Section |
Page |
Dell™ Vostro™ 1500 Owner’s Manual |
1 |
Contents |
3 |
1 |
15 |
Finding Information |
15 |
Drivers and Utilities Media |
15 |
Dell™ Product Information Guide |
15 |
Setup Diagram |
16 |
Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Vista™ Help and Support Center |
16 |
1 Click StartÆ Help and SupportÆ Dell User and System GuidesÆ System Guides. |
16 |
2 Click the User’s Guide for your computer. |
16 |
Service Tag and Microsoft Windows Product Key |
16 |
Dell Support Website - support.dell.com |
17 |
1 Go to support.dell.com, select your country/region, and then click Drivers & Downloads. |
17 |
2 Enter your Service Tag or product model, and then click Go. |
17 |
3 Select your operating system and language, and then click Find Downloads, or under Downloads Search, search for the keyword Notebook System Software. |
17 |
Windows Help and Support |
18 |
1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. |
18 |
2 Either select one of the topics listed, or type a word or phrase that describes your problem into the Search box, click the arrow icon, and then click the topic that describes your problem. |
18 |
3 Follow the instructions on the screen. |
18 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Help and Support. |
18 |
2 In Search Help, type a word or phrase that describes your problem, and then press <Enter> or click the magnifying glass. |
18 |
3 Click the topic that describes your problem. |
18 |
4 Follow the instructions on the screen. |
18 |
Dell QuickSet Help |
18 |
Operating System Media |
19 |
About Your Computer |
21 |
Determining Your Computer’s Configuration |
21 |
Front View |
22 |
Left Side View |
27 |
Right Side View |
30 |
Back View |
31 |
Bottom View |
34 |
3 |
37 |
Setting Up Your Computer |
37 |
Connecting to the Internet |
37 |
Setting Up Your Internet Connection |
38 |
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. |
38 |
2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. |
38 |
3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. |
38 |
Windows XP® |
38 |
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. |
38 |
2 Click StartÆ Internet Explorer. |
38 |
3 Click Connect to the Internet. |
38 |
4 In the next window, click the appropriate option: |
38 |
5 Click Next. |
38 |
6 Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then click Next. |
38 |
7 Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. |
38 |
Windows Vista® |
39 |
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. |
39 |
2 Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click Control Panel |
39 |
3 Under Network and Internet, click Connect to the Internet. |
39 |
4 Click either Broadband (PPPoE) or Dial-up, depending on how you want to connect: |
39 |
Transferring Information to a New Computer |
39 |
Microsoft Windows XP |
39 |
Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System Media |
40 |
1 Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click StartÆ All ProgramsÆ AccessoriesÆ System ToolsÆ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. |
40 |
2 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next. |
40 |
3 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New ComputerÆ Next. |
40 |
4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CDÆ Next. |
40 |
5 When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do not click Next at this time. |
40 |
1 On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System media. |
40 |
2 On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks. |
40 |
3 Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settingsÆ Next. |
40 |
4 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old ComputerÆ Next. |
40 |
5 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer. |
41 |
6 On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer and click Next. |
41 |
7 Click Finish. |
41 |
1 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next. |
41 |
2 On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next. |
41 |
3 Click Finished and restart the new computer. |
41 |
Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System Media |
41 |
1 Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard: click StartÆ All ProgramsÆ AccessoriesÆ System ToolsÆ Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. |
41 |
2 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next. |
41 |
3 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New ComputerÆ Next. |
41 |
4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following driveÆ Next. |
41 |
5 Insert the removable media, such as a writable CD, and click OK. |
41 |
6 When the disk creation completes and the Now go to your old computer message appears, do not click Next. |
42 |
7 Go to the old computer. |
42 |
1 On the old computer, insert the wizard disk. |
42 |
2 Click StartÆ Run. |
42 |
3 In the Open field on the Run window, browse to the path for fastwiz (on the appropriate removable media) and click OK. |
42 |
4 On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next. |
42 |
5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old ComputerÆ Next. |
42 |
6 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer. |
42 |
7 On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer and click Next. |
42 |
8 Click Finish. |
42 |
1 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next. |
42 |
2 On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next. Follow the instructions on the screen. |
42 |
3 Click Finished and restart the new computer. |
42 |
Microsoft Windows Vista™ |
43 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Transfer files and settingsÆ Start Windows Easy Transfer. |
43 |
2 In the User Account Control dialog box, click Continue. |
43 |
3 Click Start a new transfer or Continue a transfer in progress. |
43 |
Setting Up a Printer |
43 |
Printer Cable |
43 |
Connecting a USB Printer |
44 |
1 Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so. |
44 |
2 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way. |
44 |
3 Turn on the printer, and then turn on the computer. |
44 |
4 Depending on your computer’s operating system, a printer wizard may be available to help you install the printer driver: |
44 |
5 Click Add a local printer or Add a network, wireless, or Bluetooth printer. |
45 |
6 Follow the instructions in the Add Printer Wizard. |
45 |
Power Protection Devices |
45 |
Surge Protectors |
45 |
Line Conditioners |
46 |
Uninterruptible Power Supplies |
46 |
Using the Display |
47 |
Adjusting Brightness |
47 |
Using a Projector |
47 |
Making Images and Text Look Bigger or Sharper |
47 |
Microsoft® Windows® XP |
48 |
Windows Vista™ |
48 |
Using Both a Monitor and Your Computer Display |
49 |
Microsoft Windows XP |
49 |
Windows Vista |
50 |
Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate |
50 |
Microsoft Windows XP |
51 |
Windows Vista |
51 |
Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad |
53 |
Numeric Keypad |
53 |
Key Combinations |
54 |
System Functions |
54 |
Display Functions |
54 |
Battery |
54 |
Power Management |
54 |
Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions |
55 |
Dell™ QuickSet Key Combinations |
55 |
Adjusting Keyboard Settings |
55 |
Touch Pad |
55 |
Customizing the Touch Pad |
56 |
Using a Battery |
59 |
Battery Performance |
59 |
Checking the Battery Charge |
60 |
Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter |
60 |
Microsoft® Windows® Battery Meter |
61 |
Charge Gauge |
61 |
Low-Battery Warning |
62 |
Conserving Battery Power |
62 |
Power Management Modes |
63 |
Standby and Sleep Mode |
63 |
Hibernate Mode |
63 |
Configuring Power Management Settings |
64 |
Accessing Power Options Properties |
64 |
Charging the Battery |
65 |
Replacing the Battery |
65 |
Storing a Battery |
66 |
Using Multimedia |
67 |
Playing Media |
67 |
Playing Media Using Dell Travel Remote |
69 |
Copying CD, DVD, and Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) Media |
70 |
How to Copy a CD, DVD, or BD |
70 |
Using Blank CD, DVD, and BD Media |
71 |
Helpful Tips |
72 |
Adjusting the Volume |
73 |
Adjusting the Picture |
74 |
Using Dell MediaDirect™ |
74 |
Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device |
75 |
S-Video and Standard Audio |
77 |
S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio |
78 |
Composite Video and Standard Audio |
80 |
Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio |
82 |
Component Video and Standard Audio |
84 |
Component Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio |
87 |
Enabling the Display Settings for a TV |
90 |
Using ExpressCards |
91 |
ExpressCard Blanks |
91 |
Installing an ExpressCard |
92 |
Removing an ExpressCard or Blank |
93 |
9 |
95 |
Using the Memory Card Reader |
95 |
Memory Card Blanks |
95 |
Installing a Memory Card |
95 |
1 Hold the card with the top side of the card facing up. |
96 |
2 Slide the card into the slot until the card is completely seated in its connector. |
96 |
Removing a Memory Card or Blank |
96 |
Setting Up and Using Networks |
97 |
Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable |
97 |
Setting Up a Network |
98 |
Windows XP |
98 |
Windows Vista |
98 |
Wireless Local Area Network |
99 |
What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection |
99 |
Checking Your Wireless Network Card |
99 |
Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem |
100 |
Connecting to a WLAN |
101 |
Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network) |
104 |
What You Need to Establish a Mobile Broadband Network Connection |
104 |
Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card |
105 |
Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network |
105 |
Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card |
106 |
Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator |
107 |
Securing Your Computer |
109 |
Security Cable Lock |
109 |
Passwords |
109 |
If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen |
110 |
12 |
113 |
Troubleshooting |
113 |
Dell Technical Update Service |
113 |
Dell Diagnostics |
113 |
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics |
113 |
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive |
113 |
1 Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly. |
114 |
2 Turn on (or restart) your computer. |
114 |
3 Start the Dell Diagnostics in one of the following two ways. |
114 |
4 Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive. |
114 |
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media |
115 |
1 Insert your Drivers and Utilities media. |
115 |
2 Shut down and restart the computer. |
115 |
3 At the boot device menu, use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW, and then press <Enter>. |
115 |
4 Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears and then press <Enter>. |
115 |
5 Type 1 to start the Drivers and Utilities menu and then press <Enter>. |
115 |
6 Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer. |
115 |
7 At the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu, select the test you want to run. |
115 |
8 After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu. |
115 |
9 Remove your Drivers and Utilities media and then close the Main Menu window to exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer. |
115 |
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu |
116 |
Dell Support Center |
118 |
Dell Support |
118 |
Dell PC TuneUp |
119 |
Dell PC Checkup |
120 |
Dell Network Assistant |
120 |
1 Click the Dell Support Center icon on your computer’s desktop. |
120 |
2 Click Self HelpÆ Network /InternetÆ Network Management. |
120 |
DellConnect |
120 |
1 Click the Dell Support Center icon on your computer’s desktop. |
121 |
2 Click Assistance From DellÆ Technical SupportÆ DellConnectÆ Phone and follow the instructions. |
121 |
Drive Problems |
121 |
Ensure that Microsoft Windows recognizes the drive |
121 |
Test the drive |
121 |
Clean the drive or disk |
121 |
Ensure that the CD or DVD media is snapped onto the spindle |
121 |
Check the cable connections |
121 |
Check for hardware incompatibilities |
121 |
Run the Dell Diagnostics |
121 |
Optical drive problems |
121 |
Problems writing to a CD-RW or DVD+/-RW drive |
122 |
Close other programs |
122 |
Turn off Sleep State in Windows before writing to a CD/DVD disc |
122 |
Change the write speed to a slower rate |
122 |
The drive tray cannot eject |
122 |
1 Ensure that the computer is shut down. |
122 |
2 Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive, then push firmly until the tray is partially ejected. |
122 |
3 Gently pull out the tray until it stops. |
122 |
The drive makes an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound |
122 |
Hard drive problems |
122 |
Allow the computer to cool before turning it on |
122 |
1 Click Start and click My Computer. |
122 |
2 Right-click Local Disk C:. |
122 |
3 Click PropertiesÆToolsÆ Check Now. |
122 |
4 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors and click Start. |
122 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button and click Computer. |
122 |
2 Right-click Local Disk C:. |
122 |
3 Click PropertiesÆToolsÆ Check Now. |
123 |
4 Follow the instructions on the screen. |
123 |
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems |
123 |
Check the Microsoft Outlook® Express Security Settings |
123 |
1 In Outlook Express, click ToolsÆ OptionsÆ Security. |
123 |
2 Click Do not allow attachments to remove the check mark, as needed. |
123 |
Check the telephone line connection Check the telephone jack Connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack Use a different telephone line |
123 |
Run the Modem Helper diagnostics |
124 |
1 Click StartÆ All ProgramsÆ Modem Helper. |
124 |
2 Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. Modem Helper is not available on certain computers. |
124 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ All ProgramsÆ Modem Diagnostic Tool. |
124 |
2 Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. Modem diagnostics are not available on all computers. |
124 |
Verify that the modem is communicating with Windows |
124 |
1 Click StartÆ Control PanelÆ Printers and Other HardwareÆ Phone and Modem OptionsÆ Modems. |
124 |
2 Click the COM port for your modemÆ PropertiesÆ DiagnosticsÆ Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. |
124 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Control PanelÆ Hardware and SoundÆ Phone and Modem OptionsÆ Modems. |
124 |
2 Click the COM port for your modemÆ PropertiesÆ DiagnosticsÆ Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. |
124 |
Ensure that you are connected to the Internet |
124 |
Scan the computer for spyware |
124 |
Error Messages |
125 |
Auxiliary device failure |
125 |
Bad command or file name |
125 |
Cache disabled due to failure |
125 |
CD drive controller failure |
125 |
Data error |
125 |
Decreasing available memory |
125 |
Disk C: failed initialization |
125 |
Drive not ready |
125 |
Error reading PCMCIA card |
125 |
Extended memory size has changed |
126 |
The file being copied is too large for the destination drive |
126 |
A filename cannot contain any of the following characters: \\ / : * ? “ < > | |
126 |
Gate A20 failure |
126 |
General failure |
126 |
Hard-disk drive configuration error |
126 |
Hard-disk drive controller failure 0 |
126 |
Hard-disk drive failure |
126 |
Hard-disk drive read failure |
126 |
Insert bootable media |
127 |
Invalid configuration information-please run System Setup Program |
127 |
Keyboard clock line failure |
127 |
Keyboard controller failure |
127 |
Keyboard data line failure |
127 |
Keyboard stuck key failure |
127 |
Licensed content is not accessible in MediaDirect |
127 |
Memory address line failure at address, read value expecting value |
127 |
Memory allocation error |
127 |
Memory data line failure at address, read value expecting value |
127 |
Memory double word logic failure at address, read value expecting value |
128 |
Memory odd/even logic failure at address, read value expecting value |
128 |
Memory write/read failure at address, read value expecting value |
128 |
No boot device available |
128 |
No boot sector on hard drive |
128 |
No timer tick interrupt |
128 |
Not enough memory or resources. Exit some programs and try again |
128 |
Operating system not found |
128 |
Optional ROM bad checksum |
128 |
A required .DLL file was not found |
128 |
1 Click StartÆ Control PanelÆ Add or Remove ProgramsÆ Programs and Features. |
128 |
2 Select the program you want to remove. |
128 |
3 Click Uninstall. |
128 |
4 See the program documentation for installation instructions. |
128 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Control PanelÆ ProgramsÆ Programs and Features. |
129 |
2 Select the program you want to remove. |
129 |
3 Click Uninstall. |
129 |
4 See the program documentation for installation instructions. |
129 |
Sector not found |
129 |
Seek error |
129 |
Shutdown failure |
129 |
Time-of-day clock lost power |
129 |
Time-of-day clock stopped |
129 |
Time-of-day not set-please run the System Setup program |
129 |
Timer chip counter 2 failed |
129 |
Unexpected interrupt in protected mode |
130 |
x:\\ is not accessible. The device is not ready |
130 |
Warning: Battery is critically low |
130 |
ExpressCard Problems |
130 |
Check the ExpressCard |
130 |
Check that the card is recognized by Windows |
130 |
If you have problems with a Dell-provided ExpressCard |
130 |
If you have problems with an ExpressCard not provided by Dell |
130 |
IEEE 1394 Device Problems |
131 |
Ensure that the IEEE 1394 device is recognized by Windows |
131 |
1 Click StartÆ Control PanelÆ System and MaintenanceÆ Device Manager. |
131 |
If you have problems with a Dell-provided IEEE 1394 device |
131 |
If you have problems with an IEEE 1394 device not provided by Dell |
131 |
Keyboard Problems |
131 |
External Keyboard problems |
131 |
Check the keyboard cable |
131 |
Check the external keyboard |
132 |
1 Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and then turn it on again. |
132 |
2 Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine. |
132 |
3 From the Windows desktop, click StartÆ All ProgramsÆ AccessoriesÆ Notepad. |
132 |
4 Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display. |
132 |
To verify that the problem is with the external keyboard, check the integrated keyboard |
132 |
1 Shut down the computer. |
132 |
2 Disconnect the external keyboard. |
132 |
3 Turn on the computer. |
132 |
4 From the Windows desktop, click StartÆ All ProgramsÆ AccessoriesÆ Notepad. |
132 |
5 Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display. |
132 |
Run the keyboard diagnostics tests |
132 |
Unexpected characters |
132 |
Disable the numeric keypad |
132 |
Lockups and Software Problems |
133 |
The computer does not start |
133 |
Check the ac adapter |
133 |
The computer stops responding |
133 |
Turn the computer off |
133 |
A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly |
133 |
End the program |
133 |
1 Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to access the Task Manager. |
133 |
2 Click the Applications tab. |
133 |
3 Click to select the program that is no longer responding. |
133 |
4 Click End Task. |
133 |
Check the software documentation |
133 |
A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system |
134 |
Run the Program Compatibility Wizard |
134 |
1 Click StartÆ All ProgramsÆ AccessoriesÆ Program Compatibility WizardÆ Next. |
134 |
2 Follow the instructions on the screen. |
134 |
1 Click Start Æ Control PanelÆ ProgramsÆ Use an older program with this version of Windows. |
134 |
2 In the welcome screen, click Next. |
134 |
3 Follow the instructions on the screen. |
134 |
A solid blue screen appears |
134 |
Turn the computer off |
134 |
Dell MediaDirect problems |
134 |
Check the Dell MediaDirect help file for information |
134 |
To play movies with Dell MediaDirect, you must have a DVD drive and the Dell DVD Player |
134 |
Video Quality problems |
134 |
Cannot play some media files |
135 |
Adjusting the color settings for movies that contain scenes that are too dark or too bright |
135 |
Other software problems |
135 |
Check the software documentation or contact the software manufacturer for troubleshooting information |
135 |
Back up your files immediately |
135 |
Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive, floppy disks, or CDs |
135 |
Save and close any open files or programs and shut down your computer through the Start menu |
135 |
Scan the computer for spyware |
135 |
Run the Dell Diagnostics |
136 |
Memory Problems |
136 |
If you receive an insufficient memory message |
136 |
If you experience other memory problems |
136 |
Network Problems |
136 |
Check the network cable connector |
136 |
Check the network lights on the network connector |
137 |
Restart the computer and log on to the network again |
137 |
Check your network settings |
137 |
Mobile Broadband (Wireless Wide Area Network [WWAN]) |
137 |
Activate the Mobile Broadband ExpressCard |
137 |
Check network connection status in the Dell Mobile Broadband Card Utility |
137 |
Power Problems |
137 |
Check the power light |
138 |
Charge the battery |
138 |
1 Reinstall the battery. |
138 |
2 Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet. |
138 |
3 Turn on the computer. |
138 |
Check the battery status light |
138 |
Check the battery temperature |
138 |
Test the electrical outlet |
138 |
Check the AC adapter |
138 |
Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet |
138 |
Eliminate possible interference |
138 |
Adjust the power properties |
139 |
Reseat the memory modules |
139 |
Printer Problems |
139 |
Check the printer documentation |
139 |
Ensure that the printer is turned on |
139 |
Check the printer cable connections |
139 |
Test the electrical outlet |
139 |
Verify that the printer is recognized by Windows |
139 |
1 Click StartÆ Control PanelÆ Printers and Other HardwareÆ View installed printers or fax printers. |
139 |
2 If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. |
139 |
3 Click PropertiesÆ Ports. For a parallel printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). For a USB printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB. |
139 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Control PanelÆ Hardware and SoundÆ Printer. |
139 |
2 If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. |
139 |
3 Click Properties and click Ports. |
140 |
4 Adjust the settings, as needed. |
140 |
Reinstall the printer driver |
140 |
Scanner Problems |
140 |
Check the scanner documentation |
140 |
Unlock the scanner |
140 |
Restart the computer and try the scanner again |
140 |
Check the cable connections |
140 |
Verify that the scanner is recognized by Microsoft Windows |
140 |
1 Click StartÆ Control PanelÆ Printers and Other HardwareÆ Scanners and Cameras. |
140 |
2 If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner. |
140 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Control PanelÆ Hardware and SoundÆ Scanners and Cameras. |
140 |
2 If the scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner. |
140 |
Reinstall the scanner driver |
140 |
Sound and Speaker Problems |
141 |
No sound from integrated speakers |
141 |
Adjust the Windows volume control |
141 |
Adjust the volume using keyboard shortcuts |
141 |
Reinstall the sound (audio) driver |
141 |
No sound from external speakers |
141 |
Ensure that the subwoofer and the speakers are turned on |
141 |
Adjust the Windows volume control |
141 |
Disconnect headphones from the headphone connector |
141 |
Test the electrical outlet |
141 |
Eliminate possible interference |
141 |
Reinstall the audio driver |
141 |
Run the Dell Diagnostics |
141 |
No sound from headphones |
142 |
Check the headphone cable connection |
142 |
Adjust the Windows volume control |
142 |
Remote Control Problems |
142 |
Application does not respond to remote control within the specified maximum range |
142 |
Remote control is stuck in the slot |
142 |
Touch Pad or Mouse Problems |
142 |
Check the touch pad settings |
142 |
1 Click StartÆ Control PanelÆ Mouse. |
142 |
2 Adjust the settings, as needed. |
142 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Control PanelÆ Hardware and SoundÆ Mouse. |
142 |
2 Adjust the settings, as needed. |
142 |
Check the mouse cable |
142 |
To verify that the problem is with the mouse, check the touch pad |
143 |
1 Shut down the computer. |
143 |
2 Disconnect the mouse. |
143 |
3 Turn on the computer. |
143 |
4 At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it. |
143 |
Check the system setup program settings |
143 |
Test the mouse controller |
143 |
Reinstall the touch pad driver |
143 |
Video and Display Problems |
143 |
If the display is blank |
143 |
Check the battery |
143 |
Test the electrical outlet |
143 |
Check the AC adapter |
144 |
Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet |
144 |
Adjust the power properties |
144 |
Switch the video image |
144 |
If the display is difficult to read |
144 |
Adjust the brightness |
144 |
Move the external subwoofer away from the computer or monitor |
144 |
Eliminate possible interference |
144 |
Rotate the computer to face a different direction |
144 |
Adjust the Windows display settings |
144 |
1 Click StartÆ Control PanelÆ Appearance and Themes. |
144 |
2 Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon. |
144 |
3 Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution. |
144 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Control PanelÆ Hardware and SoundÆ PersonalizationÆ Display Settings. |
144 |
2 Adjust Resolution and Colors settings, as needed. |
144 |
Run the Video diagnostics tests |
144 |
See \ |
144 |
If only part of the display is readable |
145 |
Connect an external monitor |
145 |
1 Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer. |
145 |
2 Turn on the computer and the monitor, and then adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls. |
145 |
Drivers |
145 |
What Is a Driver? |
145 |
Identifying Drivers |
145 |
1 Click StartÆ Control Panel. |
146 |
2 Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance, and click System. |
146 |
3 In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab, and click Device Manager. |
146 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button and right-click Computer. |
146 |
2 Click PropertiesÆ Device Manager. |
146 |
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities |
146 |
Using Windows Device Driver Rollback |
146 |
1 Click StartÆ My ComputerÆ PropertiesÆ HardwareÆ Device Manager. |
146 |
2 Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties. |
146 |
3 Click the Drivers tabÆ Roll Back Driver. |
146 |
1 Click the Windows Vista start button , and right-click Computer. |
147 |
2 Click PropertiesÆ Device Manager. |
147 |
3 Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click Properties. |
147 |
4 Click the Drivers tabÆRoll Back Driver. |
147 |
Using the Drivers and Utilities Media |
147 |
1 With the Windows desktop displayed, insert your Drivers and Utilities media. |
147 |
2 When the Drivers and Utilities installation program starts, follow the prompts on the screen. |
147 |
3 When the InstallShield Wizard Complete window appears, remove the Drivers and Utilities disc and click Finish to restart the computer. |
147 |
4 When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the Drivers and Utilities disc. |
147 |
5 At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next. |
148 |
6 Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on the screen. |
148 |
Manually Reinstalling Drivers |
148 |
1 Click StartÆ My ComputerÆ PropertiesÆ HardwareÆ Device Manager. |
148 |
2 Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example, Audio or Video). |
148 |
3 Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver. |
148 |
4 Click the Driver tabÆ Update Driver. |
148 |
5 Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)Æ Next. |
148 |
6 Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files. |
148 |
7 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next. |
149 |
8 Click Finish and restart your computer. |
149 |
1 Click the Windows Vista start button , and right-click Computer. |
149 |
2 Click PropertiesÆ Device Manager. |
149 |
3 Double-click the type of device for which you are installing the driver (for example, Audio or Video). |
149 |
4 Double-click the name of the device for which you are installing the driver. |
149 |
5 Click the Driver tabÆ Update DriverÆ Browse my computer for driver software. |
149 |
6 Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files. |
149 |
7 When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click the name of the driverÆ OKÆ Next. |
149 |
8 Click Finish and restart your computer. |
149 |
Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems |
149 |
1 Click StartÆ Help and Support. |
149 |
2 Type hardware troubleshooter in the search field and press <Enter> to start the search. |
149 |
3 In the Fix a Problem section, click Hardware Troubleshooter. |
150 |
4 In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, select the option that best describes the problem and click Next to follow the remaining troubleshooting steps. |
150 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button and click Help and Support. |
150 |
2 In the Find an answer section, click Troubleshooting. |
150 |
3 In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and follow the remaining troubleshooting steps. |
150 |
Restoring your Microsoft Windows Operating System |
150 |
Restoring Windows Vista® |
150 |
Using Windows Vista System Restore |
151 |
Creating a Restore Point |
151 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Help and Support. |
152 |
2 Type System Restore in the search field and press <Enter>. |
152 |
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State |
152 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Control PanelÆ System and MaintenanceÆ Back Up and Restore Center. |
152 |
2 In the Tasks list, click Repair Windows using System Restore. |
152 |
3 Click Continue in the User Account Control (UAC) dialog box asking for permission to run the application. |
152 |
4 Click Next in the System Restore window to view the most recent restore points in chronological order. |
152 |
5 Select the Show restore points older than 5 days check box to view the complete list of restore points. |
152 |
6 Select a restore point. Try to restore from the most recent restore point. If this restore point fails to correct the problem,... |
152 |
7 Click NextÆ Finish. |
152 |
8 When prompted, click Yes. |
152 |
9 After System Restore finishes collecting data, the computer restarts. |
152 |
10 After the computer restarts, click OK. |
152 |
Undoing the Last System Restore |
153 |
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Help and Support. |
153 |
2 Type System Restore in the search field and press <Enter>. |
153 |
3 Click Undo my last restoration, and then click Next. |
153 |
Restoring the Computer to the Default Factory Configuration |
153 |
1 Restart the computer. To do this, click the Windows Vista Start button Æ Æ Restart. |
153 |
2 As the computer restarts, press <F8> until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears on the screen. |
153 |
3 Press <Down Arrow> to select Repair Your Computer on the Advanced Boot Options menu, and then press <Enter>. |
153 |
4 Specify the language settings that you want, and then click Next. |
153 |
5 Log in as a user who has administrative credentials, and then click OK. |
153 |
6 Click Dell Factory Image Restore. |
153 |
7 In the Dell Factory Image Restore window, click Next. |
153 |
8 Select the Yes, reformat hard drive and restore system software to factory condition check box. |
154 |
9 Click Next. The computer is restored to the default factory configuration. |
154 |
10 When the restore operation is completed, click Finish to restart the computer. |
154 |
Using the Operating System Media |
154 |
Before You Begin |
154 |
Reinstalling Windows Vista |
154 |
1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. |
155 |
2 Insert the Operating System media. |
155 |
3 Click Exit if the Install Windows message appears. |
155 |
4 Restart the computer. |
155 |
5 When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive, and then press <Enter>. |
155 |
6 Press any key to Boot from CD-ROM. |
155 |
7 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation. |
155 |
Restoring Windows XP |
155 |
Using Microsoft Windows System Restore |
156 |
Starting System Restore |
156 |
1 Click StartÆ All ProgramsÆ AccessoriesÆSystem ToolsÆ System Restore. |
156 |
2 Click either Restore my computer to an earlier time or Create a restore point. |
156 |
3 Click Next and follow the remaining prompts on the screen. |
156 |
Undoing the Last System Restore |
156 |
1 Click StartÆ All ProgramsÆ AccessoriesÆ System ToolsÆ System Restore. |
156 |
2 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next. |
156 |
Enabling System Restore |
157 |
1 Click StartÆ Control PanelÆ Performance and MaintenanceÆ System. |
157 |
2 Click the System Restore tab and ensure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked. |
157 |
Using Dell™ PC Restore |
157 |
1 Turn on the computer. |
157 |
2 Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press <Ctrl><F11>. |
157 |
3 Click Restore and click Confirm. |
157 |
4 When prompted, click Finish to reboot the computer. |
158 |
5 When prompted, click Yes. |
158 |
6 Click Next. |
158 |
7 After the computer restarts, click OK. |
158 |
1 Log on to the computer as a local administrator. |
158 |
2 In Microsoft Windows Explorer, go to c:\\dell\\utilities\\DSR. |
158 |
3 Double-click the filename DSRIRRemv2.exe. |
158 |
4 Click OK to remove the PC Restore partition on the hard drive. |
158 |
5 Click Yes when a confirmation message appears. |
159 |
6 Right-click Local Disk (C) in Windows Explorer, click Properties, and verify that the additional disk space is available as indicated by the increased value for Free Space. |
159 |
7 Click Finish to close the PC Restore Removal window and restart the computer. |
159 |
Using the Operating System Media |
159 |
Before You Begin |
159 |
Reinstalling Windows XP |
159 |
1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. |
160 |
2 Insert the Operating System media. |
160 |
3 Click Exit if the Install Windows message appears. |
160 |
4 Restart the computer. |
160 |
5 When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive, and then press <Enter>. |
160 |
6 Press any key to Boot from CD-ROM. |
160 |
7 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation. |
160 |
Adding and Replacing Parts |
161 |
Before You Begin |
161 |
Recommended Tools |
161 |
Turning Off Your Computer |
161 |
Before Working Inside Your Computer |
162 |
Hard Drive |
164 |
Removing the Hard Drive |
164 |
Replacing the Hard Drive |
166 |
Returning a Hard Drive to Dell |
167 |
Optical Drive |
167 |
Removing the Optical Drive |
167 |
Hinge Cover |
168 |
Removing the Hinge Cover |
168 |
Replacing the Hinge Cover |
169 |
Keyboard |
169 |
Removing the Keyboard |
170 |
Replacing the Keyboard |
171 |
Memory |
172 |
Removing the DIMM A Memory Module |
172 |
Replacing the DIMM A Memory Module |
173 |
Removing the DIMM B Memory Module |
175 |
Replacing the DIMM B Memory Module |
176 |
Subscriber Identity Module |
178 |
Wireless Mini-Cards |
179 |
Removing a WLAN Card |
179 |
Replacing a WLAN Card |
181 |
Removing a Mobile Broadband or WWAN Card |
182 |
Replacing a WWAN Card |
185 |
Removing a WPAN Card |
186 |
Replacing a WPAN Card |
187 |
Flash Cache Module |
187 |
Removing the FCM |
187 |
Replacing the FCM |
188 |
Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology |
189 |
Removing the Card |
189 |
Coin-Cell Battery |
190 |
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery |
190 |
Dell™ QuickSet Features |
193 |
Traveling With Your Computer |
195 |
Identifying Your Computer |
195 |
Packing the Computer |
195 |
Travel Tips |
196 |
Traveling by Air |
196 |
Getting Help |
197 |
Obtaining Assistance |
197 |
Technical Support and Customer Service |
198 |
DellConnect |
198 |
Online Services |
198 |
AutoTech Service |
199 |
Automated Order-Status Service |
199 |
Problems With Your Order |
199 |
Product Information |
200 |
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit |
200 |
Before You Call |
201 |
Contacting Dell |
203 |
Specifications |
205 |
Appendix |
215 |
Using the System Setup Program |
215 |
Viewing the System Setup Screen |
216 |
System Setup Screen |
216 |
Commonly Used Options |
216 |
Cleaning Your Computer |
218 |
Computer, Keyboard, and Display |
218 |
Touch Pad |
219 |
Mouse |
219 |
Media |
220 |
Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) |
220 |
Definition of \ |
221 |
Definition of \ |
221 |
FCC Notice (U.S. Only) |
221 |
FCC Class B |
221 |
Macrovision Product Notice |
223 |
Glossary |
225 |