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Solving Problems

Dell™ Inspiron™ 4100

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 Millennium Edition (Me) and 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, and then click Display. Follow the instructions shown on the screen.

To access help in Windows Me Click the Start button, and then click Help. Type a word or phrase that describes your problem in the Search box, and then click Go. Click the topic that describes your problem, and then click Display. 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 standby mode. See "Accessing Help Files."

Check the power light— When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit standby mode. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer.

Charge the battery— The battery charge may be depleted. Reinstall the battery. Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet. Turn on the computer.

Check the battery status light— If the battery status light flashes orange or is a steady orange, the battery charge is low or depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.If the battery status light flashes green and orange, the battery is too hot to charge. Turn off the computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperature.If the battery status light rapidly flashes orange, the battery may be defective. See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Solutions Guide.

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

Check the AC adapter— Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on.

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.

Eliminate possible interference— Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances.

Adjust the Power Properties— See the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. See "Accessing Help Files."

Reseat the memory modules— If your computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, reseat the memory modules. See "Memory Module."

Error Messages

HINT: If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running at the time the message appeared.

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, or the disk is too full. Try copying the file to a different disk or use a larger capacity disk.

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

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 or disk error— A floppy disk is in the floppy drive. Remove the floppy disk and restart the computer.

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.

Operating system not found— Reseat the hard drive.

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. Click the program you want to remove. Click the Change or Remove Program icon. See the program documentation for installation instructions. Windows Me and Windows 2000 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon. Click the program that you want to remove. Click Add/Remove (click Change/Remove in Windows 2000) and follow the prompts on the screen. See the program documentation for installation instructions.

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

Video and Display Problems

If the display is blank

HINT: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer supports, Dell recommends that you attach an external monitor to your computer.

Check the power light— When the power light is blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit standby mode. If the power light is off, press the power button. If the power light is on, your power management settings may have caused the display to turn off. Try pressing any key or move the cursor to exit standby mode.

Check the battery— If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.

Test the electrical outlet— Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. If the device is plugged into a surge protector, try plugging it directly into an electrical outlet.

Check the AC adapter— Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that it is on.

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.

Adjust the Power Properties— Search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. See "Accessing Help Files."

Switch the video image— If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press to switch the video image to the display.

If the display is difficult to read

Adjust the brightness— Press to increase the brightness, or press to decrease the brightness.

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

Eliminate possible interference— Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances.

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

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 Me and 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.

See "Error Messages"— If an error message appears, see "Error Messages."

If only part of the display is readable

Connect an external monitor Turn off your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer. Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls. If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Solutions Guide.

Sound and Speaker Problems

If you have a problem with integrated speakers

Adjust the Windows® volume control— Double-click the yellow 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. Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.

Adjust the volume using keyboard shortcuts— Press to disable (mute) or reenable the integrated speakers.

Reinstall the sound (audio) driver— See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities."

If you have a problem with external speakers

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.

Check the speaker cable connections— See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers.

Test the electrical outlet— Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp. If the device is plugged into a surge protector, try plugging it directly into an electrical outlet.

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

Adjust the Windows volume control— Double-click the yellow 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. Adjust the volume, bass, or treble controls to eliminate distortion.

Test the speakers— Plug the speaker audio cable into the line-out connector on the computer. Ensure that the headphone volume control is turned up. Play a music CD.

Run the speaker self-test— Some speaker systems have a self-test button on the subwoofer. See the speaker documentation for self-test instructions.

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

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

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

Printer Problems

Check the printer cable connections— Ensure that the printer cable is properly connected to the computer (see "Connecting a Printer" in the Dell Solutions Guide that came with your computer).

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

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

Verify that Windows® recognizes the printer 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 Details tab. Ensure that the Print to the following port: option is set for your printer type: For a parallel printer: LPT1 (Printer Port) For a USB printer: USB

Reinstall the printer driver— See "Installing the Printer Driver" in the Dell Solutions Guide.

Modem and Internet Connection Problems

NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog telephone wall jack only. Connecting the modem to a digital telephone network damages the modem.

NOTICE: Modem and network connectors look similar. Do not plug a telephone line into the network connector.

HINT: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP), your modem is functioning properly. If you are sure that your modem is working properly and you still experience problems, contact your ISP.

Check the telephone wall jack— Disconnect the telephone line from the modem and connect it to a telephone. Listen for a dial tone. Ensure that you have touchtone telephone service. Try connecting the modem to a different telephone wall jack.

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 connection— Verify that the telephone line is connected to the modem.

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

Irregular dial tone — If you have voice mail service, you may hear an irregular dial tone when you have messages. Contact your telephone company for instructions on restoring a normal dial tone.

Turn off call waiting (catch-phone)— See your telephone directory for instructions on deactivating this feature. Then adjust the dial-up networking connection properties: Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. Double-click the Modems icon. In the Modems Properties window, click Dialing Properties. Ensure that To disable call waiting, dial: is checked, and then select the proper code as listed in your telephone directory. Click Apply and then click OK. Close the Modems Properties window. Close the Control Panel window.

Verify that the modem is communicating with Windows Windows XP Click the Start button. Click Control Panel. Click Network and Internet Connections. Click Internet Options. Click Network Diagnostics and perform the connectivity test. Windows Me Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. In the Control Panel window, double-click Modems. 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 Diagnostics tab. Click the COM port for your modem. Click More Info 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 window, 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.

Scanner Problems

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. If the device is plugged into a surge protector, try plugging it directly into an electrical outlet.

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— See the scanner documentation for instructions.

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

Check the touch pad settings— Click the Start button, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then double-click the Mouse icon. Try adjusting the settings.

Check the mouse cable— Shut down the computer. Disconnect the mouse cable and check it for damage. For PS/2 cables, check the cable connector for bent or broken pins. Firmly reconnect the cable.If you are using a mouse extension cable, disconnect it and connect the mouse directly to the computer.

To verify that the problem is with the mouse, check the touch pad Turn off the computer. Disconnect the mouse. Turn on the computer. At the Windows® desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it. If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.

Reinstall the touch pad driver— See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities."

External Keyboard Problems

Check the keyboard cable— Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for damage. For PS/2 cables, check the cable connector for bent or broken pins. Firmly reconnect the cable.If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.

Check the external keyboard Turn off the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again. Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine. From the Windows® desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to Accessories, and click Notepad. Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display. If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.

To verify that the problem is with the external keyboard, check the integrated keyboard Turn off the computer. Disconnect the external keyboard. Turn on the computer. From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to Accessories, and click Notepad. Type some characters on the integrated keyboard and verify that they appear on the display. If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard.

Unexpected Characters

HINT: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

Disable the numeric keypad— Press to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

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Drive Problems

HINT: For information on saving files to a floppy disk, see the Tell Me How help file. See "Accessing Help Files."

If you cannot save a file to a floppy drive

Ensure that Windows recognizes the drive— In Windows XP, click the Start button, and then click My Computer. In Windows Me and 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.

Ensure that the disk is not write-protected— You cannot save data to a write-protected disk. See the following figure.

Try another floppy disk— Insert another disk to eliminate the possibility that the original disk is defective.

Reinstall the drive Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer. Remove the drive from the module bay. See "Module Bay Devices." Reinstall the drive. Turn on the computer.

Clean the drive— See the Tell Me How help file for instructions. See "Accessing Help Files."

If you cannot play a CD, CD-RW, or DVD

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

Try another disc— Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original disc is defective.

Adjust the Windows volume control— Double-click the yellow speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.

Reinstall the drive Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer. If the drive is installed in the module bay, remove the drive. See "Module Bay Devices." If the drive is a fixed drive, review "Drive Problems." Reinstall the drive. Turn on the computer.

Clean the drive or disc— See the Tell Me How help file for instructions. See "Accessing Help Files."

Check the drive for errors Remove the hard drive. Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD for your computer and turn on the computer. Check to see if the drive light is blinking.

If you cannot eject the CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive tray

Ensure that the computer is off. Straighten a paper clip and insert one end into the eject hole at the front of the drive; push firmly until the tray is partially ejected. Gently pull out the tray until it stops.

If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound

Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running. Ensure that the disk or disc is inserted properly.

If the CD-RW drive stops writing

Disable standby mode in Windows before writing to a CD-RW— Search for the keyword standby in Windows Help. See "Accessing Help Files."

Change the write speed to a slower rate— See the help files for your CD creation software.

Close all other open programs— Closing all other open programs before writing to the CD-RW may alleviate the problem.

If you have problems with a hard drive

Allow the computer to cool before turning it on— A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.

Run ScanDisk Windows XP and Windows 2000 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. Windows Me Click the Start button, point to Programs—> Accessories—> System Tools, and then click ScanDisk.

Network Problems

Check the network cable connector— Ensure that the network cable is firmly connected to the optional internal connector on the computer and the network wall jack.

Check the network lights on the network connector— Green indicates that the network connection is active. If the status light is not green, try replacing the network cable. Amber indicates that the optional internal network adapter driver is loaded and the adapter is detecting activity.

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.

General Program Problems

A program crashes

HINT: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.

See the software documentation— Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you solve the problem. Ensure that you properly installed and configured the program. Reinstall the program if necessary.

A program stops responding

End the task Press . If necessary, click Task Manager. Select the program that is no longer responding. Click End Task. If the computer still does not respond, restart the computer by pressing the power button until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer.

A solid blue screen appears

Turn the computer off— If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper shutdown, press the power button until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer. The solid blue screen appears because you were not able to perform a proper Windows® shutdown. ScanDisk automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Error messages appear

Review "Error Messages"— Look up the message and take the appropriate action. See the software documentation.

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.

If Your Computer Gets Wet

CAUTION: Perform this procedure only after you are certain that it is safe to do so. If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, Dell recommends that you turn off AC power at the circuit breaker before attempting to remove the power cables from the electrical outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing wet cables from a live power source.

1. Turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, and then disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet.
   
   
2. Remove the battery.
   
   
3. Wipe off the battery and put it in a safe place to dry.
   
   
4. Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from the computer.
   
   
5. Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
   
   
6. Remove the module bay device (see "Module Bay Devices") and any installed PC Cards, wipe them off, and put them in a safe place to dry.
   
   
7. Remove the hard drive (see "Hard Drive Assembly").
   
   
8. Remove the memory modules (see "Memory Module").
   
   
9. Open the display and place the computer right-side up across two books or similar props to let air circulate all around it. Let the computer dry for 24–48 hours in a dry area at room temperature.
   
   

NOTICE: Do not use artificial means, such as a hair dryer or a fan, to speed the drying process.

CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is thoroughly dry before continuing with the rest of this procedure.

10. Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
    
    
11. Replace the memory modules, the memory module cover, and the screw(s).
    
    
12. Turn on the computer and verify that it is working properly.
    
    

The Dell™ logo should appear, and you will receive the message No operating system found.

13. Turn off the computer by pressing the power button.
    
    
14. Replace the hard drive.
    
    
15. Replace the module bay device and any PC Cards you removed.
    
    
16. Replace the battery.
    
    

HINT: See "Limited Warranties and Return Policy" in your Solutions Guide.

If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, see "Contacting Dell" in the Solutions Guide.

If You Drop or Damage Your Computer

1. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
   
   
2. Disconnect the AC adapter from the computer and from the electrical outlet.
   
   
3. Remove and reinstall the battery.
   
   
4. Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources and then from the computer.
   
   
5. Turn on the computer.
   
   

HINT: See "Limited Warranties and Return Policy" in your Solutions Guide.

If the computer does not start, or if you cannot identify the damaged components, see "Contacting Dell" in the Solutions Guide.

Resolving Other Technical Problems

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

E-mail Dell— Go to support.dell.com 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, see "Contacting Dell" in the Solutions Guide.

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

The Dell Drivers and Utilities CD for your computer contains drivers for operating systems that may not be on your computer. Verify that the driver you are loading is under your operating system subdirectory.

To reinstall drivers for optional devices such as wireless communications, DVD drives, and ZIP drives, see the software CD and documentation that came with those devices.

You can also access and download new drivers, system tools, and documentation from the Dell|Support website at support.dell.com. For more information on using the operating system installed on your computer by Dell, see the operating system user's guide that came with your computer.

NOTICE: Before you reinstall drivers, make sure that your computer is undocked.

To install a driver or utility from your Drivers and Utilities CD:

1. Save your work in all open programs.
   
   
2. Insert your Drivers and Utilities CD into the CD or DVD drive.
   
   

In most cases, the CD should start running automatically. If it does not, start Microsoft® Windows® Explorer, click your CD drive directory to display the CD contents, and then double-click the autocd.exe file. The first time that you run the CD, it might prompt you to install setup files. Click OK, and follow the instructions on the screen to continue.

3. From the Language pull-down menu in the toolbar, select your preferred language for the driver or utility (if available).
   
   

A welcome screen appears.

4. Click Next.
   
   
5. Under Search Criteria, select the appropriate categories from the System Model, Operating System, Device Type, and Topic pull-down menus.
   
   

A link or links appear(s) for the specific drivers or utilities used by your computer.

6. Click the link of a specific driver or utility to display information about the driver or utility that you want to install.
   
   
7. Click the Install button (if present) to begin installing the driver or utility. At the welcome screen, follow the screen prompts to complete the installation.
   
   

If no Install button is present, automatic installation is not an option. For installation instructions, either see the appropriate instructions in the following subsections, or click the Extract button, follow the extracting instructions, and read the readme file.

If instructed to navigate to the driver files, click the CD directory on the driver information window to display the files associated with that driver.

Using the Windows XP Device Driver Rollback

If you install a new device driver that causes system instability, you can use the Windows XP Device Driver Rollback to replace the new device driver with the previously installed version of the device driver. If you cannot reinstall your previous driver by using the Device Driver Rollback process, then see "Using System Restore" to return your operating system to its previous operating state before you installed the new device driver. To use Device Driver Rollback:

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.
   
   

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

Reinstalling the Modem or Network Adapter Driver (Windows XP)

1. Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD into the CD or DVD drive.
   
   
2. Click the Start button, and click Control Panel.
   
   
3. Under Pick a category, click Performance and Maintenance.
   
   
4. Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click System.
   
   
5. Click the Hardware tab.
   
   
6. Click Device Manager.
   
   
   • If you are installing a modem driver, click Modem and then click the appropriate modem.
     
     
   • If you are installing a network adapter, click Network adapters and then click 3Com 3C920 Integrated Fast Ethernet Controller.
     
     
7. Click Action, and then click Update Driver.
   
   
8. Click Install from a list or specific location (Advanced), and then click Next.
   
   
9. Verify that Search removable media is selected, and then click Next.
   
   
10. When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.
    
    
11. Click Finish and restart your computer.
    
    

Reinstalling the Modem or Network Adapter Driver (Windows 2000)

1. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and insert your Drivers and Utilities CD.
   
   
2. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
   
   
3. Double-click the System icon.
   
   
4. Click the Hardware tab.
   
   
5. Click Device Manager.
   
   
   • If you are installing a modem driver, click Modem and then click the appropriate modem.
     
     
   • If you are installing a network adapter, click Network adapters and then click 3Com 3C920 Integrated Fast Ethernet Controller.
     
     
6. Click Action, and then click Properties.
   
   
7. Click the Driver tab, click Update driver, and then click Next.
   
   
8. Verify that Search for a suitable driver for my device (Recommended) is selected, and then click Next.
   
   
9. Verify that CD-ROM drives is selected, and then click Next.
   
   
10. When the name of the appropriate driver appears, click Next.
    
    
11. Click Finish and restart your computer.
    
    

Reinstalling the Modem or Network Adapter Driver (Windows Me)

1. Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and insert your Drivers and Utilities CD.
   
   
2. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
   
   
3. Double-click the System icon.
   
   

HINT: To see the System icon, you may need to click the View all control panel options link at the left side of the screen.

4. Click the Device Manager tab.
   
   
   • If you are installing a modem driver, click Modem and then click the appropriate modem.
     
     
   • If you are installing a network adapter driver, click Network adapters and then click 3Com 3C920 Integrated Fast Ethernet Controller.
     
     
5. Click Properties and click the Driver tab.
   
   
6. Click Update Driver.
   
   
7. Verify that Automatic search for a better driver (Recommended) is selected, and then click Next.
   
   
8. Click Finish, and then click Yes to restart the computer.
   
   

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Windows XP, Windows Me, and Windows 2000 IRQ conflicts occur if a device either is not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured. See the following subsection that corresponds to your operating system to check for IRQ conflicts on your computer.

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 Device Manager.
   
   
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 that you can determine what items need to be reconfigured or removed from the Device Manager.
   
   
6. Resolve the device conflicts before checking specific devices.
   
   
7. Double-click the malfunctioning device type in the Device Manager list.
   
   
8. Double-click the icon for the specific device in the expanded list.
   
   

The Properties window appears.

If an IRQ conflict exists, the Device status area in the Properties window reports what other devices are sharing the device's IRQ.

9. Resolve any IRQ conflicts.
   
   

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 Me

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel.
   
   
2. Double-click the System icon.
   
   
3. Click the Device Manager tab.
   
   
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.
   
   
6. Resolve these conflicts before checking specific devices.
   
   
7. Double-click the malfunctioning device type in the Device Manager list.
   
   
8. Double-click the icon for the specific device in the expanded list.
   
   

The Properties window appears.

If an IRQ conflict exists, the Device status area in the Properties window reports what other devices are sharing the device's IRQ.

9. Resolve any IRQ conflicts.
   
   

You can also use the Windows Me Hardware Troubleshooter. To use the troubleshooter, click the Start button and click Help. Click Troubleshooting in the What would you like help with? list, click Hardware & system device problems, click Hardware, memory, & others, and then click Hardware Troubleshooter. In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer, and then click Next.

Windows 2000

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel.
   
   
2. Double-click the System icon.
   
   
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 that 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.

If an IRQ conflict exists, the Device status area in the Properties window reports what other devices are sharing the device's IRQ.

10. 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 and Windows Me provide a System Restore feature that allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state if changes to the computer hardware or software (including new hardware or program installations) or system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. You can also undo the last System Restore procedure.

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 are automatically purged.

To resolve 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 operating state. If you restore the computer to an operating state that existed before you installed a program, for example, the program's data files will not be lost, but you will have to reinstall the actual program.

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 if the data becomes inaccessible because of a hard disk malfunction, use your backup files to recover the lost or damaged data.

System Restore is enabled on your new computer. However, if you reinstall Windows XP or Windows Me with less than 200 MB of free hard-disk space available, System Restore is automatically disabled. Before you use System Restore, see the following subsections to confirm that it is enabled.

Windows XP

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 not checked.
   
   

Windows Me

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
   
   
2. Double-click the System icon.
   
   
3. Click the Performance tab.
   
   
4. Click File System.
   
   
5. Click the Troubleshooting tab, and make sure that Disable System Restore is not checked.
   
   

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

1. Click the Start button, point to All Programs (point to Programs in Windows Me)—> 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 System Restore Wizard

In Windows XP, you can either use the System Restore Wizard or manually create a restore point. To use the System Restore Wizard, click the Start button, click Help and Support, click System Restore, and then follow the instructions on the System Restore Wizard 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 a Restore Point

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

The present date and time are automatically added to the description of the new restore point.

5. Click Create (click Next in Windows Me).
   
   
6. Click OK (click Close in Windows Me).
   
   

Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State

If problems occur after you install a device driver, try using Device Driver Rollback. If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, see "Using System Restore."

NOTICE: Before restoring the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close all open files and exit 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 (point to Programs in
   Windows Me)—> Accessories—> System Tools, and then click System Restore.
   
   
2. Be sure Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected, and click Next.
   
   
3. Click the calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
   
   

The Select a Restore Point (Choose a Restore Point in Windows Me) screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select restore points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in bold.

4. Click to select a restore point and click Next.
   
   

If a calendar date has only one restore point, that restore point is automatically selected. If two or more restore points are available, click to select the restore point that you want to use.

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

5. Click Next (click OK in Windows Me).
   
   

In Windows XP, the Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data, and then the computer automatically restarts.

In Windows Me, the Restoration in Progress screen appears, 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: Save and close all open files and exit 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 (point to Programs in Windows Me)—> Accessories—> System Tools, and then click System Restore.
   
   
2. Click Undo my last restoration and click Next.
   
   

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

3. Click Next (click OK in Windows Me).
   
   
4. The System Restore (Undoing Last Restoration in Windows Me) screen appears, and then the computer automatically restarts.
   
   
5. After the computer restarts, click OK.
   
   

Reinstalling Windows®

Reinstalling Windows XP

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

NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling the 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.

1. Insert the Operating System CD into the CD or DVD drive.
   
   
2. Shut down the computer, and then turn on the computer.
   
   
3. Press any key when the Press any key to boot from CD message appears on the screen.
   
   
4. When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press to select To set up Windows now.
   
   
5. Read the information in the License Agreement window, and then press on your keyboard to agree with the license information.
   
   
6. 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 to select

the fresh copy option, and then press on the next screen to select the highlighted partition (recommended). Then follow the instructions on the screen.

7. The Windows XP Setup screen appears and Windows XP begins to copy files and install the device drivers. 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, and follow the instructions on the screen to finish the installation.
   
   
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 in the Computer Name window, and then click Next.
    
    

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

12. If you have a modem installed, 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 your computer has a network adapter, select the appropriate network settings. If your computer does not have a network adapter, this option does not appear.
    
    

Windows XP installs its components and configures 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 instructions on the screen to finish the installation.
    
    
16. Remove the CD from the drive.
    
    
17. Reinstall the appropriate drivers. See "Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities."
    
    
18. Reinstall your virus protection software.
    
    

Reinstalling Windows Me

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

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 Me, you must disable any virus protection software installed on your computer before you reinstall Windows.

1. Turn on the computer, and enter the system setup program as directed by a Dell technical support representative or by performing the following steps:
   
   
   3. Shut down the computer, and then turn on the computer.
      
      
   4. Before the computer boots into Windows, press to enter the system setup program.
      
      
   5. Press to move to the Boot menu.
      
      
   6. In the system setup program Boot menu, follow the instructions on the screen to change the boot sequence so that the CD or DVD drive boots first. Then insert the Operating System CD into the drive.
      
      
   7. Press to save your changes and exit the system setup program.
      
      
   8. Press any key to boot the computer from the CD.
      
      
2. At the Welcome window, click OK.
   
   
3. Double-click Refresh Windows OS.
   
   
4. Click OK.
   
   
5. Click OK again. The installation takes 25-45 minutes.
   
   
6. Remove the Operating System CD from the drive, and click OK to restart your computer.
   
   

The Getting ready to run Windows for the first time window appears.

7. If the mouse tutorial starts, press to exit and then press .
   
   
8. Click the setting for the region closest to where you live, and then click Next.
   
   
9. Click the graphic that matches your keyboard layout, and then click Next.
   
   
10. In the User Information window, type your name and, optionally, company name, and then click Next.
    
    

Read the License Agreement.

11. Click I accept the Agreement, and then click Next.
    
    
12. 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 on the computer.

13. When the Start Wizard window appears, click Finish.
    
    

The Enter Windows Password window appears. Type your user name and password and click OK, or click OK to continue without setting a password.

14. If the Date/Time Properties window appears, adjust the date and time properties, click Apply, and then click OK.
    
    

Windows updates the system settings and restarts your computer.

15. If you set a password in step 13, type your password and click OK. If you did not set a password, click OK.
    
    
16. Reinstall the appropriate drivers.
    
    
17. Reenable your virus protection software.
    
    

Reinstalling Windows 2000

NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling the 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.

1. Turn on the computer, and enter the system setup program as directed by a Dell technical support representative or by performing the following steps:
   
   
   1. Shut down the computer, and then turn on the computer.
      
      
   2. Before the computer boots into Windows, press to enter the system setup program.
      
      
   3. Press to move to the Boot menu.
      
      
   4. In the system setup program Boot menu, follow the instructions on the screen to change the boot sequence so that the CD or DVD drive boots first. Then insert the Operating System CD into the drive.
      
      
   5. Press to save your changes and exit the system setup program.
      
      
   6. Press any key to boot the computer from the CD.
      
      
2. When the Windows 2000 Setup window appears, ensure that the To setup Win2000 now, press ENTER option is highlighted. Then press .
   
   
3. Read the information in the License Agreement window, and then press to continue.
   
   
4. When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup window appears, press the arrow keys to select the Windows 2000 partition option that you want. Then press the key for the partition option you chose.
   
   
5. When the Windows 2000 Professional Setup window reappears, press the arrow keys to select the type of file system that you want Windows 2000 to use, and then press . The installation takes 25-45 minutes.
   
   
6. Press again to restart your computer.
   
   
7. Click Next when the Welcome to the Windows 2000 Setup Wizard window appears.
   
   
8. When the Regional Settings window appears, select your region, and then click Next.
   
   
9. Enter your name and organization in the Personalize Your Software window, and then click Next.
   
   
10. Enter the Windows product key, which is printed on the Microsoft label on your computer. Then click Next.
    
    
11. When the Computer Name and Administrator Password window appears, enter a name for your computer and a password, if desired. Then click Next.
    
    
12. Enter the date and time in the Date and Time Settings window, and then click Next.
    
    

Windows 2000 installs components and configures the computer.

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

The computer automatically restarts.

Enabling Hibernate Support

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel.
   
   
2. Double-click the Power Management icon.
   
   
3. Click the Hibernate tab.
   
   
4. Ensure that Enable hibernate support is selected, and click Apply.
   
   
5. Click OK to close the Control Panel.
   
   

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