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Dell OptiPlex 755 User Manual

Dell OptiPlex 755
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www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Dell™ OptiPlex™ 755
User’s Guide
Models: DCTR, DCNE, DCSM, and DCCY

Table of Contents

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Dell OptiPlex 755 Specifications

General IconGeneral
ChipsetIntel Q35 Express
MemoryUp to 8GB DDR2 SDRAM
Optical DriveDVD-ROM, DVD+/-RW
AudioIntegrated High Definition Audio
Form FactorMini Tower, Desktop, Small Form Factor, Ultra Small Form Factor
Processor OptionsIntel Core 2 Duo
StorageSATA HDD, up to 1TB
GraphicsIntegrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 3100
NetworkIntegrated Gigabit Ethernet
Expansion SlotsPCI, PCIe x1, PCIe x16
PortsUSB 2.0, VGA, serial, parallel, PS/2, audio in/out
Operating SystemWindows Vista, Windows XP

Summary

Notes, Notices, and Cautions

Before You Begin

Recommended Tools

Lists essential tools required for component removal and installation procedures.

Turning Off Your Computer

Provides steps to safely shut down the operating system and power off the computer.

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Outlines essential safety guidelines for preventing hardware damage and personal injury.

Mini Tower Computer

About Your Mini Tower Computer

Details the physical layout and components of the Mini Tower computer model.

Removing the Computer Cover

Step-by-step instructions for safely removing the computer's outer casing.

Inside Your Computer

Visual guide to major internal components and their locations within the computer.

Chassis Intrusion Switch

Explains the function and location of the optional chassis intrusion detection switch.

System Board Components

Identifies and labels key components and connectors on the system motherboard.

Mini Tower Computer Specifications

Microprocessor

Details the supported Intel processors, cache specifications, and features.

Memory

Specifies memory type, connectors, supported modules, minimum/maximum capacity.

Computer Information

Lists chipset, data bus width, DMA channels, interrupt levels, BIOS chip, and NIC details.

Cards

Installing a PCI or PCI Express Card

Provides instructions for installing expansion cards into PCI and PCI Express slots.

Installing eSATA

Installing eSATA Without a Riser

Steps for installing an eSATA connector without using a riser card.

Drives

General Drive Installation Guidelines

Outlines rules for connecting SATA devices, including hard drives and optical drives.

Processor

Removing the Processor

Detailed steps for safely removing the CPU and its associated heat sink assembly.

I/O Panel

Removing the I/O Panel

Instructions for detaching the Input/Output panel from the computer's front or rear.

Power Supply

Replacing the Power Supply

Step-by-step guide for removing and replacing the internal power supply unit.

Speakers

Installing a Speaker

Instructions for connecting and mounting the internal computer speaker.

Desktop Computer

About Your Desktop Computer

Describes the front view and key features of the Desktop computer model.

Back View

Illustrates and identifies the connectors and ports on the rear of the Desktop computer.

Back Panel Connectors

Details the function of each connector found on the computer's back panel.

Removing the Computer Cover

Provides step-by-step instructions for removing the external case cover.

Inside Your Computer

Shows the internal layout and placement of major components within the Desktop computer.

Chassis Intrusion Switch

Explains the function and location of the optional chassis intrusion detection switch.

Removing the Heat Sink Assembly

Steps for safely detaching the heat sink assembly from the processor.

System Board Components

Identifies and labels the various components and connectors on the system motherboard.

Cards

Installing a PCI Card

Guide for installing a PCI expansion card into the motherboard slot.

PS/2 Serial Port Adapter

Installing a PS/2 Serial Port Adapter

Instructions for installing a PS/2 serial port adapter for additional connectivity.

eSATA

Installing eSATA Without a Riser

Steps for installing an eSATA connector without using a riser card.

Drives

General Installation Guidelines

Outlines rules for connecting SATA devices, including hard drives and optical drives.

Processor

Removing the Processor

Detailed steps for safely removing the CPU and its associated heat sink assembly.

I/O Panel

Removing the I/O Panel

Instructions for detaching the Input/Output panel from the computer.

Power Supply

Replacing the Power Supply

Step-by-step guide for removing and replacing the internal power supply unit.

Speakers

Installing a Speaker

Instructions for connecting and mounting the internal computer speaker.

Small Form Factor Computer

About Your Small Form Factor Computer

Describes the front view and key features of the Small Form Factor computer model.

Removing the Computer Cover

Provides step-by-step instructions for removing the external case cover.

Inside Your Computer

Shows the internal layout and placement of major components.

Chassis Intrusion Switch

Explains the function and location of the optional chassis intrusion detection switch.

Small Form Factor Computer Specifications

Microprocessor

Details the supported Intel processors, cache specifications, and features.

Memory

Specifies memory type, connectors, supported modules, and capacity.

Computer Information

Lists chipset, bus width, DMA channels, BIOS chip, and NIC details.

Video

Details integrated graphics and PCI Express slot capabilities for video output.

Cards

Installing a PCI Card

Guide for installing a PCI expansion card into the motherboard slot.

PS/2 Serial Port Adapter

Installing a PS/2 Serial Port Adapter

Instructions for installing a PS/2 serial port adapter.

eSATA

Installing eSATA

Guide for installing an eSATA connector, supporting hot-plugging.

Drives

General Installation Guidelines

Rules for connecting SATA devices, including hard drives and optical drives.

Processor

Removing the Processor

Steps for safely removing the CPU and its heat sink assembly for USFF computers.

Speakers

Installing a Speaker

Instructions for connecting and mounting the internal computer speaker for USFF.

Ultra Small Form Factor Computer

About Your Ultra Small Form Factor Computer

Describes the front view and key features of the USFF computer model.

Removing the Computer Cover

Provides step-by-step instructions for removing the external case cover.

Inside Your Computer

Shows the internal layout and placement of major components.

Chassis Intrusion Switch

Explains the function and location of the optional chassis intrusion switch.

System Board Components

ultra small form factor system board

Identifies and labels components on the USFF system motherboard.

Ultra Small Form Factor Computer Specifications

Microprocessor

Details supported Intel processors, cache specifications, and features for USFF models.

Memory

Specifies memory type, connectors, supported modules, and capacity for USFF systems.

Computer Information

Lists chipset, bus width, DMA channels, BIOS chip, and NIC details for USFF computers.

Video

Details integrated graphics and dual-monitor support for USFF models.

Drives

General Installation Guidelines

Rules for connecting SATA devices, including hard drives and optical drives.

Processor

Removing the Processor

Steps for safely removing the CPU and its heat sink assembly for USFF computers.

Speakers

Installing a Speaker

Instructions for connecting and mounting the internal computer speaker for USFF.

Advanced Features

LegacySelect Technology Control

Manages BIOS settings to enable or disable various hardware connectors and media devices.

Manageability

Introduces DASH initiative and management profiles for enhanced system management.

DASH

Details the Desktop and mobile Architecture for System Hardware management standard.

Physical Security

Chassis Intrusion Detection

Detects chassis opening and alerts the user; configurable in system setup.

Padlock Ring and Security Cable Slot

Describes methods for physically securing the computer using locks and cables.

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

Enabling the TPM Feature

Steps to enable the hardware-based security feature for encryption and key management.

Security Management Software

Computer Tracking Software

Optional software to help locate a lost or stolen computer.

About Smart Cards and Fingerprint Readers

Information on using smart cards and fingerprint readers for enhanced security.

Password Protection

System Password

Explains how to assign, change, or delete a system password via system setup.

Assigning a System Password

Step-by-step guide to setting a new system password through system setup.

Administrator Password

Assigning an Administrator Password

Guide to setting an administrator password, which can also serve as an alternate system password.

System Setup

Overview

Explains the purpose and uses of the system setup utility for hardware configuration.

Entering System Setup

Instructions on how to access the BIOS setup program during computer startup.

System Setup Screens

System Setup Options

Lists and describes the various configuration options available within system setup.

Drives

Diskette Drive

System setup option to enable or disable the floppy drive.

SATA 0 through SATA n

System setup options for identifying and enabling/disabling SATA drives.

External SATA

System setup option to enable/disable drives connected via eSATA.

SATA Operation

Configures SATA controller mode (RAID, AHCI, ATA) for drives.

SMART Reporting

Determines if integrated drive errors are reported during startup.

Onboard Devices

Integrated NIC

System setup option to enable or disable the integrated network interface controller.

Integrated Audio

System setup option to enable or disable the onboard audio controller.

USB Controller

Rear Quad/Triad USB

System setup option to enable/disable the upper rear USB ports.

Rear Dual USB

System setup option to enable/disable the lower rear USB ports.

Front USB

System setup option to enable/disable the front USB ports.

PCI Slots

System setup option to enable/disable all PCI and PCI Express slots.

LPT Port Mode

Configures the operating mode for the internal parallel port.

Serial Port #1

Configures the operation and designation of the primary serial port.

Serial Port #2

Configures the secondary serial port, available with a PS/2 adapter.

Video

Primary Video

Specifies which video controller (onboard or card) is set as primary.

Performance

HyperThreading

Option to enable or disable Intel Hyperthreading technology for enhanced performance.

Multiple CPU Core

Option to enable or disable the second CPU core for improved multitasking.

Virtualization

Enables or disables Intel Virtualization technology for virtual machine support.

VT for Direct I/O

Allows VMM to use hardware capabilities for Direct IO, improving performance.

Trusted Execution

Enables Intel Trusted Execution Technology for enhanced security.

Virtual Appliance

Enables Intel Embedded Information Technology for virtual appliance support.

VA Config Lock

Locks or unlocks the Virtual Appliance ACPI Configuration Interface.

SpeedStep

Enables Intel SpeedStep for processor power and frequency management.

Limit CPUID Value

Limits the maximum CPUID function value to prevent OS installation issues.

HDD Acoustic Mode

Adjusts hard drive acoustics for quiet or performance modes.

Security

Unlock Setup

Allows modification of system setup settings after entering the administrator password.

Admin Password

System Password

Displays status and allows assignment/verification of the system password.

SATA 0-n Password

Displays status and allows assignment/verification of hard drive passwords.

Password Changes

Controls interaction between system and admin passwords for security.

Chassis Intrusion

Manages chassis intrusion detection settings and alerts.

TPM Security

Enables or disables the Trusted Platform Module security device.

TPM Activation

Activates or deactivates the TPM security device.

Execute Disable

Enables or disables Execute Disable memory protection technology.

Computrace

Enables/disables the BIOS interface for the Computrace service.

Power Management

Auto Power On

Sets the computer to automatically turn on at a scheduled time.

Auto Power Time

Specifies the time for automatic computer startup.

Low Power Mode

Disables remote wake-up events from Hibernate/Off states.

Remote Wake-Up

Allows computer power-up via network interface or modem.

Suspend Mode

Configures the computer's suspend mode (S1 or S3) for power saving.

Maintenance

Service Tag

Displays the unique service tag for identifying the computer.

SERR Message

Option to disable SERR messages, potentially required by some graphics cards.

Load Defaults

Restores system setup options to their original factory defaults.

Event Log

Allows viewing and clearing of system event logs.

POST Behavior

Fastboot

Reduces startup time by bypassing some compatibility checks during POST.

Boot Sequence

Option Settings

Defines the order in which the computer attempts to boot from various devices.

Booting to a USB Device

Memory Key

Instructions for booting the computer from a USB memory key.

Floppy Drive

Jumper Settings

Illustrates jumper settings for PSWD and RTCRST on system boards.

Clearing Forgotten Passwords

Jumper Settings

Describes how to use jumpers to clear system and administrator passwords.

Clearing CMOS Settings

Reset the current CMOS settings

Steps to reset BIOS settings by manipulating jumpers on the system board.

Hyperthreading and Multi-Core Technology

Power Management for Windows XP and Windows Vista

Explains how Windows power management features conserve electricity.

Options in Windows XP

Details Windows XP power saving modes like Standby and Hibernate.

Standby Mode

Conserves power by turning off display and hard drive after a timeout.

Sleep Mode

Hibernate Mode

Conserves power by saving system data to hard drive and turning off computer.

Configuring Power Management Settings

How to adjust power settings using Windows Power Options Properties.

About RAID Configurations

Overview of RAID configurations supported by Dell computers.

Verifying That RAID Is Working

RAID Level 0

Explains RAID 0 (data striping) for high data-access rates.

RAID Level 1 Configuration

Configuring Your Computer for RAID

Methods for configuring RAID volumes using Intel utilities.

Setting Your Computer to RAID-Enabled Mode

Steps to enable RAID functionality in system setup.

Configuring Your Computer for RAID Using the Intel RAID Option ROM Utility

Creating a RAID Level 0 Configuration

Detailed steps to create a RAID 0 (striped) volume using Intel RAID Option ROM utility.

Creating a RAID Level 0 Configuration

Creating a RAID Level 1 Configuration

Detailed steps to create a RAID 1 (mirrored) volume using Intel RAID Option ROM utility.

Recovering From a Single Hard Drive Failure (RAID 1) Using the Intel Matrix Storage Manager

Turn on or restart your computer.

Initial step in the recovery process after a RAID 1 drive failure.

Battery

Replacing the Battery

Instructions for safely removing and replacing the CMOS coin-cell battery.

Replacing the System Board

Removing the System Board: Mini Tower, Desktop, Small Form Factor, and Ultra Small Form Factor Computers

Comprehensive guide to removing the motherboard across various form factors.

Memory

DDR2 Memory Overview

Explains characteristics and installation guidelines for DDR2 memory modules.

Addressing Memory Configurations

Installing Memory

Step-by-step guide for installing memory modules into DIMM connectors.

Removing Memory

Grasp the module and pull up.

Instructions for safely removing memory modules from their connectors.

Replacing the Computer Cover

Mini-Tower, Desktop, and Small Form Factor Computers

Steps for replacing the computer cover on common form factor models.

Ultra Small Form Factor Computers

Steps for replacing the computer cover specifically for the USFF model.

Installing Your Computer in an Enclosure

Use the following guidelines when installing your computer in an enclosure.

Guidelines to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating when placing the computer in an enclosure.

Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor

Safety precautions and methods for cleaning the computer, keyboard, and monitor.

Mouse

Procedures for cleaning non-optical and optical mice to resolve cursor issues.

Floppy Drive

CDs and DVDs

Tips for cleaning CDs and DVDs to resolve playback issues like skipping.

Microsoft® Windows® Features

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Information on using OS wizards to transfer files and settings between computers.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Details the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard for migrating data in Windows XP.

Microsoft Windows Vista®

Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Transfer files and settings→ Start Windows Easy Transfer.

Instructions for using Windows Vista's Easy Transfer wizard to move files and settings.

Setting Up a Home and Office Network

Connecting to a Network Adapter

Steps for physically connecting a network cable to the computer's network adapter.

Network Setup

Wizard-based setup for configuring network connections in Windows XP.

Windows Vista

To make changes to your network setup in Microsoft® Windows Vista®:

Steps for configuring network settings within Windows Vista's Network and Sharing Center.

Troubleshooting

Battery Problems

Addresses issues related to battery replacement and potential hazards.

Card Problems

Guides on checking expansion card seating and connections for proper function.

Drive Problems

CHECK THE CARD SEATING AND CABLE

Verifies proper seating and connection of expansion cards and their cables.

TEST THE GRAPHICS CARD

Procedure to test the graphics card by isolating it and running diagnostics.

TEST THE CARDS

Method for testing individual expansion cards by reinstalling them one by one.

ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE

TEST THE DRIVE

Steps to test the drive's functionality by inserting different media.

CLEAN THE DRIVE O R DISK

Refers to cleaning procedures for drives and discs.

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

Verifies that drive cables are properly connected.

RU N THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER

Recommends using the hardware troubleshooter for OS-related issues.

RU N THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS

Suggests running Dell Diagnostics for hardware issue diagnosis.

Optical drive problems

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL

How to adjust volume settings in Windows for audio output.

CHECK THE SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFER

Verifies speaker and subwoofer connections and functionality.

Problems writing to an optical drive

Troubleshooting tips for issues encountered when writing data to optical media.

TURN OFF STANDBY MODE I N WINDOWS BEFORE WRITING T O A DISC

Recommends disabling power saving modes before writing to discs.

Hard drive problems

RU N CHECK DISK

Instructions to run the Check Disk utility for hard drive error scanning.

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

CHECK THE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK® EXPRESS SECURITY SETTINGS

Adjusts Outlook Express security settings to allow email attachments.

CHECK THE TELEPHONE LINE CONNECTION

Verifies the physical telephone line connection for modem operation.

RU N THE MODEM DIAGNOSTIC TOOL

Utilizes the Modem Helper tool for diagnosing modem communication issues.

Error Messages

A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY O F THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERS

Specifies invalid characters that cannot be used in filenames.

A REQUIRED .DLL FILE WAS NOT FOUND

Addresses missing DLL files, suggesting program reinstallation.

drive letter :\ I S NOT ACCESSIBLE. TH E DEVICE I S NOT READY

Error indicating the drive cannot be read or is not ready, possibly requiring disk insertion.

Keyboard Problems

CHECK THE KEYBOARD CABLE

Verifies the keyboard cable connection and integrity.

TEST THE KEYBOARD

Procedure to test keyboard functionality with a known working unit.

RU N THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER

Recommends using the hardware troubleshooter for keyboard issues.

Lockups and Software Problems

The computer does not start up

Troubleshooting steps when the computer fails to power on or initiate.

The computer stops responding

Guidance on handling situations where the computer becomes unresponsive.

A program stops responding

Steps to terminate unresponsive programs via Task Manager.

A program crashes repeatedly

CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION

Consults software documentation for troubleshooting installation issues.

RU N THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD

Configures programs to run in an environment similar to older Windows versions.

A solid blue screen appears

TURN THE COMPUTER OFF

Procedure to restart the computer after encountering a blue screen error.

Other software problems

General advice for resolving software issues by checking compatibility and documentation.

Memory Problems

IF YOU RECEIVE A N INSUFFICIENT MEMORY MESSAGE

Addresses low memory errors by closing programs or adding more RAM.

IF YOU EXPERIENCE OTHER MEMORY PROBLEMS

Covers reseating modules, checking compatibility, and running diagnostics for memory issues.

Mouse Problems

CHECK THE MOUSE CABLE

Verifies the mouse cable connection and integrity.

RESTART THE COMPUTER

Steps to restart the computer to resolve mouse issues.

TEST THE MOUSE

Procedure to test mouse functionality with a known working unit.

CHECK THE MOUSE SETTINGS

Adjusts mouse settings in Windows to resolve cursor problems.

Network Problems

CHECK THE NETWORK CABLE CONNECTOR

Ensures the network cable is securely inserted into the computer and jack.

CHECK THE NETWORK LIGHTS O N THE BACK O F THE COMPUTER

Verifies network communication status via link integrity lights.

RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG O N T O THE NETWORK AGAIN

Reconnects to the network after restarting the computer.

CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS

Verifies network configuration with administrator or IT support.

RU N THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER

Recommends using the hardware troubleshooter for network issues.

Power Problems

Troubleshooting Power Problems

Comprehensive guide to diagnosing power-related issues based on computer lights.

IF THE POWER LIGHT I S GREEN AND THE COMPUTER I S NOT RESPONDING

Addresses issues where the computer is unresponsive despite a green power light.

IF THE POWER LIGHT I S BLINKING GREEN

Indicates the computer is in standby mode; how to resume normal operation.

IF THE POWER LIGHT I S OFF

Troubleshooting steps for when the computer is turned off or not receiving power.

IF THE POWER LIGHT I S BLINKING AMBER

IF THE POWER LIGHT I S STEADY AMBER

Indicates a potential device malfunction or incorrect installation, requiring component checks.

ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE

Suggests steps to identify and eliminate electrical interference affecting performance.

Power Supply Self-Test

Instructions for performing a self-test on the power supply unit to diagnose issues.

Printer Problems

CHECK THE PRINTER DOCUMENTATION

Advises consulting printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting.

ENSURE THAT THE PRINTER I S TURNED O N

Verifies that the printer is powered on.

CHECK THE PRINTER CABLE CONNECTIONS

Ensures printer cables are securely connected.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET

Verifies the functionality of the electrical outlet.

VERIFY THAT THE PRINTER I S RECOGNIZED B Y WINDOWS

Checks if Windows correctly detects and recognizes the installed printer.

Scanner Problems

CHECK THE SCANNER DOCUMENTATION

Advises consulting scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting.

UNLOCK THE SCANNER

Ensures the scanner is unlocked before use.

CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS

Verifies that scanner cables are securely connected.

VERIFY THAT THE SCANNER I S RECOGNIZED B Y MICROSOFT WINDOWS

Checks if Windows detects and recognizes the scanner.

Sound and Speaker Problems

No sound from speakers

Troubleshooting steps when there is no audio output from the speakers.

CHECK THE SPEAKER CABLE CONNECTIONS

Verifies that speaker cables are correctly connected.

No sound from headphones

CHECK THE HEADPHONE CABLE CONNECTION

Verifies the headphone cable connection to the computer.

ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL

Adjusts volume settings in Windows for audio output.

DISCONNECT HEADPHONES FROM THE HEADPHONE CONNECTOR

Explains that headphone connection disables speaker output.

TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET

Verifies the functionality of the electrical outlet.

ELIMINATE POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE

Suggests turning off nearby devices to check for interference.

RU N THE SPEAKER DIAGNOSTICS

Recommends running speaker diagnostics for audio issues.

REINSTALL THE SOUND DRIVER

Reinstalling the sound driver to resolve audio problems.

RU N THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER

Recommends using the hardware troubleshooter for audio issues.

Video and Monitor Problems

The screen is blank

Troubleshooting steps when the monitor displays no image.

The screen is difficult to read

Advice for improving screen readability, such as checking connections and settings.

CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION

Verifies the monitor cable connection, including adapters and extension cables.

3D image quality is poor

CHECK THE GRAPHICS CARD POWER CABLE CONNECTION

Ensures the graphics card power cable is properly attached.

CHECK THE MONITOR SETTINGS

Adjusts monitor settings for optimal display quality.

Power Lights

Explains the meaning of different states indicated by the computer's power button light.

System Lights

Power Light

Describes the states indicated by the power light (solid green, blinking green).

Diagnostic Lights

Light Pattern

Describes various light patterns and their corresponding problem descriptions and suggested resolutions.

Beep Codes

Code Cause

Lists beep codes, their causes, and potential solutions for memory or other hardware issues.

System Messages

Message Possible Cause Corrective Action

Table detailing system messages, their possible causes, and corrective actions.

Dell Diagnostics

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

Guidance on when to run Dell Diagnostics for troubleshooting computer problems.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

Instructions for initiating diagnostics from a partition on the computer's hard drive.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities CD (Optional)

Insert the Drivers and Utilities CD (optional).

Steps to start diagnostics using the provided CD media.

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

Option Function

Describes the available testing options (Express, Extended, Custom, Symptom Tree) within the diagnostics.

Drivers

What Is a Driver?

Explains the role of device drivers in controlling hardware and enabling software interaction.

Identifying Drivers

How to identify and troubleshoot driver-related problems for computer devices.

Microsoft® Windows® XP

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Guide on reinstalling drivers and utilities, emphasizing approved sources.

Using Windows Device Driver Rollback

Method to revert to a previous driver version if a new one causes issues.

Manually Reinstalling Drivers

Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems in the Microsoft® Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating Systems

Using the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve OS setup or configuration incompatibilities.

Restoring Your Operating System

Using Microsoft Windows System Restore

Returns the computer to an earlier state without affecting data files.

Starting System Restore

Undoing the Last System Restore

Procedure to reverse the effects of the most recent System Restore operation.

Enabling System Restore

Steps to ensure System Restore is active, primarily for Windows XP.

Using Dell™ PC Restore and Dell Factory Image Restore

Windows XP: Dell PC Restore

Restores the computer to its original factory state using PC Restore utility.

Removing PC Restore

Windows Vista: Dell Factory Image Restore

Restores the computer to factory state using Dell Factory Image Restore in Vista.

Using the Operating System Media

Reinstalling Windows XP or Windows Vista

Steps for reinstalling the Windows OS using provided media, including driver reinstallation.

Getting Help

Obtaining Assistance

Guides on how to get technical support and troubleshooting assistance from Dell.

Online Services

Accessing Dell's online support resources via the support.dell.com website.

AutoTech Service

Automated Order-Status Service

Service for checking the status of Dell product orders.

Support Service

Dell's support service for answering hardware questions and providing diagnostics.

Problems With Your Order

Product Information

Information on obtaining additional products or placing orders from Dell.

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Procedures for returning items for warranty repair or credit, including RMA process.

Before You Call

Tips to prepare before contacting Dell support, such as having service codes ready.

Diagnostics Checklist

Name:

Field to record the user's name for the checklist.

Date:

Field to record the date for the checklist.

Service Tag (bar code on the back or bottom of the computer):

Field to record the computer's unique Service Tag for support identification.

Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:

Field to record specific error codes or diagnostic output found during troubleshooting.

Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:

Space to document the issue and steps taken to resolve it.

Contacting Dell

Obtaining Assistance

Provides contact methods and procedures for obtaining technical support from Dell.

Warranty

FCC Notices (U.S. Only)

FCC Class B

Compliance information for Class B digital devices regarding radio frequency energy and interference.

Glossary

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