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Dell INSPIRON P17F Setup Manual

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INSPIRON
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SETUP GUIDE

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Summary of Contents for Dell INSPIRON P17F

  • Page 1 INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE...
  • Page 3 INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE Regulatory model: P17F Regulatory type: P17F001...
  • Page 4 WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death. If you purchased a Dell n Series computer, any references in this document to the Microsoft Windows operating systems are not applicable. This item incorporates copy protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights of Rovi Corporation.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Dell DataSafe Online Backup..51 Dell Stage ......52...
  • Page 6 Before You Call .....80 Contacting Dell..... 82 Finding More Information and Resources .

  • Page 7: Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop

    WARNING: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not place your Dell computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, or on fabric surfaces, such as carpets or rugs, while it is powered on.

  • Page 8: Connect The Ac Adapter

    Connect the AC Adapter Connect the AC adapter to the computer and then plug it into an electrical outlet or surge protector. WARNING: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to a power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or permanent damage to your computer.

  • Page 9: Connect The Network Cable

    Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Connect the Network Cable (Optional) To use a wired network connection, connect the network cable.

  • Page 10: Press The Power Button

    Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Press the Power Button...

  • Page 11: Set Up The Operating System

    Set Up the Operating System Your Dell computer is preconfigured with the operating system you selected at the time of purchase. Set Up Microsoft Windows To set up Microsoft Windows for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete.

  • Page 12: Create System Recovery Media

    You will require the following to create the system recovery media: • Dell DataSafe Local Backup • USB key with a minimum capacity of 8 GB or DVD-R/DVD+R/Blu-ray Disc (optional) NOTE: Dell DataSafe Local Backup does not support rewritable discs.
  • Page 13 1. Ensure that the AC adapter is connected (see “Connect the AC Adapter” on page 6). 2. Insert the disc or USB key in the computer. → All Programs→ Dell DataSafe Local Backup. 3. Click Start 4. Click Create Recovery Media.

  • Page 14: Install The Sim Card (Optional)

    Install the SIM Card (Optional) NOTE: The SIM card slot is available in your computer only if you ordered a WWAN card at the time of purchase. NOTE: Installing a SIM card is not required if you are using an EVDO card to access the Internet.
  • Page 15 Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop SIM card slot SIM card battery bay...

  • Page 16: Enable Or Disable Wireless (Optional)

    Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional)
  • Page 17 NOTE: The wireless key allows you to quickly turn off wireless radios (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth), such as when you are asked to disable all wireless radios on an airplane flight. Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop > key on the function key row on the keyboard.

  • Page 18: Set Up Wireless Display (Optional)

    Set Up Wireless Display (Optional) NOTE: The wireless display feature may not be supported on all computers. For information about the hardware and software requirements for setting up wireless display, see www.intel.com. The Intel wireless display feature allows you to share your computer display to a TV without the use of cables.

  • Page 19: Connect To The Internet (Optional)

    To connect to the Internet, you need an external modem or network connection and an Internet Service Provider (ISP). If an external USB modem or WLAN adapter is not a part of your original order, you can purchase one from dell.com.

  • Page 20: Setting Up A Wired Connection

    Setting Up a Wired Connection • If you are using a dial-up connection, connect the telephone line to the optional external USB modem and to the telephone wall connector before you set up your Internet connection. • If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem connection, contact your ISP or cellular telephone service for setup instructions.
  • Page 21 Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, the Connect to the Internet wizard can help you get one. Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop To set up your Internet connection: 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

  • Page 22: Using Your Inspiron Laptop

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop This section provides information about the features available on your Inspiron laptop. Right View Features...
  • Page 23 Audio-out/Headphone connector — Connects to a pair of headphones or to a powered speaker or sound system. Audio-in/Microphone connector — Connects to a microphone or inputs signal for use with audio programs. USB 3.0 connector — Provides faster data transmission between your computer and USB devices. Using Your Inspiron Laptop...

  • Page 24: Left View Features

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Left View Features...
  • Page 25 NOTE: If you turn off your computer while charging a USB device, the device stops charging. To continue charging, disconnect the USB device and connect it again. NOTE: The USB PowerShare feature is automatically shut off when only 10% of the total battery life remains. Using Your Inspiron Laptop...
  • Page 26 Using Your Inspiron Laptop...
  • Page 27 Using Your Inspiron Laptop 8-in-1 Media Card Reader — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, videos, and documents stored on memory cards. For the supported memory cards, see “Specifications” on page 86. NOTE: Your computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the media card slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles.

  • Page 28: Back View Features

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Back View Features...
  • Page 29 USB 3.0 connector — Provides faster data transmission between your computer and USB devices. VGA connector — Connects to a monitor or projector. AC adapter connector — Connects to the AC adapter to power the computer and charge the battery. Using Your Inspiron Laptop...

  • Page 30: Front View Features

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Front View Features 1 2 3 4...
  • Page 31 NOTE: The battery is charging when the computer is powered using the AC adapter. Wireless status light — Turns on when wireless is enabled. A solid white light indicates that wireless is enabled. NOTE: To enable or disable wireless, see “Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional)” on page 14. Using Your Inspiron Laptop...

  • Page 32: Status Lights And Indicators

    Status Lights and Indicators Battery Status Light Indicator light status AC adapter solid white Battery solid amber NOTE: The battery is charging when the computer is powered using the AC adapter. Computer state(s) Battery charge status on/standby/off/ charging hibernate on/standby/off/ fully charged hibernate on/standby...

  • Page 33: Disabling Battery Charging

    2. Click Start 3. In the search box, type Power Options and press <Enter>. 4. Under Power Options window, click Dell Battery Meter to open Battery Settings window. 5. Click Turn off Battery Charging and then click OK. NOTE: Battery charging can also be disabled in the System Setup (BIOS) utility.

  • Page 34: Features

    Computer Base and Keyboard Features...
  • Page 35 The touch pad supports the Scroll, Flick, and Zoom features. To change the touch pad settings, double-click the Dell Touch pad icon in the notification area of your desktop. For more information, see “Touch Pad Gestures” on page 36.
  • Page 36 Using Your Inspiron Laptop...
  • Page 37 Windows Mobility Center provides quick access to your mobile PC settings such as brightness control, volume control, battery status, wireless network and so on. Dell Support Center button — Press to launch the Dell Support Center. For more information, see “Dell Support Center” on page 62.

  • Page 38: Touch Pad Gestures

    Touch Pad Gestures NOTE: Some of the touch pad gestures may be disabled by default. To change the touch pad gestures settings, → Control Panel→ click Start Hardware and Sound→ Devices and Printers→ Mouse. Scroll Allows you to scroll through content. The scroll feature includes: Auto Scroll Vertical —...
  • Page 39 To zoom out: Move two fingers close together to reduce the view of the active window. Using Your Inspiron Laptop Flick Allows you to flip content forward or backward based on the direction of the flick. Move three fingers quickly in the desired direction to flip content in the active window.

  • Page 40: Multimedia Control Keys

    Multimedia Control Keys The multimedia control keys are located on the function key row on the keyboard. To use the multimedia controls, press the required key. You can configure the multimedia control keys on the keyboard using the System Setup (BIOS) utility or the Windows Mobility Center. System Setup 1.
  • Page 41 Play the previous track or chapter Play or pause Play the next track or chapter Using Your Inspiron Laptop Decrease the volume level Increase the volume level Mute the sound...

  • Page 42: Using The Optical Drive

    Using the Optical Drive CAUTION: Do not press down on the optical drive tray when you open or close it. Keep the optical drive tray closed when you are not using the drive. CAUTION: Do not move the computer while playing or recording a disc. The optical drive plays or records CDs and DVDs.
  • Page 43 Using Your Inspiron Laptop disc spindle optical drive tray 4 emergency eject hole optical drive eject button...

  • Page 44: Display Features

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Display Features...
  • Page 45 Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 Microphone — Provides high quality sound for video conferencing and voice recording. 2 Camera — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. 3 Camera indicator light — Indicates if the camera is on or off. A solid white light indicates...

  • Page 46: Removing And Replacing The Top Cover (Optional)

    (including the AC adapter). To remove the top cover: 1. Turn off the computer and close the display. 2. Press and hold the top cover release button, and then slide the top cover. NOTE: You can purchase additional replaceable top covers at dell.com.
  • Page 47 Using Your Inspiron Laptop back of the computer top cover top cover release button...
  • Page 48 To replace the top cover: NOTE: Ensure that the Dell logo is facing towards the back of the computer while replacing the top cover. 1. Align the top cover to the display back. 2. Slide the top cover until it clicks into place. Ensure that there are no gaps between the top...
  • Page 49 Using Your Inspiron Laptop...

  • Page 50: Removing And Replacing

    WARNING: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. This computer should only use a battery purchased from Dell. Do not use batteries from other computers. WARNING: Before removing the battery, shut down the computer, and remove external cables (including the AC adapter).
  • Page 51 Using Your Inspiron Laptop battery lock latch battery battery release latch...

  • Page 52: Software Features

    FastAccess Facial Recognition Your computer may have the FastAccess facial recognition feature. This feature helps keep your Dell computer secure by learning the unique appearance of your face and uses this to verify your identity to automatically supply login information when you would normally enter this information yourself (such as for logging on to a Windows account or secure...

  • Page 53: Dell Datasafe Online Backup

    Windows operating systems. NOTE: A broadband connection is recommended for fast upload/download speeds. Dell DataSafe Online is an automated backup and recovery service that helps protect your data and other important files from catastrophic incidents like theft, fire, or natural disasters.

  • Page 54: Dell Stage

    Dell Stage. • Minimize — Drag the Dell Stage window to the bottom of the screen. • Personalize — Select the settings icon and then choose the desired option.
  • Page 55 Facebook or Flickr when connected to the Internet. • DELL WEB — Provides a preview of up to four of your favorite web pages. Click the web page preview to open it in the web browser.

  • Page 56: Solving Problems

    This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies a problem. If this occurs, write down the beep code and contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 82) for assistance. NOTE: To replace parts, see the Service Manual at support.dell.com.

  • Page 57: Network Problems

    Network Problems Wireless Connections If the wireless network connection is lost — The wireless router is offline or wireless has been disabled on the computer. • Check your wireless router to ensure it is powered on and connected to your data source (cable modem or network hub). • Check if wireless is enabled on the computer (see “Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional)”...

  • Page 58: Power Problems

    • Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light on the AC adapter is on. • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 82). If the power light is solid white and the computer is not responding —...
  • Page 59 • If the display is not responding, press the power button until the computer turns off and then turn it back on. • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 82). Solving Problems If you encounter interference that hinders reception on your computer —...

  • Page 60: Memory Problems

    Manual at support.dell.com/manuals). • Reseat the memory module(s) into the connector(s) (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 82). If you experience other memory problems — • Run Dell Diagnostics (see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 64).
  • Page 61 If the computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears — CAUTION: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard, or by moving the connected mouse or a finger on the touch pad, press the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off...
  • Page 62 – 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. – Write down any error message that is displayed to help in troubleshooting when contacting Dell.
  • Page 63 Solving Problems...

  • Page 64: Using Support Tools

    All the support you need – one convenient location. The Dell Support Center provides system alerts, performance improvement offers, system information, and links to other Dell tools and diagnostic services. To launch the application, press the Dell Support Center button on your keyboard →...

  • Page 65: My Dell Downloads

    NOTE: My Dell Downloads may not be available in all regions. Some of the software pre-installed on your new Dell computer do not include a backup CD or DVD. This software is available on the My Dell Downloads website. From this...

  • Page 66: Hardware Troubleshooter

    Assessment (ePSA). The ePSA includes a series of diagnostic tests for devices such as the system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, and so on. 1. Turn on (or restart) your computer. 2. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
  • Page 67 <r>. • If failures are detected during the Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment, write down the error code(s) and contact Dell (for more information, see “Contacting Dell” on page 82). Using Support Tools If the Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, the following message appears “Do you want to run...

  • Page 68: Restoring Your Operating

    You can restore the operating system on your computer using any of the following options: CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image Restore or the Operating System disc to restore your operating system permanently deletes all data files on your computer. If possible, backup your data files before using these options.

  • Page 69: System Restore

    System Restore The Microsoft Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which 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.

  • Page 70: Dell Datasafe Local Backup

    Create backup media of applications you need to install on your computer before using Dell DataSafe Local Backup. Use Dell DataSafe Local Backup only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem. CAUTION: Although Dell Datasafe...

  • Page 71: Dell Datasafe Local Backup Basic

    Factory Image Restore (see “Dell Factory Image Restore” on page 72) to restore your operating system. You can use Dell DataSafe Local Backup to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer, while preserving the data files.
  • Page 72 • Backup and restore your computer based on file types • Backup files to a local storage device • Schedule automated backups To upgrade to Dell DataSafe Local Backup Professional: 1. Double-click the Dell DataSafe Local Backup icon in the notification area of your desktop.

  • Page 73: System Recovery Media

    1. Insert the system recovery disc or USB key and restart the computer. 2. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately. NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop;...

  • Page 74: Dell Factory Image Restore

    Dell DataSafe Local Backup (see “Dell DataSafe Local Backup” on page 68) to restore your operating system. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only as the last method to restore your operating system. This option restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer.
  • Page 75 5. To access the recovery options, log on as a local user. To access the command prompt, type administrator in the User name field, then click OK. 6. Click Dell Factory Image Restore. The Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen appears. NOTE: Depending upon your...

  • Page 76: Getting Help

    2. See “Dell Diagnostics” on page 64 for procedures on how to run diagnostic tests. 3. Fill out the “Diagnostic Checklist” on page 81. 4. Use Dell’s extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support (support.dell.com) for help with installation and troubleshooting procedures.

  • Page 77: Technical Support And Customer

    DellConnect DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and support associate to access your computer through a broadband connection, diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision.

  • Page 78: Online Services

    Online Services You can learn about Dell products and services on the following websites: • dell.com • dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) • dell.com/jp (Japan only) • euro.dell.com (Europe only) • dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries) • dell.ca (Canada only) You can access Dell Support through the...

  • Page 79: Automated Order-Status Service

    Product Information If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, go to the Dell website at dell.com. For the telephone number to call for your region or to speak to a sales specialist, see “Contacting Dell”...

  • Page 80: Returning Items For Repair Under

    Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: NOTE: Before you return the product to Dell, ensure that you back up any data on the hard drive(s) and on any other storage device in the product. Remove...
  • Page 81 Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted. NOTE: Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at Dell’s receiving dock and returned to you.

  • Page 82: Before You Call

    Before You Call NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also be asked for your Service Tag. Locating Your Service Tag and Express Service Code The Service Tag and Express Service Code for your computer can be found on a label at the bottom of your computer.
  • Page 83 Remember to fill out the following Diagnostic Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed...

  • Page 84: Contacting Dell

    If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell. • Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code: • Description of problem and...
  • Page 85 To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues: 1. Go to dell.com/ContactDell. 2. Select your country or region. 3. Select the appropriate service or support link based on your requirement. 4. Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.

  • Page 86: Resources

    Windows operating system and features find your Service Tag/Express Service Code — You must use the service tag to identify your computer on support.dell.com or to contact technical support upgrade your computer with new or additional components like a new hard drive...
  • Page 87 Finding More Information and Resources See: the safety and regulatory documents that shipped with your computer and also see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at dell.com/regulatory_compliance support.dell.com...

  • Page 88: Specifications

    NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, see the Detailed System Information section in the Dell Support Center. To launch the Dell Support Center, click Start Dell Support Center→ Launch Dell Support Center.
  • Page 89 2 GB, 3 GB, 4 GB, 6 GB, configurations and 8 GB Memory type 1333 MHz SODIMM DDR3 NOTE: For instructions on upgrading the memory, see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals. Connectors Audio one microphone-in connector and one stereo headphones/ speakers connector Mini-Card...

  • Page 90: Media Card Reader

    Media Card Reader Cards Secure Digital (SD) supported memory card Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Memory Stick (MS) Memory Stick PRO (MS-PRO) MultiMedia Card (MMC) MultiMedia Card plus (MMC+) xD-Picture Card Keyboard Number of 86 (U.S. and Canada); keys 87 (Europe);...
  • Page 91 Video Discrete: Video AMD Radeon HD 6470M controller /7450M NVIDIA GeForce GT 525M Video 512 MB/1 GB DDR3 memory UMA: Video Intel HD Graphics 3000 controller Video up to 1.6 GB of shared memory memory Camera Camera 1.0 megapixel resolution Camera type widescreen HD Video resolution...

  • Page 92: Touch Pad

    Touch Pad X/Y position 240 cpi resolution (graphics table mode) Size: Height 56 mm (2.20 inches) Width 100 mm (3.94 inches) Battery 6-cell “smart” lithium ion: Height 22.80 mm (0.90 inches) Width 214 mm (8.43 inches) Depth 57.64 mm (2.27 inches) Weight 0.34 kg (0.75 lb) Battery...
  • Page 93 Physical Height 30.70 mm to 35.28 mm (1.21 inches to 1.39 inches) Width 376 mm (14.8 inches) Depth 260.20 mm (10.24 inches) Weight (with configurable to less 6-cell battery than 2.54 kg (5.40 lb) and optical drive) AC Adapter NOTE: Use only AC adapters specified for use with your computer.
  • Page 94 1.30 GRMS Operating Computer Environment Maximum shock (for operating — measured with Dell Diagnostics running on the hard drive and a 2-ms half-sine pulse; for non-operating — measured with the hard drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms half-sine pulse):...

  • Page 95: Appendix

    11950 México, D.F. Regulatory model number Voltage P17F 100-240 For details, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see dell.com/regulatory_compliance. Electricity Frequency consumption 50-60 Hz 1.5 A/1.6 A/ 1.7 A/2.3 A/2.5 A...

  • Page 96: Index

    Contacting Dell online 82 customer service 75 DataSafe Local Backup Basic 69 Professional 70 DellConnect 75 Dell Factory Image Restore 72 Dell Stage 52 Dell Support Center 62 Diagnostic Checklist 81 drivers and downloads 85 DVDs, playing and creating 50...
  • Page 97 finding more information 84 FTP login, anonymous 76 gestures Touch Pad 36 hard drive activity light 29 hardware problems diagnosing 64 Hardware Troubleshooter 64 HDMI connector 23 help getting assistance and support 74 Internet connection 17 Internet Service Provider 17 memory problems solving 58 network connection...
  • Page 98 problems, solving 54 products information and purchasing 77 resources, finding more 84 restoring factory image 72 Service Tag locating 80 setup, before you begin 5 shipping products for return or repair 78 SIM card 12 software features 50 software problems 58 solving problems 54 specifications 86 support e-mail addresses 76...
  • Page 99 Program Compatibility Wizard 59 Windows Mobility Center 38 wired network network cable, connecting 7 wireless network connecting 14 problems 55 Index...
  • Page 102 Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.com...

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