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Solving Problems

Dell™ Dimension™ 4400

Accessing Help Files

To access the Tell Me How help file Microsoft® Windows® XP Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support. Click User and system guides, and then click User's guides. Click Tell Me How. Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Programs, point to User's Guides, and then click Tell Me How.

To access help in Windows XP Click the Start button, and then click Help and Support. Type a word or phrase that describes your problem, and then click the arrow icon. Click the topic that describes your problem. Follow the instructions shown on the screen.

To access help in Windows 2000 Click the Start button, and then click Help. Click the Search tab. Type a word or phrase that describes your problem, and then click List Topics. Click the topic that describes your problem, and then click Display. Follow the instructions shown on the screen.

Power Problems

HINT: See the Tell Me How help file for information on the standby mode.

Check the power light— When the power light is solid green, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking green, the computer is in standby mode—press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse. If the power light is off, the computer is either not turned on or is not receiving electrical power. If the power light is solid amber, the computer is receiving electrical power, but an internal power problem may exist—call Dell for technical assistance. See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for the correct number to call.

Test the electrical outlet— Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

Check the power cable connection— Be sure that the power cable is firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the computer power connector.

Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet— Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify that the computer turns on.

Swap the computer and monitor power cables— Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective.

Check for interference— Electrical appliances on the same circuit or operating near the computer can cause interference. Other causes of interference: power extension cables, keyboard and mouse extension cables, too many devices on a power strip, or multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet.

Check the Power Properties— See the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center (Help in Windows 2000). To access help files, see "Accessing Help Files."

Start-Up Error Messages

Operating system not found— Call Dell for technical assistance. See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for the correct number to call.

Insert bootable media— The operating system is trying to boot to a nonbootable floppy disk or CD. Insert a bootable floppy disk or CD.

Non-system disk error— A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy disk and restart the computer.

Video and Monitor Problems

If the screen is blank

HINT: See the documentation that came with your monitor for fault indications and troubleshooting procedures specific to your monitor.

Check the video cable connection— Check for bent pins (most video cable connectors have missing pins, but not bent pins). Ensure that the video cable is connected as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer.

Press the monitor power button— Be sure that you firmly pressed the monitor power button.

Check the power light— When 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.

Test the electrical outlet— Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

Swap the computer and monitor power cables— Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the power cable is defective.

Test the video extension cable (if used)— If you are using a video extension cable and removing the cable solves the problem, the cable is defective.

Test the monitor— If another monitor is available, connect it to the computer.

Check the back panel lights— If all four lights below the serial connector are not green, call Dell for technical assistance. See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for the correct number to call.

Check the Power Properties— See the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center (Help in Windows 2000). To access help files, see "Accessing Help Files."

If the screen is difficult to read

Adjust the contrast and brightness— See the documentation that came with your monitor for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness.

Move the subwoofer away from the monitor— If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 2 ft (60 cm) away from the monitor.

Move the monitor away from external power sources— Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky." Turn off nearby devices to check for interference.

Rotate the monitor to face a different direction— Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality.

Degauss (demagnetize) the monitor— See the documentation that came with your monitor.

Run the monitor self-test— See the documentation that came with your monitor.

Restore the recommended settings— Restore the original resolution and refresh rate settings. See the Tell Me How help file for instructions.

Check for additional adjustments— See the documentation that came with your monitor for any additional adjustments that your monitor may require.

Adjust the Windows display settings Windows XP Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes. Click Display, and then click the Settings tab. Try different settings for Screen resolution and Color quality. Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. Double-click the Display icon, and then click the Settings tab. Try different settings for Colors and Screen area.

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Sound and Speaker Problems

HINT: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been listening to MP3 songs, make sure that you did not turn the player volume down or off.

Ensure that the subwoofer and the speakers are turned on— See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.

Adjust the speaker controls— Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.

Verify the speaker cable connections— Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer and the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.

Be sure that headphones are not connected to the front-panel headphone connector— Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer's front-panel headphone connector.

Adjust the Windows volume control— In Windows XP, click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. In Windows 2000, double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

Run the speaker diagnostics— Some speaker systems have self-contained diagnostics. See the speaker documentation for diagnostics instructions.

Eliminate possible interference— Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.

Test the electrical outlet— Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

Reinstall the Sound (audio) driver— See "Reinstalling Drivers. "

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Printer Problems

HINT: If you need technical assistance for your printer, call the printer's manufacturer (see the documentation that came with the printer for the correct phone number). Dell does not cover the printer's warranty.

If you cannot print to a parallel port printer

Verify the printer cable connections— Ensure that the printer cable is connected as described in "Connecting a Printer" in the Dell Owner's Manual.

Ensure that the printer is turned on— See the documentation supplied with the printer.

Verify that the printer is recognized by Windows Windows XP Click the Start button. Click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware. Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port).

Test the electrical outlet— Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

Reinstall the printer driver— See "Installing the Printer Driver" in the Dell Owner's Manual.

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

If you cannot print to a USB printer

Verify the printer cable connections— Ensure that the printer cable is connected as described in "Connecting a Printer" in the Dell Owner's Manual.

Ensure that the printer is turned on— See the documentation supplied with the printer.

Verify that the printer is recognized by Windows Windows XP Click the Start button. Click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware. Click View installed printers or fax printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer name. Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB. Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers. If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. Click Properties, and then select the Ports tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB.

Test the electrical outlet— Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.

Reinstall the printer driver— See "Installing the Printer Driver" in the Dell Owner's Manual.

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Scanner Problems

HINT: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, call the scanner's manufacturer (see the documentation that came with the scanner for the correct phone number). Dell does not cover the scanner's warranty.

Check the power cable connection— Ensure that the scanner power cable is firmly connected to a working electrical power source and that the scanner is turned on.

Check the scanner cable connection— Ensure that the scanner cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the scanner.

Unlock the scanner— Ensure that your scanner is unlocked if it has a locking tab or button.

Reinstall the scanner driver— Reinstall the scanner driver. See the scanner documentation for instructions.

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Modem Problems

HINT: Connect the modem to an analog telephone jack only. The modem does not operate while it is connected to a digital telephone network.

Check the connection— Verify that the telephone line is connected to the green jack on the modem. (The green line-in jack has either a LINE IN label or a connector-shaped icon next to it.) Make sure you hear a click when you insert the telephone line connector.

Check the telephone jack— Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.

Connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack— If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack with the telephone line.

Check the telephone line— Try using a different telephone line. If you are using a line that is 10 ft (3 m) or more in length, try a shorter one.

Verify that the modem is communicating with Windows Windows XP Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware. Click Phone and Modem Options. Click the Modems tab. Click the COM port for your modem. Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly. Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. In the Control Panel, double-click Phone and Modem Options. If there are multiple entries for the same modem or modems listed that are not installed, delete the entries and restart the computer. Click the Modems tab. Click the COM port for your modem. Click the Properties button. Click the Diagnostics tab to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.

Be sure that you have subscribed to an Internet service provider— Contact an Internet service provider to subscribe.

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Mouse Problems

If you connected the mouse before turning on the computer, reconnect the mouse cable Press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the Start menu. In Windows XP, type u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn Off, and then press <Enter>. In Windows 2000, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut Down, and then press <Enter>. After the computer turns off, reconnect the mouse cable as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer. Start the computer.

If you connected the mouse after turning on the computer, remove the power cable, and then reconnect the mouse cable— If the mouse is connected after the power is turned on, the mouse will appear to be nonfunctional. To make the mouse function properly: While your computer is on, remove the power cable from the back of the computer. Connect the mouse to the computer. Reconnect the power cable. Turn on your computer. Pressing the power button does not clear the computer's settings and does not restore mouse functionality.

Check the mouse settings Windows XP Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Printers and Other Hardware. Click Mouse. Try adjusting the settings. Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. Double-click the Mouse icon. Try adjusting the settings.

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Keyboard Problems

Reconnect the keyboard cable— Shut down the computer (see "Turning Off the Computer" in the Dell Owner's Manual), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer, and then restart the computer.

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Drive Problems

If you cannot save a file to a floppy disk

HINT: See "Accessing Help Files" for information on saving files to a floppy disk.

Ensure that Windows recognizes the drive— In Windows XP, click the Start button, and then click My Computer. In Windows 2000, double-click the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop. If the floppy drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.

Test the drive with another floppy disk— Insert another floppy disk to eliminate the possibility that the original floppy disk is defective.

Cannot save files to a floppy disk— Ensure that the floppy disk is not full or write-protected (locked). See the following illustration.

If you cannot play a music CD or install a program from a CD

HINT: High-speed CD drive vibration is normal and may cause noise. This does not indicate a defect in the drive or the CD.

Ensure that Windows recognizes the drive— In Windows XP, click the Start button, and then click My Computer. In Windows 2000, double-click the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop. If the CD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.

Test the drive with another CD— Insert another CD to eliminate the possibility that the original CD is defective.

Clean the disc— See the Tell Me How help file for instructions.

Adjust the Windows volume control— In Windows XP, click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. In Windows 2000, double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Be sure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

If headphones are connected to the front-panel headphone connector, check for sound from the headphones— Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer's front-panel headphone connector.

Check the speakers and subwoofer— See "Sound and Speaker Problems."

If you cannot play a DVD movie

HINT: Because of different worldwide file types, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

Ensure that Windows recognizes the drive— In Windows XP, click the Start button, and then click My Computer. In Windows 2000, double-click the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop. If the DVD drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.

Test the drive with another DVD— Insert another DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original DVD is defective.

Clean the disc— See the Tell Me How help file for instructions.

If the CD-RW drive stops writing

HINT: If you disable standby mode to write to a CD-RW drive, remember to reenable standby mode when you finish writing to the CD.

Turn off Standby in Windows before writing to a CD-RW disc— See the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in the Help and Support Center (Help in Windows 2000). To access help files, see "Accessing Help Files."

Change the write speed to a slower rate— The CD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Closing all programs before writing to the CD-RW may also alleviate the problem.

If you have a hard drive problem

Run ScanDisk In Windows XP click the Start button, and then click My Computer. In Windows 2000 double-click the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop. Right-click the drive letter (local disk) that you want to scan for errors, and then click Properties. Click the Tools tab. Under Error-checking, click Check Now. Click Start.

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Network Problems

Check the network cable connector— Ensure that the network cable connector is firmly connected to the connector on the computer and the network wall jack as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer.

Check the network lights on the back of the computer— A green light indicates a 10 Mbps network connection, and an orange light indicates a 100 Mbps network connection. The light blinks amber when there is any network traffic. If the light is dark, try replacing the network cable.

Restart the computer— Try to log on to the network again.

Contact your network administrator— Verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.

Check for interrupt request conflicts— See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities."

Microsoft® Windows® Error Messages

x:\ is not accessible. The device is not ready— Insert a disk into the drive and try again.

A filename cannot contain any of the following characters: \ / : * ? " < > |— Do not use these characters in filenames.

Not enough memory or resources. Close some programs and try again— You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. In some cases, you might have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, try running the program that you want to use first.

The file being copied is too large for the destination drive— The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the disk. Try copying the file to a blank disk or use a larger capacity disk.

A required .DLL file was not found— The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program: Windows XP Click the Start button. Click Control Panel. Click Add or Remove Programs. Select the program you want to remove. Click the Change or Remove Program icon. See the program documentation for installation instructions. Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon. Select the program that you want to remove. Click Change/Remove and follow the prompts on the screen. See the program documentation for installation instructions.

General Program Problems

A program crashes

See the software documentation— Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you to solve the problem.

A program stops responding

End the program Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc>. In Windows XP and Windows 2000, click the Task Manager button, click the Applications tab, and then select the program that is no longer responding. Click the End Task button.

A program error causes the system to lock up

HINT: ScanDisk may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Turn the computer off— If your computer locks up and you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then press the power button again to turn on the computer. You might lose data if you are unable to perform a Microsoft Windows shutdown.

A solid blue screen appears

HINT: ScanDisk may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Turn the computer off— If your computer locks up and you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then press the power button again to turn on the computer. The solid blue screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows shutdown. You might lose data if you are unable to perform a Microsoft Windows shutdown.

A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system

Internet Connection Problems

If you have a problem with your Internet connection

Review "Modem Problems."

Turn off call waiting (catch-phone)— See your telephone directory for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking connection properties. Windows XP Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware, and then click Phone and Modem Options. Click to highlight your connection type in the displayed list. Click the Dialing Rules tab, and then click the Edit button. Click to place a checkmark in the To Disable Call Waiting box. Select the disable code from the drop down menu (for example, *70). Click Apply, and then click OK. Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. Double-click the Phone and Modems Options icon. In the Locations window, select the location for which you want to disable call waiting, and then click Edit. Ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked and then select the proper code according to the information in your telephone directory. Click Apply and then click OK. Close the Phone and Modems Options window. Close the Control Panel.

Be sure that you have subscribed to an Internet service provider— Contact an Internet service provider to subscribe.

E-Mail Problems

Ensure that you are connected to the Internet— With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click File. If Work Offline has a check next to it, click the check to remove it and connect to the Internet.

Resolving Other Technical Problems

Go to the Dell support website— Go to the Dell | Support website for help with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions.

E-mail Dell— Go to the Dell | Support website and then click E-Mail Dell in the Communicate list. Send an e-mail message to Dell about your problem; you can expect to receive an e-mail message from Dell within hours.

Call Dell— If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell | Support website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance. See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for the correct number to call.

Reinstalling Drivers

NOTICE: The Dell | Support website and the Dell Dimension ResourceCD provide approved drivers for Dell™ computers. If you install drivers obtained from other sources, your computer might not work correctly.

A driver is a software program that allows a hardware device controller to function properly and to communicate with the computer. Sometimes you can fix a device problem by reinstalling its driver:

1. From the Windows desktop, insert the Dell Dimension ResourceCD into the CD or DVD drive.
   
   

If this is your first time to use the ResourceCD, go to step 2. If not, go to step 5.

2. When the ResourceCD Installation program starts, follow the prompts on the screen.
   
   
3. When the InstallShield Wizard Complete window appears, remove the ResourceCD and click Finish to restart the computer.
   
   
4. When you see the Windows desktop, reinsert the ResourceCD into the CD or DVD drive.
   
   
5. At the Welcome Dell System Owner screen, click Next.
   
   

HINT: The ResourceCD displays drivers only for hardware that Dell installed at the time of purchase. If you installed any additional hardware, those drivers may not be displayed by the ResourceCD. If those drivers are not displayed, exit the ResourceCD program and refer to the documentation and drivers that came with that product.

A message appears that says the ResourceCD is detecting hardware in your computer.

The drivers that are used by your computer are automatically displayed in the My Drivers—The ResourceCD has identified these components in your system window.

6. Click the driver that you want to reinstall and follow the instructions on the screen.
   
   

If a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is not required by your operating system.

To view other contents on the ResourceCD:

1. Verify that your computer is selected in the System Model list.
   
   
2. Verify that your operating system is selected in the Operating System list.
   
   
3. Select the type of device in the Device Type list.
   
   

NOTICE: The ResourceCD contains drivers for devices that are not part of your computer. Only reinstall the specific drivers for hardware included in your computer. Otherwise, your computer might not work correctly.

4. Select a topic in the Topic list.
   
   

If you select Drivers in the Topic list and a particular driver is not listed, then that driver is not required by your operating system.

Using the Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

If you install a new device driver that causes system instability and you need to replace a device driver with a previously installed version, the Windows XP Device Driver Rollback can replace the device driver. If you cannot reinstall your previous driver with the Driver Rollback process, then use System Restore to attempt to return your operating system to its previous operating state before the new device driver installation:

1. Click the Start button, and then right-click My Computer.
   
   
2. Click Properties.
   
   
3. Click the Hardware tab, and then click Device Manager.
   
   
4. In the Device Manager window, right-click the device for which the new driver was installed, and then click Properties.
   
   
5. Click the Drivers tab.
   
   
6. Click Roll Back Driver.
   
   

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Windows XP and Windows 2000 interrupt request (IRQ) conflicts occur if a device either is not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured.

Windows XP

To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows XP:

1. Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel.
   
   
2. Click Performance and Maintenance, and then click System.
   
   
3. Click the Hardware tab, and then click the Device Manager button.
   
   
4. In the Device Manager list, check for conflicts with the other devices.
   
   

Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (!) beside the conflicting device or a red X if the device has been disabled.

5. Double-click any conflicting device listed to bring up the Properties window so you can determine what needs to be reconfigured or removed from the Device Manager.
   
   

Resolve these conflicts before checking specific devices.

6. Double-click the malfunctioning device type in the Device Manager list.
   
   
7. Double-click the icon for the specific device in the expanded list.
   
   

The Properties window appears.

8. Resolve any IRQ conflicts.
   
   

If there is an IRQ conflict, the Device status area in the Properties window reports what cards or devices are sharing the device's IRQ.

You can also use the Windows XP Hardware Troubleshooter. To use the troubleshooter, click the Start button and click Help and Support. Type hardware troubleshooter in the Search field, and then click the arrow to start the search. Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list. In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer, and then click Next.

Windows 2000

To check for conflicts on a computer running Windows 2000:

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel.
   
   
2. In the Control Panel, double-click System.
   
   
3. Click the Hardware tab.
   
   
4. Click Device Manager.
   
   
5. Click View, and then click Resources by connection.
   
   
6. Double-click Interrupt request (IRQ) to view the IRQ assignments.
   
   

Conflicts are indicated by a yellow exclamation point (!) beside the conflicting device or a red X if the device has been disabled.

7. Double-click any conflicting device listed to bring up the Properties window so you can determine what needs to be reconfigured or removed from the Device Manager. Resolve these conflicts before checking specific devices.
   
   
8. Double-click the malfunctioning device type in the Device Manager list.
   
   
9. Double-click the icon for the specific device in the expanded list.
   
   

The Properties window appears.

10. If there is an IRQ conflict, the Device status area in the Properties window reports what cards or devices are sharing the device's IRQ. Resolve the IRQ conflicts.
    
    

You can also use the Windows 2000 Hardware Troubleshooter. To use the troubleshooter, click the Start button and click Help. Click Troubleshooting and Maintenance on the Contents tab, click Windows 2000 troubleshooters, and then click Hardware. In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer, and then click Next.

Using System Restore

Windows XP provides a System Restore feature that allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state if changes to the computer's hardware or software (including new hardware or program installations), or other system settings, have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. You can also undo the last System Restore.

System Restore automatically creates system checkpoints. You can also manually create your own checkpoints by creating Restore Points. To limit the amount of hard disk space used, older restore points will be automatically purged.

If your computer experiences an operating system problem, you can use System Restore from Safe Mode or Normal Mode to return your computer to an earlier operating state.

System Restore does not cause you to lose personal files stored in the My Documents folder, data files, or e-mail messages after restoring the computer to an earlier time. If you restore the computer to a point before you installed a program, the program's data files won't be lost, but you will have to reinstall the actual program again.

NOTICE: It is important to make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor changes to or recover your data files. If the original data on the hard disk is accidentally erased or overwritten, or becomes inaccessible because of a hard disk malfunction, you will need your backup files to recover the lost or damaged data.

System Restore is enabled on your new computer. However, if you reinstall Windows XP with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. To see if System Restore is enabled:

1. Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel.
   
   
2. Click Performance and Maintenance.
   
   
3. Click System.
   
   
4. Click the System Restore tab.
   
   
5. Make sure that Turn off System Restore is unchecked.
   
   

Before proceeding with any System Restore function, Dell recommends that you thoroughly read Microsoft's information about using System Restore. To access this information:

1. Click the Start button, point to All Programs—> Accessories—> System Tools, and then click System Restore.
   
   
2. Click Help in the upper-right corner of the Welcome to System Restore screen.
   
   

Creating a Restore Point

Using the XP System Restore Wizard

In Windows XP, you can manually create restore points or you can use the System Restore Wizard to create the restore points for you. To use the System Restore Wizard, click the Start button, click Help and Support, click System Restore, and then follow the instructions on the screen. You can also create and name a restore point if you are logged on as the computer administrator or a user with administrator rights.

Manually Creating the Restore Points

1. Click the Start button, point to All Programs—> Accessories—> System Tools, and then click System Restore.
   
   
2. Click Create a restore point.
   
   
3. Click Next.
   
   
4. Type a name for your new restore point in the Restore point description field.
   
   

The present date and time are automatically added to your restore point.

5. Click Create.
   
   
6. Click OK.
   
   

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after installing a device driver, first try using Device Driver Rollback. If that is unsuccessful, then use System Restore.

NOTICE: Before restoring the computer to an earlier time, save and close all open files and close all 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. Be sure Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected, and then 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 bold.

4. Select a restore point, and then 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 want to use.

NOTICE: Save and close all open files and close all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

5. Click Next.
   
   

The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore completes collecting data, and then the computer automatically 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 undoing the last system restore, save and close all open files and close all 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. Select Undo my last restoration and click Next.
   
   

NOTICE: Save and close all open files and close all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

3. Click Next.
   
   

The System Restore screen appears, and then the computer automatically restarts.

4. After the computer restarts, click OK.
   
   

Reinstalling Windows XP

Before reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem, try correcting the problem by performing a Windows XP System Restore.

NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling your Windows XP operating system. The options can potentially overwrite files installed by Dell and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, Dell does not recommend that you reinstall your operating system unless instructed to do so by a Dell technical support representative.

NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, you must disable any virus protection software installed on your computer before you reinstall Windows XP.

1. Insert the Operating System CD into the CD or DVD drive.
   
   

Close any program or utility that may start to run after you insert the CD into the drive.

HINT: The CD that you need to place in your CD or DVD drive is titled Operating System.

2. Turn off the computer, and then turn the computer on again.
   
   
3. When the blue Dell logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
   
   

If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop. Then shut down the computer and try again.

4. Use the arrow keys to select the CD-ROM option, and then press <Enter>.
   
   
5. When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press <Enter> to select To set up Windows now.
   
   
6. Read the information in the License Agreement window, and then press <F8> on your keyboard to agree with the license information.
   
   
7. 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 then go to step 15.
   
   

If you want to install a new copy of Windows XP, press <Esc> to select the fresh copy option, and then press <Enter> on the next screen to select the highlighted partition (recommended). Then follow the instructions on the screen.

The Windows XP Setup screen appears and Windows XP begins to copy files and install the devices. The computer automatically restarts multiple times before it requires additional input.

8. When the Welcome to Microsoft screen appears, click the green arrow icon at the bottom of the screen to continue. Follow the on-screen directions to finish.
   
   
9. When the Regional Settings screen appears, select the settings for your locale, and then click Next.
   
   
10. Enter your name and organization in the Personalize Your Software screen, and then click Next.
    
    
11. If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition, enter a name for your computer when the Computer Name window appears, and then click Next.
    
    

If you are reinstalling Windows XP Professional, enter a name for your computer and a password when the Computer Name and Administrator Password window appears, and then click Next.

12. If you have a modem installed and the Modem Dialing Information screen appears, enter the requested information, and then click Next.
    
    
13. Enter the date, time, and time zone in the Date and Time Settings window, and then click Next.
    
    
14. If you have a network card in your computer, select the appropriate network settings. If you do not have a network card, this option does not appear.
    
    

Windows XP begins to install its components and configure the computer. The computer automatically restarts.

15. When the Welcome to Microsoft screen appears, click the green arrow icon at the bottom of the screen to continue. Follow the on-screen directions to finish.
    
    
16. Remove the CD from the drive.
    
    
17. Reinstall the appropriate drivers. See "Reinstalling Drivers."
    
    
18. Reinstall your virus protection software.
    
    

Reinstalling Windows 2000

NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling your Windows 2000 operating system. The options can potentially overwrite files installed by Dell and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, Dell does not recommend that you reinstall your operating system unless instructed to do so by a Dell technical support representative.

NOTICE: To prevent conflicts with Windows 2000, you must disable any virus protection software installed on your computer before you reinstall Windows 2000.

1. Insert the Operating System CD into the CD or DVD drive.
   
   

Close any program or utility that may start to run after you insert the CD into the drive.

HINT: The CD that you need to place in your CD or DVD drive is titled Operating System.

2. Turn off the computer, and then turn the computer on again.
   
   
3. When the blue Dell logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
   
   

If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop. Then shut down the computer and try again.

4. Use the arrow keys to select the CD-ROM option, and then press <Enter>.
   
   
5. When the Windows 2000 Setup screen appears, ensure that the To setup Win2000 now, press ENTER option is highlighted. Then press <Enter>.
   
   
6. Read the information in the License Agreement screen, and then press <F8> to continue.
   
   
7. When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup screen appears, use the arrow keys to select the Windows 2000 partition option that you want. To continue, press the key specified in the partition option that you chose.
   
   
8. When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup screen reappears, use the arrow keys to select the type of filing system that you want Windows 2000 to use, and then press <Enter>.
   
   
9. Press <Enter> again to restart your computer.
   
   
10. Click Next when the Welcome to the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard screen appears.
    
    
11. When the Regional Settings screen appears, select the settings for your locale, and then click Next.
    
    
12. Enter your name and organization in the Personalize Your Software screen, and then click Next.
    
    
13. Type the Windows product key in the fields provided, and then click Next.
    
    

The product key is the bar code number found on the Microsoft Windows label, which is located behind the front-panel connector door as shown on the START HERE sheet for your computer.

14. When the Computer Name and Administrator Password screen appears, enter a name for your computer and a password, if desired. Then click Next.
    
    
15. Enter the date and time in the Date and Time Settings screen, and then click Next.
    
    

Windows 2000 now begins to install its components and configure the computer.

16. When the Completing the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard screen appears, remove the CD from the drive, and then click Finish.
    
    

The computer automatically restarts.

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