User manual DELL INSPIRON 700M

DellTM InspironTM 700m Owner's Manual Model PP07S w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Notes, Notices, and Cautions NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer. NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death. Abbreviations and Acronyms For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9. If you purchased a DellTM n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft® Windows® operating systems are not applicable. ____________________ Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2004­2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dell TravelLite, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, TrueMobile, DellNet, PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, PowerVault, and Axim are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, and Outlook are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Inc. under license. Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own. Model PP07S April 2005 P/N G7472 Rev. A02 w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Contents Finding Information ............................ 9 1 A Tour of Your Computer Front View. ................................ .............................. .............................. 13 16 18 20 Left Side View . Right Side View Bottom View. ............................... 2 Setting Up Your Computer Connecting to the Internet ......................... .................. 21 21 22 22 22 23 23 24 24 Setting Up Your Internet Connection Setting Up a Printer ............................ ....................... ....................... Printer Cable . . . . . . Connecting a USB Printer Power Protection Devices ......................... .................... .................... .................... Surge Protectors . . . . . . . Line Conditioners . . . . . . . Uninterruptible Power Supplies 3 Using a Battery Battery Performance . ........................... ....................... ................... ................... 25 26 26 26 26 27 Checking the Battery Charge . Microsoft Windows Power Meter Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . Charging the Battery . Removing a Battery ........................... ............................ Contents 3 Installing a Battery Storing a Battery. ............................ 27 27 ............................. 4 Installing Module Bay Devices About the Module Bay ........................... ..... 29 29 30 Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running ...... 5 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia Using CDs and DVDs . ........................... .......................... ................... ................... ................... ............. 31 31 31 32 32 33 33 34 Copying CDs and DVDs. How to Copy a CD or DVD . . . . Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs . Helpful Tips . . . . . . . . . . . Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device S-Video Connection . . . . . . . . . Enabling the Display Settings for a TV ................. ................. 6 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Numeric Keypad . Key Combinations ............................. ............................. .............. .............. .............. .............. .............. .............. 35 36 36 36 36 36 36 37 37 38 System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . Display Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . Radios (Including Wireless Networking) . . Power Management. . . . . . . . . . . . Speaker Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions Touch Pad . ................................ ...................... Customizing the Touch Pad 4 Contents 7 Using PC Cards PC Card Types ............................... .............................. ............................ ....................... 39 39 39 39 41 PC Card Blanks Extended PC Cards. Removing a PC Card or Blank Installing a PC Card ............................ 8 Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to a Network Adapter Network Setup Wizard . ..................... 43 44 44 44 45 .......................... ............... .... .... Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network Determining Your Network Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP. 9 Solving Problems Dell Diagnostics . ............................. ................... ................... 47 47 47 49 49 49 50 51 51 51 52 54 55 55 56 56 When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Starting the Dell Diagnostics. . . Drivers .................................. .................... .................... .................... ............ What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . Identifying Drivers. . . . . . . Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Restoring Your Operating System . ..................... ............. ............. Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec . . . . . Drive Problems .............................. .... .... .... .... CD and DVD drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, DVD, or DVD+RW drive tray . If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound . . . . . . Hard drive problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Contents 5 E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Error Messages ................... 56 58 59 59 60 60 60 61 61 61 61 61 62 62 63 63 64 64 65 65 66 67 67 67 68 68 69 69 69 70 .............................. ........................ IEEE 1394 Device Problems. Keyboard Problems ............................ ..................... ..................... External Keyboard Problems . Unexpected Characters . . . Lockups and Software Problems ...................... .... .... .... .... .... .... .... The computer does not start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The computer stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A program stops responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A program crashes repeatedly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system. A solid blue screen appears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memory Problems ............................. ............................ Network Problems. PC Card Problems Power Problems . ............................. ............................. ............. Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your Computer . Printer Problems. ............................. ............................ ....................... .................. .................. .................. Scanner Problems . Sound and Speaker Problems No sound from integrated speakers No sound from external speakers . No sound from headphones . . . . Touch Pad or Mouse Problems Video and Display Problems ....................... ........................ ................. ................. ................. If the display is blank . . . . . . . . If the display is difficult to read. . . . If only part of the display is readable . 6 Contents 10 Adding and Replacing Parts Before You Begin ............................. ................. ................. ................. 71 71 71 72 73 75 76 Recommended Tools . . . . . . . . Turning Off Your Computer . . . . . . Before Working Inside Your Computer Memory . Modem ................................. .................................. ............................... Mini PCI Card 11 Appendix Specifications . .............................. ..................... .................. .................. .................. .................. ................. ......... ......... 81 86 86 87 87 87 88 89 89 89 107 107 107 107 108 Using the System Setup Program . Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . Viewing the System Setup Screens. System Setup Screens. . . . . . . Commonly Used Options. . . . . . Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) . Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals . Contacting Dell .............................. ....................... Macrovision Product Notice FCC Notices (U.S. Only) ......................... .................... .................... .................... Class A . . . . . . . . . . . Class B . . . . . . . . . . . FCC Identification Information Index ................................... 109 Contents 7 8 Contents Finding Information NOTE: Some features may not be available for your computer or in certain countries. NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer. What Are You Looking For? · · · · · · Warranty information Terms and Conditions (U.S. only) Safety instructions Regulatory information Ergonomics information End User License Agreement Find It Here DellTM Product Information Guide · How to set up my computer Setup Diagram · · · · · Tips on using Microsoft® Windows® How to play CDs and DVDs How to use standby mode and hibernate mode How to change my display resolution How to clean my computer Help File 1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Click User and system guides and click User's guides. 3 Click Dell Inspiron Help. Finding Information 9 www.dell.com | support.dell.com What Are You Looking For? · Service Tag and Express Service Code · Microsoft Windows License Label Find It Here Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License These labels are located on the bottom of your computer. · Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use support.dell.com or contact technical support. · Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting technical support. 10 Finding Information What Are You Looking For? · Solutions -- Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, online courses, frequently asked questions · Community -- Online discussion with other Dell customers · Upgrades -- Upgrade information for components, such as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system · Customer Care -- Contact information, service call and order status, warranty, and repair information · Service and support -- Service call status and support history, service contract, online discussions with technical support · Reference -- Computer documentation, details on my computer configuration, product specifications, and white papers · Downloads -- Certified drivers, patches, and software updates · Notebook System Software (NSS)-- If you reinstall the operating system for your computer, you should also reinstall the NSS utility. NSS provides critical updates for your operating system and support for DellTM 3.5-inch USB floppy drives, Intel® Pentium® M processors, optical drives, and USB devices. NSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer. The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration. To download Notebook System Software: 1 Go to support.dell.com and click Downloads. 2 Enter your Service Tag or product model. 3 In the Download Category drop-down menu, click All. 4 Select the operating system and operating system Find It Here Dell Support Website -- support.dell.com NOTE: Select your region to view the appropriate support site. NOTE: Corporate, government, and education customers can also use the customized Dell Premier Support website at premier.support.dell.com. The website may not be available in all regions. language for your computer, and click Submit. 5 Under Select a Device, scroll to System and Configuration Utilities, and click Dell Notebook System Software. Finding Information 11 www.dell.com | support.dell.com What Are You Looking For? · How to use Windows XP · Documentation for my computer · Documentation for devices (such as a modem) Find It Here Windows Help and Support Center 1 Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2 Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow icon. 3 Click the topic that describes your problem. 4 Follow the instructions on the screen. 12 Finding Information A Tour of Your Computer Front View display latch release display device and keyboard status lights keyboard touch pad touch pad buttons speakers (2) power button IEEE 1394 connector microphone connector headphone connector DISPLAY LATCH RELEASE DISPLAY -- Slide this display latch to release and open the display. -- For more information about your display, see "Using the Display" in the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9. S P E A K E R S -- To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers press the volume control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" on page 35. POWER BUTTON -- Press the power button to turn on the computer or to enter or exit a power management mode. NOTICE: To avoid losing data, shut down your computer instead of pressing the power button. A Tour of Your Computer 13 www.dell.com | support.dell.com AUDIO CONNECTORS -- Connect headphones and microphone. Attach headphones or speakers to the Attach a microphone to the connector. connector. IEEE 1394 C O N N E C T O R -- Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras. TOUCH PAD KEYBOARD -- Touch pad and touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse. See "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" on page 35 for more information. -- The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft® Windows® logo key. For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad" on page 35. 14 A Tour of Your Computer DEVICE AND KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS Turns on when wireless networking is enabled. To enable or disable wireless networking, press . Turns on when you turn on the computer. Turns on steadily or blinks when the computer is in a power management mode. Indicates battery charge status. If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the as follows: ­ Solid green: The battery is charging. light operates If the computer is running on a battery, the light operates as follows: ­ Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off). ­ Flashing green: The battery charge is low. Turns on when the computer reads or writes data. NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is flashing. 9 A Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled. Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled. Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled. NOTE: Device status lights are also visible when the display is closed. A Tour of Your Computer 15 www.dell.com | support.dell.com Left Side View security cable slot exhaust vent SECURITY CABLE SLOT video connector USB connectors (2) PC Card slot Secure Digital memory card slot -- Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device. NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot. EXHAUST VENT -- The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fans or the computer. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. 16 A Tour of Your Computer VIDEO CONNECTOR Connects an external monitor. For more information, see "Using the Display" in the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9. USB 2.0 CONNECTOR Connects USB 2.0 compliant devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. P C C A R D S L O T -- Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. For more information, see "Using PC Cards" on page 39. SECURE DIGITAL MEMORY CARD SLOT The Secure Digital memory card slot supports one Secure Digital memory card. Use Secure Digital memory cards to save or back up data. A Tour of Your Computer 17 www.dell.com | support.dell.com Right Side View S-video tv-out connector module bay modem connector network connector AC adapter connector MODULE BAY -- You can install devices such as an optical drive or Dell TravelLiteTM module in the module bay. For more information, see "Installing Module Bay Devices" on page 29. (RJ-11) Connects the telephone line to the modem connector. For information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer. MODEM CONNECTOR NETWORK CONNECTOR (RJ-45) NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the computer, do not plug a telephone line in to the network connector. Connects the computer to a network. The green and yellow lights next to the connector indicate activity for both wired and wireless network communications. For information on using the network adapter, see the online network-adapter documentation supplied with your computer. A C A D A P T E R C O N N E C T O R -- Connects the AC adapter so that you can run the computer on AC power instead of battery power. 18 A Tour of Your Computer The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either on or off. CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to the power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage. NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the connector, not the cable itself, and pull firmly but gently to avoid damaging the cable. NOTICE: Ensure that the AC adapter cable is not in the path of chairs or other objects that could crush it. S -V I D E O T V - O U T C O N N E C T O R Connects your computer to a TV. For more information, see "Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device" on page 33. A Tour of Your Computer 19 www.dell.com | support.dell.com Bottom View Mini PCI card and modem cover memory module cover module bay air vent module bay latch release battery* battery latch release *optional 8-cell battery is shown hard drive cover MODULE BAY -- You can install devices such as an optical drive in the module bay. For more information, see "Installing Module Bay Devices" on page 29. -- Releases a device. See "Installing Module Bay Devices" on page 29 for instructions. MODULE BAY LATCH RELEASE HARD DRIVE -- Stores software and data. -- Releases a device. See "Using a Battery" on page 25 for instructions. BATTERY LATCH RELEASE B A T T E R Y / B A T T E R Y B A Y -- When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. See "Using a Battery" on page 25. AIR VENT -- The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. MEMORY MODULE COVER -- Covers the compartment that contains the memory module. See "Memory" on page 73. M I N I P C I C A R D A N D M O D E M C O V E R -- Covers the compartment that contains the Mini PCI card and modem. See "Mini PCI Card" on page 76 and "Modem" on page 75. 20 A Tour of Your Computer Setting Up Your Computer Connecting to the Internet NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP), such as AOL or MSN. Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options: · · Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a telephone line. Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable modem connections. DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your existing telephone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the Internet and use your telephone on the same line simultaneously. Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access through your local cable TV line. · If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone line to the modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable modem connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions. Setting Up Your Internet Connection To set up an AOL or MSN connection: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. 3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. 2 Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer. The New Connection Wizard appears. 3 Click Connect to the Internet. Setting Up Your Computer 21 www.dell.com | support.dell.com 4 In the next window, click the appropriate option: · · · If you do not have an ISP and want to select one, click Choose from a list of Internet service providers (ISPs). If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but you did not receive a setup CD, click Set up my connection manually. If you have a CD, click Use the CD I got from an ISP. 5 Click Next. If you selected Set up my connection manually, continue to step 6. Otherwise, follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, contact your ISP. 6 Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then click Next. 7 Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems" on page 56. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later. Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer. See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to: · · · · Obtain and install updated drivers. Connect the printer to the computer. Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge. Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance. Printer Cable Your printer may not come with a printer cable, so if you purchase a cable separately, ensure that it is compatible with your printer. If you purchased a printer cable at the same time you purchased your computer, the cable may arrive in the computer box. Connecting a USB Printer NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on. 1 Complete the operating system setup if you have not already done so. 2 Install the printer driver if necessary. See the documentation that came with your printer. 22 Setting Up Your Computer 3 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors fit only one way. USB connector on computer USB printer cable USB connector on printer Power Protection Devices Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures: · · · Surge protectors Line conditioners Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) Surge Protectors Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help to prevent damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or following power interruptions. The level of protection is usually commensurate with the cost of the surge protector. Some surge protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain types of damage. Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge protector. A device with a higher joule rating offers more protection. Compare joule ratings to determine the relative effectiveness of different devices. NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or power interruptions caused by nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in your area, disconnect the telephone line from the telephone wall jack and disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet. 23 Setting Up Your Computer www.dell.com | support.dell.com Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem protection. See the surge protector documentation for modem connection instructions. NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the network cable from the network wall jack during electrical storms. Line Conditioners NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions. Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level. Uninterruptible Power Supplies NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage. NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection. A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices contain a battery that provides temporary power to connected devices when AC power is interrupted. The battery charges while AC power is available. See the UPS manufacturer documentation for information on battery operating time and to ensure that the device is approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). 24 Setting Up Your Computer Using a Battery Battery Performance CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your DellTM portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. Use a battery to run the computer when it is not connected to an electrical outlet. One battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay. NOTE: Battery capacity (the time it can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on how often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer. Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following: · · · · Using DVD, DVD-R, and CD-RW drives Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, or USB devices Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as 3D games Running the computer in maximum performance mode (see "Power Management" in the Dell Inspiron Help file.) NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD. You can set power management options to alert you when the battery charge is low. CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The lithium-ion battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer. CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or environmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage. Using a Battery 25 www.dell.com | support.dell.com Checking the Battery Charge The Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter window and provide information on the battery charge. icon and the low-battery warning Microsoft Windows Power Meter The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar. For more information about the Power Meter tab, see "Power Management" in the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9. If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears. Low-Battery Warning NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery warning. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically. A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. For more information about low-battery alarms, see "Power Management" in the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9. Charging the Battery When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the computer checks the battery charge and temperature. If necessary, the AC adapter then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge. If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot environment, the battery may not charge when you connect the computer to an electrical outlet. For more information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 64. 26 Using a Battery Removing a Battery CAUTION: Before performing these procedures, disconnect the modem from the telephone wall jack. 1 Ensure that the computer is turned off, set to the hibernate power management mode, or connected to an electrical outlet. 2 Slide and hold the battery-bay latch release on the bottom of the computer, and then remove the battery from the bay. shown with optional 8-cell battery Installing a Battery CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased from Dell. The lithium-ion battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer. Slide the battery into the bay until the latch release clicks. Storing a Battery Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully before you use it. Using a Battery 27 www.dell.com | support.dell.com 28 Using a Battery Installing Module Bay Devices About the Module Bay CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. You can install devices such as a DVD drive, CD-RW/DVD drive, or DVD+RW in the module bay. Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, store them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them. 1 Slide and hold the device latch release. 2 Pull the device out of the module bay. 3 Push the new device into the bay until it clicks. Installing Module Bay Devices 29 www.dell.com | support.dell.com Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running 1 Before ejecting the device, double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar, click the device you want to eject, and click Stop. NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, store them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them. 2 Slide and hold the device latch release. 3 Pull the device out of the module bay. 4 Push the new device into the bay until it clicks. The operating system automatically recognizes the device. 30 Installing Module Bay Devices Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia Using CDs and DVDs For information about using CDs and DVDs in your computer, see the DellTM InspironTM Help file. To access the help file, see "Finding Information" on page 9. Copying CDs and DVDs NOTE: Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs or DVDs. This section applies only to computers that have a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD+R, or DVD/CD-RW combo drive. The following instructions show how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD. You can also use Sonic RecordNow for other purposes, including creating CDs from audio files on your computer and creating MP3 CDs. For instructions, see the Sonic RecordNow documentation that came with your computer. Open Sonic RecordNow, click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window, and then click RecordNow Help or RecordNow Tutorial. How to Copy a CD or DVD NOTE: If you have a DVD/CD-RW combo drive and you experience recording problems, check for available software patches at the Sonic support website at support.sonic.com. Currently, five DVD-writable disc formats are available: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM. The DVD-writable drives installed in DellTM computers can write to DVD+R and DVD+RW media, and can read DVD-R and DVD-RW media. However, DVD-writable drives do not write to and might not read DVD-RAM media. In addition, commercially available DVD players for home theater systems might not read all five formats. NOTE: Most commercial DVDs have copyright protection and cannot be copied using Sonic RecordNow. 1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Sonic RecordNow!, and then click RecordNow! 2 Click either the audio tab or the data tab, depending on the kind of CD or DVD you want to copy. Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 31 www.dell.com | support.dell.com 3 Click Exact Copy. 4 To copy the CD or DVD: · If you have one CD or DVD drive, ensure that the settings are correct and click Copy. The computer reads your source CD or DVD and copies it to a temporary folder on your computer hard drive. When prompted, insert a blank CD or DVD into the CD or DVD drive and click OK. · If you have two CD or DVD drives, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or DVD and click Copy. The computer copies the data on the CD or DVD to the blank CD or DVD. Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created automatically ejects. Using Blank CD-Rs and CD-RWs Your CD-RW drive can write to two different types of recording media--CD-Rs and CD-RWs (including high-speed CD-RWs). Use blank CD-Rs to record music or permanently store data files. After creating a CD-R, you cannot write to that CD-R again without changing your method of recording (see the Sonic documentation for more information). Use blank CD-RWs to write to CDs or to erase, rewrite, or update data on CDs. Your DVD-writable drive can write to four different types of recording media--CD-Rs, CD-RWs (including high-speed CD-RWs), DVD+Rs, and DVD+RWs. Blank DVD+Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of information. After you create a DVD+R disc, you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is "finalized" or "closed" during the final stage of the disc creation process. Use blank DVD+RWs if you plan to erase, rewrite, or update information on that disc later. Helpful Tips · · · · · Use Microsoft® Windows® Explorer to drag and drop files to a CD-R or CD-RW only after you start Sonic RecordNow and open a RecordNow project. You must use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos. You cannot create audio DVDs with Sonic RecordNow. Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed. Do not burn a blank CD-R or CD-RW to its maximum capacity; for example, do not copy a 650-MB file to a 650-MB blank CD. The CD-RW drive needs 1 or 2 MB of the blank CD to finalize the recording. Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again. You can also use blank CD-RWs to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD-R. See the Sonic support website at support.sonic.com for additional information. · · 32 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio device are not included with your computer. Cables may be purchased at most consumer electronics stores. You can use a commercially available S-video cable to connect your computer to the S-video input on your TV. The audio connector on the front of the computer enables you to connect the computer to your TV or audio device, using a commercially available audio cable. NOTE: See the diagrams at the beginning of each subsection to help you determine which method of connection you should use. When you finish connecting the video and audio cables between your computer and your TV, you must enable your computer to work with the TV. See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 34 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. S-Video Connection S-video cable audio cable 1 Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2 Plug one end of the S-video cable in to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer. 3 Plug the other end of the S-video cable in to the S-video input connector on your TV. 4 Plug the single-connector end of the audio cable in to the headphone connector on your computer. Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia 33 www.dell.com | support.dell.com 5 Plug the two RCA connectors on the other end of the audio cable in to the audio input connectors on your TV or other audio device. 6 Turn on the TV, turn on any audio device that you connected (if applicable), and then turn on the computer. 7 See "Enabling the Display Settings for a TV" on page 34 to ensure that the computer recognizes and works properly with the TV. Enabling the Display Settings for a TV Integrated Video Controller NOTE: Ensure that you properly connect the TV before you enable the display settings. 1 Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2 Click Appearances and Themes. 3 Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Display. 4 Click the Settings tab and click Advanced. 5 Click the Intel (R) Extreme Graphics tab. 6 Click Graphic Properties. 7 If you want to use only a TV without using the computer display or any other display options: a b In the new window, click TV so that a red check mark appears directly on top of the TV icon. Ensure that the settings are correct. In the new window, click Intel (R) Dual Display Clone and ensure that one of the devices listed is a TV. Click Device Settings. In the new window, ensure that the display resolution settings are correct. 8 If you want to use a TV and the computer display at the same time: a b c 9 Click Apply to view the new settings. 10 Click OK to confirm the settings change. 11 Click Yes to keep the new settings. 12 Click OK. 34 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Numeric Keypad numeric keypad The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, press the desired key after enabling the keypad. · · To enable the keypad, press . The active. To disable the keypad, press again. 9 light indicates that the keypad is Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 35 www.dell.com | support.dell.com Key Combinations System Functions Opens the Task Manager window. Enables and disables the numeric keypad. Enables and disables the scroll lock. Display Functions Switches the video image to the next display option. The options include the integrated display, an external monitor, and both displays simultaneously. Increases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). and up-arrow key and down-arrow key Decreases brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor). Radios (Including Wireless Networking) Enables and disables radios including wireless networking. Power Management Activates a power management mode. You can reprogram this keyboard shortcut to activate a different power management mode using the Advanced tab in the Power Options Properties window. See "Power Management" in the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access help, see "Finding Information" on page 9. Speaker Functions Enables and disables the integrated speakers and external speakers (mute function), if attached. Decreases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attached. Increases the volume of the integrated speakers and external speakers, if attached. 36 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions Windows logo key and Windows logo key and Windows logo key and Windows logo key and Windows logo key and Windows logo key and Minimizes all open windows. Maximizes all windows. Runs Windows Explorer. Opens the Run dialog box. Opens the Search Results dialog box. Opens the Search Results-Computer dialog box (if the computer is connected to a network). Windows logo key and Opens the System Properties dialog box. To adjust keyboard operation, such as the character repeat rate, open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and click Keyboard. Touch Pad The touch pad detects the pressure and movement of your finger to allow you to move the cursor on the display. Use the touch pad and touch pad buttons as you would use a mouse. · · To move the cursor, lightly slide your finger over the touch pad. To select an object, lightly tap once on the surface of the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch-pad button. Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad 37 www.dell.com | support.dell.com · To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object and tap down-up-down on the touch pad. On the second down motion, leave your finger on the touch pad and move the selected object by sliding your finger over the surface. To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and tap twice on the touch pad or use your thumb to press the left touch-pad button twice. · Customizing the Touch Pad You can use the Mouse Properties window to disable the touch pad or adjust its settings. 1 Open the Control Panel, click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click Mouse. 2 In the Mouse Properties window: · · Click the Device Select tab to disable the touch pad. Click the Pointer tab to adjust touch pad settings. 3 Click OK to save the settings and close the window.