Page 1 Dell™ Dimension™ 8400 CD or DVD drive eject button floppy drive eject button* floppy drive light* USB 2.0 hard drive light connectors (2) power button headphone connector *On computers with a Service Tag floppy drive. power connector parallel connector voltage selection switch...
Page 2 Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault, PowerApp, DellNet, PowerConnect, and Axim are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Contents ......Finding Information Setting Up and Using Your Computer Setting Up a Printer .
Page 4 Power Management ......Overview ....... Standby Mode .
Page 5 Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore ... . . Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec ....
Page 6 Inside Your Computer ......System Board Components ......Memory .
Page 7 ......Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) ....
Page 8 Contents...
Page 9: Finding Information
Finding Information What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • Warranty information Dell™ Product Information Guide • Safety instructions • Regulatory information • Ergonomics information • End User License Agreement • How to set up my computer Setup Diagram...
Page 10 Select your region to view the appropriate support site. • Online discussions with other users and technical support The Dell Support website provides several online tools, • Documentation for my computer including: • Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online courses •...
Page 11: Setting Up And Using Your Computer
Setting Up and Using Your Computer Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer. See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to: • Obtain and install updated drivers. •...
Page 12: Connecting A Usb Printer
Connecting a USB Printer NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on. Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so. Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer. Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer.
Page 13: Connecting A Parallel Printer
Connecting a Parallel Printer Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so. Turn off the computer (see page 63). NOTICE: For best results, use a 3-m (10-ft) or shorter parallel cable. Attach the parallel printer cable to the parallel connector on the computer and tighten the two screws.
Page 14: Setting Up Your Internet Connection
• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same line simultaneously. • Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line.
Page 15: Playing Cds Or Dvds
If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 37. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.
Page 16 A CD player includes the following basic buttons: Play. Move backward within the current track. Pause. Move forward within the current track. Stop. Go to the previous track. Eject. Go to the next track. A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: Stop.
Page 17: Adjusting The Volume
DVD/CD-RW combo drive. NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country. 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 18: Using Blank Cd-Rs And Cd-Rws
Currently, five DVD-writable disc formats are available: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM. The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to DVD+R and DVD+RW media, and can read DVD-R and DVD-RW media. However, DVD-writable drives do not write to and might not read DVD-RAM media. In addition, commercially available DVD players for home theater systems might not read all five formats.
Page 19: Connecting Two Monitors
• You must use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos. • You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic RecordNow. • Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.
Page 20: Connecting One Monitor With A Vga Connector And One Monitor With A Dvi Connector
Connect the other monitor to the optional DVI adapter and connect the DVI adapter to the DVI (white) connector on the back of the computer. optional DVI adapter DVI (white) connector TV-OUT connector VGA (blue) connector Connecting One Monitor With a VGA connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin"...
Page 21: Changing The Display Settings
This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration that you might have selected when you purchased your computer. Although several RAID configurations are available, Dell offers either RAID level 0 or RAID level 1 for its Dimension computers. A RAID level 0 configuration is recommended for high-performance gaming, and a RAID level 1 configuration is recommended for the data integrity requirements of digital photography and audio.
Page 22: Raid Level 0
RAID Level 0 RAID level 0 uses a storage technique known as "data striping" to provide a high data access rate. Data striping is a method of writing consecutive segments, or stripes, of data sequentially across the physical drives to create a large virtual drive. Data striping allows one of the drives to read data while the other drive is searching for and reading the next block.
Page 23: Raid Level 1
RAID Level 1 RAID level 1 uses a data-redundancy storage technique known as "mirroring." When data is written to the primary drive, it is then duplicated, or mirrored, on the other drive. A RAID level 1 configuration sacrifices high data access rates for its data redundancy advantages. serial ATA RAID configured for RAID level 1...
Page 24: Configuring For Raid Using The Intel(R) Option Rom Utility
Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode Enter system setup (see page 114). Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Drives, and press <Enter>. Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Drive Controller, and press <Enter>. Use the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight RAID On, press <Enter>, and then press <Esc>.
Page 25 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select Exit, and press <Enter>. Install the operating system. Creating a RAID Level 1 Configuration Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see page 24). Press <Ctrl><i> when you are prompted to enter Intel RAID Option ROM. Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Create RAID Volume, and press <Enter>.
Page 26: Configuring For Raid Using The Intel(R) Application Accelerator
Configuring for RAID Using the Intel(R) Application Accelerator If you already have one hard drive with the operating system installed on it, and you want to add a second hard drive and reconfigure both drives into a RAID volume without losing the existing operating system and any data, you need to use the migrating option (see "Migrating to a RAID 0 Volume"...
Page 27 On the Select Volume Location screen, click the first hard drive you want to use to create your RAID 0 volume, and then click the right arrow. Click a second hard drive until two drives appear in the Selected window, and then click Next. In the Specify Volume Size window, select the Volume Size desired and click Next.
Page 28 On the Select Source Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive from which you want to migrate, and click Next. On the Select Member Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive to select the member drive to span the stripe array, and click Next. On the Specify Volume Size screen, select the Volume Size you want, and click Next.
Page 29: Setting Up A Home And Office Network
Creating a Spare Hard Drive A spare hard drive may be created with a RAID 1 array. The spare hard drive will not be recognized by the operating system, but you will be able to see the spare drive from within Disk Manager or the Intel Option ROM Utility.
Page 30: Network Setup Wizard
Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device. network device network adapter connector network adapter connector on computer network cable Network Setup Wizard ® ® The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet connection between computers in a home or small office.
Page 31: Standby Mode
Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you. If the computer’s hard drive becomes corrupted, Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.
Page 32: Power Options Properties
Power Options Properties Define your standby mode settings, hibernate mode settings, and other power settings in the Power Options Properties window. To access the Power Options Properties window: Click the Start button and click Control Panel. Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance. Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options.
Page 33: Hyper-Threading
You can enable or disable Hyper-Threading through system setup. For more information on accessing system setup, see page 113. For more information on Hyper-Threading, search the Knowledge Base on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. Setting Up and Using Your Computer...
Page 34 Setting Up and Using Your Computer...
Page 35: Solving Problems
— If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see page 106). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see page 125). Card Fan Problems...
Page 36: Drive Problems
Drive Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. ® ® N S U R E T H A T I C R O S O F 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 —...
Page 37: Hard Drive Problems
Problems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive L O S E O T H E R P R O G R A M S — The CD/DVD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the CD/DVD-RW.
Page 38: Error Messages
H E C K T H E T E L E P H O N E L I N E C O N N E C T I O N — H E C K T H E T E L E P H O N E J A C K —...
Page 39: Ieee 1394 Device Problems
If so, run the program that you want to use first. P E R A T I N G S YS T E M N O T F O U N D — Contact Dell (see page 125). IEEE 1394 Device Problems...
Page 40: Keyboard Problems
D E V I C E IEEE 1394 — Contact Dell (see page 125). F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A N O N E L L...
Page 41: The Computer Stops Responding
The computer stops responding NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. U R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off.
Page 42: Other Software Problems
• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (see page 77). • Reseat the memory modules (see page 76) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory. • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 55). Solving Problems...
Page 43: Mouse Problems
• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see page 77). • Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 109. • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 55). Mouse Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
Page 44: Network Problems
E I N S T A L L T H E M O U S E D R I V E R — See page 57. U N T H E A R D W A R E R O U B L E S H O O T E R —...
Page 45: Printer Problems
F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S O F F — The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power. • Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.
Page 46: Scanner Problems
H E C K T H E P R I N T E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N S — • See the printer documentation for cable connection information. •...
Page 47: 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 I C R O S O F T I N D O W S —...
Page 48: No Sound From Headphones
U N T H E S P E A K E R D I A G N O S T I C S E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D D R I V E R —...
Page 49: If The Screen Is Difficult To Read
E S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. H E C K T H E D I A G N O S T I C L I G H T S —...
Page 50 Solving Problems...
Page 51: Advanced Troubleshooting
A B C D A possible processor failure has Contact Dell (see page 125). occurred. A B C D = yellow = green = off...
Page 52 • If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see page 77). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 125). A possible graphics card failure has • If the computer has a graphics card, occurred.
Page 53 • If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see page 77). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 125). Memory modules are detected, but a • Ensure that no special memory...
Page 54 (see page 113) to make sure the boot sequence is correct for the devices installed on your computer. • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see page 125). = yellow = green = off...
Page 55: Dell Diagnostics
When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see page 55). Dell Diagnostics Main Menu After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want. Function...
Page 56 If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see page 125). 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.
Page 57: Drivers
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.
Page 58: Restoring Your Operating System
• Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications installed after you received the computer.
Page 59: Using Microsoft Windows Xp System Restore
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not work if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view. Creating a Restore Point Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
Page 60: Using Dell Pc Restore By Symantec
Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system. PC Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer.
Page 61: 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 62 Advanced Troubleshooting...
Page 63: Removing And Installing Parts
You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" (see page 63) and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" (see page 64). • You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide. • A component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.
Page 64: Before Working Inside Your Computer
NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself.
Page 65: Front View
Front View *On computers with a floppy drive. CD or DVD drive eject Press to eject a disc from the CD or DVD drive. button floppy-drive eject button Press to eject a floppy disk from the floppy drive. (On computers with an optional floppy drive.) floppy-drive activity light The floppy drive light is on when the computer reads data from or writes data to the floppy drive.
Page 66 To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the computer. Instead, perform an operating system shutdown. Service Tag Used to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call technical support. headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones and most kinds of speakers.
Page 67: Back View
Back View *Not present on all computers. power connector Insert the power cable. voltage selection switch (may See the safety instructions located in the Product Information not be available on all Guide for more information. computers) parallel connector Connect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel connector.
Page 68 surround connector Use the black surround connector to attach multichannel-capable speakers. On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card. line-in connector Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a cassette player, CD player, or VCR. On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
Page 69: Front-Panel Door And Hinge Arms
network adapter To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a connector network cable to either a network jack or your network or broadband device. Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on your computer.
Page 70 Remove the front-panel insert above the door bay area by pulling the bottom of the insert with your fingers. front-panel insert use fingers to pull here Lift both hinge arms to the horizontal position. Use the two view slots to align the pivot bar with the two pivot-bar slots. Removing and Installing Parts...
Page 71 pivot-bar slots (2) view slots (2) pivot bar hinge arms (2) in horizontal position 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 72: Reattaching The Front Door
Reattaching the Front Door CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63. Disconnect the computer power cable from the electrical outlet. Lower the hinge arms to the vertical position.
Page 73: Opening The Computer Cover
Opening the Computer Cover CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin"...
Page 74: Inside Your Computer
Inside Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63. floppy drive* hard drive CD/DVD drive power supply system board * On computers with...
Page 75: System Board Components
System Board Components hard-drive activity light for add-in SATA connectors (SATA-O, password cards (SCSI LED) SATA-1, SATA-2, SATA-3) jumper (PASS) IDE drive connector (PRI IDE) front-panel connector (FRONT floppy drive PANEL) connector (FLOPPY) internal speaker (SPKR) standby power card fan connector light (AUX_PWR) (PCI FAN) main power...
Page 76: Memory
Memory You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For additional information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 109. DDR2 Memory Overview DDR2 memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology.
Page 77: Addressing Memory With 4-Gb Configurations
Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in DIMM connectors 1 and 2 or DIMM connectors 3 and 4.
Page 78 Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector. memory connector closest to processor securing clips (2) connector Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector. notch memory module cutouts (2) crossbar NOTICE:...
Page 79: Removing Memory
Close the computer cover. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. Right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties. Click the General tab.
Page 80: Pci Cards
Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards: • Three PCI card slots • One PCI Express x16 card slot • One PCI Express x1 card slot PCI Cards If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a PCI card, see "Removing a PCI Card"...
Page 81 If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 5. 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. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.
Page 82 Press the retention arm into place, securing the card(s) in the computer. retention arm alignment guide alignment bar filler bracket NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment. Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
Page 83 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 125). NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the computer.
Page 84: Pci Express Cards
If a card fan is not present in your computer and you are installing a graphics card that runs at 75 W or higher, contact Dell (see page 125) to find out how to purchase a card fan. PCI Express...
Page 85 Installing a PCI Express Card Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63. Press the lever on the card retention arm and raise the retention arm. top of retention mechanism lever retention x16 card securing slot securing tab edge connector filler bracket card connector...
Page 86 If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue with step 5. 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. If your card includes a retention mechanism, remove the top of the retention mechanism by pressing the tab and pulling up on the top.
Page 87 If a card fan is not present in your computer and you are installing a graphics card that runs higher than 75 W, contact Dell (see page 125) to find out how to purchase a card fan. If you installed a PCI Express graphics card that runs at 75 W or higher, install the card fan (see page 89).
Page 88 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 125). NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the computer.
Page 89: Card Fan
Otherwise, your card could overheat and damage your computer. If a card fan is not present in your computer and you are installing a graphics card that runs at 75 W or higher, contact Dell (see page 125) to find out how to purchase a card fan. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
Page 90 CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63. If spare drive rails are installed on the inside of the computer cover, remove them by gently pulling the rails up and out.
Page 91 Slide the card fan bracket onto the hooks on the inside of the computer cover. Press the top edge of the card fan bracket toward the computer cover until it clicks. top edge of card fan bracket card fan bracket cabling slot card fan cable card fan connector...
Page 92: Drives
Drives Your computer supports a combination of these devices: • Up to two hard drives • One optional floppy drive • One optional Zip drive • Up to two CD or DVD drives General Installation Guidelines Connect serial ATA hard drives to the system board connectors labeled SATA-0, SATA-1, SATA-2, or SATA-3.
Page 93: Hard Drive
Most interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector. When you connect an IDE cable, ensure that you align the colored stripe with the pin 1 connector. When you disconnect an IDE cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector detaches.
Page 94: Removing A Hard Drive
Removing a Hard Drive Disconnect the power and data cable from the drive and from the system board. Press in on the tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out. tabs (2) hard drive Removing and Installing Parts...
Page 95: Installing A Hard Drive
Installing a Hard Drive Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation. Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer. If your replacement hard drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive.
Page 96: Adding A Second Hard Drive
Partition and logically format your drive before you proceed to the next step. See the documentation for your operating system for instructions. Test the hard drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 55). If the drive you just installed is the primary drive, install your operating system on the hard drive.
Page 97 Gently slide the first hard drive into the lower bay until you hear a click. Reconnect the power and data cable to the back of the first hard drive. Gently slide the new hard drive into the upper bay until you hear a click. rail tabs (2) second hard drive in upper bay...
Page 98: Front-Panel Inserts
Front-Panel Inserts If you are installing a new floppy or CD/DVD drive instead of replacing a drive, remove the front- panel inserts. Open the cover to a 90-degree angle. Locate the insert that is in front of the drive bay that you want to use. From inside the computer, press in the release tab of the insert.
Page 99 Slightly press the right-side insert release tab and gently push in the insert. If you are adding a floppy drive and you purchased the drive from Dell, you received a front panel insert in your floppy drive kit. Attach this insert over the front of the drive bay.
Page 100: Floppy Drive
If you are adding a floppy drive that was not purchased from Dell, reattach the empty insert frame over the front of the drive bay. Floppy Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
Page 101: Installing A Floppy Drive
Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive, slide the drive upward, and then remove it from the floppy-drive bay. Installing a Floppy Drive If you are replacing a drive and the new drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive.
Page 102: Cd/Dvd Drive
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation. Enter system setup (see page 113) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive option. Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 55). CD/DVD Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
Page 103 power cable data cable Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive, and then slide the drive upward and remove it from the drive bay. Removing and Installing Parts...
Page 104: Installing A Cd/Dvd Drive
Connect the new drive to the set of rails that are attached to the inside of the cover. If a set of rails is not attached inside the cover, contact Dell (see page 125). If you are installing a replacement drive and the new drive does not have the bracket rails attached, remove the rails from the old drive by removing the two screws that secure each rail to the drive.
Page 105 See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation. Enter system setup (see page 113) and select the appropriate Drive option. Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see page 55). Removing and Installing Parts...
Page 106: Battery
Battery Replacing the Battery CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
Page 107: Closing The Computer Cover
battery battery socket Close the computer cover (see page 107). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. Enter system setup (see page 113) and restore the settings you recorded in step 1.
Page 108 NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. Removing and Installing Parts...
Page 109: Appendix
Appendix Specifications Processor ® ® Processor type Intel Pentium 4 with HT Technology NOTE: Not all Pentium 4 processors support Hyper-Threading technology. Cache 512 KB, 1 MB, or 2 MB Memory Type 400- and 533-MHz DDR2 unbuffered SDRAM Memory connectors four Memory capacities 256 MB, 512 MB, or 1 GB, non-ECC...
Page 110 Audio Type ADI 1980 AC97 Codec NOTE: This audio type is present only on computers with integrated sound capabilities. Expansion Bus Bus type PCI 2.3 PCI Express x1 and x16 Bus speed PCI: 33 MHz PCI Express: x1 slot bidirectional speed - 500 MB/s x16 slot bidirectional speed - 8 GB/s connectors three...
Page 111 Drives Externally accessible: two 3.5-inch drive bays two 5.25-inch drive bays Available devices Serial ATA drive, floppy drive, Zip drive, USB memory devices, CD drive, CD-RW drive, DVD drive, DVD-RW drive, and DVD and CD-RW combo drive Internally accessible: two bays for 1-inch high hard drives Connectors External connectors: Serial...
Page 112 Controls and Lights Power control push button Power light green light — Blinking green in sleep state; solid green for power-on state. amber light — Blinking amber indicates a problem with an installed device; solid amber indicates an internal power problem (see "Power Problems"...
Page 113: System Setup
Environmental Temperature: Operating 10° to 35°C (50° to 95°F) NOTE: At 35°C (95°F), the maximum operating altitude is 914 m (3000 ft). Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Relative humidity 20% to 80% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration: Operating 0.25 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 0.5 octave/min Storage 0.5 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1 octave/min Maximum shock:...
Page 114: Entering System Setup
Entering System Setup 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 desktop.
Page 115: System Setup Options
System Setup Options NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not appear, or may not appear exactly as listed. System Lists system information such as the computer name, the BIOS version System Info number and date, system tags, and other system-specific information.
Page 116 Identifies and defines the parallel port settings. You can set the parallel port LPT Port Mode to Off, AT, PS/2, EPP , or ECP . Identifies the address for the parallel port. LPT Port Address Identifies and defines the parallel port DMA settings. You can set the LPT Port DMA parallel port DMA to Off, DMA1, or DMA3.
Page 117 Auto Power On Sets the computer to automatically turn on. Choices are every day or every Monday through Friday. The default setting is Off. This feature does not work if you turn off your computer using a power strip or surge protector. Sets time to automatically turn on the computer.
Page 118: Boot Sequence
This option allows you to specify the function keys to display on the screen POST Hotkeys when the computer starts. This option disables or enables keyboard error reporting when the computer Keyboard Errors starts. Boot Sequence This feature allows you to change the boot sequence for devices. Option Settings •...
Page 119 At the bottom of the menu, enter the number of the device that is to be used for the current boot only. For example, if you are booting to a USB memory key, highlight USB Flash Device and press <Enter>. NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable.
Page 120: Clearing Forgotten Passwords
Clearing Forgotten Passwords CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 63. PASS CLR CMOS (page 121) Locate the 3-pin password jumper (PASS) on the system board (see page 75), and attach the jumper plug to pins 2 and 3 to clear the password.
Page 121: Clearing Cmos Settings
Close the computer cover (see page 107). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on. Clearing CMOS Settings CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions...
Page 122: Mouse
Technician-assisted technical support requires the cooperation and participation of the customer in the troubleshooting process and provides for restoration of the operating system, software programs, and hardware drivers to the original default configuration as shipped from Dell, as well as Appendix...
Page 123: Definition Of "Dell-Installed" Software And Peripherals
Third-party software and peripherals include any peripheral, accessory, or software program sold by Dell not under the Dell brand (printers, scanners, cameras, games, and so on). Support for all third- party software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer of the product.
Page 124: Class A
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference. • This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Class A This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Page 125: Fcc Identification Information
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 126 0-810-444-3355 Sales toll-free: 800-1578 Aruba General Support Australia (Sydney) E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com International Access Code: 0011 E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com 1-300-655-533 Country Code: 61 Home and Small Business toll-free: 1-800-633-559 City Code: 2 Government and Business toll-free: 1-800-060-889 Preferred Accounts Division (PAD)
Page 127 604 633 4949 Country Code: 673 Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4955 Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia) Canada (North York, Ontario) Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus toll-free: 1-800-247-9362 International Access Code: 011 AutoTech (automated technical support) toll-free: 1-800-847-4096 Customer Care (Home Sales/Small Business) toll-free: 1-800-326-9463 Customer Care (med./large business, government)
Page 128 1230-020-4823 Chile (Santiago) Sales, Customer Support, and Technical Support Country Code: 56 City Code: 2 China (Xiamen) Technical Support website: support.dell.com.cn Country Code: 86 Technical Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.com City Code: 592 Customer Care E-mail: customer_cn@dell.com 818 1350 Technical Support Fax toll-free: 800 858 2969 Technical Support (Dimension™...
Page 129 Area Codes, International Access Code Website and E-Mail Address Local Numbers, and Country Code Toll-Free Numbers City Code Czech Republic (Prague) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com 22537 2727 Country Code: 420 Technical Support 22537 2707 Customer Care...
Page 130 International Access Code Website and E-Mail Address Local Numbers, and Country Code Toll-Free Numbers City Code France (Paris) (Montpellier) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/ Country Code: 33 Home and Small Business 0825 387 270 City Codes: (1) (4)
Page 131 International Access Code: 001 Technical Support E-mail: apsupport@dell.com 2969 3188 Country Code: 852 Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron) 2969 3191 Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision) 2969 3196 Technical Support (PowerApp™, PowerEdge™, PowerConnect™, and PowerVault™) 3416 0910 Customer Care...
Page 132 International Access Code Website and E-Mail Address Local Numbers, and Country Code Toll-Free Numbers City Code Ireland (Cherrywood) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 16 E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com 1850 543 543 Country Code: 353 Technical Support 0870 908 0800 City Code: 1 U.K.
Page 133 Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and Inspiron) toll-free:0120-198-433 Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) 81-44-556-3894 Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) toll-free: 0120-981-690 Technical Support (PDAs, projectors, printers, routers) 81-44-556-3468 Technical Support outside of Japan (PDAs,...
Page 134 Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China) toll-free: 1 800 88 0193 Malaysia (Penang) Website: support.ap.dell.com toll-free: 1 800 88 1306 International Access Code: 00 Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) Country Code: 60 Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and City Code: 4 Electronics and Accessories)
Page 135 Relational Sales Fax 020 674 50 00 Switchboard 020 674 47 50 Switchboard Fax New Zealand E-mail (New Zealand): nz_tech_support@dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail (Australia): au_tech_support@dell.com toll-free: 0800 446 255 Country Code: 64 Technical Support (for desktop and portable...
Page 136 Area Codes, International Access Code Website and E-Mail Address Local Numbers, and Country Code Toll-Free Numbers City Code Norway (Lysaker) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: http://support.euro.dell.com/no/no/emaildell/ Country Code: 47 671 16882 Technical Support 671 17575 Relational Customer Care...
Page 137 International Access Code: 005 Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and Electronics and Accessories) Country Code: 65 toll-free: 1800 394 7488 Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision) toll-free: 1800 394 7478 Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) 604 633 4949...
Page 138 International Access Code Website and E-Mail Address Local Numbers, and Country Code Toll-Free Numbers City Code Spain (Madrid) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/es/es/emaildell/ Country Code: 34 Home and Small Business 902 100 130 City Code: 91 Technical Support...
Page 139 00801 651 227 Corporate Sales Thailand Website: support.ap.dell.com toll-free: 1800 0060 07 International Access Code: 001 Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision) Country Code: 66 toll-free: 1800 0600 09 Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) 604 633 4949...
Page 140 Local Numbers, and Country Code Toll-Free Numbers 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 0870 908 0500 Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees]) 0870 908 0800...
Page 141 1-800-671-3355 Software and Peripherals Sales toll-free: 1-800-357-3355 Spare Parts Sales toll-free: 1-800-247-4618 Extended Service and Warranty Sales toll-free: 1-800-727-8320 toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or Speech-Impaired (1-877-335-5889) 1-877-673-3355 U.S. Virgin Islands General Support 8001-3605 Venezuela General Support...
Page 142 Appendix...
Page 143: Index
Dell installing PCI, 80 state, 58 contacting, 125 installing PCI Express, 85 stops responding, 40-41 Dell Diagnostics, 55 PCI, 80 connectors support policy, 121 PCI Express, 84 center/LFE, 68-69 support site, 10 PCI Express card fan, 89...
Page 144 96 Finding Information, 9 problems, 37 online, 10 removing, 94 Product Information Guide, 9 hardware regulatory, 9 Dell Diagnostics, 55 e-mail safety, 9 drives, RAID configuration, 21 problems, 37 Setup Diagram, 9 Hardware Troubleshooter, 61 End User License...
Page 145 monitor PC Restore, 60 blank, 48 PCI cards keyboard clone mode, 21 installing, 80 connector, 69 connect DVI, 19-20 removing, 83 problems, 40 connect TV, 19-20 PCI Express cards connect two, 19-20 card fan, 89 connect VGA, 19-20 installing, 85 display settings, 21 removing, 88 labels...
Page 146 40-41 volume adjusting, 47 line-in, 68 computer stops line-out, 69 Product Information Guide, 9 responding, 40-41 surround, 68 Program Compatibility Dell Diagnostics, 55 speaker Wizard, 41 diagnostic lights, 51 problems, 47 drives, 36 volume, 47 DVD drive, 36 specifications...
Page 147 47 policy, 121 transferring information to a new computer, 29 troubleshooting warranty information, 9 Dell Diagnostics, 55 diagnostic lights, 51 Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter, 61 Device Driver Rollback, 58 Help and Support Center, 10 Files and Settings Transfer...
Page 148 Index...

Dell DIMENSION 8400 Manual

1 Setting up and Using Your Computer

2 Solving Problems

3 Advanced Troubleshooting

4 Removing and Installing Parts

5 Appendix

Index

Quick Links

Troubleshooting

Related Manuals for Dell DIMENSION 8400

Summary of Contents for Dell DIMENSION 8400

Table of Contents