Dell XPS 15z Setup Manual
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Dell XPS 15z Setup Manual

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  • Page 1 SETUP GUIDE...
  • Page 3 SETUP GUIDE Regulatory model: P12F Regulatory type: P12F001...
  • Page 4 © 2011 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of these materials in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell™, the DELL logo, XPS™, and DellConnect™ are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel ®...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Connect to the Internet (Optional) ..18 Dell Stage ......50 Using Your XPS Laptop... 20 Free Fall Sensor.
  • Page 6 My Dell Downloads ....60 Contacting Dell..... 77 Hardware Troubleshooter .

  • Page 7: Setting Up Your Xps Laptop

    This section provides information about WARNING: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in setting up your Dell XPS laptop. the air vents. Do not place your Dell Before Setting Up Your computer in a low-airflow environment, Computer...

  • Page 8: Connect The Ac Adapter

    Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Connect the AC Adapter Connect the AC adapter to the computer and then plug it into an electrical outlet or surge protector. WARNING: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to a power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or permanent damage to your computer.

  • Page 9: Connect The Network Cable

    Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Connect the Network Cable (Optional) To use a wired network connection, connect the network cable.

  • Page 10: Press The Power Button

    Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Press the Power Button...

  • Page 11: Set Up Microsoft Windows

    Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Set Up Microsoft Windows Your Dell computer is preconfigured with the Microsoft Windows operating system. To set up Windows for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete. The Windows setup screens will take you through several procedures including accepting license agreements, setting preferences, and setting up an Internet connection.

  • Page 12: Create System Recovery Media

    You will require the following to create the system recovery media: • Dell DataSafe Local Backup • USB key with a minimum capacity of 8 GB or DVD‑R/DVD+R/Blu‑ray Disc NOTE: Dell DataSafe Local Backup does not support rewritable discs.
  • Page 13 Setting Up Your XPS Laptop To create a system recovery media: Ensure that the AC adapter is connected (see “Connect the AC Adapter” on page Insert the disc or USB key in the computer. → All Programs→ Dell DataSafe Local Backup. Start Click Click Create Recovery Media.

  • Page 14: Enable Or Disable Wireless (Optional)

    Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional)
  • Page 15 Setting Up Your XPS Laptop To enable or disable wireless: Ensure that your computer is turned on. Press the <Fn><F2> keys on the keyboard. The current status of the wireless radios appears on the screen. Wireless enabled Wireless disabled Press the <Fn><F2> keys again to switch between the wireless enabled or disabled states. NOTE: Pressing the <Fn><F2>...

  • Page 16: Set Up Wireless Display (Optional)

    Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Set Up Wireless Display To set up wireless display: Turn on your computer. (Optional) Ensure that wireless is enabled (see “Enable NOTE: The wireless display feature may or Disable Wireless” on page 12). not be supported on all computers. For Connect the wireless display adapter to information about the hardware and the TV.
  • Page 17 The Intel Wireless Display window appears. Select Connect to Existing Adapter. NOTE: You can download and install the latest driver for “Intel Wireless Display Connection Manager” from support.dell.com. NOTE: For more information about wireless display, see the wireless display adapter documentation.

  • Page 18: Set Up 3D Tv (Optional)

    Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Set Up 3D TV (Optional) NOTE: If you are unable to view the entire Windows desktop on your TV, use NOTE: To know if your TV supports the the 3D TV’s settings to reduce the display 3D features available on your computer, resolution.
  • Page 19 Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Set up the NVIDIA 3DTV Play application: • For Blu‑ray 3D playback, set the resolution to 1080p, 1920x1080 and In the NVIDIA Control Panel window, refresh rate to 24/23 Hz in HD 3D mode. click Stereoscopic 3D to expand the selection (if not already expanded) and NOTE: For TVs using PAL system with then click Set up stereoscopic 3D.

  • Page 20: Connect To The Internet (Optional)

    If an external USB modem or WLAN adapter wireless router. is not a part of your original order, you can To set up your connection to a wireless purchase one from dell.com. router: Setting Up a Wired Connection Ensure that wireless is enabled on your computer (see “Enable or Disable Wireless”...
  • Page 21 Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Setting Up Your Internet To set up your Internet connection: Connection Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. → Control Panel. Click Start Contact your ISP for offerings available in your country.

  • Page 22: Using Your Xps Laptop

    Using Your XPS Laptop This section provides information about the features available on your Dell XPS laptop. Right View Features...
  • Page 23 Using Your XPS Laptop Audio-out/Headphone connector — Connects to a pair of headphones or to a powered speaker or sound system. Audio-in/Microphone connector — Connects to a microphone or inputs signal for use with audio programs. 3 Optical drive — Plays or records CDs and DVDs. For more information, see “Using the Optical Drive”...

  • Page 24: Left View Features

    Using Your XPS Laptop Left View Features...
  • Page 25 NOTE: The mini‑DisplayPort connector also connects to a VGA/DVI connector through an optional mini‑DisplayPort adapter. You can purchase the VGA/DVI cable and the mini‑ DsiplayPort adapter at www.dell.com. eSATA/USB combo connector with USB PowerShare — Connects to eSATA compatible storage devices (such as external hard drives or optical drives) or USB devices (such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player).
  • Page 26 Using Your XPS Laptop...
  • Page 27 Using Your XPS Laptop USB 3.0 connectors (2) — Connect to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player; provide faster data transmission between your computer and USB devices. 5 9-in-1 Media Card Reader — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, videos, and documents stored on memory cards.

  • Page 28: Back View Features

    Using Your XPS Laptop Back View Features...
  • Page 29 Using Your XPS Laptop AC adapter connector — Connects to the AC adapter to power the computer and charge the battery. Network connector — Connects your computer to a network or a broadband device if you are using a wired network.

  • Page 30: Features

    Using Your XPS Laptop Computer Base and Keyboard Features...
  • Page 31 Using Your XPS Laptop Power button and light — Press to turn on or off your computer. The light on the button indicates the power states. For more information on the power button light, see “Status Lights and Indicators” on page 40 2 Function key row —...
  • Page 32 Using Your XPS Laptop...
  • Page 33 Using Your XPS Laptop 5 Keyboard/Backlit Keyboard — The backlit keyboard provides visibility in dark environments by illuminating all symbols on the keys. Backlit keyboard brightness settings — The Ambient Light Sensor on the display panel detects the available environment light and adjusts the brightness of the keyboard backlighting.

  • Page 34: Touch Pad Gestures

    Using Your XPS Laptop Touch Pad Gestures Scroll Allows you to scroll through content. The NOTE: Some of the touch pad gestures scroll feature includes: may be disabled by default. To change the touch pad gestures settings, double‑ Scroll Vertical — Allows you to scroll up or click the Cypress TrackPad icon in the down on the active window.
  • Page 35 Using Your XPS Laptop Flick Programs — Move four fingers up to select open Allows you to flip content forward or programs. Keep all four backward based on the direction of the flick. fingers in contact with the Flip — Move three fingers touch pad after swiping and quickly in the desired then tap the index finger...
  • Page 36 Using Your XPS Laptop Zoom Rotate Allows you to increase or decrease the Allows you to rotate the active content on the magnification of the screen content. The screen. The rotate feature includes: zoom feature includes: Twist — Allows you to rotate the active Pinch —...
  • Page 37 Using Your XPS Laptop...

  • Page 38: Multimedia Control Keys

    Using Your XPS Laptop Multimedia Control Keys The multimedia control keys are located on the function key row on the keyboard. To use the multimedia controls, press <Fn> + the required key. You can configure the multimedia control keys using the System Setup (BIOS) utility or Windows Mobility Center. System Setup Press <F2>...
  • Page 39 Using Your XPS Laptop Mute the sound Play the previous track or chapter Decrease the volume level Play or pause Increase the volume level Play the next track or chapter Eject the disc from the optical drive...

  • Page 40: Display Features

    Using Your XPS Laptop Display Features 1 2 3 4...
  • Page 41 Using Your XPS Laptop 1 Microphones (2) — Provides high‑quality sound for video conferencing and voice recording. 2 Camera indicator light — Indicates if the camera is on or off. 3 Camera — Built‑in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. The camera supports the H.264 video compression codec which provides high‑quality video at low data transmission rates.

  • Page 42: Status Lights And Indicators

    Using Your XPS Laptop Status Lights and Indicators Display-Hinge Light Indicator light status Computer state(s) Battery charge status AC adapter solid white on/off/hibernate charging breathing white standby charging off/hibernate fully charged Battery solid amber low battery (<= 10%) breathing white standby >...
  • Page 43 Using Your XPS Laptop Power Button Light Indicator light status Computer state(s) AC adapter solid white breathing white standby off/hibernate Battery solid white breathing white standby off/hibernate NOTE: For information on power problems, see “Power Problems” on page 55.

  • Page 44: Disabling Battery Charging

    Using Your XPS Laptop Disabling Battery Charging You may be required to disable the battery charging feature while on an airplane flight. To quickly disable the battery charging feature: Ensure that your computer is turned on. Press the <Fn><F3> keys on the keyboard. In the Battery Status window, click Turn off Battery Charging and then click OK.

  • Page 45: Using The Optical Drive

    Using Your XPS Laptop Using the Optical Drive CAUTION: Do not use non-standard-size or shape discs (including mini-CDs and mini-DVDs) or you will damage the drive. 12 cm NOTE: Do not move the computer while playing or recording CDs and DVDs. Place the disc in the center of the disc slot, with the label‑side up and gently push the disc into the slot.

  • Page 46: Software Features

    You can also edit recognition feature. This feature helps keep and view digital photographs and images. your Dell computer secure by learning the Check your purchase order for software unique appearance of your face and uses this installed on your computer.

  • Page 47: Nvidia 3Dtv Play

    Using Your XPS Laptop NVIDIA 3DTV Play Entertainment and Multimedia You can use your computer to watch videos, The NVIDIA 3DTV Play application installed play games, create your own CDs/DVDs, on your computer allows you to play 3D listen to music and Internet radio stations. games, watch Blu‑ray 3D videos, and browse You can download or copy pictures and video 3D photos.
  • Page 48 Using Your XPS Laptop Keyboard Shortcuts The following are some of the keyboard shortcuts available for 3D gaming: Keys Description Function <Ctrl><t> Show/hide Turns 3DTV Play on/off. stereoscopic 3D NOTE: The gaming performance may reduce effects when using HD 3D mode even if 3DTV Play is disabled.
  • Page 49 Using Your XPS Laptop <Ctrl><F6> Increases Moves objects towards you; maximum convergence convergence places all objects in front of the scene in your space; also used to place the laser sight. <Ctrl><F5> Decreases Moves objects away from you; minimum convergence convergence places all objects behind the scene in your space;...

  • Page 50: Nvidia Optimus Technology

    Using Your XPS Laptop NVIDIA Optimus 3D Photos You can view stereoscopic 3D photos using Technology the NVIDIA Photo Viewer available in the Your XPS laptop is equipped with NVIDIA’s NVIDIA 3DTV Play application. The photo Optimus technology. The Optimus viewer also allows you to edit the 3D effects technology enhances the performance of on the photo.
  • Page 51 Using Your XPS Laptop Changing the Application Profile • If an application profile exists, the NVIDIA GPU is enabled and the application Settings runs in performance mode. The NVIDIA Right‑click the desktop and select NVIDIA GPU is disabled automatically when the Control Panel.

  • Page 52: Dell Datasafe Online Backup

    Dell account. Stage. For more information, go to DellDataSafe.com. • Minimize — Drag the Dell Stage window to the bottom of the screen. To schedule backups: • Personalize — Select the settings icon and Double‑click the Dell DataSafe Online then choose the desired option.
  • Page 53 Using Your XPS Laptop The following are the applications available on • DELL WEB — Provides a preview of up to Dell Stage: four of your favorite web pages. Click or tap the web page preview to open it in the NOTE: Some of the applications may not web browser.

  • Page 54: Free Fall Sensor

    Using Your XPS Laptop Free Fall Sensor Free fall sensor protects your computer hard drive from possible damage, by detecting a free fall state caused by accidentally dropping the computer. When a free fall state is detected, the hard drive is placed in a safe state to protect against damage to the read/write head and possible data loss.

  • Page 55: Solving Problems

    Possible system board failure — guidelines, see “Using Support Tools” on BIOS ROM checksum failure page 59 or “Contacting Dell” on page 77. WARNING: Only trained service No RAM detected NOTE: If you installed or personnel should remove the computer cover.

  • Page 56: Network Problems

    Solving Problems Network Problems Wired Connections If the wired network connection is lost — Wireless Connections The network cable is loose or damaged. If the wireless network connection is lost — • Check the network cable to ensure it is The wireless router is offline or wireless has plugged in and not damaged.

  • Page 57: Power Problems

    • Reseat the AC adapter cable into both the • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see power connector on the computer and “Contacting Dell” on page 77). the electrical outlet. If the power light is breathing white — The •...

  • Page 58: Memory Problems

    If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 77). If you experience other memory problems — • Run Dell Diagnostics (see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 61). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 77).

  • Page 59: Lockups And Software Problems

    Solving Problems Lockups and Software If the computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears — Problems CAUTION: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system If the computer does not start up — Ensure shutdown.
  • Page 60 – Write down any error message that is and shut down your computer through the displayed to help in troubleshooting Start menu. when contacting Dell. • Check the software documentation or contact the software manufacturer for troubleshooting information: – Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.

  • Page 61: Using Support Tools

    The Dell Support Center provides system alerts, changes made to your computer each day. performance improvement offers, system PC Checkup Utilities information, and links to other Dell tools and • Drive Space Manager — Manage your hard diagnostic services.

  • Page 62: My Dell Downloads

    Some of the software pre‑installed on your new Dell computer do not include a backup Get Help — View Dell Technical Support CD or DVD. This software is available on options, Customer Support, Tours and Training, the My Dell Downloads website.

  • Page 63: Hardware Troubleshooter

    “Lockups incorrectly configured, you can use the and Software Problems” on page 57 and run Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for incompatibility. technical assistance. To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:...
  • Page 64 Write down the error Enhanced Pre‑boot System Assessment (ePSA) code(s) that appear on the screen and contact tests devices such as the system board, Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 77) for keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, and assistance. so on.

  • Page 65: System

    You can restore the operating system on your computer using any of the following options: CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image Restore or the Operating System disc to restore your operating system permanently deletes all data files on your computer. If possible, backup your data files before using these options.

  • Page 66: System Restore

    Restoring Your Operating System System Restore Click Next and follow the instructions on the screen. The Microsoft Windows operating systems In the event that System Restore did not provide a System Restore option which allows resolve the issue, you may undo the last you to return your computer to an earlier system restore.

  • Page 67: Dell Datasafe Local Backup

    Restoring Your Operating System Dell DataSafe Local You can use Dell DataSafe Local Backup to restore your hard drive to the operating state Backup it was in when you purchased your computer, while preserving the data files. CAUTION: Using Dell DataSafe Local...
  • Page 68 Restoring Your Operating System Upgrading to Dell DataSafe Local Turn on your computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F8> Backup Professional several times to access the Advanced Boot NOTE: Dell DataSafe Local Backup Options window. Professional may be installed on your...

  • Page 69: System Recovery Media

    Restoring Your Operating System System Recovery Media To restore the operating system and Dell factory‑installed software on your computer CAUTION: Although the system using the system recovery media: recovery media is designed to preserve Insert the system recovery disc or USB key the data files on your computer, it is and restart the computer.

  • Page 70: Dell Factory Image Restore

    Restoring Your Operating System Dell Factory Image Use Dell Factory Image Restore only as the last method to restore your operating system. Restore This option restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image the computer.
  • Page 71 Dell Factory Image Restore. Click Finish to restart the computer. Click The Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen appears. NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select Dell Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore.

  • Page 72: Getting Help

    Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do not Fill out the “Diagnostic Checklist” on have an Express Service Code, open the Dell page 76. Accessories folder, double‑click the Express Use Dell’s extensive suite of online Service Code icon, and follow the directions.

  • Page 73: Technical Support And Customer

    Technical Support and DellConnect Customer Service DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and support Dell’s support service is available to answer associate to access your computer through your questions about Dell hardware. Our a broadband connection, diagnose your support staff use computer‑based diagnostics...

  • Page 74: Online Services

    Getting Help Online Services Dell Support E-mail Addresses • mobile_support@us.dell.com You can learn about Dell products and support@us.dell.com services on the following websites: • la-techsupport@dell.com • dell.com • (Latin America and Caribbean countries only) • dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) apsupport@dell.com •...

  • Page 75: Automated Order-Status Service

    Dell, or if you would To check on the status of any Dell products like to place an order, go to the Dell website that you have ordered, you can go to at dell.com. For the telephone number to support.dell.com, or you can call the...

  • Page 76: Returning Items For Repair Under

    (see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 61). NOTE: Before you return the product to Include any accessories that belong with Dell, ensure that you back up any data the item(s) being returned (AC adapter on the hard drive(s) and on any other cable, software, guides, and so on) if the storage device in the product.

  • Page 77: Before You Call

    Getting Help Before You Call NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s automated‑support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also be asked for your Service Tag. Locating Your Service Tag The Service Tag for your computer can be found on a label at the bottom of your computer.
  • Page 78 Getting Help Remember to fill out the following Diagnostic Checklist Diagnostic Checklist. If possible, turn on your • Name: computer before you call Dell for assistance • Date: and call from a telephone at or near the • Address: computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed •...

  • Page 79: Contacting Dell

    Availability performed: varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues: dell.com/ContactDell. Go to Select your country or region.

  • Page 80: Resources

    “System Recovery Media” on page 67 run a diagnostic program for your computer “Dell Diagnostics” on page 61 reinstall system software “My Dell Downloads” on page 60 for more information about the Microsoft support.dell.com Windows operating system and features find your Service Tag/Express Service Code —...
  • Page 81 Regulatory Compliance Homepage at review Warranty information, Terms and dell.com/regulatory_compliance Conditions (U.S. only), Safety instructions, Regulatory information, Ergonomics information, and End User License Agreement find drivers and downloads; readme files support.dell.com...

  • Page 82: Specifications

    NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information on the configuration of your computer, see the Detailed System Information section in the Dell Support Center. To → All Programs→ Dell→ launch the Dell Support Center, click Start Dell Support Center→...
  • Page 83 1333 MHz SODIMM two 4‑pin USB DDR3 3.0‑compliant connectors NOTE: For instructions on upgrading the memory, see the Service Manual at Mini‑DisplayPort one 20‑pin connector support.dell.com/manuals. eSATA one 7‑pin/4‑pin eSATA/ USB combo connector Connectors with PowerShare Audio one microphone‑in Media Card one 9‑in‑1 slot...

  • Page 84: Media Card Reader

    Specifications Media Card Reader Camera Cards Secure Digital (SD) Camera 1.3 megapixel HD supported memory card resolution Secure Digital Input Video resolution 1280 x 1024 Output (SDIO) Communications Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Modem external V.92 56 K USB (optional) modem Secure Digital eXtended Capacity (SDXC)
  • Page 85 Specifications Video Display Integrated Dimensions: Video Intel HD Graphics Height 193.59 mm (7.62 inches) controller Width 344.16 mm (13.54 inches) Video up to 1.6 GB memory Diagonal 396.42 mm (15.60 inches) Discrete Maximum HD: 1366 x 768 resolution Video NVIDIA GeForce GT 525M FHD: 1920 x 1080 controller Refresh rate...
  • Page 86 Specifications Battery AC Adapter NOTE: Use only AC adapters specified 8‑cell “smart” lithium ion: for use with your computer. See the Height 11 mm (0.43 inches) safety information that shipped with Width 94.13 mm (3.70 inches) your computer. Depth 235.65 mm (9.2 inches) Input voltage 100‑240 VAC Weight...

  • Page 87: Touch Pad

    Specifications Keyboard (Backlit) Physical Number of 86 (U.S. and Canada); Height 24.4 mm (0.96 inches) keys 87 (Europe); 90 (Japan); Width 385.2 mm (15.16 inches) 87 (Brazil) Depth 260 mm (10.23 inches) Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji Weight (with configurable to less than 8‑cell battery) 2.57 kg (5.68 lb) Touch Pad...
  • Page 88 Specifications Computer Environment Computer Environment Temperature range: Maximum shock (for operating — measured with Dell Diagnostics running on the hard Operating 0° to 35°C drive and a 2‑ms half‑sine pulse; for (32° to 95°F) non‑operating — measured with the hard Storage –40°...

  • Page 89: Appendix

    The following information is provided in the device(s) described in this document in accordance with the requirements of the Official Mexican Standard (NOM): Importer: Dell México S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 – Flat 11° Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F.

  • Page 90: Index

    Index airflow, allowing 5 DataSafe Local Backup 65 DellConnect 71 Dell Factory Image Restore 68 backup and recovery 50 Dell Stage 50 Diagnostic Checklist 76 discs calling Dell 75 ejecting 43 Camera 39 drivers and downloads 79 CDs, playing and creating 45...
  • Page 91 Index mini‑DisplayPort connector 23 Multimedia Control Keys 36 finding more information 78 FTP login, anonymous 72 network connection fixing 54 hardware problems NVIDIA Optimus Technology 48 diagnosing 61 Hardware Troubleshooter 61 help Optical Drive getting assistance and support 70 Using 43 Internet connection 18 power problems, solving 55 power strips, using 6...
  • Page 92 Index System Setup entering 36 resources, finding more 78 function key behavior 36 restoring factory image 68 Touch Pad setup, before you begin 5 Gestures 32 shipping products for return or repair 74 software features 44 USB PowerShare 23 software problems 57 solving problems 53 specifications 80 warranty returns 74...

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