Dell Inspiron DCSLF Setup Manual
Dell Inspiron DCSLF Setup Manual

Dell Inspiron DCSLF Setup Manual

Dell desktop computer setup guide
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INSPIRON
SETUP GUIDE

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Summary of Contents for Dell Inspiron DCSLF

  • Page 1 INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE...
  • Page 3 INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE Regulatory model: DCSLF...
  • Page 4 Trademarks used in this text: Dell , the DELL logo, YOURS IS HERE, Inspiron, Dell On Call, and DellConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks and Core is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries;...
  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Dell DataSafe Online Backup ... . 25 Dell Dock ......26 Solving Problems .
  • Page 6 Before You Call......54 Contacting Dell......55 Finding More Information and Resources .
  • Page 7: Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop

    For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance. Before Setting Up Your Computer When positioning your computer, ensure that you allow easy access to a power source, adequate ventilation, and a level surface to place your computer.
  • Page 8: Extend The Rear Stabilizing Feet

    Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Extend the Rear Stabilizing Feet With the computer sitting in an upright position, carefully lift the rear of the computer, and rotate the stabilizing feet outwards. The extended feet ensure maximum system stability.
  • Page 9: Connect The Keyboard And Mouse

    Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Connect the Keyboard and Mouse Connect the USB keyboard and mouse to the USB connectors on the back panel of your computer.
  • Page 10: Connect The Display

    NOTE: A DVI connector may be available if you purchased a discrete graphics card. You can purchase the HDMI‑to‑DVI adapter and additional HDMI or DVI cables at www.dell.com. Use the appropriate cable based on the connectors available on your computer and display. Refer to the following table to identify the connectors on your computer and display.
  • Page 11 Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Connection Type Computer Cable Display VGA‑to‑VGA (VGA cable) DVI‑to‑DVI (DVI cable) HDMI‑to‑HDMI (HDMI cable) HDMI‑to‑DVI (HDMI‑to‑DVI adapter + DVI cable)
  • Page 12: Connect The Network Cable (Optional)

    Connect the Network Cable (Optional) A network connection is not required to complete your computer setup, but if you have an existing network or Internet connection that uses a cable connection (such as a broadband device or Ethernet jack), you can connect it now. NOTE: Use only an Ethernet cable to connect to the network connector (RJ45 connector).
  • Page 13: Connect The Power Cable

    Connect the Power Cable CAUTION: To help avoid damaging your computer, ensure that the voltage selector switch is set for the voltage that most closely matches the AC power available in your location. To locate the voltage selector switch, see “Back View Features”...
  • Page 14: Press The Power Button

    Setting Up Your Inspiron Desktop Press the Power Button...
  • Page 15: Set Up Microsoft Windows

    Set Up Microsoft Windows Your Dell computer is preconfigured with Microsoft Windows operating system. To ® ® set up Windows for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete.
  • Page 16 Setting Up a Wireless Connection NOTE: To set up your wireless router, see the documentation that shipped with your router. Before you can use your wireless Internet connection, you need to connect to your wireless router. To set up your connection to a wireless router: Windows Vista ®...
  • Page 17 Windows Vista NOTE: The following instructions are applicable for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows classic view. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
  • Page 18: Using Your Inspiron Desktop

    Using Your Inspiron Desktop This section provides information about the features available on your Inspiron Front View Features 1 FlexBay drive eject button — Opens the Flexbay cover when pressed. 2 FlexBay slot — Can support an optional Media Card Reader or an additional hard drive.
  • Page 19 9 Optical drive eject button — Ejects the optical drive tray when pressed. 10 Service Tag and Express Service Code (located on top of the chassis towards the back) — Helps to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call technical support.
  • Page 20: Back View Features

    Back View Features...
  • Page 21 1 Security cable slot — Attaches a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. 2 Padlock rings — Attaches to a standard padlock to prevent unauthorized access to the interior of your computer, 3 Power connector — Connects to the power cable. Appearance of this connector may vary.
  • Page 22: Back Panel Connectors

    Back Panel Connectors...
  • Page 23 1 Your computer’s model number. HDMI connector — Connects to a TV for both 5.1 audio and video signals. NOTE: When used with a monitor, only the video signal will be read. VGA connector — Connects to the display. USB 2.0 connectors (4) — Connects to USB devices, such as a mouse, printer, keyboard, external drive, or MP3 player.
  • Page 24: Software Features

    Software Features NOTE: For more information about the features described in this section, see the Dell Technology Guide available on your hard drive or at support.dell.com/manuals. Productivity and Communication You can use your computer to create presentations, brochures, greeting cards, fliers, and spreadsheets.
  • Page 25 You can use the power options in your operating system to configure the power settings on your computer. The Microsoft Windows ® system installed on your Dell computer provides the following options: • Balanced/Dell Recommended performance when you need it and saves power during periods of inactivity.
  • Page 26 To transfer information to a new computer: Windows Vista NOTE: The following instructions are applicable for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view. Click → Control Panel→ System Start and Maintenance→...
  • Page 27: Dell Datasafe Online Backup

    Dell DataSafe Online Backup NOTE: Dell DataSafe Online may not be available in all regions. NOTE: A broadband connection is recommended for fast upload or 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 28: Dell Dock

    Dell Dock The Dell Dock is a group of icons that provides easy access to frequently‑used applications, files, and folders. You can personalize the Dock by: • Adding or removing icons • Grouping related icons into categories Add a Category Right‑click the Dock, click...
  • Page 29: Solving Problems

    Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start‑up if there are errors or problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies a problem. Write down the beep code and contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 55). Beep Code Possible Problem Possible motherboard failure ‑...
  • Page 30: Network Problems

    Network Problems Wireless Connections If the network connection is lost — The wireless router is offline or wireless has been disabled on the computer. • Check your wireless router to ensure it is powered on and connected to your data source (cable modem or network hub).
  • Page 31: Power Problems

    — The display may not be connected or powered on. • Ensure that the display is properly connected and then turn it off, then back on. • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 55).
  • Page 32 Dell” on page 55). If the power light is blinking amber — There may be a problem with the system board. For assistance, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 55). If you encounter interference that hinders reception on your computer — An unwanted signal is creating interference by interrupting or blocking other signals.
  • Page 33: Memory Problems

    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 55). If you experience other memory problems — • Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals).
  • Page 34: Lockups And Software Problems

    Lockups and Software Problems If the computer does not start up — Ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet. If a program stops responding — End the program: Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously. Click Applications.
  • Page 35 Windows Vista Click Start → Control Panel→ Programs→ Use an older program with this version of Windows. In the welcome screen, click Follow the instructions on the screen. Windows 7 Click Start Use an older In the search box, type program with this version of Windows and press <Enter>.
  • Page 36: Using Support Tools

    Using Support Tools Dell Support Center The Dell Support Center helps you find the service, support, and system‑specific information you need. To launch the application, click the the taskbar. The Dell Support Center home page displays your computer’s model number, service tag, express service code, and service contact information.
  • Page 37: System Messages

    Dell Technical Support — The computer failed to complete the boot routine three consecutive times for the same error. Contact Dell for assistance (see “Contacting Dell” on page 55). CMOS checksum error — Possible motherboard failure or coin‑cell battery low.
  • Page 38 NOTICE - Hard Drive SELF MONITORING SYSTEM has reported that a parameter has exceeded its normal operating range. Dell recommends that you back up your data regularly. A parameter out of range may or may not indicate a potential hard drive problem —...
  • Page 39: Hardware Troubleshooter

    Ensure that the device that you want to test displays in the system setup program and is active. Press <F2> during POST (Power On Self Test) to enter the System Setup (BIOS) utility. Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities disc.
  • Page 40 Starting Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive. NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 55). Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly.
  • Page 41 Press any key to go to the Option window. If PSA is not invoked: Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive and go to the Choose An Option window. Select the test you want to run.
  • Page 42 When the tests complete, close the test screen to return to the Choose An Option window. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, click Exit. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and to restart the computer, click Exit. Remove the Drivers and Utilities disc.
  • Page 43: Restoring Your Operating System

    This procedure permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any programs installed after you received the computer. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
  • Page 44: System Restore

    System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them. NOTE: The procedures in this document are applicable for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view. Starting System Restore Click...
  • Page 45: Dell Datasafe Local Backup

    Dell DataSafe Local Backup NOTE: Dell DataSafe Local Backup may not be available in all regions. Dell DataSafe Local Backup is a backup and recovery application that can restore your computer if you lose data due to a virus attack, accidentally delete critical files or folders, or if the hard drive crashes.
  • Page 46 NOTE: Do not disconnect the display, keyboard, mouse, and the power cable. Turn on your computer. When the Dell logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the Advanced Boot Options window. NOTE: If you wait too long and the...
  • Page 47: Dell Factory Image Restore

    NOTE: Dell Factory Image Restore may not be available in certain countries or on certain computers. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only as the last method to restore your operating system. These options restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer.
  • Page 48 Performing Dell Factory Image Restore Turn on the computer. When the Dell logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the Advanced Boot Options Window. NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until...
  • Page 49: Operating System Reinstallation

    NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities disc contains drivers that were installed during the assembly of the computer. Use the Dell Drivers and Utilities disc to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from which you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the...
  • Page 50 Insert the Click Exit if the Install Windows message appears. Restart the computer. 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 desktop;...
  • Page 51: Getting Help

    See “Online Services” on page 51 for a more extensive list of Dell Support online. If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see “Contacting Dell” on page 55.
  • Page 52: 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. For more information, go to support.dell.com/dellconnect.
  • Page 53: Online Services

    Online Services You can learn about Dell products and services on the following websites: • www.dell.com • www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) • (Japan only) www.dell.com/jp • www.euro.dell.com (Europe only) • www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries) • (Canada only) www.dell.ca You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e‑mail addresses:...
  • Page 54: Automated Order-Status Service

    Automated Order-Status Service To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order‑status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order.
  • Page 55: Returning Items For Repair Under Warranty Or For Credit

    Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: NOTE: Before you return the product to Dell, make sure to back up any data on the hard drive and on any other storage device in the product. Remove any and...
  • Page 56: Before You Call

    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,...
  • Page 57: Contacting Dell

    Dell provides several online and telephone‑ based support and service options. Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues: Visit www.dell.com/contactdell.
  • Page 58: Resources

    Drivers and Utilities disc NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at support.dell.com. the Dell Technology Guide available on your hard drive or at support.dell.com/manuals the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals NOTE: In some countries, opening and replacing parts of your computer may void your warranty.
  • Page 59 For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance. the top of the computer the Dell Support Center. To launch the Dell Support Center, click the icon in the taskbar. support.dell.com...
  • Page 60: Basic Specifications

    This section provides information that you may need when setting up, updating drivers for, and upgrading your computer. For more detailed specifications, see the Comprehensive Specifications at support.dell.com/manuals. NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, click Start →...
  • Page 61 Memory type DDR3 DIMM; non‑ECC memory only Minimum 1 GB Maximum 8 GB NOTE: For instructions on upgrading memory, see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals. Video Integrated Intel GMA HD Discrete PCI Express x16 card (optional) Audio Type integrated 7.1 channel,...
  • Page 62 External Connectors Network adapter one RJ45 connector two front‑panel and four back‑panel USB 2.0‑compliant connectors Audio front panel — headphone and microphone connectors back panel — six connectors for 7.1 channel support Video one 15‑hole VGA connector and one 19‑pin HDMI connector Communication Wireless PCI Express WiFi card...
  • Page 63 Computer Environment Temperature ranges: Operating 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F) Storage –40°C to 65°C (–40°F to 149°F) Relative 20% to 80% (non‑condensing) humidity (maximum): Maximum vibration (using a random‑vibration spectrum that simulates user environment): Operating 0.25 GRMS Non‑ 2.2 GRMS Operating Computer Environment Maximum shock (measured with hard drive...
  • Page 64: Appendix

    Appendix Macrovision Product Notice This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation.
  • Page 65: Information For Nom, Or Official Mexican Standard (Only For Mexico)

    The following information is provided in the device(s) described in this document in accordance with the requirements of the Official Mexican Standard (NOM): Importer: Dell México S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 ‑ 11° Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F.
  • Page 66: Index

    23 your energy settings 23 data, backing up 24 DataSafe Local Backup 43 DellConnect 50 Dell DataSafe Online Backup 25 Dell Diagnostics 37 Dell Dock 26 Dell Factory Image Restore 41 Dell Technology Guide for futher information 56...
  • Page 67 Diagnostic Checklist 54 drivers and downloads 57 DVDs, playing and creating 22 eject button 16, 17 email addresses for technical support 51 energy conserving 23 Express Service Code 57 front‑view connectors 16 FTP login, anonymous 51 hard drive type 58 hard drive activity light 17 hardware problems diagnosing 37...
  • Page 68 network connection fixing 28 network connector location 21 order status 52 power button 16 power problems, solving 29 problems, solving 27 processor 58 products information and purchasing 52 reinstalling Windows 47 restoring data 44 restoring factory image 45 Service Tag 57 shipping products for return or repair 53 software features 22...
  • Page 69 technical support 50 temperature operating and storage ranges 61 USB 2.0 back connectors 21 front connectors 17 warranty returns 53 Windows Program Compatibility Wizard 32 reinstalling 48 wireless network connection 28...
  • Page 72 Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.com 048WNFA01...

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