Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, Dell TravelLite, PowerEdge, PowerVault, PowerApp, Strikezone, and Dell

OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Intel SpeedStep, and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, MS-DOS, Outlook, and Windows are registered

trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Inc. under license; ENERGY STAR is a registered

trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy

efficiency, EMC is the registered trademark of EMC Corporation.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any

proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Model PP11L

March 2005 P/N W7411 Rev. A01

Travelling With Your Computer

Passwords

Solving Problems

Dell Diagnostics

Cleaning Your Computer

Reinstalling Software

Adding and Replacing Parts

Using the System Setup Program

Alert Standard Format (ASF)

Getting Help

Specifications

Appendix

Glossary

Table of Contents

Summary of Contents for Dell Precision M20

Page 1 EMC is the registered trademark of EMC Corporation. Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Page 2: About Your Computer
Back to Contents Page About Your Computer Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide Front View Left View Right View Back View Bottom View Front View display speakers power button track stick/touch pad buttons device status lights track stick keyboard volume control buttons touch pad...
Page 3 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: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is flashing.
Page 4: Left View
The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fans or the computer. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your Dell™ 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 5: Right View
infrared sensor — Lets you transfer files from your computer to another infrared-compatible device without using cable connections. When you receive your computer, the sensor is disabled. You can use the system setup program to enable the sensor. For information on transferring data, see Windows Help, the Help and Support Center, or the documentation that came with your infrared-compatible device.
Page 6: Back View
USB connectors module bay — You can install devices such as an optical drive or a Dell TravelLite™ module in the module bay. For more information, see "Using the Module Bay." device latch release — Releases the module bay device. See "Using the Module Bay" for instructions. Back View 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.
Page 7: Bottom View
parallel connector Connects a parallel device, such as a printer. video connector Connects an external monitor. For more information, see "Using the Display." serial connector Connects serial devices, such as a mouse or handheld device. AC adapter connector — Attach an AC adapter to the computer.
Page 8 memory module cover docking device slot battery-bay latch release battery charge gauge Mini PCI card/modem cover battery hard drive memory module cover — Covers the compartment that contains the memory module(s). See "Adding and Replacing Parts." battery-bay latch release — Releases the battery.
Page 9: Macrovision Product Notice
FCC Notices (U.S. Only) Most Dell computers are classified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as Class B digital devices. To determine which classification applies to your computer, examine all FCC registration labels located on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, on card-mounting brackets, and on the cards themselves.
Page 11: Alert Standard Format (Asf)
Periodic heartbeats have been transmitted to verify system Entity Presence presence. For more information about Dell's ASF implementation, see ASF for Dell Portable Computers and the ASF Administrator's Guide for Dell Portable Computers, which are available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. Back to Contents Page...
Page 12: Using A 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 lithium-ion battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.
Page 13: Charging The Battery
The following icons appear in the Battery Meter window: The computer or docking device is running on battery power. The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is charging. The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is fully charged. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.
Page 14: Removing A Battery
NOTE: The AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately 1 hour with the computer turned off. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer as long as you like. The battery's internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.
Page 15: Using The Module Bay
Back to Contents Page Using the Module Bay Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide About the Module Bay About the Device Security Screw Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running About the Module Bay ...
Page 16: Removing And Installing Devices While The Computer Is Running
3. Pull the device out of the module bay. 4. Push the new device into the bay until it clicks. Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running NOTICE: If the device security screw is installed, you must turn off the computer before removing the screw. ...
Page 17 3. Pull the device out of the module bay. 4. Push the new device into the bay until it clicks. The operating system automatically recognizes the device. 5. Click Close (in Windows 2000). 6. If necessary, enter your password to unlock your computer. Back to Contents Page ...
Page 18: Using Cds, Dvds, And Other Multimedia
Back to Contents Page Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide Playing a CD or DVD Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device Playing a CD or DVD NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive.
Page 19: Adjusting The Picture
If available in your country, cables may be purchased at most consumer electronics stores or from Dell. Your computer has an S-video TV-out connector that, together with a standard S-video cable (available from Dell), enables you to connect the computer to a...
Page 20 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 S-video connector Your TV has either an S-video input connector or a composite video-input connector. Depending on what type of connector is available on your TV, you can use a commercially available S-video cable or composite video cable to connect your computer to your TV. It is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the following combinations.
Page 21: Composite Video And Standard Audio
6. Turn on the TV and any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 7. See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV in Microsoft® Windows® XP" to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. ...
Page 22 2. Insert a DVD into the DVD drive. If the DVD begins playing, click the stop button. 3. Click Settings. 4. Click DVD. 5. Click the DVD Audio Setting icon. 6. Click the arrows beside the Speaker Configuration setting to scroll through the options, and select Headphones. ...
Page 23: Cleaning Your Computer
Back to Contents Page Cleaning Your Computer Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide Computer, Keyboard, and Display Floppy Drive (Optional) CDs and DVDs CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
Page 25: When To Use The Dell Diagnostics
4. Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. NOTE: If you cannot see anything on your display, hold down the mute button and press the computer's power button to begin the Dell Diagnostics. The computer automatically runs the Pre-boot System Assessment. NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities CD.
Page 26: Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
4. When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities CD, remove the CD. 5. When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the Main Menu screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the Main Menu screen.
Page 27: Using The Display
Before you change any of the default display settings, make a note of the default settings for future reference. NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with your Dell-installed operating system. ...
Page 28: Dual Independent Display Mode
Windows 2000 1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2. Double-click the Display icon and click the Settings tab. 3. Try different settings for Colors and Screen area. NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen. If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode.
Page 29: Swapping Primary And Secondary Displays
Windows 2000 NOTE: The Windows XP operating system does not support large desktop display mode. To activate large desktop mode on two external displays that are attached to the VGA or DVI connectors on the docking device, your computer must be connected to the docking device and the portable computer display closed.
Page 30: Reinstalling Software
A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only its driver recognizes. Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no further installation or configuration is needed. NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may contain drivers for operating systems that are not on your computer.
Page 31: Using The Drivers And Utilities Cd
2. Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance. 3. Click System. 4. In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab. 5. Click Device Manager. 6. Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties. ...
Page 32: Resolving Software And Hardware Incompatibilities
8. Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously extracted the driver files. 9. When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next. 10. Click Finish and restart your computer. Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
Page 33: Creating A Restore Point
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them. NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not work if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view. Creating a Restore Point 1. Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
Page 34: Before You Begin
The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.
Page 35 5. Press <Enter> to select the highlighted partition (recommended), and follow the instructions on the screen. The Windows XP Setup screen appears, and the operating system begins to copy files and install the devices. The computer automatically restarts multiple times. NOTE: The time required to complete the setup depends on the size of the hard drive and the speed of your computer.
Page 36: Finding Information
NOTE: The Quick Reference Guide is optional and may not ship with your computer. NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at support.dell.com. Warranty information Dell™ Product Information Guide Terms and Conditions (U.S. only) Safety instructions Regulatory information Ergonomics information End User License Agreement...
Page 37 NSS utility. NSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for Dell™ 3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel® Pentium® M processors, optical drives, and USB devices. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration.
Page 39: Getting Help
Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries. When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder, double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.
Page 40: Problems With Your Order
Product Information If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For the telephone number to call to speak to a sales specialist, see the contact numbers for your region.
Page 41: Before You Call
In certain countries, technical support specific to Dell Inspiron™ XPS computers is available at a separate telephone number listed for participating countries. If you do not see a telephone number listed that is specific for Inspiron XPS computers, you may contact Dell through the technical support number listed and your call will be routed appropriately.
Page 42 E-mail for French-speaking Customers: Belgium (Brussels) support.euro.dell.com/be/fr/emaildell/ Technical Support for Inspiron XPS computers only 02 481 92 96 International Access Code: 00 Technical Support for all other Dell computers 02 481 92 88 Country Code: 32 Technical Support Fax 02 481 92 95 Customer Care 02 713 15 .65 City Code: 2 Corporate Sales 02 481 91 00...
Page 43 Switchboard 22537 2711 Website: support.euro.dell.com E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/dk/da/emaildell/ Technical Support for Inspiron XPS computers only 7010 0074 Technical Support for all other Dell computers 7023 0182 Denmark (Copenhagen) Customer Care (Relational) 7023 0184 International Access Code: 00 Home/Small Business Customer Care 3287 5505...
Page 44 E-mail: support.euro.dell.com/fr/fr/emaildell/ Home and Small Business Technical Support for Inspiron XPS computers only 0825 387 129 Technical Support for all other Dell computers 0825 387 270 Customer Care 0825 823 833 France (Paris) (Montpellier) Switchboard 0825 004 700 Switchboard (calls from outside of France) 04 99 75 40 00...
Page 45 0120-198-226 Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and Inspiron) 81-44-520-1435 Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) toll-free:0120-198-433 Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) 81-44-556-3894 Japan (Kawasaki) Technical Support (PDAs, projectors, printers, routers) toll-free: 0120-981-690...
Page 46 Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China) 29 693 115 Website: support.ap.dell.com Malaysia (Penang) Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) toll-free: 1 800 88 0193 Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and Electronics and Accessories) toll-free: 1 800 88 1306 International Access Code: 00 Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) toll-free: 1800 88 1386...
Page 47 Grenadines Website: support.ap.dell.com Singapore (Singapore) Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and Electronics and Accessories) toll-free: 1800 394 7430 Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision) toll-free: 1800 394 7488 International Access Code: 005 Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) toll-free: 1800 394 7478 Country Code: 65 Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949...
Page 48 Transaction Sales toll-free: 00801 65 1228 Corporate Sales toll-free: 00801 651 227 Website: support.ap.dell.com Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision) toll-free: 1800 0060 07 Thailand Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) toll-free: 1800 0600 09 International Access Code: 001 Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4949 Country Code: 66 Corporate Sales toll-free: 1800 006 009...
Page 49 Software and Peripherals Sales toll-free: 1-800-671-3355 Spare Parts Sales toll-free: 1-800-357-3355 Extended Service and Warranty Sales toll-free: 1-800-247-4618 toll-free: 1-800-727-8320 toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or Speech-Impaired (1-877-335-5889) U.S. Virgin Islands General Support 1-877-673-3355 Venezuela General Support 8001-3605 Back to Contents Page...
Page 50 Back to Contents Page Glossary Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide A B C D E G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W X Z Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer.
Page 51 carnet — An international customs document that facilitates temporary imports into foreign countries. Also known as a merchandise passport. CD — compact disc — An optical form of storage media, typically used for audio and software programs. CD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read data from CDs. CD player —...
Page 52 — A connector on the system board (in some computers) where you insert an expansion card, connecting it to the system bus. 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 53 HTTP — hypertext transfer protocol — A protocol for exchanging files between computers connected to the Internet. Hz — hertz — A unit of frequency measurement that equals 1 cycle per second. Computers and electronic devices are often measured in kilohertz (kHz), megahertz (MHz), gigahertz (GHz), or terahertz (THz).
Page 54 — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, and internal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail. module bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module. monitor — The high-resolution TV-like device that displays computer output.
Page 55 — An I/O port often used to connect devices such as a handheld digital device or digital camera to your computer. Service Tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service or technical support.
Page 56 The number of colors and resolution that a program displays depends on the capabilities of the monitor, the video controller and its drivers, and the amount of video memory installed in the computer. S-video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or digital audio device to the computer. SXGA —...
Page 57 wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in your favorite picture and make it wallpaper. write-protected — Files or media that cannot be changed. Use write-protection when you want to protect data from being changed or destroyed. To write- protect a 3.5-inch floppy, slide its write-protect tab to the open position.
Page 58: Using The Keyboard And Touch Pad
<Ctrl><Shift><Esc> Opens the Task Manager window <Fn><F4> Enables and disables the numeric keypad <Fn><F5> Enables and disables the scroll lock Battery <Fn><F3> Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter CD or DVD Tray <Fn><F10> Ejects the tray out of the drive (if Dell QuickSet is installed). ...
Page 59: Touch Pad
<Fn> and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). <Fn> and down-arrow Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). Radios (Including Wireless Networking and Bluetooth® Wireless Technology <Fn><F2> Enables and disables radios, including wireless networking and Bluetooth wireless technology ...
Page 60: Changing The Track Stick Cap
3. Click OK to save the settings and close the window. Changing the Track Stick Cap You can replace your track stick cap if it wears down from prolonged use or if you prefer a different color. You can purchase additional caps by visiting the Dell website at www.dell.com.
Page 61: About Passwords
If you forget any of your passwords, contact your system administrator or contact Dell. For your protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.
Page 62: Using A Hard Drive Password
You can also use the Asset Tag utility to enter an owner tag that appears in the system log-on screen and with the primary password prompt. Download the Dell Portables Asset Tag utility from the support.dell.com website to create bootable media (such as a bootable CD or floppy disk), and then use the bootable media to assign an asset tag.
Page 63 For example, type the following command line and press <Enter>: asset 1234$ABCD& NOTE: An asset tag can have up to 10 characters; any combination of characters excluding spaces is valid. 6. When the computer prompts you to verify the asset tag, type y. The computer displays the new or modified asset tag and the Service Tag.
Page 64: Enabling The Tpm Feature
If you use TPM, you must follow the backup procedures in the documentation that came with the software to secure your TPM data and encryption keys. In the event of these backups being incomplete, lost, or damaged, Dell will be unable to assist in the recovery of encrypted data.
Page 65 c. Follow the on-screen instructions to activate the TPM setup program. You only need to activate the program once. You will be prompted to reboot your computer once the process is complete. 6. Physically activate the TPM: a. Restart the computer and press <F2> during the Power On Self Test to enter the system setup program. b.
Page 66: Using Pc Cards
Back to Contents Page Using PC Cards Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide PC Card Types PC Card Blanks Extended PC Cards Installing a PC Card Removing a PC Card or Blank PC Card Types See "Specifications" for information on supported PC Cards. NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device.
Page 67: Removing A Pc Card Or Blank
The computer recognizes most PC Cards and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the floppy or CD that came with the PC Card. Removing a PC Card or Blank NOTICE: Use the PC Card configuration utility (click the icon in the taskbar) to select a card and stop it from functioning before you remove it from...
Page 68: Power Management Tips
Back to Contents Page Power Management Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide Power Management Tips Power Management Wizard Power Management Modes Power Options Properties Power Management Tips NOTE: "Using a Battery" for more information on conserving battery power. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible because battery life is largely determined by the number of times the battery is charged.
Page 69: Power Management Modes
QuickSet (not Microsoft® Windows®) for the Network Disabled power scheme to work. The screen allows you to select, create, and edit power scheme settings. In addition, you can delete power schemes that you create, but you cannot delete Dell™ QuickSet predefined power schemes (Maximum Battery, Maximum Performance, Presentation, and Network Disabled). NOTE: QuickSet automatically adds the word (QuickSet) after the names of power schemes created using QuickSet.
Page 70: Power Options Properties
Press <Fn><Esc>. ¡ To exit standby mode, press the power button or open the display depending on how you set the options on the Advanced tab. You cannot make the computer exit standby mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad or track stick. ...
Page 71: Advanced Tab
The Power Meter tab displays the current power source and amount of battery charge remaining. Advanced Tab The Advanced tab allows you to: Set power icon and standby mode password options. Program the following functions (depending on your operating system): Prompt a user for an action (Ask me what to do).
Page 72: Dell™ Quickset Features
Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer. Dell QuickSet runs from the icon located in the taskbar and functions differently when you click, double-click, or right-click the icon. Clicking the QuickSet Icon Click the icon to perform the following tasks: Adjust power management settings using the...
Page 73: Adding And Replacing Parts
Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins. NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.
Page 74 If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module.
Page 75 NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory-module securing clips. 3. If you are replacing a memory module, ground yourself and remove the existing module: a. Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up. b.
Page 76 1 captive screw NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory-module securing clips. 3. If you are replacing a memory module, ground yourself and remove the existing module: a. Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up. b.
Page 77 If you ordered the optional modem at the same time that you ordered your computer, the modem is already installed CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. ...
Page 78: Mini Pci Card
7. Install the screws to secure the modem to the system board. 8. Replace the cover. Mini PCI Card If you ordered a Mini PCI card with your computer, the card is already installed. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. ...
Page 79: Hard Drive
b. Release the Mini PCI card by spreading the metal securing tabs until the card pops up slightly. c. Lift the Mini PCI card out of its connector. NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors and realign the card. 1 Mini PCI card 2 metal securing tabs (2) ...
Page 80: 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. To replace the hard drive in the hard drive bay: ...
Page 81 1. Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin." 2. Turn the computer right-side up and open it. display center control cover computer base 3. Remove the center control cover: a. Open the display all the way (180 degrees) so that it lies flat against your work surface. b.
Page 82: Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology
M2.5 x 6-mm screws (2) keyboard connector pull-tab keyboard tabs palm rest Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, read the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching a connector on the back panel of the computer.
Page 83: Coin-Cell Battery
Coin-Cell Battery CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, read the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching a connector on the back panel of the computer.
Page 84 5. Replace the cover. Back to Contents Page ...
Page 85: Using The System Setup Program
System security and hard-drive password settings NOTICE: 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. Viewing the System Setup Screens ...
Page 86: Changing Printer Modes
4. 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 88: Using Smart Cards
Back to Contents Page Using Smart Cards Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide About Smart Cards Installing a Smart Card NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer. About Smart Cards Smart cards are portable credit-card shaped devices with internal integrated circuits. The top surface of the smart card usually contains an embedded processor located under the gold contact pad.
Page 89: Solving Problems
Check for hardware incompatibilities Run the Dell Diagnostics CD and DVD drive problems NOTE: High-speed CD or DVD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD or DVD.
Page 90: E-Mail, Modem, And Internet Problems
If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray 1. Ensure that the computer is shut down. 2. Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive; push firmly until the tray is partially ejected. 3.
Page 91: Error Messages
Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware. Error Messages...
Page 92 Extended memory size has changed — The amount of memory recorded in NVRAM does not match the memory installed in the computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again, contact Dell. Gate A20 failure — A memory module may be loose.
Page 93: Ieee 1394 Device Problems
A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics. Operating system not found — Reinstall the hard drive. If the problem persists, contact Dell. Optional ROM bad checksum — The optional ROM apparently failed. Contact Dell. ...
Page 94: Keyboard Problems
Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks. NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when working in MS-DOS® mode or when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional. ...
Page 95: Lockups And Software Problems
Disable the numeric keypad — Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric 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 safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. ...
Page 96: Memory Problems
Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware. ...
Page 97: Pc Card Problems
Ensure that the card is recognized by Windows — Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware (Unplug or Eject Hardware in Windows 2000) icon in the Windows taskbar. Ensure that the card is listed. If you have problems with a Dell-provided PC Card — Contact Dell. If you have problems with a PC Card not provided by Dell — Contact the PC Card manufacturer.
Page 98: Printer Problems
Docking While the Computer Is Running If a computer is connected to the Dell D/Dock or Dell D/Port while the computer is running, presence of the docking device is ignored until the AC adapter is connected to the computer.
Page 99: Scanner Problems
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. 2. Click Properties and click the Ports tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). For a USB printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB.
Page 100: Touch Pad Or Mouse Problems
Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference. Reinstall the audio driver Run the Dell Diagnostics No sound from headphones Check the headphone cable connection — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the audio connectors ...
Page 101: Video And Display Problems
Test the mouse controller — To test the mouse controller (which affects 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. Reinstall the touch pad driver —...
Page 102: If Only Part Of The Display Is Readable
3. Try different settings for Colors, Screen area, and Advanced Settings. Run the Video diagnostics tests — If no error message appears and you still have a display problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the Dell Diagnostics. Then contact Dell. ...
Page 103: Specifications
Back to Contents Page Specifications Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide Processor Processor type Intel® Pentium® M L1 cache 32-KB instruction and 32-KB write-back data cache L2 cache 2 MB External bus frequency 533 MHz System Information System chipset Intel 915PM, ICH6-M Processor Side Data bus width...
Page 104 Communications Modem: Type v.92 56K MDC (optional) Controller softmodem Interface internal AC'97 bus Network adapter 10/100/1000 Ethernet LAN on system board Wireless internal Mini PCI Wi-Fi (802.11b, 802.11b/g, or 802.11a/b/g) and Bluetooth® wireless technology (optional) Video Video type discrete video adapter, 128-bit hardware accelerated Data bus PCI-E x16 Video controller...
Page 105 Keyboard Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe); 91 (Japan) Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/Kanji Touch Pad X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) 240 cpi Size: Width 64.88 mm (2.55-inch) sensor-active area Height 48.88-mm (1.92-inch) rectangle Track Stick X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) 250 count/sec @ 100 gf Size protrudes 0.5 mm higher than surrounding keycaps ...
Page 106 57.9 mm (2.28 inches) (65 W) Temperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) (both) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) (both) Physical Height 34.3 mm (1.35 inches) Width 312 mm (12.28 inches) Depth 262.2 mm (10.32 inches) Weight: With travel module 2.196 kg (4.88 lb) (6 cell) 2.115 kg (4.70 lb) (4 cell) With CD drive 2.3895 kg (5.31 lb) (6 cell)
Page 107 EMC is the registered trademark of EMC Corporation. Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Page 108: Travelling With Your Computer
Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case. Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell. Create a file on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop called if_found. Place information such as your name, address, and telephone number in this file.
Page 109: If Your Computer Is Lost Or Stolen
If possible, give the name of the investigating officer. The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the computer Service Tag and flag the computer as missing or stolen. If someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives your Service Tag, the computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen.
Page 110: Connecting To A Wireless Local Area Network
The user's guide is located on your Drivers and Utilities CD (that came with your computer) in the "User's Guides-Network User's Guides" category. The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
Page 111 (identified by a icon), you must enter a WEP or WPA key when prompted. NOTE: Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information. Your network is configured automatically. NOTE: Your computer can take up to 1 minute to connect to the network.
Page 112: Using Microsoft® Windows® Xp
Back to Contents Page Using Microsoft® Windows® XP Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M20 User's Guide Help and Support Center User Accounts and Fast User Switching Microsoft® Windows® Classic View Setting Up a Home and Office Network Desktop Cleanup Wizard Network Setup Wizard Transferring Information to a New Computer Internet Connection Firewall Help and Support Center...
Page 113: Desktop Cleanup Wizard
Desktop Cleanup Wizard Your computer is set up to use the Desktop Cleanup Wizard to move programs that are not frequently used to a designated folder 7 days after you first start your computer and every 60 days after that. The appearance of the Start menu changes as programs are moved. To turn off the Desktop Cleanup Wizard, perform the following steps.
Page 114: Setting Up A Home And Office Network
5. On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next. 6. On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer. 7. On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer and click Next. After the information has been copied, the Completing the Collection Phase screen appears.
Page 115: Network Setup Wizard
1. Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer. NOTE: Insert the cable until it clicks into place, and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure. 2. Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device, such as a network wall connector. NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall connector.

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