User manual DELL INSPIRON 1100

DellTM InspironTM 1100 Owner's Manual w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m 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. Abbreviations and Acronyms For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see page 80. If you purchased a DellTM 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. © 2002­2003 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, AccessDirect, Inspiron, AccessDirect, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, Dell TrueMobile, and Dellnet are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Computer Corporation 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 Computer Corporation disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own. Model PP07L July 2003 P/N 6W956 Rev. A02 Contents CAUTION: Safety Instructions General Power . Battery ................... 11 11 12 13 14 14 14 15 16 16 17 17 ............................. ............................. ............................. ............................ ........................ ....................... .................... .................. .............. ........... Air Travel EMC Instructions California Residents When Using Your Computer Ergonomic Computing Habits When Working Inside Your Computer Battery Disposal Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge ........................ 1 A Tour of Your Computer Front View ............................. ........................... .......................... 20 23 24 26 28 Left Side View Right Side View . Back View . ............................. ............................ Bottom View 2 Setting Up Your Computer DellTM QuickSet Features ...................... ................... ............... 32 32 32 Clicking the QuickSet Icon Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon Contents 3 Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon . Connecting to the Internet ............... 32 33 33 34 35 36 37 38 38 38 39 39 40 40 40 .................... .............. ............ Setting Up Your Internet Connection Modem and Internet Connection Problems E-Mail Problems .......................... .......... Transferring Information to a New Computer Setting Up a Printer Printer Cable ........................ ......................... ................... Connecting a USB Printer Printer Problems ......................... ..................... Power Protection Devices Surge Protectors Line Conditioners ........................ ....................... ................ Uninterruptible Power Supplies Turning Off Your Computer .................... 3 Using a Battery Battery Performance ....................... ................... 42 43 43 43 44 44 45 45 45 Checking the Battery Charge Power Meter Low-Battery Warning Charging the Battery Removing a Battery Installing a Battery Storing a Battery .......................... ..................... ....................... ........................ ........................ ......................... ................... Battery and Power Problems 4 Contents If the battery is not charging If battery life is short .................. 46 46 ...................... 4 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad DellTM AccessDirectTM Button .................... ................... 48 48 48 49 49 49 50 50 50 51 52 52 53 53 Reprogramming the Button Numeric Keypad .......................... ........................ ........................ ........................ ....................... ....................... ........... Keyboard Shortcuts System Functions Display Functions Speaker Functions Power Management Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions Touch Pad .............................. ................... ................... Customizing the Touch Pad Touch Pad or Mouse Problems External Keyboard Problems Unexpected Characters . .................... ...................... 5 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia Using CDs and DVDs CD or DVD Problems ........................ ........................ ............ ..... ...... 56 56 56 56 56 57 57 57 If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, or DVD If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive tray If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound If the CD-RW drive stops writing Sound and Speaker Problems ................ ................... ......... If you have a problem with integrated speakers Contents 5 If you have a problem with external speakers . Connecting a Television to the Computer S-Video Connection Composite Video Connection ......... 57 58 59 61 63 ............. ...................... .................. ......... Enabling the Display Settings for a Television 6 Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to a Network Adapter Network Setup Wizard Network Problems ................ 66 66 67 67 68 68 71 ...................... ......................... ........... Connecting to Wireless Local Area Networks Determining Your Network Type Connecting to a Network in Windows XP . ................ ........... .... Finalizing Your Network Connection (Security Settings) 7 Solving Problems Finding Solutions Accessing Help Error Messages ......................... 78 80 80 81 81 82 83 83 84 84 85 .......................... .......................... .................... Video and Display Problems If the display is blank ..................... ................ ............. If the display is difficult to read If only part of the display is readable . Scanner Problems Drive Problems ......................... .......................... ........... If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive . If you have problems with a hard drive ............. 6 Contents PC Card Problems ......................... ..................... 85 86 86 86 86 86 87 88 88 88 89 89 91 92 93 93 93 94 95 95 95 General Program Problems A program crashes ....................... .................. A program stops responding . Error messages appear ..................... ................ Resolving Other Technical Problems If Your Computer Gets Wet . .................... .............. If You Drop or Damage Your Computer Drivers ............................... ........................ ....................... ....................... ......... ....... What Is a Driver? Identifying Drivers Reinstalling Drivers Manually Reinstalling Drivers for Windows XP Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Using System Restore ....................... .................... ...... Creating a Restore Point Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State Undoing the Last System Restore ................ .............. Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP . Before You Reinstall Reinstalling Windows XP ...................... .................... 8 Adding and Replacing Parts Before You Add or Replace Parts Memory Modem ................. 100 100 103 104 106 .............................. .............................. ............................ ................ Hard Drive Returning a Hard Drive to Dell Contents 7 CD or DVD Drive Keyboard . .......................... 106 108 ............................. 9 Appendix Specifications ........................... ................. 114 121 121 121 121 122 123 123 124 124 125 125 126 126 144 145 147 Using the System Setup Program Overview . ........................... ............... Viewing the System Setup Screens System Setup Screens Commonly Used Options ..................... .................... ......... System and Battery Performance Optimization System Performance Overview Variable Speed Fan ................. ... Optimizing Power Consumption and Battery Charge Time ...................... ............ ..... Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals Contacting Dell ...... .......................... ........................ ................ .............. Regulatory Notices NOM Information (Mexico Only) Limited Warranties and Return Policy Limited Warranty for the Dell-Branded Hardware Products (U.S. Only) 147 "Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (U.S. Only) . ......... 150 Limited Warranty Terms for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (Canada Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 "Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (Canada Only) Dell Software and Peripherals (Canada Only) . ........ 153 154 ......... 1-Year End-User Manufacturer Guarantee (Latin America and the Caribbean Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155 8 Contents Intel® Warranty Statement for Pentium® and Celeron® Processors Only (U.S. and Canada Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157 Index .................................. 159 Contents 9 10 Contents CAUTION: Safety Instructions Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage. General · · Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instructions closely. If you use an extension power cable with your AC adapter, ensure that the total ampere rating of the products plugged in to the extension power cable does not exceed the ampere rating of the extension cable. Do not push objects into air vents or openings of your computer. Doing so can cause fire or electric shock by shorting out interior components. Do not block air vents or openings of your computer. Doing so can damage the computer or cause fire. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a carrying case or a closed briefcase, while the computer is turned on or connected to the AC adapter. Restricting airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. 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. Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a desk top or on the floor, when you use it to run the computer or to charge the battery. Do not cover the AC adapter with papers or other items that will reduce cooling; also, do not use the AC adapter inside a carrying case. The AC adapter may become hot during normal operation of your computer. Use care when handling the adapter during or immediately after operation. Do not allow your portable computer to operate with the base resting directly on exposed skin for extended periods of time. The surface temperature of the base will rise during normal operation (particularly when AC power is present). Allowing sustained contact with exposed skin can cause discomfort or, eventually, a burn. Do not use your computer in a wet environment, for example, near a bath tub, sink, or swimming pool or in a wet basement If your computer includes an integrated or optional (PC Card) modem, disconnect the modem cable if an electrical storm is approaching to avoid the remote risk of electric shock from lightning via the telephone line. CAU TION: Safe ty Instr u c tions 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 CAUTION: Safety Instructions (continued) · To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not connect or disconnect any cables or perform maintenance or reconfiguration of this product during an electrical storm. Do not use your computer during an electrical storm unless all cables have been disconnected and the computer is operating on battery power. If your computer includes a modem, the cable used with the modem should be manufactured with a minimum wire size of 26 American wire gauge (AWG) and an FCC-compliant RJ-11 modular plug. Before you open the memory module cover or Mini PCI card/modem cover on the bottom of your computer, disconnect all cables from their electrical outlets and disconnect the telephone cable. If your computer has a modem RJ-11 connector and a network RJ-45 connector, insert the telephone cable into the RJ-11 connector, not the RJ-45 connector. PC Cards may become very warm during normal operation. Use care when removing PC Cards after their continuous operation. Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances. · · · · · Power · · Use only the Dell-provided AC adapter approved for use with this computer. Use of another AC adapter may cause a fire or explosion. Before you connect the computer to an electrical outlet, check the AC adapter voltage rating to ensure that the required voltage and frequency match the available power source. To remove the computer from all power sources, turn the computer off, remove the battery pack, and disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet. To help prevent electric shock, plug the AC adapter and device power cables into properly grounded power sources. These power cables may be equipped with 3-prong plugs to provide an earth grounding connection. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from the power cable plug. If you use a power extension cable, use the appropriate type, 2-prong or 3-prong, to mate with the AC adapter power cable. Be sure that nothing rests on your AC adapter's power cable and that the cable is not located where it can be tripped over or stepped on. · · · 12 CAUTION: Safety Ins tr uctions CAUTION: Safety Instructions (continued) · If you are using a multiple-outlet power strip, use caution when plugging the AC adapter's power cable into the power strip. Some power strips may allow you to insert the plug incorrectly. Incorrect insertion of the power plug could result in permanent damage to your computer, as well as risk of electric shock and/or fire. Ensure that the ground prong of the power plug is inserted into the mating ground contact of the power strip. Battery · · Use only DellTM battery modules that are approved for use with this computer. Use of other types may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Do not carry a battery pack in your pocket, purse, or other container where metal objects (such as car keys or paper clips) could short-circuit the battery terminals. The resulting excessive current flow can cause extremely high temperatures and may result in damage to the battery pack or cause fire or burns. The battery poses a burn hazard if you handle it improperly. Do not disassemble it. Handle a damaged or leaking battery pack with extreme care. If the battery is damaged, electrolyte may leak from the cells and may cause personal injury. Keep the battery away from children. Do not store or leave your computer or battery pack near a heat source such as a radiator, fireplace, stove, electric heater, or other heat-generating appliance or otherwise expose it to temperatures in excess of 60ºC (140ºF). When heated to excessive temperatures, battery cells could explode or vent, posing a risk of fire. Do not dispose of your computer's battery in a fire or with normal household waste. Battery cells may explode. Discard a used battery according to the manufacturer's instructions or contact your local waste disposal agency for disposal instructions. Dispose of a spent or damaged battery promptly. · · · · CAU TION: Safe ty Instr u c tions 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 CAUTION: Safety Instructions (continued) Air Travel · Certain Federal Aviation Administration regulations and/or airline-specific restrictions may apply to the operation of your Dell computer while you are on board an aircraft. For example, such regulations/restrictions may prohibit the use of any personal electronic device (PED) that has the capacity for intentional transmission of radio frequency or other electromagnetic signals while on an aircraft. ­ In order to best comply with all such restrictions, if your Dell portable computer is equipped with Dell TrueMobileTM or some other wireless communication device, please disable this device before you board the aircraft and follow all instructions provided by airline personnel with regard to such device. Additionally, the use of any PED, such as a portable computer, may be prohibited in aircraft during certain critical phases of flight, for example, takeoff and landing. Some airlines may further define the critical flight phase as any time the aircraft is below 3050 m (10,000 ft). Please follow the airline's specific instructions as to when the use of a PED is allowed. ­ EMC Instructions Use shielded signal cables to ensure that you maintain the appropriate EMC classification for the intended environment. For parallel printers, a cable is available from Dell. If you prefer, you can order a cable from Dell at its worldwide website at www.dell.com. Static electricity can harm electronic components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components, such as a memory module. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer's input/output panel. California Residents WARNING: Handling the cord on this product, or cords associated with accessories sold with this product, will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash your hands after handling the cord. 14 CAUTION: Safety Ins tr uctions When Using Your Computer Observe the following safe-handling guidelines to prevent damage to your computer: · · When setting up the computer for work, place it on a level surface. When traveling, do not check the computer as baggage. You can put your computer through an X-ray security machine, but never put your computer through a metal detector. If you have the computer checked by hand, be sure to have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn on the computer. When traveling with the hard drive removed from the computer, wrap the drive in a nonconducting material, such as cloth or paper. If you have the drive checked by hand, be ready to install the drive in the computer. You can put the hard drive through an X-ray security machine, but never put the drive through a metal detector. When traveling, do not place the computer in overhead storage compartments where it could slide around. Do not drop your computer or subject it to other mechanical shocks. Protect your computer, battery, and hard drive from environmental hazards such as dirt, dust, food, liquids, temperature extremes, and overexposure to sunlight. When you move your computer between environments with very different temperature and/or humidity ranges, condensation may form on or within the computer. To avoid damaging the computer, allow sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate before using the computer. NOTICE: When taking the computer from low-temperature conditions into a warmer environment or from high-temperature conditions into a cooler environment, allow the computer to acclimate to room temperature before turning on power. · · · · · When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself. As you pull out the connector, keep it evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable make sure both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned. Handle components with care. Hold a component such as a memory module by its edges, not its pins. When preparing to remove a memory module from the system board or disconnect a device from the computer, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter cable, and then wait 5 seconds before proceeding to help avoid possible damage to the system board. · · W h e n U s i n g Yo u r C o m p ut e r 15 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m When Using Your Computer (continued) · Clean the display with a soft, clean cloth and water. Apply the water to the cloth; then stroke the cloth across the display in one direction, moving from the top of the display to the bottom. Remove moisture from the display quickly and keep the display dry. Longterm exposure to moisture can damage the display. Do not use a commercial window cleaner to clean your display. If your computer gets wet or is damaged, follow the procedures described in "If Your Computer Gets Wet" on page 87 or "If You Drop or Damage Your Computer" on page 88. If, after following these procedures, you confirm that your computer is not operating properly, contact Dell (see page 126 for the appropriate contact information). · Ergonomic Computing Habits CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury. CAUTION: Viewing the display or external monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain. For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in the Tell Me How help file when setting up and using your computer. To access the help file, see page 80. This portable computer is not designed for continuous operation as office equipment. For extended use in an office, it is recommended that you connect an external keyboard. When Working Inside Your Computer Before removing or installing memory modules, Mini PCI cards, modems, keyboards, or CD or DVD drives, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated. NOTICE: The only time you should ever access the inside of your computer is when you are installing memory modules, a Mini PCI card, a modem, a keyboard, or a CD or DVD drive. NOTICE: Wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting a device or removing a memory module, Mini PCI card, modem, keyboard, or CD or DVD drive to help prevent possible damage to the system board. 1 2 Shut down your computer and turn off any attached devices. Disconnect your computer and devices from electrical outlets to reduce the potential for personal injury or shock. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer. Remove the main battery from the battery bay and, if necessary, the secondary battery from the module bay. 3 16 When Using Yo ur Computer When Using Your Computer (continued) 4 Ground yourself by touching the unpainted metal surface of the I/O panel on the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch the I/O panel to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components. Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge Static electricity can harm electronic components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components, such as a memory module. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer's I/O panel. As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch an I/O connector to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated. You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD): · When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the component. 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. Handle all sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads. · · Battery Disposal Your computer uses a lithium-ion battery and a reserve battery. For instructions about replacing the lithium-ion battery in your computer, refer to "Removing a Battery" on page 44. The reserve battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it. However, should you need to replace it, the procedure must be performed by an authorized service technician. Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site. W h e n U s i n g Yo u r C o m p ut e r 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 18 When Using Yo ur Computer 1 SECTION 1 A To u r o f Yo u r Computer Front View Left Side View Right Side View Back View Bottom View w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Front View display latch DellTM AccessDirectTM button display power button keyboard status lights touch pad keyboard touch pad buttons speaker device status lights speaker DIS P L A Y L A T C H -- Keeps the display closed. DIS P L A Y -- For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" in the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see page 80. 20 A To u r of Yo u r C om p u t e r KE Y B O A R D S T A T U S L I G H T S The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following: 9 Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled. Turns on when Caps Lock is enabled. Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled. A KE Y B O A R D -- The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft® Windows® logo key page 49. SP E A K E R S -- To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see page 50. . For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see A To ur of Yo ur Comput e r 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 DE V I C E S T A T U S LI G H T S Turns on when you turn on the computer. Blinks or turns off in power management mode. Turns on when the computer reads or writes data. NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is flashing. Blinks to indicate battery charge status. If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the follows: ­ Solid green: The battery is charging. light operates as If the computer is running on a battery, the light operates as follows: ­ Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off). ­ Flashing orange: The battery charge is low. ­ Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low. TO U C H PA D BUT T O N S -- Touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse. See page 51 for more information. TO U C H PA D -- The touch pad and touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse. See page 51 for more information. 22 A To u r of Yo u r C om p u t e r POWER B U T T O N -- Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power management mode. For more information, see "Power Management" in the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see page 80. NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Windows shutdown rather than by pressing the power button (see page 40). If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off completely (which may take several seconds). DELLTM ACCESSDI R E C T TM B U T T O N -- Press this button to launch a frequently used program, such as support and educational tools. You can reprogram the button to launch a program of your choice. For more information, see page 48. Left Side View PC Card slot audio connectors (2) CD or DVD drive PC C A R D SL O T -- Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter. For more information, see "Using PC Cards" in the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see page 80. A To ur of Yo ur Comput e r 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 AUDIO CONNECTORS Attach headphones or speakers to the Attach a microphone to the connector. connector. C D O R DV D DR I V E -- Accommodates a CD drive, DVD drive, CD-RW drive, or CD-RW/DVD combo drive. Right Side View security cable slot air vents battery/battery bay modem connector B A T T E R Y /B A T T E R Y BA Y -- When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. See page 41. 24 A To u r of Yo u r C om p u t e r MODE M C O N N E C T O R Connect the telephone line to the modem connector. For information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer. A I R VENTS -- The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a lowairflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. SE C U R I T Y CABLE S L O T -- Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device. NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot. NOTE: The fan runs constantly, and fan speed may vary depending on usage. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer. A To ur of Yo ur Comput e r 25 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Back View AC adapter connector air vents S-video TV-out connector USB connectors (2) video connector network connector A I R VENTS -- The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. NOTE: The fan runs constantly, and fan speed may vary depending on usage. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a lowairflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. A C ADAPTER C O N N E C T O R -- Attach an AC adapter to the computer. AC adapter AC adapter connector 26 A To u r of Yo u r C om p u t e r The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either on or off. CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to the power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage. CAUTION: Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a desk top or on the floor, when you use it to run the computer or to charge the battery. Do not cover the AC adapter with papers or other items that will reduce cooling; also, do not use the AC adapter inside a carrying case. NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the connector, not the cable itself, and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable. S-V I D E O TV- O U T CO N N E C T O R Connects your computer to a TV. For more information, see page 58. NOTE: Use only the 90-watt AC adapter that came with your computer. USB CO N N E C T O R S Connects USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. VIDEO CONNECTOR Connects an external monitor. For more information, see "Using the Display" in the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see page 80. A To ur of Yo ur Comput e r 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 NETWORK C O N N E C T O R NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the computer, do not plug a telephone line into the network connector. Connects the computer to a network. The lights next to the connector indicate activity for both wired and wireless network communications. For information on using the network adapter, see the online network adapter documentation supplied with your computer. Bottom View modem/Mini PCI card cover battery/battery bay air vent hard drive battery latch release memory module cover MO D E M / MI N I PCI C A R D C O V E R -- Covers the compartment that contains the modem and Mini PCI card. See page 103. 28 A To u r of Yo u r C om p u t e r B A T T E R Y / BATTER Y B A Y -- When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. See page 41. A I R VENTS -- The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a lowairflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. B A T T E R Y L A T C H REL E A S E -- Releases the battery. See page 44 for instructions. ME M O R Y MODULE C O V E R -- Covers the compartment that contains the memory module(s) and the CD or DVD drive latch release. See page 100. HA R D DR I V E -- Stores software and data. NOTE: The fan runs constantly, and fan speed may vary depending on usage. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer. A To ur of Yo ur Comput e r 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 30 A To u r of Yo u r C om p u t e r 2 SECTION 2 S e t t i n g U p Yo u r Computer DellTM QuickSet Features Connecting to the Internet Modem and Internet Connection Problems E-Mail Problems Transferring Information to a New Computer Setting Up a Printer Printer Problems Power Protection Devices Turning Off Your 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 DellTM QuickSet Features Dell QuickSet runs from the icon located in the taskbar and functions differently when you click, double-click, or right-click the icon. Clicking the QuickSet Icon Click the · · · · icon to perform the following tasks: Adjust power management settings using the Power Management Wizard. Adjust the size of icons and toolbars. Select a power scheme that you set in the Power Management Wizard. Turn presentation mode on or off. Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon Double-click the icon to adjust power management settings using the Power Management Wizard. Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon Right-click the · · · · · icon to perform the following tasks: Enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen. Enable or disable the Volume Meter on the screen. Turn wireless activity on or off. View Dell QuickSet Help. View the version and copyright date of the QuickSet program installed on your computer. icon in the For more information about QuickSet, right-click the taskbar and click Help. 32 Setting Up Yo ur Computer Connecting to the Internet To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP), such as AOL or MSN. Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: · Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a phone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections. DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing phone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your phone on the same line simultaneously. Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line. NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. · · 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 modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions. Setting Up Your Internet Connection To set up an AOL or MSN connection: 1 2 3 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Windows® desktop. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP: 1 2 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer. The New Connection Wizard appears. Click Connect to the Internet. 3 Setting Up Yo ur Comput er 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 4 In the next window, click the appropriate option: · · If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose from a list of Internet service providers (ISPs). If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click Set up my connection manually. If you have a CD, click Use the CD I got from an ISP . · 5 Click Next. If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP . 6 7 Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then click Next. Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "Modem and Internet Connection Problems." 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. Modem and Internet Connection Problems NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only. Connecting the modem to a digital telephone network damages the modem. NOTICE: Modem and network connectors look similar. Do not plug a telephone line into the network connector. NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your modem is functioning properly. If you are sure that your modem is working properly and you still experience problems, contact your ISP . C H E C K T H E T E L E P H O N E W A L L J A C K -- Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone. Ensure that you have touchtone telephone service. Try connecting the modem to a different telephone wall jack. Slow connection speeds can be caused by telephone noise as well as by telephone line or network conditions. Contact your telephone company or network administrator for more information. 34 Setting Up Yo ur Computer 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 use the telephone line to connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack. 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 modem. 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 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one. IR R E G U L A R D I A L T O N E -- If you have voice mail service, you might hear an irregular dial tone when you have messages. Contact your telephone company for instructions on restoring a dial tone. TUR N O F F C A L L W A I T I N G (C A T C H - P H O N E ) -- See your telephone directory for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking connection properties. 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware, click Phone and Modem Options, click the Dialing Rules tab, and then click Edit.... 3 In the Edit Location window, ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and then select the proper code as listed in your telephone directory. 4 Click Apply and click OK. 5 Close the Phone and Modems Options window. 6 Close the Control Panel window. 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 the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware and click Phone and Modem Options. 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. E-Mail Problems 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 INTE R N E T -- With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a check mark next to it, click the check mark to remove it and connect to the Internet. Setting Up Yo ur Comput er 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 Transferring Information to a New Computer The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer wizard to move data from the source computer to the new computer. You can move data such as: · · · · E-mails Toolbar settings Window sizes Internet bookmarks You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network connection, or you can store it on a removable medium, such as a writable CD or floppy disk. To prepare the new computer for the file transfer: 1 2 3 4 5 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories System Tools, and then click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next. On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next. On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD and click Next. When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do not click Next at this time. To copy data from the old computer: 1 2 3 4 On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System CD. On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks. Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings. On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next. 36 Setting Up Yo ur Computer 5 6 7 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next. On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer. On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer and click Next. After the information has been copied, the Completing the Collection Phase screen appears. 8 Click Finish. To transfer data to the new computer: 1 2 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next. On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next. The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer. When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished screen appears. 3 Click Finished and restart the new computer. 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. Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance. Setting Up Yo ur Comput er