Dell Latitude D531 User's Guide

Dell Latitude D531 Manual

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  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 1
    Dell™ Latitude™ D531 User's Guide Model PP04X www.dell.com | support.dell.com
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 2
    . Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Latitude, ExpressCharge, Dell TravelLite, Undock & Go, Dell MediaDirect, Dell Media Experience, and Dell TrueLife are trademarks of Dell Inc.; AMD, AMD Sempron, AMD Turion, ATI Radeon, Catalyst, the AMD Arrow logo and combinations thereof are
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 3
    Information to a New Computer Files and Settings Transfer Wizard 25 4 Using a Battery Battery Performance 29 Checking the Battery Charge 30 Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter 30 Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter 30 Charge Gauge 30 Low-Battery Warning 31 Conserving Battery Power 31 Power Management
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    41 Using ATI Catalyst® Control Center 42 Launching Catalyst Control Center 43 Using an External Monitor or Projector 43 Using an External Monitor 44 Extending Your Computer Display 44 Changing Your Primary Display 45 Saving Battery Power 45 7 Using Multimedia Playing CDs or DVDs 49 Copying
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    Blank CDs and DVDs 51 Helpful Tips 52 Adjusting the Volume 53 Adjusting the Picture 53 If the Computer Is Turned Off or in Hibernate Mode 54 Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device 54 S-Video and Standard Audio 55 Setting Up the Cyberlink (CL) Headphones 56 Enabling the Display
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    Is Lost or Stolen 75 11 Cleaning Your Computer Computer, Keyboard, and Display 77 Touch Pad 77 Mouse 77 Cleaning a Non-Optical Mouse 77 Cleaning an Optical Mouse 78 Floppy Drive 78 CDs and DVDs 78 12 Troubleshooting Dell Technical Update Service 79 Dell Diagnostics 79 When to Use the
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    Drive Problems 83 CD and DVD drive problems 84 Hard drive problems 84 E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems 85 Error Messages 86 IEEE 1394 Device Problems 89 Keyboard Problems 89 External keyboard problems 90 Unexpected characters 90 Lockups and Software Problems 90 The computer does not
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    Microsoft Windows System Restore 106 Using the Operating System Media 107 15 Adding and Replacing Parts Before You Begin 111 Recommended Tools 111 Turning Off Your Computer 111 Before Working Inside Your Computer 112 Hard Drive 113 Returning a Hard Drive to Dell 115 Hinge Cover 115 Memory
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    Identifying Your Computer 133 Packing the Computer 133 Travel Tips 134 Traveling by Air 134 18 Getting Help Obtaining Assistance 135 Technical Support and Customer Service 135 DellConnect 136 Online Services 136 AutoTech Service 137 Automated Order-Status Service 137 Problems With Your
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    19 Specifications 20 Appendix FCC Notice (U.S. Only 149 FCC Class B 149 Macrovision Product Notice 150 Glossary 151 10 Contents
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    media to provide last-minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technicalreference material for technicians or experienced users. NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at support.dell.com. NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media may be optional and may not ship
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    remove and replace parts • Specifications • How to configure system settings • How to troubleshoot and solve problems User's Guide Microsoft Windows Help and Support Center 1 Click Start or → Help and Support→ Dell User and System Guides→ System Guides. 2 Click the User's Guide for your computer in
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    drives, and USB devices. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating To download Notebook System Software: 1 Go to support.dell.com, select your region or business segment, and enter your Service Tag. 2 Select Drivers
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    and Support. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon. 3 Click the topic that describes your problem. 4 Follow the instructions on the screen. • Information on network activity, the Power Management Dell QuickSet Help Wizard, hot keys, and other items controlled
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    About Your Computer Front View 1 11 10 9 2 2 3 4 5 6 8 7 1 display latch 2 display 4 device status lights 5 speakers (2) 7 touch pad 8 touch pad buttons 10 wireless enable/disable button 11 ambient light sensor 3 power button 6 keyboard 9 keyboard status lights About Your Computer 15
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    , see "Using the Display" on page 41. PO WE R B U T T O N - Press the power button to turn on the computer or exit a power management mode (see "Power Management Modes" on page 32). NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft® Windows® operating system shutdown
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    light operates as follows: • Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off). • Flashing orange: The battery charge is low. • Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low. SP E AK E RS - To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume-control keyboard
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    STATUS LIGHTS The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following: 9 Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled. A Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled. Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled. Left Side View 1 2 34 5 6 18 About Your Computer
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    The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer. I E E E 1 3 9 4 CO N NE C T O R - Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394a high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras. AUDIO CONNECTORS About
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    such as an optical drive, second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module in the media bay. For more information, see "About the Media Bay" on page 127. D E V I C E L A T C H R E L E A S E - Releases the media bay device. See "About the Media Bay" on page 127 for instructions. USB CONNECTORS Connect
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    . For information on using the network adapter, see the device user's guide supplied with your computer. See "Finding Information" on page 11. S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR Connects your computer to a TV. For more information, see "Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device" on page 54. USB
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    online user's guides. Connects serial devices, such as a mouse or handheld device. VGA CONNECTOR Connects an external VGA monitor. For more information, see "Using the Display" on page 41. A C A D A P T E R C O N N E C T O R - Attach an AC adapter to the computer. The AC adapter converts AC
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    a problem with the fan or the computer. Bottom View 1 2 3 7 6 5 4 1 battery charge gauge 2 battery-bay latch release 3 battery 4 memory module/coin-cell battery 5 docking device slot cover 6 air vents 7 hard drive B A T T E R Y C H A RG E G A U G E - Provides information on the battery
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    R Y C O V E R - Covers the compartment that contains one memory module and the coin-cell battery. For additional information, see "Adding and Replacing Parts" on page 111. D O C K I N G D E V I C E S L O T - Lets you attach your computer to a docking device. See the documentation that came with your
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    information to a new computer, you must run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. You can use the optional Operating System media this process or you can create a wizard disk with the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Windows XP Using the Wizard With
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    appears, click Next. 3 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer→ Next. 4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following drive→ Next. 5 Insert the removable media, such as a writable CD, and click OK. 26 Transferring Information to
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    : For more information about this procedure, search support.dell.com for document #154781 (What Are The Different Methods To Transfer Files From My Old Computer To My New Dell™ Computer Using the Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System?). NOTE: Access to the Dell™ Knowledge Base document may not be
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    28 Transferring Information to a New Computer
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    to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay. NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer to an electrical
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    information on the battery charge. Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter If Dell QuickSet is installed, press to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, battery health, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer. For more information
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    , and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See "Battery" on page 145 for more information about the
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    power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a predetermined period of inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby mode. NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby mode
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    need information. Charging the Battery NOTE: Using the AC adapter, all batteries use Dell™ ExpressCharge™. When the system is off, the battery will reach 80% of it's capacity during charging in about one hour, and 100% of it's capacity in about two hours. You can leave the battery in the computer as
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    about replacing the second battery, which is located in the media bay, see "Removing and Installing Media Bay Devices" on page 128. To remove the battery: 1 If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions
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    down and press the desired key. • To enable the keypad, press . The 9 light indicates that the keypad is active. • To disable the keypad, press again. Key Combinations System Functions Opens the Task Manager window. Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 35
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    key and down-arrow key Power Management Displays the Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter (see "Checking the Battery Charge" on page 30). Enables and disables wireless networking and Bluetooth wireless technology. Displays the status for each radio device installed in the computer
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    and Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if the computer is connected to a network). Windows logo key and Opens the System Properties dialog box. To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware
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    Control Panel, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center, click Start or → Help and Support. 2 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. 38 Using the Keyboard
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    3 Click OK to save the settings and close the window. Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 39
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    40 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
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    > and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard. NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors or projectors that you attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to change the
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    automatically to the closest supported values. To set the display resolution and refresh rate for your display, perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using. Microsoft® Windows® XP 1 Click Start→ Settings→ Control Panel. 2 Under Pick
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    your own hot key sequence by using the Catalyst Control Center's HotKey Manager. Using an External Monitor or Projector When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector) attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the
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    Microsoft® Windows® XP 1 Connect the external monitor, TV, or projector to the computer. 2 Click Start→ Settings→ Control Panel. 3 Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes. 4 Under Pick a task..., click the area you want to change, or under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Display. 5 In
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    (for example, to use your external monitor as your primary display after docking), perform the steps in the following section that corresponds to the operating system your computer is using. Microsoft® Windows® XP 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Under Pick a category, click
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    The ambient light sensor is located on the front of the computer display. The sensor detects available environmental light and automatically increases or decreases the display brightness to compensate for low-light and high-light environments. Because increased brightness uses more battery power
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    NOTE: Rebooting the computer returns the ambient light sensor to the setting (either enabled or disabled) as it was before it was adjusted. NOTE: The ambient light sensor adjusts the display backlighting on your portable computer only. It does not control the brightness on any external monitors or
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    48 Update with your book title
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    computer while playing CDs or DVDs. 1 Press the eject button on the front of the drive. 2 Pull out the tray. 3 Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray and snap the disc onto the spindle. NOTE: If you use a module that shipped with another computer, you need to install the drivers
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    4 Push the tray back into the drive. To format CDs for storing data, to create music CDs, or to copy CDs, see the CD software that came with your computer. NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs. A CD player includes the following basic buttons: Play. Move backward
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    How to Copy a CD or DVD NOTE: CD-RW/DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media. If you have a CD-RW/DVD combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches on the Sonic support website at sonic.com. The DVD-writable drives installed in Dell™ computers can write to
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    . For a list of formats supported by your DVD player, see the documentation provided with your DVD player or contact the manufacturer. • Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a blank 650-MB CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1-2 MB of blank space
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    the volume with the volume control buttons or by pressing the following keys: • Press < memory and preventing DVD playback, adjust the display properties. For instructions, see the following section that corresponds to your computer's operating system. Microsoft Windows XP 1 Click Start→ Control
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    . You can use a standard S-video cable and a standard audio cable to connect the computer to a TV or audio device. NOTE: Your computer supports Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) digital audio through the optional Dell D/Dock or D/Port port replicator. For information on enabling S/PDIF digital
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    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 cable). 2 Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output
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    for a TV NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the computer before you enable the display settings. Microsoft Windows XP 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2 Double-click Display and click the Settings tab. 3 Click
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    the tab for your video card. NOTE: To determine the type of video card installed in your computer, see the Windows Help and Support Center. To access the Help and Support Center in Windows Vista, click the Windows Vista Start button → Help and Support. Under Pick a Task, click Use Tools to view your
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    58 Using Multimedia
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    up a wireless LAN (WLAN). The Microsoft® Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® operating systems provide wizards to help guide you through the process of networking computers. For more information about networking, click Start or → Windows Help and Support. Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem
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    Setup Wizard→ Next→ Checklist for creating a network. NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). 2 Complete the checklist. 3 Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow
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    CD. Installation CDs usually contain installation and troubleshooting information. Install the required software according to the instructions provided by the router manufacturer. 4 Shut down your computer and any other wireless-enabled computers computer and the modem. 7 Disconnect the AC adapter
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    name of your router's broadcast name is Service Set Identifier (SSID) or network name. instructions in the user documentation for your wireless network card. Verify the type of wireless network card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support website at support.dell
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    card in Windows XP: 1 Click Start→ Settings→ Control Panel→ Network key when prompted. Network security settings are unique to your network. Dell cannot provide this information. NOTE: Your computer off. The wireless activity indicator displays whether your computer's integrated wireless devices are
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    card if purchased separately from your computer) If the utility is corrupted or deleted from your computer, see the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility user's guide for instructions. The user's guide is available by clicking Start or → Help and Support, or on the CD that accompanied your card if you
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    cellular service provider. For instructions and for additional information about using the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility, see the user's guide available by clicking Start or → Windows Help and Support Center. The user's guide is also available on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com
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    NOTE: Enabling Windows Firewall does not reduce the need for virus-checking software. For more information, click Start→ Control Panel→ Security→ Windows Firewall, or click Start or → Windows Help and Support Center. 66 Setting Up and Using Networks
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    supported PC Cards. NOTE: A PC Card is not a bootable device. The PC Card slot has one connector that supports a single Type I or Type II card. The PC Card slot supports , a wireless network adapter) is longer than a standard PC Card and extends outside the computer. Follow these precautions when
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    www.dell.com | support.dell.com CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide and see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 112. To install a PC Card: 1 Hold the card with its orientation symbol pointing into
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    a PC Card or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide and see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 112. NOTICE: Use the PC Card configuration utility (click the icon in the taskbar) to select
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    www.dell.com | support.dell.com 1 PC Card 1 2 2 release button 70 Using Cards
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    security cable slot on your Dell™ computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device. Passwords NOTE: Passwords are disabled when you receive your computer. A primary password, an administrator password, and a hard drive password all prevent unauthorized access to your
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    , Dell support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use the computer. Using a Primary/System Password The primary (system) password allows you to protect the computer from unauthorized access. Access User Accounts from the Control Panel
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    for the primary password. If the hard drive password is different from the primary password, the computer prompts you for both. Two different passwords provide greater security. If the administrative password is installed when the user creates the primary hard disk password, then the administrative
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    on a system after the hard disk password has been created will not enable unlocking of the hard disk using the administrative password. Trusted Platform Module (TPM) NOTE: Computers shipping into China are not equipped with the TPM feature. NOTE: The TPM feature supports encryption only if the
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    do not know, call a law enforcement agency where you live. • If the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of the company. • Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer. Provide the computer Service Tag, the case number, and the name, address, and phone number of
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    76 Securing Your Computer
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    in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Computer, Keyboard, and Display CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and remove any installed batteries. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water
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    lightly Replace disks to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation. CDs and DVDs NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions that come with the compressed-air product. Never touch the lens in the drive. If you notice problems
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    Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate. Dell Diagnostics CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. When to Use the Dell Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your computer
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    diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media. The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment (PSA), a series of initial tests of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, and so on. • During the assessment, answer any
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    . Write down the error code and problem description and contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138). NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell, technical support will ask for your Service Tag. 4 If you run a test from the Custom
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    Show icon on the taskbar option is checked. NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to support.dell.com and download the software. The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment. The icon in the taskbar functions differently when you click
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    Information Guide. Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 139) as you complete these checks. ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE Windows XP: Click Start→ My Computer. Windows Vista®: Click the Windows Vista Start button → Computer. If the floppy, CD
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    . 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 Windows XP: 1 Click Start→ My Computer
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    Click Start→ All Programs→ Modem Helper. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is not available on certain computers.) VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS 1 Click Start→ Control Panel→ Printers and Other Hardware→ Phone and Modem
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    does not respond to commands from the computer (see "Dell Support Utility" on page 82). DA T A E R RO R - The hard drive cannot read the data (see "Dell Support Utility" on page 82). D E C R EA S I N G A V A I L A B L E M E M O R Y - One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly seated
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    . Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 113), and boot the computer from a CD. Then shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see
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    ME - O F - D A Y C L O C K S T O P PE D - The reserve battery that supports the system configuration settings may require recharging. Connect your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 138). 88 Troubleshooting
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    of charge. Replace the battery, or connect the computer to an electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate hibernate mode or shut down the computer. IEEE 1394 Device Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide
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    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. 90 Troubleshooting
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    AC ADAPTER IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET. The computer stops responding NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. TU R N T H E C O M PU TE R O F F - If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard
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    upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware. R U N TH E DE L L DI A G N O S T I C S - See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 79. If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a software problem. Memory
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    mode. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer. C H A R G E T H E B A T T E R Y - The battery charge may be depleted. 1 Reinstall the battery. 2 Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet. 3 Turn on the computer. NOTE: Battery operating time (the
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    R Y MO D U L E S - If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 116). Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer Your computer is designed to use a 65-W or 90-W AC adapter. However, for optimum system performance, you should
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    E D B Y M I C R O S O F T W I N D O W S - Click Start→ Control Panel→ Printers and Other Hardware→ Scanners and Cameras. If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner. R E I N S T A L L T H E S C A N N E R D R I V E R - See the scanner documentation for instructions. Troubleshooting 95
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    lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference. REINSTALL THE AUD IO D RI VER - See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 104. 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 79. NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume
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    than your computer supports, it is recommended that you attach an external monitor to your computer. C H E C K T H E B A TT E R Y - If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn
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    an external monitor to the computer. 2 Turn on the computer and the monitor and 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 138). 98 Troubleshooting
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    program. (An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable docking-device configuration settings • Basic device-configuration settings • System security and hard-drive password settings NOTE: Unless you are an expert computer user or are directed to do so by Dell technical support
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    ) appear less bright. The upper-right corner of the screen displays help information for the currently highlighted option; the lower-right corner displays information about the computer. System-setup key functions are listed across the bottom of the screen. Commonly Used Options Certain options
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    your hard drive.) 1 Shut down the computer through the Start menu. 2 If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions. 3 Connect the computer using an AC adapter. 4 Turn on the computer. When the DELL logo
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    System Setup Program 102
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    • Upgrade your operating system. • Reinstall your operating system. • Connect or install a new device. 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. Windows XP 1 Click Start→ Control
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    www.dell.com | support.dell.com NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action. Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 105
    , or click Extract, follow the extracting instructions, and then read the readme file. If instructed to navigate to the driver files, click the CD directory on the driver information window to display the files associated with that driver. Using the Hardware Troubleshooter Tool If a device is either
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 106
    option that best describes the problem and follow the remaining troubleshooting steps. Restoring Your Operating System You can restore your operating system in the following ways: • Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore and Windows Vista® System Restore return your computer to an earlier operating
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 107
    steps are applicable only for Windows XP. If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled: 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Performance and Maintenance
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    on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so. 1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. 2 Insert the Operating System media. Click Exit if the Install Windows message appears. 3 Restart the computer
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    Interface Card (NIC) 5 Sound Device 6 Modem 7 Wireless Network Card 8 BlueTooth® Module 9 PC Card/ExpressCard Controller 10 Touch Pad 11 Other Enables and enhances the network controller. Enables and enhances the audio controller. Enables and enhances the modem. Enables and enhances the wireless
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    www.dell.com | support.dell.com 110 Reinstalling Software
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    • Flash BIOS update program CD Turning Off Your Computer NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close all open files and exit all open programs before you turn off your computer. 1 Shut down the operating system: a Save and close all open files and exit all open programs. b In Microsoft® Windows® XP
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    telephone or network cables from the computer. 5 Close the display and turn the computer upside-down on a flat work surface. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you service the computer. 6 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their
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    components. 10 Remove any installed card from the PC Card/ExpressCard slot (see "Left Side View" on page 18). 11 Remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive" on page 113). Hard Drive CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot, do not touch the metal housing of the
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    support for hard drives from sources other than Dell. NOTE: You need the Operating System media to install the Microsoft® Windows® operating system. You also need the Drivers and Utilities media for your computer to install the drivers and utilities on the new hard drive. To replace the hard drive
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    old hard drive to Dell in its original or comparable foam packaging. Otherwise, the hard drive may be damaged in transit. 2 1 1 foam packaging 2 hard drive Hinge Cover CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE
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    section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, you must remove the main battery before you begin working inside the computer. NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty. 116 Before
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    the keyboard, and DIMM B is located on the bottom of the computer under the memory module cover. DIMM A holds the basic memory module as configured from the factory. If you did not order additional memory, DIMM B is empty. Generally, if you add memory, you use DIMM B. If you are upgrading memory
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    do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it. 7 Replace the keyboard (see "Keyboard" on page 124). 8 Replace the hinge cover (see "Hinge Cover" on page 115). 9 Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet. 10 Turn on the
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    , click the Windows Vista Start button and Support→ Computer Information. → Help DIMM B Connector To install a memory module in the DIMM B connector: 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 111. 2 Turn the computer upside-down, loosen the captive screw on the memory module cover (see
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 120
    , remove the module and reinstall it. 5 Replace the memory module cover. NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer. 6 Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an
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    . CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery before you service the computer. NOTE: Depending on your system, the Mini-Card may be
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    1 1 antenna cables b Release the card by pushing the metal securing bracket away from the card until the card pops up slightly. 122 Before You Begin
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    Slide the card at a 45-degree angle out of its connector. NOTICE: The card connector is keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, realign the card. NOTE: Do not insert a Mobile , ensuring that you route the cables correctly. 7 Replace the keyboard or cover. Before You Begin 123
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    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). 1 Follow the procedures in
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    the three screws at the top of the keyboard. 9 Replace the hinge cover. 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
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 126
    To prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery before you service the computer. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 111. 2 On the bottom of the computer, loosen the captive screw on the memory module/coin-cell battery cover and remove the cover (see "Bottom View" on
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 127
    any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. You can install devices such as a floppy drive, CD drive, CD-RW drive, DVD drive, CD-RW/DVD drive, DVD+RW, second battery, or second hard drive in the media bay. About the Device Security Screw
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    computer. 2 If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions. 3 Close the display and turn the computer the drive. Store the device in a safe, dry place when it is not installed in the computer. Avoid
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    4 Pull the device out of the media bay. 5 Push the new device into the media bay until it clicks. 6 If you swapped the device with the computer running, the operating system automatically recognizes the device. If necessary, enter your password to unlock your computer. Before You Begin 129
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    130 Before You Begin
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    Network connectivity • Power management • Display • System information Depending on what you want to do in Dell™ QuickSet, you can start it by either clicking, doubleclicking, or right-clicking the QuickSet icon in the Microsoft® Windows® taskbar. The taskbar is located in the lower-right corner of
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 132
    132 Dell™ QuickSet
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    make the computer as light as possible, replace any devices installed in the module bay with the Dell TravelLite™ module. • Fully charge the main battery and any spare batteries that you plan to carry with you. • Shut down the computer. • Disconnect the AC adapter. NOTICE: When the display is closed
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    kinds of emergency travel assistance it offers to users of portable computers. Traveling by Air NOTICE: Do not walk the computer through a metal detector. Send the computer through an X-ray machine or have it hand-inspected. • Ensure that you have a charged battery available in case you are asked to
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    and troubleshooting procedures. See "Online Services" on page 136 for a more extensive list of Dell Support online. 5 If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see "Contacting Dell" on page 138. NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone near or at the computer so that the support staff
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 136
    allows a Dell service and support associate to access your computer through a broadband connection, diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision. For more information, go to support.dell.com and click DellConnect. Online Services You can learn about Dell products and services on
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 137
    ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 138. Problems With Your Order If you
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    Dell's receiving dock and returned to you. Before You Call NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell's automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also be asked for your Service Tag (located on the back or bottom of your computer
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 139
    your computer, follow the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide. 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
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    www.dell.com | support.dell.com 140 Getting Help
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 141
    chipset Data bus width DRAM bus width Processor address bus width Flash EPROM Graphics bus PCI bus PC Card CardBus controller PC Card connector AMD Turion™ 64 Single Core processors or AMD Turion 64 X2 Dual Core processors or AMD Sempron™ processors data cache: 64 KB instruction cache: 64 KB AMD
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    PC Card (continued) Cards supported PC Card connector size Data width (maximum) Memory Memory module connector Memory module capacities Memory type Minimum memory Maximum memory Ports and Connectors Serial Audio S-video TV-out VGA DVI USB Modem IEEE 1394a Mini-Card Network adapter 3.3-V and 5-V PC
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    : Type Controller Interface Network adapter Wireless LAN Wireless PAN (Bluetooth wireless technology) Wireless WAN (cellular) Video Video type Graphics API compliance Local frame buffer Maximum video memory LCD interface D/Port advanced port replicator D/Dock compatible (PCI connector not supported
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    Video TV support Audio Audio type Audio controller Stereo conversion Interfaces: Internal External Microphone Speaker Internal speaker amplifier Volume controls Display Type (active-matrix TFT) Dimensions (14.1-inch display): Height Width Diagonal Dimensions (15.4-inch display): Height Width
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    ion (56 WHr) 9-cell "smart" lithium ion (85 WHr) Lithium Polymer (48 WHr) in D-Module NOTE: Some auto/air adapters may not have sufficient wattage to charge a 9-cell battery, but they will still power the computer. 0.26 kg (0.57 lb) (4 cell) 0.35 kg (0.78 lb) (6 cell) 0.48 kg (1.1 lb) (9 cell
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 146
    Battery (continued) Charge time (approximate): Computer on Computer off Operating time Life span (approximate) Temperature range: Operating Storage AC Adapter Types Input voltage Input current (maximum) Input frequency Output current: 65 W 90 W Rated output voltage Dimensions and weight: Height
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 147
    AC Adapter (continued) Temperature range: Operating Storage 0° (2.7 kg), with a 14.1-inch XGA display, Dell TravelLite™ module, and 6-cell battery; weight varies, depending on configuration and user environment): Operating 0.66 GRMS Storage 1.30 GRMS Maximum shock (measured with hard drive in
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 148
    Environmental (continued) Storage Airborne contaminant level -15.2 to 10,668 m (-50 to 35,000 ft) G2 or lower as defined by ISA-S71.04-1985 148 Specifications
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 149
    the manufacturer's instruction manual, may cause Dell Inc. or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in compliance with the FCC regulations: Product name: Dell™ Latitude™ D531
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 150
    Model number: Company name: PP04X Dell Inc. Worldwide Regulatory Compliance & Environmental Affairs One Dell Way Round Rock, TX 78682 USA 512-338-4400 Macrovision Product Notice This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 151
    computer memory. AHCI - Advanced Host Controller Interface - An interface for a SATA hard drive Host Controller which allows the storage driver to enable technologies such as Native Command Queuing (NCQ) and hot plug. ALS - ambient light sensor - A feature that helps to control display brightness
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 152
    small amount of battery-powered CMOS memory to hold date, time, and other system setup program options. COA - Certificate of Authenticity - The Windows alpha-numeric code located on a sticker on your computer. Also referred to as the Product Key or Product ID. Control Panel - A Windows utility that
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 153
    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. DIMM - dual in-line memory module - A circuit board with memory chips that connects to a memory module on the system board. DIN connector - A round
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 154
    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. Most programs that operate on the Windows operating systems are GUIs. H hard drive - A drive that reads and writes data on a hard disk
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 155
    tiny electronic components are fabricated for use in computer, audio, and video equipment. IDE - integrated device electronics - An interface for mass storage devices in which the controller is integrated into the hard drive or CD drive. IEEE 1394 - Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 156
    used for data transfer ratings. media bay - A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module. memory - A temporary data storage area inside your computer. Because the data in memory is not permanent, it is recommended that you frequently save your
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 157
    the major computer components, such as memory, hard drives, and video. If no problems are detected during POST, the computer continues the start- up. processor - A computer chip that interprets and executes program instructions. Sometimes the processor is referred to as the CPU (central processing
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    drive speed is often measured in rpm. RTC - real time clock - Battery-powered clock on the system board that keeps the date and time after you shut down the computer. RTCRST - real-time clock reset - A jumper on the system board of some computers that can often be used for troubleshooting problems
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 159
    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 - super-extended graphics
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 160
    commonly used to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for 1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours. wallpaper - The background pattern or picture on the Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in
  • Dell Latitude D531 | User's Guide - Page 161
    Zip drive - A high-capacity floppy drive developed by Iomega Corporation that uses 3.5-inch removable disks called Zip disks. Zip disks are slightly larger than regular floppy disks, about twice as thick, and hold up to 100 MB of data. Glossary 161
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    162 Glossary
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www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Dell™ Latitude™ D531
User’s Guide
Model PP04X