Dell XPS M1730 Owner's Manual

Dell XPS M1730 Owner's Manual

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Dell™ XPS™ M1730
Owner's Manual
Model PP06XA
w w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m

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  • Page 1 Dell™ XPS™ M1730 Owner’s Manual Model PP06XA 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 Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Finding Information ....About Your Computer ....Determining Your Computer’s Configuration .
  • Page 4 Microsoft Windows Logo Key Functions ..Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations ..Adjusting Keyboard Settings ........
  • Page 5 ..... . Playing Media Playing Media Using Dell Express Card Remote Control 49 ....
  • Page 6 S-Video and Standard Audio ... . S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio ....Composite Video and Standard Audio .
  • Page 7 Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card . . . Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card 82 Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator ..10 Securing Your Computer .
  • Page 8 ... . A solid blue screen appears ... . . Dell MediaDirect problems Other software problems ....
  • Page 9 Hard Drive ... Returning a Hard Drive to Dell Memory ......
  • Page 10 13 Dell™ QuickSet Features ... 14 Traveling With Your Computer ..Identifying Your Computer ....
  • Page 11 ....... Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals 167 Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals 167 FCC Notice (U.S. Only) .
  • Page 12 Contents...
  • Page 13: Finding Information

    Drivers and Utilities media to • Notebook System Software (NSS) reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 116) or run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87). Readme files may be included on your Drivers and Utilities media to provide...
  • Page 14 What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • How to set up my computer Setup Diagram Finding Information...
  • Page 15 These labels are located on your computer. • Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use support.dell.com or contact support. • Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting support. NOTE: As an increased security measure, the newly designed Microsoft Windows license label incorporates a "security...
  • Page 16 • Service and support — Service call status, support history, service contract, and online discussions with support • Dell Technical Update Service — Proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer • Reference — Computer...
  • Page 17 Find It Here • Software upgrades and troubleshooting Dell Support Utility hints — Frequently asked questions, The Dell Support Utility is an automated hot topics, and general health of your upgrade and notification system installed computing environment on your computer. This support provides...
  • Page 18 What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • How to reinstall my operating system Operating System Media The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use one of the following methods: • Microsoft Windows System Restore — Microsoft Windows System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting...
  • Page 19: About Your Computer

    About Your Computer Determining Your Computer’s Configuration Based on selections that you made when purchasing your computer, your computer has one of several different video controller configurations. To determine your computer’s video controller configuration: 1 Click Start , and then click Help and Support. 2 Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems.
  • Page 20: Front View

    Front View media control buttons keyboard status lights keyboard power button display M E D I A C O N T R O L B U T T O N S — Control CD, DVD, and Media Player playback. About Your Computer...
  • Page 21 K E Y B O A R D S T A T U S L I G H T S The blue lights located above the keyboard indicate the following: Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled. Turns on when the uppercase letter (caps lock) function is enabled. Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.
  • Page 22: Left Side View

    Left Side View optical drive audio connectors O P T I C A L D R I V E — For more information about the optical drive, see "Using " on page 47 Multimedia A U D I O C O N N E C T O R S Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.
  • Page 23: Back View

    X P R E S S A R D S L O T — Supports one ExpressCard, The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. S E C U R I T Y C A B L E S L O T —...
  • Page 24 About Your Computer...
  • Page 25: Setting Up Your Computer

    Setting Up Your Computer Connecting to the Internet NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: •...
  • Page 26: Setting Up Your Internet Connection

    Setting Up Your Internet Connection To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. ® ® 2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft Windows desktop.
  • Page 27: Transferring Information To A New Computer

    Transferring Information to a New Computer You can transfer the following types of data from one computer to another: • E-mail messages • Toolbar settings • Window sizes • Internet bookmarks Use one of the following methods for transferring data: •...
  • Page 28: Printer Cable

    Printer Cable Your printer connects to your computer with a USB cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer and computer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the computer’s shipping box.
  • Page 29: Power Protection Devices

    3 Turn on the printer, and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel. 4 Click Start , and then click Network. 5 Click Add a printer to start the Add Printer Wizard. NOTE: To install the printer driver, see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities"...
  • Page 30: Line Conditioners

    Line Conditioners NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions. Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level. Uninterruptible Power Supplies NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage.
  • Page 31: Using The Display

    Using the Display Adjusting Brightness When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the display brightness to the lowest comfortable level. • Press <Fn> and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
  • Page 32: Setting Display Resolution And Refresh Rate

    NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with your Dell-installed operating system. If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values.
  • Page 33: Using The Keyboard And Touch Pad

    Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Numeric Keypad numeric keypad The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, hold down <Fn>...
  • Page 34: Key Combinations

    <Fn> and down-arrow key Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). Battery <Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter (see "Dell QuickSet Battery Meter" on page 40). ® Wireless Networking and Bluetooth Wireless Technology Function <Fn><F2>...
  • Page 35: Dell™ Quickset Key Combinations

    <Pause> Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations If Dell QuickSet is installed, you can use other shortcut keys for functions such as the Battery Meter. For more information about Dell QuickSet key combinations, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification area, and then click Help.
  • Page 36: Customizing The Touch Pad

    • To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad. • To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch pad button. • To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad.
  • Page 37 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad...
  • Page 38 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad...
  • Page 39: Using A Battery

    Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer. For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay. NOTE:...
  • Page 40: Checking The Battery Charge

    Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use batteries from other computers with your computer.
  • Page 41: Microsoft ® Windows ® Battery Meter

    You can check battery health in one of two ways: by using the charge gauge on the battery, as described below, and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification area, and then click Help.
  • Page 42: Low-Battery Warning

    The computer enters Sleep state when the battery charge is at a critically low level. You can change the settings for the battery alarms in Dell QuickSet or the Power Options window (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 42).
  • Page 43: Using The Sleep Power State

    Using the Sleep Power State Rather than shutting down your portable computer, use the Sleep power state to conserve power. Sleep automatically saves your work to your hard drive, and then returns you to your previous work session without restarting your computer. NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in Sleep state, it may lose data.
  • Page 44: Replacing The Battery

    Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use batteries from other computers with your computer.
  • Page 45: Using The Optional Camera

    Using the Optional Camera If you ordered a camera when you bought your computer, the camera is integrated in the computer display. The camera and its integrated digital microphones allow you to take photos and videos and to communicate visually and verbally with other computer users. The blue camera light appears when the camera is turned on.
  • Page 46: Manually Adjusting The Camera Settings

    Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings If you do not want the camera to use automatic settings, you can manually adjust the camera settings. 1 Right-click the icon in the notification area and click Launch Webcam Console. 2 In the Webcam Console window: •...
  • Page 47: Using Multimedia

    Using Multimedia Playing Media NOTICE: Do not press down on the optical drive tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing media. 1 Press the eject button on the front of the drive.
  • Page 48 To format media for storing or copying data, see the media software that came with your computer. NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when copying media. A CD player includes the following basic buttons: Play. Move backward within the current track. Pause.
  • Page 49: Playing Media Using Dell Express Card Remote Control

    Playing Media Using Dell Express Card Remote Control The Dell Express Card remote control is designed to control Dell Media Direct and Windows Vista™ Media Center. It can work only with specified computers. For more details, refer to the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
  • Page 50: Copying Cd And Dvd Media

    Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when copying media. NOTE: The types of optical drives offered by Dell may vary by country. The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD using Roxio Creator. You can also use Roxio Creator for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data.
  • Page 51: How To Copy A Cd Or Dvd

    How to Copy a CD or DVD NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus. 1 Click Start →All Programs → Roxio Creator DE →Projects →Copy. 2 Under the Copy tab, click Copy Disc. 3 To copy the CD or DVD: •...
  • Page 52: Helpful Tips

    DVD-Writable Drives Media Type Read Write Rewritable CD-R CD-RW DVD+R DVD-R DVD+RW DVD-RW DVD+R DL DVD-R DL Helpful Tips ® ® • Use Microsoft Windows Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Roxio Creator and open a Creator project. •...
  • Page 53: Adjusting The Volume

    Press the Dell MediaDirect button, located on the hinge cover, to launch Dell MediaDirect. When your computer is turned off or in Sleep state, you can press the Dell MediaDirect button to start the computer and automatically launch the Dell MediaDirect application.
  • Page 54: Connecting Your Computer To A Tv Or Audio Device

    You need the installation software to reinstall Dell MediaDirect. Contact Dell for assistance (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152). For more information on using Dell MediaDirect, use the Help menu in the Dell MediaDirect application. Connecting Your Computer to a TV or...
  • Page 55 S-video TV-out connector S-video connector S-video TV-out connector composite video adapter S/PDIF digital audio connector composite video-output connector S-video connector S-video TV-out connector component video adapter S/PDIF digital audio connector Pr (red) component video-output connector Pb (blue) component video-output Y (green) component video-output connector connector Using Multimedia...
  • Page 56: S-Video And Standard Audio

    If you want to connect your computer to a TV or audio device, it is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the following combinations: • S-video and standard audio • Composite video and standard audio •...
  • Page 57 standard S-video cable standard audio cable 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. NOTE: If your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio, you can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer (without the TV/digital audio adapter cable).
  • Page 58: S-Video And S/Pdif Digital Audio

    S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio S-video TV-out connector composite video adapter composite video adapter S-video cable S/PDIF digital audio cable Using Multimedia...
  • Page 59 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or the audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3 Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the composite video adapter.
  • Page 60: Composite Video And Standard Audio

    Composite Video and Standard Audio audio input connector S-video TV-out connector composite video adapter composite video adapter composite video cable standard audio cable Using Multimedia...
  • Page 61 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3 Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video- output connector on the composite video adapter.
  • Page 62: Composite Video And S/Pdif Digital Audio

    Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio S-video TV-out connector composite video adapter composite video adapter composite video cable standard audio cable Using Multimedia...
  • Page 63 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer. 3 Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the composite video adapter.
  • Page 64: Component Video And Standard Audio

    Component Video and Standard Audio S-video TV-out connector component video adapter component video adapter component video cable standard audio cable Using Multimedia...
  • Page 65 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3 Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter.
  • Page 66: Component Video And S/Pdif Digital Audio

    Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio S-video TV-out connector component video adapter component video adapter component video cable standard audio cable Using Multimedia...
  • Page 67 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer. 3 Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter.
  • Page 68: Enabling The Display Settings For A Tv

    6 Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device. 7 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV"...
  • Page 69: Using Cards

    Using Cards ExpressCards ExpressCards provide additional memory, wired and wireless communications, multimedia and security features. For example, you can add an ExpressCard to make wireless wide area network (WWAN) connectivity available on your computer. ExpressCards support two form factors: • ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide) •...
  • Page 70: Expresscard Blanks

    ExpressCard Blanks Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the ExpressCard slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no ExpressCard is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer.
  • Page 71: Removing An Expresscard Or Blank

    slot ExpressCard The computer recognizes the ExpressCard and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the media that came with the ExpressCard. Removing an ExpressCard or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
  • Page 72: Memory Card Reader

    release button Memory Card Reader The memory card reader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card. NOTE: A memory card is not a bootable device. The 8-in-1 memory card reader reads the following memory cards: •...
  • Page 73: Memory Card Blanks

    Memory Card Blanks Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the memory card reader. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no media memory card is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer.
  • Page 74: Removing A Memory Card Or Blank

    The computer recognizes the memory card and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the media that came with the memory card, if applicable. Removing a Memory Card or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
  • Page 75: Setting Up And Using Networks

    Setting Up and Using Networks Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer, or a network. For example, with a network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer, access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or access the Internet.
  • Page 76: Setting Up A Network

    Setting Up a Network 1 Click Start , and then click Connect To. 2 Click Set up a connection or network. 3 Select an option under Choose a connection option. 4 Click Next, and then follow the instructions in the wizard. Wireless Local Area Network A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a...
  • Page 77: Setting Up A New Wlan Using A Wireless Router And A Broadband Modem

    Device Manager 1 Click Start , and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Classic View on the menu on the left side of the Control Panel. 3 Double-click Device Manager. NOTE: The User Account Control window may open. 4 Click Continue on the User Account Control window if it opens. 5 Click the + next to Network adapters to list the utility that manages your wireless network card.
  • Page 78 6 Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem. 7 Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that there is no power connected to the router. NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before continuing with the network setup.
  • Page 79: Connecting To A Wlan

    Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card"...
  • Page 80: Mobile Broadband (Or Wireless Wide Area Network)

    Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. To turn the wireless activity indicator on or off, click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Hotkey Popups.
  • Page 81: Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

    If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide in Windows Help and Support (click Start...
  • Page 82: Connecting To A Mobile Broadband Network

    Windows Help and Support (click Start , and then click Help and Support). The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com and on the media included with your Mobile Broadband card if you purchased the card separately from your computer.
  • Page 83: Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

    Mobile Broadband card. If the switch is in the off position, move the switch to the on position to enable the switch and the Dell Mobile Broadband card. For information about the wireless switch positions.
  • Page 84 Setting Up and Using Networks...
  • Page 85: Securing Your Computer

    Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock. A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device.
  • Page 86: If Your Computer Is Lost Or Stolen

    Dell for technical assistance and gives your Service Tag, the computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen. The representative will attempt to get the phone number and address of the caller. Dell will then contact the law enforcement agency to which you reported the missing computer.
  • Page 87: Troubleshooting

    (see "Using the System Setup Program" on page 161). Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from your Drivers and Utilities media (see "Drivers and Utilities Media" on page 13).
  • Page 88 If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, you receive the message Booting Dell Diagnostic Utility Partition. Press any key to continue. 4 Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive. Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media 1 Insert your Drivers and Utilities media.
  • Page 89 Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they appear and follow the instructions on the screen. 9 After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu. 10 Remove your Drivers and Utilities media, then close the Main Menu window to exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer.
  • Page 90 Write down the error code and problem description exactly as it appears and follow the instructions on the screen. If you cannot resolve the problem, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152).
  • Page 91: Dell Support Utility

    Allows you to customize the test by changing the test settings. Dell Support Utility The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment. This utility provides self-support information, software updates, and health scans for your computer. Use this utility to do the following: •...
  • Page 92: Drive Problems

    • Click the Start Settings. Ensure that the Show icon on the taskbar option is checked. NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to support.dell.com and download the software. Drive Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
  • Page 93: Optical Drive Problems

    Optical drive problems NOTE: High-speed optical drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the media. NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives. Problems writing to a CD-RW or DVD+/-RW drive CD-RW and DVD+/-RW drives must receive a L O S E O T H E R P R O G R A M S...
  • Page 94: Hard Drive Problems

    Hard drive problems A hot hard drive may L L O W T H E C O M P U T E R T O C O O L B E F O R E T U R N I N G I T O N —...
  • Page 95 Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware. Troubleshooting...
  • Page 96: Error Messages

    F A I L E D I N I T I A L I Z A T I O N — hard drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87). The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it R I V E N O T R E A D Y —...
  • Page 97 125), and boot the computer from a CD. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87). The hard drive does not respond...
  • Page 98 E Y B O A R D S T U C K K E Y F A I L U R E — cable connection. Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the Stuck Key test in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87). Dell MediaDirect™...
  • Page 99 P E R A T I N G S YS T E M N O T F O U N D — on page 125). If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152). The optional ROM has failed. Contact...
  • Page 100 A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. H U T D O W N F A I L U R E — Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87). System configuration settings are...
  • Page 101: Expresscard Problems

    — Contact IEEE 1394 Dell or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152). F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A N D E V I C E N O T P R O V I D E D B Y...
  • Page 102: Keyboard Problems

    Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 151 as you perform the various checks. NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
  • Page 103: Unexpected Characters

    U N T H E K E Y B O A R D D I A G N O S T I C S T E S T S — Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87). If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell"...
  • Page 104: A Program Stops Responding Or Crashes Repeatedly

    I R E C T H E L P F I L E F O R I N F O R M A T I O N — menu to access Dell MediaDirect Help. O P L A Y M O V I E S W I T H...
  • Page 105: Other Software Problems

    NOTICE: You cannot reinstall the Dell MediaDirect feature if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive. Contact Dell for assistance (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152). Other software problems H E C K T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N O R C O N T A C T T H E S O F T W A R E M A N U F A C T U R E R F O R T R O U B L E S H O O T I N G I N F O R M A T I O N —...
  • Page 106: Memory Problems

    E L L I A G N O S T I C S — is related to a software problem (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87). Memory Problems Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 151 as you complete these checks.
  • Page 107: Network Problems

    Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility. To access the utility, double-click the icon located in the taskbar, at the lower-right corner of your screen. If your ExpressCard is not a Dell- branded card, see the manufacturer’s instructions for your card. Troubleshooting...
  • Page 108: Power Problems

    T I L I T Y — Card Utility. Check the status in the main window: • No card detected — Restart the computer, and launch the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility again. • Check your WWAN service — Contact your cellular service provider to verify your plan coverage and supported services.
  • Page 109: Printer Problems

    , the battery may be defective. amber Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152). If the battery temperature is below 0°C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y T E M P E R A T U R E —...
  • Page 110: Scanner Problems

    Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by E S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — testing it with another device, such as a lamp. E R I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y I N D O W S —...
  • Page 111: Sound And Speaker Problems

    E I N S T A L L T H E A U D I O D R I V E R — page 116. See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87. U N T H E E L L I A G N O S T I C S —...
  • Page 112: No Sound From Headphones

    E M O T E C O N T R O L I S S T U C K I N T H E S L O T Check that you have not incorrectly stored the remote control into a non- Express Card slot. Contact Dell Technical Support for removing it. Touch Pad or Mouse Problems H E C K T H E T O U C H P A D S E T T I N G S —...
  • Page 113: Video And Display Problems

    E S T T H E M O U S E C O N T R O L L E R — pointer movement) and the operation of the touch pad or mouse buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing Devices test group in the "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities"...
  • Page 114: If The Display Is Difficult To Read

    — still have a display problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87, then contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 152). If an error message appears, see "Error Messages"...
  • Page 115: Drivers

    A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes. Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation or configuration is needed. NOTICE: Your Drivers and Utilities media may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your computer.
  • Page 116: Reinstalling Drivers And Utilities

    Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and Utilities media provide approved drivers for Dell computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly. Using Windows Device Driver Rollback...
  • Page 117 4 When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the Drivers and Utilities disc. 5 At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next. NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities program displays drivers only for hardware that came installed in your computer. If you installed additional hardware, the drivers for the new hardware might not be displayed.
  • Page 118: Troubleshooting Software And Hardware Problems

    8 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next. 9 Click Finish, and then restart your computer. Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, use Windows Vista Help and Support to resolve the incompatibility: 1 Click Start →Help and Support.
  • Page 119: Using The Operating System Media

    NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view. 1 Click Start →Help and Support.
  • Page 120 The Operating System media provides options for reinstalling Windows. The options can overwrite files and possibly affect programs that are installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.
  • Page 121 Troubleshooting...
  • Page 122 Troubleshooting...
  • Page 123: Adding And Replacing Parts

    "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 123) and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" (see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 124). • You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide. • A component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.
  • Page 124: Before Working Inside Your Computer

    Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins. NOTICE: Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector, not on the cable itself.
  • Page 125: Hard Drive

    NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you service the computer. 4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets. 5 Remove the battery. Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the battery from the bay.
  • Page 126 Dell. NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to install an operating system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive. See "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 118 and "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities"...
  • Page 127 hard drive screws (2) hard drive NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. See "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide. 3 Slide the hard drive out of the computer. 4 Remove the new drive from its packaging.
  • Page 128: Returning A Hard Drive To Dell

    Returning a Hard Drive to Dell Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original or comparable foam packaging. Otherwise, the hard drive may be damaged in transit. foam packaging hard drive Memory You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board.
  • Page 129 NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you begin working inside the computer. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 123. 2 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
  • Page 130 1 memory module securing clips memory module (2 per connector) connector NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error message indicates this failure. 5 Ground yourself and install the new memory module: Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.
  • Page 131: Mini-Card

    6 Replace the memory module cover. NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer. 7 Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet.
  • Page 132 NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you begin working inside the computer. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 123. 2 Turn the computer over and loosen the captive screws from the Mini- Card/modem cover.
  • Page 133 antenna cables (2) Mini-Card Mini-Card connector Release the Mini-Card by pushing the metal securing clips toward the back of the computer until the card pops up slightly. Lift the Mini-Card out of its connector. Adding and Replacing Parts...
  • Page 134 securing clips Mini-Card Adding and Replacing Parts...
  • Page 135 NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors and realign the card. 5 Install the replacement Mini-Card: Align the Mini-Card with the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the Mini-Card down into the securing clips until the card clicks into place.
  • Page 136: Hinge Cover

    NOTE: If your computer has a gray cable, connect it to the connector with the gray triangle, if one is available on your card. 6 Replace the Mini-Card/modem cover. Hinge Cover CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
  • Page 137: Keyboard

    Insert a scribe into the indent to lift the hinge cover on the right side. Ease the hinge cover up, moving from right to left, and remove it. hinge cover When replacing the hinge cover, first insert the left edge and then press from left to right until the cover snaps into place.
  • Page 138: Coin-Cell Battery

    Remove the two screws at the top of the keyboard. NOTICE: The key caps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time- consuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard. Lift the keyboard and hold it up and slightly forward to access to the keyboard connector.
  • Page 139 NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer). NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the battery before you begin working inside the computer.
  • Page 140: Optical Drive

    Connect the battery cable to the connector on the system board. 6 Replace the keyboard. 7 Replace the hinge cover. Optical Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin"...
  • Page 141: Internal Card With Bluetooth ® Wireless Technology

    To reinstall the optical drive, slide the drive into the drive bay and snap it into place. Then replace the optical-drive security screw. ® Internal Card With Bluetooth Wireless Technology CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
  • Page 142 cable connector 2 card card cover 5 To replace the card, connect the card to the cable and then carefully insert it into the compartment. 6 Replace the card cover and tighten the screw. 7 Replace the battery. Adding and Replacing Parts...
  • Page 143: Dell™ Quickset Features

    • Network connectivity • Display • System information Depending on what you want to do in Dell QuickSet, you can start it by either clicking, double-clicking, or right-clicking the QuickSet icon in the ® ® Microsoft Windows notification area. The notification area is located in the lower-right corner of your screen.
  • Page 144 Dell™ QuickSet Features...
  • Page 145: Traveling With Your Computer

    Remove any extraneous items, such as paper clips, pens, and paper, from the keyboard and palm rest and close the display. • Use the optional Dell carrying case to pack the computer and its accessories together safely. • Avoid packing the computer with items such as shaving cream, colognes, perfumes, or food.
  • Page 146: Travel Tips

    • Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as extreme temperatures and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids. • Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead storage compartment.
  • Page 147: Getting Help

    1 See "Troubleshooting" on page 87 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. 2 See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 87 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics. 3 Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 151.
  • Page 148: Technical Support And Customer Service

    Dell's support service is available to answer your questions about Dell™ hardware. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers. To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You Call" on page 150, and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com. DellConnect...
  • Page 149: Autotech Service

    "Contacting Dell" on page 152. Automated Order-Status Service To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order.
  • Page 150: Returning Items For Warranty Repair Or Credit

    Service Tag (located on the back or bottom of your computer). Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 151). If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be...
  • Page 151 Address: Phone number: Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer): Express Service Code: Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician): Operating system and version: Devices: Expansion cards: Are you connected to a network? Yes No...
  • Page 152: Contacting Dell

    NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog. Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. Because availability varies by country and product, some services may not be available in your area.
  • Page 153: Specifications

    Specifications NOTE: Your computer comes in different configurations. To determine the configuration of your computer, see "Determining Your Computer’s Configuration" on page 19. Processor ® Processor type Intel Core™ 2 Duo processor ® Intel Core™ 2 Quad processor L1 cache 64 KB L2 cache 2 MB or 4 MB (Intel Core 2 Duo processor)
  • Page 154 ExpressCard (continued) Cards supported ExpressCard/34 (34 mm) and ExpressCard/54 (54 mm) ExpressCard connector size 26 pins Memory Memory module connector two user-accessible SODIMM connectors Memory module capacities 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB Memory type 1.8 V SODIMM DDR-II supports DDR-II up to 667 MHz Minimum memory 1 GB (via 2 x 512 MB SODIMM DDR-II...
  • Page 155 Interface) Communications Network adapter 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet LAN on system board Wireless internal PCI-e Mini-Card WLAN(802.11a/g, 802.11g, 802.11n/MIMO)support internal PCI-e Mini-Card(Dell 5700 EVDO and HSDPA) and external ExpressCard WWAN support ® internal card with Bluetooth wireless technology support Video NOTE: Your computer comes in different configurations with different video controller cards.
  • Page 156 Audio controller Sigmatel STAC9228 High Definition Audio codec Headphones bluetooth stereo headphones Media ® Drive CD-RW, DVD combo, Blu-ray ® ® Interface Roxio Creator Plus Dell MediaDirect™ 3.4 Display Type (active-matrix TFT) WUXGA Dimensions: Specifications...
  • Page 157 Display (continued) Height 245.0 mm (9.64 inches) Width 383.0 mm (15 inches) Diagonal 431.8 mm (17 inches) Maximum resolution 1920 x 1200 at 16.7 million colors Refresh rate 60 Hz Operating angle 0° (closed) to 180° Viewing angle (typical): Horizontal ±60°...
  • Page 158 Touch Pad (continued) Height 42.9-mm (1.69-inch) rectangle Battery Type 9-cell "smart" lithium ion Dimensions: Depth 88.5 mm (3.48 inches) Height 21.5 mm (0.83 inch) Width 139.0 mm (5.47 inches) Weight 0.48 kg (1.1 lb) (9 cell) Voltage 10.8 VDC Charge time (approximate) Computer off 4 hours (at 100% in 4 hours) 2 hour (at 80% in 2 hours)
  • Page 159 AC Adapter NOTE: For optimum system performance, you should always use a 130-W AC adapter. Using less-powerful AC adapters may cause you to receive a WARNING message and may also cause your computer to experience a degradation in performance. Input voltage 90–264 VAC Input current (maximum) 3.2 A...
  • Page 160 Environmental (continued) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Relative humidity: Operating 10% to 90% (noncondensing) Storage 5% to 95% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration (using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates user environment): Operating 0.66 GRMS Storage 1.3 GRMS Maximum shock (measured with a 2-ms half-sine pulse): Operating 143 G...
  • Page 161: Appendix

    System security and hard drive password settings NOTE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support, do not change the system setup settings. Certain changes might make your computer work incorrectly.
  • Page 162: Viewing The System Setup Screen

    Viewing the System Setup Screen 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer. 2 When the DELL logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long and the Microsoft Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.
  • Page 163 Performing a One-Time Boot You can set a one-time-only boot sequence without entering the system setup program (you can also use this procedure to boot the Dell Diagnostics on the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive). 1 Shut down the computer through the Start menu.
  • Page 164: Cleaning Your Computer

    Cleaning Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. Computer, Keyboard, and Display CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and remove any installed batteries. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water.
  • Page 165: Touch Pad

    Touch Pad 1 Shut down and turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 123). 2 Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets. 3 Remove any installed batteries (see "Battery Performance" on page 39). 4 Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe it gently across the surface of the touch pad.
  • Page 166: Media

    Dell, as well as the verification of appropriate functionality of the computer and all Dell-installed hardware.
  • Page 167: Definition Of "Dell-Installed" Software And Peripherals

    Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals Third-party software and peripherals include any peripheral, accessory, or software program sold by Dell not under the Dell brand (printers, scanners, cameras, games, etc). Support for all third-party software and peripherals is provided by the original manufacturer of the product.
  • Page 168: Macrovision Product Notice

    Plug the system into a different outlet so that the system and the receiver are on different branch circuits. If necessary, consult a representative of Dell Inc. or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this...
  • Page 169: Glossary

    Glossary Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer. AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet. ACPI —...
  • Page 170 understand what effect these settings have on the computer, do not change them. Also referred to as system setup. bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your computer. ® Bluetooth wireless technology — A wireless technology standard for short-range (9 m [29 feet]) networking devices that allows for enabled devices to automatically recognize each other.
  • Page 171 CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once. CD-RW/DVD drive —...
  • Page 172 DIMM — dual in-line memory module — A circuit board with memory chips that connects to a memory module on the system board. DIN connector — A round, six-pin connector that conforms to DIN (Deutsche Industrie-Norm) standards; it is typically used to connect PS/2 keyboard or mouse cable connectors.
  • Page 173 ExpressCards. ExpressCards support both the PCI Express and USB 2.0 standard. Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™ computer. Use the Express Service Code when contacting Dell for assistance. Express Service Code service may not be available in some countries.
  • Page 174 FBD — fully-buffered DIMM — A DIMM with DDR2 DRAM chips and an Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) that speeds communication between the DDR2 SDRAM chips and the system. FCC — Federal Communications Commission — A U.S. agency responsible for enforcing communications-related regulations that state how much radiation computers and other electronic equipment can emit.
  • Page 175 heat sink — A metal plate on some processors that helps dissipate heat. hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves everything in memory to a reserved space on the hard drive and then turns off the computer. When you restart the computer, the memory information that was saved to the hard drive is automatically restored.
  • Page 176 assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share the same IRQ assignment, you cannot operate both devices simultaneously. ISP — Internet service provider — A company that allows you to access its host server to connect directly to the Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access websites. The ISP typically provides you with a software package, user name, and access phone numbers for a fee.
  • Page 177 — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module. memory — A temporary data storage area inside your computer. Because the data in...
  • Page 178 MP — megapixel — A measure of image resolution used for digital cameras. ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second. Access times of storage devices are often measured in ms. network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an adapter on it.
  • Page 179 PCI Express — A modification to the PCI interface that boosts the data transfer rate between the processor and the devices attached to it. PCI Express can transfer data at speeds from 250 MB/sec to 4 GB/sec. If the PCI Express chip set and the device are capable of different speeds, they will operate at the slower speed.
  • Page 180 read-only — Data and/or files you can view but cannot edit or delete. A file can have read-only status if: • It resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD. • It is located on a network in a directory and the system administrator has assigned rights only to specific individuals.
  • Page 181 Service Tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service or technical support.
  • Page 182 video memory installed in the computer. S-video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or digital audio device to the computer. SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 1024. SXGA+ —...
  • Page 183 electrical power fails or drops to an unacceptable voltage level. A UPS keeps a computer running for a limited amount of time when there is no electrical power. UPS systems typically provide surge suppression and may also provide voltage regulation. Small UPS systems provide battery power for a few minutes to enable you to shut down your computer.
  • Page 184 turned on, the computer is infected when it reads the boot sectors of the floppy disk expecting to find the operating system. If the computer is infected, the boot virus may replicate itself onto all the floppy disks that are read or written in that computer until the virus is eradicated.
  • Page 185 ZIF — 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. Zip — A popular data compression format. Files that have been compressed with the Zip format are called Zip files and usually have a filename extension of .zip.
  • Page 186 Glossary...
  • Page 187: Index

    44 slow performance, 95, 106 specifications, 154 blank cards stops responding, 103 ExpressCards, 70 memory card, 73 connecting removing, 71, 74 audio device, 54 Mobile Broadband network, 80 Bluetooth wireless technology TV, 54 installing, 141 contacting Dell, 152 Index...
  • Page 188 Utilities media, 88 See hard drive starting from your hard drive, 87 Dell MediaDirect about, 50 problems, 104 blank, 51 Dell support site, 16 drive problems, 93 DellConnect, 148 Device Driver Rollback, 116 diagnostics Dell, 87 End User License Agreement, 13...
  • Page 189 34 description, 23 keyboard status lights description, 21 keypad numeric, 33 hard drive problems, 94 replacing, 125 returning to Dell, 128 labels hardware Microsoft Windows, 15 Dell Diagnostics, 87 Service Tag, 15 Hardware Troubleshooter, 118 lost computer, 86 hinge cover...
  • Page 190 CD drive, 93 QuickSet, 143 CD-RW drive, 93 computer crashes, 103-104 computer does not start up, 103 computer stops responding, 103 operating system Dell Diagnostics, 87 reinstalling Windows Vista, 118 Dell MediaDirect, 104 drives, 92 DVD drive, 93 error messages, 96 Index...
  • Page 191 hard drive, 94 reinstalling IEEE 1394 connector, 101 Windows Vista, 118 keyboard, 102 resolution lockups, 103 setting, 32 network, 107 power, 108 power light conditions, 108 printer, 109 S/PDIF digital audio program crashes repeatedly, 104 enabling, 68 program stops responding, 104 programs and Windows Safely Remove Hardware compatibility, 104...
  • Page 192 162 screens, 162 viewing, 162 uninterruptible power supply. See UPS UPS, 29 taskbar Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, 107 Dell Support Utility, 17 QuickSet icon, 143 video Safely Remove Hardware, 101 problems, 113 wireless activity indicator, 80...
  • Page 193 Windows Easy Transfer wizard, 27 Windows Vista Device Driver Rollback, 116 Program Compatibility wizard, 104 reinstalling, 118 System Restore, 118 Windows Easy Transfer wizard, 27 wireless turning activity on and off, 143 wizards Program Compatibility wizard, 104 Windows Easy Transfer, 27 WWAN See also Mobile Broadband Index...
  • Page 194 Index...

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