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Dell Dimension C521 Owner's Manual
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Dell Dimension C521 Owner's Manual

Dell dimension c521: owners manual
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See also: Service Manual
FlexBay for optional
floppy drive or Media
Card Reader
headphone connector
microphone connector
diagnostic lights
cover release latch
card slots for
PCI (1),
PCI Express x1 (1)
PCI Express x16 (1)
Model DCNE
w w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m
Dell™ Dimension™ C521
Owner's Manual
Service Tag
CD or DVD activity light
CD or DVD eject button
USB 2.0 connectors (2)
hard drive activity light
power button
power connector
audio connectors
USB 2.0 connectors (4)
network adapter
VGA video connector (integrated)

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Summary of Contents for Dell Dimension C521

  • Page 1 Dell™ Dimension™ C521 FlexBay for optional floppy drive or Media Card Reader headphone connector microphone connector diagnostic lights cover release latch card slots for PCI (1), PCI Express x1 (1) PCI Express x16 (1) Model DCNE w w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 2: Abbreviations And Acronyms

    Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, PowerVault, PowerApp, XPS, Dell TravelLite, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. AMD, AMD Athlon, and combinations thereof, and Cool ’n’ Quiet are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc;...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Finding Information Setting Up and Using Your Computer Front View of the Computer Back View of the Computer Back Panel I/O Connectors Setting Up a Printer Printer Cable ....... . Connecting a USB Printer Connecting to the Internet Setting Up Your Internet Connection...
  • Page 4 Solving Problems Troubleshooting Tips Battery Problems ....... . . Drive Problems .
  • Page 5 Restoring Your Operating System ® Using Microsoft Windows Using Dell™ PC Restore by Symantec Removing Dell PC Restore Removing and Installing Parts Before You Begin ....... . .
  • Page 6 Power Cable Connector Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables Hard Drive ........Removing a Hard Drive Installing a Hard Drive Floppy Drive...
  • Page 7 Dell Hardware Warranty Support Policy (U.S. Only) Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals FCC Notice (U.S. Only) ......
  • Page 8 Contents...

  • Page 9: Finding Information

    Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see "Reinstalling Drivers" on page 53), to run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50), or to access your documentation.
  • Page 10 These labels are located on your computer (see "Front View of the Computer" on page 13). • Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use support.dell.com or contact support. • Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting support. ®...
  • Page 11 • Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, online courses, and frequently asked questions • Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers • Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as the memory, hard drive, and operating system •...
  • Page 12 What Are You Looking For? • How to reinstall my operating system Finding Information Find It Here Operating System CD NOTE: The Operating System CD may be optional and may not ship with your computer. The operating system is already installed on your computer. To reinstall your operating system, use the Operating System CD (see "Restoring Your Operating System"...

  • Page 13: Setting Up And Using Your Computer

    Service Tag Use this latch to remove the cover (see "Front View of the Computer" on page 13). Use to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call support. Setting Up and Using Your Computer...
  • Page 14 FlexBay drive CD or DVD activity light CD or DVD eject button microphone connector headphone connector diagnostic lights (4) USB 2.0 connectors (2) power button hard-drive activity light vents Setting Up and Using Your Computer Can contain an optional floppy drive or optional Media Card Reader.

  • Page 15: Back View Of The Computer

    Back View of the Computer voltage selection switch power connector back panel I/O connectors card slots (3) See the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide for more information. Insert the power cable. Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connectors (see "Back Panel I/O Connectors"...

  • Page 16: Back Panel I/O Connectors

    Back Panel I/O Connectors link integrity light network adapter connector network activity light surround sound connector line-in connector Setting Up and Using Your Computer • Green — A good connection exists between a 10-Mbps network and the computer. • Orange — A good connection exists between a 100-Mbps network and the computer.

  • Page 17: Setting Up A Printer

    line-out/headphone Use the (green) line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with connector integrated amplifiers. On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card. microphone connector Use the (pink) microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

  • Page 18: Connecting A Usb Printer

    Connecting a USB Printer NOTE: You can connect USB devices while the computer is turned on. 1 Complete the operating system setup, if you have not already done so. 2 Attach the USB printer cable to the USB connectors on the computer and the printer. The USB connectors only fit into the ports when correctly oriented.

  • Page 19: Setting Up Your Internet Connection

    2 Double-click the ISP icon on the Microsoft 3 Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. If you do not have an ISP icon on your desktop or if you want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP: 1 Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.

  • Page 20: Playing Cds And Dvds

    Playing CDs and DVDs NOTICE: Do not press down on the CD or DVD tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer when you are playing CDs or DVDs. 1 Press the eject button on the front of the drive.

  • Page 21: Adjusting The Volume

    Go to the previous track Eject Go to the next track A DVD player includes the following basic buttons: Stop Restart the current chapter Play Fast forward Pause Fast reverse Advance a single frame while in pause mode Go to the next title or chapter Continuously play the current title or chapter Go to the previous title or chapter Eject...

  • Page 22: Adjusting The Picture

    The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD using Roxio Creator Plus - Dell Edition. You can also use Roxio Creator Plus for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Roxio Creator Plus, and then click the question mark icon in the upper-right corner of the window.

  • Page 23: Using Blank Cds And Dvds

    If you have two CD/DVD drives, select the drive into which you have inserted your source CD or • DVD, and then click Disc Copy. The computer copies the data from the source CD or DVD to the blank CD or DVD. Once you have finished copying the source CD or DVD, the CD or DVD that you have created automatically ejects.

  • Page 24: Using A Media Card Reader (Optional)

    • Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs may not play in many home or car stereos. • You cannot create audio DVDs with Roxio Creator Plus. • Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed. •...
  • Page 25 xD-Picture Card and SmartMedia (SMC) CompactFlash Type-I and II (CF I/II) and MicroDrive Card To use the Media Card Reader: 1 Check the media or card to determine the proper orientation for insertion. 2 Slide the media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector. If you encounter resistance, do not force the media or card.

  • Page 26: Setting Up A Home And Office Network

    Setting Up a Home and Office Network Connecting to a Network Adapter NOTICE: Plug the network cable into the network adapter connector on the computer. Do not plug the network cable into the modem connector on the computer. NOTICE: Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack. 1 Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.

  • Page 27: Network Setup Wizard

    When the computer exits from a power conservation mode, the Windows desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode.

  • Page 28: Hibernate Mode

    Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory, Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you. If the computer’s hard drive becomes corrupted, Windows XP recreates the hibernate file automatically.

  • Page 29: Advanced Tab

    The Power schemes drop-down menu displays the following schemes: • Always On (default) — If you want to use your computer with no power conservation. • Home/Office Desk — If you use your computer as a home or office computer and you require minimal power conservation.

  • Page 30: Enabling Cool 'N' Quiet™ Technology

    Enabling Cool ’n’ Quiet™ Technology The Cool ’n’ Quiet technology controls your computer’s processor performance automatically, dynamically adjusting the operating frequency and voltage, according to the task at hand. When an application does not require full performance, significant amounts of power can be saved. Performance is designed to still be responsive, with maximum processor performance being delivered when required, and automatic power savings when possible.

  • Page 31: Solving Problems

    — If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see "Battery" on page 89). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 108). Drive Problems...

  • Page 32: Cd And Dvd Drive Problems

    If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the CD/DVD-RW. Solving Problems — See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities" — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50. — — See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 43.

  • Page 33: Hard Drive Problems

    U R N O F F T A N D B Y M O D E I N Click the Start button and click Control Panel. Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance. Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Power Options. From the Power Schemes tab, select Always On.

  • Page 34: Error Messages

    H E C K T H E T E L E P H O N E L I N E C O N N E C T I O N H E C K T H E T E L E P H O N E J A C K O N N E C T T H E M O D E M D I R E C T L Y T O T H E T E L E P H O N E W A L L J A C K S E A D I F F E R E N T T E L E P H O N E L I N E •...

  • Page 35: Keyboard Problems

    — The drive cannot read the disk. L O S E S O M E P R O G R A M S A N D T R Y A G A I N — Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 108). — Close all...

  • Page 36: Lockups And Software Problems

    U N T H E A R D W A R E R O U B L E S H O O T E R on page 54. Lockups and Software Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

  • Page 37: A Program Is Designed For An Earlier Windows Operating System

    A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system U N T H E R O G R A M O M P A T I B I L I T Y The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so it runs in an environment similar to non- Windows XP operating system environments.

  • Page 38: Media Card Reader Problems

    (see "Memory" on page 64). • Reseat the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 64) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory. • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50). Solving Problems —...

  • Page 39: Mouse Problems

    • Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines (see "Memory" on page 64). • Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" on page 64. • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50). Mouse Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

  • Page 40: Network Problems

    Network Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. H E C K T H E N E T W O R K C A B L E C O N N E C T O R both the network connector on the back of the computer and the network port or device.

  • Page 41: Printer Problems

    F T H E P O W E R L I G H T I S O F F — The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power. • Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.

  • Page 42: Scanner Problems

    H E C K T H E P R I N T E R C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N S • See the printer documentation for cable connection information. • Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer (see "Setting Up a Printer"...

  • Page 43: Sound And Speaker Problems

    E R I F Y T H A T T H E S C A N N E R I S R E C O G N I Z E D B Y Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware. Click Scanners and Cameras.

  • Page 44: No Sound From Headphones

    L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E check for interference. E I N S T A L L T H E S O U N D D R I V E R U N T H E A R D W A R E R O U B L E S H O O T E R...

  • Page 45: The Screen Is Difficult To Read

    H E C K T H E M O N I T O R P O W E R L I G H T the monitor is turned on. If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power. If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse.
  • Page 46 Solving Problems...

  • Page 47: Advanced Troubleshooting

    See "Diagnostic Lights" on page 48 for more information. If this does not resolve your problem, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 108). Plug the computer into a working electrical outlet. Also see "Power Problems" on page 40.

  • Page 48: Diagnostic Lights

    The computer is in a normal condition or a possible pre-POST failure has occurred. The computer is in recovery mode. A possible processor failure was detected. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on Memory modules are detected, but a memory failure has occurred.
  • Page 49 • If available, install properly working memory of the same type into your computer (see "Memory" on page 64). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 108). • Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements exist (see "Memory"...

  • Page 50: Dell Diagnostics

    59) and try again. 3 When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition, then press <Enter>. 4 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see "Dell Diagnostics Main Menu" on page 51).

  • Page 51: Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

    If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell, technical support will ask for your Service Tag. 3 If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab described in the following table for more information.

  • Page 52: Drivers

    Configuration Parameters 4 Close the test screen to return to the Main Menu screen. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the computer, close the Main Menu screen. Drivers What Is a Driver? A driver is a program that controls a device such as a printer, mouse, or keyboard. All devices require a driver program.

  • Page 53: Reinstalling Drivers

    Reinstalling Drivers NOTICE: The Dell Support website at support.dell.com provides approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly. Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows XP Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version.

  • Page 54: Resolving Software And Hardware Incompatibilities

    • Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications installed after you received the computer.
  • Page 55 Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see "Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback" on page 53) to resolve the problem. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.

  • Page 56: Using Dell™ Pc Restore By Symantec

    Dell PC Restore is not available in all countries. Use Dell PC Restore by Symantec only as the last method to restore your operating system. PC Restore restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Any programs or files added since you received your computer drive.

  • Page 57: Removing Dell Pc Restore

    NOTICE: Removing Dell PC Restore from the hard drive permanently deletes the PC Restore utility from your computer. After you have removed Dell PC Restore, you will not be able to use it to restore your computer’s operating system. Dell PC Restore enables you to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased your computer.
  • Page 58 Advanced Troubleshooting...

  • Page 59: Removing And Installing Parts

    You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 60. • You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide. NOTE: Unless otherwise noted, a component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.

  • Page 60: Before Working Inside Your Computer

    To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59. NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the removed cover—at least 30 cm (1 ft) of desktop space. Removing and Installing Parts...
  • Page 61 NOTICE: Work on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the computer or the surface on which it rests. 2 If you have installed a padlock through the padlock ring on the back panel, remove the padlock. 3 Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up. NOTICE: Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not accidentally disconnect cables from the system board.

  • Page 62: Inside View Of Your Computer

    Inside View of Your Computer CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To avoid electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the computer cover.

  • Page 63: System Board Components

    System Board Components Removing and Installing Parts...

  • Page 64: Memory

    fan connector(FAN_CPU1) memory module connectors (DIMM_1, DIMM_2, DIMM_3, DIMM_4) front-panel connector (FRONTPANEL) 10 internal USB (USB1) 13 PCI connector (SLOT3) Memory If your computer only has one memory module installed on the system board, you can increase your computer memory by installing an additional memory module. Your computer supports DDR2 memory.

  • Page 65: Installing Memory

    If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly.
  • Page 66 NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59. 2 Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
  • Page 67 3 Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector. cutouts (2) crossbar NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector while you apply equal force to each end of the module. 4 Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.

  • Page 68: Removing Memory

    You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis. Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards: • One low-profile PCI card slot •...
  • Page 69 PCI Express x1 card PCI Express x1 card slot If you are installing or replacing an expansion card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing and not replacing an expansion card, see "Removing an Expansion Card" on page 73. If you are replacing a card with a different type of card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
  • Page 70 release tab 4 If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector. 5 Prepare the card for installation.
  • Page 71 bracket within slot alignment guide 7 Before you close the card retention door, ensure that: • The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar. • The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide. bracket caught outside of slot 3 fully seated card alignment bar...
  • Page 72 release tab alignment guide 8 Close the card retention door by snapping it into place. NOTICE: Do not route card cables over the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment. 9 Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
  • Page 73 12 If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter: Enter system setup, select Integrated NIC from the Onboard Devices group, and change the setting to Off (see "System Setup Options" on page 98). Connect the network cable to the network adapter card’s connectors.
  • Page 74 6 If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening. NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer. 7 Before you close the card retention door, ensure that: •...

  • Page 75: Drives

    Drives Your computer supports a combination of these devices: • One serial ATA hard drive • One optional floppy drive or Media Card Reader • One CD or DVD drive DVD drive General Installation Guidelines Connect the SATA hard drive to the connector labeled "SATA0." Connect the SATA CD or DVD drives to the connector labeled "SATA1"...

  • Page 76: Drive Interface Connectors

    Drive Interface Connectors Serial ATA Connector interface cable Power Cable Connector power cable Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables When removing a serial ATA data cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector detaches. When connecting a serial ATA data cable, hold the cable by the black connector at each end. Removing and Installing Parts interface connector power input connector...

  • Page 77: Hard Drive

    Hard Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover. NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface.

  • Page 78: Installing A Hard Drive

    securing clips (2) hard drive Installing a Hard Drive 1 Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer. NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
  • Page 79 3 If your replacement hard drive does not have the plastic hard-drive bracket attached, remove the bracket from the existing drive by unsnapping it from the drive. hard drive 4 Attach the bracket to the new drive by aligning the two securing tabs with the mounting holes in the hard drive and then rotating the drive down snapping it onto the bracket.
  • Page 80 5 Connect the power and data cables to the drive. 6 Locate the correct guidance-slot for the drive (slot 1) and align the release tabs with the alignment guides. hard drive 7 Slide the drive into the bay until it clicks into place. 8 Replace any drives or readers that you removed.

  • Page 81: Floppy Drive

    16 Test the hard drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 50). 17 Install your operating system on the hard drive. For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system Floppy Drive CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

  • Page 82: Installing A Floppy Drive

    4 Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive. 5 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

  • Page 83: Media Card Reader

    6 Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive. 7 Locate the correct guidance-slot for the drive (slot 2) and align the shoulder screws with the screw guides. floppy drive 8 Slide the drive into the bay until it clicks into place. 9 Connect the data cable to the connector labeled "FLOPPY"...

  • Page 84: Removing A Media Card Reader

    Removing a Media Card Reader CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components.

  • Page 85: Installing A Media Card Reader

    NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer. 6 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on. Installing a Media Card Reader CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

  • Page 86: Cd/Dvd Drive

    6 Locate the correct guidance-slot for the Media Card Reader (slot 2) and align the shoulder screws with the screw guides. Media Card Reader 7 Slide the Media Card Reader into the bay until it clicks into place. 8 Connect the power and data cables to the back of the Media Card Reader. 9 Connect the data cable to the USB connector on the system board (see "System Board Components"...

  • Page 87: Removing A Cd/Dvd Drive

    Removing a CD/DVD Drive 1 Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 59. NOTICE: Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables. Doing so may cause damage to the cables and the cable connectors. 2 Pull up on the drive release latch and slide the drive towards the back of the computer.
  • Page 88 3 If you are installing a new drive: Press the two snaps on the top of the drive-panel insert and rotate the insert toward the front of the computer. Remove it from the computer. Remove the three shoulder screws from the drive-panel insert. 4 If you are replacing an existing drive: Remove the existing drive.

  • Page 89: Battery

    9 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer. 10 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on. Battery Replacing the Battery CAUTION:...

  • Page 90: Replacing The Computer Cover

    5 Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up, and snap the battery into place. battery 6 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90). NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.
  • Page 91 3 To replace the cover: Align the bottom of the cover with the hinge tabs located along the bottom edge of the computer. Using the hinge tabs as leverage, rotate the cover downward to close it. Press the cover down until it snaps into place. Ensure that the cover is seated correctly before moving the computer.
  • Page 92 Removing and Installing Parts...

  • Page 93: Appendix

    Appendix Specifications Microprocessor Microprocessor type Internal L2 cache Memory Type Memory connectors Memory modules supported Minimum memory Maximum memory Computer Information Chipset DMA channels Interrupt levels BIOS chip (NVRAM) Video Type ™ AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual-Core processor AMD Athlon 64 ™...
  • Page 94 Audio Type Controllers Drives Expansion Bus Bus type Bus speed Cards connectors card size connector size connector data width (maximum) PCI Express: connectors power connector size connector data width (maximum) Drives Externally accessible Available devices Internally accessible Appendix Sigma Tel 9227 CODEC (7.1 Channel Audio) two SATA controllers supporting two devices PCI 2.3 PCI Express 1.0A...
  • Page 95 Connectors External connectors: Video Network adapter Audio System board connectors: SATA Floppy drive PCI 2.3 PCIe-x1 PCIe-x16 Internal USB Speaker Memory modules Power 12V Power Battery Controls and Lights Power control Power light Hard-drive access light Link light Link integrity light (on integrated network adapter) 15-hole VGA connector RJ45 connector...
  • Page 96 Controls and Lights Activity light (on integrated network adapter) Diagnostic lights Standby power light Power DC power supply: Wattage Heat dissipation Voltage Backup battery Physical Height Width Depth Weight Environmental Temperature: Operating Storage Relative humidity Maximum vibration: Operating Storage Maximum shock: Operating Storage Appendix...

  • Page 97: System Setup

    Entering System Setup 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer. 2 When the blue DELL™ logo is displayed, you must watch for the F2 prompt to appear. 3 Once this F2 prompt appears, press <F2> immediately. NOTE: The F2 prompt indicates that the keyboard has initialized.

  • Page 98: System Setup Options

    Options List — This Option Field — This field contains information about each field appears on the left option. In this field you can view your current settings and side of the system setup make changes to your settings. window. The field is a Use the right- and left-arrow keys to highlight an option.
  • Page 99 Drives This option enables or disables the floppy drive. The options are Off, USB, Internal, Diskette Drive and Read Only. (Internal default) NOTE: Devices is set to On. Identifies and enables and disables the drives attached to the SATA connectors on the Drive 0: (SATA-0) system board and lists the capacities for the hard drives.
  • Page 100 Video This setting specifies which video controller is primary when there is two video Primary Video controllers availble (PCI, Onboard, Auto, and PEG). This selection only matters when (Auto default) if there are two video controllers present. When Auto is selected, the add-in video controller will be used.
  • Page 101 Power Management Determines how the system responds when AC power is re-applied after a power loss. AC Recovery Off commands the system to stay off when the power is re-applied. You must press the (Off default) front-panel power button before the system turns on. On commands the system to turn on when the power is re-applied.

  • Page 102: Boot Menu

    POST Behavior When enabled, this feature reduces computer startup time by bypassing some Fastboot compatibility steps. Off does not skip any steps during computer startup. On starts the (On default) system more quickly. Determines the functionality of the numeric keys on the right side of your keyboard. Numlock Key Off commands the right keypad keys to function as arrows.
  • Page 103 <F12>. If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop, then shut down your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 59) and try again. 4 Press <F1> to continue.

  • Page 104: Clearing Forgotten Passwords And Cmos Settings

    9 Locate the 2-pin password jumper (PSWD) on the system board and attach the jumper to pin 1 to reenable the password feature. 10 Replace the computer cover (see "Replacing the Computer Cover" on page 90). Appendix ® desktop appears on your computer, shut down the computer (see...

  • Page 105: Clearing Cmos Settings

    NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer. 11 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on. Clearing CMOS Settings CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

  • Page 106: Mouse

    Mouse NOTICE: Disconnect the mouse from the computer before cleaning the mouse If your screen cursor skips or moves abnormally, clean the mouse. Cleaning a Non-Optical Mouse 1 Clean the outside casing of the mouse with a cloth moistened with a mild cleaning solution. 2 Turn the retainer ring on the underside of your mouse counterclockwise, and then remove the ball.

  • Page 107: Dell Hardware Warranty Support Policy (U.s. Only)

    All Dell-standard components included in a Custom Factory Integration (CFI) project are covered by the standard Dell lim- ited warranty for your computer. However, Dell also extends a parts replacement program to cover all nonstandard, third- party hardware components integrated through CFI for the duration of the computer’s service contract.

  • Page 108: Contacting Dell

    2 This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. NOTICE: The FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell Inc. could void your authority to operate this equipment. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
  • Page 109 In certain countries, support specific to Dell XPS™ portable computers is available at a separate telephone number listed for participating countries. If you do not see a telephone number listed that is specific for XPS portable computers, you may contact Dell through the support number listed and your call will be routed appropriately.
  • Page 110 Country Code: 43 Home/Small Business Sales City Code: 1 Home/Small Business Fax Home/Small Business Customer Care Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care Support for XPS portable computers only Home/Small Business Support for all other Dell computers Preferred Accounts/Corporate Support Switchboard Bahamas General Support Barbados...
  • Page 111 Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia) Country Code: 673 Customer Care (Penang, Malaysia) Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia) Canada (North York, Ontario) Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus International Access Code: 011 AutoTech (automated Hardware and Warranty Support) Customer Service (Home Sales/Small Business) Customer Service (med./large business,...
  • Page 112 Country Code: 86 Technical Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.com City Code: 592 Customer Care E-mail: customer_cn@dell.com Technical Support Fax Technical Support (Dell™ Dimension™ and Inspiron) Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell Precision™) Technical Support (servers and storage) Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, switches,...
  • Page 113 Denmark (Copenhagen) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Technical Support for XPS portable computers only Country Code: 45 Technical Support for all other Dell computers Customer Care (Relational) Home/Small Business Customer Care Switchboard (Relational) Switchboard Fax (Relational) Switchboard (Home/Small Business)
  • Page 114 International Access Code: 00 Home and Small Business Country Code: 33 Technical Support for XPS portable computers only City Codes: (1) (4) Technical Support for all other Dell computers Customer Care Switchboard Switchboard (calls from outside of France) Sales Fax (calls from outside of France)
  • Page 115 Hong Kong Website: support.ap.dell.com International Access Code: 001 Technical Support E-mail: HK_support@Dell.com Country Code: 852 Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron) Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision) Technical Support (PowerApp™, PowerEdge™, PowerConnect™, and PowerVault™) Customer Care Large Corporate Accounts Global Customer Programs...
  • Page 116 E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com Country Code: 353 Technical Support for XPS portable computers only City Code: 1 Technical Support for all other Dell computers U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only) Home User Customer Care Small Business Customer Care U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only) Corporate Customer Care Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K.
  • Page 117 Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron) Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and Inspiron) Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) Technical Support (PDAs, projectors, printers, routers) Technical Support outside of Japan (PDAs,...
  • Page 118 Country Code: 853 Customer Service (Xiamen, China) Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China) Malaysia (Penang) Website: support.ap.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and Latitude) Country Code: 60 Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and City Code: 4 Electronics and Accessories)
  • Page 119 Netherlands (Amsterdam) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Technical Support for XPS portable computers only Country Code: 31 Technical Support for all other Dell computers City Code: 20 Technical Support Fax Home/Small Business Customer Care Relational Customer Care Home/Small Business Sales...
  • Page 120 City Code Norway (Lysaker) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Technical Support for XPS portable computers only Country Code: 47 Technical Support for all other Dell products Relational Customer Care Home/Small Business Customer Care Switchboard Fax Switchboard Panama General Support...
  • Page 121 City Code Singapore (Singapore) Website: support.ap.dell.com International Access Code: 005 Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and Electronics and Accessories) Country Code: 65 Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision) Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) Customer Care Transaction Sales Corporate Sales Slovakia (Prague) Website: support.euro.dell.com...
  • Page 122 Sweden (Upplands Vasby) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Technical Support for XPS portable computers only Country Code: 46 Technical Support for all other Dell products City Code: 8 Relational Customer Care Home/Small Business Customer Care Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support...
  • Page 123 Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) Customer Care Transaction Sales Corporate Sales Thailand Website: support.ap.dell.com International Access Code: 001 Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell Precision) Country Code: 66 Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and PowerVault) Customer Care Corporate Sales Transaction Sales...
  • Page 124 Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code U.K. (Bracknell) Website: support.euro.dell.com International Access Code: 00 Customer Care website: support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/Form/Home.asp Country Code: 44 E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com City Code: 1344 Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees]) Technical Support for XPS portable computers only...
  • Page 125 Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers Dell Sales Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers) Software and Peripherals Sales Spare Parts Sales Extended Service and Warranty Sales Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or Speech-Impaired U.S. Virgin Islands General Support Venezuela General Support...
  • Page 126 Appendix...

  • Page 127: Glossary

    Glossary Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer. AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet.
  • Page 128 C — Celsius — A temperature measurement scale where 0° is the freezing point and 100° is the boiling point of water. cache — A special high-speed storage mechanism which can be either a reserved section of main memory or an independent high-speed storage device.
  • Page 129 PCI Express and USB 2.0 standard. Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™ computer. Use the Express Service Code when contacting Dell for assistance. Express Service Code service may not be available in some countries.
  • Page 130 Fahrenheit — A temperature measurement scale where 32° is the freezing point and 212° is the boiling point of water. FBD — fully-buffered DIMM — A DIMM with DDR2 DRAM chips and an Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) that speeds communication between the DDR2 SDRAM chips and the system.
  • Page 131 — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™ module. memory — A temporary data storage area inside your computer. Because the data in memory is not permanent,...
  • Page 132 memory address — A specific location where data is temporarily stored in RAM. memory mapping — The process by which the computer assigns memory addresses to physical locations at start-up. Devices and software can then identify information that the processor can access. memory module —...
  • Page 133 PIO — programmed input/output — A method of transferring data between two devices through the processor as part of the data path. pixel — A single point on a display screen. Pixels are arranged in rows and columns to create an image. A video resolution, such as 800 x 600, is expressed as the number of pixels across by the number of pixels up and down.
  • Page 134 Service Tag — A bar code label on your computer that identifies your computer when you access Dell Support at support.dell.com or when you call Dell for customer service or technical support.
  • Page 135 TAPI — telephony application programming interface — Enables Windows programs to operate with a wide variety of telephony devices, including voice, data, fax, and video. text editor — A program used to create and edit files that contain only text; for example, Windows Notepad uses a text editor.
  • Page 136 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for 1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours. wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in your favorite picture and make it wallpaper.

  • Page 137: Index

    23 how to, 22 cover removing, 60 replacing, 90 Dell contacting, 108 support policy, 107 Dell Diagnostics, 50 Dell support site, 11 diagnostic lights, 47 diagnostics Dell, 50 lights, 14, 47 documentation End User License Agreement, 9 ergonomics, 9...
  • Page 138 Flex Bay drive Media Card Reader, 14 floppy drive removing, 81 hard drive activity light, 14 problems, 33 hardware Dell Diagnostics, 50 Hardware Troubleshooter, 54 headphone connector, 14 Help and Support Center, 11 Index help file Windows Help and Support...
  • Page 139 31 blue screen, 37 CD drive, 32 CD-RW drive, 32 computer crashes, 36-37 computer stops responding, 36 Dell Diagnostics, 50 diagnostic lights, 47 drives, 31 DVD drive, 32 e-mail, 33 error messages, 34 general, 36 hard drive, 33...
  • Page 140 43 volume, 43 specifications technical, 93 standby mode, 27 support contacting Dell, 108 policy, 107 support website, 11 system board, 63 System Restore, 54 system setup about, 97 entering, 97 options, 98 screens, 97 technical support policy, 107...

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