User manual DELL INSPIRON 4000

DellTM InspironTM 4000 System 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 potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. Abbreviations and Acronyms For a complete listing of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Glossary in the Tell Me How help file (see the Start Here sheet for instructions on how to open the help file). ____________________ Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2000 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 E COM logo, Dellnet, the Dellnet logo, Dell TravelLite, Inspiron, and DellWare are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks and Celeron is a trademark of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows and 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. August 2000 P/N 77JUC Rev. A00 Contents Safety Instructions ......................... ................... 7 7 When Using Your Computer When Removing or Installing Memory Modules Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge . . . . . . . . . 10 . . . . . . . . . . . 11 1 Setting Up Setting Up DellnetTM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Accessing the Internet . Accessing Your E-Mail Viewing Your Account Information Sending and Receiving E-Mail Resetting E-Mail Address Settings Connecting a Printer Parallel Printer USB Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Installing the Printer Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 . . . . . 18 Turning Off the Computer Windows 98 Windows Millennium Edition (Me) and Windows 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 . . . . . . 19 Using the Modular Bay Swapping Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off Swapping Devices While Windows Is Running Setting Up the APR to Connect to a Network Setting Up the APR for Windows 2000 . . . . . . . . . . 21 . . . . . . . . . . . 22 . . . . . 22 Setting Up the APR for Windows Me and Windows 98 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Contents 3 2 Solving Problems Finding Solutions ......................... ....................... 26 28 29 30 30 30 31 32 32 32 33 33 34 34 35 35 36 36 36 36 37 38 38 38 39 Accessing Help Files . Power Problems .......................... ..................... .................... 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 you have a hard drive problem Network Problems ................ ................ ............... If the CD-RW drive stops writing . ................ ......................... 4 Conte n ts Windows Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 General Program Problems A program crashes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 A program stops responding . A solid blue screen appears Internet Connection Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 . . . . . . . . 41 If you have a problem with your Dellnet account . E-Mail Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 If Your Computer Gets Wet . If You Drop or Damage Your Computer Resolving Other Technical Problems Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities Reinstalling Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Reinstalling Windows Me and Windows 98 Reinstalling Windows 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 . . . . . . . . . 48 Recreating the Hibernate File (Windows 98 Only) Boot (Restart) Your Computer With the Drivers and Utilities CD . . . . . . . . Delete the Old Hibernate File Create the Hibernate File . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 3 Adding Parts Replacing the Palm Rests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Replacing the Display Cover Using the Advanced Port Replicator APR Controls and Indicators Docking the Computer . Connecting External Devices to the APR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Contents 5 Undocking the Computer Monitor Stand Adding Memory .................... 59 60 61 63 65 ......................... .......................... ...................... ................. Replacing a Hard Drive Returning a Hard Drive to Dell 4 Appendix Specifications ........................... ......................... ...................... 68 74 74 75 75 88 88 88 89 90 90 91 Standard Settings System Setup Pages Contacting Dell .......................... ................ ......... Contact Numbers and Addresses Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Regulatory Information Battery Disposal ...................... ........................ ................ ....... NOM Information (Mexico Only) Información para NOM (únicamente para México) Warranty and Return Policy Information Macrovision Product Notice . ............. ................... Index ................................... 93 6 Conte n ts Safety Instructions Use the following safety guidelines to help protect yourself and your computer. For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in "Sitting Comfortably at Your Computer" in the Tell Me How help file. When Using Your Computer CAUTION: Do not operate your portable computer for an extended period of time with the base resting directly on your body. With extended operation, heat can potentially build up in the base. Allowing sustained contact with the skin could cause discomfort or, eventually, a burn. · · Do not attempt to service the computer yourself. Always follow installation instructions closely. Do not carry a battery in your pocket, purse, or other container where metal objects (such as car keys) could short-circuit the battery terminals. The resulting excessive current flow can cause extremely high temperatures and may result in damage from burns. 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. 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 while it is inside a carrying case. Do not use your computer in a wet environment, for example, near a bath tub, sink, or swimming pool or in a wet basement. 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. Use only the AC adapter and batteries that are approved for use with this computer as indicated in this document. Use of another type of battery or AC adapter may risk fire or explosion. · · · · · Saf et y I n s tr uc t io n s 7 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m · Before you connect the computer to a power source, ensure that the voltage rating of the AC adapter matches that of the available power source: ­ ­ ­ 115 V/60 Hz in most of North and South America and some Far Eastern countries such as South Korea and Taiwan 100 V/50 Hz in eastern Japan and 100 V/60 Hz in western Japan 230 V/50 Hz in most of Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East · To help prevent electric shock, plug the AC adapter and external device power cables into properly grounded power sources. These cables are equipped with 3-prong plugs to help ensure proper grounding. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from a cable. If you must use an extension cable, use a 3-wire cable with properly grounded plugs. If you use an extension cable with your AC adapter, ensure that the total ampere rating of the products plugged in to the extension cable does not exceed the ampere rating of the extension cable. To remove power from the computer, turn it off, remove the battery, and disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet. If your computer includes an integrated or optional (PC Card) modem, disconnect the modem cable during an electrical storm 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. PC Cards may become very warm during normal operation. Use care when removing PC Cards after their continuous operation. Do not dispose of batteries in a fire. They may explode. Check with local authorities for disposal instructions. 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. · · · · · · · · 8 Safe t y Ins tr u ct ions · 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. When removing a memory module from the system board or disconnecting an external device from the computer, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before removing the memory module or disconnecting the device to help avoid possible damage to the system board. Before you clean your computer, turn it off, unplug it from its power source, and remove the battery. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water rather than with liquid or aerosol cleaners. · · · · Saf et y I n s tr uc t io n s 9 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m · 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, see page 42 for instructions. If you drop or damage the computer, see page 43. If, after following these procedures, you confirm that your computer is not operating properly, contact Dell (see page 75). · When Removing or Installing Memory Modules Before you remove or install 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 an external device or removing a memory module to help prevent possible damage to the system board. 1 2 Turn off your computer and all attached devices. Disconnect your computer and external devices from their 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 bay and, if present, the secondary battery from the modular bay. Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface at the back of the computer before touching anything inside your computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface on the computer to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components. 3 4 10 Safe t y Ins tr u ct ions In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate: · When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector, not on the cable itself. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any pins. Also, before you connect a cable, make sure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned. Handle memory modules with care. Don't touch the components on a module. Hold a module by its edges. CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions. · Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch anything inside your computer and periodically while you work inside the computer. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer. You can also take the following steps to prevent static damage: · Do not remove items from their antistatic packing material until you are ready to install them in your computer. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, be sure to discharge static electricity from your body. When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or packaging. · Saf et y I n s tr uc t io n s 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 12 Safe t y Ins tr u ct ions 1 SECTION 1 Setting Up Setting Up DellnetTM Connecting a Printer Turning Off the Computer Using the Modular Bay Setting Up the APR to Connect to a Network w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m HINT: Dellnet is not available in certain regions. Setting Up DellnetTM To set up Dellnet Internet Access Service, double-click the Dellnet Signup icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop and follow the instructions that appear on the screen. Accessing the Internet To access the Internet after completing the Dellnet registration process, double-click the Internet Explorer icon on your Windows desktop. Internet Explorer automatically initiates the Internet connection through Dellnet. Accessing Your E-Mail To access your Dellnet e-mail, double-click the Outlook Express icon on your Windows desktop. Click Send/Receive to download your messages from the mail server. When you download your messages, they are stored on your hard drive until you delete them. Viewing Your Account Information HINT: Dellnet allows you to use case-sensitive passwords. Be sure that is not turned on. If you did not record your Dellnet user name or password, access the Dellnet Administration tool to verify or change this information: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Click the Start button, point to Programs-->Dellnet, and then click Dellnet Administration. Click Next twice. Click Connect to connect to Dellnet. When the Dellnet Self-Administration page appears, click View My Account Information. Click Next. Type your Challenge Phrase answer. Click Next. Your account information appears on the screen. Click Print to print the information or click Main Menu to go to the main menu. 8 14 S e tt i n g U p Sending and Receiving E-Mail · · · · · Double-click the Outlook Express icon to initiate a connection to the Internet through Dellnet. Always check the address of each recipient when sending e-mail. Otherwise, your e-mail is returned to you. Be sure that the person who is sending e-mail to you is typing your e-mail address correctly. Do not send e-mail messages larger than 2 MB. If you are having difficulties sending e-mail, determine whether the problem involves just one recipient or all recipients. Then contact the Dellnet technical support staff (see page 75). Resetting E-Mail Address Settings If your e-mail software gets corrupted, reset your account: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Click the Start button, point to Programs-->Dellnet, and then click Dellnet Administration. Click Next twice. Click Connect to connect to Dellnet. When the Dellnet Self-Administration page appears, click Make My Changes Take Effect. Click Next. Type your Challenge Phrase answer. Click Next. Click Click To Make Changes Take Effect. Click OK. Sett ing Up 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 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. Installing the Printer Driver Dell installs drivers for some new printers. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If your printer is listed in the Printers window, the printer is ready to use. HINT: For complete printer driver installation instructions, refer to your printer documentation. 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 using the instructions that came with the printer. If your printer installation CD does not automatically run, click the Start button on the Windows desktop, click Run, and type x:\setup.exe (where x is the letter of your CD or DVD drive [usually drive D]). Then click OK and follow the prompts on your screen. Parallel Printer 1 Turn off the computer (see page 18). NOTICE: Use only a standard IEEE parallel cable measuring 3 m (10 ft) or less to connect the printer to the computer. Use of a nonstandard cable may prevent the printer from working. 16 S e tt i n g U p 2 Attach the parallel printer cable to the parallel port connector on the computer and tighten the two screws. Attach the cable to the parallel connector on the printer and snap the two clips into the two notches. screws (2) parallel port connector on computer printer cable connector 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 page 16). Sett ing Up 17 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m USB Printer HINT: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on. 1 2 Install the printer driver if necessary (see page 16). Attach the USB printer cable to the USB port connector on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way. USB port connector on computer USB port connector on printer USB printer cable Turning Off the Computer NOTICE: To prevent data loss, you must perform the Windows shutdown procedure to turn off your computer. Windows Millennium Edition (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. 18 S e tt i n g U p Windows 98 1 2 3 Save and close any open files and exit any open programs. Click the Start button and then click Shut Down. In the Shut Down Windows window, click Shut down and then click OK. The computer automatically turns off after the shutdown process finishes. Using the Modular Bay Dell ships your computer with a CD drive (or an optional DVD drive) installed in the modular bay. The modular bay also supports the following devices: · · · · · · · · CD drive CD-RW drive DVD drive Zip drive Floppy drive SuperDisk LS-120 drive Second battery Dell TravelLiteTM module NOTICE: To prevent irreparable damage to the docking connector, do not remove or replace devices while the computer is connected to an advanced port replicator (APR). Swapping Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off 1 2 3 Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer (see page 18). If the computer is connected (docked) to an APR, undock it (see page 59). Close the display and turn the computer over. Sett ing Up 19 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m 4 Slide and hold the latch release, and pull the device out of the modular bay. NOTICE: To prevent damage, place devices in a travel case when they are not inserted in the computer. Store devices in a dry, safe place, and avoid placing heavy objects on top of them. bottom of computer latch release device NOTICE: Insert devices before you dock and turn on the computer. 5 6 Insert the new device into the bay, and push it until you hear a click. Turn on the computer. 20 S e tt i n g U p Swapping Devices While Windows Is Running NOTICE: To prevent irreparable damage to the docking connector, do not replace devices while the computer is connected to an APR. In Microsoft Windows 98 or Windows Me 1 2 3 4 5 6 Right-click the Softex BayManager icon on the Microsoft Windows taskbar. Click Remove/Swap. Keep the display open, and tilt the computer back so that you can access the bottom of the computer. Slide and hold the latch release, and pull the device out of the modular bay. Insert the new device into the bay, and push it until you hear a click. Click OK. Then, click OK again to close the Softex BayManager window. In Microsoft Windows 2000 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Double-click the Unplug or Eject Hardware icon on the Microsoft Windows taskbar. Click the device you want to eject and then click Stop. Click OK and wait until the device you want to eject is cleared from the list of devices in the Unplug or Eject Hardware window. Keep the display open, and tilt the computer back so that you can access the bottom of the computer. Slide and hold the latch release, and pull the device out of the modular bay. Insert the new device into the bay, and push it until you hear a click. When Windows recognizes the new device, click Close. Sett ing Up 21 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Setting Up the APR to Connect to a Network HINT: A network adapter is also referred to as a network interface controller (NIC). NOTICE: Do not install a NIC or a NIC/modem combination PC Card until you complete the advanced port replicator (APR) setup. If you purchased the APR with an integrated network adapter, you must first configure the computer to use the APR with a network. Setting Up the APR for Windows Me and Windows 98 1 2 3 4 5 If the computer is on, shut down the operating system and turn off the computer (see page 18). Disconnect all external devices from the APR. Connect the AC adapter to the APR and an electrical outlet. Insert the computer into the APR. Turn on the computer. The computer automatically detects the network adapter and begins the software installation. 6 7 8 At the Add New Hardware Wizard window, click Automatic search for a better driver (Recommended) and then click Next. Click Finish when Windows displays a message that the driver is installed. Click Yes to restart the computer. After the computer restarts, Windows modifies settings, creates a Dock 1 configuration, and then displays a Setup is complete message. 9 10 11 Click OK. If the Updated display settings message appears, click OK. If necessary, consult your network administrator for instructions on configuring the network adapter settings. 22 S e tt i n g U p Setting Up the APR for Windows 2000 NOTICE: Do not install the drivers from the CD that is shipped with the APR. The network adapter will not work if they are installed. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 If the computer is on, shut down the operating system and turn off the computer (see page 18). Disconnect all external devices from the APR. Insert the computer into the APR. Attach the network cable and the AC adapter to the APR. Turn on the computer. Log on as a user with administrative privileges. Make sure that 3Com PCI Ethernet Adapter (10/100) appears in the Found New Hardware window. Windows 2000 automatically installs the network adapter drivers. Sett ing Up 23 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m 24 S e tt i n g U p 2 SECTION 2 Solving Problems Finding Solutions Accessing Help Files 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 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 Reinstalling Windows Recreating the Hibernate File (Windows 98 Only) w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m 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 page 29. Press the power button to resume from standby mode. See the Tell Me How help file (see page 28) for more information on standby mode. Get technical assistance from Dell. See page 75. See page 30. 26 So lv ing Pr o ble m s See page 30. See page 32. See page 33. See page 34. See page 35. See page 35. See page 36. See page 36. See page 36. See page 39. See page 39. See page 40. See page 41. See page 42. See page 44. S o lv ing Pr o ble m s 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 Accessing Help Files TO A C C E S S T H E Tell Me How H E L P F I L E 1 Click the Start button, point to Dell Documents, and then click Tell Me How. TO A C C E S S WI N D O W S 2000 H E L P 1 Click the Start button and then click Help. 2 Click the Search tab. 3 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and then click List Topics. 4 Click the topic that describes your problem and then click Display. 5 Follow the instructions shown on the screen. TO A C C E S S WI N D O W S ME HE L P 1 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 A C C E S S WI N D O W S 98 S E H E L P 1 Click the Start button and then click Help. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and then click Display. 3 In the Topics Found window, click the topic that describes your problem and then click Display. 4 Follow the instructions shown on the screen. 28 So lv ing Pr o ble m s Power Problems CH 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 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. TEST T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T -- Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. CH E C K T H E A C 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 O M P U T E R D I R E C T L Y T O A N E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T -- 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. AD J U S T T H E POW E R P R O P E R T I E S -- See the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. To access help files, see page 28. RESE A T T H E M E M O R Y M O D U L E S -- If your computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, you may need to reseat the memory modules (see page 61). HINT: See the Tell Me How help file for information on standby mode. S o lv ing Pr o ble m s 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 Start-Up Error Messages OP E R A T I N G S Y S T E M N O T F O U N D -- Call Dell for technical assistance (see page 75). 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 -SY 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 CH 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 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. TEST T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T -- Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. CH E C K T H E A C 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. AD J U S T T H E POW E R PRO P E R T I E S -- Search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. To access help files, see page 28. 30 So lv ing Pr o ble m s 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 page 28) for instructions on adjusting the brightness. MOV 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 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor. ELI 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 D I R E C T I O N -- Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality. RESTO R E T H E R E C O M M E N D E D S E T T I N G S -- Restore the original resolution and refresh rate settings. See the Tell Me How help file for instructions. To access help files, see page 28. AD J U S T T H E WI N D O W S D I S P L A Y S E T T I N G S 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. S o lv ing Pr o ble m s 31 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Sound and Speaker Problems Integrated Speakers 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 -- Double-click the yellow speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. CH 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. REI N S T A L L T H E S O U N D ( A U D I O ) D R I V E R -- See page 44. 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. VER 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 I O N S -- Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. TEST T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T -- Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. EN S U R E T H A T T H E S P E A K E R S A R E T U R N E D O N -- See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. AD 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. 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 -- Double-click the yellow speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. TEST 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. 32 So lv ing Pr o ble m s R U N T H E S P E A K E R S E L F -TE S T -- Some speaker systems have a self-test button on the subwoofer. See the speaker documentation for self-test instructions. MOV 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 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor. ELI 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. REI N S T A L L T H E S O U N D ( A U D I O ) D R I V E R -- See page 44. Printer Problems If you cannot print to a parallel port printer VER 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 page 16. TEST T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T -- Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. EN S U R E T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S T U R N E D O N -- See the documentation supplied with the printer. VER I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y WI N D O W S 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon, click Properties, and then select the Details tab. 2 Ensure that the Print to the following port: setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). REI N S T A L L T H E P R I N T E R D R I V E R -- See page 16. S o lv ing Pr o ble m s 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 If you cannot print to a USB printer VER 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 page 18. TEST T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T -- Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. EN S U R E T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S T U R N E D O N -- See the documentation supplied with the printer. VER I F Y T H A T T H E P R I N T E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y WI N D O W S -- 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon, click Properties, and then select the Details tab. 2 Ensure that the Print to the following port: setting is USB. REI N S T A L L T H E P R I N T E R D R I V E R -- See page 16. Modem Problems NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only. Connecting the modem to a digital telephone network damages the modem. CH 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. CO 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. 34 So lv ing Pr o ble m s CH 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. CH 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. R U N T H E M O D E M D I A G N O S T I C S -- Click the Start button, point to Programs--> 3Com NIC Utilities, and then click 3Com NIC Doctor. Scanner Problems CH 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. CH 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. REI N S T A L L T H E S C A N N E R D R I V E R -- See the scanner documentation for instructions. Touch Pad Problems CH E C K T H E T O U C H P A D S E T T I N G S -- Click the Start button, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then double-click the Mouse icon. Try adjusting the settings. S o lv ing Pr o ble m s 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 External Keyboard Problems DI S C O N N E C T T H E K E Y B O A R D C A B L E -- Shut down the computer (see page 18). Disconnect the keyboard cable and check the cable connector for bent or broken pins. Unexpected Characters DIS A B L E T H E N U M E R I C K E Y P A D -- Press the key to disable the numeric keypad. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit. Drive Problems If you cannot save a file to a floppy disk HINT: For information on saving files to a floppy disk, see the Tell Me How help file (see page 28). EN S U R E T H A T WI N D O W S R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E -- Double-click the My Computer icon. If the floppy drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive. CA N N O T S A V E F I L E S T O A F L O P P Y D I S K -- Ensure that the floppy disk is not full or write-protected (locked). See the following illustration. TEST T H E D R I V E W I T H A N O T H E R F L O P P Y D I S K -- Insert another floppy disk to eliminate the possibility that the original floppy disk is defective. 36 So lv ing Pr o ble m s back of floppy disk write-protected not writeprotected If you cannot play a music CD or install a program from a CD EN S U R E T H A T WI N D O W S R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E -- Double-click the My Computer icon. If the CD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive. TEST T H E D R I V E W I T H A N O T H E R CD-- Insert another CD to eliminate the possibility that the original CD is defective. CLE A N T H E D I S C -- See the Tell Me How help file for instructions. To access help files, see page 28. 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 -- Double-click the yellow speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted. HINT: High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. This does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD. S o lv ing Pr o ble m s 37 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m If you cannot play a DVD movie HINT: Because of different worldwide file types, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives. EN S U R E T H A T WI N D O W S R E C O G N I Z E S T H E D R I V E -- Double-click the My Computer icon. If the DVD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive. TEST T H E D R I V E W I T H A N O T H E R DVD -- Insert another DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original DVD is defective. CL E A N T H E D I S C -- See the Tell Me How help file for instructions. To access, help files, see page 28. If the CD-RW drive stops writing HINT: If you must disable standby mode to write to a CD-RW drive, remember to enable standby mode again when you finish writing the CD. DIS A B L E S T A N D B Y M O D E I N WI N D O W S B E F O R E W R I T I N G T O A CD RW D I S K -- Search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. To access help files, see page 28. CH A N G E T H E W R I T E S P E E D T O A S L O W E R R A T E -- The CD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Closing all programs before writing to the CD-RW may also alleviate the problem. If you have a hard drive problem CH E C K T H E H A R D D R I V E F O R E R R O R S Windows 98 SE and Windows Me: Click the Start button, point to Programs--> Accessories--> System Tools, and then click ScanDisk. Windows 2000: 1 Double-click the My Computer icon. 2 Right-click the Local Disk icon and then click Properties. 3 Click the Tools tab. 4 Click Check Now. 38 So lv ing Pr o ble m s Network Problems CH E C K T H E N E T W O R K C A B L E C O N N E C T O R -- Ensure that the network cable connector is firmly connected to the connector on the computer and the network wall jack. CH E C K T H E N E T W O R K L I G H T S O N T H E N E T W O R K C O N N E C T O R -- Green indicates that the network connection is active. If the status light is not green, try replacing the network cable. Amber indicates that the network card driver is loaded and the card is detecting activity. RESTA R T T H E C O M P U T E R -- Try to log on to the network again. CO N T A C T Y O U R N E T W O R K A D M I N I S T R A T O R -- Verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning. Windows Error Messages X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. the drive and try again. T H E D E V I C E I S N O T R E A D Y -- Insert a disk into A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING C H A R A C T E R S : \ / : * ? " < > |-- Do not use these characters in filenames. S o lv ing Pr o ble m s 39 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m NOT ENOUGH MEMOR Y OR RESOURCES. CLOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND T R Y A G A I N -- You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. TH E F I L E B E I N G C O P I E D I S T O O L A R G E F O R T H E D E S T I N A T I O N D R I V E -- The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk, or the disk is too full. Try copying the file to a different disk or use a larger capacity disk. A R E Q U I R E D .D LL F I L E W A S N O T F O U N D -- The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program: Window 98 SE and Windows Me: 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2 Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon. 3 Select the program that you want to remove. 4 Click Add/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen. 5 See the program documentation for installation instructions. Windows 2000: 1 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2 Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon. 3 Select the program that you want to remove. 4 Click Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen. 5 See the program documentation for installation instructions. General Program Problems A program crashes SE E T H E S O F T W A R E D O C U M E N T A T I O N -- Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you to solve the problem. A program stops responding PR E S S < ALT> < DE L >-- In the Close Program window, select the program that is no longer responding. Then click End Task. 40 So lv ing Pr o ble m s A solid blue screen appears TU R N T H E C O M P U T E R O F F -- If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper shutdown (see page 18), press the power button until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer. The solid blue screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows shutdown. ScanDisk will automatically run during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen. Internet Connection Problems If you have a problem with your Dellnet account REVI E W " SET T I N G UP D E L L N E T " -- See page 14. REVI E W " MOD E M P R O B L E M S " -- See page 34. TU R 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, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2 Double-click the Modems icon. 3 In the Modems Properties window, click Dialing Properties. 4 Ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and then select the proper code according to the information in your telephone directory. 5 Click Apply and then click OK. 6 Close the Modems Properties window. 7 Close the Control Panel window. S o lv ing Pr o ble m s 41 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m E-Mail Problems REV I E W "S E N D I N G A N D RE C E I V I N G E- M A I L "-- See page 15. EN 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 IN T E R N E T -- With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a check next to it, click the check to remove it and connect to the Internet. If Your Computer Gets Wet CAUTION: Perform this procedure only after you are certain that it is safe to do so. If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, Dell recommends that you turn off AC power at the circuit breaker before attempting to remove the power cables from the electrical outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing wet cables from a live power source. 1 Turn off the computer (see page 18), disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, and disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet. Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from the computer. Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer. Remove the modular bay device (see page 19) and any installed PC Cards, and put them in a safe place to dry. Remove the battery. Wipe off the battery and put it in a safe place to dry. Remove the hard drive (see page 63). Remove the memory modules (see page 61). Open the display, and place the computer right-side up across two books or similar props to let air circulate all around it. Let the computer dry for at least 24 hours in a dry area at room temperature. NOTICE: Do not use artificial means, such as a hair dryer or a fan, to speed up the drying process. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 42 So lv ing Pr o ble m s CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is thoroughly dry before continuing with the remainder of this procedure. 10 11 12 13 14 15 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer. Replace the memory modules, the memory module cover, and screw (see page 61). Replace the hard drive and screw (see page 63). Replace the modular bay device (see page 19) and any PC Cards you removed. Replace the battery. Turn on the computer and verify that it is working properly. If the computer does not turn on, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 75). If You Drop or Damage Your Computer 1 2 3 4 5 Save and close any open files, exit any open application programs, and shut down the computer (see page 18). Disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, and disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet. Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from the computer. Remove and reinstall the battery. Turn on the computer. If the computer does not turn on, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 75). S o lv ing Pr o ble m s 43 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Resolving Other Technical Problems GO T O T H E D E L L S U P P O R T W E B S I T E -- Go to http://support.dell.com for help with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions. E- M A I L D E L L -- Go to http://support.dell.com and then click E-Mail Dell in the Communicate list. Send an e-mail message to Dell about your problem; you can expect to receive an e-mail message from Dell within hours. CA L L D E L L -- If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell support website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 75). Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities NOTICE: The Dell support website, http://support.dell.com, and the Drivers and Utilities CD provide approved drivers for DellTM computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly. 1 2 3 4 5 HINT: You may need to open more folders to find the setup.exe file. For example, to install the Windows 98 touch pad driver, double-click win98, double-click touchpad, double-click english, and then doubleclick setup.exe. 6 Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD into the CD or DVD drive. Double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop. Double-click the icon for your CD or DVD drive. Double-click the folder for your operating system. Double-click the appropriate language folder for the driver you want to install. Double-click the setup.exe file and follow the prompts. For detailed information on installing specific drivers and utilities for your computer, see Dell's support website at http://support.dell.com. 44 So lv ing Pr o ble m s Reinstalling Windows Reinstalling Windows Me and Windows 98 NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling your Windows Me or Windows 98 Second Edition (SE) operating system. The options can potentially overwrite files installed by Dell and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, Dell does not recommend that you reinstall your operating system unless instructed to do so by a Dell technical support representative. NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows Me or Windows 98, you must disable any virus protection software installed on your system before you reinstall Windows. 1 2 Turn on the computer, and enter the system setup program as directed by a Dell technical support representative. In the system setup program Boot menu, change the boot sequence so that the CD or DVD drive boots first as directed by a Dell technical support representative. Then place the Operating System CD in the CD or DVD drive and close the drive tray. Exit the system setup program. At the Welcome window, click OK. Double-click Refresh Windows OS. Click OK. Click OK again. Remove the Operating System CD from the CD or DVD drive, and click OK to restart your computer. The Getting ready to run Windows for the first time window appears. If the mouse tutorial starts, press to exit and then press . Click the regional setting closest to where you live, and then click Next. Click the graphic that matches your keyboard layout, and then click Next. 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 S o lv ing Pr o ble m s