Dell OptiPlex 320: instruction

Dell™ OptiPlex™ 320

Quick Reference Guide

Models DCSM, DCNE

www.dell.com | support.dell.com

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the

problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

®

®

If you purchased a Dell™ n Series computer, any references in this document to Microsoft

Windows

operating systems are not applicable.

____________________

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.

© 2006 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, OptiPlex, and the DELL logo are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks

of Microsoft Corporation; Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.

Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Models DCSM, DCNE

September 2006 P/N GK385 Rev. A01

Contents

Finding Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Setting Up Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

System Views

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Mini Tower Computer — Front View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Mini Tower Computer — Back View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Mini Tower Computer — Back-Panel Connectors

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Desktop Computer — Front View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Desktop Computer — Back View

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Desktop Computer — Back-Panel Connectors

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Removing the Computer Cover

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Before You Begin

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Mini Tower Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Desktop Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Inside Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Mini Tower Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Desktop Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Solving Problems

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Dell Diagnostics

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

System Lights

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Diagnostic Lights

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Beep Codes

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

. . . . . . . . . . . 38

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Using the Drivers and Utilities CD

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Contents 3

4 Contents

Finding Information

NOTE: Some features or media may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features or media may

not be available in certain countries.

NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• A diagnostic program for my computer

Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as ResourceCD)

• Drivers for my computer

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may be optional and may

• My computer documentation

not ship with your computer.

• My device documentation

Documentation and drivers are already installed on your

• Desktop System Software (DSS)

computer. You can use the CD to reinstall drivers (see

"Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" in your online User’s

Guide), to run the Dell Diagnostics (see "Dell Diagnostics"

on page 30), or to access your documentation.

Readme files may be

included on your CD to

provide the most current

updates about technical

changes to your computer

or advanced technical-

reference material for

technicians or experienced

users.

NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found at

support.dell.com.

• Warranty information

Dell™ Product Information Guide

• Terms and Conditions (U.S. only)

• Safety instructions

• Regulatory information

• Ergonomics information

• End User License Agreement

Quick Reference Guide 5

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• How to remove and replace parts

Dell™ OptiPlex™ User’s Guide

• Specifications

Microsoft Windows XP Help and Support Center

• How to configure system settings

1

Click

Start

→

Help and Support

→

Dell User and System

• How to troubleshoot and solve problems

Guides

→

System Guides

.

2

Click the

User’s Guide

for your computer.

The User’s Guide is also available on the optional Drivers

and Utilities CD.

®

®

• Service Tag and Express Service Code

Service Tag and Microsoft

Windows

License

• Microsoft Windows License Label

These labels are located on your computer.

• 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.

• How to reinstall my operating system

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 "Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP" on

page 39.

After you reinstall your

operating system, you can

use the optional Drivers

and Utilities CD

(ResourceCD) to reinstall

drivers for the devices that

came with your computer.

Your operating system

product key label is located

on your computer.

NOTE: The color of your CD varies based on the operating

system you ordered.

6 Quick Reference Guide

What Are You Looking For? Find It Here

• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from

Dell Support Website — support.dell.com

technicians, frequently asked questions, and online

NOTE: Select your region or business segment to view the

courses

appropriate support site.

• Community — Online discussion with other Dell

customers

• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such

as memory, the hard drive, and the operating system

• Customer Care — Contact information, service call and

order status, warranty, and repair information

• Service and support — Service call status and support

history, service contract, online discussions with technical

support

• Reference — Computer documentation, details on my

computer configuration, product specifications, and white

papers

• Downloads — Certified drivers, patches, and software

updates

• Desktop System Software (DSS) — If you reinstall the

To download Desktop System Software:

operating system for your computer, you should also

1

Go to

support.dell.com

, select your region or business

reinstall the DSS utility. DSS provides critical updates for

segment, and enter your Service Tag.

your operating system and support for Dell™ 3.5-inch

®

2

Select

Drivers & Downloads

and click

Go

.

USB floppy drives, Intel

processors, optical drives, and

USB devices. DSS is necessary for correct operation of

3

Click your operating system and search for the keyword

your Dell computer. The software automatically detects

Desktop System Software

.

your computer and operating system and installs the

NOTE: The support.dell.com user interface may vary

updates appropriate for your configuration.

dependent upon your selections.

• How to use Windows XP

Windows Help and Support Center

• How to work with programs and files

1

Click

Start

→

Help and Support

.

• How to personalize my desktop

2

Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and

click the arrow icon.

3

Click the topic that describes your problem.

4

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Quick Reference Guide 7

Setting Up Your Computer

CAUTION: Before performing any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in Product

Information Guide.

NOTICE: If your computer has an expansion card installed (such as a modem card), connect the appropriate cable

to the card, not to the connector on the back panel.

NOTICE: To help allow the computer to maintain proper operating temperature, ensure that you do not place the

computer too close to a wall or other storage compartment that might prevent air circulation around the chassis.

NOTE: Before you install any devices or software that did not ship with your computer, read the documentation

that came with the device or software, or contact the vendor to verify that the device or software is compatible

with your computer and operating system.

You must complete all the steps to properly set up your computer. See the appropriate figures that follow

the instructions.

NOTICE: Do not attempt to operate a PS/2 mouse and a USB mouse simultaneously.

1

Connect the keyboard and mouse.

NOTICE: Do not connect a modem cable to the network adapter connector. Voltage from telephone

communications can cause damage to the network adapter.

Set Up Your Keyboard and Mouse

2

Connect the modem or network cable.

Insert the network cable, not the telephone line, into the network connector. If you have an optional

modem, connect the telephone line to the modem.

8 Quick Reference Guide

3

Connect the monitor using

either

the white DVI cable

or

the blue VGA cable (

do not

connect both

cables).

Align and gently insert the monitor cable to avoid bending connector pins. Tighten the thumbscrews

on the cable connectors.

NOTE: Some monitors have the video connector underneath the back of the screen. See the documentation

that came with your monitor for its connector locations.

Set Up Your Monitor

4

Connect the speakers.

5

Connect power cables to the computer, monitor, and devices and connect the other ends of the power

cables to electrical outlets.

Quick Reference Guide 9

Desktop Computer — Front View

1

2

3

11

89

7

5

4610

1 USB 2.0 connectors (2) Use the USB connectors on the front of the computer for devices that you

connect occasionally, such as joysticks or cameras, or for bootable USB devices

(see your online User’s Guide for more information about booting to a USB

device).

It is recommended that you use the USB connectors on the back panel for devices

that typically remain connected, such as printers and keyboards.

2 hard-drive activity light This light flickers when the hard drive is being accessed.

3 power button Press this button to turn on the computer.

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, do not turn off the computer by pressing the

power button for 6 seconds or longer. Instead, perform an operating system

shutdown.

NOTICE: If your operating system has ACPI enabled, when you press the

power button the computer will perform an operating system shutdown.

4 Dell badge This badge can be rotated to match the orientation of your computer. To rotate

the badge, place your fingers around the outside of the badge, press firmly, and

turn the badge. You can also rotate the badge using the slot provided near the

bottom of the badge.

16 Quick Reference Guide

5 power light The power light illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different

operating states:

• No light — The computer is turned off.

• Steady green — The computer is in a normal operating state.

• Blinking green — The computer is in a power-saving mode.

• Blinking or solid amber — See "Power Problems" in your online

User’s Guide

.

To exit from a power-saving mode, press the power button or use the keyboard or

the mouse if it is configured as a wake device in the Windows Device Manager.

For a description of light codes that can help you troubleshoot problems with your

computer see "System Lights" on page 33.

6 diagnostic lights Use the lights to help you troubleshoot a computer problem based on the

diagnostic code. For more information, see "Diagnostic Lights" on page 34.

7 link integrity light

• 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.

• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.

8 headphone connector Use the headphone connector to attach headphones.

9 floppy drive Insert a floppy disk into this drive.

10 CD/DVD drive Insert a CD or DVD (if supported) into this drive.

11 location of Service Tag Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support

website or call technical support.

Desktop Computer — Back View

1

2 3 4 6

5

1 card slots Access connectors for any installed PCI and PCI Express Cards.

2 back-panel connectors Plug serial, USB, and other devices into the appropriate connector.

See "Desktop Computer — Back-Panel Connectors" on page 18.

3 power connector Insert the power cable into this connector.

Quick Reference Guide 17

4 voltage selection switch Your computer is equipped with a manual voltage-selection switch. To avoid

damaging a computer with a manual voltage-selection switch, set the switch for

the voltage that most closely matches the AC power available in your location.

NOTICE: In Japan, the voltage-selection switch must be set to the 115-V

position.

Also, ensure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to

operate with the AC power available in your location.

5 padlock ring Insert a padlock to lock the computer cover.

6 cover release latch Use this latch to open the computer cover.

Desktop Computer — Back-Panel Connectors

13

24

5

6

7

10 9 8

1

parallel connector

Connect a parallel device, such as a printer, to the parallel connector. If you have a

USB printer, plug it into a USB connector.

NOTE: The integrated parallel connector is automatically disabled if the computer

detects an installed card containing a parallel connector configured to the same

address. For more information, see your online User’s Guide.

2

link integrity light • 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.

• Off — The computer is not detecting a physical connection to the network.

18 Quick Reference Guide

3

network adapter

To attach your computer to a network or broadband device, connect one end of a

connector

network cable to either a network jack or your network or broadband device.

Connect the other end of the network cable to the network adapter connector on

the back panel of your computer. A click indicates that the network cable has been

securely attached.

NOTE: Do not plug a telephone cable into the network connector.

On computers with a network adapter card, use the connector on the card.

It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your

network. If you must use Category 3 wiring, force the network speed to 10 Mbps

to ensure reliable operation.

4

network activity light

This light flashes yellow when the computer is transmitting or receiving network

data. A high volume of network traffic may make this light appear to be in a steady

"on" state.

5

line-in connector

Use the blue line-in connector to attach a record/playback device such as a

cassette player, CD player, or VCR.

On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

6

line-out connector

Use the green line-out connector to attach headphones and most speakers with

integrated amplifiers.

On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

7

microphone connector

Use the pink microphone connector to attach a personal computer microphone

for voice or musical input into a sound or telephony program.

On computers with a sound card, the microphone connector is on the card.

8

USB 2.0 connectors (4)

Use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected, such as

printers and keyboards.

9

video connector

Plug the cable from your VGA-compatible monitor into the blue connector.

NOTE: If you purchased an optional graphics card, this connector will be covered by

a cap. Connect your monitor to the connector on the graphics card. Do not remove

the cap.

10

serial connector

Connect a serial device, such as a handheld device, to the serial port. The default

designation is COM1 for serial connector 1.

For more information, see your online User’s Guide.

Quick Reference Guide 19

Removing the Computer Cover

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product

Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

removing the cover.

Before You Begin

NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off your

computer.

1

Shut down the operating system:

a

Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the

Start

button, and then click

Tu rn

Off Computer

.

b

In the

Turn off computer

window, click

Tur n off

.

The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.

2

Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached

devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, turn them off now.

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help

ensure your own personal safety.

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product

Information Guide.

CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a

card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by

its pins.

NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing

that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.

NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself.

Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking

tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any

connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the

computer.

1

Turn off your computer.

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the

network wall jack.

20 Quick Reference Guide

2

Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.

3

Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the

power button to ground the system board.

4

If applicable, remove the computer stand (for instructions, see the documentation that came with the

stand).

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

removing the cover.

5

Remove the computer cover:

• Remove the mini tower computer cover (see "Mini Tower Computer" on page 21).

• Remove the desktop computer cover (see "Desktop Computer" on page 27).

NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface,

such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to

dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.

Mini Tower Computer

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product

Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

removing the computer cover.

1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 20.

2

If you have installed a padlock through the padlock ring on the back panel, remove the padlock.

3

Lay the computer on its side.

4

Slide the cover release latch back as you lift the cover.

5

Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up using the hinge tabs as leverage points.

6

Remove the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside on a soft nonabrasive surface.

Quick Reference Guide 21

1

2

3

1 security cable slot

2 cover release latch

3 padlock ring

22 Quick Reference Guide

Desktop Computer

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product

Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before

removing the computer cover.

1

Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin" on page 20.

2

If you have installed a padlock through the padlock ring on the back panel, remove the padlock.

3

Slide the cover release latch back as you lift the cover.

4

Pivot the cover up using the hinge tabs as leverage points.

5

Remove the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside on a soft nonabrasive surface.

1

2

3

1

security cable slot

2

cover release latch

3

padlock ring

Quick Reference Guide 23

Inside Your Computer

Mini Tower Computer

3

2

1

4

5

6

1 CD/DVD drive 4 system board

2 floppy drive 5 heat sink assembly

3 power supply 6 hard drive

24 Quick Reference Guide

System Board Components

12

3

17

4

16

5

15

14

6

7

13

12

10

911

8

Quick Reference Guide 25

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

1

After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the

Main

Menu

screen appears, click the button for the option

you want.

Option Function

Express Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires

no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing

the problem quickly.

Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically takes an hour or more and

requires you to answer questions periodically.

Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you want to run.

Symptom Tree Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows you to select a test based on

the symptom of the problem you are having.

2

If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the

problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the

screen.

If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell. For information on contacting Dell, see your

online

User’s Guide

.

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.

Tab Function

Results Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered.

Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the problem description.

Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for running the test.

Configuration Displays your hardware configuration for the selected device.

The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from system

setup, memory, and various internal tests, and it displays the information in the device

list in the left pane of the screen. The device list may not display the names of all the

components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.

Parameters You can customize the test by changing the test settings.

4

When the tests are completed, if you are running the Dell Diagnostics from the

Drivers and Utilities

CD (optional)

,

remove the CD.

5

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.

32 Quick Reference Guide

System Lights

Your power light may indicate a computer problem.

Power Light Problem Description Suggested Resolution

Solid green Power is on, and the computer is

No corrective action is required.

operating normally.

Blinking green The computer is in a power-saving

Press the power button, move the mouse, or

mode.

press a key on the keyboard to wake the

computer.

Blinks green several

A configuration error exists. Check Diagnostic Lights to see if the specific

times and then turns off

problem is identified (see "Diagnostic Lights"

on page 34).

Solid yellow The Dell Diagnostics is running a

If the Dell Diagnostics is running, allow the

test, or a device on the system board

testing to complete.

may be faulty or incorrectly installed.

Check Diagnostic Lights to see if the specific

problem is identified (see "Diagnostic Lights"

on page 34).

If the computer does not boot, contact Dell

for technical assistance.

For information on

contacting Dell, see your online

User’s Guide

.

Blinking yellow A power supply or system board

Check Diagnostic Lights to see if the specific

failure has occurred.

problem is identified (see "Diagnostic Lights"

on page 34).

See "Power Problems" in your online User’s

Guide.

Solid green and a beep

A problem was detected while the

For instructions on diagnosing the beep code

code during POST

BIOS was executing.

see "Beep Codes" on page 37. Also, check

Diagnostic Lights to see if the specific

problem is identified.

Solid green power light,

The monitor or the graphics card may

Check Diagnostic Lights to see if the specific

no beep code and no

be faulty or incorrectly installed.

problem is identified.

video during POST

Solid green power light

An integrated system board device

Check Diagnostic Lights to see if the specific

and no beep code, but

may be faulty.

problem is identified. If the problem is not

the computer locks up

identified, contact Dell for technical

during POST

assistance.

For information on contacting Dell,

see your online

User’s Guide

.

Quick Reference Guide 33

Diagnostic Lights

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product

Information Guide.

To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4" on the

front or back panel. The lights can be "off" or green. When the computer starts normally, the patterns or

codes on the lights change as the boot process completes. If the POST portion of system boot completes

successfully, all four lights display solid green for a short time, and then turn off.

If the computer malfunctions during the POST process, the pattern displayed on the LEDs may help

identify where in the process the computer halted. If the computer malfunctions after a successful

POST, the diagnostic lights do not indicate the cause of the problem.

NOTE: The orientation of the diagnostic lights may vary depending on the system type. The diagnostic lights can be

either vertically or horizontally oriented.

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

The computer is in a normal "off"

Plug the computer into a working electrical

condition, or a possible pre-BIOS failure

outlet and press the power button.

has occurred.

The diagnostic lights are not lit after the

computer successfully boots to the

operating system.

A possible BIOS failure has occurred; the

Run the BIOS Recovery utility, wait for

computer is in recovery mode.

recovery completion, and then restart the

computer.

A possible processor failure has occurred. Reinstall the processor and restart the

computer.

For information on reinstalling the

processor, see your online

User’s Guide

.

34 Quick Reference Guide

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

Memory modules are detected, but a

• If you have one memory module installed,

memory failure has occurred.

reinstall it and restart the computer. For

information on reinstalling memory

modules, see your online

User’s Guide

.

• If you have two or more memory modules

installed, remove the modules, reinstall one

module, and then restart the computer. If

the computer starts normally, reinstall an

additional module. Continue until you have

identified a faulty module or reinstalled all

modules without error.

• If available, install properly working

memory of the same type into your

computer.

• If the problem persists,

contact Dell

. For

information on contacting Dell, see your

online

User’s Guide

.

A possible graphics card failure has

• If the computer has a graphics card, remove

occurred.

the card, reinstall it, and then restart the

computer.

• If the problem still exists, install a graphics

card that you know works and restart the

computer.

• If the problem persists or the computer has

integrated graphics,

contact Dell

. For

information on contacting Dell, see your

online

User’s Guide

.

A possible floppy or hard drive failure has

Reseat all power and data cables and restart

occurred.

the computer.

A possible USB failure has occurred. Reinstall all USB devices, check cable

connections, and then restart the computer.

Quick Reference Guide 35

Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution

No memory modules are detected.

• If you have one memory module installed,

reinstall it and restart the computer. For

information on reinstalling memory

modules, see your online

User’s Guide

.

• If you have two or more memory modules

installed, remove the modules, reinstall one

module, and then restart the computer. If

the computer starts normally, reinstall an

additional module. Continue until you have

identified a faulty module or reinstalled all

modules without error.

• If available, install properly working

memory of the same type into your

computer.

• If the problem persists,

contact Dell

. For

information on contacting Dell, see your

online

User’s Guide

.

Memory modules are detected, but a

• Ensure that no

special memory

memory configuration or compatibility

module/memory connector placement

error exists.

requirements

exist.

• Verify that the

memory modules

that you

are installing are compatible with your

computer.

• If the problem persists,

contact Dell

. For

information on contacting Dell, see your

online

User’s Guide

.

A failure has occurred.

• Ensure that the cables are properly

connected to the system board from the

hard drive, CD drive, and DVD drive.

This pattern also displays when you enter

• Check the computer message that appears

system setup and may not indicate a

on your monitor screen.

problem.

• If the problem persists,

contact Dell

. For

information on contacting Dell, see your

online

User’s Guide

.

After POST is complete, all four

None.

diagnostic lights turn green briefly before

turning off to indicate a normal operating

condition.

36 Quick Reference Guide

Beep Codes

Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or

problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies a problem. One possible beep code

(code 1-3-1) consists of one beep, a burst of three beeps, and then one beep. This beep code tells you

that the computer encountered a memory problem.

If your computer beeps during start-up:

1

Write down the beep code.

2

See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 30 to identify a more serious cause.

3

Contact Dell for technical assistance. For information on contacting Dell, see your online

User’s

Guide

.

Code Cause Code Cause

1-1-2 Microprocessor register failure 3-1-4 Slave interrupt mask register failure

1-1-3 NVRAM read/write failure 3-2-2 Interrupt vector loading failure

1-1-4 ROM BIOS checksum failure 3-2-4 Keyboard Controller test failure

1-2-1 Programmable interval timer failure 3-3-1 NVRAM power loss

1-2-2 DMA initialization failure 3-3-2 Invalid NVRAM configuration

1-2-3 DMA page register read/write

3-3-4 Video Memory test failure

failure

1-3 Video Memory test failure 3-4-1 Screen initialization failure

1-3-1 through 2-4-4 Memory not being properly

3-4-2 Screen retrace failure

identified or used

3-1-1 Slave DMA register failure 3-4-3 Search for video ROM failure

3-1-2 Master DMA register failure 4-2-1 No timer tick

3-1-3 Master interrupt mask register

4-2-2 Shutdown failure

failure

4-2-3 Gate A20 failure 4-4-1 Serial or parallel port test failure

4-2-4 Unexpected interrupt in protected

4-4-2 Failure to decompress code to

mode

shadowed memory

4-3-1 Memory failure above address

4-4-3 Math-coprocessor test failure

0FFFFh

4-3-3 Timer-chip counter 2 failure 4-4-4 Cache test failure

4-3-4 Time-of-day clock stopped

Quick Reference Guide 37

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly

configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.

1

Click the

Start

button and click

Help and Support

.

2

Ty p e

hardware troubleshooter

in the

Search

field and click the arrow to start the search.

3

Click

Hardware Troubleshooter

in the

Search Results

list.

4

In the

Hardware Troubleshooter

list, click

I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer

, and

click

Next

.

Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your

computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software,

or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help

and Support Center for information on using System Restore. To access the Windows Help and Support

Center, see "Windows Help and Support Center" on page 7.

NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them.

Creating a Restore Point

1

Click the

Start

button and click

Help and Support

.

2

Click

System Restore

.

3

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any

open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

1

Click the

Start

button, point to

All Programs

→

Accessories

→

System Tools

, and then click

System

Restore

.

2

Ensure that

Restore my computer to an earlier time

is selected, and click

Next

.

3

Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.

The

Select a Restore Point

screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points.

All calendar dates with available restore points appear in boldface type.

4

Select a restore point and click

Next

.

If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically selected. If two or

more restore points are available, click the restore point that you prefer.

38 Quick Reference Guide

5

Click

Next

.

The

Restoration Complete

screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the

computer restarts.

6

After the computer restarts, click

OK

.

To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore point, or you can

undo the restoration.

Undoing the Last System Restore

NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not

alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

1

Click the

Start

button, point to

All Programs

→

Accessories

→

System Tools

, and then click

System

Restore

.

2

Click

Undo my last restoration

and click

Next

.

3

Click

Next

.

The

System Restore

screen appears and the computer restarts.

4

After the computer restarts, click

OK

.

Enabling System Restore

If you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is

automatically disabled. To verify that System Restore is enabled:

1

Click the

Start

button and click

Control

Panel

.

2

Click

Performance and Maintenance

.

3

Click

System

.

4

Click the

System Restore

tab.

5

Ensure that

Turn off System Restore

is unchecked.

Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP

Before You Begin

NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view in Windows XP Home Edition,

so the steps will differ if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view or are using Windows XP

Professional.

If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly

installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback.

1

Click the

Start

button and click

Control Pane

l.

2

Under

Pick a Category

, click

Performance and Maintenance

.

Quick Reference Guide 39

3

Click

System

.

4

In the

System Properties

window, click the

Hardware

tab.

5

Click

Device Manager

.

6

Right-click the device for which the new driver was installed and click

Properties

.

7

Click the

Drivers

tab.

8

Click

Roll Back Driver

.

If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your operating

system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver (see "Using Microsoft

Windows XP System Restore" on page 38).

NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer. Use the

Drivers and Utilities CD to load any required drivers, including the drivers required if your computer has a RAID

controller.

Reinstalling Windows XP

NOTICE: You must use Windows XP Service Pack 1 or later when you reinstall Windows XP.

NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For conventional hard

drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.

To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:

•Dell

Operating System

CD

•Dell

Drivers and Utilities

CD

To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which they are

listed.

The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you

must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.

NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files

and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell

technical support representative instructs you to do so.

NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your computer

before you reinstall Windows XP. See the documentation that came with the software for instructions.

Booting From the Operating System CD

1

Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.

2

Insert the

Operating System

CD. Click

Exit

if the

Install Windows XP

message appears.

3

Restart the computer.

40 Quick Reference Guide

4

Press <F12> immediately after the DELL logo appears.

If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the

computer and try again.

5

Press the arrow keys to select

CD-ROM

, and press <Enter>.

6

When the

Press any key to boot from CD

message appears, press any key.

Windows XP Setup

1

When the

Windows XP Setup

screen appears, press <Enter> to select

To set up Windows now

.

2

Read the information on the

Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement

screen, and press <F8> to

accept the license agreement.

3

If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to recover your current Windows XP

data, type

r

to select the repair option, and remove the CD.

4

If you want to install a new copy of Windows XP, press <Esc> to select that option.

5

Press <Enter> to select the highlighted partition (recommended), and follow the instructions on the

screen.

The

Windows XP Setup

screen appears, and the operating system begins to copy files and install the

devices. The computer automatically restarts multiple times.

NOTE: The time required to complete the setup depends on the size of the hard drive and the speed of your

computer.

NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot from

the CD

.

6

When the

Regional and Language Options

screen appears, select the settings for your location and

click

Next

.

7

Enter your name and organization (optional) in the

Personalize Your Software

screen, and click

Next

.

8

At the

Computer Name and Administrator Password

window, enter a name for your computer (or

accept the one provided) and a password, and click

Next

.

9

If the

Modem Dialing Information

screen appears, enter the requested information and click

Next

.

10

Enter the date, time, and time zone in the

Date and Time Settings

window, and click

Next

.

11

If the

Networking Settings

screen appears, click

Typical

and click

Next

.

12

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional and you are prompted to provide further information

regarding your network configuration, enter your selections. If you are unsure of your settings, accept

the default selections.

Windows XP installs the operating system components and configures the computer. The computer

automatically restarts.

NOTICE: Do not press any key when the following message appears: Press any key to boot from

the CD

.

Quick Reference Guide 41