Dell Precision M2300 User Manual
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Dell Precision M2300 User Manual

Dell Precision M2300 User Manual

Dell precision m2300 user's guide
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Download this manual See also: Service Manual, User Manual
Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide
Finding Information
About Your Computer
Transferring Information to a New Computer
Using a Battery
Using the Keyboard
Using the Display
Setting Up and Using Networks
Using Multimedia
Using Cards
Securing Your Computer
 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.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2007–2008 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Dell Precision, ExpressCharge, TravelLite, Strike Zone, Wi-Fi Catcher, and Client Manager are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Core, Centrino,
and Intel are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Outlook, Windows, and Windows Vista are either registered trademarks or trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; TouchStrip is
a trademark of UPEK, Inc.; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY
STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
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 PP18L
August 2008 P/N NY105 Rev. A03
Troubleshooting
System Setup Program
Reinstalling Software
Adding and Replacing Parts
Dell™ QuickSet 
Traveling With Your Computer
Specifications
Getting Help
Appendix

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  • Page 1 STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency. 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.

  • Page 2: About Your Computer

    Back to Contents Page   About Your Computer Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide   Front View   Left Side View   Right Side View   Back View   Bottom View NOTE: The appearance of your computer may vary slightly from the model shown in this document.  Front View display latch...
  • Page 3 Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in a power management mode. Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.   NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is flashing.

  • Page 4: Left Side View

    CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your Dell computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

  • Page 5: Right Side View

    — When enabled through Dell QuickSet, this switch can scan for a wireless LAN (WLAN) in your vicinity. You can also use it to rapidly turn off or on any wireless devices such as WLAN cards and internal cards with Bluetooth wireless technology (see Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator).

  • Page 6: Back View

     Back View network connector (RJ-45) modem connector (RJ-11) USB connectors serial connector video connector AC adapter connector air vents           CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running.

  • Page 7: Bottom View

    The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either on or off.   CAUTION: 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 the power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage.
  • Page 8 — Lets you attach your computer to a docking device. See the Dell documentation that came with your docking device for more information.   memory module cover — Covers the compartment that contains the second memory module connector (DIMM B) (see Memory).

  • Page 9: Cleaning Your Computer

    Back to Contents Page   Appendix Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide   Cleaning Your Computer   FCC Notice (U.S. Only)   Macrovision Product Notice  Cleaning Your Computer   CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

  • Page 10: Fcc Notice (U.s. Only)

    2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. NOTICE: The FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell Inc. could void your authority to operate this equipment. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

  • Page 11: Macrovision Product Notice

    If necessary, consult a representative of Dell Inc. or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in compliance with the FCC regulations:  Product names: Dell Precision™ M2300  Model number: PP18L  Company name:...

  • Page 12: Using A Battery

      Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, battery health, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

  • Page 13: Conserving Battery Power

    You can check battery health in one of two ways: by using the charge gauge on the battery as described below and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

  • Page 14: Configuring Power Management Settings

    inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby or sleep mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby or sleep mode. NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby or sleep mode, it may lose data. To enter standby mode in Windows XP, click the Start button, click Turn off computer, and then click Stand by.

  • Page 15: Replacing The Battery

    If necessary, the AC adapter then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge. NOTE: With Dell™ ExpressCharge™, when the computer is turned off, the AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery to 80 percent in about 1  hour and to 100 percent in approximately 2 hours. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer for as long as you like.

  • Page 16: Using Cards

    Back to Contents Page   Using Cards Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide   Card Types   Installing a PC Card or ExpressCard   Removing a Card or Blank NOTE: Electrical and electronic devices are sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). If a substantial ESD occurs, the device may reset and the device software may attempt to reinitialize a connection.

  • Page 17: Removing A Card Or Blank

    PC Card   1. Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into the slot and the top side of the card facing up. The latch may need to be in the "in" position before you insert the card.   2.

  • Page 18: Using The Display

    Back to Contents Page   Using the Display Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide   Adjusting Brightness   Using the Ambient Light Sensor   Switching the Video Image   Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate   Dual Independent Display Mode   Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays  Adjusting Brightness When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing <Fn>  and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard.

  • Page 19: Setting Display Resolution And Refresh Rate

    NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with your Dell-installed operating system. If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values.

  • Page 20: Swapping Primary And Secondary Displays

    If necessary, press <Fn><F8> to bring the screen image back to the computer display.  Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays To swap your primary and secondary display designations (for example, to use your external monitor as your primary display after docking):  ...

  • Page 21: Finding Information

        NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at support.dell.com.  How to set up my computer   Quick Reference Guide  Basic troubleshooting information  How to run the Dell Diagnostics  ...
  • Page 22     To download Notebook System Software: 1.  Go to support.dell.com, select your region or business segment, and enter your Service Tag. 2.  Select Drivers & Downloads and click Go. 3.  Click your operating system and search for the keyword Notebook System Software.
  • Page 23  Information on network activity, the Power Management Wizard,   Dell QuickSet Help hotkeys, and other items controlled by Dell QuickSet. To view Dell QuickSet Help, right-click the QuickSet icon in the Microsoft®  Windows® taskbar. For more information on Dell QuickSet, see Dell™ QuickSet.
  • Page 24 Back to Contents Page   Glossary Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer.  A AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet.
  • Page 25 CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once. CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read CDs and DVDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs.
  • Page 26 — A connector on the system board (in some computers) where you insert an expansion card, connecting it to the system bus. Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™ computer. Use the Express Service Code when contacting Dell for assistance.  Express Service Code service may not be available in some countries.
  • Page 27 MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes per second. This measurement is typically used for data transfer ratings. media bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module. memory — A temporary data storage area inside your computer. Because the data in memory is not permanent, it is recommended that you frequently save your files while you are working on them, and always save your files before you shut down the computer.
  • Page 28 modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, and internal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail. module bay —...
  • Page 29 — An I/O port often used to connect devices such as a handheld digital device or digital camera to your computer. Service Tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service or technical support.
  • Page 30 system board — The main circuit board in your computer. Also known as the motherboard. system setup — A utility that serves as an interface between the computer hardware and the operating system. System setup allows you to configure user- selectable options in the BIOS, such as date and time or system password.
  • Page 31 write-protected — Files or media that cannot be changed. Use write-protection when you want to protect data from being changed or destroyed. To write- protect a 3.5-inch floppy disk, slide its write-protect tab to the open position. WWAN — wireless wide area network. A wireless high-speed data network using cellular technology and covering a much larger geographic area than WLAN. WXGA —...

  • Page 32: Getting Help

    Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries. When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder, double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.

  • Page 33: Problems With Your Order

    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. For the telephone number to call for your region, see Contacting Dell."...

  • Page 34: Before You Call

    For customers in the United States, call 800-W W W-DELL (800-999-3355). NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog. 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.

  • Page 35: Using The Keyboard

     Key Combinations   System Functions <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Task Manager window.   Battery <Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter (see Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter).   Display Functions <Fn><F8> Switches the video image to the next display option. The options include the integrated display, an external monitor, and both displays simultaneously.

  • Page 36: Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions

    Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window (see Accessing Power Options Properties). <Fn><F1> Puts the computer into hibernate mode. Dell QuickSet is required (see Dell™ QuickSet).   Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions Windows logo key and <m> Minimizes all open windows.

  • Page 37: Changing The Track Stick Cap

     Changing the Track Stick Cap You can replace your track stick cap if it wears down from prolonged use or if you prefer a different color. You can purchase additional caps by visiting the Dell website at dell.com.   1. Pull the cap off the track stick.

  • Page 38: Using Multimedia

    Back to Contents Page   Using Multimedia Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide   Playing Media   Copying Media   Adjusting the Volume   Adjusting the Picture  Playing Media NOTICE: Do not press down on the media tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive.

  • Page 39: Copying Media

    The types of media drives offered by Dell may vary by country. The following instructions explain how to make a copy using Roxio Creator Plus - Dell Edition. You can also use Roxio Creator Plus for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data.

  • Page 40: Helpful Tips

    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 the disc later.   CD-Writable Drives         Media Type Read Write Rewritable...

  • Page 41: Adjusting The Picture

    When the meter is enabled, adjust the volume with the volume control buttons. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar and click Help.  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.

  • Page 42: Setting Up And Using Networks

      Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System   Wireless Local Area Network   Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)   Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator    Microsoft® Windows® Firewall Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer, or a network. For example, with a network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer, access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or access the Internet.

  • Page 43: Wireless Local Area Network

     Wireless Local Area Network A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each computer. In a WLAN, a radio communications device called an access point or wireless router connects network computers and provides Internet, or network, access.

  • Page 44: Connecting To A Wlan

    If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions in the user documentation for your wireless network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see Checking Your Wireless Network Card.

  • Page 45: Mobile Broadband (Or Wireless Wide Area Network)

    Thereafter, whenever you log on to your computer within the range of the wireless network that you selected, the same pop-up notifies you of the wireless network connection. NOTE: If you select a secure network, you must enter a WEP or WPA key when prompted. Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information. NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.

  • Page 46: Enabling/Disabling The Dell™ Mobile Broadband Card

    To scan for WiFi WLAN, slide and hold the switch in the "momentary" position for a few seconds. The Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator functions regardless of whether your computer is turned on or off, in hibernate mode, or in standby or sleep mode, as long as the switch is configured through Dell QuickSet or the...

  • Page 47: Microsoft® Windows® Firewall

    While working in Microsoft Windows operating systems, the light is designed not to appear. Because the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator is disabled and not configured for use when your computer is shipped to you, you must first use Dell QuickSet to enable and configure the switch to control WiFi network connections.

  • Page 48: Adding And Replacing Parts

    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.

  • Page 49: Hinge Cover

      2. Turn off your computer (see Turning Off Your Computer).   3. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions. NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall connector.  ...

  • Page 50: Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology

    CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, follow the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as the back panel) on the computer.  ...

  • Page 51: Coin-Cell Battery

    card cable card metal tab NOTICE: Be careful when removing the card to avoid damaging the card, card cable, or surrounding components.   3. Carefully remove the card cable from its routing guide.   4. While grasping the card cable with one hand, use a plastic scribe to gently pry the card out from underneath the metal tab with the other hand.  ...
  • Page 52 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.
  • Page 53 4. If you are replacing a memory module, ground yourself and remove the existing module: a.  Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up. b.  Remove the module from the connector. securing clips (2 per connector) memory module  ...

  • Page 54: Wireless Local Area Network (Wlan) Card

    3. If you are replacing a memory module, ground yourself and remove the existing module: a.  Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up. b.  Remove the module from the connector. securing clips (2 per connector) memory module NOTICE:...
  • Page 55   3. Remove the keyboard (see Keyboard). 1 WLAN card 2 antenna cables (2) NOTICE: To prevent damage to the connector, do not use tools to spread the securing clips.   4. If a WLAN card is not already installed, go to step 5. If you are replacing a WLAN card, remove the existing card: a.

  • Page 56: Mobile Broadband Card

    1 WLAN card 2 antenna cable connectors NOTICE: To avoid damaging the WLAN card, never place cables on top of or under the card. NOTE: Your WLAN card may have two or three connectors, depending on the type of card you ordered. NOTE: For more specific information about which cable to connect to which connector, see the documentation that came with your WLAN card.

  • Page 57: Subscriber Identity Module (Sim) Card

      4. If a Mobile Broadband card is not already installed, go to step 5. If you are replacing a Mobile Broadband card, remove the existing card: a.  Disconnect the Mobile Broadband card from any attached cables. 1 Mobile Broadband card 2 metal securing tabs (2) b.

  • Page 58: Hard Drive

    Hard drives are extremely fragile; even a slight bump can damage the drive. NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than Dell. To replace the hard drive in the hard drive bay:  ...

  • Page 59: Removing Media Bay Devices

      3. Slide the hard drive out of the computer.   4. Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive. NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage the connector.  ...
  • Page 60   1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.   2. Remove the hinge cover (see Hinge Cover).   3. Remove the keyboard (see Keyboard).   4. Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer. NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.

  • Page 61: Dell™ Quickset

     Power management  Display  System information Depending on what you want to do in Dell™ QuickSet, you can start it by either clicking, double-clicking, or right-clicking the QuickSet icon in the Microsoft®  Windows® taskbar. The taskbar is located in the lower-right corner of your screen. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon and select Help. Back to Contents Page...

  • Page 62: Securing Your Computer

    Back to Contents Page   Securing Your Computer Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide   Security Cable Lock   Smart Card   Passwords   Trusted Platform Module (TPM)   Security Management Software   Computer Tracking Software   If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen  Security Cable Lock NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock.

  • Page 63: About Passwords

    1 gold 2 smart card contact pad (top)   2. Slide the smart card into the smart card slot until the card is completely seated in its connector. The smart card will protrude approximately 1/2 inch from the slot. The smart card slot is located below the PC Card slot. If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card.

  • Page 64: Using A Primary (Or System) Password

    Some hard drives do not support hard drive passwords. NOTE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However, they are not foolproof. For security, the Dell Precision™ M2300 ships with a smart card reader.

  • Page 65: Trusted Platform Module (Tpm)

    To secure your TPM data and encryption keys, follow the backup procedures documented in the Broadcom Secure Foundation Getting Started Guide. In the event of these backups being incomplete, lost, or damaged, Dell will be unable to assist in the recovery of encrypted data.

  • Page 66: Computer Tracking Software

    If possible, give the name of the investigating officer. The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the computer Service Tag and record the computer as missing or stolen. If someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives your Service Tag, the computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen.

  • Page 67: System Setup Program

     System security and hard-drive password settings NOTE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do not change the system setup settings. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly.  Viewing the System Setup Screens  ...

  • Page 68: Performing A One-Time Boot

    Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit the system setup program.   Performing a One-Time Boot You can set a one-time-only boot sequence without entering the system setup program. (You can also use this procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.)  ...

  • Page 69: Reinstalling Software

    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. NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities media may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your computer.

  • Page 70: Using The Drivers And Utilities Media

    Microsoft Windows XP (with service pack 2 and later) does not require a system driver installation order. However, the following order preference works best. NOTE: The list below is a general overview of Dell desktop and portable systems. Actual system configurations may vary.  Desktop System Software (DSS) or Notebook System Software (NSS) - A compilation of critical Microsoft updates.

  • Page 71: Using The Hardware Troubleshooter Tool

      4. At the welcome screen, click Next and wait for the media to complete the hardware scan.   5. To detect other drivers and utilities, under Search Criteria, select the appropriate categories from the System Model, Operating System, and Topic drop-down menus.

  • Page 72: Restoring Your Operating System

    Any changes that System Restore makes to your computer are completely reversible. 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 apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the  Windows Classic view.   Starting 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 73: Using The Operating System Media

    The Dell Drivers and Utilities media contains drivers that were installed during the assembly of the computer. Use the Dell Drivers and Utilities media to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from which you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the media, the Dell Drivers and Utilities media and Operating System media may not ship with your computer.
  • Page 74 The Operating System media provides options for reinstalling Windows XP or Windows Vista. The options can overwrite files and possibly affect programs that are installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP or Windows Vista unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.

  • Page 75: Specifications

    Back to Contents Page   Specifications Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, click Start® Help and Support and select the option to view information about your computer.   Processor  Processor type Intel®...
  • Page 76   Ports and Connectors  Serial 9-pin connector; 16550C-compatible, 16-byte buffer connector Audio microphone connector, stereo headphone/speakers connector Mini-Card two Type IIIA Mini-Card slots Modem RJ-11 port Network adapter RJ-45 port four 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors Video 15-hole connector IEEE 1394 4-pin mini D-Dock standard D-Dock connector for devices such as D- Dock advanced port replicators and expansion...
  • Page 77 Pixel pitch 0.2109 Power Consumption (panel with backlight) (typical) 7.5 W (max) with no inverter losses   Keyboard  Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe); 91 (Japan) Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji   Touch Pad  X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) 240 cpi Size:   Width 73.0-mm (2.9-inch) sensor-active area Height 42.9-mm (1.7-inch) rectangle  ...
  • Page 78 Dimensions:   Height 32 mm (1.27 inches) Width 337 mm (13.31 inches) Depth 238 mm (9.3 inches) Temperature range:   Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F)  Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)   Fingerprint Reader (optional) Type UPEK TCS3 TouchStrip™ strip sensor with CMOS  active capacitive pixel-sensing technology   Physical  Height 32.3 mm (1.27 inches) Width 337 mm (13.3 inches) Depth...
  • Page 79 STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency. 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.

  • Page 80: Transferring Information To A New Computer

    Back to Contents Page   Transferring Information to a New Computer Dell Precision™ M2300 User's Guide   Microsoft® Windows® XP   Microsoft Windows Vista®  You can use your operating system wizards to help you transfer files and other data from one computer another. For instructions, see the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is running.

  • Page 81: Running The Files And Settings Transfer Wizard Without The Operating System Media

    8. Click Finish. To transfer data to the new computer:   1. On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next.   2. On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next. The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer.

  • Page 82: Microsoft Windows Vista

    NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search support.dell.com for document #PA1089586 (How Do I Transfer Files From My Old Computer to ® ® My New Dell Computer Using the Microsoft Windows XP Operating System?). NOTE: Access to the Dell™ Knowledge Base document may not be available in some countries.  Microsoft Windows Vista® ...

  • Page 83: Traveling With Your Computer

     Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case. Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell.  Create a file on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop called if_found. Place information such as your name, address, and phone number in this file.
  • Page 84  Prior to entering the airplane, verify that using a computer is permitted. Some airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during flight. All airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during takeoff and landing. Back to Contents Page  ...

  • Page 85: Troubleshooting

    For troubleshooting specific to the Microsoft Windows Vista® operating system, see the Help and Support Center.  Dell™ Technical Update Service  The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications.

  • Page 86: Starting The Dell Diagnostics From The Drivers And Utilities Media

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

  • Page 87: Accessing The Dell Support Utility

    4. When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media, remove the media.   5. When the tests are complete, 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 88: Media Drive Problems

    Ensure that the CD is snapped onto the spindle.   Check the cable connections.   Check for hardware incompatibilities.   Run the Dell Diagnostics — Dell Diagnostics.   Media drive problems NOTE: High-speed media drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the media.

  • Page 89: Hard Drive Problems

    Hard drive problems   Allow the computer to cool before turning it on — A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.   Run Check Disk —  ...

  • Page 90: Error Messages

    Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.
  • Page 91 Installing a PC Card or ExpressCard).   Extended memory size has changed — The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not match the memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell (see Obtaining Assistance).
  • Page 92 Obtaining Assistance).   No timer tick interrupt — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).   Not enough memory or resources. Exit some programs and try again —...
  • Page 93 Dell Diagnostics).   Unexpected interrupt in protected mode — The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or a memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).  ...

  • Page 94: Ieee 1394 Device Problems

    Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

  • Page 95: Lockups And Software Problems

      5. Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display. If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see Obtaining Assistance).

  • Page 96: Memory Problems

    Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.

  • Page 97: Network Problems

      Cannot connect — The Dell Mobile Broadband Card must be activated on the network in order to connect. Once the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility has been launched, position the mouse over the icon in the taskbar to read the status of the connection. If the status indicates the mobile broadband card is not activated, Activate your Mobile Broadband card for more information.

  • Page 98: Pc Card Problems

     No card detected – Restart the computer and launch the utility again.  Radio Off – Ensure the Mobile Broadband card is enabled by viewing the status in the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility. If the card is disabled, enable the Mobile Broadband card by clicking the Turn Radio On button in the main screen of the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility.

  • Page 99: Ensuring Sufficient Power For Your Computer

    Ensure that the AC adapter is connected to your computer when the computer is docked to the Dell D/Dock.   Docking While the Computer Is Running If a computer is connected to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port while the computer is running, presence of the docking device is ignored until the AC adapter is...

  • Page 100: Printer Problems

      AC Power Loss While the Computer Is Docked If a computer loses AC power while docked to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port, the computer immediately goes into low-performance mode.  Printer Problems Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see Diagnostics Checklist) as you complete these checks.

  • Page 101: Sound And Speaker Problems

     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 Start® Control Panel® Printers and Other Hardware.  ...

  • Page 102: No Sound From Headphones

    Reinstall the audio driver — Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities.   Run the Dell Diagnostics — Dell Diagnostics. 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.

  • Page 103: Video And Display Problems

    Test the mouse controller — To test the mouse controller (which affects pointer movement) and the operation of the touch pad or mouse buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).

  • Page 104: If Only Part Of The Display Is Readable

    Run the Video diagnostics tests — If no error message appears and you still have a display problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the Dell Diagnostics. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see Obtaining Assistance).

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