Dell XPS 8300 Setup Guide

Dell XPS 8300 Manual

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  • Dell XPS 8300 | Setup Guide - Page 1
    SETUP GUIDE
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    SETUP GUIDE Regulatory model: D03M Regulatory type: D03M004
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    in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell™, the DELL logo, XPS™, Solution Station™, and DellConnect™ are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel® is a registered trademark and Core™ is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the
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    15 Using Your XPS Desktop 18 Front View Features 18 Top View Features 20 Back View Features 24 Back Panel Connectors 26 Software Features 28 Dell Dock 29 Dell DataSafe Online Backup 30 Solving Problems 31 Beep Codes 31 Network Problems 32 Power Problems 33 Memory Problems 34 Lockups
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    Contents Hardware Troubleshooter 42 Dell Diagnostics 42 Restoring Your Operating System 45 System Restore 46 Dell DataSafe Local Backup 47 System Recovery Media 50 Dell Factory Image Restore 51 Getting Help 53 Technical Support and Customer Service 54 DellConnect 54 Online Services 55
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    This section provides information about setting up your Dell XPS 8300 desktop. WARNING: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
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    Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Lifting Your Computer To ensure safety and to avoid any damage to your computer, lift it by holding the lift points in the front and back of your computer. 6
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    Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Before Setting Up Your Computer When positioning your computer, ensure that you allow easy access to a power source, adequate ventilation, and a level surface to place your computer. Restricting airflow around your computer may cause it to overheat. To prevent overheating
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    card is different. You can purchase the DVI-to-VGA adapter, HDMI-to-DVI adapter, and additional HDMI or DVI cables at www.dell.com. NOTE: When connecting to a single display, connect the display to ONLY ONE of the connectors on your computer. NOTE: Your computer supports the Intel multiple monitor
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    Setting Up Your XPS Desktop See the following table to identify the connectors on your computer and display. Connection Type VGA-to-VGA (VGA cable) Computer Cable Display DVI-to-DVI (DVI cable) DVI-to-VGA (DVI-to-VGA adapter + VGA cable) HDMI-to-HDMI (HDMI cable) HDMI-to-DVI (HDMI-
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    Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Connect the Keyboard and Mouse Connect the USB keyboard and mouse to the USB connectors on the back panel of your computer. 10
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    one end of the network cable to either a network port or a broadband device. Connect the other end of the network cable to the network connector (RJ45 connector) on the back panel of your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been securely attached. Setting Up Your XPS Desktop 11
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    Setting Up Your XPS Desktop Connect the Power Cable Press the Power Button 12
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    will need to reinstall the operating system. Setting Up Your XPS Desktop NOTE: For optimal performance of your computer, it is recommended that you download and install the latest BIOS and drivers for your computer available at support.dell.com. NOTE: For more information on the operating system
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    does not support rewritable discs. To create a system recovery media: 1. Insert the disc or USB key in the computer. 2. Click Start → All Programs→ Dell DataSafe Local Backup. 3. Click Create Recovery Media. 4. Follow the instructions on the screen. NOTE: For information on restoring your operating
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    . 2. Turn on your computer. 3. Click Start → All Programs→ Windows Media Center→ Tasks→ Settings→ TV. 4. Follow the instructions on the screen. Connect to the Internet (Optional) To connect to the Internet, you need an external modem or network connection and an Internet Service Provider (ISP). If
  • Dell XPS 8300 | Setup Guide - Page 18
    router: 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2. Click Start → Control Panel. 3. In the search box, type network, and then click Network and Sharing Center→ Connect to a network. 4. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. Setting Up Your Internet
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    . The Connect to the Internet window appears. NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose or contact your ISP. 4. Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. Setting Up Your XPS Desktop 17
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    Using Your XPS Desktop This section provides information about the features available on your XPS desktop. Front View Features 1 2 9 3 8 4 5 7 6 18
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    - Can support an optional Dell FlexBay compatible device such as a front panel USB 3.0 compliant interface. 6 FlexBay cover - Covers the FlexBay slot. 7 USB 2.0 connectors (2) - Connect to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player. Using Your XPS Desktop
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    Using Your XPS Desktop Top View Features 1 2 7 3 6 4 5 20
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    and Express Service Code - Used to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call technical support. 2 Microphone or line-in connector - Connects to a microphone or inputs signal for use with audio programs. 3 Headphone connector - Connects to a pair of headphones
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    allows you to charge portable devices that support USB charging even while your computer is powered on/off or in sleep state. This feature can be enabled/disabled using the system setup (BIOS) utility. NOTE: Certain devices may not charge when the computer is powered off or in sleep state. In
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    Using Your XPS Desktop 23
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    Using Your XPS Desktop Back View Features 1 2 3 6 5 4 24
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    power supply. NOTE: The power supply light may not be available on all computers. 3 Back panel connectors - Connect USB, audio, video, and other devices to the appropriate connectors. 4 Expansion card slots - Provide access to connectors on any installed PCI Express cards. Using Your XPS Desktop
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    Your XPS Desktop Back Panel Connectors 1 2 3 4 5 12 6 11 10 7 89 26 1 S/PDIF connector - Connects to amplifiers, speakers, or TVs for digital audio output through optical cables. 2 HDMI connector - Connects to the HDMI connector on your display or TV. 3 eSATA connector - Connects
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    player, CD player, or VCR. 11 Center/subwoofer connector - Connects to a center speaker or subwoofer. 12 Network connector and light - Connects your computer to a network or a broadband device if you are using a wired network. The two lights next to the connector indicate the status and
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    Your XPS Desktop Software Features Productivity and Communication You can use your computer to create presentations, brochures, greeting cards, fliers, and spreadsheets. You can also edit and view digital photographs and images. Check your purchase order for software installed on your computer
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    Using Your XPS Desktop Dell Dock The Dell Dock is a group of icons that provides easy access to the category or icon on the Dock and click Delete shortcut or Delete category. 2. Follow the instructions on the screen. Personalize the Dock 1. Right-click the Dock and click Advanced Setting... 2.
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    disasters. You can access the service on your computer using a password‑protected account. For more information, go to DellDataSafe.com. To schedule backups: 1. Double-click the Dell DataSafe Online icon in the notification area of your desktop. 2. Follow the instructions that appear on the screen
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    parts, see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals. Beep Code One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Possible Problem Possible system board failure - BIOS ROM checksum failure No RAM detected NOTE: If you installed or replaced the memory module, ensure that the memory module is seated properly
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    Solving Problems Network Problems Wireless Connections If the network connection is lost - The wireless router is offline or wireless has been disabled on the computer. • Check your wireless router to ensure it is powered on and connected to your data source (cable modem or network hub). • Re-
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    off there may be a possible problem with the power supply or the power cable. • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 61). If the power light is solid white and the computer is not responding - The display may not be connected or powered on. • Ensure that the display
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    additional memory (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals). • Reseat the memory modules (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory. • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on
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    the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory. • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 61). Lockups and Software Problems If the computer does not start up - Ensure that the power cable is
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    power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off and then restart your computer. If a program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating system - Run the Program Compatibility Wizard. The Program Compatibility Program Compatibility Wizard: 1. Click Start → Control
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    Problems -- Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly. -- Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program. -- If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program. -- Write down any error message that is displayed to help in troubleshooting when contacting Dell
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    and links to other Dell tools and diagnostic services. To launch the application, click Start → All Programs→ Dell→ Dell Support Center→ Launch Dell Support Center. The Dell Support Center home page displays your computer's model number, service tag, express service code, warranty status, and alerts
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    View detailed information about your hardware and operating system configurations; access copies of your service contracts, warranty information, and warranty renewal options. Get Help - View Dell Technical Support options, Customer Support, Tours and Training, Online Tools, Owner's Manual, Warranty
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    is reset, BIOS Setup default has been loaded- Possible system board failure or RTC battery low. Replace the battery (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals) or Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 61) for assistance. CPU fan failure - CPU fan has failed. CPU fan needs replacement
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    Manual at support.dell.com/manuals) or Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 61) for assistance. USB over current error - Disconnect the USB device. Your USB device needs more power for it to function properly. Use an external power source to connect the USB device, or if your device has two
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    Support. 2. Type hardware troubleshooter in the search field and press to start the search. 3. In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and follow the remaining troubleshooting steps. Dell Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your computer, perform
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    the Microsoft Windows desktop; then, shut down your computer and try again. Using Support Tools 4. Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press . This will invoke the PSA on your computer. 5. Follow the instructions that appear on the screen. 6. If you encounter a problem during the test
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    select OK. Starting Dell PC Checkup Dell PC Checkup scans and tests your computer hardware. It provides automated fixes for common configuration issues. 1. Click Start → All Programs→ Dell→ Dell Support Center→ Launch PC Checkup. 2. Select the test you want to run and follow the instructions on the
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    resolve your problem System recovery media when operating system failure prevents the use of System Restore and DataSafe Local Backup when installing the Dell factory-installed software on a newly installed hard drive Dell Factory Image Restore Operating System disc to restore your computer to
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    the search box, type System Restore and press . 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. 3. Click Next and follow the instructions on the screen. In the
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    any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. Create backup media of applications you need to install on your computer before using Dell DataSafe Local Backup. Use Dell DataSafe Local Backup only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem. CAUTION: Although
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    (Recommended)" on page 14) Dell DataSafe Local Backup Basic To restore your operating system and Dell factory-installed software while preserving the data files: 1. Turn off your computer. 2. Disconnect all the devices (USB drive, printer, and so on) connected to the computer and remove any newly
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    . NOTE: For more information, see knowledge base article 353560 at support.dell.com. Restoring Your Operating System Upgrading to Dell DataSafe Local Backup Professional NOTE: Dell DataSafe Local Backup Professional may be installed on your computer, if you ordered it at the time of purchase
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    failure that prevents the use of the recovery options installed on your computer. • Hard drive failure that prevents data from being recovered. To restore the operating system and Dell factory-installed software on your computer using the system recovery media: 1. Insert the system recovery disc or
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    drive and removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. If possible, back up the data before using this option. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem. NOTE: Dell Factory Image Restore may not be available in
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    Computer. The System Recovery Options window appears. 4. Select a keyboard layout and click Next. 5. To access the recovery options, log on as a local user. To access the command prompt, type administrator in the User name field, then click OK. 6. Click Dell Factory Image Restore. The Dell Factory
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    and troubleshooting procedures. See "Online Services" on page 55 for a more extensive list of Dell Support online. 5. If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see "Before You Call" on page 59. NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone near or at the computer so that the support staff
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    the contact information for your region or go to support.dell.com. DellConnect DellConnect is a simple online access tool that 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
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    Dell products and services on the following websites: • www.dell.com • www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) • www.dell.com/jp (Japan only) • www.euro.dell.com (Europe only) • www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries) • www.dell.ca (Canada only) You can access Dell Support
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    To check on the status of any Dell products that you have 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. If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts
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    in the product. Remove any and all confidential, proprietary and personal information, as well as removable media, such as CDs and media cards. Dell is not responsible for any of your confidential, proprietary or personal information; lost or corrupted data; or damaged or lost removable media that
  • Dell XPS 8300 | Setup Guide - Page 60
    responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted. NOTE: Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at
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    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 at the top of your computer). Locating Your Service Tag and Express Service Code The Service Tag and Express Service Code
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    : • Address: • Phone number: • Service Tag and Express Service Code (located on a label at the top of the computer): • 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
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    -up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell. • Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code: • Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed: Contacting Dell For customers in the United
  • Dell XPS 8300 | Setup Guide - Page 64
    features upgrade your computer with new or additional components like a new hard drive reinstall or replace a worn or defective part See: "System Recovery Media" on page 50 "Dell Diagnostics" on page 42 "My Dell Downloads" on page 39 support.dell.com the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals
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    find your Service Tag/Express Service Code - You must use the service tag to identify your computer on support.dell.com or to contact technical support the top of your computer "Dell Support Center" on page 38 find drivers and downloads; readme files support.dell.com access technical support and
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    To launch the Dell Support Center, click Start → All Programs→ Dell→ Dell Support Center→ Launch Dell Support Center. Computer Model Dell XPS 8300 Processor Type Intel Core i5 Intel Core i7 System Chipset Type Intel H67 Drives Internally accessible Externally accessible two 3.5-inch bays for
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    GB, configurations 12 GB, and 16 GB NOTE: For instructions on upgrading the memory, see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals. Specifications Audio Audio controller Video UMA Video controller Discrete Video controller Integrated 7.1 channel; High Definition Audio with S/PDIF (optical
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    -in connector Back panel six connectors for 7.1 channel support S/PDIF one digital S/PDIF (optical) connector External Connectors eSATA Network adapter one back-panel connector one RJ45 connector USB VGA two top-panel, two front-panel, and four back-panel USB 2.0 compliant connectors
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    lithium coin-cell Power DC Power Supply Wattage Input voltage Input frequency Output current 460 W 115/230 VAC 50/60 Hz 8 A/4 A Specifications Communication Network adapter 10/100/1000 Ethernet LAN on system board Wireless (optional) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless technology Physical Height
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    Specifications Computer Environment Temperature range: Operating 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F) Storage -40°C to 65°C (-40°F to 149°F) Relative humidity 20% to 80% (maximum) (noncondensing) Maximum shock (for operating - measured with Dell Diagnostics running on the hard drive and a 2-ms half
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    Model Number Input Regulatory Type Input Voltage Frequency Rated Output Current D03M D03M004 115/230 VAC 50/60 Hz 8 A/4 A For details, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance. 69
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    and creating 28 computer capabilities 28 connect(ing) display 8 optional network cable 11 to the Internet 15 Contacting Dell online 61 customer service 54 D DataSafe Local Backup 47 DellConnect 54 Dell Diagnostics 42 Dell Factory Image Restore 51 70 Diagnostic Checklist 60 drivers and downloads 63
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    getting assistance and support 53 I Internet connection 15 ISP Internet Service Provider 15 M memory problems solving 34 N network connection fixing 32 network connector location 27 P problems, solving 31 products information and purchasing 56 R resources, finding more 62 restoring factory image 51
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    problems 31 specifications 64 support e-mail addresses 55 support sites worldwide 55 System Messages 40 System Recovery Media 50 system reinstall options 45 System Restore 46 T TV tuner 15 72 U USB 2.0 back connectors 26 front connectors 19 W warranty returns 57 Windows Program Compatibility
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    Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.com
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SETUP GUIDE