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DualPoint, ExpressCharge, and Inspiron are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Microsoft, Windows, MS-DOS, and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft

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Initial release: 20 Sep 1999

Last revised: 22 Dec 1999

Summary of Contents for Dell Inspiron 3700

Page 1 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.
Page 2 If the computer is docked to one of Dell's Inspiron 3700 Advanced Port Replicators (APR), you can connect the AC adapter either to the computer or to the APR.
Page 3 Back to Contents Page Power Management Settings: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Experimenting With Power Conservation • Using Key Combinations • Closing the Display • Suspend Mode • Standby Mode • Save-to-Disk Suspend Mode • Power Management Properties for Microsoft Windows 98 • Power Management Properties for Microsoft Windows NT Experimenting With Power Conservation In general, the lower the value you set for each power conservation feature, the longer the battery's charge lasts.
Page 4 monitor is not connected, the computer's liquid crystal display (LCD) shuts off automatically. If you set the Display Close option in System Setup to Standby, the computer enters the standby mode when the display is closed. If you set the Display Option to Active, the display shuts off when it is closed and does not enter the standby mode.
Page 5 S2D file if you removed it. For more information about altering or creating an S2D file, see the readme.S2D file, which can be found in the Dell Utilities folder on your hard-disk drive or on the S2D diskette that came with your computer.
Page 6 If the computer is not allowed to return to room temperature, the battery stops charging before it reaches its full capacity. Battery Usage The battery is partially charged when you receive it. Dell recommends that you charge your battery to full capacity before using it to power the computer.
Page 7 Use of the infrared port When you activate standby mode, the computer can run on battery power for approximately one week (if the battery was fully charged before activating standby mode). If you are going to store the computer, disconnect all peripheral devices and turn off the computer. Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time.
Page 8 electrical outlet or a second battery is installed. To install a second battery, perform the following steps: 1. Save your work and close all open files and application programs. 2. If the computer is docked, undock it. 3. If your system does not have Softex Docking Services or Softex BayManager, go to step 5. ...
Page 9 Dell or access the Dell World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com. Dispose of the old battery properly. Percentage of Charge When you press the battery test button, the number of indicators that light up shows an estimate of the remaining battery charge: If one indicator lights up, the battery has 1 to 20 percent of its charge remaining. ...
Page 10 A battery problem may prevent the battery from being charged to its full potential and can lead to unpredictable operation. To obtain a new battery, call Dell or access the Dell World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com. Dell suggests you follow these precautions when using the battery:...
Page 11 To purchase a new battery, call Dell or access the Dell World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com. About Battery Power You automatically conserve battery power each time you attach the computer to an electrical outlet. The battery is even being recharged when you use AC power.
Page 12 The DVD-ROM and CD-ROM drives are read-only devices that let you play most commercially available 8- or 12-centimeter (cm) sound and video CDs on the computer. In addition to playing most CDs, the DVD-ROM drive can also play DVDs. Dell installed the appropriate CD-ROM drive device drivers on your hard-disk drive.
Page 13 Your computer's CD-ROM and DVD-ROM drives are able to play the following types of disc formats: CD-ROM red-book audio discs (CD-DA) CD-ROM yellow-book mode-1 and mode-2 data discs CD-ROM XA (mode-2 form 1 and form 2; without Adaptive Differential Pulse Code modulation [ADPCM]) CD-I (mode-2 form 1 and form 2) CD-I Ready CD-Bridge...
Page 14 Back to Contents Page Using the Computer: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Storage Devices Dell DualPoint Integrated Pointing Device CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Drives PC Cards Audio Devices Display Embedded Numeric Keypad Extended Desktop Key Combinations Storage Devices Using the Media Bay Your computer comes with a diskette drive installed in the media bay. You can also install a battery, a CD-ROM drive, a DVD-ROM drive, a SuperDisk LS-120 drive module, or second hard-disk drive in the media bay.
Page 15 8. Click OK. Then click OK again to close the Softex window. For the latest information on these services and their use, and to view the Softex software user’s guides, see the Web site at http://www.dell.com/us/en/bsd/topics/products_latit_softex.htm. Installing Devices in the Media Bay Without Softex Docking Services or Softex BayManager To install a device in the media bay, perform the following steps: 1.
Page 16 The DVD-ROM and CD-ROM drives are read-only devices that let you play most commercially available 8- or 12-centimeter (cm) sound and video CDs on the computer. In addition to playing most CDs, the DVD-ROM drive can also play DVDs. Dell installed the appropriate CD-ROM drive device drivers on your hard-disk drive.
Page 17 You can connect speakers, a microphone, headphones, and record/playback devices such as cassette players, CD players, and VCRs to the audio connectors on the computer. The connectors are located on the right side of the computer. Dell recommends using amplified speakers for the best sound.
Page 18 <Num Lk> Toggles the embedded numeric keypad off Temporarily disables the embedded numeric keypad; enables the <Fn><key> lowercase characters/functions of the keyboard Temporarily disables the embedded numeric keypad; enables the <Fn><Shift><key> uppercase characters/functions of the keyboard Temporarily enables a cursor-control key in the embedded numeric <Shift><cursor key>...
Page 19 <Fn><d> Turns off the display* <Fn><h> Turns off the hard-disk drive* <Fn><Esc> Activates sleep or standby mode <Fn><a> or Activates save-to-disk suspend (S2D) mode or hibernate mode(ACPI only)* <Fn><q> on French keyboards * This key combination does not function with ACPI if the settings have not been configured with the Power Management Properties window in the Control Panel.
Page 20 When you attach an external Personal System/2 (PS/2)-mouse to the computer, the DualPoint integrated pointing device is automatically disabled. Using the Dell DualPoint Integrated Pointing Device The PS/2 touch pad (see Figure 4) detects the position of your finger over a touch-sensitive area to position the cursor within the display screen. The touch pad provides the computer with full mouse functionality. The touch pad’s two buttons, located directly below the touch pad,...
Page 21 To best use the track stick, use the following techniques: To move the cursor, apply pressure to the track stick with your right or left index finger. Press up or down to move the cursor to the top or bottom of the display screen. Press left or right to move the cursor to the left or right of the display screen. To select an object, tap once on the track stick or use your thumb to press the left track stick button. The track stick buttons perform standard mouse functions. To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object. Then press and hold the left track stick button. Leave your thumb on the button and move the selected object by pressing the track stick in the desired direction. To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and then tap the left track stick button twice or tap the track stick itself twice. The track stick functions much like the touch pad in that it allows you to use buttons for mouse functions or the pointing device itself. ...
Page 22 About PC Cards The computer has a slot into which you can install up to two PC Cards if the PC Cards comply with Release 2.01 of the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) standard and Release 4.2 of the Japanese Electronic Industry Development Association (JEIDA) standard.
Page 23 operation of the card before you remove it. If you do not remove the card in the configuration utility, you could lose data from open application programs. To remove a PC Card (see Figure 8), perform the following steps: 1. Press the PC Card eject button. The PC Card or blank protrudes from the slot slightly.
Page 24 When using the integrated keyboard, you press <Fn> and the appropriate keys to perform certain functions. To perform such functions on an external keyboard, you press <Scroll Lock> and the appropriate keys. You must be sure that the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program. Expanded Video Mode When working in text mode, you can select the font used to display text.
Page 25 12. Click Apply. 13. Click OK. 14. Click Yes. 15. Click OK to close the Display Properties dialog box. NOTE: True Simul-mode (the ability to simultaneously display video of the same content and resolution on both the computer display screen and the external monitor) is not supported if the computer is booted to MS-DOS, using a full- screen MS-DOS session under a Microsoft Windows operating system, or the ATI Mobility M1 video driver is not loaded. This limitation may also be noted in operating systems other than Microsoft Windows. ...
Page 26 Contacting Dell: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Overview • International Dialing Codes • Americas Contact Numbers • Europe Contact Numbers • Asia and Other Regions Contact Numbers Overview When you need to contact Dell, use the telephone numbers, codes, and electronic addresses provided in the following sections. "International Dialing Codes" provides the various codes required to make long-distance and international calls.
Page 27 Japan (Kawasaki) Korea (Seoul) Luxembourg — Macau — Not required Malaysia (Penang) Mexico (Colonia Granada) Netherlands (Amsterdam) New Zealand — Norway (Lysaker) Not required Poland (Warsaw) Singapore (Singapore) Not required South Africa (Johannesburg) 09/091 Spain (Madrid) Sweden (Upplands Vasby) Switzerland (Geneva) Taiwan —...
Page 28: Switchboard
Customer Service toll free: 1-800-624-9897 (Credit Return Authorization Numbers) National Accounts (systems purchased by established Dell national accounts [have your account number handy], medical institutions, or value-added resellers [VARs]): Customer Service and Technical Support (Return toll free: 1-800-822-8965...
Page 29 481 91 19 Home/Small Business Sales toll free: 0800 16884 Corporate Sales 481 91 00 481 92 99 Switchboard 481 91 00 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/be E-mail: tech_be@dell.com Czech Republic Technical Support 22 83 27 27...
Page 30: Web Site: Http://Support.euro.dell.com/Ie
TechConnect BBS 06103 971-666 Switchboard 06103 971-0 Web site: http://www.dell.de/support E-mail: tech_support_germany@dell.com Ireland Technical Support 1-850-543-543 (Bray) Customer Care 204 4026 NOTE: Home/Small Business Customer Care (Bracknell, 0870 906 0010 Customers in U.K.) Ireland call the Sales ...
Page 31: Customer Care
Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/no E-mail: nor_support@dell.com Poland Technical Support 60 61 999 (Warsaw) Customer Care 60 61 999 Sales 60 61 999 Switchboard 60 61 999 60 61 998 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/pl E-mail: pl_support@dell.com ...
Page 32: Toll Free: 0800
1 800 888 202 Corporate Sales toll free: 1 800 888 213 New Zealand Technical Support 0900 51010 (Dell Dimension systems only) ($2.50 + GST per call) Technical Support (Other systems) 0800 446 255 Customer Service ...
Page 33 709 7710 (Johannesburg) Customer Care 709 7710 Sales 706 7700 709 0495 Switchboard 709 7700 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/za E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com Southeast Customer Technical Support, Customer Service, 60 4 810-4810 and Sales (Penang, Malaysia) Asian/Pacific Countries...
Page 34 Back to Contents Page Conventions: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Notes, Notices, and Cautions Typographical Conventions Notes, Notices, and Cautions Throughout this guide, blocks of text may be accompanied by an icon and printed in bold type or in italic type. These blocks are notes, notices, and cautions, and they are used as follows: NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer system.
Page 35 Back to Contents Page Customizing Your Computer: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Using the System Setup Program System Setup Options Power Management Settings Save-to-Disk Suspend Utility Back to Contents Page...
Page 36 Features of the Dell Diagnostics The Dell Diagnostics provides a series of menus and options from which you choose particular test groups or subtests. You can also control the sequence in which the tests are run. The diagnostic test groups or subtests also have these helpful features:...
Page 37 For a quick check of your computer, select the Quickly Test All Devices option. This option runs only the subtests that do not require user interaction and that do not take a long time to run. Dell recommends that you choose this option first to increase the odds of tracing the source of the problem quickly.
Page 38 The Menu Help category provides descriptions of the main menu screen area, the Device Groups, and the different diagnostic menus and commands and instructions on how to use them. Keys Category The Keys Help category explains the functions of the all of the keystrokes that can be used in Dell Diagnostics.
Page 39 Versions Category The Versions Help category lists the version numbers of the subtests that are used by the Dell Diagnostics. Back to Contents Page...
Page 40 "Using the Media Bay." NOTE: If the computer is docked to the Inspiron 3700 Advanced Port Replicator (APR), turn off the computer and undock it before installing or removing a diskette drive. The diskette drive lets you install programs and transfer data using 3.5-inch diskettes.
Page 41 NOTE: You may have trouble using the display fonts feature with MS-DOS® programs that use downloaded fonts. Video Drivers and Video Resolution The Dell-installed video drivers work with the operating system to let you customize the video resolution and number of screen colors on your display.
Page 42 640 x 480 (VGA) 4.2 B (32-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60 Hz NTSC, 50 Hz PAL 800 x 600 (super VGA [SVGA]) 256 (8-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60 Hz NTSC, 50 Hz PAL 800 x 600 (SVGA) 65 k (16-bit) 60, 75, 85 Hz 60 Hz NTSC, 50 Hz PAL 800 x 600 (SVGA)
Page 43 800 x 600 (16 bit) 1024 x 768 (16 bit) 1280 x 1024 (16 bit) 1600 x 1200 (16 bit) 640 x 480 (24 bit) 800 x 600 (24 bit) 1024 x 768 (24 bit) 1280 x 1024 (24 bit) 1600 x 1200 (24 bit) 640 x 480 (32 bit) 800 x 600 (32 bit)
Page 44 13. Click the display that is grayed out. When asked if you want to enable this display, click Yes, and then click Apply. NOTE: True Simul-mode (the ability to simultaneously display video of the same content and resolution on both the computer display screen and the external display) is not supported if the system is booted to MS-DOS, using a full-screen MS-DOS session under a Microsoft Windows operating system, or the ATI Mobility M1 video driver is not loaded. This limitation may also be noted in operating ...
Page 45 (.pdf) (253 KB) Dell Inspiron 3700 Reference and Troubleshooting Guide (.pdf) (2544 KB) Dell Inspiron 3700 Advanced Port Replicator User's Guide (.pdf) (927 KB) NOTES: PDF files require Adobe™ Acrobat Reader, which can be downloaded from the Adobe World Wide Web site. To view a PDF file, launch Acrobat Reader. Click File–> Open and select the PDF file.
Page 46 Installing the Microsoft® Windows® 98 Operating System Drivers Installing the Microsoft® Windows NT® Operating System Drivers NOTE: For more information on using the operating system installed on your computer by Dell, see the operating system user's guide that came with your computer. Back to Contents Page...
Page 47 If the faulty. problem persists, enable the Pointing Device option. If the problem persists, call Dell for technical assistance. Bad command or file name The command you entered does not exist or Make sure that you have typed the command correctly, is not in the pathname you specified.
Page 48 If the problem persists, try another drive. Then run the Hard-Disk Drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics The hard-disk drive may be faulty. Turn off the computer, remove the drive, and boot the...
Page 49 (code 1-1-3) means that the computer was unable to read the data in nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM). This information is important to the Dell support staff if you need to call for technical assistance.
Page 50 Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause. If you are still unable to resolve the problem, call Dell for technical assistance. Table 2. Flash Codes and Corrective Actions Message Cause...
Page 51 Reserved; generated by the video controller IRQ10 Available for use by a PC Card or audio controller unless the Inspiron 3700 Advanced Port Replicator (APR) is attached IRQ11 Generated by Universal Serial Bus (USB), PC Card, and audio controllers; available for use by a PC Card IRQ12 Reserved; generated by the keyboard controller to indicate that the output buffer of the DualPoint™ integrated pointing device or the ...
Page 52 determine if the memory address of an external peripheral (such as a PC Card) conflicts with a memory address reserved by the system. Check the documentation of the external I/O device to determine its memory address. If there is a conflict with a memory address reserved by the system, change the address of the device.
Page 53 Back to Contents Page Connecting External Devices: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Connectors • Audio • S-Video TV-Out • Keyboard • Keypad • Mouse • Connecting an External Monitor • Using an External Monitor Connectors Figure 1 to locate the connectors on the back of the computer. NOTICE: When disconnecting external devices from the back of the computer, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before you disconnect a device to avoid possible damage to the system board.
Page 54 On an external keyboard, the <Scroll Lock> key acts the same way as the <Fn> key on the computer’s keyboard (if the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program). You can also connect an external keyboard to the Inspiron 3700 Advanced Port Replicator (APR). Keypad You can attach a PS/2-compatible external numeric keypad to the computer's mini-DIN keypad connector.
Page 55 If you are using a PS/2-compatible mouse that is not made by Microsoft and the mouse does not work properly, reboot the computer. If the mouse still does not work, install the drivers from the diskette that came with the mouse and reboot the computer. You can also connect an external mouse to the Inspiron 3700 APR. Connecting an External Monitor The computer's video connector is used to connect an external monitor to the computer.
Page 56 If the external monitor is turned off when you boot your computer, the computer still sends the video image to the external monitor. In this case, you will not see an image on either the computer's display or the external monitor. To see an image, turn on the external monitor or switch the video image to the computer’s display by pressing <Fn><F8>...
Page 57 Back to Contents Page Getting Help: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Help Overview Contacting Dell Back to Contents Page...
Page 58: Techfax
World Wide Web on the Internet The Internet is your most powerful tool for obtaining information about your computer and other Dell products. Through the Internet, you can access most of the services described in this section, including AutoTech, TechFax, order status, technical support, and product information.
Page 59: Sales
TechFax Service Dell takes full advantage of fax technology to serve you better. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, you can call the Dell TechFax line toll- free for all kinds of technical information. Using a touch-tone phone, you can select from a full directory of topics. The technical information you request is sent within minutes to the fax number you designate.
Page 60 Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: 1. Call Dell to obtain an authorization number, and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box. For the telephone number to call, see the contact numbers for your region.
Page 61 Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell. Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code: Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed: Back to Contents Page...
Page 62 Back to Contents Page Introduction: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Overview • Hardware Features • Software Features • Available Options • Getting Help Overview The Dell computers are expandable multimedia systems using the latest Intel® Pentium® or Celeron™ technologies. The computer includes the Dell DualPoint™ integrated pointing device, which provides a touch pad and a track stick to control the cursor on the display screen. This section describes the major hardware and software features of your computer. Figure 1 Figure 2 show the front and back view of the computer, respectively.
Page 63 Miniature Deutsche Industrie Norm (DIN) connectors for connecting external speakers, headphones, or an external microphone to the computer. A TV-out S-video connector and composite TV-out adapter cable that allows you to connect a television to your computer. You can obtain the latest video drivers on Dell's World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com/filelib.
Page 64 Appendix B, "Using the System Setup Program," in the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide. Software support for the optional APR. Dell Diagnostics for evaluating the computer's components and devices. For information on using the diagnostics, refer to "Running the Dell Diagnostics" in Chapter 3 of the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide.
Page 65 Getting Help If at any time you don't understand a procedure described in this guide, or if your computer does not perform as expected, Dell provides a number of tools to help you. For more information on these help tools, see "Getting...
Page 66 The Inspiron 3700 Advanced Port Replicator (APR) has the same I/O connectors as your computer. In addition, the APR has a second Personal System/2 (PS/2) connector, a second Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector, and an Ethernet network connector.
Page 67 The default address of the infrared port is COM3. To avoid resource conflicts with other devices, remap the address of the infrared port. When the computer is being used with the Inspiron 3700 APR docking solution, the infrared port on the computer is automatically disabled.
Page 68 Back to Contents Page Keyboard: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Embedded Numeric Keypad • Display Key Combinations • Power Conservation Key Combinations • Processing Speed Key Combinations • Speaker Key Combinations • System Function Key Combinations • CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Drive Key Combinations Embedded Numeric Keypad As you work, you may want to use the embedded numeric keypad (see Figure 1) to enter numbers in spreadsheet or financial programs.
Page 69 <Fn> + up arrow Incrementally increases brightness. <Fn> + right arrow Decreases contrast, which has no effect on an active-matrix display. <Fn> + left arrow Increases contrast, which has no effect on an active-matrix display. <Fn><F5> Toggles the computer's display between regular video mode and reverse video mode (white on black).
Page 70 Speaker Key Combinations NOTE: On an external keyboard, use <Scroll Lock> with the appropriate keys if the External Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program. Use the key combinations in Table 5 to adjust the computer's speaker volume and to enable and disable the speakers. Table 5.
Page 71 Link Verification Results Print Date: 10/7/99 Source Documents with Failed Links C:\TEMP\Cypress\r_r.htm (failed links : 6) C:\TEMP\Cypress\battery.htm (failed links : 2) C:\TEMP\Cypress\error.htm (failed links : 2) C:\TEMP\Cypress\specs.htm (failed links : 2) C:\TEMP\Cypress\win9x.htm (failed links : 2) C:\TEMP\Cypress\docs.htm (failed links : 3) C:\TEMP\Cypress\r_r.htm Link: file:///A:/5169ttb0.htm#14434...
Page 72 Link: #footnote1 Full URL: C:\TEMP\Cypress\specs.htm#footnote1 Status: Document found, but internal link does not exist Link: #footnote2 Full URL: C:\TEMP\Cypress\specs.htm#footnote2 Status: Document found, but internal link does not exist C:\TEMP\Cypress\win9x.htm #installing_audio_drivers Link: Full URL: C:\TEMP\Cypress\win9x.htm#installing_audio_drivers Document found, but internal link does not exist Status: Link: #installing_video_drivers Full URL: C:\TEMP\Cypress\win9x.htm#installing_video_drivers Status: Document found, but internal link does not exist C:\TEMP\Cypress\docs.htm Link: 3700Help.chm Full URL: C:\TEMP\Cypress\3700Help.chm File not found Status: Link: popup.ocx Full URL: C:\TEMP\Cypress\popup.ocx Status: File not found Link: stop.gif Full URL: C:\TEMP\Cypress\stop.gif Status: File not found...
Page 73 Back to Contents Page Media Bay: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Using the Media Bay • Installing Devices in the Media Bay With Softex Docking Services or Softex BayManager Software • Installing Devices in the Media Bay Without Softex Docking Services or Softex BayManager Software • Setting Up a Second Hard-Disk Drive Using the Media Bay...
Page 74 Installing Devices in the Media Bay Without Softex Docking Services or Softex BayManager Software To install a device in the media bay, perform the following steps: 1. Verify that the Diskette Reconfig option in the System Setup program is set to Any Time. 2.
Page 75 Back to Contents Page Technical Overview: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference System Features IRQ Line Assignments Video Memory System Features This section describes the major hardware and software features of your computer. Figure 1 Figure 2 show the front and back view of the computer, respectively.
Page 76 A TV-out S-video connector and composite TV-out adapter cable that allows you to connect a television to your computer. You can obtain the latest video drivers on Dell's World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com/filelib. Ultra direct memory access (DMA)/33 data transfer protocol for Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA)/integrated drive electronics (IDE) hard-disk drive interface.
Page 77 Software support for the optional APR. Dell Diagnostics for evaluating the computer's components and devices. For information on using the diagnostics, refer to "Running the Dell Diagnostics" in Chapter 3 of the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide.
Page 78 Instructions for connecting or installing these options are included in the upgrade kit you receive from Dell. Video The Dell-installed video drivers work with the operating system to let you customize the video resolution and number of screen colors on your display.
Page 79 column and move across the row to the right under the corresponding second resolution. Table 2. Display Resolution and Color Depth Without DVD and 3D Software Running (in Bits) Secondary 640 x 480 800 x 600 1024 x 768 1280 x 1024 640 x 480 (8 bit) 800 x 600 (8 bit) 1024 x 768 (8 bit)
Page 80 IRQ10 Available for use by a PC Card or audio controller unless the APR is attached IRQ11 Generated by USB, PC Card, and audio controllers; available for use by a PC Card IRQ12 Reserved; generated by the keyboard controller to indicate that the output buffer of the DualPoint integrated pointing device or the external PS/2 mouse is full IRQ13 Reserved;...
Page 81 Address Device 0000-001F DMA controller #1 0020-003F Interrupt controller #1 0040-005F System timers 0060-006F Keyboard controller 0070-007F RTC and nonmaskable interrupt (NMI) enable 0080-009F DMA page registers 00A0-00BF Interrupt controller #2 00C0-00DF DMA controller #2 00F0-00FF Math coprocessor 0170-0177 CD-ROM drive controller 01F0-01F7 Hard-disk drive controller 0210-0217...
Page 82 PC Cards with encryption features. If you forget any of your passwords, call Dell. For your protection, Dell’s technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to make sure that an unauthorized person is not trying to use the computer.
Page 83 (if one is being used) that can be the same as or different from the password for the primary hard-disk drive. NOTE: Only hard-disk drives purchased from Dell for use with your Dell computer support the hard-disk drive password option.
Page 84 Asset Tag Utility Dell has installed the Asset Tag utility on your computer. The Asset Tag utility allows you to enter an asset tag number that you or your company assigns to the computer. The default System Setup screens do not show the asset tag number unless you enter one by using this utility.
Page 85 To delete the owner tag without assigning a new one, perform the following steps: 1. Click the Start button, point to Programs, and click MS-DOS Prompt. 2. Type CD c:\Dell\Util and press <Enter>. 3. Type asset /o /d and press <Enter>.
Page 86 Back to Contents Page PC Cards: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference About PC Cards • Installing PC Cards • Removing PC Cards • Configuring PC Cards About PC Cards The computer has a slot into which you can install up to two PC Cards if the PC Cards comply with Release 2.01 of the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) standard and Release 4.2 of the Japanese Electronic Industry Development Association...
Page 87 Save the blank to use whenever you do not have a PC Card installed. The blank protects the PC Card connector from dust and other particles. Removing PC Cards NOTICE: If you are using Windows 98, use the PC Card configuration utility on the taskbar to select and stop a card before you remove it.
Page 88 Back to Contents Page Ports and Connectors: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference About the I/O Connectors USB Connector Audio Connectors PS/2 Connector Video Connector Serial Port Connector Parallel Port Connector AC Power Connector Docking Connector Infrared Port About the I/O Connectors You can connect external devices to the input/output (I/O) connectors. The computer's basic input/output system (BIOS) detects the presence of external devices when you boot (start) or reboot your computer.
Page 89 1 Microphone-in connector 2 Line-out connector 3 Line-in connector 4 TV-out S-video connector TV-Out S-Video Connector You can connect a television with an S-video connector to your computer. Figure 2 shows the location of the TV-out S-video connector on your computer.
Page 90 The parallel port can also be configured for compatibility with the PS/2 standard. Docking Connector The docking connector supports Dell's APR docking solution. USB Connector The USB connector supports the use of a USB hub device to attach multiple devices. USB devices are typically low-speed peripherals such as mice, keyboards, printers, and computer speakers.
Page 91 NOTE: If the computer is in standby mode or save-to-disk-suspend (S2D) mode when you attach an external mouse, the device is recognized immediately by the computer when it resumes normal operation. However, programs that were already running may need to be restarted in order to recognize the mouse. When you attach a PS/2 mouse to the computer, the DualPoint integrated pointing device is automatically disabled.
Page 92 Infrared Port The computer’s infrared (IR) port is compatible with Infrared Data Association (IrDA) 1.1 (Fast IR) and 1.0 (Slow IR) standards. An infrared port lets you transfer files from your computer to another infrared-compatible device without using cable connections. An infrared data stream is transmitted through a lens in the computer up to a distance of 1 meter (m) (3.3 feet [ft]).
Page 93 Back to Contents Page Power Sources: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference AC Adapter Batteries AC Adapter Using the AC Adapter The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. The AC adapter kit includes two cables: the AC adapter cable and an AC power cable.
Page 94 If the computer is not allowed to return to room temperature, the battery stops charging before it reaches its full capacity. Battery Usage The battery is partially charged when you receive it. Dell recommends that you charge your battery to full capacity before using it to power the computer.
Page 95 If necessary, print these instructions for reference before proceeding. Figure 2. Installing a Battery 1. Save your work and close all open files and application programs. 2. If the computer is docked, undock it. 3. If the battery bay contains a battery and your system is off, go to step 5. ...
Page 96 Hot Key option is enabled in the System Setup program). Use the save-to-disk suspend (S2D) mode. Place the computer in S2D mode by pressing <Fn><a> (or <Fn><q> on a French keyboard). When the green power indicator turns off, continue to step 6. 6.
Page 97 If the battery is experiencing a permanent failure, when you press the battery test button, you will see no indicators. If you install such a battery into the computer, the amber battery status indicator on the computer flashes rapidly. To purchase a new battery, call Dell or access the Dell World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com.
Page 98 Contact local authorities for the location of a chemical waste collection program nearest you. To purchase a new battery, call Dell or access the Dell World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com. ...
Page 99 Other power conservation features, such as standby mode, stop almost all system activity. They allow you to maximize power conservation when your work is interrupted. Experiment with power conservation features to achieve the optimum power conservation for your work environment. Turning the Computer On To turn on the computer, press the power button.
Page 100 Back to Contents Page Power Conservation: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Experimenting With Power Conservation Standby Mode Using Key Combinations Power Management Properties for Microsoft Windows 98 Closing the Display Power Management Properties for Microsoft Windows NT Suspend Mode Save-to-Disk Suspend Mode Experimenting With Power Conservation In general, the lower the value you set for each power conservation feature, the longer the battery's charge lasts.
Page 101 Closing the Display One way to conserve power on the computer is to close the display when the computer is not in use. When you close the display and an external monitor is not connected, the computer's liquid crystal display (LCD) shuts off automatically. If you set the Display Close option in System Setup to Standby, the computer enters the standby mode when the display is closed.
Page 102 S2D file if you removed it. For more information about altering or creating an S2D file, see the readme.S2D file, which can be found in the Dell Utilities folder on your hard-disk drive or...
Page 103 To create an S2D partition, perform the following steps. NOTE: If you are creating the partition on a new hard-disk drive, if Dell did not install MS-DOS on your hard-disk drive, or if you are using an operating system that is not compatible with MS-DOS, read the readme.s2d file before performing the following procedure.
Page 104 Specifications" — reference material about the details of your computer "Technical "Getting Help" — help tools Dell provides to assist you if you have a problem with the computer and that explain how and when to call Dell for technical assistance "Documentation" — links to additional documentation Warranty and Return Policy Information...
Page 105 Notational Conventions The following subsections list notational conventions used in this document. Notes, Notices, and Cautions Throughout this guide, blocks of text may be accompanied by an icon and printed in bold type or in italic type. These blocks are notes, notices, and cautions, and they are used as follows: ...
Page 106 PC Cards: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference Powering Your Computer: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference Preface: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference Removing and Replacing Parts: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference (check for broken links) Setup and Operation: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference Suspend-to-Disk Utility: Dell Inspiron 3700 System Reference...
Page 107 Thermal Cooling Assembly Overview This section provides instructions for removing and replacing field-replaceable components, assemblies, and subassemblies in the Dell Inspiron 3700 portable computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure in this document assumes the following conditions: The computer and any attached peripherals are turned off, and the peripherals are disconnected from the input/output (I/O) panel on the back of the computer.
Page 108 Recommended Tools Most of the procedures in this document require the use of one or more of the following tools: # 1 magnetized Phillips-head screwdriver Small flat-blade screwdriver Small plastic scribe Processor extractor Preparing to Work Inside the Computer Before you start to work on the computer, perform the following steps. NOTICE: Failure to perform the following steps could result in damage to the computer.
Page 109 also included in the illustration. Examples are shown in Figure 3. Match the actual screw to the graphic in the illustration to check for correct length. Figure 3. Screw Identification NOTICE: When reinstalling a screw, you must use a screw of the correct diameter and length. Otherwise, hardware damage could result.
Page 110 3. While holding the cable in place, close the ZIF connector. 4. To ensure a firm connection, make sure the ZIF connector is completely closed. Removing Field-Replaceable Parts and Assemblies Figure 5. Exploded View — Computer 1 System board 2 Bottom case assembly 3 Media bay device 4 Main battery 5 Hard-disk drive assembly...
Page 111 NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, remove the power cable, the battery, and the second battery (if installed) before you service the computer. NOTICE: The hard-disk drive is very sensitive to shock. Handle the assembly by its edges (do not squeeze the top of the hard-disk drive case), and avoid dropping it.
Page 112 Memory Modules Figure 8. Memory Module Removal 1 DIMM A 2 DIMM B 3 Memory module sockets (2) 4 Inner tabs (2 per socket) To remove a memory module, perform the following steps. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, remove the power cable, the battery, and the second battery (if installed) before you service the computer.
Page 113 1 10-mm screws (7) 2. Remove the seven 10-mm screws, labeled with a "circle K," that secure the keyboard to the computer (see Figure 3. Turn the computer right-side up and open the display. NOTICE: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace.
Page 114 1 Keyboard cable 2 Track stick cable 8. Disconnect the keyboard cable from the connector on the system board. The keyboard cable is the wide, flexible cable. 9. Carefully disconnect the track stick cable from the ZIF connector on the palmrest’s flexible printed circuit (FPC). 10.
Page 115 1 Captive screws (3) 2 Thermal cooling assembly arm 3 Microprocessor module 4 White marks on the microprocessor board 5 Microprocessor shield 6 3-mm screws (2) To remove the microprocessor module, perform the following steps. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, the power cable, battery, and second battery (if installed) must be removed before you service the computer.
Page 116 1 4-mm screws (3) 2 Snap tab 3 Bottom case assembly 4 Snap tab 5 LCD flex cable 6 Hinge cover 7 Display assembly To remove the display assembly, perform the following steps. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, the power cable, battery, and second battery (if installed) must be removed before you service the computer.
Page 117 1 Display assembly bezel 6 Hinge cover 2 Latch 7 LCD panel 3 3-mm screws (6) 8 Plastic screw covers (2) 4 Display-assembly top cover 9 4-mm screws (6) 5 LCD flex cable 10 Rubber screw covers (4) To remove the display assembly bezel, perform the following steps. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, remove the power cable, the battery, and the second battery (if installed) before you service the computer.
Page 118 To remove the 14.1-inch display LCD panel, perform the following steps. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, remove the power cable, the battery, and the second battery (if installed) before you service the computer. 1. Remove the main battery. 2.
Page 119 1 Display assembly bezel 2 Back-light plug 3 Latch 4 Inverter 5 ZIF connector 6 3-mm screws (3) 7 Display assembly top cover 8 LCD flex cable 9 LCD panel 10 5-mm screws (4) 11 Plastic screw covers (2) 12 4-mm screws (6) 13 Rubber screw covers (4) ...
Page 120 1. Remove the 4-mm screw securing the metal cable clip to the left hinge of the display-assembly top cover (see Figure 15). 2. Remove the cable out from under the plastic strain-relief retainer located on the bottom of the display-assembly hinge cover. 3.
Page 121 1 Backlight connector 2 Label 3 Inverter 4 Jumpers 5 ZIF connector 3. Place the inverter in the cover top. 4. Reinstall the three 3-mm screws that secure the inverter to the top cover. 5. Connect the LCD flex cable to the ZIF connector on the inverter. Replacing the 12.1-Inch LCD Panel 1.
Page 122 palmrest disconnects the reserve battery and causes the computer to lose the date and time information as well as all user-specified parameters in NVRAM. If possible, make a copy of this information before you disconnect the reserve battery. Figure 18. Removing the Palmrest Assembly Screws 1 20-mm screws (5) ...
Page 123 1 Palmrest flexible cable 2 Bottom case assembly 3 Touch-pad connector 4 Palmrest assembly 9. Carefully remove the palmrest assembly from the bottom case assembly (see Figure 19). Reserve Battery To remove the reserve battery, perform the following steps. NOTICE: The reserve battery provides power to the computer’s RTC and NVRAM when the computer is turned off. Removing the battery causes the computer to lose the date and time information as well as all user-specified parameters in NVRAM.
Page 124 1 Bay latches (2) 2 Springs (2) 3 Bottom case assembly 4 Bay latch buttons (2) 5 Location of snap tabs (2) 6 Sliders (2) To remove the bay latch assemblies, perform the following steps: 1. Remove the main battery. 2.
Page 125 4. Remove the display assembly. 5. Remove the palmrest assembly. 6. Remove the microprocessor module. 7. Remove any PC Cards or plastic blanks from the PC Card slot. 8. Verify that the PC Card ejectors do not extend from the PC Card slot. 9.
Page 126 1 4-mm screws (2) 2 Thermal cooling assembly and exhaust fan To remove the thermal cooling assembly, perform the following steps. NOTICE: To avoid damaging the system board, remove the power cable, the battery, and the second battery (if installed) before you service the computer.
Page 127 To create an S2D partition, perform the following steps. NOTE: If you are creating the partition on a new hard-disk drive, if Dell did not install MS-DOS on your hard-disk drive, or if you are using an operating system that is not compatible with MS-DOS, read the readme.s2d file before performing the following procedure.
Page 128 Back to Contents Page...
Page 129 If you forget any of your passwords, call Dell. For your protection, Dell’s technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity to make sure that an unauthorized person is not trying to use the computer. Using a Primary Password The primary password allows you to protect the computer from unauthorized access.
Page 130 You can use either security cable slot to secure your computer when it is not docked to a Dell Inspiron 3700 APR. However, to lock your computer and prevent unauthorized removal of the hard-disk drive, insert the locking device into the security cable slot located between the hard-disk drive and the speaker, and lock the device with its associated key.
Page 131 Asset Tag Utility Dell has installed the Asset Tag utility on your computer. The Asset Tag utility allows you to enter an asset tag number that you or your company assigns to the computer. The default System Setup screens do not show the asset tag number unless you enter one by using this utility.
Page 132 NOTE: For security, you cannot set, change, or delete the owner tag if the primary or administrator password is set. Table 1 lists the command-line options you can use with the Asset Tag utility. To use one of these options, open an MS-DOS® prompt, type asset and a space followed by the option, and then press <Enter>.
Page 133 After you set up your computer, run the System Setup program to familiarize yourself with your system configuration information and optional settings. Dell recommends that you write down the information for future reference. NOTE: If the computer uses the Microsoft® Windows NT® 4.0 or Windows® 98 operating system, you must use the System Setup program to view and change your system configuration.
Page 134 Options The box on the left half of screens 1, 2, and 4 lists options that define the installed hardware in your computer and the power conservation and security features for your computer. Fields next to the options contain settings or values. You can change those values that appear bright on the screen. Options or values that you cannot change (because they are determined or calculated by the computer) appear less bright.
Page 135 Diskette Reconfig Allows application programs that access the diskette drive to run at their optimum speed. Settings are At Reboot Only and Any Time. When Diskette Reconfig is set to Any Time (the default), you do not have to reboot after you install a diskette drive in the media bay or attach a diskette drive to the parallel connector on the back of the computer.
Page 136 None I3700 APR NIC — Causes your computer to attempt first to boot from a network source. For a change in the Boot Second device option to take effect, you must reboot your computer. Boot Third device If the computer cannot find the software it needs to start the operating system on the drive identified in Boot Second device, it will search the device named in Boot Third device.
Page 137 Infrared Data Port Allows you to avoid resource conflicts by remapping the address of the infrared ports or disabling the port. The COM1, COM2, COM3, and COM4 settings allow you to take advantage of the computer's Fast IR support. Settings for this option are: Disabled —...
Page 138 in keyboard. Set this option to Scroll Lock (the default) if you are using an external keyboard. Set this option to Not Installed to disable this function on the external keyboard. Primary Password Displays the current status of the primary password and allows you to assign or change this password. (System Security) Settings for this option are: Disabled (the default) —...
Page 139 Table 3. Page 3 Options of the System Setup Program Option Function Battery Status Displays the charge status of the installed batteries. -Left Battery -Right Battery NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help. Page 4 Options Figure 4 Table 4...
Page 140 PC Card. All drivers supplied by Dell with your computer are configured to allow the computer to resume normal operation when a modem receives an incoming call. If you use a PC Card that you did not receive from Dell, check the documentation to make sure this feature is set to Enabled.
Page 141 Back to Contents Page System Setup Options: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference AC • Admin Password • Alarm Resume • Asset Tag • Audio Mode • Battery • Battery Status • BIOS Version • Boot First Device • Boot Second Device • Boot Third Device • Boot Speed • Brightness • Click Volume • Configure Setup • Date • Disk Time-Out • Diskette Drive A • Diskette Drive B • Diskette Reconfig • Display Close • Display Time-out • Docking Ethernet • Docking IRQ • Docking Status • External Hot Key • Hard-disk...
Page 142 NOTE: Dell may periodically offer revisions of the BIOS that add features or solve specific problems. Because the BIOS for your computer is stored on a reprogrammable flash-memory chip, you can use the Flash BIOS Update program to update your computer's BIOS entirely through software.
Page 143 Boot Third Device If the computer cannot find the software it needs to start the operating system on the drive identified in Boot Second device, it will search the device named in Boot Third device. Settings for the option are: None (the default) ...
Page 144 Disk Time-out Disk Time-out lets you determine how long your hard-disk drive remains idle before the drive motor turns off to conserve battery power. NOTE: This feature does not function with the ACPI. The AC option is set to Disabled. No user-selectable settings are available for this option. Settings for the Battery option are: ...
Page 145 Control Panel. Key combinations for power management activities must be configured in the Power Management Properties window. Docking Ethernet Docking Ethernet enables or disables the internal Ethernet controller in the Dell Inspiron 3700 Advanced Port Replicator (APR). A change to this option takes effect when you reboot. Docking IRQ Docking IRQ tells the computer which interrupt request (IRQ) to assign to the docking station or replicator during the boot sequence.
Page 146 Dock Media Bay Password Hard-disk drive password(s) displays the current status of the primary hard-disk drive password and allows you to assign or change this password. You can set a primary password for the system, the system media bay, and the dock media bay. Settings for this option are: Disabled (the default) —...
Page 147 Microprocessor Microprocessor displays the type and speed of the microprocessor installed on your computer's system board. No user-selectable settings are available for this option. Num Lock Num Lock determines if the system boots with the Num Lock enabled or disabled when an external keyboard is attached. Settings for this option are: Disabled (the default) Enabled...
Page 148 All drivers supplied by Dell with your computer are configured to allow the computer to resume normal operation when a modem receives an incoming call. If you use a PC Card that you did not receive from Dell, check the documentation to make sure this feature is set to Enabled.
Page 149 NOTE: Convert the service tag number into an express service code when prompted to do so the first time you turn on the computer (or use the program in the Dell Accessories folder). Keep the code handy in case you call Dell for technical assistance. The code helps Dell's automated support telephone system direct your call more efficiently.
Page 150 The Universal Connect option functions with the Dell Inspiron 3700 APR if the computer uses Windows 98. Set this option to Enabled (the default) if you often use more than one Inspiron 3700 APR and want to minimize the initialization time when you connect the replicator to the computer.
Page 151 Wakeup on LAN Wakeup on LAN enables the computer to power up when triggered by a special local area network (LAN) signal. A change to the Wakeup on LAN option takes effect immediately. Back to Contents Page...
Page 152 Back to Contents Page Technical Specifications: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Microprocessor 14.1-Inch Display Chip Set and Bus Keyboard PC Cards Battery Memory AC Adapter Connectors Physical Audio Environmental (Computer) Video Touch Pad 12.1-Inch Display Track Stick Microprocessor Microprocessor type Intel® Mobile Celeron™ or Pentium® II or III microprocessor Chip Set and Bus...
Page 153 Maximum RAM 512 MB Memory clock speed 100 MHz Memory access time CL2 or CL3 NOTE: CL3 indicates a CAS latency of 3 clocks. BIOS address F000:0000-F000:FFFF Connectors Serial (DTE) 9-pin connector; 16,550-compatible, 16-byte buffer Parallel 25-hole connector; unidirectional, bidirectional, EPP 1.9, or ECP Video 15-hole connector PS/2...
Page 154 Response time (typical) 30-ms rise/20-ms fall Operating angle 0° to 180° Viewing angles: Horizontal ± 45° from center Vertical +10° and -30° from center Dot pitch 0.308 mm (horizontal and vertical) Power consumption: Panel (typical) 0.85 W Backlight 1.89-W minimum to 3.78-W maximum Controls brightness can be controlled through a key combination 14.1-Inch Display Type XGA, active-matrix color (TFT)
Page 155 Depth 88.5 mm (3.48 inches) Width 139.0 mm (5.47 inches) Weight 0.39 kg (0.87 lb) Voltage 14.8 VDC Capacity 53 WH Charge time (approximate): Computer on 2.5 hours Computer off 1 hour 500 discharge/charge cycles Life span (approximate) Temperature range: Charge 0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F) –20° to 60°C (–4° to 140°F) ...
Page 156 Temperature: 0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F) Operating Storage –20° to 60°C (–4° to 140°F) Relative humidity (maximum): Operating 10% to 90% (noncondensing) Storage 5% to 95% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration: Operating 0.9 GRMS using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates user environment Storage 1.3 GRMS using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates air/truck shipment Maximum shock: Operating 152.4 cm/sec (60.0 inches/sec) ...
Page 157 in accordance with IEC-801-2 1 Battery performance features such as charge time and life span can vary according to the conditions under which the computer and battery are used. 2 Weights are shown with a hard-disk drive, a battery in the battery bay, and a travel module, diskette drive, or a CD-ROM drive in the media bay.
Page 158 When Table 1 suggests that you run a Dell Diagnostics test, refer to "Running the Dell Diagnostics" in Chapter 3 of the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide for instructions. When Table 1 suggests that you call Dell for technical assistance, refer to "Contacting Dell"...
Page 159 System Setup Program message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. A cable or connector may be loose, or the Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards test in the Dell Keyboard clock line keyboard may be faulty. failure Diagnostics.
Page 160 (code 1-1-3) means that the computer was unable to read the data in nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM). This information is important to the Dell support staff if you need to call for technical assistance.
Page 161 2. If you are unable to resolve the problem, use the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause. See "Running Dell Diagnostics" in Chapter 3 of the Reference and Troubleshooting Guide. If you are still unable to resolve the problem, call Dell for technical assistance. See Chapter 5, "Getting Help,"...
Page 162 Back to Contents Page Setup and Operation: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference AC Adapter Batteries CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Drives Display Diskette Drive Keyboard PC Cards Media Bay Dell™ DualPoint™ Integrated Pointing Device Securing Your Computer Connecting External Devices I/O Connectors Back to Contents Page...
Page 163 Back to Contents Page Dell™ DualPoint™ Integrated Pointing Device: Dell Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Cursor Pointing Devices • Using the Touch Pad • Using the Track Stick • Customizing the DualPoint Integrated Pointing Device • Changing the Track Stick Cap Cursor Pointing Devices Your Dell portable computer is equipped with the unique Dell DualPoint integrated pointing device. The DualPoint integrated pointing device supports two types of cursor pointing devices (see Figure 1...
Page 164 To best use the track stick, use the following techniques: To move the cursor, apply pressure to the track stick with your right or left index finger. Press up or down to move the cursor to the top or bottom of the display screen. Press left or right to move the cursor to the left or right of the display screen. To select an object, tap once on the track stick or use your thumb to press the left track stick button. The track stick buttons perform standard mouse functions. To select and move (or drag) an object, position the cursor on the object. Then press and hold the left track stick button. Leave your thumb on the button and move the selected object by pressing the track stick in the desired direction. To double-click an object, position the cursor on the object and then tap the left track stick button twice or tap the track stick itself twice. The track stick functions much like the touch pad in that it allows you to use buttons for mouse functions or the pointing device itself. ...
Page 165 Back to Contents Page...
Page 166 If possible, give the name of the investigating officer. The Dell support technician will log your report under the computer’s service tag number and flag the computer as missing or stolen. If someone calls Dell for technical assistance and gives your service tag number, the computer is identified automatically as missing or stolen.
Page 167 6. Make sure that there is nothing on the keyboard and palmrest that can damage the display when you close it. Then close the display. 7. Pack all your computing accessories. With the optional Dell carrying case, you can pack the computer and its accessories together. NOTE: Follow the travel tips and take special precautions if you are planning to travel by air.
Page 168 Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead storage compartment. If you are carrying a second hard-disk drive separately, protect the drive from exposure to static electricity by placing the drive in an antistatic bag or wrapping it in a nonconductive fabric.
Page 169 Back to Contents Page Troubleshooting Your Computer: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3700 System Reference Dell Diagnostics Error Messages and Flash Codes Back to Contents Page...
Page 170 Overview All of your computer’s drivers for Dell-installed devices are operative when you receive the computer. No further installation or configuration is needed. However, if you ever need to reinstall any of these drivers, the driver files are provided on the System Software CD. For instructions on reinstalling a particular driver, see the following subsection that corresponds to that driver.
Page 171 1. If the computer has never been turned on, turn it on now while it is undocked and complete the operating system setup. Then go to step 2. For setup instructions, see the Dell-supplied operating system setup guide that came with your computer.
Page 172 1. If the computer has never been turned on, turn it on now while it is undocked and complete the operating system setup. Then go to step 2. For setup instructions, see the Dell Inspiron Systems Setup Guide that came with the computer.
Page 173 installation. 2. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive. 3. Double-click the My Computer icon. 4. Double-click the CD-ROM drive icon. 5. Double-click the Win98 folder. 6. Double-click the Baymgr folder. 7. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision. 8.
Page 174 7. Copy each of the utilities on the System Software CD to the c:\dell directory on your hard-disk drive. The utilities have the following filenames: mks2d.exe, rms2d.exe, asset.com, and readme.s2d. For more information on copying files, see the documentation that came with the operating system.
Page 175 15. Double-click the 3700help icon to access the system Help. Downloading Help From the Support Web Site To download the system Help from http://support.dell.com, see "Online Documentation" for instructions. Back to Contents Page...
Page 176 Overview All of your computer’s drivers for Dell-installed devices are operative when you receive the computer. No further installation or configuration is needed. However, if you ever need to reinstall any of these drivers, the driver files are provided on the System Software CD. For instructions on reinstalling a particular driver, see the following subsection that corresponds to that driver.
Page 177 Installing Docking Drivers (Optional) NOTE: If your computer uses Windows 98, the computer is already configured to work with the Dell Inspiron 3700 Advanced Port Replicator (APR). To successfully install docking drivers for your computer, you must run the Dock QuickInstall program before you install the docking drivers.
Page 178 3. Click the Start button, and then click Run..The Run dialog box appears. 4. Click the Browse button. 5. Select the appropriate drive for your CD-ROM. 6. Locate the setup.exe file for video drivers. 7. Click OK or press <Enter>. 8. Follow the instructions on your display. 9.
Page 179 1. Insert the System Software CD into the CD-ROM drive. 2. Copy each of the utilities on the System Software CD to the c:\dell directory on your hard-disk drive. The utilities have the following filenames: mks2d.exe, rms2d.exe, asset.com, and readme.s2d.
Page 180 The first time you play a DVD after installing this driver, you may be prompted to change the region setting. Installing the System Help The Dell Inspiron system Help is available on the System Software CD. You can also access it from Dell’s support Web site (http://support.dell.com).
Page 181 6. Double-click the Axx folder, where xx is the video driver revision. 7. Copy each of the utilities on the System Software CD to the c:\dell directory on your hard-disk drive. The utilities have the following filenames: mks2d.exe, rms2d.exe, asset.com, and readme.s2d.
Page 182 9. Click OK. Installing the Power Management Utility Dell provides a power management utility that helps you conserve battery power and view available power levels. To install the power management utility, perform the following steps: 1. Save your work in all open application programs, because you will need to restart your computer at the end of this procedure to complete the installation.
Page 183 10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer. Installing the PC Card Utility Dell provides a PC Card utility that allows you to view and configure settings for your PC Card(s). To install the PC Card utility, perform the following steps: 1.
Page 184 10. After the files are copied to your hard-disk drive, click Finish to restart your computer. Installing the System Help The Dell Inspiron system Help is available on the System Software CD. You can also access it from Dell’s Support Web site (http://support.dell.com).
Page 185 5. Release the right mouse button. 6. Left-click Copy Here. 7. Double-click the 3700help icon to access the system Help. Downloading Help From the Support Web Site To download the system Help from http://support.dell.com, see "Online Documentation" for instructions. Back to Contents Page...

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