: Do not attempt to service the computer yourself, except as explained in your online Dell™ documentation or in instructions otherwise provided to you by Dell. Always follow installation and service instructions closely.
Page 11: Safety: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge
In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate: • 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 disconnecting the cable.
Page 12 Safety Instructions...
Page 13: Finding Information For Your Computer
R e s o u r c e C D Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer when shipped from Dell. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see page 62), run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 58), or access your documentation.
Page 14 • Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online courses • Community Forum — Online discussion with other Dell customers • Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system •...
Page 15 What are you looking for? • How to reinstall my operating system Find It Here O p e r a t i n g S y s t e m C D After you reinstall your operating system using the Operating System Reinstallation CD, use the ResourceCD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.
Page 16 Finding Infor mation for Your Computer...
Page 17: Setting Up And Using Your Computer
S E C T I O N 1 S e t t i n g U p a n d U s i n g Yo u r C o m p u t e r Setting Up a Printer Transferring Information to a New Computer Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to the Internet...
Page 18: Setting Up A Printer
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. •...
Page 19: Connecting A Usb Printer
Attach the parallel printer cable to the parallel connector on the computer and tighten the two screws. Attach the cable to the connector on the printer and snap the two clips into the two notches. screws (2) parallel printer cable Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer.
Page 20: Transferring Information To A New Computer
Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way. Transferring Information to a New Computer ® The Microsoft wizard to move data from the source computer to the new computer. You can move data such as: •...
Page 21 To prepare the new computer for the file transfer: Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories System Tools, and then click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next. On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next.
Page 22: Setting Up A Home And Office Network
Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to a Network Adapter Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a network adapter installed and a network cable connected to it. To connect a network cable: NOTE: Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure.
Page 23: Connecting To The Internet
To set up an AOL or MSN connection: Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Windows Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. ® desktop. Setting Up and Using Your Computer...
Page 24 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: Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer.
Page 25: Copying Cds And Dvds
Copying CDs and DVDs NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs or DVDs. This section applies only to computers that have a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD+R, or DVD/CD-RW combo drive. The following instructions show how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic RecordNow for other purposes, including creating CDs from audio files on your computer and creating MP3 CDs.
Page 26: Using Blank Cd-Rs And Cd-Rws
Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs Your CD-RW drive can write to two different types of recording media—CD-Rs and CD-RWs. 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 without changing your method of recording (see the Sonic documentation for more information).
Page 27: Turning Off Your Computer
You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through the system setup program. For more information on accessing the system setup program, see page 107. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the Knowledge Base on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. Turning Off Your Computer NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft operating system shutdown, as described next, rather than by pressing the power button.
Page 28 Setting Up and Using Yo ur Computer...
Page 29: Solving Problems
S E C T I O N 2 S o l v i n g P r o b l e m s Finding Solutions Finding Help Information Battery Problems Drive Problems E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Error Messages General Problems IEEE 1394 Device Problems Keyboard Problems Mouse Problems...
Page 30: Finding Solutions
Solving Pr oblems See page 44. Press a key or move the mouse. See the Tell Me How help file for information on standby mode. For more information, see page 44. Get technical assistance from Dell. See page 113. See page 37.
Page 31 See page 50. See page 48. See page 46. See page 42. See page 33. See page 47. See page 37. See page 38. See page 35. See page 35. See page 38. See page 35. See page 42. See page 44. Solving Pr oblems...
Page 32: Finding Help Information
E P L A C E T H E B A T T E R Y turning on the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see page 110). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 113). Solving Pr oblems...
Page 33: Drive Problems
Drive Problems Floppy drive problems ® N S U R E T H A T I N D O W S R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E My Computer. If the floppy drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses.
Page 34: Cd Drive Problems
CD drive problems NOTE: High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD. D J U S T T H E corner of your screen. • Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up. •...
Page 35: Dvd Drive Problems
DVD drive problems NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives. E S T T H E D R I V E W I T H A N O T H E R that the original DVD is defective.
Page 36 H E C K T H E T E L E P H O N E J A C K connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone. O N N E C T T H E M O D E M D I R E C T L Y T O T H E T E L E P H O N E W A L L J A C K 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.
Page 37: Error Messages
N S U R E T H A T Y O U A R E C O N N E C T E D T O T H E 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.
Page 38: General Problems
L O S E S O M E P R O G R A M S A N D T R Y A G A I N — Contact Dell (see page 113). H E D E V I C E I S N O T R E A D Y —...
Page 39: A Program Crashes Repeatedly
A program crashes repeatedly NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD. H E C K T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N websites with information that may help you solve the problem.
Page 40: Other Technical Problems
Website" on page 14 for more information about the website. See "Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)" on page 112 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell. — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell Support website or e-mail...
Page 41: Ieee 1394 Device Problems
F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A Dell (see page 113). F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A N Contact the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer.
Page 42: Keyboard Problems
Keyboard Problems E S T A R T T H E C O M P U T E R • If the mouse is functioning, shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 27). After the computer shuts down, press the power button to restart the computer. •...
Page 43 F Y O U C O N N E C T E D T H E M O U S E B E F O R E T U R N I N G O N T H E C O M P U T E R T H E M O U S E C A B L E —...
Page 44: Network Problems
Network Problems H E C K T H E N E T W O R K C A B L E C O N N E C T O R as shown on page 22. H E C K T H E N E T W O R K L I G H T S O N T H E B A C K O F T H E C O M P U T E R that no network communication exists.
Page 45 • Ensure that the front panel cable is securely connected to the system board (see page 81). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 113). F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S A M B E R A N D G R E E N but an internal power problem might exist.
Page 46: Printer Problems
L I M I N A T E I N T E R F E R E N C E computer can cause interference. Other causes of interference are: • Power extension cables • Keyboard and mouse extension cables • Too many devices on a power strip •...
Page 47: Scanner Problems
E R I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y Click the Start button. Click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware.
Page 48: Sound And Speaker Problems
E R I F Y T H A T T H E S C A N N E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y Click the Start button and click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware.
Page 49: No Sound From Headphones
— Your speakers do not work if the CD drive is operating in analog N A B L E D I G I T A L M O D E mode. To enable digital mode: Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices. Click Sounds and Audio Devices.
Page 50: Video And Monitor Problems
Video and Monitor Problems If the screen is blank NOTE: See the monitor documentation for troubleshooting procedures. H E C K T H E M O N I T O R P O W E R L I G H T ensure that the monitor is turned on.
Page 51 O V E T H E M O N I T O R A W A Y F R O M E X T E R N A L P O W E R S O U R C E S lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky."...
Page 52 Solving Pr oblems...
Page 53: Advanced Troubleshooting
S E C T I O N 3 A d v a n c e d Tr o u b l e s h o o t i n g Diagnostic Lights Dell Diagnostics Drivers ® Using Windows System Restore...
Page 54: Diagnostic Lights
• If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see page 87). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 113).
Page 55 • If the problem persists or the computer has integrated video, contact Dell (see page 113). Reseat all power and data cables and restart the computer. Advanced Tr oubleshooting...
Page 56 • Ensure that there are no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements (see page 87). • Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your computer (see page 87). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 113).
Page 57 CD drive, and DVD drive to the system board (see page 81). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 113). • If there is an error message on your screen identifying a problem with a device (such as...
Page 58: Dell Diagnostics
NOTICE: Use the Dell Diagnostics to test your Dell™ computer only. Using this program with other computers can result in error messages. Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive (see page 58) or from the Dell Dimension ResourceCD (see page 59).
Page 59 When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press <Enter>. When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see page 60). Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the ResourceCD Insert the ResourceCD.
Page 60 Dell Diagnostics Main Menu After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want. NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. Option...
Page 61: Drivers
When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the ResourceCD, remove the CD. Close the test screen to return to the Main Menu screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the Main Menu screen.
Page 62: Reinstalling Drivers
Reinstalling Drivers NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Dell Dimension ResourceCD provide 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.
Page 63: Using Windows ® System Restore
Finish to restart the computer. When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the ResourceCD. At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next. NOTE: The ResourceCD displays drivers only for hardware that came installed in your computer. If you installed additional hardware, the drivers for the new hardware might not be displayed by the ResourceCD.
Page 64: Restoring The Computer To An Earlier Operating State
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see page 62) 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.
Page 65: Resolving Software And Hardware Incompatibilities
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: Click the Start button and click Control Panel. Click Performance and Maintenance. Click System.
Page 66: Reinstalling Microsoft ® Windows ® Xp
Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so. NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP , disable any virus protection software installed on your computer before you reinstall Windows XP .
Page 67 Restart the computer. Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears. If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again. Press the arrow keys to select CD-ROM, and press <Enter>.
Page 68 If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition, at the What's your computer's name window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the name provided) and click Next. If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional, at the Computer Name and Administrator Password window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the one provided) and a password, and click Next.
Page 69: Adding Parts
S E C T I O N 4 A d d i n g Pa r t s Front and Back View of the Computer Reattaching the Front Door and Hinge Arms Opening the Computer Cover Looking Inside Your Computer Installing and Removing Cards Adding Memory Adding or Replacing the AGP Card...
Page 70: Front And Back View Of The Computer
Front and Back View of the Computer Front View Adding Parts *On computers with an optional floppy drive.
Page 71 Press this button to turn on the computer service tag The tag is used to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call technical support. headphone connector Attach headphones. Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most kinds of speakers.
Page 72: Back View
Back View Adding Parts...
Page 73 power connector Insert the power cable. voltage selection switch See the safety instructions on page 10 for more information. (may not be available on all computers) parallel connector Connect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel connector. If you have a USB printer, plug it into a USB connector.
Page 74 11 USB 2.0 connectors (6) Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards. It is recommended that you use the front USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras. 12 microphone connector Use the pink microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.
Page 75: Reattaching The Front Door And Hinge Arms
Reattaching the Front Door and Hinge Arms To prevent damage to your computer, the front-panel door is designed to "break away" if it is lifted up too far. If the front-panel door is open and it is pushed inward too hard, the hinge arms may also break away (the hinge arms are loose when they are detached).
Page 76 Lift both hinge arms to the horizontal position. Use the two view slots to align the pivot bar with the two pivot-bar slots. 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.
Page 77: Reattaching The Front Door
Reattach the front-panel insert. Reconnect the computer power cable to the electrical outlet. Reattach the front door. Reattaching the Front Door CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 27). Disconnect the computer power cable from the electrical outlet.
Page 78: Opening The Computer Cover
Opening the Computer Cover CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 27). Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
Page 79 Open the cover: Facing the back of the computer, press the release button on the right side of the computer with one hand while pulling up on the top of the cover with the other hand. Press the release button on the left side of the computer with one hand while pulling up on the top of the cover with the other hand.
Page 80: Looking Inside Your Computer
Looking Inside Your Computer NOTE: The AGP card is removed from the following illustration to provide a better view of the inside of your computer. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. NOTICE: Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not inadvertently disconnect cables from the system board.
Page 81: System Board
System Board hard drive floppy drive connector connector (FLOPPY) (PRI IDE) main power connector (MAIN POWER) memory module connectors (DIMM3, DIMM4) page 87 memory module connectors (DIMM1, DIMM2) page 87 microprocessor fan connector (FAN2) microprocessor connector (CPU_0) power connector (PWR) *On computers with optional integrated sound.
Page 82: Installing And Removing Cards
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. Your Dell™ computer provides slots for up to four 32-bit, 33-MHz cards. If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing a Card"...
Page 83 Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm. filler bracket retention arm lever If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 10. If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card.
Page 84 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot. If the card is full-length, insert the end of the card into the card guide bracket as you lower the card toward its connector on the system board. Insert the card firmly into the card connector on the system board.
Page 85 Before you lower the retention arm, 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. Press the arm into place, securing the card(s) in the computer.
Page 86: Removing A Card
If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening. If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see page 113). Lower the retention arm and press it into place, securing the card(s) in the computer.
Page 87: Adding Memory
Adding Memory You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 102. NOTE: DDR 333 memory operates at 320-MHz when used with an 800-MHz front-side bus. DDR Memory Overview DDR memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size.
Page 88: Memory Installation Guidelines
Dell. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2 or connectors DIMM3 and DIMM4. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module.
Page 89 Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer. Disconnect 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 opening the cover.
Page 90 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector. NOTICE: To avoid breaking the memory module, do not press near the middle of the module. Insert the module straight down into the connector, ensuring that it fits into the vertical guides at each end of the connector.
Page 91: Adding Or Replacing The Agp Card
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. Your Dell™ computer provides a connector for an AGP card. Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 27). Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
Page 92: Installing An Agp Card
Pull the card up and out of the card clip. Installing an AGP Card To add or replace the card, press the card lever toward the PCI connector and gently press the card into the AGP connector until it clicks into place. Release the card lever, ensuring that the tab fits into the notch on the front end of the card.
Page 93: Adding A Second Hard Drive
Connect the monitor cable to the card’s video connector. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. Adding a Second Hard Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9.
Page 94 Remove the first hard drive from the upper bay and install it in the lower bay: Disconnect the power and the hard-drive cables from the back of the first hard drive. Press in the two green rail tabs and pull the first hard drive out of the upper bay. Gently slide the first hard drive into the lower bay until you hear a click.
Page 95 Locate the extra connector on the drive cable that is attached to your first hard drive and attach the connector to the second hard drive. Your computer uses cable-select drive cables. This means that the device connected to the end connector of the drive cable is the master device and the device connected to the middle connector is the slave device.
Page 96: Adding A Floppy Drive
Adding a Floppy Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. Shut down the computer through the Start menu (see page 27). Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
Page 97: Removing The Front-Panel Insert
Removing the Front-Panel Insert Remove the front-panel insert before you install the floppy drive: Open the computer cover to a 90-degree angle (see page 78). Locate the insert in front of the floppy-drive bay. From inside the computer, push in the release tab of the insert. From outside the computer, pull the insert away from the computer’s front panel.
Page 98 If you are installing a floppy drive that was not purchased from Dell, remove the insert from the insert frame by pressing on the four tabs. If you purchased your floppy drive from Dell, attach the insert that you received in the floppy drive kit over the front of the drive bay.
Page 99: Installing A Floppy Drive
Installing a Floppy Drive Gently slide the drive into place until the tabs securely click into position. Attach the floppy-drive cable to the floppy drive and to the system board floppy-drive connector. Ensure that you route the floppy-drive cable through the cable restraint located on the side of the floppy-drive bay.
Page 100: Closing The Computer Cover
Highlight Drive Configuration and press <Enter>. Use the left and right arrows to change Diskette Drive A from Not Installed to 3.5 inch, 1.44MB. Press <Enter>. Highlight Integrated Devices (LegacySelect Options) and press <Enter>. Make sure that the Diskette Interface entry is set to Auto. If necessary, use the left and right arrows to set it to Auto.
Page 101: Appendix
S E C T I O N 5 A p p e n d i x Specifications Standard Settings Clearing Forgotten Passwords Replacing the Battery Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) Contacting Dell Regulatory Notices Limited Warranties...
Page 102: Specifications
Specifications Microprocessor Microprocessor type L1 cache L2 cache L3 cache Memory Type Memory connectors Memory capacities Minimum memory Maximum memory BIOS address Computer Information System chip set DMA channels Interrupt levels BIOS chip System clock Video Type Audio Type Appendix ®...
Page 103 Expansion Bus Bus types Bus speed connector connector size connector data width (maximum) bus protocols connectors connector size connector data width (maximum) Drives Externally accessible Available devices Internally accessible PCI and AGP PCI: 33 MHz AGP: 133 MHz 172 pins 32 bits 8x/4x/2x modes at 1.5 V four...
Page 104 Connectors Externally accessible: Serial Parallel Video Network Adapter PS/2 (keyboard and mouse) 5.1 Audio System board connectors: Primary IDE channel Secondary IDE channel Serial ATA drive Floppy drive Telephony (ATAPI) CD Audio (ATAPI) Controls and Lights Power control Power light Hard-drive access light Link integrity light (on integrated network adapter)
Page 105 Power DC power supply: Wattage Heat dissipation Voltage (see page 10 for important voltage setting information) Backup battery Physical Height Width Depth Weight Environmental Temperature: Operating Storage Relative humidity Maximum vibration: Operating Storage Maximum shock: Operating Storage Altitude: Operating Storage 250 W or 305 W 853 BTU (fully-loaded computer without monitor) 90 to 135 V at 50/60 Hz;...
Page 106: Standard Settings
Standard Settings The system setup program contains the standard settings for your computer. NOTICE: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings for this program. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly. See the following figure for an example of the main program screen. Appendix...
Page 107: Viewing Settings
Viewing Settings Turn on (or restart) your computer. When the blue DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you ® see the Microsoft Windows System Setup Screens The system setup program screens display the current configuration information for your computer.
Page 108 You can use this feature, for example, to tell the computer to boot from the CD drive so that you can run the Dell Diagnostics on the ResourceCD, but you must set the computer to boot from the hard drive when the diagnostic tests are complete.
Page 109: Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing Forgotten Passwords CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions on page 9. If you forget your user or setup password, you cannot operate your computer or change settings in the system setup program until you clear the forgotten password(s). NOTICE: This process erases both the system and setup passwords.
Page 110: Replacing The Battery
Reconnect the jumper plug to jumper PSWD (see page 81). Close the computer cover (see page 100). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack, and then plug it into the computer. Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on. Turning on your computer with the PSWD jumper installed reenables the password feature.
Page 111 Open the computer cover (see page 78). 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.
Page 112: Dell Technical Support Policy (U.s. Only)
All 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.
Page 113: Contacting Dell
NOTE: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed. 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.
Page 114 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Australia (Sydney) E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com International Access Code: 0011 E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com Country Code: 61 Home and Small Business City Code: 2 Government and Business Preferred Accounts Division (PAD) Customer Care...
Page 115 Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia) Country Code: 673 Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia) Canada (North York, Ontario) Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus International Access Code: 011 AutoTech (automated technical support) TechFax Customer Care (Home Sales/Small Business) Customer Care (med./large business, government) Technical Support (Home Sales/Small Business) Technical Support (med./large bus., government)
Page 116 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code China (Xiamen) Tech Support website: support.dell.com.cn Country Code: 86 Tech Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.com City Code: 592 Tech Support Fax Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™) Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell Precision™)
Page 117 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Czech Republic (Prague) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com Country Code: 420 Technical Support City Code: 2 Customer Care TechFax Switchboard Denmark (Copenhagen) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail Support (portable computers): den_nbk_support@dell.com...
Page 118 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Finland (Helsinki) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 990 E-mail: fin_support@dell.com Country Code: 358 E-mail Support (servers): Nordic_support@dell.com City Code: 9 Technical Support Technical Support Fax Relational Customer Care Home/Small Business Customer Care...
Page 119 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Germany (Langen) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com Country Code: 49 Technical Support City Code: 6103 Home/Small Business Customer Care Global Segment Customer Care Preferred Accounts Customer Care Large Accounts Customer Care...
Page 120 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Hong Kong Website: support.ap.dell.com International Access Code: 001 E-mail: ap_support@dell.com Country Code: 852 Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™) Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell Precision™) Technical Support (PowerApp™, PowerEdge™, PowerConnect™, and PowerVault™)
Page 121 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Italy (Milan) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/it/it/emaildell/ Country Code: 39 Home and Small Business City Code: 02 Technical Support Customer Care Switchboard Corporate Technical Support Customer Care Switchboard...
Page 122 Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™) Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and Inspiron) Technical Support (Dell Precision™, OptiPlex™, and Latitude™) Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) Technical Support (Axim™) Technical Support outside of Japan (Axim) Faxbox Service...
Page 123 Switchboard (Brussels, Belgium) Macao Technical Support Country Code: 853 Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) Transaction Sales Malaysia (Penang) Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) International Access Code: 00 Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron) Country Code: 60 Customer Service City Code: 4...
Page 124 Country Code: 31 (Enterprise): nl_server_support@dell.com City Code: 20 (Latitude): nl_latitude_support@dell.com (Inspiron): nl_inspiron_support@dell.com (Dimension): nl_dimension_support@dell.com (OptiPlex): nl_optiplex_support@dell.com (Dell Precision): nl_workstation_support@dell.com Technical Support Technical Support Fax Home/Small Business Customer Care Relational Customer Care Home/Small Business Sales Relational Sales Home/Small Business Sales Fax...
Page 125 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code New Zealand E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com Country Code: 64 Home and Small Business Government and Business Sales Nicaragua General Support Norway (Lysaker) Website: support.euro.dell.com...
Page 126 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Portugal Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/pt/en/emaildell/ Country Code: 351 Technical Support Customer Care Sales Puerto Rico General Support St. Kitts and Nevis General Support St. Lucia General Support St.
Page 127 International Access Code: 00 E-mail: swe_support@dell.com Country Code: 46 E-mail Support for Latitude and Inspiron: Swe-nbk_kats@dell.com City Code: 8 E-mail Support for OptiPlex: Swe_kats@dell.com E-mail Support for Servers: Nordic_server_support@dell.com Technical Support Relational Customer Care Home/Small Business Customer Care Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support...
Page 128 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Switzerland (Geneva) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: swisstech@dell.com Country Code: 41 E-mail for French-speaking HSB and Corporate Customers: support.euro.dell.com/ch/fr/emaildell/ City Code: 22 Technical Support (Home and Small Business) Technical Support (Corporate)
Page 129 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code U.K. (Bracknell) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Customer Care website: support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/Form/Home.asp Country Code: 44 City Code: 1344 E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees]) Technical Support (direct/PAD and general)
Page 130 Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers Dell Sales Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers) Software and Peripherals Sales Spare Parts Sales Extended Service and Warranty Sales Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or Speech-Impaired U.S. Virgin Islands General Support Venezuela General Support...
Page 131: Regulatory Notices
Plug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer and the receiver are on different branch circuits. If necessary, consult a Dell Technical Support representative or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. For additional regulatory information, see the Tell Me How help file that accompanied your computer.
Page 132: Nom Information (Mexico Only)
Input current rating: Appendix Dell Inc. One Dell Way Round Rock, TX 78682 Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11° Piso Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F. Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V.
Page 133: Limited Warranties
Limited Warranties Dell-branded hardware products purchased in the U.S. or Canada come with either a 90-day, 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, or 4-year limited warranty. To determine which warranty came with your hardware product(s), see your packing slip or invoice. The following sections describe the limited warranties for the U.S., the limited warranties for Canada, the manufacturer guarantee for Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Intel warranty for the U.S.
Page 134 The limited warranty on all Dell-branded products begins on the date of the packing slip or invoice. The warranty period is not extended if we repair or replace a warranted product or any parts. Dell may change the availability of limited warranties, at its discretion, but any changes will not be retroactive.
Page 135 We are not responsible for lost or corrupted data. What if I purchased a service contract? If your service contract is with Dell, service will be provided to you under the terms of the service agreement. Please refer to that contract for details on how to obtain service.
Page 136: Limited Warranty Terms For Dell-Branded Hardware Products (Canada Only)
Limited warranties on systems may be transferred if the current owner transfers ownership of the system and records the transfer with us. The limited warranty on Dell-branded memory may not be transferred. You may record your transfer by going to Dell's website: •...
Page 137 90 days. The limited warranty begins on the date of the invoice. The warranty period is not extended if we repair or replace a warranted product or any parts. Dell may change the terms and availability of limited warranties, at its discretion, but any changes will not be retroactive (that is, the warranty terms in place at the time of purchase will apply to your purchase).
Page 138 What if I purchased a service contract? If your service contract is with Dell, service will be provided to you under the terms of the service contract. Please refer to that contract for details on how to obtain service. Dell's service contracts can be found online at www.dell.ca or by calling Customer Care at 1-800-847-4096.
Page 139: Dell Software And Peripherals (Canada Only)
While Dell offers a wide selection of software and peripheral products, we do not specifically test or guarantee that all of the products we offer work with any or all of the various models of Dell computers, nor do we test or guarantee all of the products we sell on the hundreds of different brands of computers available today.
Page 140 Guarantee will be the end user’s sole and exclusive remedy against Dell or any of its affiliates, and neither Dell nor any of its affiliates shall be liable for loss of profit or contracts, or any other indirect or consequential loss arising from negligence, breach of contract, or howsoever.
Page 141: Celeron
® Intel Warranty Statement for Pentium (U.S. and Canada Only) Limited Warranty ® Intel warrants that its family of Pentium and Celeron conform to Intel’s publicly available specifications for a period of three (3) years after the date the Pentium or Celeron processor was purchased (whether purchased separately or as part of a computer system).
Page 142 ® ® Intel Pentium and Celeron Processors are backed by a three-year limited warranty. Please refer to the reverse side of this card for complete warranty details. Intel’s Commitment to Quality Intel is committed to producing the highest quality processors available. That’s why we have hundreds of people dedicated to continuously improve our design, manufacturing, and testing technology.
Page 143: Index
26 how to, 25 cover closing, 100 opening, 78 Dell contacting, 113 Dell Diagnostics, 58 Dell support policy, 112 Dell Support Website about, 14 solving problems, 40 diagnostic lights, 54 diagnostics Dell, 58 lights, 54 display. See monitor...
Page 144 96 problems, 33 front door reattaching, 75 hard drive problems, 35 hardware conflicts, 65 Dell Diagnostics, 58 problems, 40 Hardware Troubleshooter, 65 Help and Support Center, 14 help files accessing, 32 Hyper-Threading, 26 Index IEEE 1394 problems, 41...
Page 145 32 blue screen, 39 CD drive, 34 CD-RW drive, 34 computer crashes, 38-39 computer stops responding, 38 conflicts, 65 Dell Diagnostics, 58 diagnostic lights, 54 drives, 33 DVD drive, 35 e-mail, 35 error messages, 37 finding solutions, 30 floppy drive, 33...
Page 146 video problems, 50 video memory connector, 81 volume adjusting, 48 warranty, 133 Windows XP Device Driver Rollback, 62 Hardware Troubleshooter, 65 Help and Support Center, 14 help, accessing, 32 Hyper-Threading, 26 Program Compatibility Wizard, 39 reinstalling, 66 scanner, 48 System Restore, 63 wizards Program Compatibility Wizard, 39...

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Dimension 8300n

Dell Dimension 8300 Series User Manual

1 Setting up and Using Your Computer

2 Solving Problems

3 Advanced Troubleshooting

4 Adding Parts

5 Appendix

Index

Quick Links

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Summary of Contents for Dell Dimension 8300 Series

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Table of Contents