Dell XPS PP06XA Owner's Manual
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Dell XPS PP06XA Owner's Manual

Dell laptop 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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Summary of Contents for Dell XPS PP06XA

  • 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 Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license. Logitech, the Logitech logo, and the Logitech products referred to herein are either the trademarks or the registered trademarks of Logitech.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Finding Information About Your Computer Front View Left Side View Right Side View Back View Bottom View Setting Up Your Computer Connecting to the Internet Setting Up Your Internet Connection Transferring Information to a New Computer Setting Up a Printer Printer Cable Connecting a USB Printer Power Protection Devices...
  • Page 4 Using a Battery Battery Performance Checking the Battery Charge Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter Contents ........
  • Page 5 ® Microsoft Charge Gauge Low-Battery Warning Conserving Battery Power Power Management Modes Standby and Sleep Mode Hibernate Mode Configuring Power Management Settings Accessing Power Options Properties Charging the Battery Removing the Battery Storing a Battery Using the Camera Accessing the Camera’s Help File Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings Creating a Picture or a Video Using GamePanel...
  • Page 6 Playing Media Using Dell Express Card Remote Control (Optional) Copying CD, DVD, and Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) Media How to Copy a CD, DVD or BD Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media Helpful Tips Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture Using Dell MediaDirect™...
  • Page 7 What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card 100 Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator 11 Securing Your Computer Security Cable Lock Passwords .
  • Page 8 13 Troubleshooting Dell Technical Update Service Dell Diagnostics Dell Support Utility Drive Problems Optical drive problems Hard drive problems E-Mail and Internet Problems Error Messages ExpressCard Problems IEEE 1394 Device Problems Keyboard Problems External Keyboard problems Unexpected characters Lockups and Software Problems...
  • Page 9 XP and Microsoft Windows Vista™ Operating Systems Restoring Your Operating System Using Microsoft Windows System Restore Starting System Restore Using Dell™ PC Restore and Dell Factory Image Restore 143 Using the Operating System Media 14 Adding and Replacing Parts Before You Begin .
  • Page 10 Hard Drive Memory Subscriber Identity Module Internal Card With Bluetooth™ Wireless Technology Optical Drive 15 Traveling With Your Computer Identifying Your Computer Packing the Computer Travel Tips 16 Getting Help Obtaining Assistance Problems With Your Order Contents Recommended Tools ....Turning Off Your Computer Before Working Inside Your Computer .
  • Page 11 Product Information Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Before You Call Contacting Dell 17 Specifications A Appendix ......
  • Page 12 Contents...

  • Page 13: Finding Information

    (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 136), to run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 107), or to access your documentation. Readme files may be included on your media to provide last-minute updates...
  • Page 14 • End User License Agreement • How to set up my computer • Service Tag and Express Service Code Finding Information Find It Here Dell™ Product Information Guide Setup Diagram NOTE: The appearance of your setup diagram may vary. Service Tag and Microsoft...
  • Page 15 • Service and support — Service call status and support history, service contract, online discussions with technical support • Dell Technical Update Service — Proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer • Reference — Computer...
  • Page 16 NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary depending on your selections. Dell Support Utility The Dell Support Utility is an automated upgrade and notification system installed on your computer. This support provides real-time health scans of your computing environment, software updates, and relevant self-support information.
  • Page 17 • How to reinstall my operating system Find It Here Dell QuickSet Help To view Dell QuickSet Help, right-click the QuickSet icon in the Microsoft ® taskbar, and select Help. Windows The taskbar is located in the lower-right corner of your screen.
  • Page 18 Finding Information...

  • Page 19: About Your Computer

    About Your Computer Front View About Your Computer...

  • Page 20: Camera

    11 Dell™ MediaDirect™ button 13 digital array microphones (2) 15 camera indicator C A M E R A — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. D I S P L A Y —...

  • Page 21: Device Status Lights

    D E V I C E S T A T U S L I G H T S Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in a power management mode. Turns on when the computer reads or writes data. NOTICE: light is flashing.
  • Page 22 T O U C H P A D — Provides the functionality of a mouse (see "Touch Pad" on page 45). N F R A R E D E N S O R — Consumer Infrared sensor to operate the remote control. E D I A C O N T R O L B U T T O N S Mute the sound.
  • Page 23 E D I A I R E C T B U T T O N ™ M ™ — Press the Dell MediaDirect button to launch Dell MediaDirect (see "Using Dell MediaDirect™" on page 67). Dell MediaDirect button About Your Computer...
  • Page 24 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 Caps Lock function is enabled. Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.

  • Page 25: Left Side View

    Left Side View DVI-I connector (Dual link) USB connector 8-in-1 memory card reader microphone connector DVI-I C O N N E C T O R — Used for connecting a DVI or VGA display (through dongle). V I D E O C O N N E C T O R —...
  • Page 26 M E M O R Y C A R D R E A D E R share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card. The 8-in-1 media memory card reader reads the following digital media memory cards: •...

  • Page 27: Right Side View

    Right Side View Express card slot Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator security cable slot 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. For more information, see "ExpressCards" on page 85.

  • Page 28: Back View

    – Solid yellow: Weak network found – Off: No signal found NOTE: The Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator light appears only when the computer is turned off and wireless networking is activated in the system setup program. U S B...
  • Page 29 CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.
  • Page 30 C O N N E C T O R S U S B N E T W O R K C O N N E C T O R (RJ-45) NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network connector.

  • Page 31: Bottom View

    Bottom View memory module cover battery charge gauge/health gauge hard drive M E M O R Y M O D U L E C O V E R module connectors. B A T T E R Y B A Y L A T C H R E L E A S E S B A T T E R Y C H A R G E G A U G E charge (see "Checking the Battery Charge"...
  • Page 32 CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

  • Page 33: 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 wireless modem/router or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: •...

  • Page 34: Transferring Information To A New Computer

    If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using. NOTE: If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail and Internet Problems"...

  • Page 35: Setting Up A Printer

    Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer. See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to: • Obtain and install updated drivers. • Connect the printer to the computer. •...
  • Page 36 1 USB connector on computer 3 USB printer cable 3 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. 4 Depending on your computer’s operating system, a printer wizard may be available to help you install the printer driver: If your computer is running the Windows Vista™...

  • Page 37: Power Protection Devices

    Power Protection Devices Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures: • Surge protectors • Line conditioners • Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) Surge Protectors Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help prevent damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or after power interruptions.

  • Page 38: Uninterruptible Power Supplies

    Uninterruptible Power Supplies NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage. NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection.

  • Page 39: 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 setting by pressing <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard.

  • Page 40: Making Images And Text Look Bigger Or Sharper

    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 41: Windows Vista

    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 42: Microsoft Windows Xp

    Microsoft Windows XP 1 Click Start→ Settings→ Control Panel. 2 Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes. 3 Under Pick a task..., click the area you want to change, or under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Display. 4 In the Display Properties window, click the Settings tab.

  • Page 43: Using The Keyboard

    Using the Keyboard Numeric Keypad The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. • To enable the keypad, press <Num Lk>. The keypad is active. • To disable the keypad, press <Num Lk> again. Keyboard Illumination Your computer features keyboard illumination.

  • Page 44: Battery

    Control Panel, click Hardware and Sound, and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. Using the Keyboard Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter. Activates a power management mode. You can reprogram this keyboard shortcut...

  • Page 45: Touch Pad

    Touch Pad The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow you to move the cursor on the display. Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons as you would use a mouse. • To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad. •...
  • Page 46 Using the Keyboard...

  • Page 47: 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 48: 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 a battery from other computers with your computer.

  • Page 49: Charge Gauge

    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 icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

  • Page 50: Conserving Battery Power

    You can change the settings for the battery alarms in QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 52 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window. Conserving Battery Power Perform the following actions to conserve battery power: •...

  • Page 51: Hibernate Mode

    To enter sleep mode in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Sleep. NOTE: If your computer is not responding, pressing and holding the power button for more than 10 seconds turns it off. Depending on how you set the power management options in the Power Options Properties window or the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, you may also use one of the following methods: •...

  • Page 52: Configuring Power Management Settings

    NOTE: Some PC Cards or Express Cards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove and reinsert the card (see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 87), or simply restart (reboot) your computer. To exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit hibernate mode.

  • Page 53: Removing 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 a battery from other computers with your computer.
  • Page 54 Using a Battery...

  • Page 55: Using The Camera

    Using the Camera 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. For more information about camera features, see "Specifications"...

  • Page 56: 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 Launch Webcam Console. 2 In the Webcam Console window: • Click the Camera tab to adjust video settings, such as contrast and brightness.

  • Page 57: Using Gamepanel

    Using GamePanel ® The Logitech GamePanel™ is a small secondary monochrome LCD for displaying text and graphical information located at the top right hand corner of the dashboard. This shows important gaming information such as frames per second, health and so on, without cluttering the main display. It can also display non-gaming information such as memory utilization, CPU utilization, and so on.

  • Page 58: Gamepanel Applications

    The GamePanel toggle button lets you toggle among the various applications provided by the GamePanel. You can use the first two buttons of the GamePanel control buttons to navigate between values and options in the LCD Manager tabs.The third and fourth buttons are used for confirming and cancelling the value selections respectively.

  • Page 59: 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 60 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: A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: For more information on playing media, click Help on the media player (if available).

  • Page 61: Playing Media Using Dell Express Card Remote Control (Optional)

    Playing Media Using Dell Express Card Remote Control (Optional) 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 62: Copying Cd, Dvd, And Blu-Ray Disc™ (Bd) Media

    CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Roxio Creator, and then press <F1>. The DVD drives and BD drives installed in Dell computers do not support HD-DVD media. For a list of supported media formats, see "Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media"...

  • Page 63: How To Copy A Cd, Dvd Or Bd

    How to Copy a CD, DVD or BD NOTE: Most commercial DVDs and BDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus. NOTE: BD media can only be copied to other BD media. NOTE: Copying a BD-R to BD-RE does not produce an exact copy. 1 Click Start →...

  • Page 64: Helpful Tips

    DVD-Writable and Combo Drives Media Type Read CD-R CD-RW DVD+R DVD-R DVD+RW DVD-RW DVD+R DL DVD-R DL Blu-Ray Drives Media Type Read CD-R CD-RW DVD+R DVD-R DVD+RW DVD-RW DVD+R DL DVD-R DL BD-R BD-RE Helpful Tips ® • Use Microsoft Windows CD-RW only after you start Roxio Creator and open a Creator project.

  • Page 65: Adjusting The Volume

    • Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos. • Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed.

  • Page 66: Adjusting The Picture

    Adjusting the Picture If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing media playback, adjust the display properties: Windows XP 1 Click Start→ Control Panel→ Appearance and Themes. 2 Under Pick a task..., click Change the screen resolution. 3 Under Screen resolution, click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution setting.

  • Page 67: Using Dell Mediadirect

    Dell MediaDirect. If the computer is turned on or in standby or sleep mode If you press the Dell MediaDirect button while the computer is turned on or in standby (Windows XP) or sleep (Windows Vista) mode, either Windows Media Center Manager or Dell Media Experience launches, depending on your system setup.

  • Page 68: Connecting Your Computer To A Tv Or Audio Device

    MediaDirect re-installation media that was shipped with your computer. For more information, see the Reinstalling Dell MediaDirect techsheet that accompanied your computer. For more information on using Dell MediaDirect, use the Help menu in the Dell MediaDirect application. Connecting Your Computer to a TV or...
  • Page 69 S-video TV-out connector S-video TV-out connector S/PDIF digital audio connector S-video connector S-video TV-out connector S/PDIF digital audio connector Pb (blue) component video-output connector S-video connector composite video adapter composite video-output connector component video adapter Pr (red) component video-output connector Y (green) component video-output connector Using Multimedia...

  • Page 70: 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 71 standard S-video 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 72: S-Video And S/Pdif Digital Audio

    S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio S-video TV-out connector composite video adapter 1 composite video adapter S-video cable S/PDIF digital audio cable Using Multimedia...
  • Page 73 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 74: Composite Video And Standard Audio

    Composite Video and Standard Audio audio input connector composite video adapter composite video adapter standard audio cable Using Multimedia S-video TV-out connector composite video cable...
  • Page 75 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 76: Composite Video And S/Pdif Digital Audio

    Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio S-video TV-out connector composite video adapter standard audio cable Using Multimedia composite video adapter composite video cable...
  • Page 77 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 78: Component Video And Standard Audio

    Component Video and Standard Audio S-video TV-out connector component video adapter standard audio cable Using Multimedia component video adapter component video cable...
  • Page 79 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 80: Component Video And S/Pdif Digital Audio

    Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio S-video TV-out connector component video adapter standard audio cable Using Multimedia component video adapter component video cable...
  • Page 81 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 82: Dvi To Hdmi And Standard Audio

    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" on page 83 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area.

  • Page 83: Enabling The Display Settings For A Tv

    1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Plug the DVI end of the DVI to HDMI adaptor cable into the DVI-I connector on the computer. 3 Plug the other end of the DVI to HDMI adaptor cable into the HDMI connector on your TV.
  • Page 84 Windows Vista 1 Click the Windows Vista Start button click Appearance and Personalization. 2 Under Personalization, click Adjust Screen Resolution. The Display Properties window appears. 3 Click Advanced. 4 Click the tab for your video card. NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see the Windows Help and Support Center.

  • Page 85: 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 86: 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 87: Removing An Expresscard Or Blank

    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 88: Memory Card Reader

    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 89: 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 90: 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 91: 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 92: Setting Up A Network

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

  • Page 93: Windows Vista

    Windows Vista 1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Set up a connection or network. 2 Select an option under Choose a connection option. 3 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 network cable connected to each computer.

  • Page 94: Setting Up A New Wlan Using A Wireless Router And A Broadband Modem

    Start Button and Connect To Option In Microsoft Windows XP , click Start→ Connect To→ Show all connections. NOTE: If your computer is set to the Classic Start menu option, click Start → Settings Network Connections to view your network connections. In Microsoft Windows Vista, click computers and devices.
  • Page 95 4 Shut down your computer and any other wireless-enabled computers in the vicinity through the Windows Vista Start button in Windows XP. 5 Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet. 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.

  • Page 96: 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 97 Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager Depending on the software installed on your computer, different wireless configuration utilities may manage your network devices: • Your wireless network card’s client utility • The Windows XP or Windows Vista operating system To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless network card in Windows XP: 1 Click Start→...

  • Page 98: Mobile Broadband (Or Wireless Wide Area Network)

    NOTE: If you select a secure network, you must enter a WEP or WPA key when prompted. Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information. NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.

  • Page 99: What You Need To Establish A Mobile Broadband Network Connection

    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...

  • Page 100: Connecting To A Mobile Broadband Network

    Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide available through Windows Help and Support (click Start 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 101: Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

    To scan for a wireless network, push the Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator button. It functions regardless of whether your computer is turned on or off, or in Sleep state, as long as the switch is configured through Dell QuickSet or the BIOS (system setup program) to control WiFi network connections.
  • Page 102 Setting Up and Using Networks...

  • Page 103: 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 104: Passwords

    Passwords Passwords prevent unauthorized access to your computer. When using passwords, observe the following guidelines: • Choose a password that you can remember, but not one that is easy to guess. For example, do not use the names of family members or pets for passwords.

  • Page 105: Cleaning Your Computer

    Cleaning Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions 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 106: Cds, Dvds And Bds

    CDs, DVDs and BDs NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD and BD drive, and follow the instructions that come with the compressed-air product. Never touch the lens in the drive. If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs, DVDs or BDs, try cleaning the discs.

  • Page 107: Troubleshooting

    (see "System Setup Screens" on page 180). Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from your Drivers and Utilities media (see "Drivers and Utilities Media" on page 13).
  • Page 108 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. Troubleshooting...
  • Page 109 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 110 Dell Diagnostics Main Menu After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want. NOTE: It is recommended that you select on your computer. Option Test Memory Test System Exit After you have selected the Test System option from the main menu, the following menu appears.

  • Page 111: Dell Support Utility

    View frequently asked questions • Learn more about the Dell Support Utility • Turn the Dell Support Utility off For more information about the Dell Support Utility, click the question mark (?) at the top of the Dell Support window. Troubleshooting...

  • Page 112: Drive Problems

    • Click the Start 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 113: Optical Drive Problems

    See "Troubleshooting Software — ® Windows See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 107. — CD-RW, DVD+/-RW, and BD-RE drives must — I N D O W S B E F O R E W R I T I N G T O A —...

  • Page 114: Hard Drive Problems

    Hard drive problems 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 prevent the operating system from starting.

  • Page 115: 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 107). The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it R I V E N O T R E A D Y —...
  • Page 116 "Hard Drive" on page 152), and boot the computer from a CD. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 107).
  • Page 117 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 107).
  • Page 118 P E R A T I N G S YS T E M N O T F O U N D on page 152). If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 170).
  • Page 119 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 107). I M E D A Y C L O C K L O S T P O W E R corrupted.

  • Page 120: Expresscard Problems

    Screens" on page 180). I M E R C H I P C O U N T E R malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 107). N E X P E C T E D I N T E R R U P T I N P R O T E C T E D M O D E be malfunctioning, or a memory module may be loose.

  • Page 121: Ieee 1394 Device Problems

    Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 169 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 122: External Keyboard Problems

    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 107).

  • Page 123: Unexpected Characters

    Unexpected characters I S A B L E T H E N U M E R I C K E Y P A D keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit. Lockups and Software Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the...

  • Page 124: A Program Is Designed For An Earlier Microsoft ® Windows ® Operating System

    H E C K T H E E L L E D I A menu to access Dell MediaDirect Help. O P L A Y M O V I E S W I T H T H E E L L...

  • Page 125: Other Software Problems

    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. Because Dell MediaDirect provides access —...

  • Page 126: Memory Problems

    U N T H E E L L I A G N O S T I C S is related to a software problem (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 107). Memory Problems Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 169 as you complete these checks.

  • Page 127: Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [Wwan])

    Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility. To access the utility, double-click the 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. H E C K N E T W O R K C O N N E C T I O N S T A T U S I N T H E...

  • Page 128: Power Problems

    If the battery status light rapidly flashes Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 170). 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 0°C (32°F), the computer will not start.

  • Page 129: Printer Problems

    O N N E C T T H E C O M P U T E R D I R E C T L Y T O A N E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T protection devices, power strips, and extension cables to verify that the computer turns on.

  • Page 130: Scanner Problems

    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 Windows XP 1 Click Start→ Control Panel→ Printers and Other Hardware→ View installed printers or fax printers.

  • Page 131: Sound And Speaker Problems

    E R I F Y T H A T T H E S C A N N E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y Windows XP 1 Click Start→ Control Panel→ Printers and Other Hardware→ Scanners and Cameras.

  • Page 132: No Sound From Headphones

    Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, — See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 107. — Ensure that the headphone — Click or double-click the speaker —...

  • Page 133: 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 107.

  • Page 134: If The Display Is Difficult To Read

    I D E O D I A G N O S T I C S T E S T S still have a display problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the "Dell Diagnostics" on page 107, then contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 170).

  • Page 135: If Only Part Of The Display Is Readable

    2 Turn on the computer and the monitor, and then adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls. If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 170). Drivers What Is a Driver? A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard.

  • Page 136: Identifying Drivers

    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 137 Windows Vista 1 Click the Windows Vista start button 2 Click Properties→ Device Manager. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager. 3 Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties.
  • Page 138 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. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the Drivers and Utilities program.

  • Page 139: Troubleshooting Software And Hardware Problems In The Microsoft

    6 Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files. 7 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next. 8 Click Finish and restart your computer. Windows Vista 1 Click the Windows Vista start button 2 Click Properties→...

  • Page 140: Restoring Your Operating System

    For instructions, see "Using Microsoft Windows System Restore" on page 141. • Dell PC Restore by Symantec (available in Windows XP) and Dell Factory Image Restore (available in Windows Vista) returns your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Both permanently delete all data on the hard drive and remove any programs installed after you received the computer.

  • Page 141: Using Microsoft Windows System Restore

    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 142 Windows Vista 1 Click Start 2 In the Start Search box, type System Restore and press <Enter>. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action. 3 Click Next and follow the remaining prompts on the screen.

  • Page 143: Using Dell™ Pc Restore And Dell Factory Image Restore

    If possible, back up the data before using these options. Use PC Restore or Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
  • Page 144 NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from your computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your computer operating system. Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer.
  • Page 145 7 Click Finish to close the PC Restore Removal window and restart the computer. Windows Vista: Dell Factory Image Restore 1 Turn on the computer. When the Dell logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the Vista Advanced Boot Options Window. 2 Select Repair Your Computer.

  • Page 146: Using The Operating System Media

    The Operating System media provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files and possibly affect programs that are installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.
  • Page 147 4 Restart the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately. NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft computer and try again. NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the system setup program.
  • Page 148 Troubleshooting...

  • Page 149: Adding And Replacing Parts

    Off Your Computer" on page 150) and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" (see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 150). • 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 150: Turning Off 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 151 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 computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.

  • Page 152: Hard Drive

    Hard drives are extremely fragile; even a slight bump can damage the drive. NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than Dell. Your computer can accommodate up to two hard drives. The hard drives are installed in trays labeled 0 and 1 in the hard drive cage and the cage is installed in the hard drive bay.
  • Page 153 3 Loosen the four captive screws on the hard drive cage and then lift the pull-tab to flip the cage towards the center of the computer so that the SATA cables and connectors are accessible. 4 Carefully remove the SATA cables from the hard drive or drives that are installed in the cage.

  • Page 154: Replacing A Hard Drive In The Hard Drive Cage

    Replacing a Hard Drive in the Hard Drive Cage 1 Remove two screws on each side of the hard drive cage to free the hard drive, then lift the drive out of its tray in the cage. NOTICE: When a hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging.

  • Page 155: Replacing The Hard Drive Cage

    In order to take advantage of the dual channel bandwidth capability, both memory slots must be populated and must match in size. NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
  • Page 156 3 Turn the computer over, loosen the captive screws on the memory module cover, and then remove the cover. captive screws (2) NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory-module securing clips. 4 If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module: Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up.
  • Page 157 memory module NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the connector labeled “DIMMA” before you install a module in the connector labeled “DIMMB.” Insert memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.
  • Page 158 memory module 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 159: Subscriber Identity Module

    Subscriber Identity Module Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM) identify users uniquely through an International Mobile Subscriber Identity. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: Only GSM (HSDPA) type cards need a SIM. EVDO cards do not use a SIM. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin"...

  • Page 160: Internal Card With Bluetooth™ Wireless Technology

    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. If you ordered a card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer, it is already installed. The Bluetooth wireless technology card is located in the battery compartment.

  • Page 161: Optical Drive

    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" on page 149. 2 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
  • Page 162 Adding and Replacing Parts...

  • Page 163: 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. ® ®...

  • Page 164: Travel Tips

    • Avoid packing the computer with items such as shaving cream, colognes, perfumes, or food. NOTICE: If the computer has been exposed to extreme temperatures, allow it to acclimate to room temperature for 1 hour before turning it on. • Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as extreme temperatures and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids.

  • Page 165: Getting Help

    5 If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see "Contacting Dell" on page 170. NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone near or at the computer so that the support staff can assist you with any necessary procedures. NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.

  • Page 166: 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 168, and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com. DellConnect...

  • Page 167: Autotech Service

    "Contacting Dell" on page 170. 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 168: Returning Items For Warranty Repair Or Credit

    Service Tag (located in the battery bay of your computer). Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 169). 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 169 Address: Phone number: Service Tag (bar code in the battery bay 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 170: 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 171: Specifications

    Specifications NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, click Start→ Help and Support and select the option to view information about your computer. Processor Processor type L1 cache L2 cache External bus frequency (front side bus) System Information System chip set...
  • Page 172 ExpressCard NOTE: The ExpressCard slot is designed only for ExpressCards. It does NOT support PC Cards. ExpressCard connector Cards supported ExpressCard connector size Memory Memory module connector Memory module capacities Memory type Minimum memory Maximum memory NOTE: In order to take advantage of the dual channel bandwidth capability, both memory slots must be populated and must match in size.
  • Page 173 Ports and Connectors Audio IEEE 1394a Consumer IR Network adapter S-video TV-out Dual link DVI-I (Digital Video Interface) Communications Network adapter Wireless Video NOTE: Your computer comes in different configurations with different video controller cards. Video controller: Video type Data bus Video memory LCD interface TV support...
  • Page 174 Sigmatel STAC9228 High Definition Audio codec bluetooth stereo headphones (optional) DVD combo, DVD+RW, Blu-ray ® ® Roxio Creator Plus Dell MediaDirect™ 3.3 WUXGA 245.0 mm (9.64 inches) 383.0 mm (15 inches) 431.8 mm (17 inches) 1920 x 1200 60 Hz 0° (closed) to 142°...
  • Page 175 Display (continued) Viewing angle (typical): Horizontal Vertical Pixel pitch Power consumption (panel with backlight) (typical): Controls Keyboard Number of keys Layout Type Camera Pixel Video Resolution Diagonal Viewing Angle Touch Pad X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) Size: Width Height ±60°...
  • Page 176 Battery Type Dimensions: Depth Height Width Weight Voltage Charge time (approximate) Computer off Operating time Life span (approximate) Temperature range: Operating Storage AC Adapter Input voltage Input current (maximum) Input frequency Output current Output power Rated output voltage Specifications 9-cell "smart" lithium ion 88.5 mm (3.48 inches) 21.5 mm (0.83 inch) 139.0 mm (5.47 inches)
  • Page 177 AC Adapter (continued) Dimensions: Height Width Depth Weight (with cables) Temperature range: Operating Storage Physical Height Width Depth Weight (with 9-cell battery and optical drive) Environmental Temperature range: Operating Storage Relative humidity: Operating Storage Maximum vibration (using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates user environment): Operating Storage...
  • Page 178 Environmental (continued) Maximum shock (measured with a 2-ms half-sine pulse): Operating Storage Altitude (maximum): Operating Storage Specifications 143 G 163 G –15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft) –15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft)

  • Page 179: A Appendix

    Basic device-configuration settings • System security 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. Appendix...

  • Page 180: Viewing The System Setup Screens

    Verify the system setup entry procedure for your system (steps 1 and 2) with the project team. 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer. 2 When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately. If you wait too long and the Microsoft you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
  • Page 181 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 182: Fcc Notice (U.s. Only)

    3 Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately. If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

  • Page 183: 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 184 Appendix...

  • Page 185: 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 186 bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your computer. Blu-ray Disc™ (BD)— An optical storage technology offering storage capacity of up to 50 GB, full 1080p video resolution (HDTV required), and as many as 7.1 channels of native, uncompressed surround sound. ®...
  • Page 187 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 — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read CDs and DVDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs.
  • Page 188 disk striping — A technique for spreading data over multiple disk drives. Disk striping can speed up operations that retrieve data from disk storage. Computers that use disk striping generally allow the user to select the data unit size or stripe width. DMA —...
  • Page 189 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 190 Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling point of water. FBD — fully-buffered DIMM — A DIMM with DDR2 DRAM chips and an Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) that speeds communication between the DDR2 SDRAM chips and the system.
  • Page 191 hard drive — A drive that reads and writes data on a hard disk. The terms hard drive and hard disk are often used interchangeably. HDMI — The High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an all-digital audio/video interface capable of transmitting uncompressed streams. heat sink —...
  • Page 192 IrDA — Infrared Data Association — The organization that creates international standards for infrared communications. IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway assigned to a specific device so that the device can communicate with the processor. Each device connection must be assigned an IRQ.
  • Page 193 — 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 memory is not permanent, it is recommended that you frequently save your files while you are working on them, and always save your files before you shut down the computer.
  • Page 194 network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interface controller). NIC —...
  • Page 195 PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two devices through the processor as part of the data path. pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are arranged in rows and columns to create an image. A video resolution, such as 800 x 600, is expressed as the number of pixels across by the number of pixels up and down.
  • Page 196 refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines are recharged (sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency). The higher the refresh rate, the less video flicker can be seen by the human eye. resolution —...
  • Page 197 Service Tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service or technical support. setup program — A program that is used to install and configure hardware and software.
  • Page 198 SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 1024. SXGA+ — super-extended graphics array plus — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1400 x 1050. system board —...
  • Page 199 USB — universal serial bus — A hardware interface for a low-speed device such as a USB-compatible keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner, set of speakers, printer, broadband devices, imaging devices, or storage devices. Devices are plugged directly in to a 4-pin socket on your computer or in to a multi-port hub that plugs in to your computer.
  • Page 200 W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt. WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for 1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours.

  • Page 201: Index

    141 slow performance, 115, 125 specifications, 172 stops responding, 123 conflicts software and hardware incompatibilities, 139 connecting audio device, 68 Mobile Broadband network, 98 TV, 68 contacting Dell, 170 copying CDs helpful tips, 64 Index...
  • Page 202 107 starting from the Drivers and Utilities media, 109 starting from your hard drive, 108 Dell MediaDirect about, 23 problems, 124 Dell support site, 15 DellConnect, 166 device latch release description, 31 device status lights description, 21 diagnostics Dell, 107...
  • Page 203 24 keypad numeric, 43 labels Microsoft Windows, 14 Service Tag, 14 media playing, 59 media control buttons Dell MediaDirect button, 67 media memory cards, 88 installing, 89 types, 88 memory adding, 155 removing, 156 memory card blanks, 89 memory card reader, 88...
  • Page 204 CD drive, 113 CD-RW drive, 113 computer crashes, 123-124 computer does not start up, 123 computer stops responding, 123 conflicts, 139 Dell Diagnostics, 107 Dell MediaDirect, 124 drives, 112 DVD drive, 113 error messages, 115 hard drive, 114 IEEE 1394 connector, 121...
  • Page 205 SIM. See Subscriber Identity Module software conflicts, 139 problems, 124-125 software and hardware incompatibilities, 139 sound problems, 131 volume, 131 speakers description, 22 problems, 131 volume, 131 specifications, 172 spyware, 115, 125 Subscriber Identity Module, 159 support contacting Dell, 170 Index...
  • Page 206 System Restore, 140-141 system setup program commonly used options, 180 purpose, 179 screens, 180 viewing, 180 taskbar Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, 127 Safely Remove Hardware, 120 wireless activity indicator, 98 telephone numbers, 170 touch pad, 45 track stick/touch pad buttons...
  • Page 207 reinstalling, 146 system restore, 141 wizards Program Compatibility wizard, 124 WWAN See also Mobile Broadband Index...
  • Page 208 Index...

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