User manual DELL DIMENSION 4300S

DellTM DimensionTM 4300S w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m HINT: A HINT 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. For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Tell Me How help file. To access help files, see page 28. ____________________ Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2001 Dell Computer Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Computer Corporation is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Dimension, Inspiron, Latitude, OptiPlex, Dell Precision, DellPlus, and DellNet are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. 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 Computer Corporation disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own. This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. October 2001 P/N 6K797 Rev. A00 Safety Instructions ......................... ................... .................. .............. ........... 9 9 10 12 13 When Using Your Computer Ergonomic Computing Habits When Working Inside Your Computer Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge 1 Setting Up Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand . Connecting a Printer Parallel Printer USB Printer .......... 16 18 18 20 20 ........................ ......................... .......................... ................... Installing the Printer Driver Transferring Information to a New Computer (Windows XP only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting Up a Home and Office Network (Windows XP only) . . . . . . . . . . . Turning Off the Computer Windows XP Windows 2000 ........... 21 .............. 22 22 22 22 ..................... .......................... ......................... 2 Solving Problems Finding Solutions .......................... ........................ 26 28 28 Accessing Help Files Power Problems . .......................... Contents 3 Start-Up Error Messages ..................... ................... 29 30 30 31 32 33 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 39 40 40 41 41 42 42 43 43 44 44 44 45 Video and Monitor Problems If the screen is blank ...................... ................ If the screen is difficult to read . Sound and Speaker Problems Printer Problems ................... ......................... .......... If you cannot print to a parallel port printer If you cannot print to a USB printer Scanner Problems Modem Problems Mouse Problems .............. ......................... ......................... .......................... ........................ Keyboard Problems Drive Problems .......................... ............ ...... If you cannot save a file to a floppy disk If you cannot play a music CD or install a program from a CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . If you cannot play a DVD movie If you have a hard drive problem Network Problems If the CD-RW drive stops writing . ................ ............... ................ ......................... .............. Microsoft® Windows® Error Messages General Program Problems A program crashes .................... ....................... .................. ......... A program stops responding A solid blue screen appears A program error causes the system to lock up A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................. ......... 4 Contents Internet Connection Problems ................... ...... 45 45 46 47 47 49 50 50 51 52 53 54 55 55 57 If you have a problem with your Internet connection . E-Mail Problems .......................... ................ Resolving Other Technical Problems Reinstalling Drivers ......................... ......... ....... Using the Windows XP Device Driver Rollback Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Windows XP Windows 2000 .......................... ......................... ....................... .................... ...... Using System Restore Creating a Restore Point Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State Undoing the Last System Restore Reinstalling Windows XP ................ ...................... .................... Reinstalling Windows 2000 3 Adding Parts Front and Back View of the Computer Opening the Computer Cover Looking Inside Your Computer System Board Adding Cards ............... 60 61 63 64 65 69 71 ................... ................... .......................... ............................ .......................... .................... Adding Memory . Closing the Computer Cover Contents 5 4 Appendix Specifications ........................... ......................... ........................ ................ 74 78 79 79 80 81 82 83 83 84 84 98 98 100 102 103 104 105 105 107 111 114 117 119 122 Standard Settings Viewing Settings System Setup Program Screens Clearing Forgotten Passwords Replacing the Battery ................... ....................... ............ ..... Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals Contacting Dell ...... .......................... ................ ........ Contact Numbers and Addresses Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit . Regulatory Information Battery Disposal ...................... .................... FCC Notices (U.S. Only) ........................ ................ ....... NOM Information (Mexico Only) Información para NOM (únicamente para México) Limited Warranties and Return Policy .............. ............ ............ ........... ............ ........... ........... .......... One-Year Limited Warranty (U.S. Only) Two-Year Limited Warranty (U.S. Only) Three-Year Limited Warranty (U.S. Only) Four-Year Limited Warranty (U.S. Only) One-Year Limited Warranty (Canada Only) Two-Year Limited Warranty (Canada Only) Three-Year Limited Warranty (Canada Only) 6 Contents "Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (U.S. and Canada Only) . . . . . ............... ......... 126 127 One-Year End-User Manufacturer Guarantee (Latin America and the Caribbean Only) . . . Index .................................. 129 Contents 7 8 Contents Use the following safety guidelines to protect yourself and your computer. When Using Your Computer CAUTION: Do not operate your computer with any cover(s) (including the computer cover, filler brackets, front-panel inserts, and so on) removed or opened. · Your computer is equipped with either an auto-sensing voltage selector or a manual voltage-selection switch. Computers with an auto-sensing voltage selector do not have a voltage-selection switch on the back panel and automatically detect the correct operating voltage. Computers with a voltage-selection switch on the back panel must be manually set to operate at the correct operating voltage. To help avoid damaging a computer with a manual voltage-selection switch, be sure that the voltage-selection switch is set to match the AC power available at your location: ­ ­ ­ 115 V/60 Hz in most of North and South America and some Far Eastern countries such as South Korea and Taiwan 100 V/50 Hz in eastern Japan and 100 V/60 Hz in western Japan 230 V/50 Hz in most of Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East Also be sure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to operate with the AC power available in your location. · To avoid shorting out your computer when disconnecting a network cable, first unplug the cable from the network adapter on the back of your computer, and then from the network jack. When reconnecting a network cable to your computer, first plug the cable into the network jack, and then into the network adapter. 9 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m · To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting or connecting a non-USB device from the computer. To help prevent electric shock, plug the computer and device power cables into properly grounded power sources. These cables are equipped with 3-prong plugs to help ensure proper grounding. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from a cable. If you must use an extension cable, use a 3-wire cable with properly grounded plugs. To help protect your computer from sudden, transient increases and decreases in electrical power, use a surge suppressor, line conditioner, or uninterruptible power supply. Be sure that nothing rests on your computer's cables and that the cables are not located where they can be stepped on or tripped over. Do not spill food or liquids on your computer. If the computer gets wet, contact Dell (see page 84). Do not push any objects into the openings of your computer. Doing so can cause fire or electric shock by shorting out interior components. Keep your computer away from radiators and heat sources. Also, do not block cooling vents. Avoid placing loose papers underneath your computer; do not place your computer in a closed-in wall unit or on a bed, sofa, or rug. · · · · · · Ergonomic Computing Habits CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury. CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain. For comfort and efficiency, observe the following ergonomic guidelines when setting up and using your computer: · Position your computer so that the monitor and keyboard are directly in front of you as you work. Special shelves are available (from Dell and other sources) to help you correctly position your keyboard. Set the monitor at a comfortable viewing distance (usually 510 to 610 millimeters [20 to 24 inches] from your eyes). · 10 · · Make sure the monitor screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor. Adjust the tilt of the monitor, its contrast and brightness settings, and the lighting around you (such as overhead lights, desk lamps, and the curtains or blinds on nearby windows) to minimize reflections and glare on the monitor screen. Use a chair that provides good lower back support. Keep your forearms horizontal with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position while using the keyboard or mouse Always leave space to rest your hands while using the keyboard or mouse. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Sit erect with your feet resting on the floor and your thighs level. When sitting, make sure the weight of your legs is on your feet and not on the front of your chair seat. Adjust your chair's height or use a footrest, if necessary, to maintain proper posture. Vary your work activities. Try to organize your work so that you do not have to type for extended periods of time. When you stop typing, try to do things that use both hands. · · · · · · · 11 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m monitor screen at or below eye level wrists relaxed and flat computer positioned directly in front of user arms at desk level feet flat on the floor When Working Inside Your Computer Before you open the computer cover, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated. CAUTION: Do not attempt to service the computer yourself, except as explained in this guide and elsewhere in Dell documentation. Always follow installation and service instructions closely. 1 2 Turn off the computer (see page 22). Turn off all devices. 12 3 Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface at the back of the computer before touching anything inside your computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface on the computer to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components. 4 Disconnect any devices connected to the computer, including the monitor, from their electrical outlets to reduce the potential for personal injury or shock. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer. Disconnect the power cable to your computer, and then press the power button to ground the system board. 5 In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate: · When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector, not on the cable itself. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any pins. Also, before you connect a cable, make sure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned. Handle components and cards with care. Don't touch the components on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal bracket. CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding 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. · Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch anything inside your computer and periodically while you work inside the computer. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer. You can also take the following steps to prevent static damage: · Do not remove items from their antistatic packing material until you are ready to install them in your computer. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, be sure to discharge static electricity from your body. When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or packaging. · 13 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m 14 SECTION 1 Attaching and Removing the Computer Stand Connecting a Printer Transferring Information to a New Computer (Windows XP only) Setting Up a Home and Office Network (Windows XP only) Turning Off the Computer w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m The computer can be used in either a vertical or horizontal position. To use the computer in a vertical position, you must attach the computer stand: 1 Place the computer on its right side so that the drive bays are at the bottom. 16 Setting Up 2 Fit the stand onto what was the left side of the computer. a Position the stand as shown in the following illustration by aligning the large round hole in the stand with the securing button on the side of the cover and aligning the captive screw in the stand with the screw hole in the cover. When the stand is in place, tighten the thumbscrew. b 3 Rotate the computer so that the stand is at the bottom and the drives are at the top. Setting Up 17 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m To remove the computer stand: 1 2 3 Turn the computer over so that the stand is at the top. Loosen the thumbscrew and lift the stand away. Place the computer in a horizontal position. See the documentation that came with the printer for any recommended preparation procedures, such as: · · · Removing the packaging Installing the toner or ink cartridge Loading paper Then follow the instructions that came with the printer to connect it to the computer. If no information is provided, see the following sections. Parallel Printer 1 Turn off the computer (see page 22). NOTICE: Use only a standard IEEE parallel cable measuring 3 m (10 ft) or less to connect the printer to the computer. Use of a nonstandard cable may prevent the printer from working. 18 Setting Up 2 Attach the parallel printer cable to the parallel connector on the computer and tighten the two screws. Attach the cable to the parallel connector on the printer and snap the two clips into the two notches. screws (2) parallel connector on computer parallel connector on printer parallel printer cable clips (2) notches (2) 3 4 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel. Install the printer driver if necessary (see "Installing the Printer Driver" on page 20). Setting Up 19 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m USB Printer HINT: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on. HINT: Your computer has two USB connectors on the back panel (see page 61) and two USB connectors inside the door on the front panel (see page 60). 1 2 Install the printer driver if necessary (see the following section). Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connector on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors only fit one way. USB connector USB printer cable USB connector on printer Installing the Printer Driver If you need to install a printer driver, insert the printer installation CD into the CD or DVD drive. Then follow the prompts on the screen using the instructions that came with the printer. If your printer installation CD does not automatically run, click the Start button on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop, click Run, and type x:\setup.exe (where x is the letter of your CD or DVD drive [usually drive D]). Then click OK and follow the prompts on your screen. If your printer installation CD still does not run, check the documentation that came with your printer for instructions on how to start the printer installation CD. If you connect an older printer and it doesn't work after you install the driver, access the system setup program (see page 78) and ensure that the parallel port is set to operate in bidirectional mode. 20 Setting Up To check if your printer driver is installed on a computer running the Windows XP operating system, click the Start button, click Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click View installed printers or fax printers. If your computer runs Windows 2000, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If your printer is listed in the Printers window, the printer is ready to use. Windows XP provides a Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data, such as e-mails, window sizes, toolbar settings, and Internet bookmarks, from one computer to another. First you collect the data from the source computer, and then you import the data to the new computer. If the source computer uses another Windows operating system, the wizard can be launched from the Windows XP operating system CD or from a floppy disk created on the Windows XP computer. You may transfer the data to the new computer over a network or serial connection, or you may store it on a removable medium, such as a floppy disk, a Zip disk, or a writable CD. 1 On the Windows XP computer, click the Start button, point to All Programs--> Accessories--> System Tools, and then click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. On the welcome screen, click Next. On the Which computer is this? screen, select New Computer, and then click Next. Follow the instructions on the screen. HINT: The CD that you need to place in your CD or DVD drive is titled Operating System. 2 3 4 Setting Up 21 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Windows XP 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 the Start button, point to All Programs--> Accessories--> Communications, and then click Network Setup Wizard. On the welcome screen, click Next. Click checklist for creating a network. Complete the checklist and required preparations, and then return to the Network Setup Wizard. Follow the instructions on the screen. 2 3 HINT: Selecting the connection method This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP . 4 5 NOTICE: To prevent data loss, you must turn off your computer through the Start menu rather than by pressing the power button. HINT: If you are having difficulty turning off your computer, see "General Program Problems" on page 43. Windows XP 1 2 3 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. Click the Start button and then click Turn off Computer. Click Turn off. The computer automatically turns off after the shutdown process finishes. 4 Turn off your monitor and any other devices connected to power. Windows 2000 1 2 3 Save and exit any programs and files you have open. Click the Start button, and then click Shut Down. Click the pull-down menu under What do you want the computer to do?. 22 Setting Up 4 Click Shut down and then click OK. The computer automatically turns off after the shutdown process finishes. 5 Turn off your monitor and any other devices connected to power. Setting Up 23 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m 24 Setting Up SECTION 2 Finding Solutions Accessing Help Files Power Problems Start-Up Error Messages Video and Monitor Problems Sound and Speaker Problems Printer Problems Scanner Problems Modem Problems Mouse Problems Keyboard Problems Drive Problems Network Problems Microsoft® Windows® Error Messages General Program Problems Internet Connection Problems E-Mail Problems Resolving Other Technical Problems Reinstalling Drivers Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Using System Restore Reinstalling Windows XP Reinstalling Windows 2000 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Sometimes it's difficult to figure out where to go for answers. Use this chart to help you quickly find the answers to your questions. See page 28. Get technical assistance from Dell. See page 84. See page 29. 26 Solving Pr oblems See page 30. See page 32. See page 33. See page 36. See page 37. See page 38. See page 39. See page 42. See page 35. See page 42. See page 43. See page 45. See page 46. See page 47. Solving Pr oblems 27 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m TO A C C E S S T H E Tell Me How H E L P F I L E Microsoft® Windows® XP 1 Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support. 2 Click User and system guides, and then click User's guides. 3 Click Tell Me How. Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Programs, point to User's Guides, and then click Tell Me How. TO A C C E S S H E L P I N W I N D O W S X P 1 Click the Start button, and then 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, and then click Display. 4 Follow the instructions shown on the screen. TO A C C E S S H E L P I N W I N D O W S 2 0 0 0 1 Click the Start button, and then click Help. 2 Click the Search tab. 3 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem, and then click List Topics. 4 Click the topic that describes your problem, and then click Display. 5 Follow the instructions shown on the screen. HINT: See the Tell Me How help file for information on the standby mode. C H E C K T H E P O W E R L I G H T -- When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode--press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse. If the power light is off, the computer is either not turned on or is not receiving electrical power. 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. 28 Solving Pr oblems C H E C K T H E P O W E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N -- Be sure that the power cable is firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the computer power connector. CONNECT THE COMPUTER DIRECTLY TO AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET-- Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on. SWAP T H E C O M P U T E R A N D M O N I T O R P O W E R C A B L E S -- Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective. C H E C K F O R I N T E R F E R E N C E -- Electrical appliances on the same circuit or operating near the computer can cause interference. Other causes of interference: power extension cables, keyboard and mouse extension cables, too many devices on a power strip, or multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet. C H E C K T H E PO W E R P R O P E R T I E S -- See the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. To access help files, see page 28. O P E R A T I N G S Y S T E M N O T F O U N D -- Call Dell for technical assistance (see page 84). I N S E R T B O O T A B L E M E D I A -- The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable floppy disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD. N O N -SYSTEM D I S K E R R O R -- There is a floppy disk in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy disk and restart the computer. Solving Pr oblems 29 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m If the screen is blank HINT: See the documentation that come with your monitor for fault indications and troubleshooting procedures specific to your monitor. C H E C K T H E V I D E O C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N -- Check for bent pins (most video cable connectors have missing pins, but not bent pins). Ensure that the video cable is connected as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer. P R E S S T H E M O N I T O R P O W E R B U T T O N -- Be sure that you firmly pressed the monitor power button. C H E C K T H E P O W E R L I G H T -- When the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power. If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse. 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. S W A P T H E C O M P U T E R A N D M O N I T O R P O W E R C A B L E S -- Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective. TE S T T H E V I D E O E X T E N S I O N C A B L E ( I F U S E D ) -- If you are using a video extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is defective. TE S T T H E M O N I T O R -- If another monitor is available, connect it to the computer. C H E C K T H E B A C K P A N E L L I G H T S -- If all four lights below the serial connector (see page 61) are not green, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 84). C H E C K T H E PO W E R P R O P E R T I E S -- See the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. To access help files, see page 28. 30 Solving Pr oblems If the screen is difficult to read A D J U S T T H E C O N T R A S T A N D B R I G H T N E S S -- See the documentation that came with your monitor for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness. 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 at least 2 ft (60 cm) 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. RO T A T E T H E M O N I T O R T O F A C E A D I F F E R E N T D I R E C T I O N -- Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality. D E G A U S S ( D E M A G N E T I Z E ) T H E M O N I T O R -- See the documentation that came with your monitor. R U N T H E M O N I T O R S E L F -T E S T -- See the documentation that came with your monitor. RE S T O R E T H E R E C O M M E N D E D S E T T I N G S -- Restore the original resolution and refresh rate settings. See the Tell Me How help file for instructions. To access help files, see page 28. C H E C K F O R A D D I T I O N A L A D J U S T M E N T S -- See the documentation that came with your monitor for any additional adjustments that your monitor may require. Solving Pr oblems 31 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m ADJUST THE WINDOWS DISPLAY SETTINGS Windows XP 1 Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Appearance and Themes. 3 Click Display, and then click the Settings tab. 4 Try different settings for Screen resolution and Color quality. Windows 2000 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2 Double-click the Display icon, and then click the Settings tab. 3 Try different settings for Colors and Screen area. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. HINT: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been listening to MP3 songs, make sure that you did not turn the player volume down or off. ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED O N -- See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. A D J U S T T H E S P E A K E R C O N T R O L S -- If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion. VERIFY 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 START HERE sheet for your computer and the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. BE SURE THAT HEADPHONES ARE NOT CONNECTED TO THE FRONTP A N E L H E A D P H O N E J A C K -- Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer's front-panel headphone jack. 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 -- In Windows XP click the , speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. In Windows 2000, doubleclick the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. 32 Solving Pr oblems R U N T H E S P E A K E R D I A G N O S T I C S -- Some speaker systems have selfcontained diagnostics. See the speaker documentation for diagnostics instructions. 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. TEST 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. RE I N S T A L L T H E SO U N D ( A U D I O ) D R I V E R -- See page 47. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. If you cannot print to a parallel port printer VERIFY T H E P R I N T E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N S -- Ensure that the printer cable is connected as described on page 18. E N S U R E T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S T U R N E D O N -- See the documentation supplied with the printer. HINT: If you need technical assistance for your printer, call the printer's manufacturer (see the documentation that came with the printer for the correct phone number). Dell does not cover the printer's warranty. Solving Pr oblems 33 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m VERIFY 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 Windows XP 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 4 Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. 5 Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). Windows 2000 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. 2 Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). 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. REINSTALL T H E P R I N T E R D R I V E R -- See page 20. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. If you cannot print to a USB printer VERIFY T H E P R I N T E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N S -- Ensure that the printer cable is connected as described on page 20. E N S U R E T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S T U R N E D O N -- See the documentation supplied with the printer. 34 Solving Pr oblems VERIFY 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 Windows XP 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 4 Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer name. 5 Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB. Windows 2000 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. 2 Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB. TEST 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. RE I N S T A L L T H E P R I N T E R D R I V E R -- See page 20. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. C H E C K T H E P O W E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N -- If your scanner has a power cable, ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to a working electrical power source and that the scanner is turned on. C H E C K T H E S C A N N E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N -- Ensure that the scanner cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the scanner. U N L O C K T H E S C A N N E R -- Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button. HINT: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, call the scanner's manufacturer (see the documentation that came with the scanner for the correct phone number). Dell does not cover the scanner's warranty. Solving Pr oblems 35 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m REINSTALL T H E S C A N N E R D R I V E R -- Reinstall the scanner driver. See the scanner documentation for instructions. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. HINT: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not operate while it is connected to a digital telephone network. C H E C K T H E C O N N E C T I O N -- Verify that the telephone line is connected to the green jack on the modem. (The green line-in jack has either a LINE IN label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.) Make sure you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector. C H E C K T H E T E L E P H O N E J A C K -- Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone. C O N N E C T T H E M O D E M D I R E C T L Y T O T H E T E L E P H O N E W A L L J A C K -- If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack with the telephone line. C H E C K T H E T E L E P H O N E L I N E -- Try using a different telephone line. If you are using a line that is 10 ft (3 m) or more in length, try a shorter one. 36 Solving Pr oblems VERIFY 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 Windows XP 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Network and Internet Connections. 4 Click Internet Options. 5 Click Network Diagnostics and perform the connectivity test. Windows 2000 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2 Double-click Phone and Modems. If multiple entries for the same modem or modems are listed but not installed, delete the entries, restart the computer, and repeat steps 1 and 2. 3 Click the Modems tab. 4 Click the COM port for your modem. 5 Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly. BE SURE THAT YOU HAVE SUBSCRIBED TO AN INTERNET SERVICE P R O V I D E R -- Contact an Internet service provider to subscribe. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. IF YOU CONNECTED THE MOUSE BEFORE TURNING ON THE C O M P U T E R, R E C O N N E C T T H E M O U S E C A B L E 1 Press to display the Start menu. 2 In Windows XP type u, and then type u again. In Windows 2000, press the , keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut Down, and then press . 3 After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer. 4 Start the computer. Solving Pr oblems 37 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m I F Y O U C O N N E C T E D T H E M O U S E A F T E R T U R N I N G O N T H E C O M P U T E R, REMOVE THE POWER CABLE, AND THEN RECONNECT THE MOUSE C A B L E -- If the mouse is connected after the power is turned on, the mouse will appear to be nonfunctional. To make the mouse function properly: 1 While your computer is on, remove the power cable from the back of the computer. 2 Connect the mouse to the computer. 3 Reconnect the power cable. 4 Turn on your computer. Pressing the power button does not clear the computer's settings and does not restore mouse functionality. CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS Windows XP 1 Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware. 2 Click Mouse. Try adjusting the settings. Windows 2000 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2 Double-click the Mouse icon. Try adjusting the settings. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. RE C O N N E C T T H E K E Y B O A R D C A B L E -- Shut down the computer (see page 22), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer, and then restart the computer. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. 38 Solving Pr oblems If you cannot save a file to a floppy disk E N S U R E T H A T W I N D O W S R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E -- In Windows XP , Click the Start button, and then click My Computer. In Windows 2000, doubleclick the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop. If the floppy 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. TEST T H E D R I V E W I T H A N O T H E R F L O P P Y D I S K -- Insert another floppy disk to eliminate the possibility that the original floppy disk is defective. C A N N O T S A V E F I L E S T O A F L O P P Y D I S K -- Ensure that the floppy disk is not full or write-protected (locked). See the following illustration. back of floppy disk write-protected not writeprotected Solving Pr oblems 39 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m If you cannot play a music CD or install a program from a CD HINT: High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. This does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD. E N S U R E T H A T W I N D O W S R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E -- In Windows XP , click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. In Windows 2000, double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. If the floppy 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 W I T H A N O T H E R C D -- Insert another CD to eliminate the possibility that the original CD is defective. C L E A N T H E D I S C -- See the Tell Me How help file for instructions. To access help files, see page 28. 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 -- In Windows XP click the , gray speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. In Windows 2000, double-click the yellow speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. IF HEADPHONES ARE CONNECTED TO THE FRONT-PANEL HEADPHONE J A C K , C H E C K F O R S O U N D F R O M T H E H E A D P H O N E S -- Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer's front-panel headphone jack. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. If you cannot play a DVD movie HINT: Because of different worldwide file types, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives. E N S U R E T H A T W I N D O W S R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E -- In Windows XP , Click the Start button, and then click My Computer. In Windows 2000, doubleclick the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop. If the floppy 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. 40 Solving Pr oblems TEST T H E D R I V E W I T H A N O T H E R D V D -- Insert another DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original DVD is defective. C L E A N T H E D I S C -- See the Tell Me How help file for instructions. If the CD-RW drive stops writing HINT: If you disable standby mode to write to a CD-RW drive, remember to reenable standby mode when you finish writing to the CD. TU R N O F F S T A N D B Y 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 C D - R W D I S C -- See the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in Help and Support (Help in Windows 2000). To access help files, see page 28. C H A N G E T H E W R I T E S P E E D T O A S L O W E R R A T E -- The CD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Closing all programs before writing to the CD-RW may also alleviate the problem. If you have a hard drive problem R U N SC A N D I S K 1 In Windows XP click the Start button, and then click My Computer. In Windows 2000 double-click the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop. 2 Right-click on the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and then click Properties. 3 Click the Tools tab. 4 Under Error-checking, click Check Now. 5 Click Start. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. Solving Pr oblems 41 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m 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 connector is firmly connected to the connector on the computer and the network wall jack as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer. CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS ON THE BACK OF THE COMPUTER-- A green light indicates a 10-Mbps network connection, and an orange light indicates a 100-Mbps network connection. The light blinks amber when there is any network traffic. If the light is dark, try replacing the network cable. RESTART T H E C O M P U T E R -- Try to log on to the network again. C O N T A C T Y O U R N E T W O R K A D M I N I S T R A T O R -- Verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning. C H E C K F O R I N T E R R U P T R E Q U E S T C O N F L I C T S -- See page 50. ® ® x: \ 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 -- Insert a disk into the drive and try again. A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING C H A R A C T E R S : \ / : * ? " < > | -- Do not use these characters in filenames. N O T E N O U G H M E M O R Y O R R E S O U R C E S . CLOSE S O M E P R O G R A M S A N D T R Y A G A I N -- You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. In some cases, you might have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, try running the program that you want to use first. 42 Solving Pr oblems TH E F I L E B E I N G C O P I E D I S T O O L A R G E F O R T H E D E S T I N A T I O N D R I V E -- The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk. Try copying the file to a blank disk or use a larger-capacity disk. 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: Windows XP 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Control Panel. 3 Click Add or Remove Programs. 4 Select the program you want to remove. 5 Click the Change or Remove Program icon. 6 See the program documentation for installation instructions. Windows 2000 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2 Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon. 3 Select the program that you want to remove. 4 Click Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen. 5 See the program documentation for installation instructions. A program crashes SE E T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N -- Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you to solve the problem. Solving Pr oblems 43 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m A program stops responding END THE PROGRAM 1 Simultaneously press . 2 Click the Applications tab, and then select the program that is no longer responding. 3 Click the End Task button. A program error causes the system to lock up HINT: ScanDisk may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen. TURN T H E C O M P U T E R O F F -- If your computer locks up and 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. Then press the power button again to turn on the computer. You might lose data if you are unable to perform a Microsoft Windows shutdown. A solid blue screen appears HINT: ScanDisk may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen. TURN T H E C O M P U T E R O F F -- If your computer locks up and 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. Then press the power button again to turn on the computer. The solid blue screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows shutdown. You might lose data if you are unable to perform a Microsoft Windows shutdown. 44 Solving Pr oblems A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system R U N T H E P R O G R A M COMPATIBILITY W I Z A R D Windows XP provides a Program Compatibility Wizard that configures a program to run in an environment more similar to older Windows operating system environments. 1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs--> Accessories, and then click Program Compatibility Wizard. 2 On the welcome screen, click Next. Follow the instructions on the screen. If you have a problem with your Internet connection RE V I E W " M O D E M P R O B L E M S " -- See page 36. Solving Pr oblems 45 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m TURN O F F C A L L W A I T I N G (CATCH - P H O N E ) -- See your telephone directory for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking connection properties. Windows XP 1 Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click Phone and Modem Options. 3 Click to highlight your connection type in the displayed list. 4 Click the Dialing Rules tab, and then click the Edit button. 5 Click to place a checkmark in the To Disable Call Waiting box. 6 Select the disable code from the drop down menu (for example, *70). 7 Click Apply, and then click OK. Windows 2000 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2 Double-click the Phone and Modems Options icon. 3 In the Locations window, select the location for which you want to disable call waiting, and then click Edit. 4 Ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked and then select the proper code according to the information in your telephone directory. 5 Click Apply and then click OK. 6 Close the Phone and Modems Options window. 7 Close the Control Panel. BE SURE THAT YOU HAVE SUBSCRIBED TO AN INTERNET SERVICE P R O V I D E R -- Contact an Internet service provider to subscribe. C O N T A C T Y O U R I N T E R N E T S E R V I C E P R O V I D E R -- Contact your Internet service provider for assistance. 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 -- With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a check next to it, click the check to remove it and connect to the Internet. 46 Solving Pr oblems C O N T A C T Y O U R I N T E R N E T S E R V I C E P R O V I D E R -- Contact your Internet service provider for assistance. G O T O T H E D E L L S U P P O R T W E B S I T E -- Go to http://support.dell.com for help with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions. See "Dell Technical Support Policy" on page 82 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell. E -M A I L D E L L -- Go to http://support.dell.com, and then click E-Mail Dell in the Communicate list. Send an e-mail message to Dell about your problem; you can expect to receive an e-mail message from Dell within hours. See "Dell Technical Support Policy" on page 82 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell. C A L L D E L L -- If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell support website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 84). See "Dell Technical Support Policy" on page 82 for a description of the hardware and software support provided by Dell. NOTICE: The Dell support website, http://support.dell.com, and the Dell Dimension ResourceCD provide approved drivers for DellTM computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly. Dell installed the following drivers on your computer: · Intel® Chip Set Update Utility Driver -- Installs the Microsoft Windows operating system device installation files (.inf) that tell the operating system how certain chip set components should be configured for proper operation. ADI AC-97 Audio Codec Driver -- Enables the optional built-in sound controller to produce sound. · Solving Pr oblems 47 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m · · Yamaha Wavetable Driver -- Enables the optional built-in sound controller to produce sound. Intel Ultra ATA Storage Driver -- Improves your computer's performance by transferring certain functions from the microprocessor during data transfers from storage devices. Other Drivers -- Control the devices such as the modem and network cards that might be installed in your computer. For information on other drivers on computers running Windows XP click the Start , button, click Help and Support, click User and system guides, and then click Device guides. Click the appropriate guide from the list. For information on other drivers on computers running Windows 2000, click the Start button, point to Programs--> User's Guides, and click the appropriate guide from the list. From the Windows desktop, insert the Dell Dimension ResourceCD into the CD or DVD drive. If this is your first time to use the ResourceCD, go to step 2. If not, go to step 5. · Sometimes you can fix a device problem by reinstalling its driver: 1 2 3 4 5 When the ResourceCD Installation program starts, follow the prompts on the screen. When the InstallShield Wizard Complete window appears, remove the ResourceCD and click Finish to restart the computer. When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the ResourceCD into the CD or DVD drive. At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next. A message appears that says the ResourceCD is detecting hardware in your computer. The drivers that are used by your computer are automatically displayed in the My Drivers--The ResourceCD has identified these components in your system window. 48 Solving Pr oblems 6 Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on the screen. If a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is not required by your operating system. To view other contents on the ResourceCD: 1 2 3