User manual DELL INSPIRON 2500

DellTM InspironTM 2500 Solutions Guide www.dell.com | support.dell.com Hints, Notices, and Cautions 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. Abbreviations and Acronyms For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Tell Me How help file. To access the help file, see page30. ____________________ Information in this document is subject to change without notice. ©2001DellComputerCorporation.Allrightsreserved. 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, Inspiron , DellPlus, Dell TravelLite, Dell Precision, Dimension , OptiPlex , Latitude , Dell TrueMobile, and DellWare are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks andCeleron is a trademark 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. September 2001 P/N 4J175 Rev. A00 Contents Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers Safety Instructions EMC Instructions . . . . . When Using Your Computer ........ 9 9 13 14 15 17 17 ....................... ................... ................... .................. ......... ......... Ergonomic Computing Habits When Removing or Installing Memory Modules Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge . . 1 Setting Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Connecting a Printer Parallel Printer USB Printer . ........................ 20 20 21 22 23 23 24 24 24 25 ......................... ......................... ................... 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 Me and Windows 2000 Using the Media Bay Swapping Devices ........................ ........................ Contents 3 2 Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Finding Solutions Accessing Help Power Problems ......................... 28 30 31 32 32 32 33 34 34 34 35 35 36 38 40 40 40 41 41 41 42 42 43 43 44 .......................... .......................... ..................... .................... ................ ................ Start-Up Error Messages Video and Display Problems If the display is blank . . . . . If the display is difficult to read Sound and Speaker Problems Integrated Speakers External Speakers . Printer Problems ................... ...................... ...................... ......................... .......... .......... If you cannot print to a parallel port printer If you cannot print to a USB printer . . . . Modem Problems Scanner Problems ......................... ......................... ........................ ................... Touch Pad Problems External Keyboard Problems Unexpected Characters 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 the CD-RW drive stops writing . If you have a hard drive problem Network Problems ...... ...... ............... ................ ......................... 4 Contents Microsoft ® Windows ® Error Messages General Program Problems A program crashes .............. 44 45 45 45 46 46 46 46 48 48 49 50 50 51 54 54 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 60 62 64 65 ..................... ....................... ................... .......... .......... A program stops responding A program error causes the system to lock up A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . A program is designed for an earlier version of the Windows operating systems . . . . . . . . . . . . Internet Connection Problems E-Mail Problems ....... ................... .......................... .................... .............. If Your Computer Gets Wet If You Drop or Damage Your Computer Resolving Other Technical Problems Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities ................ .................. Reinstalling the Modem or Network Adapter Driver (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using the Windows XP Device Driver Rollback ....... ......... ....... Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Windows XP Windows Me .......................... .......................... ......................... ....................... .................... ...... ...... 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 Me . Reinstalling Windows 2000 Enabling Hibernate Support . Contents 5 3 Adding Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Replacing the Palm Rest Inserts Adding Memory ................. 68 69 72 74 .......................... ...................... ................ Replacing a Hard Drive Returning a Hard Drive to Dell . 4 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Specifications ........................... ......................... ..................... ..................... ............ .... .... 76 82 82 83 84 84 85 85 85 99 99 101 104 105 106 106 107 109 Standard Settings System Setup Screens Viewing Settings . . . 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 ...................... .................... .................... ................ ....... FCC Notices (U.S. Only) Battery Disposal . . . . NOM Information (Mexico Only) Información para NOM (únicamente para México) Warranty and Return Policy Information ............. ............ .......... One-Year Limited Warranty (U.S. Only) One-Year Limited Warranty (Canada Only) . 6 Contents One-Year End-User Manufacturer Guarantee (Latin America and the Caribbean Only) . . . Guarantee . Exclusions .......... 111 111 112 112 113 .......................... .......................... ........................ .............. Making a Claim "Total Satisfaction" Return Policy (U.S. and Canada Only) . . . . . . Index .................................. 115 Contents 7 8 Contents Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers The following information defines the meaning of additional symbols used only in the Safety and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Instructions. Risk of explosion Aircraft Risk of fire Use of this feature may be prohibited on aircraft Risk of electric shock Safety Instructions General · Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are an authorized 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. 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. · · · Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers 9 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m · 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. 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. PC Cards may become very warm during normal operation. Use care when removing PC Cards after their continuous operation. Before you clean your computer, remove power. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances. · · · · · · 10 Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers Power (Safety Instructions, continued) · 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 power from the computer, turn it off, remove the battery pack, and disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet. To help prevent electric shock, plug the AC adapter and peripheral power cables into properly grounded power sources. These power cables may be equipped with three-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, twoprong or three-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. 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. · · · · · Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers 11 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m Battery (Safety Instructions, continued) · Use only Dell 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 battert 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. · · · · · 12 Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers Air Travel (Safety Instructions, continued) · Certain Federal Aviation Administration regulations and/or airline-specific restrictions may apply to the operation of your DellTM 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 world-wide website at http://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. · Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers 13 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m 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 strainrelief 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. · 14 Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers · When preparing to remove a memory module from the system board or disconnect a peripheral 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. Clean the display with a soft, clean cloth and commercial window cleaner that does not contain wax or abrasives. Apply the cleaner to the cloth; then stroke the cloth across the display in one direction, moving from the top of the display to the bottom. If the display contains grease or some other contaminant, use isopropyl alcohol instead of commercial window cleaner. If your computer gets wet or is damaged, follow the procedures described in "If Your Computer Gets Wet" (see page48). If, after following these procedures, you confirm that your computer is not operating properly, contact Dell. (See page85 for the appropriate telephone number.) · · 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 following ergonomic guidelines when setting up and using your computer: · · Position your computer directly in front of you as you work. Adjust the tilt of the computer's display, its contrast and/or 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 display. When using an external monitor with your computer, set the monitor at a comfortable viewing distance (usually 510 to 610 millimeters [20to 24 inches] from your eyes). Make sure the monitor screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor. 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, touch pad, track stick, or external mouse. · · · Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers 15 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m · · · · Always use the palm rest with the keyboard, touch pad, or track stick. Leave space to rest your hands when using an external 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. · wrists relaxed and flat computer positioned directly in front of user arms at desk level 16 Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers When Removing or Installing Memory Modules Before removing or installing memory modules, 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. NOTICE: Wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting a peripheral device or removing a memory module to help prevent possible damage to the system board . 1 2 Turn off your computer and any attached peripherals. Disconnect your computer and peripherals from electrical outlets to reduce the potential for personal injury or shock. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer. Remove the battery from the battery compartment. 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. 3 4 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. Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers 17 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m · · 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. The following notice may appear throughout this document to remind you of these precautions: NOTICE: See "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the safety instructions at the front of this guide. 18 Safety and EMC Instructions: Portable Computers 1 SECTION 1 Setting Up 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 Using the Media Bay w w w . d el l . co m | s u p p o r t . d el l .c o m w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m Connecting a Printer 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 page24). NOTICE: Use only a standard IEEE parallel cable measuring 3 m (10ft) or less to connect the printer to the computer. Use of a nonstandard cable may prevent the printer from working. 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. 20 Setting Up screws (2) parallel connector on computer parallel connector on printer clips (2) parallel printer cable 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 page22). USB Printer 1 2 Install the printer driver if necessary (see page22). Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connector on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way. HINT: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on. Setting Up 21 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m USB connector on back of computer USB printer cable USB connector on printer Installing the Printer Driver HINT: For complete printer driver installation instructions, refer to your printer documentation. To determine whether your printer driver is installed on a computer running the Microsoft® 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 either Microsoft Windows 2000 or Windows Millennium Edition (Me), click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If your printer model is listed in the Printers window, the printer is ready to use. If you need to install a printer driver, insert the installation CD into the CD or DVD drive. Then follow the prompts on the screen and use the instructions that came with the printer. 22 Setting Up If your printer installation CD does not automatically run, click the Start button, 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. Transferring Information to a New Computer (Windows® XP Only) 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, you can launch the wizard from the Windows XP operating system CD or from a floppy disk created on a computer that is running Windows XP. You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or serial connection, or you can store it on a removable medium, such as a floppy disk, a Zip disk, or a writable CD. 1 On the computer running Windows XP, click Start, 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. 2 3 4 Setting Up a Home and Office Network (Windows XP Only) 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. Setting Up 23 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m 1 2 3 HINT: Selecting the This computer connects directly to the Internet connection method enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP. 4 5 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. Turning Off the Computer 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 difficulties turning off your computer, see "General Program Problems" on page45. 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. Windows Me and Windows 2000 1 2 3 4 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. Click the Start button and then click Shut Down. Click the pull-down menu under What do you want the computer to do?. Click Shut down and then click OK. The computer automatically turns off after the shutdown process finishes. Using the Media Bay The media bay supports a variety of devices such as a floppy drive, an internal Zip drive, or a Dell TravelLiteTM module. 24 Setting Up Swapping Devices 1 2 3 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer (see page24). Close the display and turn the computer over. Slide and hold the latch release, and pull the device out of the media bay. NOTICE: To prevent damage, place devices in a travel case when they are not inserted into the computer. Store devices in a dry, safe place, and avoid placing heavy objects on top of them. bottom of computer device latch release NOTICE: Insert devices before you dock and turn on the computer. 4 5 Insert the new device into the bay, and push it until you hear a click. Turn on the computer. Setting Up 25 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m 26 Setting Up 2 SECTION 2 Solving Problems Finding Solutions Accessing Help Power Problems Start-Up Error Messages Video and Display Problems Sound and Speaker Problems Printer Problems Modem Problems Scanner Problems Touch Pad Problems External Keyboard Problems Unexpected Characters Drive Problems Network Problems Microsoft® Windows® Error Messages General Program Problems Internet Connection Problems E-Mail Problems If Your Computer Gets Wet If You Drop or Damage Your Computer Resolving Other Technical Problems Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Using System Restore Reinstalling Windows XP Reinstalling Windows Me Reinstalling Windows 2000 w w w . d el l . co m | s u p p o r t . d el l .c o m w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m Finding Solutions Sometimes it's difficult to figure out where to go for answers. Use this chart to quickly find the answers to your questions. HINT: If you have a problem with an external device, see the device documentation or contact the manufacturer. See page31. Press the power button to resume from standby mode. See the Tell Me How help file for more information on standby mode. Get technical assistance from Dell. See page85. See page44. 28 Solving Problems See page32. See page34. See page35. See page38. See page40. See page40. See page40. See page41. See page41. See page44. See page44. See page45. See page46. See page48. See page50. Solving Problems 29 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m Accessing Help TO A C CE S S T H E T EL L M E H O W H EL P F I L E Microsoft® Windows® XP 1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Click User and system guides and click User's guides. 3 Click Tell Me How. Windows Millennium Edition (Me) and Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Programs, point to User's Guides, and then click Tell Me How. TO 1 2 A C CE S S H EL P I N W I N D O W S X P Click the Start button and then click Help and Support. 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 1 A C CE S S H EL P I N W I N D O W S M E Click the Start button and then click Help. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem in the Search box and then click Go. 3 Click the topic that describes your problem and then click Display. 4 Follow the instructions shown on the screen. TO 1 A C CE S S H EL P I N W I N D O W S 2 0 0 0 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. 30 Solving Problems Power Problems CH 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 the power button to resume from standby mode. If the power light is off, press the power button. CH E C K T H E B A T T E R Y -- If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet, using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer. T E 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. CH E C K T H E AC A D A P T E R -- Be sure that the power cable is firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the green light on the AC adapter is on. CO N N E C T T H E C OM P U T ER DI R EC TL Y TO A N EL EC TR I C AL O U T LE T-- HINT: See the Tell Me How help file for information on standby mode. Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on. CH 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, too many devices on a power strip, or multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet. CH E C K T H E P O W E R PRO P E R T I E S -- See the Tell Me How help or search for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center (Help in Windows Me and Windows 2000). To access help, see page30. RE S E A T T H E M E M O R Y M O D U L E S -- If the computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, you may need to reseat the memory modules (see page69). Solving Problems 31 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m Start-Up Error Messages O P ER A TI N G S Y S T E M (see page85). N O T F O U N D -- Contact Dell for technical assistance 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 -S Y S T E M D I S K E R R O R -- A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy disk and restart the computer. Video and Display Problems If the display is blank C H E C K T H E P O W E R L I G H T -- When the power light is blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode--press the power button to exit standby mode. If the power light is off, press the power button. C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y -- If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer. T E 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. C H E C K T H E AC A D A P T E R -- Be sure that the power cable is firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the green light on the AC adapter is on. C H E C K T H E P O W E R P R O P E R T I E S -- Search for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center (Help in Windows Me and Windows 2000). To access help, see page30. 32 Solving Problems If the display is difficult to read AD J U S T T H E B R I G H T N E S S -- See the Tell Me How help file (see page30) for instructions on adjusting the 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 C O M P U T E R O R M O N I T O R -- If your external speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor. EL 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. RO T A T E T H E C O M P U T E R T O F A C E A D I F F E R E N T sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality. D I R E C T I O N -- Eliminate 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 on changing the resolution. To access the help file, see page30. A DJ U S T W I N DO W S DI S P LA Y S E T TI N G S Windows XP 1 Click t he Start button and then click Control Panel. 2 Click Appearance and Themes. 3 Click t he area you want to change or click the Display icon. 4 Try different settings for Colors and Screen area. Windows Me and 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. Solving Problems 33 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m Sound and Speaker Problems Integrated Speakers A D J U S T T H E WI 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 Me and Windows 2000, double-click 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. C H E C K T H E V O L U M E C O N T R O L B U T T O N S -- Press both volume control buttons simultaneously or press to disable (mute) or reenable the integrated speakers. R EI N S T AL L T HE SO U N D ( A U D I O ) D R I VE R-- See page50. External Speakers 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. E N S U RE TH A T T H E S U B W OO F ER A N D T H E S P E AK E R S O N -- See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. A RE T U R N ED 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. V E R I F Y T H E S P E A K E R C A B L E C O N N E C T IO N S -- Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. T E 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. E N S U RE TH A T T H E S P E AK E RS supplied with the speakers. A RE T U R N ED O N -- See the setup diagram A D J U S T T H E S P E A K E R C O N T R O L S -- Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion. 34 Solving Problems AD J U S T T H E WI 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 Me and Windows 2000, double-click 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. T E S T T H E S P E A K E R S -- Plug the speaker audio cable into the headphone connector on the side of the computer. Ensure that the headphone volume control is turned up. Play a music CD. RU N T H E S P E A K E R S E L F -T E S T -- Some speaker systems have a self-test button on the subwoofer. See the speaker documentation for self-test instructions. EL 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. RE I N S T A L L TH E S O U N D (A U D I O ) D R I V E R -- See page50. Printer Problems If you cannot print to a parallel port printer VE R I F Y 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 page20. T E 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. EN S U R E T H A T T H E P R I N T E R supplied with the printer. I S T U R N E D O N -- See the documentation Solving Problems 35 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m V ER I FY TH AT T H E P R I N TE R I S RE CO G N I Z ED B Y W I N D OW 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 model 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 Me and Windows 2000 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer model is listed, right-click the printer icon. 2 Click Properties, and then select the Details tab in Windows Me and the Ports tab in Windows 2000. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). R EI N S T AL L T H E P R I N TE R D RI V ER -- See page22. If you cannot print to a USB printer V E R I F Y 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 page21. T E 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. E N S U R E T H A T T H E P R IN T E R supplied with the printer. I S T U R N ED O N -- See the documentation 36 Solving Problems VE R I F Y T H A T TH E P RI N T E R I S R EC O GN I Z E D B Y WI 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 model 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 Me and Windows 2000 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer model is listed, right-click the printer icon. 2 Click Properties, and then select the Details tab in Windows Me and the Port tab in Windows 2000. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB. RE I N S T A L L TH E P RI N T E R DR I VE R-- See page22. Solving Problems 37 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m Modem Problems NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only. Connecting the modem to a digital telephone network damages the modem. 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 EC K modem. TH E C O N N EC TI O N -- Verify that the telephone line is connected to the 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. 38 Solving Problems VE R I F Y T H A T TH E MO D EM I S C OM M U N I CA TI N G W I TH W IN 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 Me 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel 2 In the Control Panel window, double-click Modems. If multiple entries appear for the same modem, or if modems are listed that are not installed, delete the entries and restart the computer. 3 Click the Diagnostics tab. 4 Click the COM port for your modem. 5 Click More Info to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly. 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 the commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly. Solving Problems 39 w w w . d e ll . c o m | s u p p o r t .d el l . c o m Scanner Problems 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 -- Ensure that the scanner 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. R EI N S T AL L instructions. T H E S C A N N E R D R I V E R -- See the scanner documentation for