User manual DELL INSPIRON 1300

DellTM InspironTM 1300/B120/B130 Owner's Manual Model PP21L 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 Glossary. 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. © 2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, DellNet, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, PowerVault, PowerApp, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Celeron, and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Outlook, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC 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 Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own. Model PP21L September 2005 P/N WD660 Rev. A01 Contents Finding Information ................................ 9 1 A Tour of Your Computer Front View .................................... .................................. ................................. 11 14 16 17 18 Left Side View Right Side View Back View .................................... ................................... Bottom View 2 Setting Up Your Computer Connecting to the Internet . ........................... .................... ................. ....... ....... 19 19 20 20 21 22 23 23 24 24 24 24 Setting Up Your Internet Connection Transferring Information to a New Computer . Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting Up a Printer ............................... ......................... ......................... Printer Cable . . . . . . . Connecting a USB Printer. Power Protection Devices . ........................... ...................... ...................... ...................... Surge Protectors . . . . . . . . Line Conditioners . . . . . . . . Uninterruptible Power Supplies Contents 3 3 Using the Display Adjusting Brightness. .............................. ........................... ........................... 25 25 26 Switching the Video Image Setting Display Resolution. 4 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Numeric Keypad ................................. ................................ ................ ................ ................ ................ ................ ................ ................ 27 28 28 28 28 28 28 29 29 30 30 Key Combinations System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CD or DVD Tray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Display Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Radios (Including Wireless Networking) . . Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . Speaker Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions Touch Pad .................................... ........................ Customizing the Touch Pad . 5 Using a Battery Battery Performance . .............................. .......................... ................... ................... ................... 31 32 32 32 32 32 33 34 37 38 39 Checking the Battery Charge DellTM QuickSet Battery Meter . . . . Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . Conserving Battery Power . ........................... ................. ................. Power Management Modes . . . . . . . Configuring Power Management Settings Charging the Battery . Replacing the Battery Storing a Battery . .............................. .............................. ................................ 4 Contents 6 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia Playing a CD or DVD ............................... .............................. .............................. ............................. ........................ ........................ ........................ 41 42 43 43 43 44 45 Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture Copying CDs and DVDs. How to Copy a CD or DVD. . Using Blank CDs and DVDs . Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . . 7 Using ExpressCards ExpressCard Types . ExpressCard Blanks ............................... ............................... ............................ ...................... 47 47 47 48 Installing an ExpressCard Removing an ExpressCard or Blank . 8 Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to a Network Adapter . Network Setup Wizard ....................... 49 49 50 50 50 ........................... ................ .... .... Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network . Determining Your Network Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP . 9 DellTM QuickSet Features Clicking the QuickSet Icon ........................... ....................... 53 53 53 Double-Clicking the QuickSet Icon Right-Clicking the QuickSet Icon ........................ Contents 5 10 Solving Problems Dell Diagnostics Drive Problems . ................................. ................................. ........................ ........................ .................... 55 58 58 59 59 60 64 64 64 65 65 65 65 65 65 66 66 67 67 67 68 68 69 69 69 70 70 70 CD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problems . . . . E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems . Error Messages ................................. ............................... ........................ ........................ ........................ ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... Keyboard Problems External Keyboard problems Unexpected characters. . . Lockups and Software Problems The computer does not start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly . . . . . A program is designed for an earlier Microsoft® Windows® operating system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memory Problems ................................ ............................... ............................. Network Problems . ExpressCard Problems . Power Problems ................................. ............... Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer Printer Problems . Scanner Problems ................................ ................................ ......................... .................... .................... .................... Sound and Speaker Problems . No sound from integrated speakers No sound from external speakers . No sound from headphones . . . . Touch Pad or Mouse Problems ......................... 6 Contents Video and Display Problems . .......................... ................... ................... ................... 71 71 71 72 72 72 72 73 75 75 76 77 79 If the display is blank . . . . . . . . . If the display is difficult to read . . . . If only part of the display is readable . Drivers ...................................... ...................... ...................... ...................... ............. What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . . Identifying Drivers . . . . . . . Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Restoring Your Operating System ........................ .............. .............. .............. Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore . Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec . . . . . . Using the Operating System CD. . . . . . . . . 11 Adding and Replacing Parts Before You Begin. ................................ .................. .................. .................. 81 81 81 81 83 85 85 86 90 94 95 Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . . . Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . . Before Working Inside Your Computer . Hard Drive .................................... ....................... Returning a Hard Drive to Dell CD/DVD Drive. Memory. .................................. ..................................... ............................. Wireless Mini PCI Card Hinge Cover Keyboard ................................... ..................................... 12 Appendix Specifications .................................. ....................... .................... .................... 97 103 103 103 Using the System Setup Program Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . Viewing the System Setup Screen Contents 7 System Setup Screen . . Commonly Used Options ......................... ......................... ........................ .................... .................... .................... .................... .................... 103 103 105 105 105 105 106 106 107 107 107 107 108 108 109 109 109 109 110 Travelling With Your Computer Identifying Your Computer . . . . Packing the Computer . . . . . . Travel Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . Travelling by Air . . . . . . . . . . If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen Cleaning Your Computer . ........................... .................... .................... .................... Computer, Keyboard, and Display Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . CDs and DVDs. . . . . . . . . . . FCC Notices (U.S. Only) FCC Class B ............................ ................................ ......................... .................. ......... ......... Macrovision Product Notice. Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) . Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals. . Contacting Dell. ................................ Glossary Index . ..................................... 127 137 ....................................... 8 Contents Finding Information NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or media may not be available in certain countries. NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer. What Are You Looking For? · · · · · · · · · How to set up my computer Basic troubleshooting information How to run the Dell Diagnostics How to set up a printer Additional information about setting up my computer How to troubleshoot and solve problems How to remove and install parts Specifications How to contact Dell Find It Here Owner's Manual NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at support.dell.com. · · · · · · Warranty information Terms and Conditions (U.S. only) Safety instructions Regulatory information Ergonomics information End User License Agreement DellTM Product Information Guide · Service Tag and Express Service Code · Microsoft Windows License Label Service Tag and Microsoft® Windows® License These labels are located on the bottom of your computer. · Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use support.dell.com or contact technical support. · Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting technical support. Finding Information 9 What Are You Looking For? · Solutions -- Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online courses, frequently asked questions · Community -- Online discussion with other Dell customers · Upgrades -- Upgrade information for components, such as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system · Customer Care -- Contact information, service call and order status, warranty, and repair information · Service and support -- Service call status and support history, service contract, online discussions with technical support · Reference -- Computer documentation, details on my computer configuration, product specifications, and white papers · Downloads -- Certified drivers, patches, and software updates Find It Here Dell Support Website -- support.dell.com NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support site. NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website at premier.support.dell.com. · Notebook System Software (NSS)-- If you reinstall the To download Notebook System Software: operating system for your computer, you should also 1 Go to support.dell.com and click Downloads. reinstall the NSS utility. NSS provides critical updates 2 Enter your Service Tag or product model. for your operating system and support for DellTM 3 In the Download Category drop-down menu, click All. 3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel® Pentium® M 4 Select the operating system and operating system processors, optical drives, and USB devices. NSS is language for your computer, and click Submit. necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. 5 Under Select a Device, scroll to System and The software automatically detects your computer and Configuration Utilities, and click Dell Notebook System operating system and installs the updates appropriate Software. for your configuration. · How to use Windows XP · How to work with programs and files · How to personalize my desktop Windows Help and Support Center 1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon. 3 Click the topic that describes your problem. 4 Follow the instructions on the screen. 10 Finding Information A Tour of Your Computer Front View 1 2 3 4 10 9 5 6 8 7 1 2 3 4 display latch release display latches (2) display keyboard status lights 5 6 7 8 touch pad touch pad buttons speakers device status lights 9 10 keyboard power button A Tour of Your Computer 11 DISPLAY LATCH RELEASE DISPLAY LATCHES DISPLAY -- Slide to release the display latches and open the display. -- Keeps the display closed. -- For more information about your display, see "Using the Display." KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following: 9 A Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled. Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled. Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled. T O U C H P A D /T O U C H P A D B U T T O N S SPEAKERS -- Provides the functionality of a mouse. -- To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the speaker-volume keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Speaker Functions." 12 A Tour of Your Computer DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS Turns on when you turn on the computer, and blinks when the computer is in a 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 Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status. light is flashing. Turns on when wireless networking is enabled. To enable or disable wireless networking, press . NOTE: Wireless networking is optional and may not be available on your computer. If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the · · · · · Solid green: The battery is charging. Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged. light operates as follows: If the computer is running on a battery, the Flashing orange: The battery charge is low. light operates as follows: Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off). Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low. KEYBOARD -- The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft Windows logo key. For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Key Combinations." -- Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power management mode. POWER BUTTON NOTICE: To avoid losing data when you turn off your computer, shut down your computer through the Start menu instead of pressing the power button. A Tour of Your Computer 13 Left Side View 1 1 2 3 modem connector network connector video connector 2 4 5 6 3 4 USB connectors (3) 5 6 7 8 7 8 ExpressCard slot ExpressCard slot release button microphone connector headphone connector MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11) To use the internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector. For additional information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer. 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. 14 A Tour of Your Computer NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45) Connects the computer to a network. The green and yellow lights next to the connector indicate activity for wired network communications. For information on using the network adapter, see the online network adapter documentation supplied with your computer. VIDEO CONNECTOR Connects an external VGA-compatible monitor. USB CONNECTORS Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. You can also connect the optional floppy drive directly to a USB connector using the optional floppy-drive cable. AUDIO CONNECTORS Attach headphones or speakers to the Attach a microphone to the connector. connector. EXPRESS C A R D S L O T -- Supports one ExpressCard. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see "Using ExpressCards." A Tour of Your Computer 15 Right Side View 1 1 optical drive bay 2 2 optical drive-tray eject button 3 3 security cable slot O P T I C A L D R I V E -- You can install devices such as a DVD drive or other optical drive in the optical drive bay. For more information, see "CD/DVD Drive." O P T I C A L -D R I V E - T R A Y E J E C T B U T T O N SECURITY CABLE SLOT -- Press this button to eject a CD or DVD from the optical drive. -- 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. 16 A Tour of Your Computer Back View 1 1 AC adapter connector 2 air vent 2 A C A D A P T E R C O N N E C T O R -- AT T A C H E S A N A C A D A P T E R T O T H E C O M 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. 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. CAUTION: Do not block or push objects into the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. AIR VENT -- The computer uses fans to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. A Tour of Your Computer 17 Bottom View 1 2 3 8 7 6 1 2 3 memory module/Mini PCI cover optical drive locking screw hard drive cover 4 5 6 battery 5 4 7 8 thermal module cover fan battery-bay latch lock battery-bay latch release MEMORY MODULE/MINI P C I C O V E R -- Covers the compartment that contains the memory module(s) and Mini PCI card. For more information on replacing memory, see "Memory." For more information on replacing the Mini PCI card, see "Wireless Mini PCI Card." -- Secures the optical drive in the optical drive bay. For more information, see "CD/DVD Drive." OPTICAL DRIVE LOCKING SCREW HARD DRIVE -- Stores software and data. For more information, see "Hard Drive." B A T T E R Y -- When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. For more information, see "Using a Battery." BATTERY-BAY LATCH LOCK -- Unlocks the battery so that it can be released from the battery bay. -- Releases the battery from the battery bay. See "Replacing the Battery." -- Covers the processor and thermal module. BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE PROCESSOR AND THERMAL MODULE COVER FAN -- The computer uses fans to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. 18 A Tour of Your Computer Setting Up Your Computer Connecting to the Internet NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP). Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: · · Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections. DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same line simultaneously. Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line. · 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 Internet connection with a provided ISP desktop shortcut: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. 3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer. The New Connection Wizard appears. 3 Click Connect to the Internet. 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). Setting Up Your Computer 19 · · 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 Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then click Next. 7 Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet 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. Transferring Information to a New Computer The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data from a source computer to a new computer. You can transfer data, such as: · · · · E-mail messages Toolbar settings Window sizes Internet bookmarks You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or USB connection, or you can store it on a removable medium, such as a writable CD or floppy, for transfer to the new computer. NOTE: You can transfer information from the old computer to the new computer by directly connecting the two computers with a USB cable. To transfer data over a USB connection, you must access the Network Connections utility from the Control Panel and perform additional configuration steps, such as setting up an advanced connection and designating the host computer and the guest computer. For instructions on setting up a direct cable connection between two computers, see Microsoft Knowledge Base Article #305621, titled How to Set Up a Direct Cable Connection Between Two Computers in Windows XP. This information may not be available in some countries. For transferring information to a new computer, you must run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. You can use the optional Operating System CD for this process or you can create a wizard disk with the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard utility. Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard With the Operating System CD NOTE: This procedure requires the Operating System CD. This CD is optional and may not be included with all computers. 20 Setting Up Your Computer To prepare the new computer for the file transfer: 1 Start the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. 2 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next. 3 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next. 4 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD and click Next. 5 When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your old or source computer. Do not click Next at this time. To copy data from the old computer: 1 On the old computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System CD. 2 On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks. 3 Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings. 4 On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next. 5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next. 6 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer. 7 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 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next. 2 On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next. The Files and Settings Transfer 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. Running the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard Without the Operating System CD To run the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard without the optional Operating System CD, you must create a wizard disk that will allow you to create a backup image file to removable media. To create a wizard disk, use your new computer with Windows XP and perform the following steps: 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. 3 When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next. Setting Up Your Computer 21 4 On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next. 5 On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I want to create a Wizard Disk in the following drive: and click Next. 6 Insert the removable media, such as a floppy disk or CD, and click OK. 7 When the disk creation completes and the Now go to your old computer message appears, do not click Next. 8 Go to the old computer. To copy data from the old computer: 1 On the old computer, insert the wizard disk. 2 Click the Start button and click Run. 3 In the Open field on the Run window, browse to the path for fastwiz (on the appropriate removable media) and click OK. 4 On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next. 5 On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next. 6 On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer. 7 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 On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next. 2 On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next. Follow the instructions on the screen. 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. NOTE: For more information about this procedure, search dell.support.com for document #PA1089586 (How Do I Transfer Files From My Old Computer to My New DellTM Computer Using the Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System?). NOTE: Access to the Dell Knowledge Base document may not be available in some countries. Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer. 22 Setting Up Your Computer See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to: · · · Obtain and install updated drivers. Connect the printer to the computer. Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge. For technical assistance, refer to the printer owner's manual or contact the printer manufacturer. Printer Cable Your printer connects to your computer with a USB cable. Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer and computer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the box in which your computer was shipped. Connecting a USB Printer NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on. 1 Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so. 2 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way. 1 3 2 1 USB connector on computer 2 USB printer cable 3 connector on printer Setting Up Your Computer 23 3 Turn on the printer and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel. 4 Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer. Power Protection Devices Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures: · · · Surge protectors Line conditioners Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) Surge Protectors Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help prevent damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or after power interruptions. Some surge protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain types of damage. Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge protector. A device with a higher joule rating offers more protection. Compare joule ratings to determine the relative effectiveness of different devices. NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or power interruptions caused by nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in your area, disconnect the telephone line from the telephone wall jack and disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet. Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem protection. See the surge protector documentation for modem connection instructions. NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the network cable from the network wall jack during electrical storms. Line Conditioners NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions. Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level. Uninterruptible Power Supplies NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage. NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection. A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices contain a battery that provides temporary power to connected devices when AC power is interrupted. The battery charges while AC power is available. See the UPS manufacturer documentation for information on battery operating time and to ensure that the device is approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). 24 Setting Up Your Computer Using the Display Adjusting Brightness When a DellTM computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard. The Dell QuickSet Brightness Meter shows the current brightness setting for the display. Right-click the icon in the taskbar to enable or disable the Brightness Meter on the screen. NOTE: By default, the Brightness Meter appears in the lower-right corner of the display. You can click and drag the meter to a preferred location. NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors that you attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter appears, but the brightness level on the monitor does not change. You can enable or disable the Brightness Meter from the QuickSet taskbar menu. When the meter is enabled, press the following keys to adjust brightness: · · Press and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). Press and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). icon in the taskbar and click Help. For more information on using QuickSet, right-click the Switching the Video Image When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector) attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the external device. Press to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously. Using the Display 25 Setting Display Resolution To display a program at a specific resolution, both the graphics card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed. Before you change any of the default display settings, make a note of the default settings for future reference. If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values. 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Under Pick a category, click Appearance and Themes. 3 Under Pick a task..., click the area you want to change, or under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Display. 4 Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution. NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen. 26 Using the Display Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Numeric Keypad 1 1 numeric keypad The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, press and the desired key after enabling the keypad. · · To enable the keypad, press . The To disable the keypad, press again. 9 light indicates that the keypad is active. Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 27 Key Combinations System Functions Opens the Task Manager window. CD or DVD Tray Ejects the tray out of the drive (if Dell QuickSet is installed). For more information on QuickSet, see "DellTM QuickSet Features." Display Functions Switches the video image to the next display option. The options include the integrated display, an external monitor, and both displays simultaneously. and up-arrow key Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). and down-arrow key Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). Radios (Including Wireless Networking) Enables and disables radios, including wireless networking. NOTE: Wireless networking is optional and may not be available on your computer. Power Management Activates a power management mode. You can reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window. See "Power Management Modes." 28 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Speaker Functions Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attached. Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attached. Enables and disables the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attached. Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions Windows logo key and Windows logo key and Minimizes all open windows. Maximizes all windows. Windows logo key and Runs Windows Explorer. Windows logo key and Opens the Run dialog box. Windows logo key and Opens the Search Results dialog box. Windows logo key and Windows logo key and Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if the computer is connected to a network). Opens the System Properties dialog box. To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and click Keyboard. For information about the Control Panel, see "Windows Help and Support Center." Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 29 Touch Pad The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow you to move the cursor on the display. Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons as you would use a mouse. 1 1 touch pad · · · To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad. To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch-pad button. To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad. On the second tap, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected object by sliding your finger over the surface. To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch-pad button twice. · Customizing the Touch Pad You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad or adjust their settings. 1 Open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click Mouse. For information about the Control Panel, see "Windows Help and Support Center." 2 In the Mouse Properties window, click the Touch Pad tab to adjust touch pad settings. 3 Click OK to save the settings and close the window. 30 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Using a Battery Battery Performance NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer. For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your DellTM portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay. Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following: · Using optical drives NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD. · · · Using wireless communications devices, ExpressCards, or USB devices Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as 3D games Running the computer in maximum performance mode NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on how often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer. CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer. CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or environmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage. Using a Battery 31 Checking the Battery Charge The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge. icon, and the DellTM QuickSet Battery Meter If Dell QuickSet is installed, press to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter window displays status, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer.The following icons appear in the Battery Meter window: The computer is running on battery power. The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is charging. The computer is connected to AC power and the battery is fully charged. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help. Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, doubleclick the icon on the taskbar. If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears. Low-Battery Warning NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery warning. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically. A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. Conserving Battery Power Perform the following actions to conserve battery power: · · Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible because battery life is largely determined by the number of times the battery is used and recharged. Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time. 32 Using a Battery · Use the Power Management Wizard to select options to optimize your computer's power usage. These options can also be set to change when you press the power button, close the display, or press . See "Power Management Wizard." NOTE: See "Battery Performance" for more information on conserving battery power. Power Management Modes Standby Mode Standby mode conserves power by turning off the display and the hard drive after a predetermined period of inactivity (a time-out). When the computer exits standby mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering standby mode. NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in standby mode, it may lose data. To enter standby mode: · · Click the Start button, click Turn off computer, and then click Stand by. or Depending on how you set the power management options on the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window, use one of the following methods: ­ ­ ­ Press the power button. Close the display. Press . To exit standby mode, press the power button or open the display depending on how you set the options on the Advanced tab. You cannot make the computer exit standby mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad. Hibernate Mode Hibernate mode conserves power by copying system data to a reserved area on the hard drive and then completely turning off the computer. When the computer exits hibernate mode, it returns to the same operating state it was in before entering hibernate mode. NOTICE: You cannot remove devices or undock your computer while your computer is in hibernate mode. Your computer enters hibernate mode if the battery charge level becomes critically low. To manually enter hibernate mode: · Click the Start button, click Turn off computer, press and hold , and then click Hibernate. or Using a Battery 33 · Depending on how you set the power management options on the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window, use one of the following methods to enter hibernate mode: ­ ­ ­ Press the power button. Close the display. Press . NOTE: ExpressCards may not operate correctly after the computer exits hibernate mode. Remove and reinsert the card, or simply restart (reboot) your computer. To exit hibernate mode, press the power button. The computer may take a short time to exit hibernate mode. You cannot make the computer exit hibernate mode by pressing a key or touching the touch pad. For more information on hibernate mode, see the documentation that came with your operating system.