Xps-420 Owner's Manual En-Us

book.
book Page 1 Tuesday, November 27, 2007 10:29 AM
Dell™ XPS™ 420 Owner’s Manual
Model DC01L
w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m
book.book Page 2 Tuesday, November 27, 2007 10:29 AM
Notes, Notices, and Cautions

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of
your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data
and tells you how to avoid the problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury,
or death.
If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to

Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable.
____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2007 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly
forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, XPS, Dell TravelLite, the Dell Media Xcelerator,
Yours Is Here, and StrikeZone are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, Intel Core 2 Extreme , Intel
Core 2 Duo, Intel Core 2 Quad, Intel SpeedStep, and Intel ViiV are either trademarks or registered
trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, Outlook, SideShow,and the
Windows Vista Start button are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation
in the United States and/or other countries; Blu-ray Disc is a trademark of the Blu-ray Disc Association;
Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming
the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and
trade names other than its own.
Model DC01L
November 2007 P/N GX404 Rev. A01

Contents
Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer . . . 15

Front and Back View of the Computer . . . . . . . . . 15
Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Front I/O Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Back View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Back I/O Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure . . . . . . . 22
Connecting Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Connecting a Monitor (Without an Adapter) . . . . 25
Connecting a Monitor (With an Adapter) . . . . . 26
Connecting Two or More Monitors . . . . . . . . 28
Connecting a TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Changing the Display Settings . . . . . . . . . . . 30
About Your RAID Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

RAID Level 0 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
RAID Level 1 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Configuring Your Computer for RAID . . . . . . . . 32
®
Using the Intel RAID Option ROM Utility . . . . . 33
Using the Intel® Application Accelerator . . . . . 36
Dell DataSafe (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Contents 3
Intel® Viiv™ Technology (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Using Intel Viiv Quick Resume
Technology (QRT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Enabling the QRT Feature in System Setup . . . . 42
Enabling the QRT Feature in the Operating
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Using Multimedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Playing CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Copying Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
How to Copy a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
How to Copy a Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) Media . . . . . 45
Using Blank CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Using a Media Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Understanding the Media Xcelerator™ (Optional) . . . 49
Understanding Windows® SideShow™ and the

LCD display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Configuring the LCD display . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Adding Gadgets To LCD Display Menu . . . . . . . 51
Setting Up a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Printer Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Connecting a USB Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Setting Up Your Internet Connection . . . . . . . . 54
Network Setup Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Transferring Information to a New Computer . . . . . . 56
4 Contents
Power Management Options in Windows Vista . . . . 56

Sleep Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Hybrid Sleep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Hibernate Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Configuring Power Management Settings . . . . . 57
2 Optimizing for Greater Performance . . . . 59

Understanding Intel™ SpeedStep® Technology . . . . 59
3 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Coin-Cell Battery Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . . . . . . 63
Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
IEEE 1394a Device Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Lockups and Software Problems . . . . . . . . . 66
Memory Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Network Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Scanner Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Sound and Speaker Problems . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Video and Monitor Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Power Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Diagnostic Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Beep Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Contents 5
System Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
When to Use Dell Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Starting Dell Diagnostics From Your
Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and
Utilities Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities . . . . . . . . . . 91
Using Windows Device Driver Rollback . . . . . . 91
Using the Drivers and Utilities Media . . . . . . . 92
Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems

in the Microsoft Windows Vista™ Operating
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Restoring Your Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Using Microsoft Windows System Restore . . . . 94
Using Dell Factory Image Restore . . . . . . . . . 95
Using the Operating System Media . . . . . . . . 96
Troubleshooting LCD Display Problems . . . . . . . . . 98
4 Removing and Installing Parts . . . . . . . . 99

Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Before Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . 100
Removing the Computer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
6 Contents
Inside View of Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
System Board Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Memory Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Installing Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Removing Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
PCI Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
PCI Express Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Drive Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Removing the Drive Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Removing the Drive-Panel Insert . . . . . . . . . 125
Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert . . . . . . . . . 126
Replacing the Drive Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
General Installation Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . 128
Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Removing a Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Installing a Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Adding a Second Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Installing a Hard Drive in the FlexBay . . . . . . . 134
Removing a Hard Drive From the FlexBay . . . . . 135
Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Removing a Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Installing a Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Media Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Removing a Media Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . 140
Installing a Media Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . 142
Contents 7
CD/DVD Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Removing a CD/DVD Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Installing a CD/DVD Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Processor Airflow Shroud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Removing the Processor Airflow Shroud
Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Installing the Processor Airflow Shroud
Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Fans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Removing the Processor Fan Cage . . . . . . . . 149
Installing the Processor Fan Cage . . . . . . . . . 150
Removing the Processor Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Installing the Processor Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Removing the Card Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Installing the Card Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Removing the Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Installing the Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
System Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Removing the System Board . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Installing the System Board . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

Power Supply (PSU) DC Connector Pin
Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Removing the Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Installing the Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Front I/O Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Front I/O-Panel Components . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
Removing the Front I/O Panel . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Installing the Front I/O Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
8 Contents
Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . 170
Replacing the Computer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
A Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Entering System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
System Setup Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
Boot Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Clearing Forgotten Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
Clearing CMOS Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Cleaning Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor . . . . . . . . . 191
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
CDs and DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
FCC Notices (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193

Class A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Class B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
FCC Identification Information . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

Obtaining Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Technical Support and Customer Service . . . . . 196
DellConnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Online Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Contents 9
AutoTech Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

Automated Order-Status Service . . . . . . . . . 197
Problems With Your Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit . . . . . 198
Before You Call . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Contacting Dell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
10 Contents
Finding Information
NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your
computer. Some features or media may not be available in certain countries.
NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer Drivers and Utilities Media
• Drivers for my computer Documentation and drivers are already
• My device documentation installed on your computer. You can use the
Drivers and Utilities media to reinstall
• Desktop System Software (DSS) drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 91), access your
documentation, or run the Dell Diagnostics
(see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 86).
Readme files may also be included on your
media to provide last-minute updates
about technical changes to your computer
or advanced technical reference material
for technicians and experienced users.
NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates

can be found at support.dell.com.
Finding Information 11

• Warranty information Dell™ Product Information Guide
• Terms and Conditions
(U.S. only)
• Safety instructions
• Regulatory information
• Ergonomics information
• End User License Agreement
• How to set up my computer Setup Diagram
• Service Tag and Express Service Code Service Tag and Microsoft Windows
• Microsoft Windows License Label Product Key
These labels are located on your computer.
• Use the Service Tag to identify your
computer when you use support.dell.com
or contact support.
• Enter the Express Service Code to direct

your call when contacting support.
NOTE: As an increased security measure,
the newly designed Microsoft Windows
license label incorporates a missing portion
or "hole" to discourage removal of the label.
12 Finding Information

• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints Dell Support Website — support.dell.com
and tips, articles from technicians, NOTE: Select your region or business
online courses, and frequently asked segment to view the appropriate support site.
questions
• Community — Online discussion
with other Dell customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for
components, such as the memory,
hard drive, and operating system
• Customer Care — Contact
information, service call and order
status, and warranty and repair
information
• Service and Support — Service call
status, support history, service
contract, and online discussions with
support
• Reference — Computer
documentation, details on my
computer configuration, product
specifications, and white papers
• Downloads — Certified drivers,
patches, and software updates
• Desktop System Software (DSS) — To download Desktop System Software:
If you reinstall the operating system 1 Go to support.dell.com, select your
on your computer, you should also business segment, and then enter your
reinstall the DSS utility. DSS Service Tag or product model.
automatically detects your computer 2 Select Drivers & Downloads, and then
and operating system and installs the click Go.
updates appropriate for your
3 Select your operating system and
configuration, providing critical
language, and then search for the keyword
updates for your operating system and
Desktop System Software.
support for Dell™ 3.5-inch USB floppy
® Pentium® M processors, NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface
drives, Intel
optical drives, and USB devices. DSS may vary depending on your selections.
is necessary for correct operation of
your Dell computer.
Finding Information 13

• How to use your Windows™ operating Windows Help and Support
system 1 To access Windows Help and Support:
• How to work with programs and files • In Windows Vista™, click the Windows
• How to personalize my desktop Vista Start button™ and click
Help and Support.
2 Type a word or phrase that describes your
problem, and then click the arrow icon.
3 Click the topic that describes your
problem.
4 Follow the instructions on the screen.
• How to reinstall my operating system Operating System Media

The operating system is already installed on
your computer. To reinstall your operating
system, use the Operating System media
(see "Restoring Your Operating System" on
page 94).
After you
reinstall the
operating
system, use
the Drivers
and Utilities
media to
reinstall
drivers for the
devices that
came with
your
computer.
The operating system product key label is
located on your computer.
NOTE: The color of your Operating System
CD varies according to the operating system
you ordered.
14 Finding Information
Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Front and Back View of the Computer
Front View
1
17
2
16
15
3
14 4
13
5
12
11
10
9
Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15

1 cover release latch Use this latch to remove the cover (see "Removing
the Computer Cover" on page 101).
2 storage space Use to stack CDs, place a digital camera while
transferring images to system and so on.
3 LCD display menu Use to scroll through the different menu options
available on LCD display.
4 LCD navigation Use to navigate the menu options on LCD display.
buttons Use the buttons to scroll up and down, navigate
options on left and right, or select.
5 optical drive tray eject Use to eject the drive tray of an optical drive.
button (2) NOTE: The self-tending doors on the optical drive open
automatically when the eject button is pressed.
6 vents For adequate cooling, do not block any of the vents.
NOTICE: Ensure that there is a minimum of
two inches of space between all vents and any
object near the vents.
NOTICE: Keep the vent area clean and dust-free
to ensure that the system is adequately
ventilated. Use only a dry cloth to clean the vent
area to avoid water damage to the system.
7 IEEE 1394 connector Use the IEEE 1394 connector for high-speed data
devices such as digital video cameras and external
storage devices.
8 power button Press to turn on the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not use the
power button to turn off the computer. Instead,
perform an operating system shutdown.
NOTE: The power button can also be used to wake the
system or to place it into a power-saving state (see
"Power Management Options in Windows Vista" on
page 56).
16 Setting Up and Using Your Computer

9 USB connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you
connect occasionally, such as flash memory keys,
cameras, or bootable USB devices. For more
information on booting to a USB device, see "System
Setup" on page 178.
NOTE: It is recommended that you use the back USB
connectors for devices that typically remain connected,
such as printers and keyboards.
10 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones
and most kinds of speakers.
11 microphone connector Use the microphone connector to attach a personal
computer microphone for voice or musical input into
a sound or telephony program.
12 3.5-inch flexbays (2) Can hold an optional Media Card Reader, audio
input, video input, output device with or without a
graphics accelerator device, floppy drive or an
additional hard drive.
13 5.25-inch drive bays (2) Can hold CD-RW/DVD, audio or video input or
output with or without graphics accelerator device,
DVD-RW or Blu-ray Disc™.
14 hard-drive activity light The hard drive light is on when the computer reads
data from or writes data to the hard drive. The light
may also be on when a device such as your CD player
is operating.
15 diagnostic lights(4) Use the sequence of these diagnostics lights to help
troubleshoot a problem with your computer (see
"Dell Diagnostics" on page 86).
16 network indicator light The network link light is on when a good connection
exists between a network and the computer.
17 LCD display Displays a “Now playing” screen for audio and video
applications. Allows you to navigate, select, and
launch devices available on your system.

Front I/O Connectors
1 2 3 4
1 microphone Use the microphone connector to attach a personal

connector computer microphone for voice or musical input into a
sound or telephony program.
2 headphone Use the headphone connector to attach headphones.
connector
3 USB connectors (2) Use the front USB connectors for devices that you
connect occasionally, such as flash memory keys, cameras,
or bootable USB devices. For more information on
bootable USB devices see "Boot Sequence" on page 186.
It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors
for devices that typically remain connected, such as
printers and keyboards.
4 IEEE 1394 Use the IEEE 1394 connector for high-speed data devices
connector such as digital video cameras and external storage
devices.

Back View
2
8
3
4
7 5
1 power connector Insert the power cable. The appearance of this connector
may differ from what is pictured.
2 audio connectors Connect appropriate audio devices (see "Back I/O
Connectors" on page 20).
3 USB connectors Recommended for devices that typically remain connected,
such as printers and keyboards.
4 S/PDIF (RCA) Connects to external digital stereo speakers.
5 eSATA Use it to connect to additional storage devices.

6 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI or PCI Express cards.
NOTE: Some connector slots support full-length cards.
such as digital video cameras and external storage devices.
8 network adapter NOTICE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network
connector connector.
Use the network adapter connector to attach your computer
to a network or broadband device.
Back I/O Connectors
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10
14 13 12 11
such as digital video cameras and external storage devices.
2 eSATA Use this connector to connect to external SATA storage
devices.
3 S/PDIF (RCA) Connects to external digital stereo speakers.
4 USB connectors Use the back, rear-quad USB connectors for devices that
(4)(rear quad) typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.
NOTE: It is recommended that you use the front USB
connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
joysticks, cameras, or bootable USB devices.

5 link integrity • Green — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps

light network and the computer.
• Orange — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps
network and the computer.
• Yellow — A good connection exists between a 1000-Mbps
(1-Gbps) network and the computer.
• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection
to the network.
6 network adapter NOTICE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network
connector adapter connector.
Use the network adapter connector to attach your computer
to a network or broadband device. Connect one end of a
network cable to either a network jack or your network or
broadband device, and then connect the other end of the
network cable to the network adapter connector on your
computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been
securely attached.
On computers with an additional network connector card,
use the connectors on the card and on the back of the
computer when setting up multiple network connections
(such as a separate intra- and extranet).
NOTE: It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and
connectors for your network. If you must use Category 3 wiring,
force the network speed to 10 Mbps to ensure reliable
operation.
7 network activity Flashes a yellow light when the computer is transmitting or
light receiving network data. A high volume of network traffic may
make this light appear to be in a steady "on" state.
8 surround sound Use the (black) surround sound connector to attach
connector multichannel-capable speakers.
On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
9 line-in Use the (blue) line-in connector to attach a record/playback
connector device such as a cassette player, CD player, or VCR.
10 line- Use the (green) line-out connector to attach headphones
out/headphone and most speakers with integrated amplifiers.
connector On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

11 S/PDIF Use the S/PDIF optical connector to transmit digital audio

(optical) without going through an analog audio conversion process.
12 center/subwoof Use the (orange) center/subwoofer connector to attach a
er LFE center speaker or a single subwoofer.
NOTE: The LFE (Low Frequency Effects) Audio channel, found
in digital surround sound audio schemes, carries only low
frequency information of 80 Hz and below. The LFE channel
drives a subwoofer to provide extremely low bass extension.
Systems not using subwoofers can shunt the LFE information to
the main speakers in the surround sound setup.
13 side surround Use the (gray) side surround sound connector to attach
sound multichannel-capable speakers. The side-surround output
connector provides enhanced surround audio for computers with
7.1 speakers.
14 USB 2.0 Use the back, rear-dual USB connectors for devices that
connectors (2) typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.
(rear dual) NOTE: It is recommended that you use the front USB
connectors for devices that you connect occasionally, such as
joysticks, cameras, or bootable USB devices.
Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

Installing your computer in an enclosure can restrict the airflow and impact
your computer’s performance, possibly causing it to overheat. Follow the
guidelines below when installing your computer in an enclosure:
NOTICE: The operating temperature specifications indicated in your Owner’s
Manual reflect the maximum ambient operating temperature. The room’s ambient
temperature needs to be a consideration when installing your computer in an
enclosure. For example, if the ambient room temperature is at 25° C (77° F),
depending on your computer’s specifications, you only have 5° to 10° C (9° to 18° F)
temperature margin before you reach your computer’s maximum operating
temperature. For details about your computer’s specifications, see "Specifications"
on page 173.

• Leave a 10.2 centimeter (4 inch) minimum clearance on all vented sides of

the computer to permit the airflow required for proper ventilation.
• If your enclosure has doors, they need to be of a type that allows at least
30% airflow through the enclosure (front and back).
• If your computer is installed in a corner on a desk or under a desk, leave at

least 5.1 centimeters (2 inch) of clearance from the back of the computer
to the wall to permit the airflow required for proper ventilation.

• Do not install your computer in an enclosure that does not allow airflow.
Restricting the airflow impacts your computer’s performance, possibly
causing it to overheat.
Connecting Monitors
CAUTION: Before you perform any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, do not overload an
electrical outlet, power strip, or convenience receptacle. The total ampere rating
of all products plugged into an electrical outlet, power strip, or other receptacle
should not exceed 80 percent of the branch circuit rating.
NOTE: Your video card has three different ports: a DVI (White) port, a DVI-I (Black)
port , and a VGA (Blue) port.

1
2
3
1 DVI (white) connector 2 TV-OUT connector 3 VGA (blue) connector
Connecting a Monitor (Without an Adapter)

1 Save and close all open files and exit all open programs.
2 Shut down the operating system:
• In Windows Vista™, click the Windows Vista Start button™ click
the arrow in the lower-right corner of the Start menu as shown below,
and then click Shut Down.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process
is complete.
3 Ensure that the computer and all attached devices are turned off. If your
computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you
shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for
about 4 seconds to turn them off.Disconnect the computer and all
attached devices from their electrical outlets.

4 Connect the DVI or VGA connector of your monitor to the appropriate

connector on the back of the computer:
To connect a monitor with a DVI connector, use the (white) DVI port on
your computer.
To connect a monitor with a VGA connector, use the (blue) VGA port on
your computer.
NOTE: To connect a monitor with a VGA connector to the DVI-I (black) port on
your computer, use a dongle.
Connecting a Monitor (With an Adapter)

NOTE: In order to connect a monitor with a VGA connector to the DVI port on the
back of your computer, a DVI-to-VGA adapter is required.
• In Windows Vista, click Start , click the arrow in the lower-right
corner of the Start menu as shown below, and then click Shut Down.
is complete.

about 4 seconds to turn them off.
4 Connect the DVI-to-VGA adapter to the VGA connector on your monitor,
and then connect the other end of the adapter to the (white) DVI port on
the back of the computer.
1
3
1 DVI (white) connector 2 DVI-to-VGA adapter 3 TV-OUT connector

(optional)

Connecting Two or More Monitors

NOTE: Your video card has one DVI (white) port, one DVI-I (black) port, and one
VGA (blue) port.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process is
complete.
4 Connect two or more monitors to the appropriate DVI or VGA ports on
the back of the computer.
NOTE: In order to connect a monitor with a VGA connector to the DVI port on
the back of your computer, a DVI-to-VGA adapter is required.
To connect two or more monitors directly to the DVI or VGA ports on your
computer, see "Connecting a Monitor (Without an Adapter)" on page 25.
To connect the VGA connectors of one or more monitors to the DVI
port(s) on your computer, see "Connecting a Monitor (With an Adapter)"
on page 26.
NOTE: To connect a monitor with a VGA connector to the DVI-I (black) port on
your computer, use a dongle.
5 Change the display settings to support multiple monitors (see "Changing
the Display Settings" on page 30).

Connecting a TV
NOTE: If you are connecting a TV to your computer, you may connect only one
monitor (VGA or DVI) in addition to the TV.
NOTE: See the documentation that came with your TV to ensure that you properly
configure and connect the TV.
To connect a TV to your computer, an S-video cable is required. If you do not
have an S-video cable, you may purchase one at most consumer electronics
stores. An S-video cable is not included with your computer.
is complete.
4 Disconnect the computer and all attached devices from their electrical
outlets.
5 Connect one end of the S-video cable to the TV-OUT connector on the
back of the computer.
6 Connect the other end of the S-video cable to the S-video input connector
on your TV.
7 Connect one monitor, as needed, with a DVI or VGA connector as
described in "Connecting Monitors" on page 24.

Changing the Display Settings

1 After you connect the monitor(s) or TV, turn on the computer.
The Microsoft® Windows® desktop displays on the primary monitor.
2 Enable extended desktop mode in the display settings. In extended
desktop mode, you can drag objects from one screen to the other,
effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.
About Your RAID Configuration

This section provides an overview of the RAID configuration you may have
selected when you purchased your computer. There are several RAID
configurations available in the computer industry for different types of uses.
Your computer supports RAID level 0 and RAID level 1. A RAID level 0
configuration is recommended for high-performance programs or gaming,
and a RAID level 1 configuration is recommended for users who require a
high level of data integrity. For example, those in the digital photography and
audio industries.
NOTE: RAID levels do not represent a hierarchy. A RAID level 1 configuration is not
inherently better or worse than a RAID level 0 configuration.
The drives in a RAID configuration should be the same size in order to ensure
that the larger drive does not contain unallocated (and therefore unusable)
space.
RAID Level 0 Configuration

NOTICE: Because RAID level 0 configurations provide no data redundancy, a
failure of one drive results in the loss of all data (the data on the remaining drive is
also inaccessible). Therefore, ensure that you perform regular backups when you
use a RAID level 0 configuration.
A RAID level 0 configuration uses a storage technique known as data striping
to provide a high data access rate. Data striping is a method of writing
consecutive segments, or stripes, of data sequentially across the physical
drives to create a large virtual drive. Data striping allows one of the drives to
read data while the other drive is searching for and reading the next block.

serial ATA RAID

configured for
RAID level 0
segment 1 segment 2
segment 3 segment 4
segment 5 segment 6
hard drive 1 hard drive 2
Another advantage of a RAID level 0 configuration is that it utilizes the full

storage capacities of the drives. For example, two 120-GB drives combine to
provide 240 GB of hard drive space on which to store data.
NOTE: In a RAID level 0 configuration, the size of the configuration is equal to the
size of the smallest drive multiplied by the number of drives in the configuration.
RAID Level 1 Configuration

A RAID level 1 configuration uses a data-redundancy storage technique
known as mirroring to enhance data integrity. When data is written to the
primary drive, the data is also duplicated, or mirrored, on the second drive in
the configuration. RAID level 1 sacrifices high data-access rates for its data
redundancy advantages.

serial ATA RAID

configured for
RAID level 1
segment 1 segment 1 duplicated

hard drive 1 hard drive 2
If a drive failure occurs, subsequent read and write operations are directed to
the surviving drive. A replacement drive can then be rebuilt using the data
from the surviving drive.
NOTE: In a RAID level 1 configuration, the size of the configuration is equal to the
size of the smallest drive in the configuration.
Configuring Your Computer for RAID

Your computer can be configured for RAID, even if you did not select a RAID
configuration when the computer was purchased. You must have at least two
hard drives installed in your computer to set up a RAID configuration. For an
explanation of RAID levels, see "About Your RAID Configuration" on page 30.
For instructions on how to install a hard drive, see "Installing a Hard Drive" on
page 130.
You can use one of two methods to configure RAID hard drive volumes.
The first method uses the Intel® RAID Option ROM utility and is performed
before you install the operating system onto the hard drive. The second
method uses the Intel® Application Accelerator and is performed after you
have installed the operating system.
Both methods require that you set your computer to RAID-enabled mode
before beginning any of the RAID configuration procedures in this document.

Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode

NOTICE: Back up any data you want to keep before entering the RAID-Enabled
mode. The RAID configuration procedure can result in loss of all data from the
hard drives.
1 Enter system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 179).
2 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Drives, then press <Enter>.
3 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight SATA Operation, then
press <Enter>.
4 Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight RAID On, press <Enter>,
and then press <Esc>.
NOTE: For more information about RAID options, see "System Setup Options"
on page 180.
5 Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight Save/Exit, and then press
<Enter> to exit system setup and resume the boot process.
Using the Intel® RAID Option ROM Utility

NOTE: Hard drives of any size may be used to create a RAID configuration using the
Intel RAID Option ROM utility. Ideally, however, the drives should be of equal size to
avoid unallocated or unused space. For an explanation of RAID levels, see "About
Your RAID Configuration" on page 30.
Creating a RAID Level 0 Configuration

NOTICE: The following procedure will result in the loss of all data on your hard
drives. Back up any data you want to keep before continuing.
NOTE: Use the following procedure only if you are reinstalling your operating
system. Do not use the following procedure to migrate an existing storage
configuration to RAID level 0 configuration.
1 Set your computer to RAID-enabled mode (see "Setting Your Computer to
RAID-Enabled Mode" on page 33).
2 Press <Ctrl><I> when you are prompted to enter the Intel® RAID
Option ROM utility.
3 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Create RAID Volume,
then press <Enter>.
4 Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default name, then press <Enter>.

5 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select RAID0 (Stripe), then press
<Enter>.
6 If there are more than two hard drives available, press the up- and down-arrow
keys and spacebar to select the two or three drives you want to use to make
up your configuration, then press <Enter>.
NOTE: Select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to store
on the RAID volume. If you do not know the average file size, choose 128 KB as your
strip size.
7 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to change the strip size, then press
<Enter>.
8 Select the desired capacity for the volume, then press <Enter>.
The default value is the maximum available size.
9 Press <Enter> to create the volume.
10 Press <Y> to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.
11 Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main
Intel® RAID Option ROM utility screen.
12 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to select Exit, and then press <Enter>.
13 Install the operating system. See "Reinstalling Windows Vista" on page 97.

2 Press <Ctrl><I> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option
ROM utility.
3 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Create RAID Volume, then
press <Enter>.
4 Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default name, then press
<Enter>.
5 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select RAID1 (Mirror), then press
<Enter>.
6 If there are more than two hard drives available, press the up- and down-arrow
keys and spacebar to select the two drives you want to use to make up your
volume, then press <Enter>.

7 Select the desired capacity for the volume, then press <Enter>.
The default value is the maximum available size.
8 Press <Enter> to create the volume.
9 Press <Y> to confirm that you want to create the RAID volume.
10 Confirm that the correct volume configuration is displayed on the main
Intel RAID Option ROM utility screen.
11 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select Exit, and then press <Enter>.
12 Install the operating system (see "Reinstalling Windows Vista" on
page 97).
Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTICE: The following procedure will result in the loss of all data on the hard
drives in your RAID configuration. Back up any data you want to keep before
continuing.
NOTICE: If your computer currently boots to RAID and you delete the RAID volume
in the Intel RAID Option ROM utility, your computer will become unbootable.
1 Press <Ctrl><I> when you are prompted to enter the Intel RAID Option
ROM utility.
2 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Delete RAID Volume, then
press <Enter>.
3 Use the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the RAID volume you want
to delete, then press <Delete>.
4 Press <Y> to confirm the deletion of the RAID volume.
5 Press <Esc> to exit the Intel RAID Option ROM utility.

Using the Intel® Application Accelerator

If you already have one hard drive with the operating system installed on it,
and you want to add a second hard drive then reconfigure both drives into a
RAID volume without losing the existing operating system or data, use the
migrating option (see "Migrating to a RAID Level 0 Configuration" on
page 38 or "Migrating to a RAID Level 1 Configuration" on page 39). Create a
RAID level 0 volume or RAID level 1 volume only when:
• You are adding two new drives to an existing single-drive computer
(with the operating system installed on the single drive), and you want to
configure the two new drives into a RAID volume.
• You already have a two-hard drive computer configured into a volume, but
you still have some space left on the volume that you want to designate as
a second RAID volume.

NOTICE: The following procedure will result in the loss of all data on the hard drives
in your RAID configuration. Back up any data you want to keep before continuing.
2 Click Start and point to Programs→Intel(R) Application Accelerator→
Intel Matrix Storage Manager to launch the Intel® Storage Utility.
NOTE: If you do not see an Actions menu option, you have not yet set your
computer to RAID-enabled mode (see "Setting Your Computer to RAID-
Enabled Mode" on page 33).
3 On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume to launch the Create
RAID Volume Wizard, then click Next.
4 On the Select Volume Location screen, click the first hard drive you want
to include in your RAID level 0 volume, then click the right arrow.
5 Click to add a second hard drive, then click Next.
To add a third hard drive in your RAID level 0 volume, click the right arrow
and click on the third drive until three drives appear in the Selected
window, and then click Next.

6 In the Specify Volume Size window, click the Volume Size desired, then
click Next.
7 Click Finish to create the volume, or click Back to make changes.

NOTICE: The following procedure will result in the loss of all data on the hard
drives in your RAID configuration. Back up any data you want to keep before
continuing.
2 Click the Start button and point to Programs→Intel(R) Application
Accelerator→Intel Matrix Storage Manager to launch the Intel® Storage
Utility.
3 On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume to launch the Create
RAID Volume Wizard.
4 Click Next at the first screen.
5 Confirm the volume name, select RAID 1 as the RAID level, and then
click Next to continue.
6 On the Select Volume Location screen, click the first hard drive you want
to use to create your RAID level 0 volume, then click the right arrow. Click
to add a second hard drive until two drives appear in the Selected window,
and then click Next.
7 In the Specify Volume Size window, select the Volume Size desired, then
click Next.
8 Click Finish to create the volume, or click Back to make changes.
9 Follow Microsoft Windows procedures for creating a partition on the new
RAID volume.

Deleting a RAID Volume

NOTE: While this procedure deletes the RAID 1 volume, it also splits the RAID 1
volume into two non-RAID hard drives with a partition, and leaves any existing data
files intact. Deleting a RAID 0 volume, however, destroys all data on the volume.
Utility.
2 Right-click the Volume icon of the RAID volume you want to delete, then
select Delete Volume.
3 On the Delete RAID Volume Wizard screen, click Next.
4 Highlight the RAID volume you want to delete in the Available box, click
the right-arrow button to move the highlighted RAID volume into the
Selected box, and then click Next.
5 Click Finish to delete the volume.
Migrating to a RAID Level 0 Configuration

2 Click the Start button and point to All Programs→Intel(R) Application
Utility.
3 On the Actions menu, select Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard
Drive to launch the Migration Wizard.
4 Click Next on the Migration Wizard screen.
5 Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default name.
6 From the drop-down box, select RAID 0 as the RAID level.
7 Select the appropriate strip size from the drop-down box, and then
click Next.
NOTE: Select the strip size closest to the size of the average file you want to
store on the RAID volume. If you do not know the average file size, choose 128
KB as your strip size.

8 On the Select Source Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive from
which you want to migrate, and click Next.
NOTE: The source hard drive should be the hard drive containing the data or
operating system files that you want to keep on the RAID volume.
9 On the Select Member Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive(s)
to select the member drive(s) to span the stripe array, then click Next.
10 On the Specify Volume Size screen, select the Volume Size you want,
then click Next.
NOTICE: The next step will result in the loss of all data on the member drive.
11 Click Finish to start migrating, or click Back to make changes. You can use
your computer normally during the migration process.
Migrating to a RAID Level 1 Configuration

2 Click the Start button and point to All Programs→Intel(R) Application
Utility.
3 On the Actions menu, click Create RAID Volume From Existing Hard
Drive to launch the Migration Wizard.
4 Click Next on the first Migration Wizard screen.
5 Enter a RAID volume name or accept the default name.
6 From the drop-down box, select RAID 1 as the RAID level.
7 On the Select Source Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive from
which you want to migrate, and click Next.
NOTE: The source hard drive should be the hard drive containing the data or
operating system files that you want to keep on the RAID volume.
8 On the Select Member Hard Drive screen, double-click the hard drive to
select the member drive that you want to act as the mirror in the
configuration, then click Next.

9 On the Specify Volume Size screen, select the volume size you want, then
click Next.
NOTICE: The next step will result in the loss of all data on the member drive.
10 Click Finish to start migrating, or click Back to make changes. You can use
your computer normally during migration process.
Creating a Spare Hard Drive

A spare hard drive may be created with a RAID level 1 configuration. The
spare hard drive will not be recognized by the operating system, but you will
be able to see the spare drive from within Disk Manager or the Intel RAID
Option ROM utility. When a member of the RAID level 1 configuration fails,
the computer automatically rebuilds the mirror configuration using the spare
hard drive as the failed member’s replacement.
To mark a drive as a spare hard drive:
Utility.
2 Right-click the hard drive you want to mark as a spare hard drive.
3 Click Mark as Spare.
To remove a drive as a spare hard drive:
1 Right-click the spare hard drive icon.
2 Click Reset Hard Drive to Non-RAID.
Rebuilding a Degraded RAID Level 1 Configuration

If your computer does not have a spare hard drive, and the computer has reported
a degraded RAID level 1 volume, you can manually rebuild the computer’s
redundancy mirror to a new hard drive by performing the following steps:
Utility.
2 Right-click the available hard drive to which you want to rebuild the RAID
level 1 volume, then click Rebuild to this Disk.
You can use your computer while the computer is rebuilding the RAID level 1
volume.

Dell DataSafe (Optional)

Dell DataSafe is a solution to help you protect your data against unfortunate
events such as data loss from system crashes, hard drive failures, software
corruption, viruses, and other accidents. Using Intel technology, your computer
has a robust level of data protection out of the factory. With Dell DataSafe,
you will have a selected area on your system that automatically stores periodic
copies of your computer's hard drive data. Not only does Dell DataSafe help
you to store and protect your valuable data such as photos, music, videos,
files, and more, it also helps restore your computer and your data in the event
of a failure. The included software can give you the power to roll back your
system to a healthy state after a system problem, easily retrieve deleted files,
and recover individual files or an entire hard drive, and the Intel Matrix
Storage Console (RAID) allows for continued functionality in the case of a
single hard drive failure.
Intel® Viiv™ Technology (Optional)

Intel Viiv technology is a technology aimed at the digital home enthusiast
that includes:
• A BIOS that supports Intel Quick Resume Technology
• Device drivers
This technology allows the user’s system to quickly return to an active state
after non-use.
Using Intel Viiv Quick Resume Technology (QRT)

When running in the Intel Viiv QRT mode, your power button is used as a
quick on/off feature. Pressing the power button once causes the display to go
blank and the audio to mute. In this mode, the computer is still operating as
indicated by the power button indicator and diagnostic lights 1, 2, and 4
being lit. Also, you may notice that the hard drive indicator may blink when
the hard drive is being accessed by an external device.
To resume normal computer operation, briefly press the power button, press
any key on the keyboard or move the mouse.

Enabling the QRT Feature in System Setup

The QRT drivers must be installed before the Quick Resume feature becomes
active. The QRT drivers are installed when this option is ordered. Also, Quick
Resume is enabled in system setup when this feature is ordered.
2 Press the arrow keys to highlight the Power Management menu option,
then press <Enter> to access the menu.
3 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight the Quick Resume option,
then press <Enter> to access the menu.
4 Press the left- and right-arrow keys to highlight the On option, and then
press <Enter> to enable the Quick Resume feature.
Enabling the QRT Feature in the Operating System

1 Click the Start button, then click Control Panel.
2 Click the Away tab.
3 Ensure that the check boxes for Enable away mode and Options are checked.
4 Click the Advanced tab.
5 From the When I press the power button on my computer drop-down
menu, select Do Nothing.
6 From the When I press the sleep button on my computer drop-down
menu, select Do Nothing.
Using Multimedia
Playing CDs or DVDs
NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD/DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep
the tray closed when you are not using the drive.
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing CDs or DVDs.
1 Press the eject button on the right corner of the drive.
2 Place the disc, label side up, in the center of the tray.
3 Press the eject button or gently push in the tray.

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 media.
A CD player includes the following basic buttons:
Play
Move backward within the current track
Pause
Move forward within the current track
Stop
Go to the previous track
Eject
Go to the next track
A DVD player includes the following basic buttons:
Stop
Restart the current chapter
Play
Fast forward
Pause
Fast reverse
Advance a single frame while in pause mode

Go to the next title or chapter

Continuously play the current title or chapter
Go to the previous title or chapter
Eject
These controls may not exist on all players in the system. For more
information on playing CDs, DVDs, or BDs, click Help on the CD or DVD
player (if available).
Copying Media
This section applies only to computers that have a DVD+/-RW drive or a BD-RE
drive.
NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when copying media.
NOTE: The types of optical drives offered by Dell may vary by country.
The following instructions explain how to make a copy of a CD or a DVD
using Roxio Creator Plus, and a BD using CyberLink Power DVD 7.0.
The DVD drives and BD drives installed in Dell computers do not support
HD-DVD media.
How to Copy a CD or DVD

The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or
DVD using Roxio Creator Plus - Dell Edition. You can also use Roxio Creator
Plus for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on
your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Roxio Creator
Plus, and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the
window.
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 and read
DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW and DVD+R DL (dual layer) media, but cannot
write to and may not read DVD-RAM or DVD-R DL media.

NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied
using Roxio Creator Plus.
1 Open Roxio Creator Plus.
2 Under the Copy tab, click Disc Copy.
3 To copy the CD or DVD:
• If you have one CD/DVD drive, ensure that the settings are correct, and
then click Disc Copy. The computer reads your source CD or DVD
and copies the data to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive.
When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive and
click OK.
• If you have two CD/DVD drives, select the drive into which you have
inserted your source CD or DVD, and then click Disc Copy. The
computer copies the data from the source CD or DVD to the blank
CD or DVD.
Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD
that you have created automatically ejects.
How to Copy a Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) Media

For information on how to use the BD media, refer to the manual that
accompanies the product.
Using Blank CDs and DVDs

CD-RW drives can write to CD recording media only (including high-speed
CD-RW media) while DVD-writable drives can write to both CD and DVD
recording media.
Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After the
maximum storage capacity of a CD-R is reached, you cannot write to that
CD-R again (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank
CD-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on the CD later.
Blank DVD+/-Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of data.
After you create a DVD+/-R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc
again if the disc is finalized or closed during the final stage of the disc creation
process. Use blank DVD+/-RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update
information on the disc later.

CD-Writable Drives
Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No
CD-RW Yes Yes Yes
DVD-Writable Drives
Media Type Read Write Rewritable

CD-R Yes Yes No
CD-RW Yes Yes Yes
DVD+R Yes Yes No
DVD-R Yes Yes No
DVD+RW Yes Yes Yes
DVD-RW Yes Yes Yes
DVD+R DL Yes Yes No
DVD-R DL Maybe No No
Helpful Tips
• Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or
CD-RW only after you start Roxio Creator Plus and open a Creator project.
• Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos.
CD-RWs may not play in many home or car stereos.
• You cannot create audio DVDs with Roxio Creator Plus.
• Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that
have MP3 software installed.
• Commercially available DVD players used in home theater systems may
not support all available DVD formats. 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 to finalize the recording.

• Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with
CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on
the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank CD-RWs to test music
file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R.
• See the Sonic website at sonic.com for additional information.
Using a Media Card Reader

Use the media card reader to transfer data directly to your computer.
The media card reader supports the following memory types:
• xD-Picture card
• SmartMedia card (SMC)
• CompactFlash card Type I and II (CF I/II)
• MicroDrive card
• SecureDigital card (SD)
• MiniSD card
• MultiMediaCard (MMC)
• Reduced-size MultiMediaCard (RS-MMC)
• Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro/MS Duo/MS Pro Duo)
For information on installing a media card reader, see "Installing a Media
Card Reader" on page 142.

1
2
1 xD-Picture card and SmartMedia 2 Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro/MS

Card (SMC) Duo/MS Pro Duo)
3 Secure Digital card 4 CompactFlash card Type I and II
(SD/miniSD)/MultiMedia-Card (CF I/II) and MicroDrive card
(MMC/RS-MMC)
1 Inspect the media card to determine the proper orientation for insertion.
2 Slide the media card into the appropriate slot of the media card reader
until it is completely seated in the connector.
If you encounter resistance, remove the card, check for proper orientation, and
then try again.

Understanding the Media Xcelerator™ (Optional)

The Dell Media Xcelerator™ is an internal USB 2.0 bus-powered device that
increases the speed and performance of MPEG transcoding and transrating
for various 3rd party applications supporting the Sonic DVD engine.
The Xcelerator™ device enables faster format conversion and facilitates
resolution changes to MPEG-2 and DVD video streams. The device will allow
MPEG2 or DVD based format conversions and fit to disk operations to be
completed in significantly less time. A built-in, dedicated processor ensures
significantly improved system availability and speed. The Xcelerator also
supports MPEG-2 and DVD format stream conversion to low bit-rate MPEG-4
formats for portable video devices.
Features supported include:
• Improved system availability through CPU offloading to Xcelerator.
• Quicker DVD creation with improved fit to disk capability.
• Transcode High Definition MPEG-2 video clips to MPEG-2 or MPEG-4
standard definition
• Faster conversions of movies into PC or PMP formats
• Transrate MPEG-2 video clips to a lower bit rate to fit onto a DVD, CD, or
other media
• Higher transcoded video quality at similar bit rates
For more information on the Xcelerator, see the Dell Media Xcelerator™
User’s Guide available on the Help and Support Center on your system, or
the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
To access Help and Support Center, click Start→Help and Support.
NOTE: The Dell Media Xcelerator is an optional feature and will not be present on
your system if you did not order it.

Understanding Windows® SideShow™ and the

LCD display
Your LCD display device is located at the top of the system.
Powered by Windows Sideshow technology,the LCD display device is
designed to provide quick to access to information available on a computer
running Windows Vista.
SideShow technology uses gadgets, which are add-in programs, to extend
information from the computer onto devices such as the LCD display.
Gadgets allow you to view information from your computer regardless of
whether it is on, off, or sleeping.
Some of the default gadgets available on the LCD allow you to browse web
pictures, view photos stored on your system, play or browse audio and video
files, set reminders and alarms, monitor PC settings, and set a real-time count
down clock.
1 2
5 4
1 network indicator light 2 menu button 3 navigation and

selection buttons
4 LCD display screen 5 hard-drive activity 6 diagnostic lights
light (4 nos)

Configuring the LCD display

The LCD display is configured to start whenever your system is powered on.
However, the default
configuration can be modified by the user.
To disable LCD Display

1 Enter system setup (see"Entering System Setup" on page 179).
NOTE: The system setup screen displays current or changeable configuration
information for your computer.
2 On the system setup screen navigate to LCD display and change settings
to Off.
3 Exit setup.
NOTE: The LCD display remains inactive when the system is next powered on.
To enable LCD Display

NOTE: The screen displays current or changeable configuration information for
your computer.
2 On the system setup screen navigate to LCD display and change settings to On.
3 Exit setup.
NOTE: The LCD display simultaneously starts when the system is next powered on.
Adding Gadgets To LCD Display Menu

The LCD display menu includes a list of all the gadgets shipped with your
system. It also allows you to remove existing gadgets from the list or add them
back. All the gadgets available on the LCD display can be viewed with the help
of the Menu button and activated with the help of the Navigation buttons.
To add new gadgets to the LCD display

1 On your computer, go to Start→Control Panel→Windows Sideshow.
A dialog with the list of all gadgets opens.
2 Check the boxes for all gadgets you want to add to the LCD display menu.
3 Click Save.

Setting Up a Printer
NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the
computer.
See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information,
including how to:
• Obtain and install updated drivers.
• Connect the printer to the computer.
• Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge.
For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the
printer manufacturer.
Printer Cable
Your printer connects to your computer with either a USB cable or a parallel
cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a
cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer and computer.
If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your
computer, the cable may arrive in the computer’s shipping box.
Connecting a USB Printer

NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on.
1 Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so.
2 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and
the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way.

1 USB connector on 2 USB connector on 3 USB printer cable

computer printer
3 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer.

4 Your operating system includes a printer wizard to help you install the
printer driver:
Click the Windows Vista Start button™ and click Network →Add a
printer to start the Add Printer Wizard.
5 Install the printer driver if necessary. See "Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 91 and the documentation that came with your printer.

Connecting to the Internet

NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country.
To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an
Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the
following Internet connection options:
• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your
existing telephone line or cellular telephone service. With a DSL
connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the
same line simultaneously.
• Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access
through your local cable TV line.
• Satellite modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access
through a satellite television system.
• Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line.
Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable (or satellite)
modem connections.
• Wireless LAN connections that provide Internet access using Bluetooth®
wireless technology.
If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem
connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up
your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem
connection, contact your ISP or cellular telephone service for setup instructions.
Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut:
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an
Internet connection with a different ISP, perform the steps in the following
section.
NOTE: If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem,
and Internet Problems" on page 63. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have
successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact
your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later.
Windows Vista™
NOTE: Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, the Connect to
the Internet wizard can help you get one.
1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2 Click the Windows Vista Start button™ and click Control Panel
3 Under Network and Internet, click Connect to the Internet.
The Connect to the Internet window appears.
4 Click either Broadband (PPPoE) or Dial-up, depending on how you want
to connect:
• Choose Broadband if you will use a DSL, satellite modem, cable TV
modem, or Bluetooth wireless technology connection.
• Choose Dial-up if you will use a dial-up modem or ISDN.
NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose
or contact your ISP.
5 Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information
provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
Network Setup Wizard

The Microsoft Windows operating system provides a Network Setup Wizard
to guide you through the process of sharing files, printers, or an Internet
connection between computers in a home or small office.
1 Click Start and then click Connect to→Set up a connection or
network.
2 Select an option under Choose a connection option.
3 Click Next, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

Transferring Information to a New Computer

You can use your operating system "wizards" to help you transfer files and
other data from one computer to another—for example, from an old
computer to a new computer. For instructions, see the following section that
corresponds to the operating system your computer is running.
1 Click Start →Transfer files and settings→Start Windows Easy
Transfer.
2 In the User Account Control dialog box, click Continue.
3 Click Start a new transfer or Continue a transfer in progress.
4 Follow the instructions provided on the screen by the Windows Easy
Transfer wizard.
Power Management Options in Windows Vista

The Microsoft Vista power management features can reduce the amount of
electricity your computer uses when it is on and you are not using it. You can
reduce power to just the monitor or the hard drive; or you can use sleep mode
or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire computer. When the
computer exits from a power conservation mode, it returns to the operating
state it was in prior to entering the mode.
Sleep Mode
Sleep mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive
after a predetermined period of inactivity (a time-out). When the computer
exits sleep mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before
entering sleep mode.
To enter sleep mode in Windows Vista, click Start , click the arrow in the
lower-right corner of the Start menu, and then click Sleep.
To exit sleep mode, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.
Hybrid Sleep
Hybrid Sleep emulates the Sleep Mode but stores info in RAM to hard drive
so that there is no loss of data in case of power loss.
Hybrid Sleep is enabled on your system by default.

Hibernate Mode
Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on
the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the
computer exits hibernate mode, it returns to the same operating state it was
in before entering hibernate mode.
To manually enter hibernate mode in Windows Vista, click Start , click the
arrow in the lower-right corner of the Start menu, and then click Hibernate.
NOTE: If Hybrid Sleep is ON then Hibernate will no longer appear on the shutdown
menu in Vista.
• To enable hibernation, click Start→open Search box and type
powercfg.exe /hibernate ON→press Ctrl+Shift+Enter.
• To disable hibernation, click Start→open Search box and type
powercfg.exe /hibernate Off→press Ctrl+Shift+Enter.
Configuring Power Management Settings

You can use the Windows Power Options Properties to configure the power
management settings on your computer.
To access Power Options Properties, click Start →Control Panel→
System and Maintenance→Power Options.


Optimizing for Greater Performance

Understanding Intel™ SpeedStep® Technology
SpeedStep technology controls your computer's processor performance
automatically, dynamically adjusting the operating frequency and voltage,
according to the task at hand. When an application does not require full
performance, significant amounts of power can be saved. Performance is
designed to still be responsive, with maximum processor performance being
delivered when required, and automatic power savings when possible.
Windows Vista™ automatically sets Intel Speedstep technologies in the
Dell Recommended, Balanced, and Power Saver power plans. It is disabled in
the High Performance power plan.
Optimizing for Greater Performance 59

60 Optimizing for Greater Performance

Troubleshooting
Solving Problems
Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer:
• If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the
installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.
• If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly
connected.
• If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message.
This message may help support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).
• If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default
view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic
view.
Coin-Cell Battery Problems

CAUTION: There is a danger of a new coin battery exploding if it is incorrectly
installed. Replace the coin battery only with the same or equivalent type
recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the
manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
R E P L A C E T H E C O I N - C E L L B A T T E R Y — If you have to repeatedly reset time and date
information after turning on the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays
during start-up, replace the battery (see "Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery" on
page 170). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see "Contacting
Dell" on page 200).
Troubleshooting 61
Drive Problems
ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE —
• Click the Windows Vista Start button™ and click Computer.
If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for
and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
TE S T T H E D R I V E —
• Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original drive is defective.
• Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.
C L E A N T H E D R I V E O R D I S K — See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 191.
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS
R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R — See "Troubleshooting Software and
Hardware Problems in the Microsoft Windows Vista™ Operating System" on page 93.
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 86.
Optical drive problems

NOTE: High-speed optical drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which
does not indicate a defect in the drive or the media.
NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all
DVD titles work in all DVD drives.
ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL —
• Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
• Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.
• Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.
C H E C K T H E S P E A K E R S A N D S U B W O O F E R — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on
page 72.
Problems writing to an optical drive

C L O S E O T H E R P R O G R A M S — The optical drive must receive a steady stream of data
during the writing process. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all
programs before you write to the optical.
TU R N O F F S T A N D B Y M O D E I N W I N D O W S B E F O R E W R I T I N G T O A D I S C — See
"Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 57 or search for the keyword
standby in Windows Help and Support for information on power management modes.
62 Troubleshooting
Hard drive problems

RUN CHECK DISK —
1 Click Windows Vista Start and click Computer.
2 Right-click Local Disk C:.
3 Click Properties →Tools→Check Now.
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.
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

NOTE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not
operate while it is connected to a digital telephone network.
NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network adapter connector (see
"Back I/O Connectors" on page 20).
C H E C K T H E M I C R O S O F T O U T L O O K ® E X P R E S S S E C U R I T Y S E T T I N G S — If you cannot
open your e-mail attachments:
1 In Outlook Express, click Tools→Options→Security.
2 Click Do not allow attachments to remove the checkmark, as needed.
CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION
CHECK THE TELEPHONE JACK
CONNECT THE MODEM DIRECTLY TO THE TELEPHONE WALL JACK
USE A DIFFERENT TELEPHONE LINE —
• Verify that the telephone line is connected to the jack on the modem (the jack has
either a green label or a connector-shaped icon next to it).
• Ensure that you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector into the modem.
• Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone, then
listen for a dial tone.
• If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine,
fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, bypass them and use the telephone to
connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. If you are using a line that is
3 meters (10 feet) or more in length, try a shorter one.
Troubleshooting 63
R U N T H E M O D E M D I A G N O S T I C TO O L —
1 Click Start →All Programs→Modem Diagnostic Tool.
2 Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems.
Modem diagnostics are not available on all computers.
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E M O D E M I S C O M M U N I C A T I N G W I T H W I N D O W S —
1 Click Start →Control Panel→Hardware and Sound→Phone and Modem
Options→Modems.
2 Click the COM port for your modem→Properties →Diagnostics→Query Modem
to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows.
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
E N S U R E T H A T Y O U A R E C O N N E C T E D T O T H E I N T E R N E T — Ensure that you have
subscribed to an Internet provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open,
click File. If Work Offline has a checkmark next to it, click the checkmark to remove it
and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service provider.
Error Messages
If the error message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating
system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? “ <
> | — Do not use these characters in filenames.
A R E Q U I R E D . D L L F I L E W A S N O T F O U N D — The program that you are trying to open
is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program:
1 Click Start →Control Panel→Programs→Programs and Features.
2 Select the program you want to remove.
3 Click Uninstall.
4 See the program documentation for installation instructions.
drive letter : \ I S N O T A C C E S S I B L E . T H E D E V I C E I S N O T R E A D Y — The drive
cannot read the disk. Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
I N S E R T B O O T A B L E M E D I A — Insert a bootable floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
N O N - S YS T E M D I S K E R R O R — Remove the floppy disk from the floppy drive and
restart your computer.
64 Troubleshooting
NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. CLOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY

A G A I N — Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. In some
cases, you may have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, run
the program that you want to use first.
O P E R A T I N G S YS T E M N O T F O U N D — Ensure that there is no non-bootable floppy or
USB key attached during system power on.
IEEE 1394a Device Problems

NOTE: Your computer supports only IEEE 1394a standard.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E C A B L E F O R T H E IEEE 1394 A D E V I C E I S P R O P E R L Y I N S E R T E D
INTO THE DEVICE AND INTO THE CONNECTOR ON THE COMPUTER
E N S U R E T H A T T H E IEEE 1394 A D E V I C E I S E N A B L E D I N S YS T E M S E T U P — See

"System Setup Options" on page 180.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E IEEE 1394 A D E V I C E I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S —
1 Click Start →Control Panel→Hardware and Sound.
2 Click Device Manager.
If your IEEE 1394a device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.
I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A D E L L IEEE 1394 A D E V I C E — Contact Dell
(see "Contacting Dell" on page 200).
I F Y O U H A V E P R O B L E M S W I T H A N IEEE 1394 A D E V I C E N O T P R O V I D E D B Y D E L L —
Contact the IEEE 1394a device manufacturer.
Keyboard Problems
CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE —
• Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.
• Shut down the computer (see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 100),
reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and
then restart the computer.
• Ensure that the cable is not damaged or frayed and check cable connectors for bent or
broken pins. Straighten any bent pins.
• Remove any keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.
Troubleshooting 65
TE S T T H E K E Y B O A R D — Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, then

try using the keyboard.
W O R K I N G W I T H A N U S B K E Y B O A R D — During the first system boot, the operating
system takes time to configure the USB keyboard. Reboot the system to configure the
keyboard faster.
U S B K E Y B O A R D O R M O U S E F A I L U R E — Connect the device to a different USB port
and check if it starts working.
Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up

C H E C K T H E D I A G N O S T I C L I G H T S — See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 76.
ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO
THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET
The computer stops responding

NOTICE: You may lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system
shutdown.
TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on
your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least
8 to 10 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your computer.
A program stops responding

END THE PROGRAM —
1 Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to access the Task Manager.
2 Click the Applications tab.
3 Click to select the program that is no longer responding.
4 Click End Task.
66 Troubleshooting
A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Most software includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a
floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
C H E C K T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall
the program.
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system

RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an
environment similar to non-Windows Vista operating system environments.
1 Click Start →Control Panel→Programs→Use an older program with this
version of Windows.
2 In the welcome screen, click Next.
A solid blue screen appears

TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on
your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to
10 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your computer.
Other software problems

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE
MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION —
• Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your
computer.
• Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to
run the software. See the software documentation for information.
• 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.
BACK UP YOUR FILES IMMEDIATELY
USE A VIRUS-SCANNING PROGRAM TO CHECK THE HARD DRIVE, FLOPPY DISKS,
CDS, OR DVDS
SAVE AND CLOSE ANY OPEN FILES OR PROGRAMS AND SHUT DOWN YOUR
COMPUTER THROUGH THE START MENU
Troubleshooting 67
Memory Problems
IF YOU RECEIVE AN INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE —
• Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if
that resolves the problem.
• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary,
install additional memory (see "Installing Memory" on page 106).
• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 104) to ensure that your
computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 86).
IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS —
• Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 104) to ensure that your
computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
• Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Installing
Memory" on page 106).
• Ensure that the memory you are using is supported by your computer. For more
information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on
page 104.
• Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 86).
Mouse Problems
CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE —
• Ensure that the cable is not damaged or frayed and check cable connectors for bent or
broken pins. Straighten any bent pins.
• Remove any mouse extension cables, and connect the mouse directly to the computer.
• Verify that the mouse cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your
computer.
RESTART THE COMPUTER —
1 Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the Start menu.
2 Press <u>, press the up- and down-arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn
Off, and then press <Enter>.
68 Troubleshooting
3 After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the setup
diagram.
4 Turn on the computer.
TE S T T H E M O U S E — Connect a properly working mouse to the computer, then try
using the mouse.
CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS —
1 Click Start →Control Panel→Hardware and Sound→Mouse.
2 Adjust the settings as needed.
R E I N S T A L L T H E M O U S E D R I V E R — See "Drivers" on page 90.
Network Problems
C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K C A B L E C O N N E C T O R — Ensure that the network cable is firmly
inserted into the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.
C H E C K T H E N E T W O R K L I G H T S O N T H E B A C K O F T H E C O M P U T E R — If the link
integrity light is off (see "Controls and Lights" on page 176), no network
communication is occurring. Replace the network cable.
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN
C H E C K Y O U R N E T W O R K S E T T I N G S — Contact your network administrator or the
person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and
that the network is functioning.
Power Problems
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S B L U E A N D T H E C O M P U T E R I S N O T R E S P O N D I N G — See
"Diagnostic Lights" on page 76.
Troubleshooting 69
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING BLUE —

• The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or
press the power button to resume normal operation.
• USB keyboard and mouse wake up the system if these devices are configured as wake
up devices in the operating system devices properties. Otherwise, press the power button.
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S O F F — The computer is either turned off or is not
receiving power.
• Reseat the power cable in the power connector on the back of the computer and the
electrical outlet.
• Bypass power strips, power extension cables, and other power protection devices to
verify that the computer turns on properly.
• Ensure that any power strips being used are plugged into an electrical outlet and are
turned on.
• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the
system board (see "System Board Components" on page 103).
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S B L I N K I N G A M B E R — The computer is receiving electrical
power, but an internal power problem may exist.
• Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location
(if applicable).
• Ensure that all components and cables are properly installed and securely connected
to the system board (see "System Board Components" on page 103).
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S S T E A D Y A M B E R — A device may be malfunctioning or
incorrectly installed.
• Remove and then reinstall all memory modules (see "Memory" on page 104).
• Remove and then reinstall any expansion cards, including graphics cards (see
"Removing a PCI Express Card" on page 121).
I F T H E P O W E R L I G H T F L A S H E S A M B E R A N D T H E N G O E S O F F — It can be an internal
power problem.
• Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board
power connector (12VPOWER). (See "System Board Components" on page 103).
E L I M I N A T E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Some possible causes of interference are:
• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables
• Too many devices connected to the same power strip
• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet
70 Troubleshooting
Printer Problems
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer’s
manufacturer.
C H E C K T H E P R I N T E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N — See the printer documentation for setup
and troubleshooting information.
ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER IS TURNED ON
CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS —
• See the printer documentation for cable connection information.
• Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer.
TE S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by
testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y W I N D O W S —
1 Click Start →Control Panel→Hardware and Sound→Printer.
2 If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.
3 Click Properties and click Ports.
4 Adjust the settings, as needed.
REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER — SEE THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION FOR INFORMATION ON
REINSTALLING THE PRINTER DRIVER. — Scanner Problems
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner’s
manufacturer.
C H E C K T H E S C A N N E R D O C U M E N T A T I O N — See the scanner documentation for setup
and troubleshooting information.
U N L O C K T H E S C A N N E R — Ensure that your scanner is unlocked (if the scanner has a
locking tab or button).
RESTART THE COMPUTER AND TRY THE SCANNER AGAIN
CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS —
• See the scanner documentation for information on cable connections.
• Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the
computer.
Troubleshooting 71
VE R I F Y T H A T T H E S C A N N E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y M I C R O S O F T W I N D O W S —
1 Click Start →Control Panel→Hardware and Sound→Scanners and Cameras.
2 If the 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.
Sound and Speaker Problems

No sound from speakers

NOTE: The volume control in MP3 and other media players may override the
Windows volume setting. Always check to ensure that the volume on the media
player(s) has not been turned down or off.
C H E C K T H E S P E A K E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N S — Ensure that the speakers are
connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If you purchased
a sound card, ensure that the speakers are connected to the card.
E N S U R E T H A T T H E S U B W O O F E R A N D T H E S P E A K E R S A R E T U R N E D O N — See the
setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls,
adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.
A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — Click or double-click the speaker icon
in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that
the sound is not muted.
D I S C O N N E C T H E A D P H O N E S F R O M T H E H E A D P H O N E C O N N E C T O R — Sound from the
speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer’s
front-panel headphone connector.
E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or
halogen lamps to check for interference.
RUN THE SPEAKER DIAGNOSTICS
R E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D D R I V E R — See "Drivers" on page 90.
72 Troubleshooting
No sound from headphones

C H E C K T H E H E A D P H O N E C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N — Ensure that the headphone cable is
securely inserted into the headphone connector (see "Front and Back View of the
Computer" on page 15).
A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L — Click or double-click the speaker icon
in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that
the sound is not muted.
Video and Monitor Problems

NOTICE: If your computer came with a PCI graphics card installed, removal of the
card is not necessary when installing additional graphics cards; however, the card
is required for troubleshooting purposes. If you remove the card, store it in a safe
and secure location. For information about your graphics card, go to
support.dell.com.
The screen is blank

NOTE: For troubleshooting procedures, see the monitor’s documentation.
The screen is difficult to read

CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION —
• Ensure that the monitor cable is connected to the correct graphics card (for dual
graphics card configurations).
• If you are using the optional DVI-to-VGA adapter, ensure that the adapter is
correctly attached to the graphics card and monitor.
• Ensure that the monitor cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your
computer.
• Remove any video extension cables and connect the monitor directly to the computer.
• Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the monitor’s power
cable is defective.
• Check the connectors for bent or broken pins (it is normal for monitor cable
connectors to have missing pins).
Troubleshooting 73
CHECK THE MONITOR POWER LIGHT —

• If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power.
• If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that the monitor is
turned on.
• If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse to
resume normal operation.
C H E C K T H E D I A G N O S T I C L I G H T S — See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 76.
C H E C K T H E M O N I T O R S E T T I N G S — See the monitor documentation for instructions
on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor,
and running the monitor self-test.
M O V E T H E S U B W O O F E R A W A Y F R O M T H E M O N I T O R — If your speaker system
includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is positioned at least 60 centimeters
(2 feet) away from the monitor.
M O V E T H E M O N I T O R A W A Y F R O M E X T E R N A L P O W E R S O U R C E S — Fans, fluorescent
lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to
appear shaky. Turn off nearby devices to check for interference.
ROTATE THE MONITOR TO ELIMINATE SUNLIGHT GLARE AND POSSIBLE
INTERFERENCE
ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS —

1 Click Start →Control Panel→Hardware and Sound→Personalization→Display
Settings.
2 Adjust Resolution and Colors settings, as needed.
3D image quality is poor

C H E C K T H E G R A P H I C S C A R D P O W E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N — Ensure that the power
cable for the graphics card(s) is correctly attached to the card.
C H E C K T H E M O N I T O R S E T T I N G S — See the monitor documentation for instructions
on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor,
and running the monitor self-test.
74 Troubleshooting
Power Lights
The power button light located on the front of the computer illuminates and
blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:
• If the power light is blue and the computer is not responding, see
"Diagnostic Lights" on page 76.
• If the power light is blinking blue, the computer is in standby mode. Press
a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to
resume normal operation.
• If the power light is off, the computer is either turned off or is not
receiving power.
– Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of
the computer and the electrical outlet.
– If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power
strip is plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is
turned on.
– Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension
cables to verify that the computer turns on properly.
– Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another
device, such as a lamp.
– Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely
connected to the system board (see "System Board Components" on
page 103).
• If the power light is blinking amber, the computer is receiving electrical
power, but an internal power problem might exist.
– Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power
at your location, if applicable.
– Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the
Troubleshooting 75
• If the power light is steady amber, a device may be malfunctioning or

incorrectly installed.
– Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on
page 104).
– Remove and then reinstall any cards (see "Cards" on page 109).
• Eliminate interference. Some possible causes of interference are:
– Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables
– Too many devices on a power strip
– Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet
Diagnostic Lights
To help troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four blue lights labeled 1,
2, 3, and 4 on the top bezel (see "Front View" on page 15). When the
computer starts normally, the lights flash before turning off. If the computer
malfunctions, the sequence of the lights help to identify the problem.
NOTE: After the computer completes POST, all four lights turn off before booting to
the operating system.
Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

The computer is in a • Plug the computer into a
normal off condition or a working electrical outlet (see
possible pre-BIOS failure "Power Problems" on page 69).
has occurred. • If the problem persists, contact
The diagnostic lights are Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on
not lit after the system page 200).
successfully boots to the
operating system.
A possible processor failure • Reseat the processor (see
has occurred. "Processor" on page 154).
• If the problem persists, contact
Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on
page 200).
76 Troubleshooting

Memory modules are • If two or more memory
detected, but a memory modules are installed, remove
failure has occurred. the modules (see "Removing
Memory" on page 108), then
reinstall one module (see
"Installing Memory" on
page 106) and restart the
computer. If the computer
starts normally, continue to
install additional memory
modules (one at a time) until
you have identified a faulty
module or reinstalled all
modules without error.
• If available, install working
memory of the same type into
your computer (see "Installing
page 200).
A possible graphics card • Reseat any installed graphics
failure has occurred. cards (see "Cards" on
page 109).
• If available, install a working
graphics card into your
computer.
page 200).
A possible floppy drive or Reseat all power and data cables.
hard drive failure has
occurred.
A possible USB failure has Reinstall all USB devices and

occurred. check all cable connections.
Troubleshooting 77

No memory modules are • If two or more memory
detected. modules are installed, remove
the modules (see "Removing
Memory" on page 108), then
reinstall one module (see
"Installing Memory" on
page 106) and restart the
computer. If the computer
starts normally, continue to
install additional memory
modules (one at a time) until
you have identified a faulty
module or reinstalled all
modules without error.
• If available, install working
memory of the same type into
your computer (see "Installing
page 200).
Memory modules are • Ensure that no special
detected, but a memory requirements for memory
configuration or module/connector placement
compatibility error has exist (see "Memory" on
occurred. page 104).
• Ensure that the memory you
are using is supported by your
computer (see "Memory" on
page 173).
page 200).
78 Troubleshooting

A possible expansion card 1 Determine if a conflict exists
failure has occurred. by removing an expansion card
(not a graphics card) and
restarting the computer (see
"Removing a PCI Card" on
page 114 and "Removing a PCI
Express Card" on page 121).
2 If the problem persists, reinstall
the card you removed, then
remove a different card and
restart the computer.
3 Repeat this process for each
expansion card installed. If the
computer starts normally,
troubleshoot the last card
removed from the computer
for resource conflicts (see
"Troubleshooting Software and
Hardware Problems in the
Microsoft Windows Vista™
Operating System" on
page 93).
4 If the problem persists, contact
page 200).
Troubleshooting 79

Another failure has • Ensure that all hard drive and
occurred. optical drive cables are properly
connected to the system board
(see "System Board
Components" on page 103).
• If there is an error message on
the screen identifying a
problem with a device (such as
the floppy drive or hard drive),
check the device to make sure
it is functioning properly.
• If the operating system is
attempting to boot from a
device (such as the floppy drive
or optical drive), check system
setup (see "System Setup" on
page 178) to ensure the boot
sequence is correct for the
devices installed on your
computer.
page 200).
80 Troubleshooting
Beep Codes
Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor
cannot display errors or problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code,
identifies a problem. For example, beep code 1-3-1 (one possible beep code)
consists of one beep, a burst of three beeps, and then one beep. This beep
code tells you that the computer encountered a memory problem.
Reseating the memory modules may correct the following beep code errors.
If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 200) for
instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
Code Cause
1-3-1 through 2-4-4 Memory not being properly identified or used
4-3-1 Memory failure above address 0FFFFh
If you experience any of the following beep code errors, see "Contacting Dell"
on page 200 for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
Code Cause
1-1-2 Microprocessor register failure
1-1-3 NVRAM read/write failure
1-1-4 ROM BIOS checksum failure
1-2-1 Programmable interval timer failure
1-2-2 DMA initialization failure
1-2-3 DMA page register read/write failure
1-3 Video Memory Test failure
1-3-1 through 2-4-4 Memory not being properly identified or used
3-1-1 Slave DMA register failure
3-1-2 Master DMA register failure
3-1-3 Master interrupt mask register failure
3-1-4 Slave interrupt mask register failure
3-2-2 Interrupt vector loading failure
Troubleshooting 81
Code Cause
3-2-4 Keyboard Controller Test failure
3-3-1 NVRAM power loss
3-3-2 Invalid NVRAM configuration
3-3-4 Video Memory Test failure
3-4-1 Screen initialization failure
3-4-2 Screen retrace failure
3-4-3 Search for video ROM failure
4-2-1 No timer tick
4-2-2 Shutdown failure
4-2-3 Gate A20 failure
4-2-4 Unexpected interrupt in protected mode
4-3-1 Memory failure above address 0FFFFh
4-3-3 Timer-chip counter 2 failure
4-3-4 Time-of-day clock stopped
4-4-1 Serial or parallel port test failure
4-4-2 Failure to decompress code to shadowed memory
4-4-3 Math-coprocessor test failure
4-4-4 Cache test failure
82 Troubleshooting
System Messages
NOTE: If the message you received is not listed in the table, see the documentation
for either the operating system or the program that was running when the message
appeared.
Message Possible Cause Corrective Action

8042 Gate-A20 The keyboard If you receive this message
error controller failed its test. after you make changes in
the system setup program,
enter the system setup
program and restore the
original value(s).
Address Line An error in the address Reseat the memory
Short! decoding circuitry in modules (see "Memory"
the memory has on page 104).
occurred.
C: Drive Error The hard drive is not Ensure that the hard drive
working or is not is installed correctly in the
C: Drive Failure
configured correctly. computer (see "Drives" on
page 128) and defined
correctly in the system
setup program (see
"System Setup" on
page 178).
Cache Memory Bad, The cache memory is See "Contacting Dell" on
Do Not Enable not operating. page 200 for instructions
Cache on obtaining technical
assistance.
CH-2 Timer Error An error is occurring on See "Contacting Dell" on
the timer on the system page 200 for instructions
board. on obtaining technical
assistance.
Troubleshooting 83

CMOS Battery The system Enter the system setup
State Low configuration program (see "Entering
information in the System Setup" on
CMOS Checksum system setup program page 179), verify the
Failure is incorrect or the system configuration, and
CMOS System battery charge may be then restart the computer.
Options Not Set low.
CMOS Display Type

Mismatch
CMOS Memory Size
Mismatch
CMOS Time and
Date Not Set
Diskette Boot Drive A or B is present Ensure that the drive is
Failure but has failed the BIOS installed correctly in the
POST. computer (see "Drives" on
page 128) and defined
setup program (see
"System Setup" on
page 178). Check the
interface cable at both
ends.
DMA Error Error in the DMA The keyboard or system
controller on the board may need to be
DMA 1 Error
system board. replaced.
DMA 2 Error
84 Troubleshooting

FDD Controller The BIOS cannot Ensure that the floppy
Failure communicate with the drive or the hard drive is
floppy drive or hard installed correctly in the
HDD Controller drive controller. computer (see "Drives" on
Failure page 128) and defined
setup program (see
"System Setup" on
page 178). Check the
interface cable at both
ends.
INTR1 Error An interrupt channel The keyboard or system
on the system board board may need to be
INTR2 Error
failed to POST. replaced.
Invalid Boot The operating system Enter the system setup
Diskette cannot be located on program (see "System
drive A or drive C. Setup" on page 178) and
confirm that drive A or
drive C is properly
identified.
Keyboard Error The BIOS has detected Ensure that nothing is
a stuck key. resting on the keyboard; if
a key appears to be stuck,
carefully pry it up. If the
problem persists, you may
need to replace the
keyboard.
Troubleshooting 85

KB/Interface An error occurred with Ensure that nothing is
Error the keyboard resting on the keyboard; if
connector. a key appears to be stuck,
carefully pry it up. If the
problem persists, you may
need to replace the
keyboard.
No ROM Basic The operating system Enter the system setup
cannot be located on program (see "Entering
drive A or drive C. System Setup" on
page 179) and confirm
that drive A or drive C is
properly identified.
Dell Diagnostics
When to Use Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in
"Solving Problems" on page 61 and run Dell Diagnostics before you contact
Dell for technical assistance.
NOTE: Dell Diagnostics only operate on Dell computers.
It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.
Start Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities
media.
86 Troubleshooting
Starting Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

1 Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is
known to be working properly.
2 Turn on (or restart) your computer.
3 When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select
Diagnostics from the boot menu and press <Enter>.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to
wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop, then shut down your
computer and try again.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has
been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media
(see "Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media"
on page 88).
4 Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility
partition on your hard drive.
NOTE: The Quickboot feature changes the boot sequence for the current
boot only. Upon restart, the computer boots according to the boot sequence
specified in system setup.
5 At the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu, left-click with the mouse, or press
<Tab> and then <Enter>, to select the test you want to run (see "Dell
Diagnostics Main Menu" on page 88).
NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they
appear and follow the instructions on the screen.
6 After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu.
7 Close the Main Menu window to exit Dell Diagnostics and restart the
computer.
Troubleshooting 87
Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media

1 Insert the Drivers and Utilities media.
2 Shut down and restart the computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue
to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop; then, shut down your
NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the
next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the
system setup program.
3 When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW and press
<Enter>.
4 Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears and
press <Enter>.
5 Type 1 to start the CD menu and press <Enter> to proceed.
6 Select Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple
versions are listed, select the version appropriate for your computer.
7 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want
to run.
NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they
appear and follow the instructions on the screen.
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

1 After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click
the button for the option you want.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on
your computer.
Option Function
Test Memory Run the stand-alone memory test
Test System Run System Diagnostics
Exit Exit the Diagnostics
88 Troubleshooting
2 After you have selected the Test System option from the main menu, the
following menu appears:
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Test from the menu below to
run a more thorough check of devices in the computer.
Option Function
Express Test Performs a quick test of system devices. The test typically
takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your
part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of
tracing the problem quickly.
Extended Test Performs a thorough check of system devices. The test
typically takes an hour or more.
Custom Test Use to test a specific device or customize the tests to be
run.
Symptom Tree This option allows you to select tests based on a symptom
of the problem you are having. This option lists the most
common symptoms.
Built in Self Performs a thorough check on all LCD display related
Test functions. Based on the test results a green Passed or red
Failed message appears on screen. For items listed in red,
note down the error code and problem description and
contact Dell.
3 If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error

code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and
problem description and see "Contacting Dell" on page 200
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 Test or Symptom Tree option, click the
applicable tab described in the following table for more information.
Troubleshooting 89
Tab Function
Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions
encountered.
Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the
problem description.
Help Describes the test and any requirements for running the test.
Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.
NOTE: The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information
for all devices from system setup, memory, and various internal
tests, and it displays the information in the device list in the left
pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names
of all the components installed on your computer or all devices
attached to your computer.
Parameters Allows you to customize the test, if applicable, by changing
the test settings.
5 When the tests are complete, close the test screen to return to the Main
Menu screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, close
the Main Menu screen.
6 Remove the Dell Drivers and Utilities media.
Drivers
What Is a Driver?
A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or
keyboard. All devices require a driver program.
A driver acts like a translator between the device and any other programs that
use the device. Each device has its own set of specialized commands that only
its driver recognizes.
Dell ships your computer to you with required drivers already installed—no
further installation or configuration is needed.
NOTICE: The Drivers and Utilities media may contain drivers for operating systems
that are not on your computer. Ensure that you are installing software appropriate
for your operating system.
90 Troubleshooting
Many drivers, such as the keyboard driver, come with your Microsoft
Windows operating system. You may need to install drivers if you:
• 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.
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button™ , and right-click Computer.
2 Click Properties→Device Manager.
NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an
administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your
administrator to continue.
3 Scroll down the list to see if any device has an exclamation point (a yellow
circle with a [!]) on the device icon.
If an exclamation point is next to the device name, you may need to
reinstall the driver or install a new driver (see "Reinstalling Drivers and
Utilities" on page 91).
Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com and your Drivers and
Utilities media provide approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers
obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.
Using Windows Device Driver Rollback

If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use
Windows Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously
installed version.
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button™ , and right-click Computer.
2 Click Properties→Device Manager.
administrator to enter the Device Manager.
Troubleshooting 91
3 Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click
Properties.
4 Click Drivers and click Roll Back Driver.
If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System
Restore (see "Restoring Your Operating System" on page 94)to return your
computer to the operating state that existed before you installed the driver.
Using the Drivers and Utilities Media

If using Device Driver Rollback or System Restore does not resolve the
problem, then reinstall the driver from the Drivers and Utilities media.
1 With the Windows desktop displayed, insert the Drivers and Utilities
media.
If this is your first time to use the Drivers and Utilities media, go to step 2.
If not, go to step 5.
2 When the Drivers and Utilities installation program starts, follow the
prompts on the screen.
3 When the InstallShield Wizard Complete window appears, remove the
Drivers and Utilities media and click Finish to restart the computer.
4 When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the Drivers and Utilities media.
5 At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media displays drivers only for hardware that came
installed in your computer. If you installed additional hardware, the drivers for the
new hardware might not be displayed by the Drivers and Utilities media. If those
drivers are not displayed, exit the Drivers and Utilities media program. For drivers
information, see the documentation that came with the device.
A message appears, stating that the Drivers and Utilities media is
detecting hardware in your computer.
The drivers that are used by your computer are automatically displayed in
the My Drivers—The Drivers and Utilities media has identified these
components in your system window.
6 Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on
the screen.
92 Troubleshooting
If a particular driver is not listed, that driver is not required by your

operating system.
NOTE: It is recommended, for optimized performance, that you install the hardware
drivers in the following order:
• Desktop System Software
• Chipset or SMBus driver
• Processor Driver (if applicable)
• Video
• Audio (sound)
• Input Drivers (keyboard/mouse)
• Modem (Desktop computers have a separate CD for the modem)
• Network Card
Troubleshooting Software and Hardware

Problems in the Microsoft Windows Vista™
Operating System
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is
detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware
Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
To start the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1 Click the Windows Vista Start button™ , and click Help and Support.
2 Type hardware troubleshooter in the search field and press
<Enter> to start the search.
3 In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and
follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.
Troubleshooting 93
Restoring Your Operating System

You can restore your operating system in the following ways:
• System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without
affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring
your operating system and preserving data files.
• Dell Factory Image Restore (available in Windows Vista) restores your
hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the
computer. It permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes
any programs installed after you received the computer. Use Dell Factory
Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating
system problem.
• If you received an Operating System disc with your computer, you can use
it to restore your operating system. However, using the Operating System
disc also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the disc only if System
Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
Using Microsoft Windows System Restore

The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which
allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without
affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system
settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. Any changes
that System Restore makes to your computer are completely reversible.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not
monitor your data files or recover them.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view,
so they may not apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.
Starting System Restore

1 Click Start .
2 In the Start Search box, type System Restore and press <Enter>.
administrator to continue the desired action.
3 Click Next and follow the remaining prompts on the screen.
94 Troubleshooting
In the event that System Restore did not resolve the issue, you may undo the
last system restore.
Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and
exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the
system restoration is complete.
1 Click Start .
2 In the Start Search box, type System Restore and press <Enter>.
3 Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
Using Dell Factory Image Restore

NOTICE: Using Dell Factory Image Restore permanently deletes all data on the
hard drive and removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your
computer. If possible, back up the data before using these options. 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 certain countries or on
certain computers.
Use Dell Factory Image Restore (Windows Vista) only as the last method to
restore your operating system. This option restore your hard drive to the
operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs or
files added since you received your computer—including data files—are
permanently deleted from the hard drive. Data files include documents,
spreadsheets, e-mail messages, digital photos, music files, and so on. If
possible, back up all data before using Factory Image Restore.
Windows Vista: Dell Factory Image Restore

Using Factory Image Restore:
1 Turn on the computer. When the Dell logo appears, press <F8> several
times to access the Vista Advanced Boot Options Window.
2 Select Repair Your Computer.
The System Recovery Options window appears.
3 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
Troubleshooting 95
4 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.
5 Click Dell Factory Image Restore.
NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select
Dell Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore.
The Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen appears.
6 Click Next.
The Confirm Data Deletion screen appears.
NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with Factory Image Restore, click Cancel.
7 Click the checkbox to confirm that you want to continue reformatting the
hard drive and restoring the system software to the factory condition, then
click Next.
The restore process begins and may take five or more minutes to complete.
A message appears when the operating system and factory-installed
applications have been restored to factory condition.
8 Click Finish to reboot the system.
Using the Operating System Media
Before You Begin

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows operating system to correct a
problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows Device Driver
Rollback. See "Using Windows Device Driver Rollback" on page 91. If Device
Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to
return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you
installed the new device driver. See "Using Microsoft Windows System
Restore" on page 94.
NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary
hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the
first drive detected by the computer.
96 Troubleshooting
To reinstall Windows, you need the following items:

• Dell™ Operating System media
• Dell Drivers and Utilities media
NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities media contains drivers that were installed
during the assembly of the computer. Use the Dell Drivers and Utilities media to
load any required drivers. Depending on the region from which you ordered your
computer, or whether you requested the media, the Dell Drivers and Utilities
media and Operating System media may not ship with your computer.
Reinstalling Windows Vista

The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you
reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus
protection program, and other software.
1 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2 Insert the Operating System disc.
3 Click Exit if the Install Windows message appears.
4 Restart the computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue
to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop; then, shut down your
NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the
next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the
system setup program.
5 When the boot device list appears, highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive
and press <Enter>.
6 Press any key to Boot from CD-ROM.
7 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
Troubleshooting 97
Troubleshooting LCD Display Problems

LCD display includes a built in self-test which allows the user to diagnose and
troubleshoot any issues related to the application.
To run the Built-in Self-Test

1 Ensure that the system is switched off.
2 Press and hold the menu button (see "Understanding Windows®
SideShow™ and the LCD display" on page 50).
3 Power the system on. Release the menu button.
4 The system enters diagnostic test menu.
5 Select Run All Test.
6 When all the tests are completed, the screen displays a Passed (displayed
in Green) or Failed (displayed in Red) message.
7 Note down the error code and the Failed message description and contact
Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 200).
98 Troubleshooting
Removing and Installing Parts

Before You Begin
This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components
in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the
following conditions exist:
• You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 99
and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 100.
• You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide.
• A component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by
performing the removal procedure in reverse order.
Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
• Small flat-blade screwdriver
• Small Phillips screwdriver
• Small plastic scribe
Turning Off Your Computer

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save any work in progress and exit all open
programs before turning off your computer.
a Save and close all open files and exit all open programs.
b In Microsoft® Windows Vista™, click the Windows Vista Start button™,
, in the lower-left corner of the desktop, click the arrow in the
lower-right corner of the Start menu as shown below, and then click
Shut Down.
is complete.
Removing and Installing Parts 99

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from
potential damage and to help ensure your own personal safety.
CAUTION: When working inside the computer, be aware that the processor
heat-sink assembly, power supply, graphics card, and other components may be
very hot during normal operation. Be sure that they have sufficient time to cool
before you touch them.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components
or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket.
Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.
NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer.
Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.
NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief
loop, not on the cable itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you
are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you
disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to
avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that
both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you
begin working inside the computer.
1 Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer
cover from being scratched.
2 Turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 99).
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer
and then unplug it from the network wall jack.
3 Disconnect all telephone or network cables from the computer.
4 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical
outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.
NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by
touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer.
While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate any
static electricity that could harm internal components.
100 Removing and Installing Parts

Removing the Computer Cover

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from
the electrical outlet before removing the cover.
NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by
touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer.
While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate any
static electricity that could harm internal components.
1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 99.
2 If you have installed a security cable, remove it from the security cable slot.
NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the removed cover—at
least 30 cm (1 ft) of desk top space.
NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid
scratching either the computer or the surface on which it is resting.
3 Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up.
4 Pull back the cover release latch on the top panel.
1 cover release latch 2 computer cover 3 hinge tabs (3)

5 Locate the three hinge tabs on the bottom edge of the computer.
6 Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up.
7 Lift the cover away and set it aside in a secure location.
Inside View of Your Computer

9 1 2
3
6
5
4
1 power supply 2 system board 3 hard drive (2)

4 card fan 5 media card reader 6 floppy drive (optional)
(optional)
7 CD or DVD 8 processor fan 9 processor airflow shroud
drive (2) and processor (processor is
below the processor shroud
and heat sink)

System Board Components

2 3 4
1
5
19
18
17
10
16
11
15
12
14 13

1 memory module 2 battery socket 3 SATA Connectors (2)

connectors (1, 2, 3, 4) (BATTERY) (SATA0, SATA1)
4 front panel I/O 5 main power connector 6 SATA connectors (3)
connector (POWER) (SATA2, SATA3,
SATA4)
7 FlexBay USB 8 clear CMOS jumper 9 password jumper
connector (9 pins) (RTCRST) (PSWD)
10 PCI Express x16 card 11 PCI Express x8 card 12 PCI Express x1 card
connector connector connector
(x4 electrical)
13 PCI card connectors 14 floppy drive connector 15 internal USB
(FLOPPY) connector
connecting to
FlexBay device
16 rear fan connector or 17 Processor fan 18 processor connector
card cage fan connector
connector (FAN_CPU)
(FAN_CARD_CAGE)
19 processor power
connector
(12VPOWER)
Memory
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on
the system board.
Memory Overview
• Memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size,
speed, and technology. If the memory modules are not installed in matched
pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in
performance. See the label in the upper-right corner of the module to
determine the module’s capacity.

NOTE: Always install memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.
The recommended memory configurations are:

– A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1
and DIMM_2
or
– A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1
and DIMM_2 and another matched pair installed in connectors
DIMM_3 and DIMM_4
• If you install mixed pairs of DDR2 667-MHz (PC2-5300)and DDR2 800-MHz
(PC2-6400) memory, the modules function at the slowest speed installed.
• Be sure to install a single memory module in the DIMM_1 connector, the
connector closest to the processor, before you install modules in the other
connectors.
NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer
during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new modules that
you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible,
do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module.
Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. You should install your
original memory modules in pairs either in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2
or connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4.
NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer
warranty.

Channel A: matched pair of memory

modules in connectors DIMM_1
and DIMM_2 (white securing clips)
Channel B: matched pair of memory
modules in connectors DIMM_3
and DIMM_4 (black securing clips)
Addressing Memory With 8-GB Configurations

Your computer supports a maximum of 8 GB of memory when you use four
2-GB DIMMs. However, the amount of memory available to the operating
system is less than 8 GB. This is because certain components within the
computer require address space in the 8-GB range; and any address space
reserved for these components cannot be used by computer memory.
NOTE: 8 GB memory is available only if you ordered an operating system that
supports 64 bits. If you ordered a system that supports only 32 bits then the memory
available is 4 GB.
Installing Memory
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge
static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic
components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
2 Remove the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on
page 101).
3 Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of
the inside of the computer.
4 Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.

1 memory slot on system board 2 memory slot
5 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the
connector.
3
2
1 cutouts (2) 2 memory module

3 notch 4 crossbar
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down
into the connector while you apply equal force to each end of the module.

6 Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts
at each end of the module.
7 Replace the computer cover.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack
and then plug it into the computer.
8 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn
them on.
9 Right-click the My Computer icon, then click Properties.
10 Click the General tab.
11 To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of
memory (RAM) listed.
Removing Memory
components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the
computer.
page 101).

3 Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
4 Grasp the module and pull up.
If the module is difficult to remove, gently ease the module back and forth
to remove it from the connector.
Cards
components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards:
• Three PCI card slots
• One PCI Express x1 card slot
• One PCI Express x16 card slot
• One PCI Express x8 card slot (electrically configured as an x4)
PCI Cards
• If you are installing or replacing a PCI card, follow the procedures in the
next section.
• If you are removing but not replacing a PCI card, see "Removing a PCI
Card" on page 114.
• If you are replacing a PCI card, remove the current driver for the card from
the operating system.
• If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, see "Installing a PCI
Express Card" on page 116.
• If you are removing but not replacing a PCI Express card, see "Removing
a PCI Express Card" on page 121.

Installing a PCI Card

NOTE: Dell offers an optional customer kit for Audigy II and IEEE 1394 PCI add-in-
cards that includes a front-mounted IEEE 1394 connector.
NOTE: The PCI connector adjacent to the hard drive can accommodate a card
5.5 inches in length. Inorder to accommodate a longer card (upto 10.5 inches)
remove the hard-drive bracket.
page 101).
4
5
1 release tabs (2) 2 card retention door 3 alignment bar

4 alignment guide 5 filler bracket

3 Push the two release tabs on the card retention door from the inside to
pivot the door open. Because the door is hinged, it will remain in the open
position.
3
1 2
1 release tab 2 card retention mechanism 3 card retention door
4 If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the x16

card, press the release tab downward gently and then pivot the mechanism
upward to access the card slots.
5 If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-
slot opening. Then continue with step 7.
6 If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove
the card.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card
by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.
7 Prepare the card for installation.
See the documentation that came with the card for information on
configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise
customizing it for your computer.
CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they
are connected to a network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug
your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.

8 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card
is fully seated in the slot.
4
5
1 fully seated card 2 not fully seated card 3 bracket within slot
4 bracket caught 5 alignment bar 6 alignment guide
outside of slot
9 Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:

• The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.
• The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the
alignment guide.

1 card retention door 2 release tabs (2)
10 Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the card(s).
NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the
cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to
the equipment.
11 Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
See the documentation for the card for information about the card cable
connections.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device
and then plug the cable into the computer.
12 If you replaced a card that was already installed in the computer and you
removed the retention mechanism, reinstall the retention mechanism.
13 Before replacing the card retention mechanism, ensure that:
alignment guide.
14 Snap the card retention mechanism into place, securing the PCI card.

15 Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to

electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
16 If you installed a sound card:
a Enter system setup, select Integrated Audio Controller, and then
change the setting to Off.
b Connect external audio devices to the sound card connectors. Do not
connect external audio devices to the integrated microphone,
speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel.
17 If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the
integrated network adapter:
a Enter system setup, select Integrated NIC Controller, and then
b Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter connectors.
Do not connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the
back panel.
18 Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card
documentation.
Removing a PCI Card

page 101).
3 If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the
empty card-slot opening.
If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 200).
NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to
maintain FCC certification of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and
dirt out of your computer.
5 Remove the card driver from the operating system.

6 If you removed a sound card:

change the setting to On.
b Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back
panel of the computer.
7 If you removed an add-in network connector:
b Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back
PCI Express Cards

Your computer supports:
• One PCI Express x1 card
• One PCI Express x16 card
• One PCI Express x4 card (an x8 card electrically configured as x4)
If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, follow the procedures in
the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a card, see "Removing
a PCI Express Card" on page 121.
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the
operating system.
If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, see "Installing a PCI
Express Card" on page 116.

Installing a PCI Express Card

2 3
1 card retention door 2 release tabs (2) 3 lever on chassis wall (may not
be present on all computers)
4 filler bracket 5 alignment guide 6 alignment bar
2 If present on your computer, rotate the lever on the chassis wall upward.
3 Push the two release tabs on the card retention door toward each other and
pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open
position.


1 2 3
5 If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot
opening. Then continue with step 7.
6 If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove
the existing card.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. If your card
includes a retention mechanism, remove the top of the retention
mechanism by pressing the tab and pulling up on the top.

7 Pull the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out
of its connector.
4
2
3
1 PCI Express x16 card slot 2 PCI Express x16 card 3 securing tab
4 PCI Express x1 card 5 PCI Express x1 card slot
8 Prepare the card for installation.

See the documentation that came with the card for information on
configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise
customizing it for your computer.
CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they
are connected to a network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug
your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.
9 If you are installing the card into the x16 card connector, position the card
so that the securing slot is aligned with the securing tab.
NOTICE: Ensure that you release the securing tab to seat the card. If the card is
not installed correctly, you may damage the system board.
10 Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card
is fully seated in the slot.

3
1
6
4
1 fully seated card 2 not fully seated card 3 bracket within slot
4 bracket caught outside of slot 5 alignment bar 6 alignment guide
11 Ensure that:
alignment guide.
12 If you removed a card retention mechanism, snap it into place, securing
the PCI Express card.

2
1 3
NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the
cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to
the equipment.
14 If you installed a sound card:
b Connect external audio devices to the sound card’s connectors. Do
not connect external audio devices to the integrated microphone,
speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel.

15 If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the

integrated network adapter:
b Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter’s
connectors. Do not connect the network cable to the integrated
connector on the back panel.
16 Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
Removing a PCI Express Card

page 101).
3
1
5 4
1 card retention 2 release tabs (2) 3 lever on chassis wall (may not
door be present on all computers)
4 filler bracket 5 alignment guide 6 alignment bar

3 If present on your computer, rotate the lever on the chassis wall upward.
4 Push the two release tabs on the card retention door toward each other and
pivot the door open. Because the door is hinged, it will remain in the open
position.
2 3
1

4
2
3
1 PCI Express x16 card slot 2 PCI Express x16 card 3 securing tab
4 PCI Express x1 card 5 PCI Express x1 card slot

NOTICE: Ensure that you release the securing tab to unseat the card. If the card is
not removed correctly, the system board may be damaged.
6 Release the securing tab on the card slot to unseat the card.
7 If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the
empty card-slot opening.
If you need a filler bracket, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 200).
NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to
maintain FCC certification of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and
dirt out of your computer.
8 Reseat the card retention mechanism in the tabs and pivot downward to
snap it into place.
9 Close the card retention door to snap it into place, securing the card(s).
NOTE: For full-length PCI-E cards, if a "piano" bracket is present on your
computer you need to rotate it down into place.
11 Remove the card driver from the operating system.
12 If you removed a sound card:
b Connect external audio devices to the integrated audio connectors on
the back panel of the computer.
13 If you removed an add-in network connector:
b Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back
NOTE: Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card
documentation.

Drive Panels
the electrical outlet before removing the cover.
Removing the Drive Panel

page 101).
2 1
1 sliding plate lever 2 sliding plate 3 drive panel

3 Grasping the lever on the sliding plate, pull the sliding plate downward
and hold in place.
NOTE: The sliding plate secures and releases the drive panel and helps to secure
the drives. Push from the inside and pivot the drive panel to the left to release the
panel from its side hinges.
4 The drive panel clicks open, gently ease it out and set it aside in a secure
location.
Removing the Drive-Panel Insert
2
3
1 drive panel 2 drive-panel insert tab 3 drive-panel insert
1 Remove the drive panel, see "Removing the Drive Panel" on page 124.
2 Turn the drive panel around to find and hold both outer edges of the drive
panel insert tab, pull inwards to ease it out of the latches that hold it in
place.
3 Set the drive-panel insert aside in a secure location.

Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert
3
2
1 drive panel 2 drive-panel insert tab 3 drive-panel insert
1 Align the notches on the drive-panel insert to the corresponding slots on

the drive panel and snap into place.
2 Ensure that the drive-panel insert is correctly seated in the drive panel.

Replacing the Drive Panel

page 101).
2
1
1 sliding plate 2 sliding plate lever 3 drive panel
3 Align the drive panel tabs with the side-door hinges.

4 Rotate the drive panel toward the computer until the sliding plate lever
clicks into place and the drive panel snaps into place on the front panel.
5 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on
page 172.

Drives
Your computer supports:
• Two hard drives (Serial ATA)
• Two FlexBay drives (can contain an optional floppy drive, an optional
Media Card Reader, or an optional hard drive).
• Two CD or DVD drives
General Installation Guidelines

Connect the hard drives to the connectors labeled "SATA0" and "SATA1",
starting with SATA0. Connect CD/DVD drives to the connectors labeled
"SATA2","SATA3", or "SATA4", starting with "SATA2".
Serial ATA hard drives and CD/DVD drives are connected to the connectors
labeled "SATA0" to "SATA4" on the system board.
1 interface cable
2 interface connector
When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA cable, hold the cable by the
connector at each end.
NOTE: It is recommended that you connect the hard drive to the connector labeled
SATA0 on the system board. Connect additional hard drives to connectors labeled
SATA1 and SATA2. Connect the CD/DVD drives to connectors adjacent to where the
hard drive is connected.

Hard Drive
the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set
the drive on a surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
NOTICE: If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data, back up your files
before you begin this procedure
Removing a Hard Drive

page 101).
3 Disconnect the power and hard drive cables from the drive.
1 power cable 2 hard drive cable

4 Press in on the tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out.
1 tabs (2) 2 hard drive

page 172).
6 If removing this drive changes the drive configuration, then be sure to
reflect these changes in the BIOS. When you restart your computer, enter
system setup (see "System Setup" on page 178). On the setup screen go to
the "Drives" section and set the SATA ports (SATA 0 through 4)to the
correct configuration.
Installing a Hard Drive

NOTE: It is recommended that you connect the hard drive to the connector labeled
SATA0 on the system board. Connect additional hard drives to connectors labeled
SATA1 and SATA2.
page 101).
3 Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation.
4 Check the documentation for the drive to verify that the drive is
configured for your computer.

5 If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard-drive bracket
attached, remove the bracket from the old hard drive by unsnapping it
from the drive.
6 Snap the hard-drive bracket bracket onto the replacement hard drive.
7 Install the hard drive into the computer by sliding the drive into place
until it clicks into place.
1 hard drive 2 hard-drive bracket
8 Connect the power and hard drive cables to the hard drive.
1
2
1 power cable 2 hard drive cable

9 Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and
firmly seated.
page 172).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network wall
jack and then plug the cable into the computer.
them on.
12 If installing this drive changes the drive configuration, then be sure to
reflect these changes in the BIOS. When you restart your computer, enter
system setup (see "System Setup" on page 178). On the setup screen go to
the "Drives" section and set the SATA ports (SATA 0 through 4)to the
correct configuration.
13 See the documentation that came with the hard drive for instructions
about installing any software required for the operation of the hard drive.
Adding a Second Hard Drive

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set
the drive on a surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
NOTE: It is recommended that you connect the primary hard drive on your system
to the connector labeled SATA0 on the system board. Connect additional hard drives
to connectors labeled SATA1 and SATA2.
1 Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for
your computer.
page 101).
4 Press in on the tabs on each side of the hard-drive bracket in the empty
drive bay and slide the bracket up and out.

5 Snap the hard-drive bracket onto the new hard drive.

NOTICE: Do not install any drive into the lower hard-drive bay until you have
removed the hard-drive bracket from the inside of the hard drive bay.
6 Slide the new hard drive into the empty bay and click it into place.
1 hard drive 2 hard-drive bracket
7 Connect the power and hard drive cables to the drive.
8 Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly
seated.

9 Replace the computer cover ("Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 172).
them on.
11 When you restart your computer, enter system setup (see "System Setup"
on page 178). Then, go to the "Drives" section of the BIOS and under
SATA 0 through 4, set the SATA port to "ON" for the hard drive you
just installed. This enables the drive.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on
installing any software required for drive operation.
Installing a Hard Drive in the FlexBay

The top FlexBay drive on your system can hold an additional hard drive.
1 hard drive 2 sliding plate lever 3 flexbay knob (the default position)

page 101).

3 Remove the drive panel (see "Removing the Drive Panel" on page 124).
4 Remove the shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel insert and
attach the screws to the new drive (see "Removing the Drive-Panel Insert"
on page 125).
5 Turn the FlexBay knob on the cage at 90 degrees, in the anti-clockwise
direction.
NOTICE: Ensure the FlexBay knob is turned in the anticlockwise direction. Failure
to heed can result in the knob being broken.
NOTE: Turning the FlexBay knob once opens up the drive space to
accommodate a larger device like a hard drive. The knob at this stage is in a
horizontal position.
6 Pull the sliding plate lever down and hold in place.
7 Slide the hard drive into the flex bay drive until the sliding plate clicks into
place and the drive snaps into position.
8 Attach the power and hard drive cables to the hard drive.
page 172).
Removing a Hard Drive From the FlexBay
1 hard drive 2 sliding plate lever


page 101).
3 Disconnect the power and hard-drive cables from the back of the drive.
4 Pull the sliding plate down and hold in place.
5 Slide the hard drive out of the FlexBay.
6 Turn the FlexBay knob to its default position. Refer to the illustration on
"Installing a Hard Drive in the FlexBay" on page 134 to note the default
FlexBay knob position.
Floppy Drive
NOTE: If you are adding a floppy drive, see "Installing a Floppy Drive" on page 138.
Removing a Floppy Drive

page 101).
4 Disconnect the power and floppy-drive cables from the back of the floppy
drive.
5 Unhook floppy-drive cable from the clips on the processor airflow shroud.
Disconnect the other end of the floppy-drive cable from the system board.
Remove the floppy-drive cable from the computer.

6
1
1 power cable 2 floppy-drive cable 3 floppy drive

4 sliding plate lever 5 sliding plate 6 processor airflow shroud
6 Pull the sliding plate down and hold in place.

7 Slide the floppy drive out of the floppy drive bay.

8 If you are not replacing the drive, replace the drive-panel insert (see
"Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert" on page 126).
9 Replace the drive panel (see "Replacing the Drive Panel" on page 127).
page 172.
11 If you are not replacing the drive, then ensure that these changes are
reflected in the BIOS. When you restart your computer, enter system
setup (see "System Setup" on page 178). On the setup screen go to the
"Drives" section and under Diskette Drive set the value to "none".
Installing a Floppy Drive

page 101).
5 If installing a new floppy drive, remove the drive panel insert (see
"Removing the Drive-Panel Insert" on page 125).
6 If you are installing a new floppy drive, remove the shoulder screws from
the inside of the drive-panel insert and attach the screws to the new drive.
See "Removing the Drive-Panel Insert" on page 125.
1 floppy drive 2 shoulder screws (4)

7 Slide the floppy drive into the floppy drive bay until the sliding plate clicks
into place and the drive snaps into position.
8 Attach the power and floppy-drive cables to the floppy drive.
9 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide
airflow for the fan and cooling vents.
page 172).
jack and then plug it in to the computer.
11 Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and then
turn them on.
on page 178). On the setup screen go to the "Drives" section and under
Diskette Drive set the value to "Internal only".
See the documentation that came with the floppy drive for instructions on
installing any software required for the operation of the drive.
13 Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics
NOTE: If you have already installed an additional hard drive in the FlexBay
and you want to replace it with a floppy drive, ensure that the FlexBay knob is
rotated, anti clockwise, back to its default vertical position, see the illustration
for "Installing a Hard Drive in the FlexBay" on page 134.

Media Card Reader

For information on using the Media Card Reader, see "Using a Media Card
Reader" on page 47.
Removing a Media Card Reader

computer chassis.
page 101).
1 Media Card Reader (not present on all computers) 2 USB cable

5 Disconnect the USB cable on the back of the Media Card Reader.
Disconnect the other end of the cable from the USB connector on the
system board (see "System Board Components" on page 103). Remove the
cable from any clips and lift out of the computer.
2
1
1 sliding plate 2 sliding plate lever 3 Media Card Reader (not

present on all computers)
6 Pull the sliding plate towards the bottom of the system and hold; then,
slide the drive out through the front of the computer.
7 Replace the drive panel insert (see "Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert" on
page 126).
page 172).
10 Turn on the system and enter system setup (see "System Setup" on
page 178). Set the USB for FlexBay value to OFF.

Installing a Media Card Reader

computer chassis.
NOTE: If you have already installed an additional hard drive in the FlexBay and you
want to replace it with a media card reader, ensure that the FlexBay knob is rotated,
anti clockwise, back to its default vertical position, see the illustration for "Installing
a Hard Drive in the FlexBay" on page 134.
page 101).
5 Remove the drive panel insert (see "Removing the Drive-Panel Insert" on
page 125).
6 Remove the Media Card Reader from its packaging.
7 Remove the shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel insert and
attach the screws to the new drive.
1 Media Card Reader 2 screws (4)

8 Gently slide the drive into place till it clicks in securely.

NOTE: Ensure that the Media Card Reader is installed before connecting the
USB cable.
9 Connect the USB cable to the back of the Media Card Reader and to the
USB connector on the system board (see "System Board Components" on
page 103).
1 Media Card Reader (optional) 2 USB cable
10 Route the USB cable through the cable routing clip.

page 172).
13 Turn on the system and enter system setup (see "System Setup" on
page 178). Set the USB for FlexBay value to ON.

CD/DVD Drive
Removing a CD/DVD Drive

page 101).
4 Disconnect the power cable from the back of the drive and the CD/DVD
drive cable from the back of the drive and the system board.
1 2
1 CD/DVD drive cable 2 power cable 3 system board

5 Slide the drive release mechanism to the right to release the shoulder screw
and slide the drive out to remove it from the drive bay.
1 sliding plate 2 CD drive
6 If you are not replacing the drive, replace the drive panel insert (see
"Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert" on page 126).
page 172).
9 If you are removing and not replacing this drive, then be sure to disable the
drive in the BIOS. When you restart your computer, enter system setup
(see "System Setup" on page 178). On the setup screen go to the "Drives"
section and under SATA 0 through 4, set the SATA ports to the correct
configuration.

Installing a CD/DVD Drive

page 101).
3 If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for
installation.
Check the documentation that accompanied the drive to verify that the
drive is configured for your computer.
4 If you are installing a new drive, remove the drive panel insert (see
"Removing the Drive-Panel Insert" on page 125).
5 Remove three shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel insert and
attach the screws to the new drive.
1 CD/DVD drive 2 shoulder screws (3)
6 Slide the drive into the drive bay until the drive clicks into position.
7 Connect the power cable to the drive and the CD/DVD cable to the drive
and system board. To locate the systemboard connectors see "System
Board Components" on page 103.

1 2
1 CD/DVD cable 2 power cable 3 system board
8 Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide
airflow for the fan and cooling vents.
10 Replace the computer cover (See "Replacing the Computer Cover" on
page 172).
jack and then plug it in to the computer.
11 Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and then
turn them on.
on page 178). On the setup screen go to the "Drives" section and under
SATA 0 through 4, enable the SATA port for this drive.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on
installing any software required for drive operation.
13 Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics

Processor Airflow Shroud

CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
Removing the Processor Airflow Shroud Assembly

page 101).
CAUTION: The processor heat sink can get very hot during normal operation. Be
sure that the heat sink has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.
3 Disconnect the fan cable from the FAN_CPU connector on the system
board (see "System Board Components" on page 103).
1 2
1 processor airflow shroud 2 captive screws (2)

NOTICE: The processor heat sink is attached to the processor airflow shroud.
When you remove the airflow shroud, lay it upside down or on its side to avoid
damaging the heat sink thermal interface.
4 Loosen the captive screws securing the processor airflow shroud to the
chassis, then pivot the shroud forward and ease it out of the hinges.
5 Lift the processor airflow shroud out of the computer, and set it aside.
Installing the Processor Airflow Shroud Assembly

page 101).
3 Align the hinge slots on the processor airflow shroud with the hinge guides
on the system board.
4 Align the other side of the processor airflow shroud towards the fan, and
then tighten the two captive screws.
5 Connect the fan cable to the FAN_CPU connector on the system board
(see "System Board Components" on page 103).
page 172).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or
device and then plug it into the computer.
7 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Fans
Removing the Processor Fan Cage
page 101).
4 Remove the processor airflow shroud (see "Removing the Processor Airflow
Shroud Assembly" on page 148).

5 Lift and hold the release tab present on the bottom of the fan cage, press
down on the top of the cage and slide it towards the back of the system to
dislodge the tabs from the grooves that hold them down.
6 Ease the cage out of the housing.
Installing the Processor Fan Cage

page 101).
3 Remove the processor airflow shroud, if you have not already removed it.
(see "Removing the Processor Airflow Shroud Assembly" on page 148).
4 With the fan power cable oriented downward, insert the tabs along the bottom
of the fan cage into the corresponding slots on the cage housing, gently slide
the fan cage towards the front of the system until it snaps into place.
6 Replace the processor airflow shroud (see "Installing the Processor Airflow
page 172).

Removing the Processor Fan

page 101).
5 Remove the processor fan cage from the cage housing (see "Removing the
Processor Fan Cage" on page 149).
6 Carefully pull on the two bottom corners of the fan to detach the four
rubber grommets securing the fan to the processor airflow shroud.
1 fan cage 2 rubber grommet (4) 3 Processor fan

Installing the Processor Fan

1 With the fan power cable oriented downward, align the rubber grommets
in the fan with the holes in each corner of the processor airflow shroud,
then pull the grommets through until they snap into place.
NOTE: Airflow direction and orientation are shown on the side of the fan.
2 Replace the processor fan cage into the cage housing (see "Installing the
Processor Fan Cage" on page 150).
page 172).
device and then plug it into your computer.
them on.
Removing the Card Fan

page 101).
3 Remove any full-length expansion cards (see "Removing a PCI Express
Card" on page 121 and "Removing a PCI Card" on page 114).
4 Disconnect the fan cable from the FAN_CARD_CAGE connector on the
5 Lift and hold the tab present at the bottom of the fan cage. Pressing the
top of the cage slide it towards the back of the system, then gently ease the
cage out of the groove.

1 fan cage 2 tab
6 One by one, carefully pull on each corner of the fan to detach the four
rubber grommets securing the fan to the fan cage.
1 card fan 2 rubber grommet (4) 3 card fan cage

Installing the Card Fan

NOTICE: Ensure the fan cable is correctly routed through the opening in the lower-
right corner of the fan cage.
1 With the fan power cable oriented downward, align the rubber grommets
in the fan with the holes in each corner of the fan cage, then pull the
grommets through until they snap into place.
NOTE: Airflow direction and orientation are shown on the side of the fan.
Insert the tabs along the bottom of the fan cage into the corresponding slots
on the cage housing, then rotate the fan cage forward until it snaps into place.
2 Connect the fan cable to the FAN_CARD_CAGE connector on the
3 Replace any expansion cards that you removed (see "Installing a PCI Card"
on page 110 and "Installing a PCI Express Card" on page 116).
page 172).
them on.
Processor
NOTICE: Do not perform the following steps unless you are familiar with hardware
removal and replacement. Performing these steps incorrectly could damage your
system board.
Removing the Processor

page 101).
3 Disconnect the power cables from the POWER and 12VPOWER
connectors (see "System Board Components" on page 103) on the system
board.

4 Remove the airflow shroud (see "Removing the Processor Airflow Shroud
Assembly" on page 148).
5 Push down and out on the socket release lever.
6 Lift the socket release lever and open the processor cover.
1 processor cover 2 processor

3 socket 4 socket release lever
7 Remove the processor from the socket.

Leave the release lever extended in the release position so that the socket is
ready for the new processor.
Installing the Processor

NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of
the computer.
1 Unpack the new processor.
NOTICE: You must position the processor correctly in the socket to avoid
permanent damage to the processor and the computer when you turn on the
computer.
2 If the release lever on the socket is not fully extended, move it to that
position.

3 Align the pin-1 corner of the processor and socket.
4
5
1 processor cover 2 processor 3 socket

4 socket release lever 5 socket pin-1 indicator
NOTICE: Socket pins are delicate. To avoid damage, ensure that the processor is
aligned properly with the socket, and do not use excessive force when you install
the processor. Be careful not to touch or bend the pins on the system board.
4 Set the processor lightly in the socket and ensure that the processor is level
in the socket. When the processor is positioned correctly, press it with
minimal pressure to seat it.
5 When the processor is fully seated in the socket, close the processor
cover.
6 Pivot the socket release lever back toward the socket and snap it into
place to secure the processor.
8 Reconnect the power cables to the POWER and 12VPOWER connectors
(see "System Board Components" on page 103) on the system board.

9 Close the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on

page 172).
10 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
System Board
safety instructions in the Product Information Guide
Removing the System Board

NOTICE: The system board and metal tray are connected and are removed as
one piece.
page 101).
3 Remove any full-length expansion cards (see "Removing a PCI Card" on
page 114 and "Removing a PCI Express Card" on page 121).
4 Remove the two screws securing the card fan assembly, then remove the
processor airflow shroud (see "Removing the Processor Airflow Shroud
Assembly" on page 148) and the Processor fan assembly (see "Removing
the Processor Fan Cage" on page 149 and "Removing the Processor Fan" on
page 151).
5 Remove the card fan assembly (see "Removing the Card Fan" on
page 152).
6 Remove any additional components that may restrict access to the
system board.
7 Disconnect all cables from the system board.
NOTICE: If you are replacing the system board, visually compare the replacement
system board to the existing system board to make sure that you have the correct part.
8 Remove the eight screws securing the system board assembly to the
chassis, slide the system board assembly towards the front of the computer
and lift it up and out.

Installing the System Board

NOTICE: The system board and metal tray are connected and are installed as
one piece.
NOTICE: If you are replacing the system board, visually compare the replacement
system board to the existing system board to make sure that you have the
correct part.
NOTE: Some components and connectors on replacement system boards may be
in different locations than corresponding connectors on the existing system board.
NOTE: Jumper settings on replacement system boards are preset at the factory.
1 Transfer components from the existing system board to the replacement
system board, if applicable.
2 Orient the system board assembly by aligning the notches on the bottom
of the assembly with the tabs on the computer.
3 Slide the system board assembly toward the back of the computer until the
assembly clicks into place.
4 Replace the eight screws to secure the system board assembly to the
chassis.
5 Replace any expansion cards that you removed (see "Installing a PCI Card"
on page 110 and "Installing a PCI Express Card" on page 116).

Shroud Assembly" on page 149) and the Processor Fan assembly (see
"Installing the Processor Fan Cage" on page 150 and "Installing the
Processor Fan" on page 152).
7 Replace the card fan assembly (see "Installing the Card Fan" on page 154).
8 Replace any additional components that you removed from the system
board.
9 Reconnect all cables to the system board.
page 172).
them on.
12 Flash the system BIOS, as needed.
NOTE: For information on flashing the system BIOS, see support.dell.com.

Power Supply
Power Supply (PSU) DC Connector Pin Assignments
DC Power Connector P1
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

375-W Power Supply 425-W Power Supply

Pin Number Signal name 18-AWG Wire Signal name 18-AWG Wire
Color Color
1 +3.3VDC Orange +3.3 VDC Orange
2 +3.3 VDC Orange +3.3 VDC Orange
3 COM Black COM Black
4 +5 VDC Red +5 VDC Red
8 POK Gray POK Gray
9 +5 VFP Purple +5 VFP Purple
10 +12 VBDC White +12 VB DC White
11 +12 VB DC White +12 VB DC White
13 +3.3 VDC/SE4 Orange +3.3 VDC/SE4 Orange
14 -12 VDC Blue -12 VDC Blue
16 PS_ON Green PS_ON Green
20 N/C N/C N/C N/C

3 4
1 2

Color Color
3 +12 VA DC Yellow +12 VA DC Yellow
DC Power Connector P3 and P5
1 2 3 4 5

Color Color
1 +3.3V DC Orange +3.3V DC Orange
3 +5 V DC Red +5 V DC Red

1 2 3 4

Color Color
4 +12 VADC Yellow +12 VADC Yellow
DC Power Connectors P8, P9, P13, and P14
5 4 3 2 1

Color Color
5 +12 VA DC White +12 VB DC White

DC Power Connectors P10
1 2 3 4

Color Color
1 +12 VA DC Yellow +12 VB DC White
DC Power Connectors P12
4 5 6
1 2 3

Color Color
1 +12 VB DC White +12 VC DC Blue/White

DC Power Connector P15 (For 425-W PSU Only)
4 5 6
1 2 3
Pin Number Signal Name 18-AWG Wire Color

1 +12 VC DC Blue/White
4 COM Black
5 COM Black
6 COM Black
NOTE: The P15 connector is intended for use with the PCI Express graphics cards
whose power requirements exceed 75 watts.
Removing the Power Supply

page 101).
NOTICE: Note the location and ID of each power connector before disconnecting
the power supply cables.
3 Follow the DC power cables that stem from the power supply and
disconnect each connected power cable.
NOTE: Note the routing of the power cable bundles as you disconnect them.
You must route these cables properly when you replace them to prevent them
from being pinched or crimped.
4 Remove the four screws that attach the power supply assembly to the back
of the chassis.

5 Press and hold the metal release tab at the bottom of the power supply
unit, push the power supply towards the front of the computer to free it
from the securing tabs on the computer chassis.
6 Gather the power supply bundles that stem from the power supply, for easy
removal and lift it out of the computer.
1 power supply screws (4)
Installing the Power Supply

1 Seat the power supply unit into place, ensuring that the slot bottom of
unit is aligned to tabs on the chassis, then slide it towards the back of the
system till it snaps into place.
2 Replace the four screws that secure the power supply to the back of the
computer chassis.
3 Reattach each of the DC power cables that were previously connected,
carefully rerouting them as you found them.


page 172).
them on.
Front I/O Panel

Front I/O-Panel Components
1
8
7 3
1 add-in audio internal 2 1394a internal 3 power button

connector connector connector
4 front I/O connector 5 microphone-in 6 headphone-out
connector connector
7 USB external ports (2) 8 1394a external port

Removing the Front I/O Panel

page 101).
NOTICE: Carefully note the routing of each cable before you disconnect it, so that
you are sure to re-route cables correctly. An incorrectly routed or a disconnected
cable could lead to computer problems.
3 Remove the front plastic bezel. The bezel has two screws on the bottom of
the chassis which need to be removed. There are also six snap features that
secure the bezel to the front metal wall that must be removed.
5 Remove the Processor fan assembly (see"Removing the Processor Fan
Cage" on page 149 and "Removing the Processor Fan" on page 151) and
the card fan (see"Removing the Card Fan" on page 152).
6 Disconnect the control-panel cable from the I/O panel connector by
pulling the cable loop.
7 Disconnect the power panel cable, 1394 cable, and audio cable (if it exists)
so that the entire front I/O panel is free from all cables.

1 Front I/O panel 2 mounting screws (2)
8 Remove the two screws that hold the I/O panel assembly to the front of
the chassis.
9 Gently ease out the lower end of the I/O assembly first from its groove on
the chassis followed by the upper end.
Installing the Front I/O Panel

NOTICE: Ensure that you replace all cables originally attached to the I/O panel or
you computer may not function properly.
page 101).

3 Align the screw holes on the I/O panel with the screw holes on the chassis,
and replace the two screws.
4 Reconnect the cable that attaches the power button to the I/O panel.
5 Reconnect the 1394 cable, and audio cable (if it exists and you had
removed it).
6 Reconnect the control-panel cable to the I/O panel connector.
7 Replace the front bezel by aligning the six tabs on the corresponding slots
on the front chassis and snapping it back into place. Replace the two
screws that secure the bezel to the bottom of the chassis.
Shroud Assembly" on page 149) and the Processor fan assembly (see
"Installing the Processor Fan Cage" on page 150 and "Installing the
Processor Fan" on page 152).
9 Connect the card fan assembly (see "Installing the Card Fan" on
page 154)to the system board.
page 172).
Coin-Cell Battery
Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery
computer.
A coin-cell battery maintains computer configuration, date, and time
information. The battery can last several years. If you have to repeatedly reset
time and date information after turning on the computer, replace the battery.
CAUTION: A new battery can explode if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the
battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.
Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

To replace the battery:

1 Enter the system setup program and record the values for all the screens
(see "Entering System Setup" on page 179) so that you can restore the
correct settings after installing the new battery.
page 101).
4 Locate the battery socket (see "System Board Components" on page 103).
NOTICE: If you pry the battery out of its socket with a blunt object, be careful not to
touch the system board with the object. Ensure that the object is inserted between
the battery and the socket before you attempt to pry out the battery. Otherwise, you
may damage the system board by prying off the socket or by breaking circuit traces
on the system board.
5 Remove the battery by carefully prying it out of its socket with your fingers
or with a blunt, nonconducting object, such as a plastic screwdriver.
6 Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up,
and then snap the battery into place.
7 Replace the computer cover. (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on
page 172).
3
2
1 coin-cell battery 2 tab 3 battery socket

them on.
9 Enter system setup and restore the settings you recorded in step 1 (see
"Entering System Setup" on page 179).
10 Properly dispose of the old battery. See the Product Information Guide for
battery disposal information.
Replacing the Computer Cover

1 Ensure that all cables are connected, and fold cables out of the way.
Gently pull the power cables toward you so that they do not get caught
underneath the drives.
2 Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer.
3 Lower the cover into place:
a Pivot the cover down.
b Press down on the right side of the cover until it closes.
c Press down on the left side of the cover until it closes.
4 Ensure that both sides of the cover are locked. If not, repeat all of step 3.
them on.

Appendix
Specifications
Processor
Processor type Intel® Core™ 2 Duo
Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme (dual-core processor)
Intel® Core™ 2 Quad (quad-core processor)
Level 2 (L2) Cache Intel® Core™ 2 Duo - 2 MB or 4 MB
Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme - 4 MB or 8 MB
Intel® Core™ 2 Quad - 8 MB
Memory
Type dual-channel 667 and 800-MHz DDR2
Memory connectors four
Memory capacities 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB
Minimum memory 1 GB
Maximum memory 8 GB
NOTE: See "Addressing Memory With 8-GB
Configurations" on page 106 to verify the amount of
memory available to the operating system. 8 GB
memory is available only if you ordered an operating
system that supports 64 bits.
Computer Information
Chipset Intel® X38 Express Chipset/ ICH9R
DMA channels five
Interrupt levels 24
BIOS chip (EEPROM) 8 Mb
Appendix 173
Computer Information (continued)

Memory speed 667/800 MHz
NIC Integrated Gigabit Ethernet 10/100/1000
System clock 800/1066/1333 MHz (depending on processor)
Video
Type PCI Express Gen2 x16
Audio
Type HDA 7.1 channel
Expansion Bus
Bus type PCI Express x1, x8, and x16
PCI 32-bit (PCI specification 2.3)
PCI
Connectors three
Connector size 124 pins
Connector data width 32 bit, version 2.3
(maximum)
Bus speed 33 MHz
PCI Express
Connector one x1
Connector data width 1 PCI Express lane
(maximum)
Bus throughput 1 GB/s
PCI Express
Connector one x16
Connector data width 16 PCI Express lanes
(maximum)
174 Appendix
Expansion Bus (continued)

PCI Express
Connector one x8 (electrically configured for an x4 card)
Connector data width 8 PCI Express lanes
(maximum)
Drives
Available devices Serial ATA drive, floppy drive, memory devices,
Blu-ray Disc™ drive, DVD drive, DVD-RW drive,
CD-RW/DVD combo drive, media card reader, and
Media Xcelerator(optional).
Externally accessible: two 3.5-inch flexbays
two 5.25-inch drive bays
Internally accessible: two 5.25-inch drive bays
two 3.5 HDD bays
Connectors
External connectors:
IEEE 1394a front and back-panel 6-pin serial connectors
Network adapter RJ45 connector
USB two front-panel and six back-panel connectors
eSerial ATA one
Audio seven back-panel connectors for line-in, line-out,
surround, side surround, center/subwoofer Low
Frequency Effects (LFE) channel, and S/PDIF
(optical and RCA); two front-panel connectors for
headphones/microphone
Appendix 175
Connectors (continued)
System board connectors:
Serial ATA five 7-pin connectors
FlexBay 2 port USB header
uDOC 1 port USB header
LCD Dell proprietary USB based LCD header
Fan two 5-pin connectors
PCI three 124-pin connectors
PCI Express x1 36-pin connector
PCI Express x16 164-pin connector
PCI Express x4/x8 98-pin connector
Controls and Lights

Power control push button
Power light blue light — Blinking blue in sleep state; solid blue
for power-on state.
amber light — Blinking amber indicates a problem
with an installed device; solid amber indicates an
internal power problem.
Hard-drive access light blue light — Blinking blue denoting hard drive
activity state.
Network activity light (front solid blue indicates network connection.
panel)
Link integrity light (on green light — A good connection exists between
integrated network adapter) a 10-Mbps network and the computer.
orange light — A good connection exists between
a 100-Mbps network and the computer.
yellow light — A good connection exists between a
1-GB (1000-Mbps) network and the computer.
off (no light) — The computer is not detecting a
physical connection to the network.
176 Appendix
Controls and Lights (continued)

Activity light (on integrated yellow blinking light when there is activity on the
network adapter) network; if there is not any network activity, the light
will be off
Diagnostic lights four blue lights on the top bezel(see "Diagnostic
Lights" on page 76)
Standby power light AUX_PWR_LED on the system board
Power
DC power supply: CAUTION: To reduce the risk of fire, electric
shock, or injury, do not overload an electrical
outlet, power strip, or convenience receptacle.
The total ampere rating of all products plugged
into an electrical outlet, power strip, or other
receptacle should not exceed 80 percent of the
branch circuit rating.
Wattage 375 W or
425 W
Voltage (see the safety 115 V to 230 V
instructions located in the
Product Information Guide)
Backup battery 3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell
Physical
Height 45.03 cm (17.08 in)
Width 187 cm (7.04 in)
Depth 450 cm (17.7 in)
Weight 12.7 kg
Environmental
Temperature:
Operating 10°to 35°C (50° to 95°F)
Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F)
Relative humidity 20% to 80% (noncondensing)
Appendix 177
Environmental (continued)
Maximum vibration:
Operating 0.25 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 0.5 octave/min
Storage 0.5 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1 octave/min
Maximum shock:
Operating bottom half-sine pulse with a change in velocity of
20 inches/sec (50.8 cm/sec)
Storage 27-G faired square wave with a velocity change of
200 inches/sec (508 cm/sec)
Altitude:
Operating −15.2 to 3048 m (−50 to 10,000 ft)
Storage −15.2 to 10,668 m (−50 to 35,000 ft)
System Setup
Overview
Use system setup as follows:
• To change the system configuration information after you add, change, or
remove any hardware in your computer
• To set or change a user-selectable option such as the user password
• To read the current amount of memory or set the type of hard drive
installed
Before you use system setup, it is recommended that you write down the
system setup screen information for future reference.
NOTICE: Do not change the settings in system setup unless you are an expert
computer user. Certain changes can cause your computer to work incorrectly.
178 Appendix
Entering System Setup

2 When the DELL logo appears, press <F2> immediately.
NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down
for extended periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and
release <F2> in even intervals until the system setup screen appears.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to
wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop, then shut down
your computer and try again.
System Setup Screens

The system setup screen displays current or changeable configuration
information for your computer. Information on the screen is divided into
three areas: the options list, the active options field, and key functions.
Options List — This field Options Field — This field appears on

appears on the left side of the the right side of the system setup window
system setup window. The field and contains information about each
is a scrollable list containing option listed in the Options List. In this
features that define the field you can view information about
configuration of your your computer and make changes to your
computer, including installed current settings.
hardware, power conservation, Press the left- and right-arrow keys to
and security features. highlight an option. Press <Enter> to
Scroll up and down the list make that selection active and return to
with the up- and down-arrow the Options List.
keys. As an option is NOTE: Not all settings listed in the Options Field
highlighted, the Options Field are changeable.
displays more information
about that option and the
option’s current and available
settings.
Key Functions — This field appears
below the Options Field and lists keys
and their functions within the active
system setup field.
Appendix 179
System Setup Options

NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this
section may not appear, or may not appear exactly as listed.
System
System Info Lists system information, such as the computer name, the
BIOS version number and date, the system service tag, express
service code and asset tag, and other system-specific
information.
Processor Info Identifies the processor type, clock speed, bus speed, L2 cache,
L3 cache, ID, and whether the processor is multiple core
capable, supports Hyper-Threading and supports 64-bit
technology.
Memory Info Identifies the memory type, speed, and channel mode (dual or
single) by DIMM slot location.
PCI Info Indicates the expansion card type by slot location.
Date/Time Displays current date and time settings.
Boot Sequence The computer attempts to boot from the sequence of devices
specified in this list.
NOTE: If you insert a boot device and restart the computer, this
option appears in the system setup menu. To boot from a USB
memory device, for example, select the USB device and move it
so that it becomes the first device in the boot sequence.
Drives
Diskette Drive Enables and disables the floppy drive attached to the DSKT
(Internal default) connector on the system board and sets read permissions for
the drive.
• Off — All floppy drives are disabled.
• USB — USB floppy drives are enabled
• Internal — The integrated floppy drive is enabled.
• Read Only — The integrated floppy drive is enabled with
read-only access.
NOTE: Operating systems with USB support will recognize USB
floppy drives regardless of this setting.
180 Appendix
SATA Drives 0 Enables or disables drives attached to the SATA connectors on

through 4 the system board.
(On default) • Off — A device attached to the interface is not usable.
• On — A device attached to the interface is usable.
• RAID On - A device attached to the interface is configured
for RAID (see "About Your RAID Configuration" on page 30).
SMART Reporting Determines whether hard-drive errors for internal drives are
(Off default) reported during system startup.
• Off — Errors are not reported.
• On — Errors are reported.
Onboard Devices
Integrated NIC Enables or disables the integrated network interface controller
(On default) (NIC).
• Off — The integrated NIC is disabled.
• On — The integrated NIC is enabled.
• On w/PXE — The integrated NIC is on (with PXE enabled).
NOTE: PXE is required only if you are booting to an operating
system located on another computer. If a boot routine is not
available from the remote system, the computer attempts to
boot from the next device listed in the boot sequence.
Integrated Audio Enables or disables the onboard audio controller.
(On default) • Off — Integrated audio is disabled.
• On — Integrated audio is enabled.
USB Controller Enables or disables the internal USB controller. Set to On
(On default) (default) so that USB devices will be detected and supported
in the operating system.
• Off — The USB controller is disabled.
• On — The USB controller is enabled.
• No Boot — The USB controller is enabled; however, the
BIOS will not recognize USB storage devices.
NOTE: Operating systems with USB support will recognize USB
storage devices regardless of the No Boot setting.
Appendix 181
1394 Controller Enables or disables the integrated IEEE 1394 controller.

(On default) • Off — The 1394 controller is disabled.
• On — The 1394 controller is enabled.
LCD Display Enables or disables the LCD display on the top bezel.
(On default) • Off — The LCD device is disabled.
• On — The LCD device is enabled.
NOTE: When the LCD display is set to On, it starts whenever the
system is powered on.
Performance
Multiple CPU Core Specifies whether the processor has more than one core
(On default) enabled.
• Off — Multiple CPU core technology is disabled.
• On — Multiple CPU core technology is enabled.
NOTE: The performance of some applications may improve with
an additional core enabled.
Advanced Displays processor type and current BIOS settings for
processor clock speed, processor multiplier, front side bus
(FSB) clock, and CPU core voltage. These settings may have
been set by performance tuning applications or may change
depending on settings in performance applications that you
have installed.
For systems with Intel Extreme processors, the following fields
are adjustable through the BIOS:
• Processor Clock Speed: Adjusts the multiplier of the
processor. For processors that cannot be overclocked, this
field reports the current settings and cannot be changed.
• Performance Application Support: Enables software
applications to display and modify key system parameters to
tune system performance. These applications are not
installed or supported by Dell. The default is Off.
NOTE: Pressing <Alt><F> returns your system to the factory
defaults including RAID settings.
182 Appendix
SpeedStep Specifies whether Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® technology is

(Off default) enabled for all supported processors in the system.
• Off — Disable Enhanced SpeedStep technology
• On — Enable Enhanced SpeedStep technology
HDD Acoustic Mode Determines the acoustic mode at which the hard drive
(Bypass default) operates.
• Bypass — Do nothing (needed for older drives).
• Quiet — The hard drive operates at a slower, but quieter
speed.
• Suggested — Allow the hard drive manufacturer to select the
mode.
• Performance — The hard drive operates at a faster, but
possibly noisier speed.
NOTE: Switching to performance mode may cause an increase
in noise produced by the drive, but does not affect the drive’s
performance.
NOTE: Changing the acoustics setting does not alter your hard
drive image.
Security
Admin Password Used to prohibit an unauthorized user from changing any
(Not Set default) configuration settings in the system setup.
System Password Used to prohibit an unauthorized user from booting to the

(Not Set default) operating system.
Password Changes This option locks the system password field with the
(Unlocked default) administrator (admin) password.
NOTE: When the system password field is locked, you can no
longer disable password security by pressing <Ctrl><Enter>
when the computer starts.
Appendix 183
Execute Disable Enables or disables Execute Disable Memory Protection

(On default) technology.
• Off — Execute Disable Memory Protection technology is
disabled.
• On — Execute Disable Memory Protection technology is
enabled.
Power Management
AC Recovery Specifies how the computer will behave when AC power is
(Off default) restored after an AC power loss.
• Off — The system stays off after AC power is restored.
• On — The system powers on after AC power is restored.
• Last — The system returns to the previous state after AC
power is restored.
Auto Power On Disables or selects when to automatically turn on the
(Off default) computer.
• Off — Do not use the Auto Power Time.
• Everyday — Turn the computer on every day at the time set
in Auto Power Time.
• Weekdays — Turn the computer on Monday through Friday
at the time set in Auto Power Time.
NOTE: This feature does not work if you turn off your computer
using a power strip or surge protector.
Auto Power Time Specifies the time to automatically turn on the computer.
Change the time to automatically turn on the computer by
pressing the up- or down-arrow key to increase or decrease the
numbers, or type the numbers in the appropriate time field.
NOTE: This feature does not work if you turn off your computer
using a power strip or surge protector.
Low Power Mode Specifies how aggressive the system is at conserving power
(Off default) while in hibernate mode or turned off.
• Off — Add more functionality.
• On — Conserve more power.
184 Appendix
Suspend Mode Specifies the power management suspend mode.

(S3 default) • S1 — The computer resumes more quickly from sleep mode.
• S3 — The computer conserves more power when not in use
(system memory remains active).
Quick Resume This feature enables/disables the Intel® Viiv™ Quick Resume
Technology.
The default setting is Off.
Maintenance
Service Tag Displays the system service tag.
SERR Message Controls the SERR message mechanism. Some graphics cards
(On default) require that the SERR Message mechanism be disabled.
• Off — Do not use the SERR message mechanism.
• On — Use the SERR message mechanism.
Load Defaults This setting restores the computer’s factory-installed default
settings.
• Cancel — Do not restore factory-installed default settings.
• Continue — Restore factory-installed default settings.
Event Log Displays the system event log.
• Mark all entries — Mark all event log entries as read (R).
• Clear log — Clear all event log entries.
NOTE: Once an event log entry is marked as read (R) that entry
cannot be marked as unread (U).
POST Behavior
Fastboot Enables or disables the option to speed up the boot process by
(On default) skipping certain configurations and tests.
• Off — Do not skip any steps in the boot process.
• On — Boot quickly.
Numlock Key Enables or disables the numerical and mathematical features
(On default) of the rightmost bank of keys on the keyboard.
• Off — Right keypad keys function as arrows.
• On — Right keypad keys function as numbers.
Appendix 185
POST Hotkeys Specifies the function keys to display on the screen when the
(Setup & Boot computer starts.
Menu default) • Setup & Boot Menu — Display both messages (F2=Setup
and F12=Boot Menu).
• Setup — Display the setup message only (F2=Setup).
• Boot Menu — Display the Quickboot message only (F12=
Boot Menu).
• None — Neither message is displayed.
Keyboard Errors Enables or disables keyboard error reporting when the
(Report default) computer starts.
• Report — Display any keyboard errors.
• Do not report — Do not display any keyboard errors.
Boot Sequence
This feature allows you to set the order in which the BIOS will search devices
when trying to find an operating system.
NOTICE: If you modify any boot sequence settings, save the new settings to avoid
losing the changes.
Option Settings
NOTE: The computer attempts to boot from all bootable devices, but if no bootable
device is found, the computer generates an error message that states No boot
device available. Press the <F1> key to retry the boot, or press the <F2> key
to enter the setup utility.
• Onboard or USB Floppy Drive — The computer attempts to boot from
the floppy drive. If there is no floppy in the drive or there is no floppy drive
installed, the computer attempts to boot from the next bootable device in
the sequence.
NOTE: If there is a non-bootable floppy in the drive, the computer generates
an error message. Follow the on-screen instructions to retry the boot.
• Onboard SATA Hard Drive — The computer attempts to boot from the
primary hard drive. If no operating system is on the drive, the computer
attempts to boot from the next bootable device.
186 Appendix
• Onboard or USB CD-ROM Drive — The computer attempts to boot

from the CD drive. If no CD is in the drive, or if the CD has no operating
system, the computer attempts to boot from the next bootable device.
• USB Device — Insert the memory device into a USB port and restart the
computer. When F12 = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right corner of
the screen, press <F12>. The BIOS detects the device and adds the USB
option to the boot menu.
NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To ensure that
your device is bootable, check the device documentation.
Changing Boot Sequence for the Current Boot

You can use this feature, for example, to restart your computer to a USB
device such as a floppy drive, memory key, or CD-RW drive.
NOTE: If you are booting to a USB floppy drive, you must first set the floppy drive to
OFF in system setup (see "System Setup Options" on page 180).
1 If you are booting to a USB device, connect the USB device to a USB
connector (see "Front View" on page 15).
3 When F2 = Setup, F12 = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right
corner of the screen, press <F12>.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to
wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop, then shut down your
computer (see "Before You Begin" on page 99) and try again.
The Boot Device Menu appears, listing all available boot devices. Each
device has a number next to it.
4 At the bottom of the menu, enter the number of the device that is to be
used for the current boot only.
For example, if you are booting to a USB memory key, highlight USB
Device and press <Enter>.
NOTE: To boot to a USB device, the device must be bootable. To make sure
your device is bootable, check the device documentation.
Appendix 187
Changing Boot Sequence for Future Boots

2 Use the arrow keys to highlight the Boot Sequence menu option and press
<Enter> to access the menu.
NOTE: Write down your current boot sequence in case you want to restore it.
3 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to move through the list of devices.
4 Press the spacebar to enable or disable a device (enabled devices have a
checkmark).
5 Press plus (+) or minus (–) to move a selected device up or down the list.
Clearing Forgotten Passwords

NOTICE: This process erases both the system and setup passwords.
page 101).
188 Appendix
3 Locate the RTCRST_PSWD jumper on the system board (see "System

Board Components" on page 103), then remove the jumper plug (located
on pins three and four) and set the plug aside.
4 Close the computer cover.
5 Connect your keyboard and mouse, then connect your computer and
monitor to electrical outlets and turn them on.
6 After the Microsoft® Windows® desktop appears on your computer, turn
the computer off:
a Save and close all open files and exit all open programs.
b Shut down the operating system:
• In Windows Vista, click Start , click the arrow in the lower-
right corner of the Start menu as shown below, and then click
Shut Down.
is complete.
NOTE: Ensure that the computer is off and not in a power management mode.
If you cannot shut down the computer using the operating system, press and
hold the power button for 4 seconds.
7 Disconnect the keyboard and mouse, then disconnect the computer and
monitor from their electrical outlets.
8 Press the power button on the computer to ground the system board.
9 Open the computer cover (see "Removing the Computer Cover" on
page 101).
NOTICE: The password jumper plug must be reinstalled on the password jumper
pins in order to enable the password feature.
10 Locate pins three and four of the RTCRST_PSWD jumper on the system
board (see "System Board Components" on page 103), and then reinstall
the jumper plug to enable the password feature.
Appendix 189

page 172).
them on.
NOTE: In system setup (see "Entering System Setup" on page 179), both system and
administrator password options appear as Not Set. The password feature is
enabled but a password is not assigned.
Clearing CMOS Settings

NOTE: This procedure clears and resets system and setup passwords.
page 101).
3 Locate the RTCRST_PSWD jumper on the system board (see "System
Board Components" on page 103).
4 Remove the password jumper plug (located on pins three and four), then
place the plug on the CMOS jumper pins (pins one and two)and wait
approximately 5 seconds.
NOTICE: The password jumper plug must be reinstalled on the password jumper
pins in order to enable the password feature.
5 Remove the jumper plug from the RTCRST_PSWD jumper, and then
reinstall the plug on the pins three and four to enable the password
feature.
6 Close the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on
page 172).
them on.
190 Appendix
Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor

CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the
electrical outlet. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain
flammable substances.
NOTE: It is recommended that you use the wipedown cloth, included as part of the
accessories, to wipe your system without scratching the glossy exterior.
• Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from between the keys on the
keyboard.
NOTICE: Do not wipe the display screen with any soap or alcohol solution. Doing
so may damage the antiglare coating.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer or display, do not spray cleaning solution
directly onto the display. Only use products specifically designed for cleaning
displays, and follow the instructions that are included with the product.
• To clean your monitor screen, lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth with water.
If possible, use a special screen-cleaning tissue or solution suitable for the
monitor’s antistatic coating.
• Wipe the keyboard, computer, and plastic part of the monitor with a soft
cleaning cloth moistened with water.
Do not soak the cloth or let water drip inside your computer or keyboard.
Mouse
If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse. To clean a
non-optical mouse:
1 Turn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counterclockwise,
and then remove the ball.
2 Wipe the ball with a clean, lint-free cloth.
3 Blow carefully into the ball cage to dislodge dust and lint.
4 If the rollers inside the ball cage are dirty, clean the rollers with a cotton
swab moistened lightly with isopropyl alcohol.
Appendix 191
5 Recenter the rollers in their channels if they are misaligned. Ensure that
fluff from the swab is not left on the rollers.
6 Replace the ball and retainer ring, and turn the retainer ring clockwise
until it clicks into place.
Floppy Drive
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. The heads may become
misaligned and prevent the drive from operating.
Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These
kits contain pretreated floppy disks to remove contaminants that accumulate
during normal operation.
CDs and DVDs

NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the optical drive, and
follow the instructions that come with the compressed air. Never touch the lens in
the drive.
If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your
discs, try cleaning the discs.
1 Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the
center hole.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around
the disc.
2 With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc
(the unlabeled side) in a straight line from the center to the outer edge of
the disc.
For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild
soap. You can also purchase commercial products that clean discs and
provide some protection from dust, fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning
products for CDs are safe to use on DVDs.
192 Appendix
FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) as Class B digital devices. To determine which
classification applies to your computer system, examine all FCC registration
labels located on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, on card-
mounting brackets, and on the cards themselves. If any one of the labels
carries a Class A rating, your entire system is considered to be a Class A digital
device. If all labels carry an FCC Class B rating as distinguished by either an
FCC ID number or the FCC logo, ( ), your system is considered to be a
Class B digital device.
Once you have determined your system’s FCC classification, read the
appropriate FCC notice. Note that FCC regulations provide that changes or
modifications not expressly approved by Dell could void your authority to
operate this equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
1 This device may not cause harmful interference.
2 This device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Class A
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction manual, may
cause harmful interference with radio communications. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in
which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own
expense.
Appendix 193
Class B
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instruction manual, may cause interference with radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.
FCC Identification Information

The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this
document in compliance with FCC regulations:
• Product name: Dell™ XPS™ 420
• Model number: DC01L
Company name:
Dell Inc.
One Dell Way
Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA
512-338-4400
194 Appendix
Getting Help
Obtaining Assistance
CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer cover, first disconnect the
computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets.
If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the
following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem:
1 See "Troubleshooting" on page 61 for information and procedures that
pertain to the problem your computer is experiencing.
2 See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 86 for procedures on how to run Dell
Diagnostics.
3 Fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" on page 199.
4 Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support
(support.dell.com) for help with installation and troubleshooting
procedures. See "Online Services" on page 196 for a more extensive list of
Dell Support online.
5 If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see "Contacting
Dell" on page 200.
NOTE: Call Dell Support from a telephone near or at the computer so that the
support staff can assist you with any necessary procedures.
NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.
When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express
Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do
not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder, double-click
the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.
For instructions on using the Dell Support, see "Technical Support and
Customer Service" on page 196.
NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations
outside the continental U.S. Call your local Dell representative for information on
availability.
Appendix 195
Technical Support and Customer Service

Dell's support service is available to answer your questions about Dell™ hardware.
Our support staff uses computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers.
To contact Dell's support service, see "Before You Call" on page 198, and then
see 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 information, go
to support.dell.com and click DellConnect.
Online Services
You can learn about 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 through the following websites and e-mail addresses:
• Dell Support websites
support.dell.com
support.jp.dell.com (Japan only)
support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)
• Dell Support e-mail addresses
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected] (Latin America and Caribbean countries only)
[email protected] (Asian/Pacific countries only)
196 Appendix
• Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses

[email protected] (Asian/Pacific countries only)
[email protected] (Canada only)
• Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)
ftp.dell.com
Log in as user: anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.
AutoTech Service
Dell's automated support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the
questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and
desktop computers.
When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects
that correspond to your questions. For the telephone number to call for your
region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 200.
Automated Order-Status Service

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. For
the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 200.
Problems With Your Order

If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or
incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or
packing slip handy when you call. For the telephone number to call for your
region, see "Contacting Dell" on page 200.
Product Information
If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you
would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For the
telephone number to call for your region or to speak to a sales specialist, see the
"Contacting Dell" on page 200.
Appendix 197
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:
1 Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it
clearly and prominently on the outside of the box.
For the telephone number to call for your region, see "Contacting Dell" on
page 200.
2 Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.
3 Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist"
on page 199), indicating the tests that you have run and any error
messages reported by the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on
page 86).
4 Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (power
cables, software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if the return is for credit.
5 Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing
materials.
You are 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.
Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at
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).
Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see "Diagnostics Checklist" on
page 199). If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance
and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type
some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations,
or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the computer itself. Ensure
that the computer documentation is available.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, follow the safety instructions in
your Product Information Guide.
198 Appendix
Diagnostics Checklist
Name:
Date:
Address:
Phone number:
Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer):
Express Service Code:
Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):
Operating system and version:
Devices:
Expansion cards:
Are you connected to a network? Yes No
Network, version, and network adapter:
Programs and versions:
See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the

system’s start-up files. 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:
Appendix 199
Contacting Dell
NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact
information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.
Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options.
Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be
available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or
customer service issues:
1 Visit support.dell.com.
2 Verify your country or region in the Choose A Country/Region drop-down
menu at the bottom of the page.
3 Click Contact Us on the left side of the page.
4 Select the appropriate service or support link based on your need.
Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.
200 Appendix
Glossary
Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may
or may not describe features included with your particular computer.
A
AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when
you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet.
ACPI — advanced configuration and power interface — A power management
specification that enables Microsoft® Windows® operating systems to put a computer
in standby or hibernate mode to conserve the amount of electrical power allocated to
each device attached to the computer.
AGP — accelerated graphics port — A dedicated graphics port that allows system
memory to be used for video-related tasks. AGP delivers a smooth, true-color video
image because of the faster interface between the video circuitry and the 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.
antivirus software — A program designed to identify, quarantine, and/or delete viruses
from your computer.
ASF — alert standards format — A standard to define a mechanism for reporting
hardware and software alerts to a management console. ASF is designed to be
platform- and operating system-independent.
Glossary 201
B
battery life span — The length of time (years) during which a portable computer
battery is able to be depleted and recharged.
battery operating time — The length of time (minutes or hours) that a portable
computer battery powers the computer.
BIOS — basic input/output system — A program (or utility) that serves as an
interface between the computer hardware and the operating system. Unless you
understand what effect these settings have on the computer, do not change them. Also
referred to as system setup.
bit — The smallest unit of data interpreted by your computer.
Blu-ray Disc™ (BD)— An optical storage technology offering storage capacity of up
to 50 GB, full 1080p video resolution (HDTV required), and as many as 7.1 channels
of native, uncompressed surround sound.
Bluetooth® wireless technology — A wireless technology standard for short-range
(9 m [29 feet]) networking devices that allows for enabled devices to automatically
recognize each other.
boot sequence — Specifies the order of the devices from which the computer
attempts to boot.
bootable media — A CD, DVD, or floppy disk that you can use to start your
computer. In case your hard drive is damaged or your computer has a virus, ensure that
you always have a bootable CD, DVD, or floppy disk available. Your Drivers and
Utilities media is an example of bootable media.
bps — bits per second — The standard unit for measuring data transmission speed.
BTU — British thermal unit — A measurement of heat output.
bus — A communication pathway between the components in your computer.
bus speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast a bus can transfer
information.
byte — The basic data unit used by your computer. A byte is usually equal to 8 bits.
C
C — Celsius — A temperature measurement scale where 0° is the freezing point and
100° is the boiling point of water.
cache — A special high-speed storage mechanism which can be either a reserved
section of main memory or an independent high-speed storage device. The cache
enhances the efficiency of many processor operations.
202 Glossary
L1 cache — Primary cache stored inside the processor.

L2 cache — Secondary cache which can either be external to the processor or
incorporated into the processor architecture.
carnet — An international customs document that facilitates temporary imports into
foreign countries. Also known as a merchandise passport.
CD-R — CD recordable — A recordable version of a CD. Data can be recorded only
once onto a CD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.
CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a
CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten).
CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs)
and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but
you can write to CD-R discs only once.
CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read
CDs and DVDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs)
discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs
only once.
clock speed — The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast computer
components that are connected to the system bus operate.
CMOS — A type of electronic circuit. Computers use a small amount of battery-
powered CMOS memory to hold date, time, and system setup 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 allows you to modify operating system and
hardware settings, such as display settings.
controller — A chip that controls the transfer of data between the processor and
memory or between the processor and devices.
CRIMM — continuity rambus in-line memory module — A special module that has
no memory chips and is used to fill unused RIMM slots.
cursor — The marker on a display or screen that shows where the next keyboard, touch
pad, or mouse action will occur. It often is a blinking solid line, an underline character,
or a small arrow.
Glossary 203
D
DDR SDRAM — double-data-rate SDRAM — A type of SDRAM that doubles the
data burst cycle, improving system performance.
DDR2 SDRAM — double-data-rate 2 SDRAM — A type of DDR SDRAM that uses a
4-bit prefetch and other architectural changes to boost memory speed to over
400 MHz.
device — Hardware such as a disk drive, printer, or keyboard that is installed in or
connected to your computer.
device driver — See driver.
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, six-pin connector that conforms to DIN (Deutsche
Industrie-Norm) standards; it is typically used to connect PS/2 keyboard or mouse
cable connectors.
disk striping — A technique for spreading data over multiple disk drives. Disk striping
can speed up operations that retrieve data from disk storage. Computers that use disk
striping generally allow the user to select the data unit size or stripe width.
DMA — direct memory access — A channel that allows certain types of data transfer
between RAM and a device to bypass the processor.
docking device — See APR.
DMTF — Distributed Management Task Force — A consortium of hardware and
software companies who develop management standards for distributed desktop,
network, enterprise, and Internet environments.
domain — A group of computers, programs, and devices on a network that are
administered as a unit with common rules and procedures for use by a specific group
of users. A user logs on to the domain to gain access to the resources.
DRAM — dynamic random-access memory — Memory that stores information in
integrated circuits containing capacitors.
driver — Software that allows the operating system to control a device such as a
printer. Many devices do not work properly if the correct driver is not installed in the
computer.
DSL — Digital Subscriber Line — A technology that provides a constant, high-speed
Internet connection through an analog telephone line.
dual-core — A technology in which two physical computational units exist inside a
single processor package, thereby increasing computing efficiency and multi-tasking
ability.
204 Glossary
dual display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as an
extension of your display. Also referred to as extended display mode.
DVD-R — DVD recordable — A recordable version of a DVD. Data can be recorded
only once onto a DVD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.
DVD+RW — DVD rewritable — A rewritable version of a DVD. Data can be written
to a DVD+RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). (DVD+RW
technology is different from DVD-RW technology.)
DVD+RW drive — drive that can read DVDs and most CD media and write to
DVD+RW (rewritable DVDs) discs.
DVI — digital video interface — A standard for digital transmission between a
computer and a digital video display.
E
ECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special
circuitry for testing the accuracy of data as it passes in and out of memory.
ECP — extended capabilities port — A parallel connector design that provides
improved bidirectional data transmission. Similar to EPP, ECP uses direct memory
access to transfer data and often improves performance.
EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE
interface for hard drives and CD drives.
EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical interference caused by
electromagnetic radiation.
ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency requirements that decrease
the overall consumption of electricity.
EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector design that provides
bidirectional data transmission.
ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of static electricity. ESD can
damage integrated circuits found in computer and communications equipment.
expansion card — A circuit board that installs in an expansion slot on the system
board in some computers, expanding the capabilities of the computer. Examples
include video, modem, and sound cards.
expansion slot — A connector on the system board (in some computers) where you
insert an expansion card, connecting it to the system bus.
ExpressCard — A removable I/O card adhering to the PCMCIA standard. Modems
and network adapters are common types of ExpressCards. ExpressCards support both
the PCI Express and USB 2.0 standard.
Glossary 205
Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™

computer. Use the Express Service Code when contacting Dell for assistance. Express
Service Code service may not be available in some countries.
extended display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as
an extension of your display. Also referred to as dual display mode.
extended PC Card — A PC Card that extends beyond the edge of the PC Card slot
when installed.
F
Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale where 32° is the freezing point and
212° is the boiling point of water.
FBD — fully-buffered DIMM — A DIMM with DDR2 DRAM chips and an
Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) that speeds communication between the DDR2
SDRAM chips and the system.
FCC — Federal Communications Commission — A U.S. agency responsible for
enforcing communications-related regulations that state how much radiation
computers and other electronic equipment can emit.
fingerprint reader — A strip sensor that uses your unique fingerprint to authenticate
your user identity to help secure your computer.
folder — A term used to describe space on a disk or drive where files are organized and
grouped. Files in a folder can be viewed and ordered in various ways, such as
alphabetically, by date, and by size.
format — The process that prepares a drive or disk for file storage. When a drive or
disk is formatted, the existing information on it is lost.
FSB — front side bus — The data path and physical interface between the processor
and RAM.
FTP — file transfer protocol — A standard Internet protocol used to exchange files
between computers connected to the Internet.
G
G — gravity — A measurement of weight and force.
GB — gigabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1024 MB
(1,073,741,824 bytes). When used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often
rounded to 1,000,000,000 bytes.
206 Glossary
GHz — gigahertz — A measurement of frequency that equals one thousand million

Hz, or one thousand MHz. The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces
are often measured in GHz.
graphics mode — A video mode that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical
pixels by z colors. Graphics modes can display an unlimited variety of shapes and
fonts.
GUI — graphical user interface — Software that interacts with the user by means of
menus, windows, and icons. 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. The terms hard drive
and hard disk are often used interchangeably.
heat sink — A metal plate on some processors that helps dissipate heat.
hibernate mode — A power management mode that saves everything in memory to a
reserved space on the hard drive and then turns off the computer. When you restart
the computer, the memory information that was saved to the hard drive is
automatically restored.
HTTP — hypertext transfer protocol — A protocol for exchanging files between
computers connected to the Internet.
Hyper-Threading — Hyper-Threading is an Intel technology that can enhance overall
computer performance by allowing one physical processor to function as two logical
processors, capable of performing certain tasks simultaneously.
Hz — hertz — A unit of frequency measurement that equals 1 cycle per second.
Computers and electronic devices are often measured in kilohertz (kHz), megahertz
(MHz), gigahertz (GHz), or terahertz (THz).
I
IC — integrated circuit — A semiconductor wafer, or chip, on which thousands or
millions of 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, Inc. — A high-
performance serial bus used to connect IEEE 1394-compatible devices, such as digital
cameras and DVD players, to the computer.
Glossary 207
infrared sensor — A port that allows you to transfer data between the computer and
infrared-compatible devices without using a cable connection.
integrated — Usually refers to components that are physically located on the
computer’s system board. Also referred to as built-in.
I/O — input/output — An operation or device that enters and extracts data from your
computer. Keyboards and printers are I/O devices.
I/O address — An address in RAM that is associated with a specific device (such as a
serial connector, parallel connector, or expansion slot) and allows the processor to
communicate with that device.
IrDA — Infrared Data Association — The organization that creates international
standards for infrared communications.
IRQ — interrupt request — An electronic pathway assigned to a specific device so
that the device can communicate with the processor. Each device connection must be
assigned an IRQ. Although two devices can share the same IRQ assignment, you
cannot operate both devices simultaneously.
ISP — Internet service provider — A company that allows you to access its host server
to connect directly to the Internet, send and receive e-mail, and access websites. The
ISP typically provides you with a software package, user name, and access phone
numbers for a fee.
K
Kb — kilobit — A unit of data that equals 1024 bits. A measurement of the capacity of
memory integrated circuits.
KB — kilobyte — A unit of data that equals 1024 bytes but is often referred to as
1000 bytes.
key combination — A command requiring you to press multiple keys at the same
time.
kHz — kilohertz — A measurement of frequency that equals 1000 Hz.
L
LAN — local area network — A computer network covering a small area. A LAN
usually is confined to a building or a few nearby buildings. A LAN can be connected to
another LAN over any distance through telephone lines and radio waves to form a
wide area network (WAN).
LCD — liquid crystal display — The technology used by portable computer and flat-
panel displays.
208 Glossary
LED — light-emitting diode — An electronic component that emits light to indicate

the status of the computer.
local bus — A data bus that provides a fast throughput for devices to the processor.
LPT — line print terminal — The designation for a parallel connection to a printer or
other parallel device.
M
Mb — megabit — A measurement of memory chip capacity that equals 1024 Kb.
Mbps — megabits per second — One million bits per second. This measurement is
typically used for transmission speeds for networks and modems.
MB — megabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB
equals 1024 KB. When used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often rounded to
1,000,000 bytes.
MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes per second. This measurement
is typically 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 files while
you are working on them, and always save your files before you shut down the
computer. Your computer can contain several different forms of memory, such as
RAM, ROM, and video memory. Frequently, the word memory is used as a synonym
for RAM.
memory address — A specific location where data is temporarily stored in RAM.
memory mapping — The process by which the computer assigns memory addresses to
physical locations at start-up. Devices and software can then identify information that
the processor can access.
memory module — A small circuit board containing memory chips, which connects to
the system board.
MHz — megahertz — A measure of frequency that equals 1 million cycles per second.
The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in MHz.
Mini PCI — A standard for integrated peripheral devices with an emphasis on
communications such as modems and NICs. A Mini PCI card is a small external card
that is functionally equivalent to a standard PCI expansion card.
Glossary 209
Mini-Card — A small card designed for integrated peripherals, such as

communication NICs. The Mini-Card is functionally equivalent to a standard PCI
expansion card.
modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers
over analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, and
internal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail.
module bay — See media bay.
MP — megapixel — A measure of image resolution used for digital cameras.
ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second.
Access times of storage devices are often measured in ms.
N
network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may
include a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an
adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interface
controller).
NIC — See network adapter.
notification area — The section of the Windows taskbar that contains icons for
providing quick access to programs and computer functions, such as the clock, volume
control, and print status. Also referred to as system tray.
ns — nanosecond — A measure of time that equals one billionth of a second.
NVRAM — nonvolatile random access memory — A type of memory that stores data
when the computer is turned off or loses its external power source. NVRAM is used for
maintaining computer configuration information such as date, time, and other system
setup options that you can set.
O
optical drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read or write data from CDs,
DVDs, or DVD+RWs. Example of optical drives include CD drives, DVD drives,
CD-RW drives, and CD-RW/DVD combo drives.
P
parallel connector — An I/O port often used to connect a parallel printer to your
computer. Also referred to as an LPT port.
210 Glossary
partition — A physical storage area on a hard drive that is assigned to one or more
logical storage areas known as logical drives. Each partition can contain multiple
logical drives.
PC Card — A removable I/O card adhering to the PCMCIA standard. Modems and
network adapters are common types of PC Cards.
PCI — peripheral component interconnect — PCI is a local bus that supports 32-and
64-bit data paths, providing a high-speed data path between the processor and devices
such as video, drives, and networks.
PCI Express — A modification to the PCI interface that boosts the data transfer rate
between the processor and the devices attached to it. PCI Express can transfer data at
speeds from 250 MB/sec to 4 GB/sec. If the PCI Express chip set and the device are
capable of different speeds, they will operate at the slower speed.
PCMCIA — Personal Computer Memory Card International Association — The
organization that establishes standards for PC Cards.
PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two
devices through the processor as part of the data path.
pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are arranged in rows and columns to
create an image. A video resolution, such as 800 x 600, is expressed as the number of
pixels across by the number of pixels up and down.
Plug-and-Play — The ability of the computer to automatically configure devices. Plug
and Play provides automatic installation, configuration, and compatibility with
existing hardware if the BIOS, operating system, and all devices are Plug and Play
compliant.
POST — Power-On Self-Test — Diagnostics programs, loaded automatically by the
BIOS, that perform basic tests on 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 unit).
PS/2 — personal system/2 — A type of connector for attaching a PS/2-compatible
keyboard, mouse, or keypad.
PXE — pre-boot execution environment — A WfM (Wired for Management)
standard that allows networked computers that do not have an operating system to be
configured and started remotely.
Glossary 211
R
RAID — redundant array of independent disks — A method of providing data
redundancy. Some common implementations of RAID include RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 5, RAID 10, and RAID 50.
RAM — random-access memory — The primary temporary storage area for program
instructions and data. Any information stored in RAM is lost when you shut down your
computer.
readme file — A text file included with a software package or hardware product.
Typically, readme files provide installation information and describe new product
enhancements or corrections that have not yet been documented.
read-only — Data and/or files you can view but cannot edit or delete. A file can have
read-only status if:
• It resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
• It is located on a network in a directory and the system administrator has assigned
rights only to specific individuals.
refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines
are recharged (sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency). The higher the
refresh rate, the less video flicker can be seen by the human eye.
resolution — The sharpness and clarity of an image produced by a printer or displayed
on a monitor. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image.
RFI — radio frequency interference — Interference that is generated at typical radio
frequencies, in the range of 10 kHz to 100,000 MHz. Radio frequencies are at the
lower end of the electromagnetic frequency spectrum and are more likely to have
interference than the higher frequency radiations, such as infrared and light.
ROM — read-only memory — Memory that stores data and programs that cannot be
deleted or written to by the computer. ROM, unlike RAM, retains its contents after
you shut down your computer. Some programs essential to the operation of your
computer reside in ROM.
RPM — revolutions per minute — The number of rotations that occur per minute.
Hard 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.
212 Glossary
S
SAS — serial attached SCSI — A faster, serial version of the SCSI interface (as
opposed to the original SCSI parallel architecture).
SATA — serial ATA — A faster, serial version of the ATA (IDE) interface.
ScanDisk — A Microsoft utility that checks files, folders, and the hard disk’s surface
for errors. ScanDisk often runs when you restart the computer after it has stopped
responding.
SCSI — small computer system interface — A high-speed interface used to connect
devices to a computer, such as hard drives, CD drives, printers, and scanners. The
SCSI can connect many devices using a single controller. Each device is accessed by an
individual identification number on the SCSI controller bus.
SDRAM — synchronous dynamic random-access memory — A type of DRAM that is
synchronized with the optimal clock speed of the processor.
serial connector — An I/O port often used to connect devices such as a handheld
digital device or digital camera to your computer.
Service Tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when
you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service
or technical support.
setup program — A program that is used to install and configure hardware and
software. The setup.exe or install.exe program comes with most Windows software
packages. Setup program differs from system setup.
shortcut — An icon that provides quick access to frequently used programs, files,
folders, and drives. When you place a shortcut on your Windows desktop and double-
click the icon, you can open its corresponding folder or file without having to find it
first. Shortcut icons do not change the location of files. If you delete a shortcut, the
original file is not affected. Also, you can rename a shortcut icon.
SIM — Subscriber Identity Module — A SIM card contains a microchip that encrypts
voice and data transmissions. SIM cards can be used in phones or portable computers.
smart card — A card that is embedded with a processor and a memory chip. Smart
cards can be used to authenticate a user on computers equipped for smart cards.
S/PDIF — Sony/Philips Digital Interface — An audio transfer file format that allows
the transfer of audio from one file to another without converting it to and from an
analog format, which could degrade the quality of the file.
standby mode — A power management mode that shuts down all unnecessary
computer operations to save energy.
Glossary 213
StrikeZone™ — Reinforced area of the platform base that protects the hard drive by
acting as a dampening device when a computer experiences resonating shock or is
dropped (whether the computer is on or off).
surge protectors — Prevent voltage spikes, such as those that may occur during an
electrical storm, from entering the computer through the electrical outlet. Surge
protectors do not protect against lightning strikes or against brownouts, which occur
when the voltage drops more than 20 percent below the normal AC-line voltage level.
Network connections cannot be protected by surge protectors. Always disconnect the
network cable from the network connector during electrical storms.
SVGA — super-video graphics array — A video standard for video cards and
controllers. Typical SVGA resolutions are 800 x 600 and 1024 x 768.
The number of colors and resolution that a program displays depends on the
capabilities of the monitor, the video controller and its drivers, and the amount of
video memory installed in the computer.
S-video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or digital audio device to the
computer.
SXGA — super-extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and
controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 1024.
SXGA+ — super-extended graphics array plus — A video standard for video cards and
system board — The main circuit board in your computer. Also known as the
motherboard.
system setup — A utility that serves as an interface between the computer hardware
and the operating system. System setup allows you to configure user-selectable options
in the BIOS, such as date and time or system password. Unless you understand what
effect the settings have on the computer, do not change the settings for this program.
T
TAPI — telephony application programming interface — Enables Windows programs
to operate with a wide variety of telephony devices, including voice, data, fax, and
video.
text editor — A program used to create and edit files that contain only text; for
example, Windows Notepad uses a text editor. Text editors do not usually provide
word wrap or formatting functionality (the option to underline, change fonts, and so on).
214 Glossary
TPM — trusted platform module — A hardware-based security feature that when

combined with security software enhances network and computer security by enabling
features such as file and e-mail protection.
travel module — A plastic device designed to fit inside the module bay of a portable
computer to reduce the weight of the computer.
U
UAC — user account control— Microsoft Windows Vista™ security feature that,
when enabled, provides an added layer of security between user accounts and access to
operating system settings.
UMA — unified memory allocation — System memory dynamically allocated to
video.
UPS — uninterruptible power supply — A backup power source used when the
electrical power fails or drops to an unacceptable voltage level. A UPS keeps a
computer running for a limited amount of time when there is no electrical power. UPS
systems typically provide surge suppression and may also provide voltage regulation.
Small UPS systems provide battery power for a few minutes to enable you to shut
down your computer.
USB — universal serial bus — A hardware interface for a low-speed device such as a
USB-compatible keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner, set of speakers, printer,
broadband devices (DSL and cable modems), imaging devices, or storage devices.
Devices are plugged directly in to a 4-pin socket on your computer or in to a multi-port
hub that plugs in to your computer. USB devices can be connected and disconnected
while the computer is turned on, and they can also be daisy-chained together.
UTP — unshielded twisted pair — Describes a type of cable used in most telephone
networks and some computer networks. Pairs of unshielded wires are twisted to protect
against electromagnetic interference, rather than relying on a metal sheath around
each pair of wires to protect against interference.
UXGA — ultra extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and
V
video controller — The circuitry on a video card or on the system board (in computers
with an integrated video controller) that provides the video capabilities—in
combination with the monitor—for your computer.
Glossary 215
video memory — Memory that consists of memory chips dedicated to video functions.
Video memory is usually faster than system memory. The amount of video memory
installed primarily influences the number of colors that a program can display.
video mode — A mode that describes how text and graphics are displayed on a
monitor. Graphics-based software, such as Windows operating systems, displays in
video modes that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors.
Character-based software, such as text editors, displays in video modes that can be
defined as x columns by y rows of characters.
video resolution — See resolution.
virus — A program that is designed to inconvenience you or to destroy data stored on
your computer. A virus program moves from one computer to another through an
infected disk, software downloaded from the Internet, or e-mail attachments. When
an infected program starts, its embedded virus also starts.
A common type of virus is a boot virus, which is stored in the boot sectors of a floppy
disk. If the floppy disk is left in the drive when the computer is shut down and then
turned on, the computer is infected when it reads the boot sectors of the floppy disk
expecting to find the operating system. If the computer is infected, the boot virus may
replicate itself onto all the floppy disks that are read or written in that computer until
the virus is eradicated.
V — volt — The measurement of electric potential or electromotive force. One V
appears across a resistance of 1 ohm when a current of 1 ampere flows through that
resistance.
W
W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One W is 1 ampere of current
flowing at 1 volt.
WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure 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 your favorite
picture and make it wallpaper.
WLAN — wireless local area network. A series of interconnected computers that
communicate with each other over the air waves using access points or wireless routers
to provide Internet access.
216 Glossary
write-protected — Files or media that cannot be changed. Use write-protection when

you want to protect data from being changed or destroyed. To write-protect a 3.5-inch
floppy disk, slide its write-protect tab to the open position.
WWAN — wireless wide area network. A wireless high-speed data network using
cellular technology and covering a much larger geographic area than WLAN.
WXGA — wide-aspect extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards
and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 800."
X
XGA — extended graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers
that supports resolutions up to 1024 x 768.
Z
ZIF — zero insertion force — A type of socket or connector that allows a computer
chip to be installed or removed with no stress applied to either the chip or its socket.
Zip — A popular data compression format. Files that have been compressed with the
Zip format are called Zip files and usually have a filename extension of .zip. A special
kind of zipped file is a self-extracting file, which has a filename extension of .exe. You
can unzip a self-extracting file by double-clicking it.
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 217
218 Glossary
Index
A CDs
playing, 42
audio. See sound
Check Disk, 63
cleaning your computer, 191
B CMOS settings
battery clearing, 190
problems, 61 computer
replacing, 170 beep codes, 81
beep codes, 81 components inside, 102
crashes, 66-67
BIOS, 178
inside view, 102
boot sequence stops responding, 66
about, 186
conflicts
changing, 187-188
software and hardware
option settings, 186
incompatibilities, 93
booting
connectors
to a USB device, 187
headphone, 18
IEEE, 16, 18
network adapter, 21
C power, 19
cards USB, 18
installing PCI Express, 116 contacting Dell, 200
PCI Express, 115
copying CDs
removing PCI, 114
helpful tips, 46
removing PCI Express, 121
how to, 44-45
slots, 20
copying DVDs
CD-RW drive
helpful tips, 46
problems, 62
how to, 44-45
Index 219
cover drive-panel insert

replacing, 172 removing, 125
CPU overclocking, 59 replacing, 126
drivers
about, 90
D identifying, 91
reinstalling, 91
Dell
contacting, 193, 200 Drivers and Utilities Media, 92
support site, 13 drives
Dell Diagnostics, 86 problems, 62
RAID, 30
Dell Premier Support website, 12
dual graphics technology, 59
DellConnect, 196
dual monitors, 25
Device Driver Rollback, 91
DVDs
diagnostic lights, 76
playing, 42
diagnostics
beep codes, 81
Dell, 86 E
lights, 76
e-mail
display. See monitor
problems, 63
documentation
End User License Agreement, 12
End User License Agreement, 12
ergonomics, 12 ergonomics information, 12
online, 13 error messages
Product Information Guide, 12 beep codes, 81
regulatory, 12 diagnostic lights, 76
safety, 12 problems, 64
warranty, 12 system, 83
drive panel, 124
removing, 124
replacing, 127 F
Factory Image Restore, 95
220 Index
G Internet connection
about, 54
Graphics
options, 54
Dual Graphics, 59
setting up, 54
IRQ conflicts, 93
H
hard drive
K
problems, 63
keyboard
hardware
problems, 65
beep codes, 81
conflicts, 93
Dell Diagnostics, 86
drives, RAID configuration, 30 L
Hardware Troubleshooter, 93 labels
Microsoft Windows, 12
headphone
Service Tag, 12
connector, 18
lights
Help and Support, 14
diagnostic, 76
hibernate mode, 57 front of computer, 76
link integrity, 21
network, 21
I network activity, 21
IEEE
connectors, 16, 18
M
IEEE 1394
problems, 65 media
operating system, 14
installing parts
before you begin, 99 Media Card Reader
recommended tools, 99 installing, 140, 142
turning off your computer, 99 removing, 140
Internet media card reader
problems, 63 using, 47
Index 221
memory O
problems, 68
operating system
messages media, 14, 96
error, 64 reinstalling, 14
system, 83 reinstalling Windows Vista, 94
Microsoft Windows label, 12 reinstalling Windows XP, 94
modem optical drive
problems, 63 problems, 62
monitor overclocking, 59, 182
blank, 73
clone mode, 30
connect DVI, 24, 26 P
connect TV, 24
password
connect VGA, 24-26
clearing, 188
connecting, 24 jumper, 188
connecting two, 25-26
display settings, 30 PCI cards
dual monitors, 24 removing, 114
extended desktop mode, 30 PCI Express cards
hard to read, 73 installing, 116
problems, 73 removing, 121
motherboard. See system board performance, 59
mouse phone numbers, 200
problems, 68 playing CDs, 42
playing DVDs, 42
N power
connector, 19
network
hibernate mode, 57
connector, 21
problems, 69
Network Setup Wizard, 55
sleep mode, 56
problems, 69
power light, 75
Network Setup Wizard, 55 conditions, 69
222 Index
printer problems (continued)

cable, 52 program stops responding, 66
connecting, 52 restore to previous state, 94
problems, 71 scanner, 71
setting up, 52 screen hard to read, 73
USB, 52 screen is blank, 73
problems software, 66-67
battery, 61 sound and speakers, 72
beep codes, 81 video and monitor, 73
blue screen, 67 volume adjusting, 72
CD-RW drive, 62 processor
computer crashes, 66-67 type, 173
computer stops responding, 66 Product Information Guide, 12
conflicts, 93
Dell Diagnostics, 86
diagnostic lights, 76
R
drives, 62
e-mail, 63 RAID
error messages, 64 configuring, 30
general, 66 regulatory information, 12
hard drive, 63
reinstalling
IEEE 1394, 65
Windows Vista, 94
Internet, 63
Windows XP, 94
keyboard, 65
memory, 68
modem, 63
monitor hard to read, 73 S
monitor is blank, 73 safety instructions, 12
mouse, 68 Scalable Link Interface
network, 69 technology, 59
optical drive, 62
scanner
power, 69
problems, 71-72
power light conditions, 69
printer, 71 screen. See monitor
program crashes, 67 Service Tag, 12
Index 223
settings system messages, 83

system setup, 178 System Restore, 94
sleep mode system setup, 178
about, 56 entering, 179
SLI options, 180
See Scalable Link Interface screens, 179
technology
software
conflicts, 93 T
problems, 66-67 telephone numbers, 200
sound troubleshooting
problems, 72 conflicts, 93
volume, 72 Dell Diagnostics, 86
speaker diagnostic lights, 76
problems, 72 Hardware Troubleshooter, 93
volume, 72 Help and Support, 14
specifications restore to previous state, 94
computer information, 173 TV
connectors, 175 connect to computer, 24
controls and lights, 176
drives, 175
environmental, 177 U
expansion bus, 174
USB
memory, 173
booting to devices, 187
physical, 177
connectors, 18
power, 177
processor, 173
technical, 173
video, 174 V
support video
contacting Dell, 193, 200 problems, 73
support website, 13 volume

adjusting, 72
system board, 103
224 Index
W
warranty information, 12
Windows Vista
Factory Image Restore, 95
hibernate mode, 57
reinstalling, 14, 94
sleep mode, 56
System Restore, 94
Windows XP
Hardware Troubleshooter, 93
reinstalling, 14, 94
System Restore, 94
wizards
Index 225
226 Index

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book Page 1 Tuesday, November 27, 2007 10:29 AM

Dell™ XPS™ 420 Owner’s Manual

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to

November 2007 P/N GX404 Rev. A01

1 Setting Up and Using Your Computer . . . 15

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure . . . . . . . 22

About Your RAID Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Dell DataSafe (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Intel® Viiv™ Technology (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Using a Media Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Understanding the Media Xcelerator™ (Optional) . . . 49

Understanding Windows® SideShow™ and the

Connecting to the Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Network Setup Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Transferring Information to a New Computer . . . . . . 56

Power Management Options in Windows Vista . . . . 56

2 Optimizing for Greater Performance . . . . 59

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems

Restoring Your Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Troubleshooting LCD Display Problems . . . . . . . . . 98

4 Removing and Installing Parts . . . . . . . . 99

Removing the Computer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Inside View of Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

System Board Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Drive Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Floppy Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Media Card Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

CD/DVD Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Processor Airflow Shroud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

System Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

Front I/O Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

Replacing the Computer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

Clearing Forgotten Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

Clearing CMOS Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190

Cleaning Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191

FCC Notices (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193

Getting Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

AutoTech Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

Problems With Your Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit . . . . . 198

Before You Call . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

Contacting Dell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to set up my computer Setup Diagram

• Enter the Express Service Code to direct

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to reinstall my operating system Operating System Media

Setting Up and Using Your Computer

Setting Up and Using Your Computer 15