Dell Inspiron 1425 Setup Manual

Setup guide
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INSPIRON
SETUP GUIDE

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Summary of Contents for Dell Inspiron 1425

  • Page 1 INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE...
  • Page 3 INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE Regulatory model: P20G Regulatory type: P20G002...
  • Page 4 WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death. If you purchased a Dell n Series computer, any references in this document to the Microsoft Windows operating systems are not applicable. __________________ Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Dell DataSafe Online Backup..47 Dell Stage ......48 Right View Features .
  • Page 6 My Dell Downloads ....57 Contacting Dell..... 76 Hardware Troubleshooter .
  • Page 7: Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop

    This section provides information about WARNING: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate setting up your Dell Inspiron laptop. in the air vents. Do not place your Before Setting Up Your Dell computer in a low-airflow...
  • Page 8: Connect The Ac Adapter

    Setting Up Your Inspiron 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 Inspiron 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 Inspiron Laptop Press the Power Button...
  • Page 11: Set Up The Operating System

    Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Set Up the Operating System Your Dell computer is preconfigured with the operating system you selected at the time of purchase. Set Up Microsoft Windows To set up Microsoft Windows for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete.
  • 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 (optional) NOTE: Dell DataSafe Local Backup does not support rewritable discs.
  • Page 13 1. Ensure that the AC adapter is connected (see “Connect the AC Adapter” on page 6). 2. Insert the disc or USB key in the computer. → All Programs→ Dell DataSafe Local Backup. 3. Click Start 4. Click Create Recovery Media.
  • Page 14: Enable Or Disable Wireless

    Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional)
  • Page 15 Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop To enable or disable wireless: 1. Ensure that your computer is turned on. 2. Press <Fn> along with the < > key on the function key row on the keyboard. The current status of the wireless radios appears on the screen. Wireless enabled Wireless disabled 3.
  • Page 16: (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 1. Ensure that wireless is enabled on your computer (see “Enable or Disable Wireless...
  • Page 17 Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Setting Up Your Internet To set up your Internet connection: Connection 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. → Control Panel. 2. Click Start Contact your ISP for offerings available in your country.
  • Page 18: Using Your Inspiron Laptop

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop This section provides information about the features available on your Inspiron laptop. Right View Features...
  • Page 19 Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 Optical drive — Plays or records CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs (optional). For more information, see “Using the Optical Drive” on page 36. 2 Optical-drive light — Blinks when you press the optical-drive eject button or when you insert a disc and it is being read.
  • Page 20: Left View Features

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Left View Features...
  • Page 21 Using Your Inspiron Laptop VGA connector — Connects to a monitor or projector. HDMI connector — Connects to a TV for both 5.1 audio and video signals. NOTE: When used with a monitor, only the video signal is read. 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 22 Using Your Inspiron Laptop...
  • Page 23 Using Your Inspiron Laptop 8-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. For the supported memory cards, see “Specifications” on page 80. NOTE: Your computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the media card slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles.
  • Page 24: Back View Features

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Back View Features...
  • Page 25 Using Your Inspiron Laptop Network connector — Connects your computer to a network or broadband device if you are using a wired network. USB 3.0 connector — Provides faster data transmission between your computer and USB devices. 3 Security cable slot — Attaches a commercially available security cable to the computer. NOTE: Before you buy a security cable, ensure that it fits into the security cable slot on your computer.
  • Page 26: Front View Features

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Front View Features 1 2 3 4...
  • Page 27 Using Your Inspiron Laptop Power indicator light — Indicates the power states. For more information on the power indicator light, see “Status Lights and Indicators” on page 26. Hard-drive activity light — Turns on when the computer reads or writes data. A solid white light indicates hard drive activity.
  • Page 28: Status Lights And Indicators

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Status Lights and Indicators Battery Status Light Computer State(s) Battery Charge Status Indicator Light Status AC adapter solid white on/standby/off/ charging hibernate on/standby/off/ fully charged hibernate Battery solid amber on/standby low battery (<= 10%) on/standby/off/ not charging hibernate NOTE: The battery is charging when the computer is powered using the AC adapter.
  • Page 29: Disabling Battery Charging

    2. Click Start 3. In the search box, type Power Options and press <Enter>. 4. Under Power Options window, click Dell Battery Meter to open Battery Settings window. 5. Click Turn off Battery Charging and then click OK. NOTE: Battery charging can also be disabled in the System Setup (BIOS) utility.
  • Page 30: Features

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Computer Base and Keyboard Features...
  • Page 31 Using Your Inspiron Laptop Power button and light — Press to turn on or turn off the 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 26. 2 Function key row —...
  • Page 32 Using Your Inspiron Laptop 5 6 7...
  • Page 33 Windows Mobility Center provides quick access to your mobile PC settings such as brightness control, volume control, battery status, wireless network and so on. Dell Support Center button — Press to launch the Dell Support Center. For more information, see “Dell Support Center” on page 56.
  • Page 34: Touch Pad Gestures

    Using Your Inspiron 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, Auto Scroll Vertical — Allows you to scroll →...
  • Page 35 Using Your Inspiron Laptop Zoom Flick Allows you to increase or decrease the Allows you to flip content forward or magnification of the screen content. The backward based on the direction of the flick. zoom feature includes: Move three fingers quickly in Pinch —...
  • Page 36: Multimedia Control Keys

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Multimedia Control Keys The multimedia control keys are located on the function key row on the keyboard. To use the multimedia controls, press the required key. You can configure the multimedia control keys on the keyboard using the System Setup (BIOS) utility or the Windows Mobility Center. System Setup 1.
  • Page 37 Using Your Inspiron Laptop Play the previous track or chapter Decrease the volume level Play or pause Increase the volume level Play the next track or chapter Mute the sound...
  • Page 38: Using The Optical Drive

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Using the Optical Drive CAUTION: Do not press down on the optical-drive tray when you open or close it. Keep the optical-drive tray closed when you are not using the drive. CAUTION: Do not move the computer while playing or recording a disc. The optical drive plays or records CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs (optional).
  • Page 39 Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 disc 2 spindle 3 optical-drive tray 4 emergency eject hole 5 optical-drive eject button...
  • Page 40: Display Features

    Using Your Inspiron Laptop Display Features...
  • Page 41 Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 Microphone — Provides high quality sound for video conferencing and voice recording. 2 Camera — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. 3 Camera indicator light — Indicates if the camera is on or off. A solid white light indicates camera activity.
  • Page 42: Removing And Replacing The Top

    (including the AC adapter). To remove the top cover: 1. Turn off the computer and close the display. 2. Press and hold the top cover release button, and then slide the top cover. NOTE: You can purchase additional replaceable top covers at dell.com.
  • Page 43 Using Your Inspiron Laptop back of the computer top cover top cover release button...
  • Page 44 Using Your Inspiron Laptop To replace the top cover: NOTE: Ensure that the Dell logo is facing towards the back of the computer while replacing the top cover. 1. Align the top cover to the display back. 2. Slide the top cover until it clicks into place. Ensure that there are no gaps between the top...
  • Page 45 Using Your Inspiron Laptop...
  • Page 46: Removing And Replacing The Battery

    WARNING: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. This computer should only use a battery purchased from Dell. Do not use batteries from other computers. WARNING: Before removing the battery, shut down the computer, and remove external cables (including the AC adapter).
  • Page 47 Using Your Inspiron Laptop battery lock latch battery battery release latch...
  • Page 48: Software Features

    Internet radio stations. recognition feature. This feature helps keep You can download or copy pictures and video your Dell computer secure by learning the files from portable devices, such as digital unique appearance of your face and uses this cameras and cell phones.
  • Page 49: Dell Datasafe Online Backup

    NOTE: A broadband connection is 2. Follow the instructions on the screen. recommended for fast upload/download speeds. Dell DataSafe Online is an automated backup and recovery service that helps protect your data and other important files from catastrophic incidents like theft, fire, or natural disasters.
  • Page 50: Dell Stage

    Dell upload them to Facebook or Flickr when connected to the Internet. Stage. • Minimize — Drag the Dell Stage window to the bottom of the screen. • Customize — Select the settings icon and then choose the desired option.
  • Page 51 Using Your Inspiron Laptop • DELL WEB — Provides a preview of up to four of your favorite web pages. Click the web page preview to open it in the web browser. • VIDEO — View videos. The optional CinemaNow application allows you to ‘purchase and download’...
  • Page 52: Solving Problems

    This series of beeps, called a beep code, Five Real Time Clock failure identifies a problem. If this occurs, write Video card or chip failure down the beep code and contact Dell (see Seven Processor failure “Contacting Dell” on page 76) for assistance. Eight...
  • Page 53: 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 54 • Check the AC adapter cable connections. • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that “Contacting Dell” on page 76). the light on the AC adapter is on.
  • Page 55: Memory Problems

    • Reseat the memory module(s) into the responding. connector(s) (see the Service Manual at 4. Click End Task. support.dell.com/manuals). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 76). If you experience other memory problems — • Run Dell Diagnostics (see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 58).
  • Page 56 Solving Problems If a program crashes repeatedly — Check If a program is designed for an earlier the software documentation. If necessary, Microsoft Windows operating system — uninstall and then reinstall the program. Run the Program Compatibility Wizard. The NOTE: Software usually includes Program Compatibility Wizard configures a installation instructions in its program so that it runs in an environment...
  • Page 57 – Write down any error message that is troubleshooting information: displayed to help in troubleshooting – Ensure that the program is compatible when contacting Dell. with the operating system installed on your computer. – Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software.
  • Page 58: Using Support Tools

    The Dell Support Center provides system changes made to your computer each day. alerts, performance improvement offers, PC Checkup Utilities system information, and links to other Dell • Drive Space Manager — Manage your hard tools and diagnostic services. drive using a visual representation of space To launch the application, press the Dell consumed by each type of file.
  • Page 59: 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 the options, Customer Support, Tours and My Dell Downloads web site.
  • Page 60: Hardware Troubleshooter

    “Lockups incorrectly configured, you can use the and Software Problems” on page 53 and Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the run Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell incompatibility. for technical assistance. To start the Hardware Troubleshooter: Ensure that the device that you want to test displays in the system setup utility and is →...
  • Page 61 Using Support Tools 1. Turn on (or restart) your computer. If the Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, the following 2. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> message appears: “Do you want to run immediately. the remaining memory tests? This...
  • Page 62: Restoring Your Operating

    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 63: System Restore

    Restoring Your Operating System System Restore Starting System Restore 1. Click Start The Microsoft Windows operating systems 2. In the search box, type System Restore provide a System Restore option which allow you to return your computer to an earlier and press <Enter>.
  • Page 64: Dell Datasafe Local Backup

    2. In the search box, type System Restore install on your computer before using and press <Enter>. Dell DataSafe Local Backup. Use Dell 3. Click Undo my last restoration and click DataSafe Local Backup only if System Next.
  • Page 65: Dell Datasafe Local Backup Basic

    You can use Dell DataSafe Local Backup to internal hardware. restore your hard drive to the operating state NOTE: Do not disconnect the AC it was in when you purchased your computer, adapter.
  • Page 66 • Backup and restore your computer based support.dell.com. on file types • Backup files to a local storage device • Schedule automated backups To upgrade to Dell DataSafe Local Backup Professional: 1. Double-click the Dell DataSafe Local Backup icon in the notification area of your desktop.
  • Page 67: System Recovery Media

    1. Insert the system recovery disc or USB key the data files on your computer, it is and restart the computer. recommended that you backup your 2. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> data files before using the system immediately. recovery media.
  • Page 68: 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 69 User system and factory-installed applications name field, then click OK. have been restored to factory condition. 6. Click Dell Factory Image Restore. 9. Click Finish to restart the computer. The Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen appears.
  • Page 70: Getting Help

    3. Fill out the “Diagnostic Checklist” on the proper support personnel. If you do not page 75. have an Express Service Code, open the Dell 4. Use Dell’s extensive suite of online Accessories folder, double-click the Express services available at Dell Support Service Code icon, and follow the directions.
  • Page 71: 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...
  • Page 72: Online Services

    Getting Help Online Services Dell Support E-mail Addresses • mobile_support@us.dell.com You can learn about Dell products and services on the following web sites: • support@us.dell.com • dell.com • la-techsupport@dell.com (Latin America and Caribbean countries only) • dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) • apsupport@dell.com (Asian/Pacific • dell.com/jp (Japan only) countries only) • euro.dell.com (Europe only)
  • Page 73: 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 dell.com. For the that you have ordered, you can go to telephone number to call for your region or support.dell.com, or you can call the...
  • Page 74: Returning Items For Repair Under

    Getting Help Returning Items for 1. Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly Repair Under Warranty or and prominently on the outside of the box. For the telephone number to call for Credit for your region, see “Contacting Dell” on Prepare all items being returned, whether for page 76.
  • Page 75 NOTE: You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted. NOTE: Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at Dell’s receiving dock and...
  • Page 76: 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 and Express Service Code The Service Tag and Express Service Code for your computer can be found on a label at the bottom of your computer.
  • Page 77 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 • Phone number:...
  • Page 78: Contacting Dell

    Availability 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: 1. Go to dell.com/ContactDell. 2. Select your country or region.
  • Page 79 Getting Help...
  • Page 80: Resources

    Service Tag/Express Service Code — the bottom of your computer You must use the service tag to identify your the Dell Support Center. For more computer on support.dell.com or to contact information, see “Dell Support Center” on technical support...
  • Page 81 Warranty information, Terms and Conditions (U.S. only), Safety instructions, Regulatory information, Ergonomics information, and End User License Agreement support.dell.com...
  • Page 82: Specifications

    NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, see the Detailed System Information section in the Dell Support Center. → All Programs→ Dell→ Dell Support To launch the Dell Support Center, click Start Center→...
  • Page 83 DDR3 Mini-Card one half Mini-Card slot NOTE: For instructions on upgrading the memory, see the Service Manual HDMI connector one 19-pin connector at support.dell.com/manuals. Network adapter one RJ45 connector three 4-pin USB 3.0-compliant connectors Video one 15-hole connector...
  • Page 84: Media Card Reader

    Specifications Media Card Reader Communications Cards Secure Digital (SD) Modem external V.92 56 K USB supported memory card (optional) modem Secure Digital Extended Network 10/100 Ethernet LAN on Capacity (SDXC) adapter system board Secure Digital High Wireless WLAN, Wi-Fi abgn/bgn, Capacity (SDHC) and Bluetooth wireless technology (optional)
  • Page 85 Specifications Audio Display Type 14.0-inch HD WLED Audio controller Realtek ALC269 HD TrueLife Speakers 2 x 2 Watt Dimensions: Volume controls software program menus Height 309.40 mm (12.18 inches) and media controls Width 173.95 mm (6.85 inches) Camera Diagonal 355.60 mm (14.00 inches) Camera 1.0 megapixel Maximum...
  • Page 86: Touch Pad

    Specifications Touch Pad Battery X/Y position 240 cpi 9-cell “smart” lithium ion: resolution Height 22.80 mm (graphics table (0.90 inches) mode) Width 214.00 mm Size: (8.43 inches) Height 44.00 mm (1.73 inches) Depth 78.76 mm (3.10 inches) Width 82.00 mm (3.23 inches) Weight 0.52 kg (1.15 lb) Battery...
  • Page 87 Specifications AC Adapter AC Adapter NOTE: Use only AC adapters specified Temperature range: for use with your computer. See the Operating 0° to 40°C safety information that shipped with (32° to 104°F) your computer. Storage –40° to 70°C Input voltage 100-240 VAC (–40°...
  • 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

    Voltage Frequency consumption voltage intensity P20G 100-240 50-60 Hz 1.50 A/1.60 A/ 19.50 VDC 3.34 A/4.62 A 1.70 A/2.50 A For details, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
  • Page 90: Index

    DataSafe Local Backup Basic 63 Professional 64 backup and recovery 47 DellConnect 69 battery status light 25 Dell Factory Image Restore 66 Dell Support Center 56 Dell Support Web Sites 70 calling Dell 74 Diagnostic Checklist 75 CDs, playing and creating 46...
  • Page 91 Index finding more information 78 Internet connection 14 FTP login, anonymous 70 Internet Service Provider 14 gestures Touch Pad 32 memory problems solving 53 hard drive activity light 25 hardware problems network connection diagnosing 58 fixing 51 Hardware Troubleshooter 58 HDMI connector 19 Optical Drive help...
  • Page 92 Index software problems 53 solving problems 50 power indicator light 25 specifications 80 power problems, solving 51 support e-mail addresses 70 power strips, using 6 support sites problems, solving 50 worldwide 70 products System Recovery Media 65 information and purchasing 71 system reinstall options 60 System Restore 61 resources, finding more 78...
  • Page 93 Index warranty returns 72 Windows Program Compatibility Wizard 54 Windows Mobility Center 34 wired network network cable, connecting 7 problems 51 wireless network connecting 12 problems 51...
  • Page 96 Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.com...

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