Page 1 Dell™ OptiPlex™ GX50 Systems User’s Guide 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 Computer Corporation is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell , the DELL logo, Inspiron , Dimension , Latitude , Dell Precision , DellNet , and OptiPlex are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Intel is a registered trademark and Celeron is a trademark of Intel Corporation;...
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Contents Safety Instructions When Working Inside Your Computer Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge Ergonomic Computing Habits 1 About Your Computer Front View ......Front Panel Door Speaker/Headphone Connector Power Button...
Page 4 LegacySelect Technology Control Manageability ......Dell OpenManage IT Assistant Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation Security .
Page 5 Removing an Expansion Card ....Expansion Card Cage (Small Desktop Computer Only) Removing the Expansion-Card Cage Replacing the Expansion-Card Cage Memory ....... Installing DIMMs .
Page 6 Battery ....... Replacing the Battery 4 Microsoft® Windows® XP Features Overview .
Page 7 Dell Diagnostics ......When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Features ......
Page 8 ......Problems With Your Order Product Information Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Before You Call Dell Contact Numbers 8 Additional Information Regulatory Notices FCC Notices (U.S. Only) IC Notice (Canada Only)
Page 9 Battery Disposal ..... . . CCIB Notice (China Only) EN 55022 Compliance (Czech Republic Only) VCCI Notice (Japan Only) MIC Notice (Republic of Korea Only) Polish Center for Testing and Certification Notice Wymagania Polskiego Centrum BadaÒ...
Page 10 Conte n ts...
Page 11: Safety Instructions
NOTICE: Do not attempt to service the computer yourself, except as explained in your online Dell documentation or otherwise provided to you. Always follow installation and service instructions closely. NOTICE: To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before removing a component from the system board or disconnecting a device from the computer.
Page 12: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge
• Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge Static electricity can harm delicate components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components, such as the microprocessor. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
Page 13: Ergonomic Computing Habits
• Position your computer 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 14 1 Monitor screen at or below eye level 2 Monitor and keyboard positioned directly in 3 Feet flat on the floor front of the user 4 Arms at desk level 5 Wrists relaxed and flat...
Page 15: About Your Computer
S E C T I O N 1 A b o u t Yo u r C o m p u t e r Finding Information and Assistance Front View Back View Inside Your Computer Removing and Attaching the Computer Stand...
Page 16: Finding Information And Assistance
Finding Information and Assistance The following table lists the resources that Dell provides as support tools. Additional resources may be shipped with your computer system. Resources Contents Dell OptiPlex ResourceCD • Dell Diagnostics • Drivers • Utilities • Computer and device...
Page 17 Resources Contents Operating system CD Operating system installation guide User’s guides for your computer and devices User’s Guides Using the Resource Use the operating system CD, which was shipped with your computer, to reinstall your operating system. NOTE: The operating system CD may not include all the latest drivers for your computer.
Page 18: Front View
• Join online discussions with other Dell customers and Dell technical professionals • Explore a list of online links to Dell's primary vendors Go to premiersupport.dell.com: The Dell Premier Support website is customized for corporate, government, education, and healthcare customers.
Page 19 USB connectors (2) Headphone connector Hard drive access lights Power button Power light S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r 1 Front panel door 2 Power button 3 Power light 4 Hard drive access light 5 Floppy drive access light...
Page 20 S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r 1 Removable CD drive panel 2 Floppy drive access light 3 Removable floppy drive panel 4 Hard drive access light 5 Power button 6 Power light 7 Front panel door...
Page 21: Front Panel Door
Front Panel Door Open the front panel door to access two Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors and the headphone connector. This door is removable; if you remove it or accidentally knock it off its hinges, it snaps back in place. S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r 1 USB connectors (2) 2 Headphone connector...
Page 22: Speaker/Headphone Connector
S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r 1 Breakaway hinges (2) 2 USB connectors (2) 3 Headphone connector Speaker/Headphone Connector Used to connect computer speakers, headphones, or other audio output devices.
Page 23 ® ® The Microsoft Windows 98, Windows 98 Second Edition (SE), Windows 2000, and Windows XP operating systems let you configure the function of the power button through the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) feature, as shown in the following table. NOTICE: To turn off your computer, perform an orderly computer shutdown using the operating system menu when possible.
Page 24: Power Light
P o w e r B u t t o n F u n c t i o n s f o r M i c r o s o f t W i n d o w s N T Action Press power button Hold power button for 6 seconds* Computer turns...
Page 25: Floppy Drive Access Light
“Diagnostic Lights” for a description of nonnormal indications. Floppy Drive Access Light The floppy drive access light lights when the drive is reading data from, or writing data to, a floppy disk. Wait until this light turns off before you remove the floppy from the drive.
Page 26 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r 1 PCI slots (2) 2 AC adapter Ab o u t You r C o mp u t er...
Page 27 S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r 1 AC adapter 2 AC voltage switch 3 AGP slot 4 PCI slots (4) Ab o u t Yo u r C o m p u te r...
Page 28: Connecting Devices
I / O P a n e l — S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r, D e s k t o p , a n d M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r s Connecting Devices When you connect external devices to your computer's back panel, follow...
Page 29: Parallel Connector
Mouse Connector Turn off the computer and any attached devices before connecting a mouse to the computer. If your computer uses Microsoft Windows 2000 or Windows NT 4.0, Dell installed the necessary mouse drivers on your hard drive. USB Connectors These are used to attach USB-compliant devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, and computer speakers to your computer.
Page 30: Line-In Jack
Connect the audio cable from the speakers to this jack. Microphone Jack This jack is used to attach a standard personal computer microphone. Connect the audio cable from the microphone to the microphone jack. Serial Port Connectors Default port designations: COM1 for serial port 1 and COM2 for serial port 2.
Page 31: Inside Your Computer
Inside Your Computer S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r 1 Hard drive 2 3.5-inch floppy drive 3 CD drive 4 Cover release buttons (2) 10 I/O ports and connectors 5 Internal speaker 11 Padlock ring...
Page 32 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r 1 Cover release buttons (2) 2 Hard drive 3 Internal speaker 4 Chassis intrusion switch 5 Expansion-card cage 6 Power supply 7 Expansion-card slots Ab o u t You r C o mp u t er AC power connector...
Page 33 S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r 1 Cover release buttons (2) 2 Hard drive 3 Internal speaker 10 Microprocessor and airflow shroud 4 Chassis intrusion switch 11 Power supply 5 System board 12 3.5-inch floppy drive...
Page 34: System Board Components
C a b l e C o l o r s Hard drive Floppy drive CD drive ATA or IDE Control panel CD audio Computer audio System Board Components The following figure shows the principal connectors and components on the system board.
Page 35 Front of Computer Back of Computer Ab o u t Yo u r C o m p u te r...
Page 36 S y s t e m B o a r d L a b e l s Connector or Socket Description AUDIO AUX_PWR BATTERY CD_IN DIAG_LED DIMM_A and DIMM_B DSKT FRONTAUDIO FRONTPANEL IDE1 IDE2 Ab o u t You r C o mp u t er Floppy drive connector 13 Front panel audio connector Battery...
Page 37: Removing And Attaching The Computer Stand
Connector or Socket Description KYBD_MOUSE Keyboard and mouse connectors MICROPROCESSOR Microprocessor connector MODEM Telephony connector MONITOR Video connector NIC_USB Integrated network adapter connector and USB connectors PAR_SER1_SER2 Parallel and serial connectors PCI1, PCI2, PCI3, and PCI expansion card connectors PCI4 POWER Main power input connector PSWD...
Page 38 S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r S t a n d Ab o u t You r C o mp u t er...
Page 39 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r S t a n d To attach the computer stand, perform the following steps: Place the computer on its right side so that the drive bays are at the bottom.
Page 40 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 41: Advanced Features
S E C T I O N 2 A d v a n c e d Fe a t u r e s LegacySelect Technology Control Manageability Security Password Protection Computer Settings Additional System Setup Options Jumper Settings Software Installation and Configuration...
Page 42: Legacyselect Technology Control
The instrumentation available for your computer is Dell OpenManage Client instrumentation, which is based on DMI and CIM. For more information on IT Assistant, see the Dell OpenManage IT Assistant User’s Guide available on the Dell website. Ad v a n c ed Fe a tu r es...
Page 43: Dell Openmanage Client Instrumentation
Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation is software that enables remote management application programs such as IT Assistant to do the following: • Access information about your computer, such as how many processors it has and what operating system it is running •...
Page 44: Security Cable Slot And Padlock Ring
System Password System passwords allow only those who know the password to have full use of the computer. Your Dell computer does not have the system password feature enabled when you receive it. Ad v a n c ed Fe a tu r es Enabled —...
Page 45 NOTICE: Although passwords provide security for the data on your computer, they are not foolproof. If your data requires more security, it is your responsibility to obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as data encryption programs. NOTICE: If you leave your computer running and unattended without having a system password assigned, or if you leave your computer unlocked so that someone can disable the password by changing a jumper setting, anyone can access the data stored on your hard drive.
Page 46 NOTE: To escape from the field without assigning a system password, press <Tab> or the <Shift><Tab> combination to move to another field, or press <Esc> at any time prior to completing step 5. Using Your System Password When you turn on your computer or press the reset button, or when you reboot the computer by pressing the <Ctrl><Alt><Del>...
Page 47: Setup Password
Password." Setup Password Setup passwords allow only those who know the password to have full use of system setup. Your Dell computer does not have the setup password feature enabled when you receive it. Setup Password options in system setup: •...
Page 48: Disabling A Forgotten Password
Assigning a Setup Password NOTE: The setup password can be the same as the system password. A change to Setup Password becomes effective immediately (rebooting the NOTE: If the two passwords are different, computer is not required). the setup password can be used as an alternate Operating Your Computer With a Setup Password Enabled system password.
Page 49: Computer Settings
CAUTION: Before you open the computer cover, see Instructions." Open the computer cover. Remove the jumper plug from the PSWD jumper to disable the password feature. "Jumper Settings" to locate the password jumper (labeled "PSWD") on the system board. Close the computer cover. Reconnect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and then turn them on.
Page 50: Entering System Setup
• • You can view the current settings at any time. Dell recommends that you print the system setup screens (by pressing <Print Screen>) or record the information for future reference. Before you use system setup, you need to know the kind of floppy drive(s) and hard drive(s) installed in your computer.
Page 51 Fields to the right of the option titles contain settings or values. Those you can change appear bright on the screen. Those you cannot change (because they are set by the computer) appear less bright. When <Enter> appears to the right of an option title, press <Enter> to access a popup menu of additional options.
Page 52: Changing The Boot Sequence
S y s t e m S e t u p N a v i g a t i o n K e y s Keys spacebar or Changing the Boot Sequence The boot sequence allows you to specify the order of the devices from which the computer will attempt to boot.
Page 53 Boot Sequence. When you select this option, the computer prompts you to press <Ctrl><Alt><b> at the Dell logo screen during computer boot. A menu then appears that allows you to select PXE, RPL, BootP , or NetWare as the active boot mode. If a boot routine is not available from the network server, the computer tries to boot from the next device in the boot sequence list.
Page 54: Additional System Setup Options
Additional System Setup Options • • • • • Ad v a n c ed Fe a tu r es AC Power Recovery determines what happens when AC power is restored to the computer. When Off is selected, the computer remains off when AC power is restored.
Page 55 To toggle between the rated processor speed and the compatibility speed while the computer is running in real mode, press <Ctrl><Alt><\>. (For keyboards that do not use American English, press <Ctrl><Alt><#>.) – Bus Speed indicates the speed of the microprocessor's system bus, or front-side bus (FSB).
Page 56 On, Off, or On w/ MBA. The default is On. If you select On w/ MBA, you are prompted to press <Ctrl><Alt><b> at the Dell logo screen during computer boot. A menu then appears that allows you to select PXE, RPL, BootP, or NetWare as the active boot mode.
Page 57 NOTE: When two COM ports share an IRQ setting, you can use either port as necessary, but you may not be able to use them both at the same time. If you are running the Microsoft® Windows® 95 or IBM® OS/2® operating system, you cannot use both serial ports at the same time.
Page 58 • Ad v a n c ed Fe a tu r es With Read Only selected, nothing can be written to any floppy drive or tape drive using the computer's integrated floppy/tape drive controller. (The computer can still read from the drives.) When Read Only is selected, Auto is also in effect, meaning that the computer turns off the integrated floppy drive controller as necessary.
Page 59 (labeled "IDE2"). Use the secondary EIDE interface connector for EIDE CD drives and EIDE tape drives. NOTE: For all devices obtained from Dell that use the integrated EIDE controller, set the appropriate Drive option to Auto. NOTE: You must have an EIDE device connected to the primary EIDE interface if you have an EIDE device connected to the secondary EIDE interface.
Page 60: If You Have A Problem
If no device is listed, it sets the device setting to Off in system setup. If your computer does not reset after you perform these steps, enter system setup and reset the computer to its original Dell settings. Jumper Settings The following figure shows the jumper on the system board.
Page 61 S y s t e m B o a r d J u m p e r NOTICE: Make sure that your computer is turned off and unplugged before you change the jumper setting. Otherwise, damage to your computer or unpredictable results may occur.
Page 62: Software Installation And Configuration
Software Installation and Configuration When you obtain software, check it for viruses with virus-scanning software before installing it on your computer's hard drive. Viruses, which are pieces of code that can replicate themselves, can quickly use all available computer memory, damage or destroy data stored on the hard drive, and permanently affect the performance of the programs they infect.
Page 63: Installing Upgrades
S E C T I O N 3 I n s t a l l i n g U p g r a d e s Computer Cover Expansion Cards Expansion Card Cage (Small Desktop Computer Only) Memory Microprocessor Front Panel Inserts Internal Drives Hard Drives Floppy Drives...
Page 64: Opening The Computer Cover
Computer Cover Opening the Computer Cover NOTE: On the small form-factor and small desktop computers, remove the stand before you open the computer cover. S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r C o v e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es CAUTION: Before you open the computer cover, see...
Page 65 1 Security cable slot 2 Padlock ring 3 Release buttons (one on each side) S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r Security cable slot Padlock ring Release buttons (one on each side) In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 66: Closing The Computer Cover
S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r Closing the Computer Cover In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Security cable slot Padlock ring Release buttons (one on each side) Check all cable connections, especially those that might have come...
Page 67: Expansion Cards
If you are using a padlock to secure your computer, reinstall the padlock. Expansion Cards Your computer provides expansion slots for the following cards: • In the small form-factor computer, one low-profile, 32-bit, 33- megahertz (MHz) Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) card. •...
Page 68: Installing An Expansion Card
NOTE: To meet PC99 requirements, your Dell computer uses only PCI expansion slots. Industry- Standard Architecture Installing an Expansion Card (ISA) expansion cards are not supported. In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es...
Page 69 Press the lever on the expansion card retention arm and raise the retention arm. S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r card-edge connector expansion card hinged lever retention arm expansion-card connector...
Page 70 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es lever card-edge connector retention arm expansion-card connector filler bracket riser board expansion card...
Page 71 S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r expansion card card-edge connector expansion-card connector retention arm lever If you are installing a new expansion card, remove the filler bracket for an empty card-slot opening.
Page 72 See the documentation that came with the expansion 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. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any expansion cards.
Page 73 Bracket within slot Bracket caught outside of slot Fully seated card Not fully seated card Before lowering the retention arm, make sure of the following: • Tops of all expansion cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar •...
Page 74 In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Filler bracket Alignment guide Alignment bar Retention arm If you have a small desktop computer, 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 75: Removing An Expansion Card
If you have a small desktop computer, “I/O Panel—Small Form-Factor, Computers”). “Safety “System remove the expansion-card cage. “Installing an Dell. replace the expansion-card cage. In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 76: Expansion Card Cage (Small Desktop Computer Only)
Expansion Card Cage (Small Desktop Computer Only) Removing the Expansion-Card Cage In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on. NOTE: After you open and close the cover, the chassis intrusion detector causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next computer...
Page 77: Replacing The Expansion-Card Cage
Check any cables connected to expansion cards through the back- panel openings. Disconnect any cables that will not reach the expansion-card cage once it is removed from the computer. Gently pull on the handle and lift the expansion-card cage up and away from the computer.
Page 78: Memory
ECC]). When you add memory, you may install DIMMs in either socket. For optimum operation, Dell recommends that you install a DIMM in socket A first (closest to the processor) before installing a DIMM in socket B. In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es...
Page 79: Installing Dimms
Installing DIMMs CAUTION: To avoid the possibility of electric shock, turn off the computer and any devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, and then wait at least 5 seconds before you open the computer cover. Also, before you upgrade memory, see the other precautions in "Safety Instructions."...
Page 80 D I M M I n s t a l l a t i o n 1 Socket 2 Securing clip 3 Slot In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Close the computer cover, reconnect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Page 81: Removing Dimms
When the System Memory total is correct, press <Esc> to exit system setup. Run the Dell Diagnostics to verify that the DIMMs are operating properly. Removing DIMMs To remove a DIMM, press the securing clips outward simultaneously until the DIMM disengages and pops out slightly from the socket.
Page 82: Microprocessor
D I M M R e m o v a l 1 Socket 2 Securing clips (2) Microprocessor NOTE: Dell recommends that only a technically knowledgeable person perform the following procedure. In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es...
Page 83 A i r f l o w S h r o u d R e m o v a l — S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r Anchor tabs Remove the cooling fan/heat sink assembly.
Page 84 M i c r o p r o c e s s o r H e a t S i n k R e m o v a l In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es ZIF socket tab Toggle lever Remove the microprocessor chip from the socket.
Page 85 Leave the release lever extended so that the socket is ready for the new microprocessor. M i c r o p r o c e s s o r R e m o v a l Microprocessor chip Release lever Microprocessor socket NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the...
Page 86 M i c r o p r o c e s s o r C h i p I n s t a l l a t i o n 1 Pin-1 corners of chip and socket aligned In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es The pin-1 corner of the microprocessor is the beveled corner.
Page 87: Front Panel Inserts
Enter system setup and confirm that the Microprocessor option correctly identifies the installed microprocessor. Run the Dell Diagnostics to verify that the new microprocessor is operating correctly. Front Panel Inserts Removing Front Panel Inserts—Small Form-Factor and Small...
Page 88 F r o n t P a n e l C o v e r R e m o v a l — S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r F r o n t P a n e l I n s e r t R e m o v a l —...
Page 89 F r o n t P a n e l C o v e r R e m o v a l — S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r F r o n t P a n e l I n s e r t R e m o v a l —...
Page 90: Removing Front Panel Inserts-Small Mini-Tower Computer
Removing Front Panel Inserts—Small Mini-Tower Computer S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r 1 Insert tabs In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Press on the insert until it pops free of the front panel cover.
Page 91: Replacing Front Panel Inserts
F r o n t P a n e l I n s e r t R e m o v a l — S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r Replacing Front Panel Inserts To replace a front panel insert, follow the “Removing Front Panel Inserts”...
Page 92 S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es CD drive Floppy drive Hard drive...
Page 93 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r CD drive Floppy drive Hard drive In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 94: Ide Drive Addressing
S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r IDE Drive Addressing All IDE devices require that you configure the cable select setting, which assigns master and slave status to devices according to their position on the interface cable.
Page 95: Connecting Drives
With the two IDE interface connectors on the system board, your computer supports up to two IDE devices. IDE hard drives should be connected to the IDE interface connector labeled “IDE1.” (Always connect CD drives to the IDE interface connector labeled “IDE2.”) Connecting Drives When you install a drive, you connect two cables—a DC power cable and an interface cable—to the back of the drive.
Page 96 In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es D r i v e I n t e r f a c e C o n n e c t o r s Header connector Colored stripe on the cable Interface cable When you attach the interface cable to a drive, be sure to match the colored...
Page 97: Hard Drives
NOTICE: When you connect an interface cable, do not reverse the interface cable (do not place the colored stripe away from pin 1 of the connector). Reversing the cable prevents the drive from operating and could damage the controller, the drive, or both. Hard Drives CAUTION: To avoid the possibility of electric shock, turn off the...
Page 98: Detaching Hard Drive Cables
H a r d - D r i v e S h r o u d R e m o v a l Detaching Hard Drive Cables Disconnect the power cable and hard drive cable from the drive. In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es...
Page 99 S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r Power cable Hard drive cable In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 100 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r 1 Hard drive cable 2 Power cable In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es...
Page 101: Removing A Hard Drive
S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r Power cable Hard drive cable On the small form-factor computer, if the computer has the combination data cable, disconnect the combination data cable from the floppy drive and interface (IDE2) connectors on the system board (see the small form-factor computer illustration in Drive...
Page 102 S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Notch in drive rail Tabs (2) For the small desktop and small mini-tower computers, press in on the tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out.
Page 103 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r Tabs (2) Hard drive S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 104: Installing A Hard Drive
1 Tabs (2) 2 Hard drive Installing a Hard Drive In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es CAUTION: To avoid the possibility of electric shock, turn off the computer and any devices, disconnect them from electrical outlets, and then wait 10 to 20 seconds before you open the computer cover.
Page 105: Reattaching Hard Drive Cables
H a r d D r i v e B r a c k e t R a i l s Drive Bracket rails (2) Screws (4) Install the hard drive into the computer by gently sliding the drive into place until you hear it securely click.
Page 106 S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Power cable IDE cable IDE1 connector...
Page 107 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r Power cable IDE cable IDE1 connector In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 108 S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r 1 Power cable 2 IDE cable 3 IDE1 connector In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.
Page 109: Adding A Second Hard Drive - Small Mini-Tower Computer
NOTICE: Do not install a drive into the lower hard-drive bay until you remove the green drive rails from inside the hard-drive bay. Dell Diagnostics. In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 110 S e c o n d H a r d D r i v e I n s t a l l a t i o n 1 Rail tabs (2) 2 Second hard drive in upper bay 3 First hard drive in lower bay 4 Hard drive cage In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Remove the first hard drive from the upper bay and install it in the...
Page 111: Floppy Drives
NOTICE: Match the colored strip on the cable with pin 1 on the drive. Locate the extra connector on the drive cable that is attached to you first hard drive and attach the connector to the second hard drive. Floppy Drives CAUTION: To avoid the possibility of electric shock, turn off the computer and any devices, disconnect them from their electrical...
Page 112 S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Floppy drive cable Interposer board System board floppy drive connector (DSKT) To release the cable from the connector, slide the lever until it is fully extended and then lift the cable away.
Page 113 Floppy drive cable Lever In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 114 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Power cable Floppy drive cable Floppy drive connector...
Page 115: Removing A Floppy Drive
S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r 1 Power cable 2 Floppy drive cable 3 Floppy drive connector Removing a Floppy Drive On the small form-factor computer, remove the floppy drive from its sled by pulling the sled tab out while pushing the drive up and then sliding the drive out of the sled.
Page 116 S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r 1 Sled tab 2 Sled In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es On the small desktop and small mini-tower computers, press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive bay to disengage the drive from the computer.
Page 117 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 118: Installing A Floppy Drive And Reattaching Cables
Installing a Floppy Drive and Reattaching Cables Small Form-Factor Computer In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Snap the replacement floppy drive into the sled and ensure that it is secure in the sled. Gently slide the floppy drive into the computer until the tabs securely click into position.
Page 119 S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r Connector notch Interposer board alignment hole Floppy drive cable Lever Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.
Page 120 Gently slide the drive into place until the tabs securely click into position. Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive, and connect the other end of the data cable to the connector labeled “DSKT” on the system board. Dell...
Page 121 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r Power cable Floppy drive cable Floppy drive connector In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 122 Enter system setup and update the appropriate Diskette Drive A option to reflect the size and capacity of your new floppy drive. Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Diagnostics. Dell...
Page 123: Cd Drives
CD Drives CAUTION: To avoid the possibility of electric shock, turn off the computer and any devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, and then wait 10 to 20 seconds before you open the computer cover. Also, before you install a drive, see the other precautions in “Safety Instructions.”...
Page 124 I n t e r p o s e r B o a r d R e m o v a l Interposer board In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es...
Page 125 On the small desktop and small mini-tower computers, remove the data, power, and audio cables from the drive. S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r Power cable Audio cable CD drive cable CD drive connector...
Page 126 S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Power cable Audio cable CD drive cable CD drive connector...
Page 127: Removing A Cd Drive
Removing a CD Drive Press inward on the two tabs on the sides of the drive to disengage the drive from the computer. Slide the drive upward and remove it from the computer. S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 128 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es...
Page 129: Installing A Cd Drive And Reattaching Cables
If a set of rails is not attached to the inside of the cover, contact Dell. C D D r i v e B r a c k e t R a i l s...
Page 130 I n t e r p o s e r B o a r d C o n n e c t i o n — S m a l l Fo r m - Fa c t o r C o m p u t e r 1 Interposer board Connect the drive, power, and audio cables to the drive.
Page 131 S m a l l D e s k t o p C o m p u t e r Power cable Audio cable CD drive cable CD drive connector In s ta l l i n g U p gr a d e s...
Page 132 S m a l l M i n i -To w e r C o m p u t e r In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es Power cable Audio cable CD drive cable CD drive connector If you are installing a drive that has its own controller card, install the controller card in an expansion card slot.
Page 133: Battery
If the date and time are not correct in system setup, replace your battery. front panel Primary for more information. Dell NOTE: Problems may arise if two expansion cards are trying to use the same resources: memory, I/O addresses, and IRQs.
Page 134: Replacing The Battery
You can operate your computer without a battery; however, without a battery, the configuration information is erased if the computer is turned off or unplugged from the electrical outlet. In this case, you must enter system setup and reset the configuration options. Replacing the Battery To replace the battery, perform the following steps: In s ta l l i n g Up g r a d es...
Page 135 R e p l a c i n g t h e C o m p u t e r B a t t e r y Battery Battery socket Close the computer cover, reconnect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
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Page 137: Microsoft® Windows® Xp Features
S E C T I O N 4 ® M i c r o s o f t X P Fe a t u r e s Overview New User Interface Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Application and Device Compatibility System Restore User Accounts and Fast User Switching Home and Small Office Networking...
Page 138: Overview
Overview Based on an enhanced version of the Windows 2000 operating system, Windows XP is available in consumer and business editions: Windows XP Home Edition and Windows XP Professional. The features discussed are available in both editions, but the Professional version, designed for business environments, includes additional productivity, security, networking, and management features important in business environments.
Page 139: New User Interface
Start menu. The right half of the new Start menu contains useful icons for accessing your files, configuring the computer, and finding information and assistance. The Dell Solution Center icon opens a portal to services and application programs installed on your Dell computer.
Page 140: Clean Desktop Wizard
If you prefer the classic window and button appearance, perform the following steps: Clean Desktop Wizard Another feature of Windows XP is the Desktop Cleanup Wizard. The wizard runs 7 days after you first start your computer and every 60 days after that.
Page 141: Taskbar Grouping
The shortcuts are moved to the folder C:\Desktop Icons. To access desktop icons removed by Windows XP, click the Start button, and then click Dell Solution Center. Taskbar Grouping The Windows taskbar is a row of buttons that typically displays across the bottom of the screen.
Page 142: Files And Settings Transfer Wizard
Files and Settings Transfer Wizard The Files and Settings Transfer Wizard is used to migrate personal files and settings from one computer to another (for instance, when upgrading to a new computer). Personal files include the documents, images, spreadsheets, presentations, and e-mail messages on your computer. User settings include display properties, window sizes, toolbar settings, dial-up connections, Internet bookmarks, and so forth on your computer.
Page 143: Application And Device Compatibility
Application and Device Compatibility Although Windows XP is designed to be compatible with a wide range of application programs and hardware devices, some older programs and devices may not be usable. Check the Microsoft Web site at www.microsoft.com for application programs and hardware devices known to be compatible.
Page 144: System Restore
System Restore The System Restore feature of Windows XP provides the capability to restore the operating system, in the event of a problem, to a previous state without losing personal data files (such as Word documents, drawings, or e- mail). System Restore actively monitors system file changes and some application file changes to record or store previous versions before the changes occurred.
Page 145: Using System Restore
NOTE: Dell recommends that you make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor changes to or recover your data files. In...
Page 146: Restore Process
• • • • Manual Restore Points If you are logged on to the computer as computer administrator or as a user with administrator rights, you may create and name an on-demand restore point. (For information on types of user accounts, see This is useful to create a checkpoint to return to before making a particularly risky change, before leaving a shared system to other users, or at a particular state you believe is optimal.
Page 147: Driver Rollback
To return your computer to a previous, stable condition, perform the following steps: Click the Start button, point to All Programs—> Accessories—> System Tools, and then click System Restore. Select Restore my computer to an earlier time and click Next>. The Select a Restore Point screen appears.
Page 148: User Accounts And Fast User Switching
User Accounts and Fast User Switching Microsoft Windows XP includes a new feature that provides multiuser NOTE: Fast User Switching is the default access to a single computer. Fast User Switching, which is available in both user screen for both Home the Home and Professional editions, allows users to access the computer and Professional editions, with their specific settings, including the desktop and various applications,...
Page 149: What Happens When A Fast User Switch Occurs
What Happens When a Fast User Switch Occurs? When a fast user switch occurs, the original user is not logged off the computer as previously happened on other Microsoft operating systems. On Windows XP, the user's logon remains active, but is replaced by the new user.
Page 150: How To Turn Off Fast User Switching
How to Turn Off Fast User Switching You must have a computer administrator account on the computer to turn off Fast User Switching. (For information on types of accounts, see To disable Fast User Switching, perform the following steps: How to Add Users Only a computer administrator or a user with administrator rights can create multiple user accounts.
Page 151: Home And Small Office Networking
Under Pick an account type, click the bullet next to the type of account you are going to create — Computer administrator, Standard, or Limited. • Computer administrators can change all computer settings. • Standard account users (Windows XP Professional only) can install some programs and hardware.
Page 152: Internet Connection Firewall
Internet Connection Firewall Today's always-on cable modem and DSL Internet access connections offer unprecedented bandwidth to the home, but also leave the connected computer or home network vulnerable to hacker attacks. The nature of these attacks varies, but the goal is to gain access to individual computers attached to the Internet.
Page 153 The firewall is configured using the Properties dialog box associated with each Internet connection in the Control Panel. The firewall can be enabled or disabled. Additional configuration options are available for more advanced users. These advanced options include the ability to open or close specific Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) or User Datagram Protocol (UDP) ports or to enable port redirection.
Page 154 Micros of t ® Window s® X P Feat ures...
Page 155 S E C T I O N 5 Te c h n i c a l S p e c i f i c a t i o n s Processor Memory Computer Information Graphics (Optional) and Video Audio Expansion Bus Drives Ports Key Combinations...
Page 156 Processor Microprocessor type Internal cache Level 2 (L2) cache memory Math coprocessor Memory Architecture Dual in-line memory module (DIMM) sockets DIMM capacities Computer random-access memory (RAM) Basic input/output system (BIOS) address Computer Information Computer chip set Data bus width Address bus width Direct memory access (DMA) channels Interrupts...
Page 157 Graphics accelerator Embedded Intel Dynamic Video Memory Technology (DVMT) Graphics memory Dynamically assigned from computer memory Video resolutions 640 x 480 pixels; 85 hertz (Hz) max refresh rate (display supports some or all of with 16.7 million colors these resolutions) 800 x 600 pixels;...
Page 158 Small mini-tower computer expansion-card connectors: PCI expansion-card connector size 120 pins PCI expansion-card connector data width (maximum) Drives Internally accessible bays: Externally accessible bays: Ports Externally accessible: Te c h n ic a l Sp e c if ic a tio n s four PCI expansion slots (card sizes = three slots support cards up to 27.9 cm high [11 inches, and one slot supports a card up to 22.9...
Page 159 PS/2-compatible mouse 6-pin mini-DIN on the back I/O panel Universal Serial Bus (USB) two USB-compliant connectors on the back I/O panel; two on the front panel Internally accessible: Primary IDE hard drive 40-pin connector on PCI local bus Secondary IDE hard drive 40-pin connector on PCI local bus Floppy drive 34-pin connector...
Page 160 Link integrity light (on integrated network adapter connector) Activity light (on integrated network adapter connector) Diagnostic lights Auxiliary power light Power DC power supply: Backup battery Physical Small form-factor chassis: Small desktop chassis: Te c h n ic a l Sp e c if ic a tio n s green light for 10-Mb operation;...
Page 161 Weight 9.9 kg (22 lbs) Small mini-tower computer: Height 42.5 cm (16.7 inches) Width 18.1 cm (7.1 inches) Depth 44.7 cm (17.6 inches) Weight 12.7 kg (28 lbs) Environmental Temperature: Operating 10° to 35° Celsius (C) (50° to 95° Fahrenheit [F]) Storage -40°...
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Page 163: Solving Problems
S E C T I O N 6 S o l v i n g P r o b l e m s Finding Solutions Dell Diagnostics Messages and Codes Software Problems BIOS Recovery Utility...
Page 164: Finding Solutions
Finding Solutions This section describes computer and software problems, offers corrective actions, describes the utility, and provides computer messages and codes. Before you call Dell for technical assistance, complete the following tasks to help you resolve computer problems: Read Take the problem-solving action listed in the following table for the component or equipment that is malfunctioning.
Page 165: Power Problems
If the external monitor is blank, the computer may be in suspend or hibernate mode. To resume normal operation, press the power button. "Resetting a Damaged System Board" "Messages and Codes" "Messages and Codes" Contact Dell for technical S o lv ing Pr o ble m s...
Page 166 • • • • • • • If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostics Checklist So lv ing Pr o ble m s Disconnect the monitor cable from the computer and check the cable connector for bent or broken pins.
Page 167: Sound And Speaker Problems
Run the VESA/VGA Interface tests in the Did any of the tests fail? Yes. The video controller on the system board may be defective. Contact Dell for technical assistance. No. Go to step 6. Turn off the computer and the monitor, connect another monitor to the computer, and then turn them on.
Page 168: Printer Problems
No. Go to step 3. Run the Misc. PCI Devices tests in the Did the tests complete successfully? Yes. The controller is functioning properly. If the problem persists, contact Dell for technical assistance. Contact Dell for technical assistance. Disconnect the cable from the computer and check the cable connector for bent or broken pins.
Page 169: Serial Or Parallel Device Problems
Yes. Go to step 3. No. The printer is probably defective. If you bought the printer from Dell, contact Dell for technical assistance. If you did not, take it to an authorized service center for repair. Try to print again.
Page 170 I/O port logic and the printer. Do the tests complete successfully? Yes. Go to step 3. Contact Dell for technical assistance. If the problem is confined to a particular application program, see the application program's documentation for specific port configuration requirements.
Page 171: Mouse Problems
Turn off the computer and the device, swap the device with a comparable working device, and then turn on the computer and the device. Is the device working properly? Yes. You need a new device. Contact Dell Contact Dell for technical assistance. Mouse Problems Basic Checks: •...
Page 172: Keyboard Problems
Is the mouse functioning properly? Yes. The original mouse is defective. The problem is resolved. Contact Dell for technical assistance. Disconnect the cable from the computer and check the cable connector for bent or broken pins. Check for damaged or frayed cables.
Page 173: Floppy Drive Problems
No. Go to step 7. Use the keyboard to type some characters. Do the characters appear on the screen? Yes. The problem is resolved. Contact Dell for technical assistance. Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Did any of the diagnostics tests fail? Yes.
Page 174 • • If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Dell Diagnostics So lv ing Pr o ble m s If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound when a drive is accessed, there could be a hardware malfunction.
Page 175: Hard Drive Problems
Does the floppy-drive access light blink during the boot routine? Yes. Go to the next question. Contact Dell for technical assistance. Does the computer display a drive error message? Yes. See "Computer...
Page 176 If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostic Checklist So lv ing Pr o ble m s – For Windows 2000, run the ScanDisk utility by clicking the Start button, pointing to Run, typing –...
Page 177 Does the hard drive activity light blink during the boot routine? Yes. Go to the next question. No. The system board may be faulty. assistance. Dell Diagnostics: Contact Dell for technical Contact Dell for technical system board. Contact Dell...
Page 178: Battery Problems
Messages" for an explanation of the message. If you cannot correct the problem by performing the action described in the table, then contact Dell for technical assistance. No. Go to the next question. Is this the primary hard drive that contains the operating system? Yes.
Page 179: Expansion Card Problems
If any cables appear loose, reconnect them. For instructions on which cables should be attached to specific connectors on an expansion card, see the expansion card's documentation. Contact Dell for technical "Safety S o lv ing Pr o ble m s...
Page 180: Recover From A Program That Is Not Responding
Close the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on. Run the RAM test group in the Dell Diagnostics. Did any of the diagnostics tests fail? Yes.
Page 181: Restart A Computer That Is Not Responding
Does the computer have power? Yes. Proceed to step 6. Contact Dell for technical assistance. Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait at least 5 seconds, and then open the computer cover.
Page 182: Repairing A Dropped Or Damaged Computer
• • • • So lv ing Pr o ble m s Run the System Board Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics. Did any of the diagnostics tests fail? Yes. Contact Dell for technical assistance. No. The problem is resolved.
Page 183: Computer Memory Problems
If an insufficient memory message appears, save and close any open files and exit any open application programs not in use. • Consider installing additional computer memory. • Run the System Memory test in the Dell Diagnostics. • Reseat the memory modules. • Restart the computer.
Page 184: System Board Problems
So lv ing Pr o ble m s Did any of the diagnostics tests fail? Yes. Contact Dell for technical assistance. No. Go to step 3. Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait at least 5 seconds, and then open the computer cover.
Page 185: Resetting A Damaged System Board
Perform the procedure in "Resetting a Damaged System Is the computer working properly? Yes. The problem is resolved. Contact Dell for technical assistance. Resetting a Damaged System Board If the computer cannot boot and you have exhausted all other troubleshooting options, perform the following steps.
Page 186: Dell Diagnostics
Dell Diagnostics When to Use the Dell Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your computer, run the Dell Diagnostics before you call Dell for technical assistance. The Dell Diagnostics tests check your computer's hardware without additional equipment and without the risk of destroying data.
Page 187: Running The Dell Diagnostics
Dell Diagnostics. Insert the Dell ResourceCD into the CD drive. Press <Alt><b> to exit system setup and save your changes. The computer reboots and the Dell logo screen appears followed by a list of the available languages. NOTE:...
Page 188 Information and Results: Provides test results, test errors, version numbers of subtests, and additional information on the Dell Diagnostics. • Program Options: Allows you to change the settings of the Dell Diagnostics. • Exit to MS-DOS: Exits to the MS-DOS prompt.
Page 189: Advanced Testing
Remove the ResourceCD from the CD drive when you have finished running the Dell Diagnostics. Enter system setup and change the Boot Sequence to your original configuration. Advanced Testing When you select Advanced Testing from the Diagnostics Menu, the following screen appears:...
Page 190: Advanced Testing Help Menu
Describes the Advanced Testing screen, the Device Groups, and the diagnostic menus and commands and gives instructions on how to use them Explains the functions of all keystrokes that can be used in the Dell Diagnostics main menu and provides reasons for using certain tests...
Page 191: Messages And Codes
[nnnn]. For help in resolving this problem, please note this checkpoint and contact Dell Technical Support. The floppy drive or hard Attachment failed drive controller cannot to respond send data to the associated drive.
Page 192 Message Bad command or file name Bad error- correction code (ECC) on disk read Controller has failed Data error Decreasing available memory Diskette drive 0 seek failure Diskette drive 1 seek failure Diskette read failure So lv ing Pr o ble m s Cause Action The command for file...
Page 193 - hardware configuration. please run SETUP program Action Run the Diskette tests in Dell Diagnostics Put a floppy in the drive or close the drive latch. Remove the floppy from drive A, and move the write-protect tab to the unlocked position.
Page 194 Message Keyboard clock line failure Keyboard controller failure Keyboard data line failure Keyboard failure Keyboard stuck key failure Memory address line failure at address, read value expecting value Memory allocation error So lv ing Pr o ble m s Cause Action A cable or connector may "Keyboard...
Page 195 Message Cause One or more DIMMs may Memory data line be faulty or improperly failure at seated. address, read value expecting value Memory double word logic failure at address, read value expecting value Memory odd/even logic failure at address, read value expecting value Memory write/read...
Page 196 If the problem persists, the expansion card may be malfunctioning. If the message does not reappear, turn off the power and reinsert one of the other cards. Repeat this process until you identify the malfunctioning card. setup, check Dell...
Page 197 "Battery Problems." Enter system setup correct the date or time. Run the System Board Dell Devices tests in the Diagnostics Run the System Memory and the Keyboard tests in Dell Diagnostics S o lv ing Pr o ble m s...
Page 198: Computer Beep Codes
(NVRAM). This information is invaluable to the Dell support staff if you need to call for technical assistance. When a beep code is emitted, write it down on a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist found in Codes."...
Page 199 Action "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. Run the System Board Devices tests in Dell Diagnostics, if possible. Run the System Board Devices tests in Dell Diagnostics, if possible. Run the System Board Devices tests in Dell Diagnostics, if possible.
Page 200 Diagnostics. Otherwise, see Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. NVRAM power loss Run the System Board Devices tests in Dell Diagnostics, if possible. NVRAM configuration Run the System Board Devices tests in Dell Diagnostics, if possible. Video Memory Test...
Page 201: Warning Messages
Run the System Board Devices tests in Dell Diagnostics, if possible. Run the System Board Devices tests in Dell Diagnostics, if possible. Run the System Board Devices tests in Dell Diagnostics if possible. Dell Diagnostics, an error NOTE: Warning messages are generated...
Page 202: Front Panel Light
Front Panel Light P o w e r S w i t c h D i a g n o s t i c L i g h t C o d e s Power Light Code Blinking yellow Solid yellow Solid green and a beep code during POST Solid green power light with...
Page 203: Back Panel Lights
"Finding need to complete prior to performing the suggested resolution. If the problem persists after you perform the suggested problem resolution(s), contact Dell for further help. The following table lists the codes for the back panel diagnostic lights, gives their probable causes, and offers suggested corrective actions. The light patterns are shown as they appear on the back of the desktop chassis (vertical position).
Page 204 So lv ing Pr o ble m s yellow Possible processor green failure yellow yellow green Possible memory green failure yellow yellow Possible expansion card yellow yellow failure green yellow green Possible video card yellow failure or bad on-board green video yellow yellow...
Page 205: Software Problems
yellow Other failure green green green green Normal operating green condition after POST green green Software Problems This section provides general guidelines for analyzing software problems. For detailed troubleshooting information on a particular program, see the documentation that accompanied the software or consult the support service for the software.
Page 206: Operating System Compatibility
So lv ing Pr o ble m s Confirm that a problem is software-related by running the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics. If all tests run successfully, the error condition may be related to a software problem.
Page 207: Device Drivers
Device Drivers Programs that use specialized subroutines called device drivers can also cause problems with your computer. For example, a variation in the way the data is sent to the monitor may require a special screen driver program that expects a certain kind of video mode or monitor. In such cases, you may have to develop an alternative method of running that particular program—...
Page 208: Memory Address Conflicts
Memory Address Conflicts Memory address conflicts occur when two or more devices try to access the same address in the upper memory blocks (UMB). For example, if a network expansion card and an expanded-memory page frame are assigned an overlapping block of addresses, a memory address conflict arises. As a result, when you try to log in to the network, the operation fails.
Page 209: Bios Recovery Utility
The computer automatically flashes the BIOS from the floppy. When the computer begins to restart and the Dell logo screen appears, remove the floppy from the floppy drive so that the computer does not boot from the floppy again.
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Page 211: Getting Help
S E C T I O N 7 G e t t i n g H e l p Help Overview Dell Contact Numbers...
Page 212: Help Overview
Help Overview This section describes the tools Dell provides to help you when you have a problem with your computer. It also tells you when and how to contact Dell for technical or customer assistance. Technical Assistance If you need assistance with a technical problem, perform the following...
Page 213 World Wide Web The Internet is your most powerful tool for obtaining information about your computer and other Dell products. Through the Internet, you can access most of the services described in this section, including AutoTech, TechFax, order status, technical support, and product information.
Page 214 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 technical 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 215: Problems With Your Order
Product Information If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com/. For the telephone number to call to speak to a sales specialist, see Numbers."...
Page 216: Before You Call
Before You Call Remember to fill out the system 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 217 ________________________________________________________________________________________________ See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the computer’s startup files. Print each file if possible. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell. Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code: ______________________________________________________ Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed: ________________________________...
Page 218: Dell Contact Numbers
Dell Contact Numbers The following table provides country-specific access codes and telephone numbers, websites, and email addresses that you can use to contact Dell. The codes required depend on where you are calling from as well as the destination of your call; in addition, each country has a different dialing protocol.
Page 219 Country Code: 43 Home/Small Business Customer Care City Code: 1 Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care Home/Small Business Technical Support Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support Switchboard Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com Barbados General Support Belgium (Brussels) Technical Support International Access Code: 00 Customer Care...
Page 220 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Canada (North York, Ontario) Automated Order-Status System International Access Code: 011 AutoTech (Automated technical support) Customer Care (From outside Toronto) Customer Care (From within Toronto) Customer Technical Support Sales (Direct sales—from outside Toronto) Sales (Direct sales—from within Toronto) Sales (Federal government, education, and medical)
Page 221 Czech Republic (Prague) Technical Support International Access Code: 00 Customer Care Country Code: 420 City Code: 2 TechFax Switchboard Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com Denmark (Horsholm) Technical Support International Access Code: 00 Relational Customer Care Country Code: 45 Home/Small Business Customer Care...
Page 222 Home and Small Business International Access Code: 00 Technical Support Country Code: 33 Customer Care City Codes: (1) (4) Switchboard Switchboard (Alternative) Sales Fax (Alternative) Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/ Corporate Technical Support Customer Care Switchboard Sales Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/ Germany (Langen)
Page 223 Home User Customer Care Country Code: 353 Small Business Customer Care City Code: 1 Corporate Customer Care Sales SalesFax Switchboard Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com Italy (Milan) Home and Small Business International Access Code: 00 Technical Support Country Code: 39 Customer Care...
Page 224 City Code: 44 Technical Support Outside of Japan (Dimension and Inspiron) Technical Support (Dell Precision™, OptiPlex™, and Latitude™) Technical Support Outside of Japan (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) 24-Hour Automated Order Service Customer Care Business Sales Division (Up to 400 employees)
Page 225 International Access Code: 00 Home/Small Business Sales (Brussels, Belgium) Country Code: 352 Corporate Sales (Brussels, Belgium) Customer Care (Brussels, Belgium) Fax (Brussels, Belgium) Switchboard (Brussels, Belgium) Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: tech_be@dell.com Macau Technical Support Country Code: 853 Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) Transaction Sales...
Page 226 Country Code: 31 Home/Small Business Sales City Code: 20 Home/Small Business Sales Fax Corporate Sales Corporate Sales Fax Switchboard Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: tech_nl@dell.com New Zealand Home and Small Business International Access Code: 00 Government and Business Country Code: 64 Sales...
Page 227 Technical Support International Access Code: 00 Relational Customer Care Country Code: 47 Home/Small Business Customer Care Switchboard Fax Technical Support (Upplands Vasby, Sweden) Fax Switchboard Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: nor_support@dell.com E-mail Support for Servers: Nordic_server_support@dell.com Panama General Support Peru General Support...
Page 228 Technical Support International Access Code: 09/091 Customer Care Country Code: 27 Sales City Code: 11 Switchboard Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com Southeast Asian and Pacific Customer Technical Support, Customer Service, Countries and Sales (Penang, Malaysia) Spain (Madrid) Home and Small Business...
Page 229 Fax Technical Support Sales Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: swe_support@dell.com E-mail Support for Latitude and Inspiron: Swe-nbk_kats@dell.com E-mail Support for OptiPlex: Swe_kats@dell.com E-mail Support for Servers: Nordic_server_support@dell.com Switzerland (Geneva) Technical Support (Home and Small Business) International Access Code: 00 Technical Support (Corporate)
Page 230 Preferred Accounts (500-5000 employees) Customer Care Central Government Customer Care Local Government Customer Care Home/Small Business Sales Corporate/Public Sector Sales Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com Ge tt ing Help Department Name or Service Area, Website and E-Mail Address Area Codes, Local Numbers, and...
Page 231 Automated Order-Status System International Access Code: 011 AutoTech (For portable and desktop computers) Country Code: 1 Dell Home and Small Business Group (For portable and desktop computers): Customer Technical Support (Return material authorization numbers) Customer Technical Support (Home sales purchased via www.dell.com)
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Page 233: Additional Information
S E C T I O N 8 A d d i t i o n a l I n f o r m a t i o n Regulatory Notices ® ENERGY STAR Compliance Limited Warranty and Return Policy...
Page 234: Regulatory Notices
• • • • If necessary, consult a Dell Technical Support representative or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. Dell computer systems are designed, tested, and classified for their intended electromagnetic environment. These electromagnetic environment classifications generally refer to the following harmonized definitions: •...
Page 235: Fcc Notices (U.s. Only)
EMC classification for the intended environment. For parallel printers, a cable is available from Dell. If you prefer, you can order a cable from Dell on the World Wide Web at accessories.us.dell.com/sna/segmenter.asp. Most Dell computer systems are classified for Class B environments.
Page 236 • Class A This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
Page 237: Ic Notice (Canada Only)
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 computer system (or other Dell digital apparatus), examine all registration labels located on the bottom or the back panel of your computer (or other digital apparatus).
Page 238: Battery Disposal
(RF) interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures. 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 standards has been made and is on file at Dell Computer Corporation Products Europe BV, Limerick, Ireland.
Page 239: Ccib Notice (China Only)
Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site. CCIB Notice (China Only) On Class A systems, the following warning will appear near the regulatory label: Warning: This is a Class A product.
Page 240: Vcci Notice (Japan Only)
VCCI Notice (Japan Only) Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) as Class B information technology equipment (ITE). However, the inclusion of certain options can change the rating of some configurations to Class A. ITE, including peripherals, expansion cards,...
Page 241: Mic Notice (Republic Of Korea Only)
(or other Dell digital device), examine the Republic of Korean Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) registration labels located on your computer (or other Dell digital device). The MIC label may be located separately from the other regulatory marking applied to your product. Line three of the label identifies the emissions class for the product—"(A)"...
Page 242 Class A Device Please note that this device has been approved for business purposes with regard to electromagnetic interference. If you find that this device is not suitable for your use, you may exchange it for a nonbusiness-purpose device. M I C C l a s s A R e g u l a t o r y L a b e l Class B Device Please note that this device has been approved for nonbusiness purposes and may be used in any environment, including residential areas.
Page 243: Polish Center For Testing And Certification Notice
M I C C l a s s B R e g u l a t o r y L a b e l Polish Center for Testing and Certification Notice The equipment should draw power from a socket with an attached protection circuit (a three-prong socket).
Page 244: Pozostaše Instrukcje Bezpieczeòstwa
Pozosta³e instrukcje bezpieczeñstwa Addit ional Inf o r mat ion...
Page 245 • • • • • • Addit ional Info r m ati on...
Page 246: Bsmi Notice (Taiwan Only)
BSMI Notice (Taiwan Only) Addit ional Inf o r mat ion...
Page 247: Nom Information (Mexico Only)
NOM Information (Mexico Only) The following information is provided on the device(s) described in this document in compliance with the requirements of the official Mexican standards (NOM): Addit ional Info r m ati on...
Page 248: Información Para Nom (Únicamente Para México)
Addit ional Inf o r mat ion Exporter: Dell 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 Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F. Ship to: Dell Computer de México,...
Page 249: Energy Star ® Compliance
® ENERGY STAR Compliance Certain configurations of Dell computers comply with the requirements set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for energy-efficient computers. If the front panel of your computer bears the Emblem, your original configuration complies with these requirements and ®...
Page 250: Limited Warranty And Return Policy
Dell Computer Corporation (“Dell”) manufactures its hardware products from parts and components that are new or equivalent to new in accordance with industry-standard practices. For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Setup and Quick Reference Guide.
Page 251: Glossary
Glossary A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W Z Ampere. A measurement of current in an electrical conductor. Alternating current. Electricity that reverses its direction at a rate of 60 times per second (50 times per second in some countries).
Page 252 Application Program Interface. The interface through which an application program accesses the and other services. APIC Advanced programmable interrupt controller. Prioritizes and manages IRQs for the various devices in a PC. Without an APIC, the microprocessor must control IRQs. ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange.
Page 253 binary digit. A bit is the smallest unit of storage and A shortened reference to represents a quantity that can have only one of two possible values, such as true or false, or 0 or 1. Boot Sequence Allows you to specify the order of the devices from which the system attempts to boot.
Page 254 Cache An area of high-speed set aside to store frequently accessed data. When data is accessed, a copy is stored in cache memory. The next time the microprocessor looks for information, it first checks the cache. If the data is there, the microprocessor retrieves it from the much-faster cache memory.
Page 255 Also referred to as the Product Key Product ID. For more information, see http://support.dell.com. COM Port A shortened reference to communications port. The typical designation for a serial connection to a modem or other serial device. Most computers support one or two serial connectors designated as COM1 and COM2.
Page 256 fully populated. All Rambus slots in a system must be filled with either a RIMM or a CRIMM. D-Sub See Subminiature-D. Digital audio tape. A type of magnetic tape originally designed for audio format, now also used in computers to back up data. DAT cassettes are about the physical size of audio cassettes and can store numerous of data.
Page 257 Deutsche Industrie Normenausschuss. A German standards organization and member of ISO. DIN is also a form of connector on your computer that is round, has 5 pins, and is typically used to connect keyboard cable connectors. See also Mini- DIN. Direct memory access.
Page 258 Digital versatile disc. An optical form of storage media, typically used for movies. DVD has improved capacity and bandwidth compared with the CD. Most DVD drives support CD media as well. Error checking and correction. A type of read or transmitted for errors and, when necessary, corrects the errors. See also EDO.
Page 259 Express Service Code A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™ computer. This code is a mathematical conversion of the computer’s Service Tag Number into a purely numeric format allowing for easy entry into Dell's automated call-routing system.
Page 260 Front side bus. The data path and physical interface between the microprocessor and RAM. Foot (feet). A measurement of length that equals 12 inches. File Transfer Protocol. A standard Internet protocol to exchange files between computers on the Internet. Like http, which transfers HTML pages and related files, FTP is a protocol that uses the Internet's...
Page 261 Hot-Swappable Indicates that a device can be connected to or disconnected from a computer while the computer is running. After the hot-swappable device is connected to the computer, the can immediately recognize and use the device. Hour(s). A measurement of time that equals 60 min. HTML Hypertext Markup Language.
Page 262 Integrated Device Electronics. An is a common interface used primarily for hard drives and interface is commonly integrated directly into the computer’s system board, and it allows up to four drives to communicate simultaneously with the computer. See also EIDE. Internet Protocol.
Page 263 Kilobit(s). A measurement of data that equals 1024 bits. A measurement of the capacity of memory integrated circuits. See also KB. Kilobyte(s). A measurement of data that equals 1,024 bytes. 1024 KB equals 1 MB. Kilogram(s). A measurement of mass that equals 1,000 grams. Kilohertz.
Page 264 Low insertion force. A type of socket or connector that allows a computer chip to be installed or removed with minimal stress applied to either the chip or its socket. See ZIF. Local Bus that allows chips and other components in the computer to access the microprocessor at a speed synchronized with the microprocessor speed.
Page 265 MBps MB(s) per second. A measurement of data transmission speed. Memory Address Addresses assigned to physical memory locations by the computer at start- up. These addresses allow devices and software applications to identify information that the microprocessor can access. This process is referred to as Memory Mapping.
Page 266 Millisecond. A measurement of storage device access time that equals one thousandth of a second. MTBF Mean time between failures. A measurement of estimated equipment reliability. The higher the MTBF, the longer the equipment should last. For example, if the MTBF is 10,000 hours, the equipment should run, on the average, at least 10,000 hours before failing.
Page 267 PBX is to save the cost of requiring a separate telephone line for each user. Personal computer. Commonly used to describe an IBM-compatible computer, as opposed to an Apple Macintosh computer. Peripheral Component Interconnect. A standard for by Intel Corporation.
Page 268 Pin grid array. A type of socket for a computer chip. The PGA socket has all its pins lined up in even rows, as opposed to the rows staggered. Pipeline Processing A method of processing in which a task is performed in stages: the output of one stage is input to the next stage.This method speeds up processing by allowing several parts of multiple tasks to be run simultaneously.
Page 269 Product Key Also referred to as Product ID. See COA. PS/2 Personal System/2. A mini-DIN connector on your computer that is typically used to connect keyboard or mouse cable connectors. Pre-boot eXecution Environment. A standard of computers that do not have an PXE benefits include: •...
Page 270 RDRAM Rambus can optimally transfer up to 1.6 billion subsystem consists of RAM, the RAM controller, and the RAM to the DRDRAM. Remote Wake Up A standard of computer from a low-power sleep state or to remotely start a computer that is turned off but connected to a power source.
Page 271 See also and DTE. Service Tag Number A five to seven-digit alpha-numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell computer. This code is programmed into your computer’s system setup Dell during the manufacturing process. Dell customer support applications use the Service Tag to display all of the configuration and support history information for your specific computer.
Page 272 reports potential problems. Ideally, this should allow you to take proactive actions to prevent impending hard-drive failures. SMBIOS System management BIOS. A standard method by which the BIOS data of a WfM-compliant computer can be accessed remotely. SNMP Simple Network Management Protocol. The protocol governing network management and the monitoring of network equipment.
Page 273 System Setup A utility that allows you to configure user-selectable options in the BIOS such as date and time, or system password, as well as to set the current configuration information, including the amount of memory or type of hard drive installed. TAPI Telephony Applications Programming Interface (API).
Page 274 Volt. A measurement of electric potential and electromotive force. If one volt is applied to a resistance of one ohm, a current of one ampere will flow across the resistance. Volt(s) HTML document, on the Internet. Examples of URLs http://www.dell.com http://support.dell.com ftp.dell.com mailto:info@dell.com devices Ethernet networks.
Page 275 Volt(s) direct current (DC). Voltage regulator module. A component installed on the system board that senses the voltage requirements for a microprocessor and ensures that the correct voltage is maintained. Watt. A measurement of electrical power that equals 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt.
Page 276 Zero insertion force. A type of socket or connector that allows a computer chip to be installed or removed with no stress applied to either the chip or its socket. See LIF.

Dell OptiPlex GX50 User Manual

1 About Your Computer

Inside Your Computer

2 Advanced Features

3 Installing Upgrades

4 Microsoft® Windows® XP Features

5 Technical Specifications

6 Solving Problems

7 Getting Help

8 Additional Information

Quick Links

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Summary of Contents for Dell OptiPlex GX50

Table of Contents