Page 4
Trademarks used in this text: Dell , the DELL logo, Inspiron , YOURS IS HERE, WIFi-Catcher, and DellConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel , Pentium , and Celeron are registered trademarks and Core is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop This section provides information about setting up your Inspiron 1525/1526 laptop and connecting peripherals. Before Setting Up Your Computer When positioning your computer, ensure that you allow easy access to a power source, adequate ventilation, and a level surface to place your computer.
Connect the AC Adapter Connect the AC adapter to the computer and then plug it into a wall outlet or surge protector. CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to a power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage.
Setting Up Your Inspiron Laptop Connect the Network Cable Press the Power Button (optional) If you plan to use a wired network connection, plug in the network cable.
Microsoft Windows ® ® Your Dell computer is preconfigured with Microsoft Windows operating system. To set up Windows for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take up to 15 minutes to complete.
Page 11
Setting Up a Wireless Connection Before you can use your wireless Internet connection, you need to connect to your wireless router. To set up your connection to a wireless router: Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. Click Start →...
Page 12
Click either Broadband (PPPoE) or Dial-up, depending on how you want to connect: Choose Broadband if you will use a DSL, satellite modem, cable TV modem, or Bluetooth wireless technology ® connection. Chose Dial-up if you will use an optional USB dial-up modem or ISDN.
Page 13
Click the appropriate option under How do you want to connect to the Internet?, and then click Next. Use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Your Inspiron 1525/1526 has several indicators, buttons, and features that provide information at-a-glance and time-saving shortcuts for common tasks. Device Status Lights The device status lights located at the front left of the computer provide information for wireless communication and keyboard input options.
Page 15
WiFi status light – Turns on when wireless networking is enabled. Use the wireless switch located at the, right side of the computer to quickly turn all wireless communication on and off. Using The Wireless Switch To turn on the wireless switch, slide it away from the front of the computer until it clicks into place.
To turn the switch On, slide the switch away from the front of the computer until it clicks into place. NOTE: This switch can be deactivated through Dell QuickSet or the BIOS (system setup program). Off - Disables wireless devices On - Enables wireless devices...
Page 17
2 Wi-Fi Catcher light - ™ The light operates as follows: Flashing blue: Searching for networks Solid blue: Strong network found Solid yellow: Weak network found Off: No signal found ExpressCard slot – Supports one ExpressCard. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot.
Left Side Features 1 Security cable slot – Used to attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. NOTE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it works with the security cable slot on your computer. AC adapter connector – Connects to the AC adapter to power the computer and charge the battery when the computer is not in use.
Page 19
Modem connector – Connect the telephone line to the modem connector. For information on using the modem, see the online modem documentation supplied with your computer. HDMI connector – HDMI (High- Definition Multimedia Interface) connector carries an uncompressed all digital signal to produce hi-definition video and audio.
2 Touch pad buttons – Provide left- and right-click functions those on like a mouse 3 Consumer IR – Infrared sensor for using the Dell Travel Remote. Audio Out/ Headphone connectors (2) – Connects one pair of headphones, or sends audio to a powered speaker or sound system.
Card (type - M and type - H) Computer Base and Keyboard Features 1 Keyboard – The settings for this keyboard can be personalized by using Dell QuickSet. For more information, see the Dell Technology Guide. 2 Media Controls – Controls CD, DVD, and...
Media Controls To use the media controls, press the button and then release. Play the previous track or chapter Stop Play or pause Play the next track or chapter Mute the sound Turn down the volume Turn up the volume...
5 Display – Your display can vary based on selections you made when purchasing your computer. For more information about displays, see the Dell Technology Guide.
CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. This computer should only use a battery purchased from Dell. Do not use batteries from other computers. CAUTION: Before removing the battery, shut down the computer, and remove external cables (including the AC adapter).
Software Features NOTE: For more information about the features described in this section, see the Dell Technology Guide on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. Productivity and Communication You can use your computer to create presentations, brochures, greeting cards, fliers, and spreadsheets.
Page 26
Customizing the Desktop in Windows XP You can customize your desktop to change the appearance, resolution, wallpaper, screensaver, and so on by accessing the Display Properties window. To access the display properties window: Right-click an open area of the desktop. Click Properties, to open the Display Properties window and learn more about...
Page 27
Backing Up Your Data on Windows Vista It is recommended that you periodically back up files and folders on your computer. To back up files: Click Start → Control Panel→ System and Maintenance→ Welcome Center→ Transfer files and settings. Click Back up files or Back up computer.
If you can not solve your problem using the following guidelines, see “Using Support Tools” on page 33 or “Contacting Dell” on page 50. CAUTION: Only trained service personnel should remove the computer cover. See the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com for advanced...
Page 29
The wireless router is offline or wireless has been disabled on the computer. • Check your wireless router to ensure it is powered on and connected to your data source (cable modem or network hub). • Re-establish your connection to the wireless router: Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
You may have to remove and then reinstall the memory modules (for information on removing and replacing memory modules, see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com).
• See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (See the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com). • Reseat the memory modules (See the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com) to ensure that your...
• Reseat the memory modules (see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory. Lockups and Software Problems If the computer does not start up — Ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet.
Page 33
If a program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating system — ® ® Run the Program Compatibility Wizard. The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows Vista/non-XP operating system environments.
Page 34
– Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly. – Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program. – If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
About Your System (System Documentation, Warranty Information, System Information, Upgrades & Accessories) The top of the Dell Support Center home page displays your system’s model number along with its service tag and express service code. For more information about the Dell Support...
Page 36
“Contacting Dell” on page 50 for assistance. CPU fan failure — CPU fan has failed. Replace the CPU fan. See the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. Hard-disk drive failure — Possible hard disk drive failure during HDD POST see “Contacting...
(see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com). No timer tick interrupt — A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning or motherboard failure (see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com). USB over current error — Disconnect the USB device.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities media. Starting Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
Page 39
Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive. Starting Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media Drivers and Utilities media. Insert the Shut down and restart the computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F12>...
• Dell Factory Image Restore and Dell PC Restore returns your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Both procedures permanently delete all data on the hard drive and remove any programs installed after you received the computer.
Restoring Your Operating System NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view. Starting System Restore in Windows Vista Click...
Dell Factory Image Restore may not be available in certain countries or on certain computers. Use Dell PC Restore only as the last method to restore your operating system. These options restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer.
Page 43
Restore. Using PC Restore: Turn on the computer. During the boot process, a blue bar with www.dell.com appears at the top of the screen. Immediately upon seeing the blue bar, press <Ctrl><F11>. If you do not press <Ctrl><F11> in time, let the computer finish starting, and then restart the computer again.
NOTE: Dell Factory Image Restore may not be available in certain countries or on certain computers. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only as the last method to restore your operating system. These options restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer.
Click Dell Factory Image Restore. The Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen appears. NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select Dell Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore. Click Next. The Confirm Data Deletion screen appears. NOTICE: If you do not want to proceed with Factory Image Restore, click Cancel.
Page 46
NOTE: The Dell Drivers and Utilities media contains drivers that were installed during the assembly of the computer. Use the Dell Drivers and Utilities media to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from which you ordered your computer, or...
Dell Support (support.dell.com) for help with installation and troubleshooting procedures. See “Online Services” on page 46 for a more extensive list of Dell Support online. If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see “Contacting Dell” on page 50.
DellConnect ™ DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and support associate to access your computer through a broadband connection, diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision. For more information, go to support.dell.com and click DellConnect.
“Contacting Dell” on page 50. Automated Order-Status Service To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service.
Product Information If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For the telephone number to call for your region or to speak to a sales specialist, see “Contacting Dell”...
Remember to fill out the following Diagnostics Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard,...
Dell provides several online and telephone- based support and service options. Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues: Visit support.dell.com.
™ at support.dell.com. the Dell Technology Guide installed on your hard drive. the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. NOTE: In some countries, opening and replacing parts of your computer may void your warranty. Check your warranty and return policies before working inside your computer.
Page 55
Regulatory information, Ergonomics information, and End User License Agreement. find your Service tag/Express Service Code— You must use the service tag to identify your computer on support.dell.com or to contact technical support. find drivers and downloads. access technical support and product help.
For more detailed specifications, see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, click Start →...
Page 57
Maximum memory 4 GB NOTE: For instructions on upgrading your memory, see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com. NOTE: In order to take advantage of the dual channel bandwidth capability, both memory slots must be populated and...
Page 58
Computer Information System Chipset AMD M690T Chipset with ATI X1270 Graphics Mobile Intel Express GM 965 Data bus width 64 bits DRAM bus width dual channel (2) 64-bit buses Processor address 36 bits (Intel) and bus width 32 bits (AMD) Flash EPROM 2 MB PCI Bus...
Page 59
Video video controller ATI Radeon Graphics Controller (AMD) Intel 965 GM (Intel) video memory dynamic based on system memory capacity LCD interface LVDS TV support NTSC or PAL in S-video, composite, and component modes Camera (optional) X1270 ® Pixel Video resolution Diagonal viewing angle Audio...
Page 60
Audio Speaker two 4-ohm speakers Internal speaker 1 Watt per channel amplifier into 4 ohms Volume controls program menus, media control buttons Ports and Connectors Network adapter RJ-45 port Modem Connector RJ-11 port S-video TV-out 7-pin mini-DIN connector (optional S-video to composite video adapter cable) four 4-pin USB 2.0- compliant connectors...
Page 61
Display Maximum resolution 1280 x 800 at 262 K colors (WXGA and WXGA with TrueLife), 1440 x 900 at 262 K colors (WXGA+ with TrueLife), 1680 x 1050 at 262 K colors (WSXGA+with TrueLife) Refresh rate 60 Hz Operating angle 0°...
Page 62
WXGA with TrueLife) 0.2304 mm (WXGA+ with TrueLife) 0.197 mm (WSXGA+with TrueLife) Controls brightness can be controlled through keyboard shortcuts (see Dell Technology Guide for more information.) Keyboard Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe); 91 (Japan) Layout QWERTY/AZERTY/...
Page 63
Battery Operating time Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions and can be significantly reduced under certain power- intensive conditions. See Dell Technology Guide for more information. Life span 300 discharge/charge (approximate) cycles Temperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage 40°...
Page 64
AC Adapter Input voltage 100–240 VAC Input current 1.5 A/1.6 A (maximum) Input frequency 50–60 Hz Output power 65 W or 90 W Ouput current (65 W) 3.34 A (continuous) 4.34 A (peak for 4-second pulse) Rated output voltage 19.5 ± 1 VDC Dimensions: Height 28.2 mm (1.11 in)
Page 65
Computer Environment Temperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage 40° to 65°C ( – 149°F) Relative humidity (maximum): Operating 10% to 90% (noncondensing) Storage 5% to 90% (noncondensing) Maximum vibration (using a random-vibration spectrum that simulates user environment): Operating 0.66 GRMS Computer Environment...
Internet 8 conserving energy 24 Contacting Dell online 50 customer service 45 customizing your desktop 23 your energy settings 24 damage, avoiding 5 data, backing up 25 DellConnect 46 Dell Diagnostics 36 Dell Factory Image Restore 38 Dell Support Center 33...
Page 67
Dell support website 53 Dell Technology Guide for further information 52 Diagnostic Checklist 49 drivers and downloads 53 DVDs, playing and creating 23 email addresses for technical support 47 energy conserving 24 expansion bus 56 finding more information 52 FTP login, anonymous 47...
Page 68
network connection fixing 27 network speed testing 27 order status 47 power problems, solving 28 power strips, using 6 problems, solving 26 processor 54 products information and purchasing 48 reinstalling Windows 38 resources, finding more 52 restoring factory image 42 setup, before you begin 5 shipping products for return or repair 48...
Page 69
System Messages 33 system reinstall options 39 System Restore 38 technical support 45 ventilation, ensuring 5 warranty returns 48 Windows, reinstalling 38 Windows Vista ® Program Compatibility Wizard 31 reinstalling 44 setup 8 Windows XP 31 wired network network cable, connecting 7 wireless network connection 26 wireless switch 6, 13, 26...
Page 72
Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.com...
Page 74
Printed in Malaysia. www.dell.com | support.dell.com...
Page 76
Printed in China. Printed on recycled paper. www.dell.com | support.dell.com...
Page 78
Printed in Ireland. www.dell.com | support.dell.com...
Page 80
Printed in Brazil. www.dell.com | support.dell.com...