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Dell Dimension L Series Reference And Troubleshooting Manual

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  • Page 1 Dell™ Dimension™ L Series Systems www.dell.com support.dell.com...
  • Page 2 Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Computer Corporation is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Dell Precision, DellWare, Inspiron, Latitude, OptiPlex, and Dimension are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks and Celeron and MMX are trademarks of Intel Corporation;...

  • Page 3: When Using Your Computer System

    Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer system from poten- tial damage and to ensure your own personal safety. When Using Your Computer System As you use your computer system, observe the following safety guidelines. CAUTION: Do not operate your computer system with any cover(s) (includ- ing computer covers, bezels, filler brackets, front-panel inserts, and so on) removed.

  • Page 4: Ergonomic Computing Habits

    • Position your system so that the monitor and keyboard are directly in front of you as you work. Special shelves are available (from Dell and other sources) to help you correctly position your keyboard. •...

  • Page 5: When Working Inside Your Computer

    Before you remove the computer cover, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated. NOTICE: Do not attempt to service the computer system yourself, except as explained in this guide and elsewhere in Dell documentation. Always fol- low installation and service instructions closely. Turn off your computer and all devices.

  • Page 6: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

    In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate: • When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are dis- ve a connector with locking tabs;...

  • Page 7: About This Guide

    About This Guide This guide is intended for anyone who uses a Dell Dimension L Series c Series computer system. It can be used by both first-time and experienced computer users who want to learn about the features and operation of the systems or who want to upgrade their computers.

  • Page 8: Warranty And Return Policy Information

    The Getting Started sheet provides step-by-step instructions for setting up your computer system. • The Dell Dimension Systems Setup Guide describes how to properly set up your operating system and connect a printer. • The Dell Dimension L Series System Help describes the features and operation of your computer.

  • Page 9: Typographical Conventions

    Typographical Conventions The following list defines (where appropriate) and illustrates typographical conven- tions used as visual cues for specific elements of text throughout this document: • Interface components are window titles, button and icon names, menu names and selections, and other options that appear on the monitor screen or display. They are presented in bold.

  • Page 11: Table Of Contents

    Chapter 1 Introduction....... . . 1-1 Hardware Features ..........1-1 Software Features .
  • Page 12 Starting the Dell Diagnostics........
  • Page 13 Using the Dell Diagnostics ........
  • Page 14 Before You Call ........... . 7-4 Dell Contact Numbers bers.
  • Page 15 VCCI Notice (Japan Only) ..........D-5 Class A ITE A ITE .
  • Page 16 Dell Contact Numbers ........7-8...

  • Page 17: Introduction

    Hardware Features Your Dell computer offers the following hardware features: • The Dell Dimension Lxxxr includes an Intel Pentium III microprocessor that runs at an external speed of 100 or 133 megahertz (MHz). 00 or 133 megahertz (MHz). The Intel Pentium III processor includes Streaming Single Instruction, Multiple Data (SIMD) Extensions.

  • Page 18: Software Features

    The system board includes the following built-in features: • An integrated video controller: — Dell Dimension L L xxxr and Lxxxcx include an integrated Intel 810e video controller with Dynamic Video Memory and 4 MB of video SDRAM. SDRAM. — Dell Dimension Lxxxcxe includes an integrated Intel 810 video controller with Dynamic Video Memory.

  • Page 19: Available Upgrades Upgrades

    Refer to “Adding Memory” in Chapter 2 before purchasing a memory Chapter 2 before purchasing a memory upgrade. Dell offers a wide variety of drives that can be installed in your system, including the following options: • ATA-33/66 66 Ultra DMA hard-disk drives •...

  • Page 20: Preventive Maintenance

    Scheduling Backups Dell recommends that you back up the hard-disk drive at least once a week, with a daily backup of those files that have been changed. Following these guidelines ensures the loss of no more than a day's work. As further insurance against data loss, keep dupli- cate copies of the weekly and monthly backups at an off-site location.

  • Page 21: Cleaning System Components

    This contaminant buildup increases the system’s internal temperature and interferes with component operation. To minimize these conditions, Dell recommends keeping your work environment clean. In particular, you should regularly clean your computer system. You may also want to purchase monitor and keyboard covers to protect against dust and debris.

  • Page 22: Cleaning The Mouse

    Many surge protectors have a phone jack for modem protection. Network connections cannot be protected by surge protectors. Therefore, always disconnect the network cable from the network connector during electrical storms. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 23: Line Conditioners

    AC power is lost. UPS systems with 5 minutes of battery power let you conduct an orderly shutdown of the system, but are not intended to provide continued operation. A UPS system should be Underwriters Lab- oratories (UL) safety-approved ) safety-approved. support.dell.com Introduction...
  • Page 24 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 25: Installing Upgrades On The System Board

    Disconnect the power cable to your computer, and then press the power button to ground the system board. In addition, Dell recommends that you review the safety instructions at the front of Dell recommends that you review the safety instructions at the front of this guide.

  • Page 26: Installation Guidelines

    Face the front of the chassis. Place your left hand on the left side of the chassis. Push back the release latch at the top back edge of the chassis (see Figure 2-1) to 1) to release the computer cover into your left hand. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 27: Figure 2-1. Removing The Computer Cover

    Lift up the cover, making sure to keep the bottom hooks aligned with the curves in the chassis. Gently squeeze the right and left sides of the computer together until the cover clicks into position. support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board...

  • Page 28: Rotating The Power Supply Away From The System Board

    Rotate the power supply into position until its release latch clicks. Wrap the drive cables along the top of the latch in the retainers as shown in Figure 2-3. 2-4 4 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 29: Inside Your Computer

    The system board—the large printed circuit board secured to the right side of the chassis—holds the computer’s control circuitry and other electronic components. Some hardware options are installed directly onto the system board. support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board...

  • Page 30: Figure 2-4. Inside The Computer

    I/O panel /O panel hard-disk drive power supply AC power receptacle Figure 2-4. Inside the Computer Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 31: System Board

    Table 2-1. System Board Connectors and Sockets Connector or Socket Description BANKn DIMM sockets for memory BATTERY Battery socket FLOPPY OPPY Diskette-drive interface connector NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board...
  • Page 32 Serial port connector USB B n USB connectors VIDEO Video connector Wakeup On LAN connector N connector NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide ference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 33: Jumpers

    (refer to “Disabling a Forgotten Password” in Appendix B). NOTICE: Entering Maintenance mode returns all settings in the system setup program to their defaults. Dell strongly recommends that you record or print all current settings before entering Maintenance mode so that you can correct them when the system is reset to Normal mode.

  • Page 34: Figure 2-6. Pci Expansion Card

    Administrative Tools (Common) folder and view the Resources tab. To check Windows 2000 resources, perform the following steps: Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click the System icon. Click the Hardware tab. 2-10 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 35: Installing Expansion Cards

    Cutouts in the card-edge connector align with crossbars in the expansion-card connector. Gently rock the card into the connector until it is fully seated (see Gently rock the card into the connector until it is fully seated (see Figure 2-8). support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board 2-11...

  • Page 36: Figure 2-8. Installing An Expansion Card

    (see Figure 2-9). “Expansion Cards” in Chapter 6 provides more information on cor- Expansion Cards” in Chapter 6 provides more information on cor- rectly seating an expansion card. 2-12 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 37: Removing Expansion Cards

    Supply Away From the System Board” found earlier in this chapter. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Remove the screw from the card-mounting bracket. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector. support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board 2-13...

  • Page 38: Adding Memory

    (non-ECC), 100-megahertz (MHz) DIMMs are supported. Purchasing mem- Hz) DIMMs are supported. Purchasing mem- ory upgrades from Dell Spare Parts ensures system compatibility; these upgrades are also covered under your system warranty. NOTE: Your computer is designed for peak performance with specific DIMMs that are IMMs that are validated through rigorous testing.

  • Page 39: Figure 2-10. Installing A Dimm

    Rotate the power supply back into place, replace the computer cover, and reconnect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets and turn them on. Reboot the computer system, and press <Del> when the blue Dell logo screen appears to enter the system setup program. Verify that the amount displayed for Total Memory on the Main screen is correct.

  • Page 40: Removing A Dimm

    Rotate the power supply back into place, replace the computer cover, and reconnect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets and turn them on. Reboot the computer system, and press <Del> when the blue Dell logo screen > when the blue Dell logo screen appears to enter the system setup program.

  • Page 41: Figure 2-12. System Battery And Battery Socket

    Reboot the computer system, press <Del> when <Del> when the blue Dell logo screen appears to enter the system setup program, and restore the correct settings. Refer to Appendix B, “System Setup Program,” for instructions Program,”...
  • Page 42 2-18 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Guide...

  • Page 43: Chapter 3 Installing Drives

    Remove the computer cover as described in “Removing and Replacing the Com- puter Cover” in Chapter 2 2 . While facing the front of the computer, press the bezel release tab on the top of the chassis as shown in Figure 3-1. support.dell.com Installing Drives...

  • Page 44: Figure 3-1. Removing The Bezel

    To replace the bezel, fit the bezel's two retaining hooks into their corresponding slots on the chassis. Rotate the bezel toward the chassis until the bezel latches into position. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 45: Removing And Replacing A 3.5-Inch F 5-Inch Front-Panel Insert

    Figure 3-2. Removing a 3.5-Inch Insert If you permanently remove a drive from the drive cage, replace the front-panel insert by inserting its two tabs into the slot in the bezel and rotating the insert forward until it snaps into place. support.dell.com Installing Drives...

  • Page 46: Configuring Drives

    The connector on the interface cable is a header connector, as shown in Figure 3-4. This connector is keyed for correct insertion. A b A blocked hole on the cable connector matches a missing pin on the drive connector. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 47: Installing Externally Accessible Drives

    Remove the existing drive from the bay by disconnecting the power cable and interface cable, squeezing the rail tabs at the front of the drive, and sliding the drive from the bay. support.dell.com Installing Drives...

  • Page 48: 3.5-Inch Drives

    14. If you installed a drive that requires device drivers, such as a CD-ROM drive, refer OM drive, refer to the drive's documentation for driver installation instructions. 15. Verify the correct operation of the drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4 Chapter 4).

  • Page 49: Figure 3-5. Removing A 3.5-Inch Drive Bay Plate

    Remove the extra rails (see Figure 3-6) from the inside of the front of the chassis. Install the rail marked “L” on the left side of the drive and the rail marked “R” on the right side of the drive. support.dell.com Installing Drives...
  • Page 50 (refer to “PCI Expansion Card Upgrades” in Chapter 2 for instructions). Install the card as close as possible to the drive cage. NOTICE: Dell does not recommend routing cables over cards because the cables can restrict airflow, cause cooling problems, and interfere with removing and replacing the computer cover.

  • Page 51: Lower 3.5-Inch Bay

    15. If you installed a drive that requires device drivers quires device drivers, refer to the drive's documen- tation for driver installation instructions. 16. Verify the correct operation of the drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4). Lower 3.5-Inch Bay To upgrade the drive in the lower 3.5-inch bay, perform the following steps:...

  • Page 52: Upgrading The Eide Hard-Disk Drive

    14. If you installed a drive that requires device drivers, refer to the drive's documen- tation for driver installation instructions. 15. Verify the correct operation of the drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (refer to Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4).

  • Page 53: Figure 3-7. Installing The Hard-Disk Drive

    Make sure that no cable connections were loosened during the procedure. Arrange cables so that they will not interfere with replacing the power supply and computer cover. 10. Rotate the power supply back into place, and replace the computer cover. support.dell.com Installing Drives 3-11...

  • Page 54: Partitioning And Logically Formatting An Eide Hard-Disk Drive

    11. Reconnect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them 12. 2. Verify the correct operation of the drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4). Partitioning and Logically Formatting an EIDE Hard-Disk...

  • Page 55: Chapter 4 Basic Troubleshooting

    It can also direct you to the appropriate chapter in this guide for detailed troubleshooting information and procedures to solve more complex problems. You should complete the checks in this chapter before calling Dell for tech- You should complete the checks in this chapter before calling Dell for tech- nical assistance;...

  • Page 56: Dellware Support

    Usually reseating (disconnecting and then reconnecting) the cables corrects these problems. NOTE: See the “ TE: See the “System Features” section of the Dell Dimension L Series System Help for the location of your computer’s external connectors and controls d controls.

  • Page 57: Power

    A message is displayed on the monitor. Refer to Table C-2. You hear a series of beeps. Refer to Appendix C. The diagnostic indicators on the back of Refer to Table C-1. the computer are not all green. support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting...

  • Page 58: Monitor

    This section lists some basic checks you can do for most monitors. Check the documentation that came with the monitor for fault indications and troubleshooting procedures specific to your monitor. If you purchased the monitor from Dell, you can also find troubleshooting information on Dell’s World Wide Web site (http://support.dell.com).
  • Page 59 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click Double-click the Display icon, and click the Settings tab. Try different Color Palette and Screen area (Windows 98, Windows Me, or Windows 2000) or Desktop Area (Windows NT) settings. NT) settings. support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting...

  • Page 60: Speakers

    Check that the modem cable is connected to the line jack (the jack with a connector-shaped icon) on the modem. Reseat the cable connections. ) on the modem. Reseat the cable connections. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 61: Diskette Drives

    Appendix B, “System Setup Program.” Appendix B, “System Setup Program.” • Run the Diskette device group as described in “Running the Dell Diagnostics” found later in this chapter. • Refer to “Drives” in Chapter 6 for further troubleshooting information.

  • Page 62: Hard-Disk Drives

    NOTE: If you can connect to the network but are having problems accessing : If you can connect to the network but are having problems accessing network resources, contact your network administrator. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 63: Network Cable Requirements

    Reinstall the network drivers that came with your network card (refer to the doc- umentation that came with the card). If your computer has a Dell-supported network card installed, run the Network Interface test group as described in “Running the Dell Diagnostics” found later in this chapter.

  • Page 64: Starting The Dell Diagnostics

    Using this program with other computers may cause incorrect computer responses or result in error messages. The Dell Diagnostics provides a series of menus and options from which you choose particular test groups or subtests. You can also control the sequence in which the quence in which the tests are run.

  • Page 65: Dell Diagnostics Main Screen

    MS-DOS prompt. DOS prompt. NOTE: Before you read the rest of this section, you may want to start the Dell Diag- nostics so that you can see it on the screen of your monitor.

  • Page 66: Figure 4-2. Dell Diagnostics Main Screen

    Information on the main screen of the diagnostics is presented in the following areas: • Two lines at the top of the screen identify the version number of the Dell Diagnostics. • On the left side of the screen, the Device Groups area lists the diagnostic test groups in the order they will run if you select All from the Run Tests menu.

  • Page 67: Using The Dell Diagnostics

    Using the Dell Diagnostics The online Help in the Dell Diagnostics provides instructions on how to use the pro- Help in the Dell Diagnostics provides instructions on how to use the pro- gram and explains each menu item, test group, subtest, and test and error result. To...

  • Page 68: Test

    Versions Versions lists the version numbers of the subtests that are used by the Dell Diagnostics. 4-14 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 69: Using Windows Windows Power Management Features

    Using Windows Power Management Features For Windows 98, the power management features of your Dell system can be set through the Power Management Properties window. For Windows Me and Windows 2000, 000, the power management features can be set through the Power Options Properties window.

  • Page 70: Reinstalling Drivers

    However, if you ever —no further installation or configuration is needed. However, if you ever need to reinstall any of these drivers, the driver files are provided on the Dell Dimension ResourceCD.

  • Page 71: Your System's Drivers

    Windows desktop, clicking System Informa- tion, and then clicking System Documentation. NOTE: If a driver does not appear under a selected operating system on the Dell Dimension ResourceCD, then the driver is not required by that operating system.

  • Page 72: Temporarily Disabling The Virus-Scanning Program Program

    Device Manager. Resolve these conflicts before checking specific devices. Resolve these conflicts before checking specific devices. Double-click the malfunctioning device type in the Device Manager list. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 73 What would you like help with? list, click Hardware & system device prob- & system device prob- lems, click Hardware, memory, & others, and then click Hardware Troubleshooter. In Windows 2000, double-click Troubleshooting and Maintenance on the Contents tab, and then double-click If you have a hardware conflict. support.dell.com Software Solutions...

  • Page 74: Reinstalling Windows 98

    Windows 98. Turn on the computer and enter the system setup program as directed by a Dell mputer and enter the system setup program as directed by a Dell technical support representative.

  • Page 75: Reinstalling Windows Me

    Windows Me. Turn on the computer and enter the system setup program as directed by a Dell technical support representative. In the system setup program Boot menu, change the boot sequence so that the CD-ROM M drive boots first, as directed by a Dell technical support representative.
  • Page 76 19. Type the Windows product key in the fields provided, and then click Next. The product key is the bar code number found on the Microsoft Windows label, Microsoft Windows label, which is located on the side of your system. 5-8 8 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 77: Reinstalling Windows 2000

    24. Remove the operating system CD from the CD-ROM D from the CD-ROM drive. 25. Enter the system setup program as directed by a Dell technical support representative. 26. 6. In the system setup program Boot menu, change the boot sequence so that the diskette drive boots first, as directed by a Dell technical support representative.
  • Page 78 2000 now begins to install its components and configure the computer. 16. When the Completing the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard zard screen appears, remove the CD from the drive, and then click Finish. The computer automatically restarts. 5-10 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 79 Rotate the power supply back into position, replace the computer cover, connect all external cables, and turn on the system. The following subsections provide troubleshooting procedures for some specific types of expansion cards. support.dell.com Checking Inside Your Computer Your Computer...

  • Page 80: Figure 6-1. Expansion-Card Installation

    Figure 6-1. Expansion-Card Installation front edge not seated bracket caught in slot Figure 6-2. Incorrect Expansion-Card Installations Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 81: Checking Inside Your Computer

    NOTE: If you have persistent problems with low connection speeds, contact your telephone company to check for data noise and imbalanced lines or your Internet service provider (ISP) for information about their service. (ISP) for information about their service. support.dell.com Checking Inside Your Computer 6-3 3...

  • Page 82: Sound Cards

    Rotate the power supply back into position, replace the computer cover, connect all external cables, and turn on the system. Clear nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM) as described in “Clearing NVRAM” in Appendix B. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 83: System Memory

    “Removing and Replacing the Computer Cover” and “Rotating the Power Supply Away From the System Board” in Chapter 2. Remove the DIMMs as described in “Removing a DIMM” in Chapter 2 bed in “Removing a DIMM” in Chapter 2. support.dell.com Checking Inside Your Computer 6-5 5...
  • Page 84 If the problem persists, refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for instructions on 7 , “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. The following subsections provide troubleshooting checks for some specific types of drives. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 85: Cd-Rom Drive

    3.5-inch diskette drive and the CD-ROM drive. Disconnect all devices attached to the computer except the monitor and the keyboard. yboard. Rotate the power supply back into position, replace the computer cover, and reconnect the system to an electrical outlet. support.dell.com Checking Inside Your Computer...
  • Page 86 4) and reinstall each of the expansion cards you removed in step 3. Repeat steps 5 through 12 after each reinstallation. 15. If the problem returns after you reconnect a drive not obtained from Dell, remove it and contact the manufacturer of that drive. Otherwise, refer to Chapter 7 , “Get- ting Help,”...

  • Page 87: If Your Computer Gets Wet

    4. Refer to “Installing Expansion Cards” in Chapter 2 for instructions. Insert the Dell Dimension ResourceCD into the CD-ROM drive. Insert the Microsoft Windows 98 Boot Disk or Microsoft Windows Me Boot Disk Windows 98 Boot Disk or Microsoft Windows Me Boot Disk into the diskette drive.

  • Page 88: If Your Computer Is Damaged

    Type q to quickly test your computer system. If the tests do not complete successfully, refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. 6-10 10 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 89: Getting Help

    This chapter describes the tools Dell provides to help you when you have a problem with your computer. It also tells you when and how to call Dell for technical or cus- tomer assistance. Technical Assistance If you need assistance with a technical problem, perform the following steps: Complete the troubleshooting checks in Chapter 4, “Basic Troubleshooting.”...

  • Page 90: Help Tools

    Help Tools Dell provides a number of tools to assist you. These tools are described in the follow- ing sections. NOTE: Some of the following tools are not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S. Please call your local Dell representative for information on U.S.

  • Page 91: Autotech Service

    TechFax Service Dell takes full advantage of fax technology to serve you better. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, you can call the Dell TechFax line toll-free for all kinds of tech- nical information. Using a touch-tone phone, you can select from a full directory of topics. The technical information you request is sent within minutes to the fax number you designate.

  • Page 92: Product Information

    Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (Figure 7-1). If possible, turn on your sys- ). If possible, turn on your sys- tem before you call Dell for technical assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the computer system itself.

  • Page 93: Figure 7-1. Diagnostics Checklist

    Address: ________________________________________________________Phone number: _________________ Service tag (bar code on the back of the computer): _________________________________________________ Express Service Code: ___________________________________________________________________________ Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician): zation Number (if provided by Dell support technician): ___________________________ Operating system and version: ____________________________________________________________________...

  • Page 94: Dell Contact Numbers

    Dell Contact Numbers When you need to contact Dell, use the telephone numbers, codes, and electronic addresses provided in Tables 7-1 and 7-2. Table 7-1 provides the various codes required to make long-distance and international calls. Table 7-2 provides local tele-...

  • Page 95: Table 7-1. International Dialing Codes

    Italy (Milan) Japan (Kawasaki) ki) Korea (Seoul) Luxembourg — Macau — Not required d Malaysia (Penang) Mexico (Colonia Granada) Netherlands (Amsterdam) Amsterdam) New Zealand — Norway (Lysaker) Not required quired Poland (Warsaw) Portugal — Singapore (Singapore) Not required support.dell.com Getting Help...

  • Page 96: Table 7-2. Dell Contact Numbers

    ....... 01 ....491 04 0 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 97 Table 7-2. Dell Contact Numbers (continued) Area Local Number or Department Name or Service Code Toll-Free Number Country (City) Belgium Technical Support ......02 2 ....481 92 88 (Brussels) Customer Care .
  • Page 98 Fax Switchboard..........45170117 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: den_support@dell.com pport@dell.com 7-10 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 99 Table 7-2. Dell Contact Numbers (continued) Area Local Number or Department Name or Service Code Toll-Free Number Country (City) Finland Technical Support ......09....253 313 60 (Helsinki) Technical Support Fax x .
  • Page 100 Switchboard ....... 01 ....286 0500 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com 7-12 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 101 ..........toll free: 0120-1984-33 Technical Support Outside of Japan (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) .
  • Page 102 Corporate Sales ........toll free: 1 800 888 213 7-14 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 103: Automated Order-Status System Order-Status System

    Table 7-2. Dell Contact Numbers (continued) Area Local Number or Department Name or Service Code Toll-Free Number Country (City) Mexico Automated Order-Status System Order-Status System (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) ..... . 512....728-0685...
  • Page 104 ......011 ....709 7700 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com 7-16 6 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 105 Table 7-2. Dell Contact Numbers (continued) Area Local Number or Department Name or Service Code Toll-Free Number Country (City) Southeast Asian/ Customer Technical Support, Customer Service, Pacific Countries and Sales (Penang, Malaysia) ....... .60 4...
  • Page 106 Corporate/Public Sector Sales ....01344 ....860456 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com 7-18 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 107 Dell Sales ........
  • Page 108 7-20 0 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 109: System Specifications

    System BIOS chip m BIOS chip ....4 Mb (512 KB) NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Specifications...
  • Page 110 BIOS address ..... . F0000h NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 111 Hard-disk drive access indicator ..green Diagnostic code indicators... . four bicolor (yellow and green) located on back panel NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Specifications...
  • Page 112 Storage......27-G faired-square wave with a velocity 7-G faired-square wave with a velocity change of 508 cm/sec (200 inches/sec) NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 113 Storage ..... . . –15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft) At 35°C (95°F), the maximum operating altitude is 914 m (3000 ft). NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Specifications...
  • Page 114 A-6 6 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 115: System Setup Program

    • To set or change user-selectable options—for example, the user password Dell recommends that you print the system setup program screens (by pressing <Print Screen>) or write down the information for future reference >) or write down the information for future reference.

  • Page 116: Using The System Setup Program

    Reverts all settings to the initial defaults. Saves changes and exits the program. For System Time and System Date, moves the cursor to the next or previous field. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 117: System Setup Screens And Options

    • Exit screen — Provides selections for saving and loading the configurations and options In addition to these screens, options identified by a right arrow (see Figure B- B-2 for an example) provide access to submenus. support.dell.com System Setup Program...

  • Page 118: Main Screen

    Displays the memory in memory bank 0. Memory Bank 1 Displays the memory in memory bank 1. Processor Serial NOTE: This option is available only for Dell Dimension Lxxxr Number computers. uters. Displays the serial number of the processor when set to Enabled bled.

  • Page 119: Advanced Screen

    “Event Log Configuration Submenu” found later in this appendix. Video Displays the Video Configuration submenu. Refer to “Video Configuration Configuration Submenu” found later in this appendix. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-5 5...

  • Page 120: Boot Configuration Submenu

    This option automatically reverts back to the No setting. Numlock Selects power-on state for Numlock. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 121: Peripheral Configuration Submenu

    If port is set to Enabled, available base I/O addresses are 378 (default), 278, and 228. Address Interrupt If port is set to Enabled, available interrupts are 7 and 5. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program...

  • Page 122: Ide Configuration Submenu

    If set to Disabled, the system cannot detect any drives attached to the controllers and displays None for all four IDE drive options. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 123: Primary Ide Master Submenu

    “Primary IDE Master Submenu” found later in this appendix. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Primary IDE Master Submenu Figure B-6. Primary IDE Master Submenu support.dell.com System Setup Program B-9 9...

  • Page 124: Diskette Configuration Submenu

    (default), Mode 0, Mode 1, Mode 2, Mode 3 3 , or Mode 4. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Diskette Configuration Submenu Figure B-7. Diskette Configuration Submenu B-10 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 125: Event Log Log Configuration Submenu

    Available or No Space Available. Event Log Validity Displays the validity of the event log (Valid or Invalid). View Event Log Press <Enter> to view the log. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-11...

  • Page 126: Video Configuration Submenu

    Function Primary Video y Video Selects Onboard or PCI as the active video controller when Adapter the system boots. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. B-12 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 127: Security Screen

    View Only allows the user to view the setup screens but changes cannot be made. Full (default) allows the user to change all setup options. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-13 3...

  • Page 128: Boot Screen

    This option controls how the system responds to a PCI power management enabled (PME) wakeup event. The selections are Power On or Stays Off (default). NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. B-14 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 129 Settings for this option are the same as for 1st Boot Device vice. * Where SCSI or Network is the name of the installed device. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-15...

  • Page 130: Exit Screen

    Discards any changes you have made and reverts all options to their last saved settings, but does not exit the system setup program. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. B-16 6 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 131: Disabling A Forgotten Password

    NOTICE: This procedure requires entering Maintenance mode, which returns all options in the system setup program to their default settings. Dell strongly recommends that you record or print all current settings before entering Maintenance mode so that you can correct them when the system is reset to Normal mode.

  • Page 132: Clearing Nvram

    (+) key to change the setting to +) key to change the setting to Yes (refer to Table B-4). Press <F10> to exit the program and m and restart the system. B-18 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 133: System Messages

    If a malfunction is detected and the computer fails to boot, the indicators display a code that identifies the problem. In this situation, write down the diagnostic code dis- played and look it up in Table C-1. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Message Messages...
  • Page 134 Chapter 5. If the problem persists, refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining techni- cal assistance. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 135: Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, And System Messages

    Chapter 6. If the problem per- sists, refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages C-3 3...
  • Page 136 Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. System has started and No action is necessary. turned over control to the operating system. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 137: Diagnostic Codes

    Error ured correctly. Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical C: Drive assistance. Failure NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages...
  • Page 138 Refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting INTR1 Error the system board failed Help,” for instructions on obtain- POST. ing technical assistance. INTR2 Error NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. C-6 6 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 139 No ROM BASIC cannot be located on and confirm that drive A or drive drive A or drive C. C is properly identified. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages...
  • Page 140 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 141: Regulatory Notices

    World Wide Web at http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Compliance/WWW/ mpliance/WWW/ tvibook.html. Dell computer systems are designed, tested, and classified for their intended electro- puter systems are designed, tested, and classified for their intended electro- magnetic environment. These electromagnetic environment classifications generally refer to the following harmonized definitions: •...

  • Page 142: Fcc Notices (U.s. Only

    EMC classification for the intended environment. For parallel printers, a cable is available from Dell Computer Corporation. If you prefer, you can order a cable from Dell Com- puter Corporation on the World Wide Web at http://www.dell.com/ products/dellware/index.htm.

  • Page 143: Class B

    78682 USA 512-338-4400 IC Notice (Canada Only) Most Dell computer systems (and other Dell digital apparatus) are classified by the nd other Dell digital apparatus) are classified by the Industry Canada (IC) Interference-Causing Equipment Standard #3 (ICES-003) as Class B digital devices. To determine which classification (Class A or B) applies to your B digital devices.

  • Page 144: Ce Notice (European Union

    This Dell device is classified for use in a typical Class B domestic environment. A “Declaration of Conformity” in accordance with the preceding directives and stan- dards has been made and is on file at Dell Products Europe BV, Limerick, Ireland. Europe BV, Limerick, Ireland.

  • Page 145: Vcci Notice (Japan Only

    VCCI Notice (Japan Only) Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Voluntary Control Council for Inter- ference (VCCI) as Class B information technology equipment (ITE). However, the However, the inclusion of certain options can change the rating of some configurations to Class A.

  • Page 146: Class B Ite

    Install and use the equipment according to the instruction manual. Figure D-2. VCCI Class B ITE Regulatory Mark Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 147: Nom Information (Mexico Only

    Exporter: Dell Computer Corporation Computer Corporation One Dell Way Round Rock, TX 78682 Importer: : Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - 11° Piso - 11° Piso Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F .
  • Page 148 Avenida Soles No. 55 Col. Peñon de los Baños 15520 México, D.F . 0 México, D.F . Tensión alimentación: 115/230 VAC Frecuencia: 60/50 Hz Consumo de corriente: 6.0/3.0 A ó 4.0/2.0 A D-8 8 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 149: Coverage During Year One

    This limited warranty does not cover any items that are in one or more of the follow- ing categories: software; external devices (except as specifically noted); accessories or parts added to a Dell system after the system is shipped from Dell; accessories or parts added to a Dell system through Dell’s system integration department; accesso- ries or parts that are not installed in the Dell factory;...

  • Page 150: Coverage During Years Two And Three

    The warranty term for a replacement part is the remainder of the limited war- ranty term. You will pay Dell for replacement parts if the replaced part is not returned to Dell. The process for returning replaced parts, and your obligation to pay for replacement parts if you do not return the replaced parts to Dell, will be in accordance with Dell’s...

  • Page 151: Three-Year Limited Warranty (Canada Only

    This limited warranty does not cover any items that are in one or more of the follow- ing categories: software; external devices (except as specifically noted); accessories or parts added to a Dell system after the system is shipped from Dell; accessories or parts added to a Dell system through Dell’s system integration department; accesso- ries or parts that are not installed in the Dell factory;...

  • Page 152: Coverage During Years Two And Three

    You will pay Dell for replacement parts if the replaced part is not returned to Dell. The process for returning replaced parts, and your obligation to pay for replacement parts if you do not return the replaced parts to Dell, will be in accordance with Dell’s...

  • Page 153: General Provisions

    If Dell elects to exchange a system or component, the exchange will be made in accordance with Dell’s Exchange Policy in effect on the date of the exchange. In any...

  • Page 154: Making A Claim

    Guarantee will be the end user’s sole and exclusive remedy against Dell or any of its affiliates, and neither Dell nor any of its affiliates shall be liable for loss of profit or con- tracts, or any other indirect or consequential loss arising from negligence, breach of contract, or howsoever.
  • Page 155 If you are an end-user customer who bought new products directly from a Dell com- pany, you may return them to Dell within 30 days of the date of invoice for a refund or 30 days of the date of invoice for a refund or credit of the product purchase price.
  • Page 156 E-8 8 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 157 Boot screen, system setup program, list of, 2-7 B-14 cover removing and replacing, 2-2 cables, drive interface, 3-4 cache memory, A-1 DC power cables, 2-5 calling Dell, 7-6 Dell Diagnostics, 4-9 card-edge connector, 3-5 Dell Dimension ResourceCD, urceCD, 4-10, 5-2 cautions, x support.dell.com Index...
  • Page 158 1-2 hard-disk drives dual in-line memory modules. See data recovery, 1-4 DIMMs EIDE support on system board, 1-2 troubleshooting, 4-8, 6-7 upgrading, 3-10 0 hardware options. See upgrade options Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 159 2-9 notes, x notices, x NVRAM clearing, B-18 keyboard cleaning, 1-5 keys and key combinations Dell Diagnostics, 4-13 system setup program, B-2 operating systems supported, 1-2 line conditioners, 1-7 partitioning EIDE hard-disk drives, 3-12 logical formatting, 3-12 passwords disabling, B-3...
  • Page 160 Primary IDE Master submenu, IDE Master submenu, B-9 drivers, 5-2 Security screen, B-12 for configuring system, B-1 system configuration information, B-1 included with system, 1-2 using, B-2 software features, 1-2 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 161 4-1 incompatibilities, 5-4 typographical conventions, xi Windows Me power management features, 5-1 reinstalling, 5-7 7 resolving software and hardware incompatibilities, 5-4 World Wide Web help tools, 7-2 wrist grounding strap, 1-5 support.dell.com Index...
  • Page 162 Dell Dimension L Series Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

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