Dell™ Inspiron™ 1525/1526 Owner’s Manual Model PP29L w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l .
Notes, Notices, and Cautions NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer. NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death. ___________________ Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2007 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Contents Finding Information 1 About Your Computer Front View 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Right Side View Back View 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Left Side View Bottom View 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting Up Your Computer . Connecting to the Internet . . .
3 Using the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Adjusting Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Switching the Video Image From Your Computer Display To a Projector . . . 4 . . . . . . . . . Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate . . . . . . 38 Using the Keyboard and Touchpad . . . . . 39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Numeric Keypad Key Combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conserving Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Using the Sleep Power State Storing a Battery 6 47 . . . . Configuring Power Management Settings . Using Multimedia Playing Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio HDMI (Optional) . . . . 71 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 . . . . . . . 74 . . . . . . . . . . . 75 . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Enabling the Display Settings for a TV 7 Using the Optional Camera Accessing the Camera’s Help File Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings . . . . . . . . 76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wireless Local Area Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Checking Your Wireless Network Card . . . . . . Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem Connecting to a WLAN . 84 84 84 . . . . 85 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network) . . . . . . . . . . . What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection . . . . .
Network Assistant PC TuneUp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 PC CheckUp Drive Problems Optical drive problems Hard drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . Error Messages . . . . . . . . 104 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 ExpressCard Problems . . . . .
Printer Problems Scanner Problems . 120 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sound and Speaker Problems 120 . . . . . . . . . 121 121 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 No sound from headphones Touch Pad or Mouse Problems If the display is blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No sound from external speakers Video and Display Problems 120 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136 Replacing the Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 Returning a Hard Drive to Dell Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 Removing the Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 Replacing the Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 Hinge Cover Removing the Hinge Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13 Traveling With Your Computer Identifying Your Computer 153 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154 Packing the Computer . Travel Tips . . . . . . . Traveling by Air . 14 Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Obtaining Assistance 155 155 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156 Technical Support and Customer Service DellConnect 154 .
A Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using the System Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172 172 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174 Commonly Used Options Cleaning Your Computer . 171 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Viewing the System Setup Screen System Setup Screen . 171 . . . . . . . . . 174 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 Media . . . . . . .
Finding Information NOTE: Some features may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features may not be available in certain countries. NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer. What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • • • • Drivers and Utilities Media A diagnostic program for my computer Drivers for my computer Device documentation Notebook System Software (NSS) Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • • • • • • Dell™ Product Information Guide Warranty information Terms and Conditions (U.S. only) Safety instructions Regulatory information Ergonomics information End User License Agreement • How to set up my computer Setup Diagram • Service Tag and Express Service Code • Microsoft Windows License Label Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License These labels are located on your computer. • Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use support.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, online courses, and frequently asked questions • Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers • Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as the memory, hard drive, and operating system • Customer Care — Contact information, service call and order status, and warranty and repair information • Service and support — Service call status, support history, service contract, and o
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • Software upgrades and troubleshooting hints — Frequently asked questions, hot topics, and general health of your computing environment Dell Support Utility • How to use Windows Vista® • How to work with programs and files • How to personalize my desktop Windows Help and Support 1 Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Help and Support.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here • How to reinstall my operating system Operating System Media The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use one of the following methods: • Microsoft Windows System Restore — Microsoft Windows System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files.
Finding Information
About Your Computer Front View 1 3 2 17 16 4 15 5 6 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 About Your Computer 19
1 camera indicator (optional) 2 camera (optional) 3 display 4 power button 5 media control buttons (7) 6 keyboard 7 touch pad 8 8-in-1 media card reader 9 analog microphone 10 microphone connector 11 headphone connectors (2) 12 consumer IR 13 touch pad buttons (2) 14 device status lights 15 Dell MediaDirect™ button 16 keyboard status lights 17 digital array microphones (optional) CAMERA INDICATOR — Indicates that the camera is on.
KEYBOARD — For more information about the keyboard, see "Using the Keyboard and Touchpad" on page 41. TOUCH PAD — Provides the functionality of a mouse (see "Touch Pad" on page 43). 8- I N -1 M E D I A C A R D R E A D E R — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a media memory card. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot.
DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS The lights located on the palm rest towards the front of the computer indicate the following: Power light – Turns on when you turn on the computer, and blinks when the computer is in a power management mode. Hard drive activity light – 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. Battery status light – Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.
Bluetooth® status light – Turns on when a card with Bluetooth wireless technology is enabled. NOTE: The card with Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional feature. The light turns on only if you ordered the card with your computer. For more information, see the documentation that came with your card. To turn off only the Bluetooth wireless technology functionality, right-click the icon in the notification area, and then click Disable Bluetooth Radio.
9 Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled. A Turns on when the uppercase letter (caps lock) function is enabled. Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled. DIGITAL ARRAY MICROPHONES — Built-in microphone for conferencing and chat. NOTE: Digital array microphones are optional and may not be present in your computer unless you have ordered for the optional camera. Instead, your computer will have an integrated single analog microphone.
Left Side View 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 security cable slot 2 AC power adapter 3 USB connectors (2) 4 video connector (VGA) 5 network connector (RJ-45) 6 modem connector (RJ-11) 7 HDMI connector 8 IEEE 1394a connector 9 hard drive SECURITY CABLE SLOT — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer (see "Security Cable Lock" on page 93). AC A D A P T E R C O N N E C T O R — Attaches an AC adapter to the computer.
CAUTION: 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 the power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage. NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the connector, not the cable itself, and pull firmly, but gently to help prevent damage to the cable.
IEEE 1394 C O N N E C T O R — Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394a high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras. H A R D D R I V E — Stores software and data.
WIRELESS SWITCH — When enabled through Dell QuickSet, this switch can scan for a wireless local area network (WLAN) in your vicinity. You can also use it to rapidly turn off or on any wireless devices such as WLAN cards and internal cards with Bluetooth wireless technology (see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 91). 1 2 3 4 1 off Disables wireless devices 2 on Enables wireless devices 3 momentary Scans for WLAN networks (see "Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator" on page 91).
S - V I D E O TV- O U T C O N N E C T O R Connects your computer to a TV. Also connects digital audiocapable devices using the TV/digital audio adapter cable. USB CONNECTORS Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. NOTE: Your computer may have one or two USB connectors depending on what you ordered. Back View 1 2 1 battery 2 air vents CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents.
Bottom View 1 2 3 5 4 1 battery 2 battery release latch 3 processor/memory module/mini-card compartment 4 hard drive 5 optical drive BATTERY — When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet (see "Using a Battery" on page 45). BATTERY RELEASE LATCH — Releases the battery (see "Replacing the Battery" on page 49 for instructions).
Setting Up Your Computer Connecting to the Internet NOTE: Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and ISP offerings vary by country. To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: • DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line or cellular telephone service.
Setting Up Your Internet Connection To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. 3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. NOTE: If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 104.
Transferring Information to a New Computer You can transfer the following types of data from one computer to another: • E-mail messages • Toolbar settings • Window sizes • Internet bookmarks Use one of the following methods for transferring data: • Windows Easy Transfer wizard, an Easy Transfer Cable, and a USB port • Over a network • Removable media, such as a writable CD Windows Easy Transfer 1 Click Start →All Programs→Accessories→System Tools→Windows Easy Transfer.
Printer Cable Your printer connects to your computer with a USB cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer and computer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the computer’s shipping box. Connecting a USB Printer NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
3 Turn on the printer, and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel. 4 Click Start , and then click Network. 5 Click Add a printer to start the Add Printer Wizard. NOTE: To install the printer driver, see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 125 and the documentation that came with your printer. 6 Click Add a local printer or Add a network, wireless, or Bluetooth printer. 7 Follow the instructions in the Add Printer Wizard.
Line Conditioners NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions. Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level. Uninterruptible Power Supplies NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage. NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection.
Using the Display Adjusting Brightness When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the display brightness to the lowest comfortable level. • Press and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). • Press and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image may appear blurry or text may be hard to read if you change the resolution to one not supported by your computer and display. Before you change any of the display settings, make a note of the current settings so you can change back to the previous settings if needed.
Using the Keyboard and Touchpad Numeric Keypad numeric keypad The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, hold down and press the desired key. • To enable the keypad, press . The keypad is active. • To disable the keypad, press again.
Key Combinations System Functions Opens the Task Manager window. Display Functions Displays icons representing all currently available display options (display only, external monitor or projector only, both display and projector, etc). Highlight the desired icon to switch the display to that option. and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions Windows logo key and Minimizes all open windows. Windows logo key and Restores all minimized windows. This key combination functions as a toggle to restore minimized windows following the use of the Windows logo key and combination. Windows logo key and Starts Windows Explorer. Windows logo key and Opens the Run dialog box. Windows logo key and Opens the Search Results dialog box.
Touch Pad The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow you to move the cursor on the display. Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons as you would use a mouse. 1 2 1 42 touch pad 2 scroll zones • To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad. • To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch pad button.
Customizing the Touch Pad You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad or adjust the touch pad settings. 1 Click Start , and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Hardware and Sound. 3 Click Keyboard. 4 In the Mouse Properties window: • Click the Device Select tab to disable the touch pad. • Click the Touch Pad tab to adjust touch pad settings. 5 Click OK to save the settings and close the window.
Using the Keyboard and Touchpad
Using a Battery Battery Performance NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer. For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.
You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low. CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use batteries from other computers with your computer. CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste.
Microsoft® Windows® Battery Meter The battery meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the battery meter, double-click the icon in the notification area. Check the Battery Health You can check battery health by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification area, and then click Help.
Configuring Power Management Settings You can use Dell QuickSet or Windows Power Options to configure the power management settings on your computer. • For information on how to use the Dell QuickSet Power Management wizard, right-click the QuickSet icon in the notification area, click Help, and then select Power Management.
Charging the Battery NOTE: Charge time is longer with the computer turned on. You can leave the battery in the computer for as long as you like. The battery’s internal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging. When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the computer checks the battery charge and temperature. If necessary, the AC adapter then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge.
To remove the battery: 1 Ensure that the computer is turned off. 2 Turn the computer over. 3 Slide the battery release latch toward the side of the computer until it is engaged. 4 Slide the battery out of the bay. 1 1 2 battery 2 battery release latch To replace the battery, follow the removal procedure in reverse order. Storing a Battery Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges during prolonged storage.
Using Multimedia Playing Media NOTICE: Do not press down on the optical drive tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing media. NOTE: To prevent vibration and noise do not stick any additional labels or stickers on the media. 1 Press the eject button on the front of the drive. 2 Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray and snap the disc onto the spindle. 3 Push the tray back into the drive.
To format media for storing or copying data, see the media software that came with your computer. NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when copying media. A CD player includes the following basic buttons: Play. Move backward within the current track. Pause. Move forward within the current track. Stop. Go to the previous track. Eject. Go to the next track. A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: Stop. Restart the current chapter. Play. Fast forward. Pause. Fast reverse.
Playing Media Using Dell Travel Remote (Optional) The Dell Travel Remote is designed to control Dell Media Direct and Windows Vista Media Center. It can work only with specified computers. For more details, refer to the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. To play media using Dell Travel Remote: 1 Install a coin-cell battery into your remote control. 2 Launch Windows Vista® Media Center from Start →Programs. 3 Use the remote control buttons to play media.
1 Infrared Transmitter 2 Arrow Up 3 OK/Enter/Select 4 Arrow Right 5 Arrow Down 6 Play/Pause 7 Forward 8 Skip Forward 9 Stop 10 Skip Back 11 Reverse 12 Back 13 Arrow Left 14 Mute 15 Volume Down 16 Page Down 17 Volume Up 18 Page Up Copying CD, DVD, and Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) Media NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws while copying media. NOTE: The types of optical drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
How to Copy a CD, DVD or BD NOTE: Most commercial DVDs and BDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Roxio Creator Plus. NOTE: BD media can only be copied to other BD media. NOTE: Copying a BD-R to BD-RE does not produce an exact copy. 1 Click Start →All Programs →Roxio Creator→Projects →Copy. 2 Under the Copy tab, click Copy Disc.
DVD-Writable and Combo Drives Media Type Read Write Rewritable CD-R Yes Yes No CD-RW Yes Yes Yes DVD+R Yes Yes No DVD-R Yes Yes No DVD+RW Yes Yes Yes DVD-RW Yes Yes Yes DVD+R DL Yes Yes No DVD-R DL Yes Yes No Media Type Read Write Rewritable CD-R Yes Yes No CD-RW Yes Yes Yes DVD+R Yes Yes No DVD-R Yes Yes No DVD+RW Yes Yes Yes DVD-RW Yes Yes Yes DVD+R DL Yes Yes No DVD-R DL Yes Yes No BD-R Yes Yes No BD-RE Yes Yes Yes Blu-ray Dr
• Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos. • Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed. • Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again.
Adjusting the Picture If an error message notifies you that the current resolution and color depth are using too much memory and preventing media playback, adjust the display properties: 1 Click Start →Control Panel→Appearance and Personalization. 2 Under Personalization, click Adjust screen resolution. 3 On Display Settings, click and drag the bar to reduce the resolution setting. 4 In the drop-down menu under Color quality, click Medium (16 bit). 5 Click OK.
Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio device may not be included with your computer. Cables and TV/digital audio adapter cables are available for purchase from Dell.
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter 3 S/PDIF digital audio connector 4 Pr (red) component video-output connector 5 Pb (blue) component video-output connector 6 Y (green) component video-output connector If you want to connect your computer to a TV or audio device, it is recommended that you connect video and audio cables to your computer in one of the following combinations: • S-video and standard audio • Composite video and standard audio • Component-out vide
S-Video and Standard Audio 1 2 1 audio connector 2 S-video TV-out connector 1 2 1 standard S-video cable 2 standard audio cable 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. NOTE: If your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio, you can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer (without the TV/digital audio adapter cable).
4 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on your computer. 5 Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device. 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" on page 74 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
1 2 3 1 composite video adapter 3 S/PDIF digital audio cable 2 S-video cable 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or the audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3 Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the composite video adapter. 2 1 1 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable 4 Plug the other end of the S-video cable into the S-video input connector on the TV.
1 1 2 composite video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable 6 Plug the other end of the S/PDIF digital audio cable into the audio input connector on your TV or audio device. 7 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 74 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
1 2 3 1 composite video adapter 3 standard audio cable 2 composite video cable 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3 Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite videooutput connector on the composite video adapter.
5 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on the computer. 6 Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable into the audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device. 7 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 74 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
1 2 3 1 composite video adapter 3 standard audio cable 2 composite video cable 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer. 3 Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the composite video adapter.
1 1 2 composite video adapter 2 S/PDIF digital audio cable 6 Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device. 7 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 74 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV.
1 2 3 1 component video adapter 3 standard audio cable 2 component video cable 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3 Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the corresponding adapter ports.
1 1 component video adapter 2 2 component video cable 4 Plug all three connectors from the other end of the component video cable into the component video-input connectors on the TV. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the colors of the TV input connectors. 5 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable into the headphone connector on the computer.
Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 1 2 S-video TV-out connector 2 component video adapter 1 2 3 1 component video adapter 3 standard audio cable 2 component video cable Using Multimedia 71
1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer. 3 Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the corresponding adapter ports.
6 Plug the other end of the digital audio cable into the S/PDIF input connector on your TV or other audio device. 7 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 8 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 74 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio 1 Double-click the speaker icon in the Windows notification area. 2 Click the Options menu and then click Advanced Controls.
3 Plug the other end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI input connector on your TV. 4 Turn on the TV and any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 5 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 74 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. Enabling the Display Settings for a TV NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the computer before you enable the display settings.
Using the Optional Camera If you ordered a camera when you bought your computer, the camera is integrated in the computer display. The camera and its integrated digital microphones allow you to take photos and videos and to communicate visually and verbally with other computer users. The blue camera light appears when the camera is turned on. For more information about camera features, see "Specifications" on page 161.
Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings If you do not want the camera to use automatic settings, you can manually adjust the camera settings. 1 Right-click the icon in the notification area and click Launch Webcam Console. 2 In the Webcam Console window: • Click the Camera tab to adjust video settings, such as contrast and brightness. • Click the Effects tab to adjust audio settings, such as the volume level.
Using Cards ExpressCards ExpressCards provide additional memory, wired and wireless communications, multimedia and security features. For example, you can add an ExpressCard to make wireless wide area network (WWAN) connectivity available on your computer. ExpressCards support two form factors: • ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide) • ExpressCard/54 (54 mm wide in an L-shape with a 34 mm connector) The 34 mm card fits into both the 34 mm and 54 mm card slots. The 54 mm card only fits into a 54 mm card slot.
ExpressCard Blanks Your computer shipped with a plastic blank installed in the ExpressCard slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no ExpressCard is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer. Remove the blank before installing an ExpressCard. To remove the blank, see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 79. Installing an ExpressCard You can install an ExpressCard while the computer is running.
Removing an ExpressCard or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Press the card or blank to remove it from its slot. Save a blank to use when no ExpressCard is installed in a slot. Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Memory Card Reader The memory card reader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card.
Installing a Memory Card You can install a media memory card in the computer while the computer is running. The computer automatically detects the card. Memory cards are generally marked with a symbol (such as a triangle or an arrow) or a label to indicate which end to insert into the slot. The cards are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. If card orientation is not clear, see the documentation that came with the card.
Removing a Memory Card or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: Click the icon in the notification area to select a card and stop it from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card, you could lose data. Press the card into the slot to release it from the card reader. When it is partially ejected, remove the card.
Using Cards
Setting Up and Using Networks Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer, or a network. For example, with a network set up in a home or small office you can print to a shared printer, access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or access the Internet. You can set up a local area network (LAN) using a network or broadband modem cable or set up a wireless LAN (WLAN).
Setting Up a Network 1 Click Start , and then click Connect To. 2 Click Set up a connection or network. 3 Select an option under Choose a connection option. 4 Click Next, and then follow the instructions in the wizard. Wireless Local Area Network A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each computer.
Device Manager 1 Click Start , and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Classic View on the menu on the left side of the Control Panel. 3 Double-click Device Manager. NOTE: The User Account Control window may open. 4 Click Continue on the User Account Control window if it opens. 5 Click the + next to Network adapters to list the utility that manages your wireless network card. If a network adapter is not listed, you may not have a wireless network card.
6 Disconnect the network cable from the computer and the modem. 7 Disconnect the AC adapter cable from your wireless router to ensure that there is no power connected to the router. NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before continuing with the network setup. 8 Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered broadband modem.
Connecting to a WLAN NOTE: Before you connect to a WLAN, ensure that you have followed the instructions in "Wireless Local Area Network" on page 84. NOTE: The following networking instructions do not apply to internal cards with Bluetooth® wireless technology or cellular products. This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary.
Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet The wireless activity indicator provides you with an easy way to monitor the status of your computer’s wireless devices. To turn the wireless activity indicator on or off, click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar and select Hotkey Popups. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is not checked, the indicator is on. If Wireless Activity Indicator Off is checked, the indicator is off.
To set up a Mobile Broadband network connection, you need: • A Mobile Broadband ExpressCard or Mini Card (depending on your computer’s configuration) NOTE: For instructions on using ExpressCards, see "Using Cards" on page 77.
Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network NOTE: These instructions only apply to Mobile Broadband ExpressCards or MiniCards. They do not apply to internal cards with wireless technology. NOTE: Before you connect to the Internet, you must activate Mobile Broadband service through your cellular service provider.
If the switch is in the on position, move the switch to the off position to disable the switch and the Mobile Broadband card. If the switch is in the off position, move the switch to the on position to enable the switch and the Dell Mobile Broadband card. For information about the wireless switch positions, see "wireless switch" on page 27. To monitor the status of your wireless device, see "Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell QuickSet" on page 88.
Setting Up and Using Networks
Securing Your Computer Security Cable Lock NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock. A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device. NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot on your computer. Passwords Passwords prevent unauthorized access to your computer.
• Do not share your password with other people. • Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password. NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However, they are not foolproof. If you require more security, obtain and use additional forms of protection such as data encryption programs. Use the User Accounts option in the Control Panel in the Microsoft® Windows® operating system to create user accounts or to change passwords.
Securing Your Computer 95
Securing Your Computer
Troubleshooting Dell Technical Update Service The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications. To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive. NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 160). NOTE: If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions. 1 Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media 1 Insert your Drivers and Utilities media. 2 Shut down and restart the computer. 3 When the DELL logo appears, press immediately. NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down for extended periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and release in even intervals until the boot device menu appears.
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want. NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on your computer. Option Function Test Memory Run the stand-alone memory test Test System Run System Diagnostics Exit Exit Diagnostics After you have selected the Test System option from the main menu, the following menu appears.
The following tabs provide additional information for tests run from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option: Tab Function Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered. Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the problem description. Help Describes the test and any requirements for running the test. Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.
The top of the Dell Support Center home page displays your system’s model number along with its service tag, express service code and warranty expiration. The application provides additional details about your computer, such as available memory, disk space, installed hardware, network addresses and modem, installed security software, and so on. In addition, using your service tag, we can link you to the most relevant Dell.
DellConnect DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and support associate to access your computer through an Internet connection, diagnose your problem and repair it. The associate will work under your supervision. You can direct the associate and solve your problem. To use this service, you must have an Internet connection and your computer must still be under warranty. DellConnect is also available for a fee through "Dell On Call.
The monthly version is available as an annual subscription and is a feature of Dell Support 3, a complimentary application that provides real-time health scans and information on how to maintain your PC. Both versions of PC Tune-Up are available to customers in the U.S. and Canada. For the latest updates and to learn how to keep your computer running at peak performance, search for the keyword PC TuneUp on support.dell.com.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E C D , D V D , O R BD M E D I A I S S N A P P E D O N T O T H E S P I N D L E CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS C H E C K F O R H A R D W A R E I N C O M P A T I B I L I T I E S — See "Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems in the Windows Vista® Operating System" on page 127. R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 95.
Hard drive problems A L L O W T H E C O M P U T E R T O C O O L B E F O R E T U R N I N G I T O N — A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on. RUN CHECK DISK — 1 Click Start →Computer. 2 Right-click Local Disk (C:). 3 Click Properties→Tools→Check Now. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear.
• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone, then listen for a dial tone. • If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
Error Messages Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 159 as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared. A U X I L I A R Y D E V I C E F A I L U R E — The touch pad or external mouse may be faulty. For an external mouse, check the cable connection.
E X T E N D E D M E M O R Y S I Z E H A S C H A N G E D — 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 (see "Contacting Dell" on page 160). T H E F I L E B E I N G C O P I E D I S T O O L A R G E F O R T H E D E S T I N A T I O N D R I V E — The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk, or the disk is full.
I N S E R T B O O T A B L E M E D I A — The operating system is trying to boot to nonbootable media, such as a floppy disk or CD. Insert bootable media. I N V A L I D C O N F I G U R A T I O N I N F O R M A T I O N - P L E A S E R U N S YS T E M S E T U P P R O G R A M — The system configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed.
— A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 142). VALUE MEMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING V A L U E — A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace them (see "Memory" on page 142). MEMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE — A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
S E C T O R N O T F O U N D — The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard drive. You may have a defective sector or corrupted FAT on the hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility to check the file structure on the hard drive. See Windows Help and Support for instructions (click Start →Help and Support). If a large number of sectors are defective, back up the data (if possible), and then reformat the hard drive.
ExpressCard Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. C H E C K T H E E X P R E S S C A R D — Ensure that the ExpressCard is properly inserted into the connector. C H E C K T H A T T H E C A R D I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S — Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the Windows taskbar. Some cards do not support this feature.
Keyboard Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 159 as you perform the various checks. NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
4 From the Windows desktop, click Start Accessories→Notepad. →All Programs→ 5 Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display. If the characters appear now, but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 160). R U N T H E K E Y B O A R D D I A G N O S T I C S T E S T S — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 95).
A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly END THE PROGRAM — 1 Press simultaneously. 2 Click the Applications tab and select the program that is no longer responding. 3 Click End Task. NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen. C H E C K T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
C A N N O T P L A Y S O M E M E D I A F I L E S — Because Dell MediaDirect provides access to media files outside the Windows operating system environment, access to licensed content is restricted. Licensed content is digital content that has Digital Rights Management (DRM) applied to it. The Dell MediaDirect environment cannot verify the DRM restrictions, so the licensed files cannot be played. Licensed music and video files have a lock icon next to them.
Memory Problems Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 159 as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE — • Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem. • See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN C H E C K Y O U R N E T W O R K S E T T I N G S — Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning. Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [WWAN]) NOTE: The Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user’s guide and the Mobile Broadband ExpressCard user’s guide are available through Windows Help and Support (click Start →Help and Support).
Power Problems Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 159 as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. C H E C K T H E P O W E R L I G H T — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in Sleep state—press the power button to exit Sleep state. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer.
C O N N E C T T H E C O M P U T E R D I R E C T L Y T O A N E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and extension cables to verify that the computer turns on. E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances. A D J U S T T H E P O W E R P R O P E R T I E S — See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 48.
Scanner Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s manufacturer. C H E C K T H E S C A N N E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N — See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information. U N L O C K T H E S C A N N E R — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked.
No sound from external speakers E N S U R E T H A T T H E S U B W O O F E R A N D T H E S P E A K E R S A R E T U R N E D O N — See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion. A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.
C H E C K T H E M O U S E C A B L E — Shut down the computer, disconnect the mouse cable and check it for damage, then firmly reconnect the cable. If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse directly to the computer. TO V E R I F Y T H A T T H E P R O B L E M I S W I T H T H E M O U S E , C H E C K T H E T O U C H P A D — 1 Shut down the computer. 2 Disconnect the mouse. 3 Turn on the computer.
TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. C H E C K T H E A C A D A P T E R — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on. C O N N E C T T H E C O M P U T E R D I R E C T L Y T O A N E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and extension cables to verify that the computer turns on.
If only part of the display is readable CONNECT AN EXTERNAL MONITOR — 1 Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer. 2 Turn on the computer and the monitor, and then adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls. If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 160). Drivers What Is a Driver? A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard.
Identifying Drivers If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver. 1 Click Start , and then right-click Computer. 2 Click Properties, and then click Device Manager. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue.
Using the Drivers and Utilities Media If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 128) does not resolve the problem, reinstall the driver from your Drivers and Utilities media. 1 With the Windows desktop displayed, insert your Drivers and Utilities media. If this is your first time to use your Drivers and Utilities media, continue to step 2. If not, proceed to step 5.
Manually Reinstalling Drivers NOTE: If your computer has a Consumer IR port and you are reinstalling a Consumer IR driver, you must first enable the Consumer IR port in the system setup program (see "Using the System Setup Program" on page 171) before continuing with the driver installation (see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 125). For information about components installed on your computer, see "Front View" on page 19.
To start the Hardware Troubleshooter: 1 Click Start →Help and Support. 2 In the Find an answer section, click Troubleshooting. OR Type hardware troubleshooter in the search field, then press . 3 In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and follow the troubleshooting steps. NOTE: If you do not find the answer in the items categorized in Troubleshooting, you can get Online Help by typing in your question in the Search Help field at the top of the window.
To access the Windows Help and Support Center, click Start Support. →Help and 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 apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view. Creating a Restore Point You can automatically and manually create a restore point from the Windows Vista Back Up and Restore Center.
5 Select the Show restore points older than 5 days checkbox to view the complete list of restore points. 6 Select a restore point. Try to restore from the most recent restore point. If this fails to correct the problem, try the next oldest restore point until the issue is resolved. Any software installed after the selected restore point will need to be reinstalled. 7 Click Next→Finish. 8 When prompted, click Yes. 9 After System Restore finishes collecting data, the computer restarts.
1 Restart the computer. To do this, click Start → →Restart. 2 As the computer restarts, press until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears on the screen. NOTE: You must press the key before the Windows logo appears on the screen. If you press after the Windows logo appears on the screen, the Advanced Boot Options menu will not appear on the screen. If you do not see the Advanced Boot Options menu, restart the computer, and then repeat this step until you see the menu on the screen.
132 Troubleshooting
Adding and Replacing Parts Before You Begin This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist: • You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 133 and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 134. • You have read the safety information in your Dell Product Information Guide.
Before Working Inside Your Computer Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help ensure your own personal safety. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket.
6 Slide the battery release latch toward the side of the computer until it is engaged. 7 Slide the battery out of the battery bay. 1 1 battery release latch 2 2 battery 8 Turn the computer top-side up, open the display, and press the power button to ground the system board. 9 Remove any installed cards from the ExpressCard slot (see "Removing an ExpressCard or Blank" on page 79) and the 8-in-1 memory card reader (see "Removing a Memory Card or Blank" on page 81).
NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than Dell. NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to install an operating system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 128 and "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 125). Removing the Hard Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 133.
Replacing the Hard Drive 1 Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive. NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage the connector. 2 Slide the hard drive into the bay until it is fully seated. 3 Replace and tighten the two screws. 4 Install the operating system for your computer, as needed (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 128).
Optical Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Removing the Optical Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 133. 2 Turn the computer over. 3 Remove the locking screw from the optical drive. 4 Using a plastic scribe, push the notch to release the optical drive from the bay. 5 Slide the optical drive out of the bay.
Hinge Cover CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer). NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer.
1 2 1 hinge cover 2 scribe Replacing the Hinge Cover 1 Replace the media control buttons connector to the systemboard. 2 Insert the left edge of the hinge cover. 3 Press from left to right until the cover snaps into place. 4 Replace the two screws that secure the hinge cover from the battery bay. Keyboard For more information about the keyboard, see "Using the Keyboard and Touchpad" on page 39.
Removing the Keyboard 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 133. 2 Remove the hinge cover (see "Hinge Cover" on page 139). 3 Remove the two screws at the top of the keyboard. NOTICE: The key caps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and timeconsuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard. 4 Lift the keyboard and hold it up and slightly forward to access to the keyboard connector.
Replacing the Keyboard 1 Slide the keyboard cable into the keyboard connector. 2 Rotate the keyboard connector latch to secure the cable. 3 Hook the tabs along the front edge of the keyboard into the palmrest. 4 Press on the right edge near the top to snap the keyboard into place. 5 Replace the two screws on the top of the keyboard. Memory CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
1 2 1 cover 2 captive screws (5) NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory module securing clips. NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer). 3 Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up.
1 1 securing clips (2) 2 2 memory module Replacing Memory Module NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer). 1 Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot. 2 Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down until it clicks into place.
1 2 1 tab 2 notch NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer. 3 Replace the memory module cover. 4 Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet. 5 Turn on the computer. As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration information.
Subscriber Identity Module (Optional) Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM) identify users uniquely through an International Mobile Subscriber Identity. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: Only GSM (HSDPA) type cards need a SIM. EVDO cards do not use a SIM. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 133.
Wireless Mini-Cards CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer. If you ordered a wireless Mini-Card with your computer, the card is already installed.
4 Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini-card. NOTE: The Mini-card may have two or three connectors, depending on the type of card you ordered. 2 1 1 antenna cable connectors 2 securing screw 5 Release the Mini-card by removing the securing screw. 6 Lift the card out of its system board connector.
Replacing Mini-Card NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system board, and realign the card. NOTICE: To avoid damage to the Mini-card, never place cables under the card. 1 Insert the card connector into the system board connector at a 45-degree angle. 2 Press the other end of the card down into the slot on the system board until the card clicks into place. 3 Replace the securing screw.
4 Remove the M2 x 3-mm securing screw. 5 Remove the FCM. 1 2 1 FCM Card 2 M2 x 3-mm securing screw Replacing the FCM NOTICE: Install the FCM in the WWAN slot. Do not install an FCM in the WLAN card slot. Doing so may cause damage to your computer. 1 Insert the FCM connector at a 45-degree angle into the system board connector labeled "FCM". 2 Press the other end of the FCM down into the slot on the system board until the card clicks into place. 3 Replace the M2 x 3-mm securing screw.
Broadcom® Media PC Card The Broadcom Media PC card is used in conjunction with blu-ray optical drives to render high definition content. The Broadcom Media PC card can be installed either in the UWB or WWAN Mini-Card slots. You can remove and replace the Media PC card the same way you would remove or replace FCM. For more information, see "Flash Cache Module" on page 149.
2 1 1 securing screw 2 card Replacing the Card 1 Replace the screw securing the card and insert the card at an angle to slide it in the card compartment. 2 Connect the cable to the card.
Traveling With Your Computer Identifying Your Computer • Attach a name tag or business card to the 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 phone number in this file.
• Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as extreme temperatures and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids. • Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead storage compartment. Travel Tips NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive to prevent loss of data. NOTICE: Do not check the computer as baggage.
Getting Help Obtaining Assistance CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer cover, first disconnect the computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets. If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem: 1 See "Troubleshooting" on page 95 for information and procedures that pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing. 2 See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 95 for procedures on how to run Dell Diagnostics.
Technical Support and Customer Service Dell's support service is available to answer your questions about Dell™ hardware. Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers. To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You Call" on page 158, and then see the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com.
• Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses apmarketing@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only) sales_canada@dell.com (Canada only) • Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP) ftp.dell.com Log in as user: anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password. AutoTech Service Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and desktop computers.
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: 1 Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 160. 2 Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.
Diagnostics Checklist Name: Date: Address: Phone number: Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer): Express Service Code: Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician): Operating system and version: Devices: Expansion cards: Are you connected to a network? Yes No Network, version, and network adapter: Programs and versions: See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system’s start-up files.
Contacting Dell For customers in the United States, call 800-WWW-DELL (800-999-3355). NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, Contacting Dell techsheet, or Dell product catalog. Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your area.
Specifications NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, click Start , click Help and Support, and then select the option to view information about your computer.
System Information System chipset AMD M690T Chipset with ATI™ Radeon® X1270 Graphics Mobile Intel Express GM 965 Data bus width 64 bits DRAM bus width dual-channel (2) 64-bit buses Processor address bus width 36 bits (Intel) and 32 bits (AMD) Flash EPROM 2 MB PCI bus 32 bits ExpressCard NOTE: The ExpressCard slot is designed only for ExpressCards. It does NOT support PC Cards.
8-in-1 Memory Card Reader 8-in-1 memory card controller Ricoh R5C833 8-in-1 memory card connector 8-in-1 combo card connector Cards supported • • • • • • • • Secure Digital (SD) SDIO MultiMediaCard (MMC) Memory Stick Memory Stick PRO xD-Picture Card Hi Speed-SD Hi Density-SD Memory Memory module connector two user-accessible SODIMM connectors Memory module capacities 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB Memory type 667 MHz SODIMM DDR2 Minimum memory 512 MB Maximum memory 4 GB NOTE: In order to take advantage
Ports and Connectors (continued) Network adapter RJ-45 port S-video TV-out 7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-video to composite video adapter cable) USB four 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors Video 15-hole connector HDMI one 29 pin Type B HDMI connector. Communications Modem: Type v.
Audio Audio type two-channel high-definition audio codec Audio controller Sigmatel STAC9228 Codec Stereo conversion 24-bit (analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog) Interfaces: Internal Intel High Definition Audio External microphone-in connector, stereo headphones/speakers connector Speaker two 4-ohm speakers Internal speaker amplifier 1 Watt per channel into 4 ohms Volume controls program menus, media control buttons Display Type (active-matrix TFT) 15.4-inch WXGA 15.
Display (continued) Viewing angles: Horizontal ±40° (WXGA) ±40° (WXGA with TrueLife) ±55° (WXGA+ with TrueLife) ±60° (WSXGA+ with TrueLife) Vertical +15°/–30° (WXGA) +15°/–30° (WXGA with TrueLife) ±45° (WXGA+ with TrueLife) +40°/–50° (WSXGA+ with TrueLife) Pixel pitch: WXGA 0.258 mm WXGA with TrueLife 0.258 mm WXGA+ with TrueLife 0.2304 mm WSXGA+with TrueLife 0.
Touch Pad X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) 240 cpi Size: Width 73.7-mm (2.9-in) sensor-active area Height 34.0-mm (1.3-in) rectangle Battery Type 9-cell "smart" lithium ion 6-cell "smart" lithium ion 4-cell "smart" lithium ion Dimensions: Depth 57.2 mm (2.25 in) (4/6 cell) 76.7 mm (3.01 in) (9 cell) Height 20 mm (0.78 in) Width 205.1 mm (8.07 in) (4/6 cell) 221 mm (8.7 in) (9 cell) Weight 0.35 kg (0.77 lb) (6 cell) 0.51 kg (1.12 lb) (9 cell) Voltage 11.1 VDC (6/9 cell) 14.
Battery (continued) Temperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Coin-cell battery CR-2032 AC Adapter Input voltage 100–240 VAC Input current (maximum) 1.5 A Input frequency 50–60 Hz Output current 3.34 A (continuous) 4.34 A (peak for 4-second pulse) Output power 65 W Rated output voltage 19.5 VDC +/– 5% Dimensions: Height 28.2 mm (1.11 in) Width 57.9 mm (2.28 in) Depth 137.2 mm (5.4 in) Weight (with cables) 0.4 kg (0.
Environmental Temperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Relative humidity (maximum): Operating 10% to 90% (noncondensing) Storage 5% to 90% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration (using a random vibration spectrum that simulates user environment): Operating 0.66 GRMS Maximum shock (Measured with hard drive in operating but not accessing data status and a 3-ms halfsine pulse for operating.
170 Specifications
Appendix Using the System Setup Program NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in system setup, thus overriding options that you set through system setup. An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through system setup. For more information on configuring features for your operating system, see Windows Help and Support (click Start , and then click Help and Support).
Viewing the System Setup Screen 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer. 2 When the DELL logo appears, press immediately. If you wait too long and the Microsoft Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again. System Setup Screen NOTE: For information about a specific item on a system setup screen, highlight the item and see the Help area on the screen. On each screen, the system setup options are listed at the left.
The Boot Order page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your computer, including but not limited to the following: • Diskette Drive • Internal HDD • USB Storage Device • CD/DVD/CD-RW drive • Modular bay HDD NOTE: Only devices that are preceded by a number are bootable. During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device for the operating system start-up files.
3 Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press 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. 4 When the boot device list appears, highlight the device from which you want to boot and press . The computer boots to the selected device. The next time you reboot the computer, the previous boot order is restored.
• To clean your monitor screen, lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth with water. You can also use a special screen-cleaning tissue or solution suitable for the monitor’s antistatic coating. • Wipe the keyboard, computer, and monitor plastics with a soft cleaning cloth moistened with a solution of three parts water and one part dishwashing detergent. Do not soak the cloth or let water drip inside your computer or keyboard.
1 Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole. NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc. 2 With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disc. For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap.
Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Dell-installed software includes the operating system and some of the software programs that are installed on the computer during the manufacturing process (Microsoft Office, Norton Antivirus, etc). Dell-installed peripherals include any internal expansion cards, or Dellbranded module bay or ExpressCard accessories.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference with radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: • Reorient the receiving antenna.
Glossary Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer. A AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet.
BD — See Blu-ray Disc. BIOS — basic input/output system — A program (or utility) that serves as an interface between the computer hardware and the operating system. Unless you understand what effect these settings have on the computer, do not change them. Also referred to as system setup. bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your computer.
cache — A special high-speed storage mechanism which can be either a reserved section of main memory or an independent high-speed storage device. The cache enhances the efficiency of many processor operations. L1 cache — Primary cache stored inside the processor. L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external to the processor or incorporated into the processor architecture. carnet — An international customs document that facilitates temporary imports into foreign countries.
D DDR SDRAM — double-data-rate SDRAM — A type of SDRAM that doubles the data burst cycle, improving system performance. DDR2 SDRAM — double-data-rate 2 SDRAM — A type of DDR SDRAM that uses a 4-bit prefetch and other architectural changes to boost memory speed to over 400 MHz. device — Hardware such as a disk drive, printer, or keyboard that is installed in or connected to your computer. device driver — See driver.
DVD-R — DVD recordable — A recordable version of a DVD. Data can be recorded only once onto a DVD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over. DVD+RW — DVD rewritable — A rewritable version of a DVD. Data can be written to a DVD+RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). (DVD+RW technology is different from DVD-RW technology.) DVD+RW drive — drive that can read DVDs and most CD media and write to DVD+RW (rewritable DVDs) discs.
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. extended display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as an extension of your display. Also referred to as dual display mode. extended PC Card — A PC Card that extends beyond the edge of the PC Card slot when installed.
GHz — gigahertz — A measurement of frequency that equals one thousand million Hz, or one thousand MHz. The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in GHz. graphics mode — A video mode that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors. Graphics modes can display an unlimited variety of shapes and fonts. GUI — graphical user interface — Software that interacts with the user by means of menus, windows, and icons.
integrated — Usually refers to components that are physically located on the computer’s system board. Also referred to as built-in. I/O — input/output — An operation or device that enters and extracts data from your computer. Keyboards and printers are I/O devices. I/O address — An address in RAM that is associated with a specific device (such as a serial connector, parallel connector, or expansion slot) and allows the processor to communicate with that device.
LED — light-emitting diode — An electronic component that emits light to indicate the status of the computer. local bus — A data bus that provides a fast throughput for devices to the processor. LPT — line print terminal — The designation for a parallel connection to a printer or other parallel device. M Mb — megabit — A measurement of memory chip capacity that equals 1024 Kb. Mbps — megabits per second — One million bits per second.
Mobile Broadband network — (also known as a WWAN) is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other through wireless cellular technology and provides Internet access in the same varied locations from which cellular telephone service is available. Your computer can maintain the Mobile Broadband network connection regardless of its physical location, as long as the computer remains in the service area of your cellular service provider.
P parallel connector — An I/O port often used to connect a parallel printer to your computer. Also referred to as an LPT port. partition — A physical storage area on a hard drive that is assigned to one or more logical storage areas known as logical drives. Each partition can contain multiple logical drives. PC Card — A removable I/O card adhering to the PCMCIA standard. Modems and network adapters are common types of PC Cards.
R RAID — redundant array of independent disks — A method of providing data redundancy. Some common implementations of RAID include RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, and RAID 50. RAM — random-access memory — The primary temporary storage area for program instructions and data. Any information stored in RAM is lost when you shut down your computer. readme file — A text file included with a software package or hardware product.
S SAS — serial attached SCSI — A faster, serial version of the SCSI interface (as opposed to the original SCSI parallel architecture). SATA — serial ATA — A faster, serial version of the ATA (IDE) interface. ScanDisk — A Microsoft utility that checks files, folders, and the hard disk’s surface for errors. ScanDisk often runs when you restart the computer after it has stopped responding.
Strike Zone™ — Reinforced area of the platform base that protects the hard drive by acting as a dampening device when a computer experiences resonating shock or is dropped (whether the computer is on or off). surge protectors — Prevent voltage spikes, such as those that may occur during an electrical storm, from entering the computer through the electrical outlet.
TPM — trusted platform module — A hardware-based security feature that when combined with security software enhances network and computer security by enabling features such as file and e-mail protection. travel module — A plastic device designed to fit inside the module bay of a portable computer to reduce the weight of the computer.
video memory — Memory that consists of memory chips dedicated to video functions. Video memory is usually faster than system memory. The amount of video memory installed primarily influences the number of colors that a program can display. video mode — A mode that describes how text and graphics are displayed on a monitor. Graphics-based software, such as Windows operating systems, displays in video modes that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors.
WPAN — wireless personal area network. A computer network used for communication among computer devices (including telephones and personal digital assistants) close to one person. WWAN — wireless wide area network. A wireless high-speed data network using cellular technology and covering a much larger geographic area than WLAN. WXGA — wide-aspect extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 800.
196 Glossary
Index Numerics 8-in-1 memory card reader, 79 A audio device connecting, 59 enabling, 73 brightness adjusting, 37 C camera, 20 carnet, 154 audio.
copying DVDs helpful tips, 56 how to, 55 D Dell Diagnostics about, 95 starting from the Drivers and Utilities media, 97 starting from your hard drive, 96 Dell MediaDirect about, 23 problems, 114 Dell support site, 15 DellConnect, 156 Device Driver Rollback, 125 device latch release description, 29 device status lights description, 22 diagnostics Dell, 95 digital array microphones, 23 display adjusting brightness, 37 description, 20 resolution, 38 switching the video image, 37 documentation End User Licens
ExpressCard slot description, 27 ExpressCards, 77 blanks, 78-79 installing, 78 removing, 79 F FCM.
memory card blanks, 79 memory card reader, 79 memory cards blanks, 81 removing, 81 messages error, 106 microphone directional, 75 Mini Card installing, 147 WLAN, 147 WPAN, 147 WWAN, 147 Mobile Broadband network connections, 88 See also wireless switch Mobile Broadband (WWAN) problems, 116 modem connector description, 29 monitor.
problems (continued) error messages, 106 hard drive, 104 IEEE 1394 connector, 111 keyboard, 112 lockups, 113 network, 116 power, 118 power light conditions, 118 printer, 119 program crashes repeatedly, 114 program stops responding, 114 programs and Windows compatibility, 114 restore computer to previous operating state, 128-129 restore operating system to previous state, 128 scanner, 120 slow computer performance, 105, 115 software, 113-115 sound and speakers, 120 speakers, 120 spyware, 105, 115 Product Inf
specifications, 161 spyware, 105, 115 stolen computer, 94 Subscriber Identity Module, 146 support website, 15 S-video TV-out connector description, 28 System Restore, 128-129 system setup program commonly used options, 172 screens, 172 viewing, 172 traveling with the computer by air, 154 identification tag, 153 packing, 153 tips, 154 troubleshooting Dell Diagnostics, 95 Hardware Troubleshooter, 127 restore computer to previous operating state, 128-129 TV connecting, 59 U T taskbar Dell Mobile Broadband Ca
W warranty information, 14 Windows Easy Transfer wizard, 33 Windows Vista Device Driver Rollback, 125 Program Compatibility wizard, 114 reinstalling, 128-130 System Restore, 128-129 Windows Easy Transfer wizard, 33 wizards Program Compatibility wizard, 114 Windows Easy Transfer, 33 WLAN installing Mini Card, 147 WWAN See also Mobile Broadband Index 203
204 Index
