User manual DELL INSPIRON 9100

DellTM InspironTM 9100 Owner's Manual Model PP09L www.dell.com | support.dell.com 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 DellTM InspironTM Help file. To access the help file, see page 16. 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. © 2004 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, TrueMobile, Dell TravelLite, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault, PowerConnect, PowerApp, DellNet, Axim, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG and is used by Dell Inc. under license; EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation. Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own. Model PP09L May 2004 P/N G2806 Rev. A02 Contents CAUTION: Safety Instructions ....................... ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... 9 9 10 10 11 11 11 12 12 13 13 15 SAFETY: General . . . . . SAFETY: Power . . . . . . SAFETY: Battery. . . . . . SAFETY: Air Travel. . . . . SAFETY: EMC Instructions . When Using Your Computer ........................ .......... .......... .......... .......... SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits . . . . . . . SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer . . . SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge SAFETY: Battery Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . Finding Information ............................ 1 A Tour of Your Computer Front View. ................................ .............................. .............................. 19 23 25 25 29 Left Side View . Right Side View Back View ................................ ............................... Bottom View. 2 Setting Up Your Computer Connecting to the Internet ......................... .................. ................ 31 31 32 33 34 34 Setting Up Your Internet Connection Transferring Information to a New Computer Setting Up a Printer ............................ ....................... ....................... Printer Cable . . . . . . Connecting a USB Printer Contents 3 Power Protection Devices ......................... .................... .................... .................... 34 35 35 35 35 Surge Protectors . . . . . . . Line Conditioners . . . . . . . Uninterruptible Power Supplies Turning Off Your Computer ......................... 3 Optimizing Performance DDR Memory and Processor Front-Side Bus Hyper-Threading. ................ 37 37 ............................. 4 Using a Battery Battery Performance . ........................... ....................... ................. ................. ................. ................. 39 40 40 40 41 41 41 42 43 43 Checking the Battery Charge . DellTM QuickSet Battery Meter . . . . Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter Charge Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . Low-Battery Warning . . . . . . . . Charging the Battery . Removing a Battery Installing a Battery Storing a Battery. ........................... ............................ ............................ ............................. 5 Using the Module Bay About the Module Bay ........................... ..... 45 45 47 Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Turned Off Removing and Installing Devices While the Computer Is Running ...... 4 Contents 6 Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad Numeric Keypad . Key Combinations ............................. ............................. ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... 49 49 49 49 49 50 50 50 50 51 51 52 53 System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CD or DVD Tray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Display Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Radios (Including Wireless Networking and the Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology) . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Speaker Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions. . . . . . . . Touch Pad . ................................ .............. Customizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick. Changing the Track Stick Cap ....................... 7 Using CDs, DVDs, and Other Multimedia Using CDs and DVDs . ........................... .......................... ................... ................... ................... ............. 55 55 55 56 56 57 58 59 61 62 64 65 65 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 and Standard Audio . . . . . . . S-Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . Composite Video and Standard Audio . . Composite Video and S/PDIF Digital Audio Enabling S/PDIF Digital Audio . . . . . . Setting Up the Dolby Headphone. . . . . Enabling the Display Settings for a TV . . ............... ............... ............... ............... ............... ............... ............... Contents 5 8 Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to a Network Adapter Network Setup Wizard . ..................... 67 67 68 68 69 71 .......................... ............... .... .... .... Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network Determining Your Network Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connecting to a Wireless Network in Microsoft® Windows® XP. Configuring Security Settings (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Solving Problems Error Messages .............................. ........................ ................. ................. ................. 75 76 76 77 78 78 78 78 79 79 80 81 82 82 83 83 83 84 84 84 Video and Display Problems If the display is blank . . . . . . . . If the display is difficult to read. . . . If only part of the display is readable . Scanner Problems . ............................ ........................... ................ Hard Drive Problems . If you have problems with a hard drive . PC Card Problems ............................. ........................ External Keyboard Problems Power Problems . ............................. .......................... ....................... Unexpected Characters Touch Pad or Mouse Problems Printer Problems. ............................. ............................ ........................ ..................... ..................... ..................... ..................... Network Problems. General Program Problems. A program crashes . . . . . A program stops responding . A solid blue screen appears . Error messages appear . . . 6 Contents CD or DVD Problems . ........................... .......... .......... .......... 84 84 85 85 86 86 86 87 89 89 89 90 90 92 93 93 93 94 94 94 96 96 97 If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, or DVD . . . . . . If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive tray If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound Sound and Speaker Problems ....................... ............ ............ If you have a problem with integrated speakers. If you have a problem with external speakers. . E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Resolving Other Technical Problems Drivers ................... .................... .................................. .................... .................... .................... ............ What Is a Driver? . . . . . . . Identifying Drivers. . . . . . . Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore .............. .......... .......... .......... Creating a Restore Point. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State Undoing the Last System Restore . . . . . . . . . Using the Dell Diagnostics . ® ........................ ................... .................. When to Use the Dell Diagnostics ® Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP. Before You Begin . . . . Reinstalling Windows XP ....................... ....................... 10 Adding and Replacing Parts Before You Begin ............................. .................... .................... 99 99 99 101 102 103 106 Recommended Tools . . . . . Shutting Down Your Computer . Hard Drive. ............................... .................... Returning a Hard Drive to Dell Memory . ................................ .............................. Mini PCI Card Contents 7 Subwoofer Fans. ............................... 109 111 113 115 118 120 121 123 129 129 129 130 130 131 132 132 132 132 149 149 152 155 155 157 .................................. .............................. Hinge Covers Display ................................. ................................ ............................. ............... Keyboard Reserve Battery Card with Bluetooth® Wireless Technology. Specifications . ............................. .................... ................. ................. ................. ................. Using the System Setup Program . Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . Viewing the System Setup Screens. System Setup Screens. . . . . . . Commonly Used Options. . . . . . Enabling the Infrared Sensor . ...................... ................ ........ ........ Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) . Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals . Contacting Dell ............................. ........................... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... Limited Warranties Limited Warranty for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Limited Warranty Terms for Dell-Branded Hardware Products (Canada Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dell Software and Peripherals (Canada Only) . . . . . . 1-Year End-User Manufacturer Guarantee (Latin America and the Caribbean Only) . . . . . . . . Intel® Warranty Statement for Pentium® and Celeron® Processors Only (U.S. and Canada Only) . . . . . . . . Index ................................... 159 8 Contents CAUTION: Safety Instructions Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage. SAFETY: General · · · · · · Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service technician. Always follow installation instructions closely. If you use an extension power cable with your AC adapter, ensure that the total ampere rating of the products plugged in to the extension power cable does not exceed the ampere rating of the extension cable. Do not push objects into air vents or openings of your computer. Doing so can cause fire or electric shock by shorting out interior components. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a carrying case or a closed briefcase, while the computer is turned on. Restricting airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire. Keep your computer away from radiators and heat sources. Also, do not block cooling vents. Avoid placing loose papers underneath your computer; do not place your computer in a closed-in wall unit or on a bed, sofa, or rug. Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a desk top or on the floor, when you use it to run the computer or to charge the battery. Do not cover the AC adapter with papers or other items that will reduce cooling; also, do not use the AC adapter inside a carrying case. The AC adapter may become hot during normal operation of your computer. Use care when handling the adapter during or immediately after operation. Do not allow your portable computer to operate with the base resting directly on exposed skin for extended periods of time. The surface temperature of the base will rise during normal operation (particularly when AC power is present). Allowing sustained contact with exposed skin can cause discomfort or, eventually, a burn. Do not use your computer in a wet environment, for example, near a bath tub, sink, or swimming pool or in a wet basement. If your computer includes an integrated or optional (PC Card) modem, disconnect the modem cable if an electrical storm is approaching to avoid the remote risk of electric shock from lightning via the telephone line. To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not connect or disconnect any cables or perform maintenance or reconfiguration of this product during an electrical storm. Do not use your computer during an electrical storm unless all cables have been disconnected and the computer is operating on battery power. If your computer includes a modem, the cable used with the modem should be manufactured with a minimum wire size of 26 American wire gauge (AWG) and an FCC-compliant RJ-11 modular plug. Before you open the memory module cover, fan covers, or Mini PCI card cover on the bottom of your computer, disconnect all cables from their electrical outlets and disconnect the telephone cable. If your computer has both a modem RJ-11 connector and a network RJ-45 connector, which look alike, make sure you insert the telephone cable into the RJ-11 connector, not the RJ-45 connector. PC Cards may become very warm during normal operation. Use care when removing PC Cards after their continuous operation. Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances. · · · · · · · · · · Safety Instructions 9 www.dell.com | support.dell.com SAFETY: Power · · · · Use only the Dell-provided AC adapter approved for use with this computer. Use of another AC adapter may cause a fire or explosion. Before you connect the computer to an electrical outlet, check the AC adapter voltage rating to ensure that the required voltage and frequency match the available power source. To remove the computer from all power sources, turn the computer off, disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet, and remove any battery installed in the battery bay. To help prevent electric shock, plug the AC adapter and device power cables into properly grounded power sources. These power cables may be equipped with 3-prong plugs to provide an earth grounding connection. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from the power cable plug. If you use a power extension cable, use the appropriate type, 2-prong or 3-prong, to mate with the AC adapter power cable. Be sure that nothing rests on your AC adapter's power cable and that the cable is not located where it can be tripped over or stepped on. If you are using a multiple-outlet power strip, use caution when plugging the AC adapter's power cable into the power strip. Some power strips may allow you to insert the plug incorrectly. Incorrect insertion of the power plug could result in permanent damage to your computer, as well as risk of electric shock and/or fire. Ensure that the ground prong of the power plug is inserted into the mating ground contact of the power strip. · · SAFETY: Battery · · Use only DellTM battery modules that are approved for use with this computer. Use of other types may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Do not carry a battery pack in your pocket, purse, or other container where metal objects (such as car keys or paper clips) could short-circuit the battery terminals. The resulting excessive current flow can cause extremely high temperatures and may result in damage to the battery pack or cause fire or burns. The battery poses a burn hazard if you handle it improperly. Do not disassemble it. Handle a damaged or leaking battery pack with extreme care. If the battery is damaged, electrolyte may leak from the cells and may cause personal injury. Keep the battery away from children. Do not store or leave your computer or battery pack near a heat source such as a radiator, fireplace, stove, electric heater, or other heat-generating appliance or otherwise expose it to temperatures in excess of 60ºC (140ºF). When heated to excessive temperatures, battery cells could explode or vent, posing a risk of fire. Do not dispose of your computer's battery in a fire or with normal household waste. Battery cells may explode. Discard a used battery according to the manufacturer's instructions or contact your local waste disposal agency for disposal instructions. Dispose of a spent or damaged battery promptly. · · · · 10 Safety Instructions SAFETY: Air Travel · Certain Federal Aviation Administration regulations and/or airline-specific restrictions may apply to the operation of your Dell computer while you are on board an aircraft. For example, such regulations/restrictions may prohibit the use of any personal electronic device (PED) that has the capacity for intentional transmission of radio frequency or other electromagnetic signals while on an aircraft. ­ In order to best comply with all such restrictions, if your Dell portable computer is equipped with Dell TrueMobileTM or some other wireless communication device, please disable this device before you board the aircraft and follow all instructions provided by airline personnel with regard to such device. Additionally, the use of any PED, such as a portable computer, may be prohibited in aircraft during certain critical phases of flight, for example, takeoff and landing. Some airlines may further define the critical flight phase as any time the aircraft is below 3050 m (10,000 ft). Please follow the airline's specific instructions as to when the use of a PED is allowed. ­ SAFETY: EMC Instructions Use shielded signal cables to ensure that you maintain the appropriate electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) classification for the intended environment. For parallel printers, a cable is available from Dell. If you prefer, you can order a cable from Dell at its worldwide website at www.dell.com. Static electricity can harm electronic components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components, such as a memory module. You can do so by touching a connector on the back panel. WARNING: Handling the cord on this product, or cords associated with accessories sold with this product, will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash your hands after handling the cord. When Using Your Computer Observe the following safe-handling guidelines to prevent damage to your computer: · · When setting up the computer for work, place it on a level surface. When traveling, do not check the computer as baggage. You can put your computer through an X-ray security machine, but never put your computer through a metal detector. If you have the computer checked by hand, be sure to have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn on the computer. When traveling with the hard drive removed from the computer, wrap the drive in a nonconducting material, such as cloth or paper. If you have the drive checked by hand, be ready to install the drive in the computer. You can put the hard drive through an X-ray security machine, but never put the drive through a metal detector. When traveling, do not place the computer in overhead storage compartments where it could slide around. Do not drop your computer or subject it to other mechanical shocks. Protect your computer, battery, and hard drive from environmental hazards such as dirt, dust, food, liquids, temperature extremes, and overexposure to sunlight. When you move your computer between environments with very different temperature and/or humidity ranges, condensation may form on or within the computer. To avoid damaging the computer, allow sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate before using the computer. · · · · NOTICE: When taking the computer from low-temperature conditions into a warmer environment or from high-temperature conditions into a cooler environment, allow the computer to acclimate to room temperature before turning on power. Safety Instructions 11 www.dell.com | support.dell.com · When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself. As you pull out the connector, keep it evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable make sure both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned. Handle components with care. Hold a component such as a memory module by its edges, not its pins. When preparing to remove a memory module from the system board or disconnect a device from the computer, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter cable, remove any battery installed in the battery bay, and then wait 5 seconds before proceeding to help avoid possible damage to the system board. Clean the display with a soft, clean cloth and water. Apply the water to the cloth; then stroke the cloth across the display in one direction, moving from the top of the display to the bottom. Remove moisture from the display quickly and keep the display dry. Long-term exposure to moisture can damage the display. Do not use a commercial window cleaner to clean your display. If your computer gets wet or is damaged, follow the procedures described in your Product Information Guide. If, after following these procedures, you confirm that your computer is not operating properly, contact Dell (see page 132 for the appropriate contact information). · · · · SAFETY: Ergonomic Computing Habits CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury. CAUTION: Viewing the display or external monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain. For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in the DellTM InspironTM Help file when setting up and using your computer. To access the help file, see page 16. This portable computer is not designed for continuous operation as office equipment. For extended use in an office, it is recommended that you connect an external keyboard. SAFETY: When Working Inside Your Computer Before removing or installing a memory module, Mini PCI card, fan, keyboard, display, reserve battery, or card with Bluetooth® wireless technology, 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 a memory module, Mini PCI card, fan, keyboard, display, reserve battery, or card with Bluetooth wireless technology. NOTICE: Wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting a device or removing a memory module, Mini PCI card, fan, keyboard, display, reserve battery, or card with Bluetooth wireless technology to help prevent possible damage to the system board. 1 2 3 4 5 Shut down your computer and turn off any attached devices. Disconnect your computer and devices from electrical outlets to reduce the potential for personal injury or shock. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer. Remove the main battery from the battery bay. Ground yourself by touching any connector on the back panel. While you work, periodically touch any connector on the back panel to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components. 12 Safety Instructions SAFETY: Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge Static electricity can harm electronic components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components, such as a memory module. You can do so by touching any connector on the back panel of the computer. As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch any connector on the back panel of the computer to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated. You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD): · When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the component. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, be sure to discharge static electricity from your body. When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or packaging. Handle all sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads. · · SAFETY: Battery Disposal Your computer uses a lithium-ion battery and a coin-cell reserve battery. For instructions about replacing the lithium-ion battery in your computer, see "Removing a Battery" on page 42 and "Installing a Battery" on page 43. The reserve battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it. However, should you need to replace it, see "Reserve Battery" on page 120 for instructions. Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site. Safety Instructions 13 www.dell.com | support.dell.com 14 Safety Instructions Finding Information What Are You Looking For? How to access tutorials and other how-to information How to get a copy of my invoice How to extend my warranty How to access Dell Support on my Microsoft® Windows® desktop (U.S. only) · Additional documentation, tools, troubleshooting information, and links to online support resources · · · · A diagnostic program for my computer Drivers for my computer My computer documentation My device documentation · · · · Find It Here Dell Solution Center On your Windows desktop Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD) Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see page 90 for instructions), run the Dell Diagnostics (see page 94 for instructions), or access your documentation. Readme files may be included on your CD to provide last-minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technical-reference material for technicians or experienced users. · · · · · · How to set up a printer Additional information about setting up my computer How to troubleshoot and solve problems How to remove and install parts Technical specifications How to contact Dell Owner's Manual NOTE: This document is available as a PDF at support.dell.com. Finding Information 15 www.dell.com | support.dell.com What Are You Looking For? · How to set up my computer Find It Here 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 The Dell Inspiron 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. Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License These labels are located on 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. The Express Service Code is not available in all countries. · Use the number on the Microsoft Windows License Label if you reinstall your operating system. · Service Tag and Express Service Code · Microsoft Windows License Label 16 Finding Information What Are You Looking For? · Latest drivers for my computer · Answers to technical service and support questions · Online discussions with other users and technical support · Documentation for my computer Find It Here Dell Support Website -- support.dell.com The Dell Support website provides several online tools, including: · Solutions -- Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, and online courses · 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, order status, warranty, and repair information · Downloads -- Drivers, patches, and software updates · Reference -- Computer documentation, product specifications, and white papers 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. Operating System CD The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the Operating System CD. For instructions, see "Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP" on page 96. After you reinstall your operating system, use the Drivers and Utilities CD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer. For instructions, see "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" on page 90. Your operating system product key label is located on your computer. · How to use Windows XP · Documentation for my computer · Documentation for devices (such as a modem) · How to reinstall my operating system Finding Information 17 www.dell.com | support.dell.com 18 Finding Information A Tour of Your Computer Front View display latch display keyboard status lights power button mute button volume control button track stick device status lights keyboard media control buttons touch pad track stick/touch pad buttons display latch release speakers DISPLAY LATCH DISPLAY -- Keeps the display closed. -- For more information about your display, see the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see page 16. A Tour of Your Computer 19 www.dell.com | support.dell.com 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 when you turn off your computer, shut down your computer through the Start menu instead of pressing the power button. DEVICE STATUS LIGHTS Turns on when you turn on the computer. 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. Turns on steadily or blinks when the computer is in a power management mode. It also blinks to indicate battery charge status. Turns on when a card with Bluetooth® wireless technology is enabled. NOTE: The card with Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional feature, so the light turns on only if you ordered the card with your computer. For more information, see the documentation that came with your card. icon in To turn off only the Bluetooth wireless technology functionality, right-click the the system tray and select Disable Bluetooth Radio. To quickly enable or disable all wireless devices, press . 20 A Tour of Your Computer If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the light operates as follows: · · · · · Solid green: The battery is charging. Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged. light operates as follows: If the computer is running on a battery, the Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off). Flashing orange: The battery charge is low. Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low. KEYBOARD -- The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Microsoft® Windows® logo key. For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see "Key Combinations" on page 49. -- Control CD and DVD playback. -- Provides the functionality of a mouse. -- Press this to release the display latch and open the display. MEDIA CONTROL BUTTONS TOUCH PAD DISPLAY LATCH RELEASE SPEAKERS -- To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume control buttons or speaker-volume keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see page 49. -- Track stick and touch pad buttons provide the functionality of a mouse. TRACK STICK/TOUCH PAD BUTTONS TRACK STICK -- Track stick and track stick buttons provide the functionality of a mouse. -- Press these buttons to adjust the speaker volume. -- Press this button to turn off the speaker sound. VOLUME CONTROL BUTTONS MUTE BUTTON A Tour of Your Computer 21 www.dell.com | support.dell.com KEYBOARD STATUS LIGHTS The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following: 9 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. A 22 A Tour of Your Computer Left Side View module bay device latch release audio connectors IEEE 1394 connector MODULE BAY hard drive PC Card slot -- You can install devices such as a CD, DVD, or other optical drive in the module bay. For more information, see page 45. -- Press this to release the device latch. -- Stores software and data. DEVICE LATCH RELEASE HARD DRIVE 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 the DellTM InspironTM Help file. To access the help file, see page 16. 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. A Tour of Your Computer 23 www.dell.com | support.dell.com AUDIO CONNECTORS Attach headphones or speakers to the Attach a microphone to the SECURITY CABLE SLOT connector. connector. -- 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. 24 A Tour of Your Computer Right Side View security cable slot S E C U R I T Y C A B L E S L O T -- Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device. NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot. Back View video connector S-video TV-out connector USB connectors (3) digital-video interface connector AC adapter connector D/Bay (powered USB) connector S-VIDEO TV-OUT CONNECTOR modem connector (RJ-11) network connector (RJ-45) Connects your computer to a TV. Also connects digital audio capable devices using the TV/digital audio adapter cable. A Tour of Your Computer 25 www.dell.com | support.dell.com VIDEO CONNECTOR Connects an external VGA-compatible monitor. For more information, see the Dell Inspiron Help file. To access the help file, see page 16. USB CONNECTORS (3) Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. You can also connect the optional floppy drive directly to a USB connector using the optional floppy-drive cable, as shown below. DIGITAL-VIDEO INTERFACE (DVI) CONNECTOR Connects an external DVI-compatible monitor.With an adapter cable, you can also connect an external VGA-compatible monitor to the DVI connector. 26 A Tour of Your Computer MODEM CONNECTOR (RJ-11) To use the internal modem, connect the telephone line to the modem connector. For additional information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer. 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 into 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. D/BAY (POWERED USB) CONNECTOR Connects powered USB devices such as a DellTM D/Bay, which is an external module bay that accommodates an optical drive, floppy drive, or second hard drive; also connects standard USB devices. A Tour of Your Computer 27 www.dell.com | support.dell.com A C A D A P T E R C O N N E C T O R -- Attaches an AC adapter to the 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: Do not use an AC adapter rated at less than 150 W with this computer. 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. 28 A Tour of Your Computer Bottom View Mini PCI card cover hard drive subwoofer (optional with 12-cell battery only) battery battery charge gauge fan 2 memory module cover fan 3 battery-bay latch release M I N I P C I C A R D C O V E R -- Covers the compartment that contains the Mini PCI card. For more information, see page 106. SUBWOOFER -- An optional component available with the 12-cell battery only. It produces a broader bass output than is provided by the speakers. For more information, see page 109. B A T T E R Y -- When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. For more information, see page 39. BATTERY CHARGE GAUGE -- Provides information on the battery charge. For more information, see page 41. FAN -- The computer uses fans to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating. For more information, see page 111. -- Releases the battery from the battery bay. See "Removing a Battery" on page 42. BATTERY-BAY LATCH RELEASE MEMORY MODULE COVER HARD DRIVE -- Covers the compartment that contains the memory modules. For more information, see page 103. -- Stores software and data. For more information, see "Hard Drive" on page 101 and "Hard Drive Problems" on page 78. A Tour of Your Computer 29 www.dell.com | support.dell.com 30 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 2 3 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP: 1 2 3 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. Click the Start button and click Internet Explorer. The New Connection Wizard appears. Click Connect to the Internet. Setting Up Your Computer 31 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 7 Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then click Next. Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. If you are having problems connecting to the Internet, see "Network Problems" on page 83. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage. Contact your ISP to check the service status, or try connecting again later. Transferring Information to a New Computer The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer wizard to move data from the source computer to the new computer. You can move data such as: · · · · E-mails Toolbar settings Window sizes Internet bookmarks You can transfer the data to the new computer over a network or serial connection, or you can store it on a removable medium, such as a writable CD or floppy disk. To prepare the new computer for the file transfer: 1 2 3 4 5 Click the Start button, point to All Programs Accessories System Tools, and then click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. When the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen appears, click Next. On the Which computer is this? screen, click New Computer and click Next. On the Do you have a Windows XP CD? screen, click I will use the wizard from the Windows XP CD and click Next. When the Now go to your old computer screen appears, go to your source computer. Do not click Next at this time. 32 Setting Up Your Computer To copy data from the source computer: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 On the source computer, insert the Windows XP Operating System CD. On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform additional tasks. Under What do you want to do?, click Transfer files and settings. On the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard welcome screen, click Next. On the Which computer is this? screen, click Old Computer and click Next. On the Select a transfer method screen, click the transfer method you prefer. On the What do you want to transfer? screen, select the items you want to transfer and click Next. After the information has been copied, the Completing the Collection Phase screen appears. Click Finish. On the Now go to your old computer screen on the new computer, click Next. On the Where are the files and settings? screen, select the method you chose for transferring your settings and files and click Next. The wizard reads the collected files and settings and applies them to your new computer. When all of the settings and files have been applied, the Finished screen appears. To transfer data to the new computer: 3 Click Finished and restart the new computer. Setting Up a Printer NOTICE: Complete the operating system setup before you connect a printer to the computer. Follow the prompts that appear on your screen when you turn on the computer to complete the operating system setup. See the documentation that came with the printer for setup information, including how to: · · · · Obtain and install updated drivers. Connect the printer to the computer. Load paper and install the toner or ink cartridge. Contact the printer manufacturer for technical assistance. Setting Up Your Computer 33 www.dell.com | support.dell.com Printer Cable