Dell INSPIRON 530 DCMF Owner's Manual
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Dell INSPIRON 530 DCMF Owner's Manual

Dell INSPIRON 530 DCMF Owner's Manual

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Dell™ Inspiron™ 530 Owner's Manual
Model DCMF
w w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m

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Summary of Contents for Dell INSPIRON 530 DCMF

  • Page 1 Dell™ Inspiron™ 530 Owner’s Manual Model DCMF w w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m...

  • Page 2: Abbreviations And Acronyms

    Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Yours Is Here, and Inspiron are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license;...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Finding Information ....Setting Up and Using Your Computer . . . Front View of the Computer ....Back View of the Computer .
  • Page 4 Connecting Two Monitors ....Connecting Two Monitors With VGA Connectors ....Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector...
  • Page 5 Setting Up a Home and Office Network ..Connecting to a Network Adapter ..Setting Up a Network in the ® ® Microsoft Windows Operating System .
  • Page 6 Dell Diagnostics ..... When to Use the Dell Diagnostics ..Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive .
  • Page 7 Click the System Restore tab and ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked..Using Dell PC Restore and Dell Factory Image Restore ... . .
  • Page 8 Cards ......PCI and PCI Express Cards ... . Bezel .
  • Page 9 Processor ......Removing the Processor ....Installing the Processor .
  • Page 10 Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) ..Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals ... . . Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals ... . .

  • Page 11: Finding Information

    NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer. What Are You Looking For? Find it Here • Warranty information Dell™ Product Information Guide • Terms and Conditions (U.S. only) • Safety instructions • Regulatory information • Ergonomics information • End User License Agreement •...
  • Page 12 Corporate, government, and • Community — Online discussion with education customers can also use the other Dell customers customized Dell Premier Support website at • Upgrades — Upgrade information for premier.support.dell.com. components, such as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system •...
  • Page 13 Dell Click Desktop System Software under computer. The software automatically Dell - Utility, and click Download Now. detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates Click Run to run the driver, or Save to appropriate for your configuration.
  • Page 14 Finding Information...

  • Page 15: Setting Up And Using Your Computer

    Setting Up and Using Your Computer Front View of the Computer Setting Up and Using Your Computer...
  • Page 16 Service Tag (located on Use the Service Tag to identify your computer top of the chassis when you access the Dell Support website or call towards the rear) technical support. CD/DVD drive Use the CD/DVD drive for playing a CD/DVD.

  • Page 17: Back View Of The Computer

    power button, Press the power button to turn on the computer. power light The light in the center of this button indicates power state. See "Controls and Lights" on page 166 for more information. NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the power button to turn off the computer.

  • Page 18: Back Panel Connectors

    power connector Insert the power cable. voltage selector switch For selecting voltage rating. power supply LED Indicates power availability for power supply. back panel connectors Plug USB, audio, and other devices into the appropriate connector. See "Back Panel Connectors" on page 18 for more information. card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express cards.
  • Page 19 network activity Flashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting light or receiving network data. A high volume of network traffic may make this light appear to be in a steady "on" state. network adapter To attach your computer to a network or broadband connector device, connect one end of a network cable to either a network port or your network or broadband device.
  • Page 20 front L/R line-out Use the green line-out connector (available on computers connector with integrated sound) to attach headphones and most speakers with integrated amplifiers. On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card. microphone Use the pink connector to attach a personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

  • Page 21: Installing Your Computer In An Enclosure

    Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure Installing your computer in an enclosure can restrict the airflow and impact your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat. Follow the guidelines below when installing your computer in an enclosure: NOTICE: The operating temperature specifications indicated in this Owner’s Manual reflects the maximum ambient operating temperature.
  • Page 22 • Do not install your computer in an enclosure that does not allow airflow. Restricting the airflow impacts your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat. Setting Up and Using Your Computer...

  • Page 23: Setting Up A Printer

    Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer. See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to: • Obtain and install updated drivers. • Connect the printer to the computer. •...
  • Page 24 1 USB connector on 2 USB connector on 3 USB printer computer printer cable 3 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. 4 Depending on your computer’s operating system, a printer wizard may be available to help you install the printer driver: ®...

  • Page 25: Playing Cds And Dvds

    Playing CDs and DVDs NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs. 1 Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

  • Page 26: Adjusting The Volume

    A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: Stop Restart the current chapter Play Fast forward Pause Fast reverse Advance a single frame while in pause mode Go to the next title or chapter Continuously play the current title or chapter Go to the previous title or chapter Eject For more information on playing CDs or DVDs, click Help on the CD or...

  • Page 27: Adjusting The Picture

    CD-RW/DVD (combo) drive. NOTE: The types of CD or DVD drives offered by Dell may vary by country. The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic DigitalMedia for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data.

  • Page 28: How To Copy A Cd Or Dvd

    CD-RW/DVD combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at www.sonic.com. The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to and read DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.

  • Page 29: Helpful Tips

    Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process.

  • Page 30: Using A Media Card Reader (Optional)

    • Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may not support all available DVD formats. For a list of formats supported by your DVD player, see the documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer. • Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity;...
  • Page 31 xD-Picture Card and CompactFlash Type I and II (CF I/II) SmartMedia (SMC) and MicroDrive Card Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro) SecureDigital Card (SD)/ MultiMediaCard (MMC) To use the Media Card Reader: 1 Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion. 2 Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector.

  • Page 32: Connecting Two Monitors

    Connecting Two Monitors CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. If you purchased a graphics card that supports dual monitors, follow these instructions to connect and enable your monitors. The instructions tell you how to connect either two monitors (each with a VGA connector), one monitor with a VGA connector and one monitor with a DVI connector, or a TV.

  • Page 33: Connecting One Monitor With A Vga Connector And One Monitor With A Dvi Connector

    *May not be present on your computer 1 optional DVI adapter 2 DVI (white) connector 3 TV-OUT connector 4 VGA (blue) connector Connecting One Monitor With a VGA Connector and One Monitor With a DVI Connector 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 99. 2 Connect the VGA connector on the monitor to the VGA (blue) connector on the back of the computer.

  • Page 34: Changing The Display Settings

    3 Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector on your TV. 4 Connect the VGA or DVI monitor. Changing the Display Settings 1 After you connect the monitor(s) or TV, turn on the computer. ®...

  • Page 35: Hibernate 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 36: 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: 1 Click the Start button, then click Control Panel. 2 Define your power settings on the Power Schemes tab, Advanced tab, and Hibernate tab.

  • Page 37: Power Management Options In Windows Vista

    Advanced Tab The Advanced tab allows you to: • Place the power options icon in the Windows taskbar for quick access. • Set the computer to prompt you for your Windows password before the computer exits from standby mode or hibernate mode. •...

  • Page 38: Standby Mode

    Dell has added a fourth, Dell-Recommended mode that sets power management to the most typical settings for the majority of our customers. This is the active Power Plan. Standby Mode Standby mode is the default "off" state for Windows Vista. Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a time-out.

  • Page 39: Power Plan Properties

    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 Vista recreates the hibernate file automatically.

  • Page 40: Enabling Speedstep™ Technology

    Windows Vista automatically sets Intel Speedstep technologies in the Dell Recommended, Balanced, and Power Saver power plans. It is disabled in the High Performance power plan. Setting Up and Using Your Computer...

  • Page 41: About Raid Configurations

    About RAID Configurations This section provides an overview of the redundant array of independent disks (RAID) configuration you may have selected when you purchased your computer. Your computer supports RAID level 1. A RAID level 1 configuration is recommended for the data integrity requirements of digital photography and audio.

  • Page 42: Configuring Your Hard Drives For Raid

    If a drive failure occurs, subsequent read and write operations are directed to the surviving drive. A replacement drive can then be rebuilt using the data from the surviving drive. Also, because data is duplicated on both drives, two 120-GB RAID level 1 drives collectively have a maximum of 120-GB on which to store data.

  • Page 43: Configuring For Raid Using The Intel(R) Option Rom Utility

    Configuring for RAID Using the Intel(R) Option ROM Utility NOTE: Although any size drives may be used to create a RAID configuration using the Intel Option ROM utility, ideally the drives should be of equal size. In a RAID level 0 configuration, the size of the array will be the size of the smallest disk multiplied by the number (two) of disks in the array.

  • Page 44: Configuring For Raid Using The Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager

    Deleting a RAID Volume NOTE: When you perform this operation, all data on the RAID drives will be lost. NOTE: If your computer currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume in the Intel RAID Option ROM, your computer will become unbootable. 1 Press <Ctrl><i>...
  • Page 45 NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID- Enabled Mode" on page 42). 3 On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume to launch the Create RAID Volume Wizard.
  • Page 46 Migrating to a RAID 1 Volume 1 Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 42). 2 Click Start and point to All Programs→ Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager→ Intel Matrix Storage Console to launch the Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager.

  • Page 47: Transferring Information To A New Computer

    When a member of the RAID 1 array is broken, the computer automatically rebuilds the mirror array using the spare hard drive as the broken member’s replacement. To Mark a Drive as a Spare Hard Drive: 1 Click Start and point to All Programs→ Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager→...

  • Page 48: Microsoft ® Windows ® Xp

    ® ® Microsoft Windows The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data from a source computer to a new computer. You can transfer data, such as: • E-mail messages • Toolbar settings •...
  • Page 49 4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD→ Next. 5 When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do not click Next at this time. To copy data from the old computer: 1 On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System media.
  • Page 50 To create a wizard disk, use your new computer with Windows XP and perform the following steps: 1 Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→System Tools→ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. 2 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next.

  • Page 51: Windows Vista

    ® Computer To My New Dell™ Computer Using the Microsoft Windows Operating System?). NOTE: Access to the Dell™ Knowledge Base document may not be available in certain countries. Windows Vista™ The Windows Vista operating system provides the Windows Easy Transfer ™...

  • Page 52: Setting Up A Home And Office Network

    There are two ways to access the Easy Transfer wizard: 1 When Vista setup is completed, you will see the Vista Welcome Center. One icon in the Welcome Center is Transfer Files and Settings. Click this icon to start Windows easy Transfer. 2 If the Welcome Center dialog box has been closed, you can access Easy , →...

  • Page 53: Setting Up A Network In The Microsoft ® Windows ® Xp Operating System

    ® ® Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Operating System 1 Click Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications→ Network Setup Wizard→ Next→ Checklist for creating a network. NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2).

  • Page 54: Setting Up Your Internet Connection

    • Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable (or satellite) modem connections. ® • Wireless LAN connections that provide Internet access using Bluetooth wireless technology. If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection.
  • Page 55 4 In the next window, click the appropriate option: • If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose from a list of Internet service providers (ISPs). • If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click Set up my connection manually.
  • Page 56 Setting Up and Using Your Computer...

  • Page 57: Solving Problems

    (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 145). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 181). Solving Problems...

  • Page 58: Drive Problems

    XP and Windows Vista™ Operating System" on page 91. U N T H E E L L I A G N O S T I C S — See "Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive" on page 84. Solving Problems...

  • Page 59: Cd And Dvd Drive Problems

    CD and DVD drive problems NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD or DVD. NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

  • Page 60: Hard Drive Problems

    Hard drive problems H E C K I S K — Windows XP: Click Start and click My Computer. Right-click Local Disk C:. Click Properties→ Tools→ Check Now. Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors and click Start. Windows Vista: Start Click...
  • Page 61 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 62: Error Messages

    Error Messages CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared. F I L E N A M E C A N N O T C O N T A I N A N Y O F T H E F O L L O W I N G C H A R A C T E R S : \ / : * ? “...

  • Page 63: Keyboard Problems

    P E R A T I N G S YS T E M N O T F O U N D — Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 181). Keyboard Problems...

  • Page 64: Lockups And Software Problems

    Lockups and Software Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. The computer does not start up Ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet.

  • Page 65: A Program Is Designed For An Earlier

    ® ® A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating system U N T H E R O G R A M O M P A T I B I L I T Y I Z A R D —...

  • Page 66: Media Card Reader Problems

    A C K U P Y O U R F I L E S I M M E D I A T E L Y S E A V I R U S S C A N N I N G P R O G R A M T O C H E C K T H E H A R D D R I V E F L O P P Y D I S K S A V E A N D C L O S E A N Y O P E N F I L E S O R P R O G R A M S A N D S H U T D O W N Y O U R C O M P U T E R T H R O U G H T H E S T A R T M E N U...

  • Page 67: Memory Problems

    • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84). F Y O U E X P E R I E N C E O T H E R M E M O R Y P R O B L E M S —...

  • Page 68: Mouse Problems

    Mouse Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. L E A N T H E M O U S E — See "Mouse" on page 177 for instructions on cleaning the mouse.

  • Page 69: 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 "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 89. 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 70: Power Problems

    Power Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S O F F —...

  • Page 71: Printer Problems

    F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S B L I N K I N G A M B E R — The computer is receiving electrical power, a device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed. •...
  • Page 72 E R I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y I N D O W S — Windows XP: Click Start→Control Panel→...

  • Page 73: Scanner Problems

    Scanner Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer. H E C K T H E S C A N N E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N —...

  • Page 74: Sound And Speaker Problems

    Sound and Speaker Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. No sound from speakers NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting.

  • Page 75: No Sound From Headphones

    E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D D R I V E R — See "Manually Reinstalling Drivers" on page 91. 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 76: If The Screen Is Blank

    If the screen is blank H E C K T H E M O N I T O R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N — • Ensure that the graphics cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.

  • Page 77: If The Screen Is Difficult To Read

    If the screen is difficult to read H E C K T H E M O N I T O R S E T T I N G S — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
  • Page 78 Solving Problems...

  • Page 79: Troubleshooting Tools

    Troubleshooting Tools Power Lights CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. The power button light (bi-color LED) located on the front of the computer illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states: •...

  • Page 80: Beep Codes

    This beep code tells you that the computer encountered a possible motherboard failure. If your computer beeps during start-up: 1 Write down the beep code. 2 Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84). Troubleshooting Tools...
  • Page 81 If available, install good memory of the same type into your computer (see "Installing Memory" on page 111). If the problem persists, contact Dell. Possible Contact Dell. motherboard failure RAM Read/Write Ensure that no special memory...

  • Page 82: System Messages

    D I S K D R I V E F A I L U R E — Possible hard disk drive failure during HDD POST. Check cables /swap hard disks or see "Contacting Dell" on page 181 for assistance. A R D D I S K D R I V E R E A D F A I L U R E —...

  • Page 83: The Computer

    O T I M E R T I C K I N T E R R U P T — A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning or motherboard failure (see "Contacting Dell" on page 181 for assistance).

  • Page 84: Dell Diagnostics

    If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in Lockups and Software Problems (see "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 64) and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance. It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.

  • Page 85: Starting The Dell Diagnostics From The Drivers And Utilities Media

    If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media. 4 Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.

  • Page 86: Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

    Dell Diagnostics Main Menu 1 After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want. NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on your computer.
  • Page 87 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. 6 Remove the Drivers and Utilities media (if applicable).

  • Page 88: 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. NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities media may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your computer.

  • Page 89: Reinstalling Drivers And Utilities

    Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and Utilities media provide approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly. Using Windows Device Driver Rollback...
  • Page 90 Drivers and Utilities media and click Finish to restart the computer. 4 When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the Drivers and Utilities media. 5 At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next. NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media displays drivers only for hardware that came installed in your computer.

  • Page 91: Troubleshooting Software And Hardware Problems

    Manually Reinstalling Drivers After extracting the driver files to your hard drive as described in the previous section, do the following: 1 Click Start , and right-click Computer. 2 Click Properties→ Device Manager. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click Continue;...

  • Page 92: Restoring Your Operating System

    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. Troubleshooting Tools...
  • Page 93 Starting System Restore Windows XP: NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete. 1 Click Start→...

  • Page 94: Click The System Restore Tab And Ensure That Turn Off System Restore Is Unchecked

    Data files include documents, spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If possible, back up all data before using PC Restore and Dell Factory Image Restore. Windows XP: Dell PC Restore 1 Turn on the computer.
  • Page 95 8 After the computer restarts, click OK. Windows Vista: Dell Factory Image Restore 1 Turn on the computer. When the Dell logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the Vista Advanced Boot Options Window. 2 Select Repair Your Computer.
  • Page 96 Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer. It is recommended that you do not remove PC Restore from your computer, even to gain additional hard-drive space.

  • Page 97: Using The Operating System Cd

    The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP or Windows Vista. The options will overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows Vista unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.
  • Page 98 1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. 2 Insert the Operating System CD. Click Exit if the Install Windows message appears. 3 Restart the computer. Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears. NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to ®...

  • Page 99: Removing And Installing Parts

    You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 100 and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 100. • You have read the safety information in the Dell™ Product Information Guide. • A component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.

  • Page 100: Turning Off Your Computer

    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. NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its pull-tab, not on the cable itself.

  • Page 101: Removing The Computer Cover

    3 Press the power button to ground the system board. CAUTION: To guard against likelihood of electric shock, laceration by moving fan blades or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. 4 Open the computer cover. 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.
  • Page 102 computer cover front of computer 4 Release the computer cover by pulling it away from the front of the computer and lifting it up. 5 Set the cover aside in a secure location. Removing and Installing Parts...

  • Page 103: Inside View Of Your Computer

    Inside View of Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. 1 CD or DVD drive 2 power supply 3 optional CD or DVD drive 4 floppy drive or Media Reader 5 hard drive 6 optional hard drive Removing and Installing Parts...

  • Page 104: System Board Components

    System Board Components Removing and Installing Parts...
  • Page 105 processor socket processor fan memory module (CPU) connector connectors (CPU_FAN) (DIMM_1) memory module memory module memory module connectors connectors connectors (DIMM_2) (DIMM_3) (DIMM_4) main power floppy drive connector battery socket connector (FLOPPY) (ATX_POWER) 10 serial ATA drive 11 serial ATA drive 12 CMOS jumper connectors (SATA0) connectors (SATA1)

  • Page 106: Power Supply Dc Connector Pin Assignments

    Power Supply DC Connector Pin Assignments DC Power Connector P1 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 9 10 11 12 Removing and Installing Parts...
  • Page 107 Pin Number Signal name Wire Color Wire Size +3.3 V Orange 20 AWG +3.3 V Orange 20 AWG Black 20 AWG +5 V 20 AWG Black 20 AWG +5 V 20 AWG Black 20 AWG Gray 22 AWG +5 V AUX Purple 20 AWG +12 V...
  • Page 108 DC Power Connector P2 Pin Number Signal Name 18-AWG Wire Black Black +12 VADC Brown +12 VADC Brown DC Power Connectors P3, P4, P5, and P6 Pin Number Signal name 18-AWG Wire +3.3 VDC Orange Black +5 VDC Black +12 VBDC Yellow DC Power Connector P7 Removing and Installing Parts...
  • Page 109 Pin Number Signal Name 22-AWG Wire +5 VDC Black Black +12 VDC Yellow DC Power Connector P8 (For 350 W PSU only) NOTE: The P8 connector is not used on your computer. Pin Number Signal Name 18-AWG Wire Color +12 VDC Yellow +12 VDC Yellow...

  • Page 110: 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 163. NOTICE: Do not install ECC or buffered memory modules. Only unbuffered, non-ECC memory is supported.

  • Page 111: Installing Memory

    Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly.
  • Page 112 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 99. 2 Press the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector. memory connector closest securing clips (2) connector from processor (DIMM_1) 3 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.

  • Page 113: Removing Memory

    NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector while you apply equal force to each end of the module. 4 Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position. If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the module.

  • Page 114: Cards

    You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards: • One PCI Express x16 card slot (SLOT1) •...
  • Page 115 Installing a PCI/PCI Express Card 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 99. 2 Remove the computer cover. See "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 101. 1 card retention bracket filler bracket 3 Remove the screw holding the card retention bracket. 4 Lift the card retention bracket and set it aside in a secure place.
  • Page 116 7 Prepare the card for installation. See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer. CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a network.
  • Page 117 10 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot. 1 PCI Express x16 card 2 securing tab 3 PCI Express x1 card 4 PCI Express x1 card slot 5 PCI Express x16 card slot 11 Replace the card retention bracket ensuring that: •...
  • Page 118 1 alignment guide filler bracket alignment bar 4 card retention bracket guide clamp (2) guide notch (2) 12 Fix the card retention bracket by replacing and tightening the screw. 13 Connect any cables that should be attached to the card. See the documentation for the card for information about the card’s cable connections.
  • Page 119 NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. 14 Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on. 15 If you installed a sound card: Enter system setup (see "System Setup"...
  • Page 120 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. • For PCI card, grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.

  • Page 121: Bezel

    Bezel CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover. Removing the Bezel 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin"...

  • Page 122: Replacing The Bezel

    3 Grasp and lift the bezel grips one at a time to release it from the front panel. 4 Rotate and pull the bezel away from the front of the computer to release bezel clamps from bezel insert. 5 Set aside the bezel in a secure location. Replacing the Bezel 1 Align and insert the bezel clamps in the bezel insert.

  • Page 123: Drives

    Drives Your computer supports a combination of these devices: • Up to two serial ATA hard drives • One optional floppy drive or an optional Media Card Reader • Up to two CD or DVD drives 1 CD or DVD optional CD or floppy drive or drive...

  • Page 124: Recommended Drive Cable Connections

    Recommended Drive Cable Connections • Connect serial ATA hard drives to connectors labeled "SATA0" or "SATA1" on the system board. • Connect serial ATA CD or DVD drives to connectors labeled "SATA4" or "SATA5" on the system board. Connecting Drive Cables When you install a drive, you connect two cables—a DC power cable and a data cable—to the back of the drive.

  • Page 125: Connecting And Disconnecting Drive Cables

    Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA data cable, disconnect the cable using the pull-tab. The serial ATA 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.
  • Page 126 1 hard drive power cable serial ATA data cable 4 system board connector screws (4) 5 Remove the four screws securing the hard drive. NOTICE: Ensure that you do not scratch the screw holes with the screw driver as the hard disk circuit board assembly is exposed here. 6 Slide the drive out away from the front of the computer.
  • Page 127 Installing a Hard Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 99. 2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 101). 3 Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
  • Page 128 6 Replace and tighten the four screws to secure the hard drive. 7 Connect the power and data cables to the drive. 8 Connect the data cable to the system board. 9 Check all cables to be certain that they are properly connected and firmly seated.
  • Page 129 1 second hard drive serial ATA data cable power cable (optional) 4 system board screw holes in the hard screws (4) connector drive bay (4) 6 Replace and tighten the four screws to secure the hard drive. 7 Connect the power and data cables to the drive. 8 Connect the data cable to the system board.

  • Page 130: Floppy Drive

    10 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer. 11 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
  • Page 131 1 floppy drive data cable power cable 4 system board connector screws (2) 4 Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive. NOTE: If you have installed a PCI Express x16 card, this card may cover the floppy-drive connectors.
  • Page 132 9 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160). 10 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on. 11 Check the system setup for the appropriate diskette Drive Option changes (see "Entering System Setup" on page 168). Installing a Floppy Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin"...
  • Page 133 9 Connect the other end of the data cable to the connector labeled "FLOPPY" on the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 104) and route the cable through the clip on the shroud. 1 floppy drive data cable power cable 4 system board custom screws (2)
  • Page 134 14 Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 168) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive option. 15 Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84). Removing the FlexBay Break-Away Metal Plate Align the tip of a Phillips screwdriver with the slot on the break-away metal plate and rotate the screwdriver outwards to break and remove the metal plate.

  • Page 135: Media Card Reader

    Replacing the Drive Panel Insert drive panel insert (optional) back of the computer Align the drive panel insert along the edges of the empty slot of the floppy drive and push the panel insert. The drive panel insert is locked in place. NOTE: To comply with FCC regulations, it is recommended that you replace the drive panel insert whenever the floppy drive is removed from the computer.
  • Page 136 Removing a Media Card Reader 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 99. 2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 101). 3 Remove the bezel (see "Removing the Bezel" on page 121). Not present on all computers.
  • Page 137 7 If you are not reinstalling the Media Card Reader, replace the drive panel insert, as needed. 8 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 122). 9 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160). 10 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
  • Page 138 Not present on all computers. 1 Media Card Reader data cable power cable 4 system board screw holes in the custom screws (2) connector FlexBay slot 9 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 122). 10 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160).

  • Page 139: Cd/Dvd Drive

    CD/DVD Drive 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 removing the cover. Removing a CD/DVD Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin"...
  • Page 140 6 Remove the two screws securing the CD/DVD drive. 7 Slide the CD/DVD drive out through the front of the computer. 8 If you are not replacing the drive, replace the drive panel insert (see "Replacing the Drive Panel Insert" on page 135). 9 Replace the drive panel (see "Drives"...
  • Page 141 1 CD/DVD drive data cable power cable 4 system board screw holes in the custom screws (2) connector CD/DVD drive bay 9 Replace the bezel (see "Replacing the Bezel" on page 122). 10 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160).
  • Page 142 12 Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 168) and select the appropriate Drive option. 13 Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84). Installing a Second CD/DVD Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 99.
  • Page 143 1 CD/DVD drive second CD/DVD drive data cable 4 power cable system board connector screw holes in the CD/DVD drive bay 10 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to avoid blocking airflow between the fan and cooling vents. 11 Replace and tighten the two screws securing the CD/DVD drive.
  • Page 144 15 Enter system setup (see "System Setup" on page 168) and select the appropriate Drive option. 16 Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84). Replacing the CD/DVD Panel Insert...

  • Page 145: Battery

    Battery Replacing the Battery CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions 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.

  • Page 146: Power Supply

    7 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer. 8 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
  • Page 147 5 Remove the four screws that attach the power supply to the back of the computer chassis. power supply screws (4) 6 Slide out the power supply and lift it out. 7 Slide the replacement power supply towards the back of the computer. 8 Replace and tighten all screws that secure the power supply to the back of the computer chassis.

  • Page 148: I/O Panel

    11 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160). 12 Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on. 13 Verify that the computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84). I/O Panel CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

  • Page 149: Installing The I/O Panel

    6 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160). 7 Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on. 8 Verify that the computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84).

  • Page 150: Processor Fan

    Processor Fan CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against likelihood of electric shock, laceration by moving fan blades or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

  • Page 151: Installing The Processor Fan/Heat Sink Assembly

    processor fan/heat sink assembly NOTE: The processor fan/heat sink assembly in your computer may not look exactly like the one shown in the illustration above. Installing the Processor Fan/Heat Sink Assembly NOTICE: When reinstalling the fan, ensure that you do not pinch the wires that run between the system board and the fan.

  • Page 152: Processor

    3 Connect the processor fan/heat sink assembly cable to the CPU_FAN system board connector (see "System Board Components" on page 104). 4 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160). 5 Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on. Processor CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the...
  • Page 153 4 At the processor, place your finger upon the hook end of the release lever, then push down and out to release it from the tab that secures it. processor cover processor socket release lever NOTICE: When replacing the processor, do not touch any of the pins inside the socket or allow any objects to fall on the pins in the socket.

  • Page 154: Installing The Processor

    Installing the Processor NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer. NOTICE: When replacing the processor, do not touch any of the pins inside the socket or allow any objects to fall on the pins in the socket. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin"...
  • Page 155 1 processor cover 2 tab 3 processor 4 processor socket 5 center cover latch 6 release lever 7 front alignment-notch 8 processor pin-1 indicator 9 rear alignment notch 9 Clean the thermal grease from the bottom of the heat sink. NOTICE: Ensure that you apply new thermal grease.

  • Page 156: Chassis Fan

    Chassis Fan CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against likelihood of electric shock, laceration by moving fan blades or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

  • Page 157: Replacing The Chassis Fan

    2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 101). 3 Remove the four screws securing the chassis fan. 4 Slide the chassis fan towards the front of the computer and lift it up. Replacing the Chassis Fan 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin"...

  • Page 158: System Board

    System Board Removing the System Board CAUTION: To guard against likelihood of electric shock, laceration by moving fan blades or other unexpected injuries, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover. CAUTION: The heat sink assembly, power supply, and other components may be very hot during normal operation.

  • Page 159: Installing The System Board

    System Board Screws screws (8) system board Place the system board assembly that you just removed next to the replacement system board to compare and ensure they are identical. Installing the System Board 1 Gently align the board into the chassis and slide it toward the back of the computer.

  • Page 160: Replacing The Computer Cover

    7 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 160). 8 Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on. 9 Verify that the computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 84). Replacing the Computer Cover...
  • Page 161 6 Replace and tighten the two screws that secure the computer cover, using a screwdriver. computer cover tab slot computer cover front of the computer 7 Move the computer to the upright position. NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.
  • Page 162 Removing and Installing Parts...

  • Page 163: A Appendix

    Appendix Specifications 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 Core™ 2 Quad processor ®...
  • Page 164 Computer Information (continued) BIOS chip (NVRAM) 16 Mb Integrated network interface capable of 10/100 communication Video Type Intel integrated video Audio Type Realtec ALC888 (7.1 Channel audio) Expansion Bus Bus type PCI 2.3 PCI Express 1.0A SATA 1.0 and 2.0 USB 2.0 Bus speed PCI: 133 MB/s...
  • Page 165 Expansion Bus (continued) PCI Express connector one x16 connector size 164 pins connector data width 16 PCI Express lanes (maximum) Drives Externally accessible: one 3.5-inch drive bay (FlexBay) two 5.25-inch drive bays Internally accessible two 3.5-inch drive bays Available devices two 3.5-inch Serial ATA hard drives and two 5.25-inch Serial ATA CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD- RW, or combo drive (optional)
  • Page 166 Connectors (continued) PCI Express x1 one 36-pin connector PCI Express x16 one 164-pin connector Front panel control one 10-pin connector Front panel USB two 10-pin connectors Front panel audio HDA one 10-pin connector header Processor one 775-pin connector Memory four 240-pin connectors Power 12V one 4-pin connector Power...
  • Page 167 Power DC power supply: Wattage 300 W ® 350 W (for computers with Intel Core™ 2 Quad processor) Maximum heat dissipation 162 W ® 188 W (for computers with Intel Core™ 2 Quad processor) NOTE: Heat dissipation is calculated by using the power supply wattage rating.

  • Page 168: System Setup

    Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings for this program. Certain changes can make your computer work incorrectly. Entering System Setup 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer. 2 When the blue DELL™ logo is displayed, you must watch for the F2 prompt to appear. Appendix...
  • Page 169 3 Once this F2 prompt appears, press <F2> immediately. NOTE: The F2 prompt indicates that the keyboard has initialized. This prompt can appear very quickly, so you must watch for it to display, and then press <F2>. If you press <F2> before you are prompted, this keystroke will be lost. 4 If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait ®...

  • Page 170: 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 Info Shows the BIOS version number and date information BIOS Info Shows the service tag of the computer Service Tag Identifies whether the computer’s processor supports CPU Info...
  • Page 171 Boot Device Configuration Used to set the device priority of removable devices like Removable Device USB floppy drives. The items displayed are dynamically Priority updated according to the removable devices connected. Used to set the device priority of hard drives. The items Hard Disk Boot displayed are dynamically updated according to the hard Priority...

  • Page 172: Boot Sequence

    Power Management Setup S1(POS); S3(STR) (S3(STR) by default) ACPI Suspend Type On; Off (On by default) Remote Wake Up Enabled; Disabled (Disabled by default) Auto Power On Auto Power On Date 0 Auto Power On Time 0:00:00 Off; On; Last (Off by default) AC Recovery Boot Sequence This feature allows you to change the boot sequence for devices.
  • Page 173 You can use this feature, for example, to tell the computer to boot from the CD drive so that you can run the Dell Diagnostics on the Drivers and Utilities media, but you want the computer to boot from the hard drive when the diagnostic tests are complete.

  • Page 174: 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. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 99. 2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on page 101).

  • Page 175: Clearing Cmos Settings

    The BIOS may require flashing when an update is available or when replacing the system board. 1 Turn on the computer. 2 Locate the BIOS update file for your computer at the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. 3 Click Download Now to download the file.

  • Page 176: Cleaning Your Computer

    5 Click Save this program to disk, and then click OK. The Save In window appears. 6 Click the down arrow to view the Save In menu, select Desktop, and then click Save. The file downloads to your desktop. 7 Click Close when the Download Complete window appears. The file icon appears on your desktop and is titled the same as the download BIOS update file.

  • Page 177: Mouse

    Mouse If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse. To clean a non-optical mouse: 1 Turn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counterclockwise, and then remove the ball. 2 Wipe the ball with a clean, lint-free cloth. 3 Blow carefully into the ball cage to dislodge dust and lint.

  • Page 178: Dell Technical Support Policy (U.s. Only)

    Dell, as well as the verification of appropriate functionality of the computer and all Dell-installed hardware.

  • Page 179: Definition Of "Dell-Installed" Software And Peripherals

    Definition of "Third-Party" 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 180 Plug the system into a different outlet so that the system and the receiver are on different branch circuits. 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...

  • Page 181: Contacting Dell

    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. Because availability varies by country and product, some services may not be available in your area.
  • Page 182 Appendix...

  • Page 183: Glossary

    Glossary Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer. AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet. ACPI —...
  • Page 184 BIOS — basic input/output system — A program (or utility) that serves as an interface between the computer hardware and the operating system. Unless you understand what effect these settings have on the computer, do not change them. Also referred to as system setup. bit —...
  • Page 185 CD-R — CD recordable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be recorded only once onto a CD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over. CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten).
  • Page 186 device driver — See driver. DIMM — dual in-line memory module — A circuit board with memory chips that connects to a memory module on the system board. DIN connector — A round, six-pin connector that conforms to DIN (Deutsche Industrie-Norm) standards;...
  • Page 187 ExpressCards. ExpressCards support both the PCI Express and USB 2.0 standard. 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 188 Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling point of water. FBD — fully-buffered DIMM — A DIMM with DDR2 DRAM chips and an Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) that speeds communication between the DDR2 SDRAM chips and the system.
  • Page 189 hard drive — A drive that reads and writes data on a hard disk. The terms hard drive and hard disk are often used interchangeably. heat sink — A metal plate on some processors that helps dissipate heat. hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves everything in memory to a reserved space on the hard drive and then turns off the computer.
  • Page 190 IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway assigned to a specific device so that the device can communicate with the processor. Each device connection must be assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share the same IRQ assignment, you cannot operate both devices simultaneously.
  • Page 191 — 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...
  • Page 192 network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interface controller).
  • Page 193 PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two devices through the processor as part of the data path. pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are arranged in rows and columns to create an image. A video resolution, such as 800 x 600, is expressed as the number of pixels across by the number of pixels up and down.
  • Page 194 refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines are recharged (sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency). The higher the refresh rate, the less video flicker can be seen by the human eye. resolution —...
  • Page 195 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. setup program — A program that is used to install and configure hardware and software.
  • Page 196 SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 1024. SXGA+ — super-extended graphics array plus — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1400 x 1050. system board —...
  • Page 197 USB — universal serial bus — A hardware interface for a low-speed device such as a USB-compatible keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner, set of speakers, printer, broadband devices (DSL and cable modems), imaging devices, or storage devices. Devices are plugged directly in to a 4-pin socket on your computer or in to a multi-port hub that plugs in to your computer.
  • Page 198 W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt. WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for 1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours.

  • Page 199: Index

    Index CD-RW drive problems, 59 audio. See sound CDs, 27 playing, 25 Check Disk, 60 CMOS settings battery clearing, 175 problems, 57 replacing, 145 computer beep codes, 80 beep codes, 80 components inside, 103 BIOS, 168 crashes, 64-65 boot sequence, 172 inside view, 103 changing, 173 restore to previous state, 92...
  • Page 200 CD/DVD, 139 contacting, 181 removing floppy, 130 support policy, 178 removing hard drive, 125 support site, 12 second hard drive, 128 Dell Diagnostics, 84 serial ATA, 125 diagnostics DVD drive beep codes, 80 problems, 59 Dell, 84 DVDs, 27...
  • Page 201 60 removing, 125 labels hardware Microsoft Windows, 12 beep codes, 80 Service Tag, 12, 16 conflicts, 91 Dell Diagnostics, 84 Help and Support, 13 hibernate mode, 35, 37-38 Media Card Reader installing, 135, 137 problems, 66 removing, 135-136 using, 30...
  • Page 202 CD-RW drive, 59 jumper, 174 computer crashes, 64-65 PC Restore, 94 computer stops responding, 64 PCI cards conflicts, 91 installing, 115 Dell Diagnostics, 84 removing, 119 drives, 58 DVD drive, 59 playing CDs and DVDs, 25 e-mail, 60 power error messages, 62...
  • Page 203 problems (continued) memory, 67 S.M.A.R.T, 83 modem, 60 safety instructions, 11 monitor is blank, 76 monitor is hard to read, 77 SATA. See serial ATA mouse, 68 scanner network, 69 problems, 73 power, 70 serial ATA, 125 power light conditions, 70 printer, 71 Service Tag, 12, 16 program crashes, 64...
  • Page 204 92 video, 164 tips, 57 standby mode, 34, 38 connect to computer, 32-33 Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD, 85 Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive, 84 booting to devices, 173...
  • Page 205 Windows XP Device Driver Rollback, 89 Files and Settings Transfer Wizard, 53 Help and Support, 13 reinstalling, 92 System Restore, 92 wizards Files and Settings Transfer Wizard, 47, 53 Program Compatibility Wizard, 65 Index...
  • Page 206 Index...

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Inspiron 530

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