Dell 7500- Manuals

xi Preface About This Guide This guide is intended for anyone who uses a Dell portable computer. It can be used by both first-time and experienced computer users who want to learn about the features of the computer. This guide also provides basic troubleshooting procedures and instructions for using...

xii Warranty and Return Policy Information Dell Computer Corporation (“Dell”) manufactures its hardware products from parts and components that are new or equivalent to new in accordance with industry-standard practices. For information about the Dell warranty and return policy, see Appendix E, “War...

xiii Typographical Conventions The following list defines (where appropriate) and illustrates typographical conventions used as visual cues for specific elements of text throughout this document: • Interface components are window titles, button and icon names, menu names and selections, and other op...

xv Contents Chapter 1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Hardware Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Front View of the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...

xvii Chapter 4 Installing System Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 Installing the Windows 98 Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 Installing Drivers and Utilities forWindows 98 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...

xviii Appendix A Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1 Appendix B Using the Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1 Accessing the Setup Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2 Main Menu. ....

xix Appendix E Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E-1 Limited Three-Year Warranty (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1 Coverage During Year One. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....

xx Figure D-1. VCCI Class A ITE Regulatory Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-8 Figure D-2. VCCI Class B ITE Regulatory Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-8 Figure D-3. MOC Class A Regulatory Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....

support.dell.com Introduction 1-1 C H A P T E R 1 Introduction This chapter provides information about the major hardware and software features of your computer, as well as available upgrades. Hardware Features Your Dell™ Inspiron™ computer has the following hardware features: • An Intel ® microproc...

support.dell.com Introduction 1-3 • Universal Serial Bus (USB) capability, which provides a single connection point for multiple USB-compliant devices. You can also connect and disconnect USB-compliant devices while the system is running. NOTE: If you attach a USB device that was not included in you...

support.dell.com Introduction 1-5 NOTICE: Do not push objects into the air intake. Keep the opening free from dust and other foreign particles. When using the computer, do not block the air intake. NOTE: The fan spins at a very high rotational speed and makes a whirring sound. This phenomenon is nor...

support.dell.com Introduction 1-7 Software Features In addition to the operating system, the following software is included with your computer: • The Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition operating system, or the Microsoft Windows NT operating system. • A Setup program that lets you customize the oper...

1-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide • Advanced port replicator with a network interface controller (NIC) • Memory modules (32-, 64-, 128-, 192-, and 256-MB capacities) • Leather and nylon carrying cases • Microphone, external speakers, headphones • Network PC Cards To o...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-1 C H A P T E R 2 Options and Upgrades This chapter describes the installation procedures for the options and upgrades available from Dell for your computer. Using the AC Adapter Your AC adapter kit contains the AC adapter and an AC power cable (see Figure 2-1...

2-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide To connect the AC adapter (with your computer turned either on or off), perform the following steps and refer to Figure 2-1: 1. Connect the AC power cable to the AC adapter. 2. Plug the AC adapter cable into the AC adapter connector o...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-3 b. Push the latch lock to the unlocked position, and slide the latch release in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 2-2. Keep holding the latch release with one hand while pulling the device out of the media bay with the other. Figure 2-2. Removing a ...

2-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide To change a device in the MegaBay, perform the following steps: 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open application programs. 2. Turn off the computer. 3. Remove the currently installed device from the MegaBay: a. Close th...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-5 Installing a Battery This section describes how to install the main and the optional second lithium-ion batteries that provide power to your computer when AC power is not available. NOTE: You can install a lithium-ion battery in either the MegaBay or as a se...

2-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Attaching the Composite TV-Out Adapter Cable Your computer has a TV-out S-video connector for connecting a television to the computer. To connect a television, perform the following steps: 1. Save and close any open files, exit any op...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-7 NOTE: If you are outside the U.S., you may need to change the Television Type setting in the Setup program. See Appendix B, “Using the Setup Program,” for more information. Installing an Internal Hard-Disk Drive NOTE: If you ordered a second and/or third har...

2-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide C Figure 2-6. Removing the Internal Hard-Disk Drive 4. Push the hard-disk drive forward until it stops, and then pull it up. 5. Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging to use when storing or shipping the h...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-9 Returning a Hard-Disk Drive to Dell If you need to return your hard-disk drive, you must ship it to Dell in its original foam packaging (see Figure 2-7). Otherwise, the hard-disk drive may be damaged while in transit. Figure 2-7. Repackaging the Hard-Disk Dr...

2-10 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 3. Remove any installed batteries from the MegaBay and/or media bay. For instructions, refer to “Using the MegaBay” and/or “Using the Media Bay” found earlier in this chapter. 4. Ground yourself by touching a metal input/output (I/O)...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-13 5. At the MS-DOS prompt, type x :/ , where x is the drive letter of your CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive. Drive letter D is typical for CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drives. 6. Type cd\utility and press <Enter>. 7. Type phdisk /create /file and press <Enter>. NOTE:...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-1 C H A P T E R 3 Basic Troubleshooting This chapter guides you through some initial checks and procedures that can solve basic computer problems. It also provides detailed troubleshooting information and procedures to solve more complex problems. Complete th...

3-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide If you were trying to install new hardware, double-check configuration settings and available system resources. Refer to the documentation that accompanied the hardware device for more information. Also make sure you changed the appro...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-3 • Second battery or any other optional device installed in the media bay • Cables that connect external devices through the input/output (I/O) connectors and ports on the computer. Environmental Factors A number of external factors, including temperature ex...

3-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Modem NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog line only. Using a nonanalog line, such as a digital or private branch exchange (PBX) line, will damage the modem. NOTE: If your modem can dial and connect to one Internet service provider ...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-5 Windows 98 on your computer, you should already have virus-scanning software) to check for and remove any viruses. • Clean the disc with a soft, lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol. • Clean the drive as described in the next subsection, “Cleaning Diskette...

3-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide NOTE: Before you begin any of the troubleshooting procedures, make sure the Quiet Boot option is set to Disabled in the Main menu of the Setup program. See Appendix B, “Using the Setup Program,” for information on using the Setup prog...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-7 To fix this problem, correct the appropriate options in the Setup program. See Appendix B, “Using the Setup Program,” for detailed information about the Setup program and its options. If, after checking the setup options, you have not resolved the problem, ...

3-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide read the installation instructions before running a program’s installation routine. If you are instructed to modify the start-up files, see the documentation that came with the operating system for instructions. When you run the insta...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-9 result when other programs require use of all or part of the memory already occupied by these TSR programs. Typically, the operating system’s start-up files contain commands to start TSR programs when you boot the computer. If you suspect that one of these ...

3-10 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures This section provides troubleshooting procedures for integrated components (such as the display) and for external devices that connect to the computer (such as an external monitor). Before performing any of...

3-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 15. Does the computer work properly? Yes. The problem is resolved. No. If the computer is able to boot, run the Dell Diagnostics to identify computer damage. If the computer is unable to boot, see “Troubleshooting a Power Failure” fo...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-13 Troubleshooting a Power Failure Occasionally, you may experience a power failure in all or part of the computer. A total power failure is indicated by the absence of electrical activity (such as status indicators and sounds) from the keyboard, display, har...

3-14 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 9. Reseat (remove and reinstall) any installed batteries, and check the AC adapter connection. Does the power status indicator, to the right of the display latch, light up? Yes. The problem is resolved. No. If the computer is powered...

3-16 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide No Power to a Part of the Computer If the power status indicator shows that your computer is receiving power, but the display remains blank, part of your computer is probably not receiving power. To troubleshoot this problem, make a ...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-17 5. Remove and reinsert the diskette drive (or disconnect and reconnect the drive if used externally). Reboot the computer. Does the diskette-drive access indicator light up during the boot routine? Yes. Go to step 6. No. Go to step 9. 6. Does the computer ...

3-18 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 5. Remove and reinsert the drive. Reboot the computer. Does the drive access indicator blink during the boot routine? Yes. Go to step 6. No. Go to step 10. 6. Remove the hard-disk drive and boot the computer from a bootable CD. Does ...

3-20 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 9. Call Dell for technical assistance. See Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” for instructions. Troubleshooting an External Keyboard When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional. During POST, the com...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-21 8. Turn off the computer and disconnect the external keyboard from the computer. 9. Turn on the computer. Does the computer recognize the integrated keyboard? Allow one minute for the computer to initialize its components. Then use the computer’s integrate...

3-22 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 8. Reboot the computer, and press <F2> when prompted to enter the Setup program. 9. In the Main menu of the Setup program, make sure that the value in the Extended Memory field is at least 15 MB. Yes. A memory module was loose;...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-23 6. Turn on the computer. Is the display on? Allow one minute for the computer to initialize its components. Yes. Go to step 7. No. Go to step 9. 7. Press the <Fn> down-arrow or <Fn> up-arrow key combination to adjust the brightness. Is the full...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-25 Troubleshooting the Serial and Parallel Ports This section provides a procedure for troubleshooting the computer’s serial and parallel ports and any attached peripheral devices. If a system error message indicates a port problem or if equipment connected t...

3-26 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 4. Change the necessary statements in the start-up files. If the port problem is confined to a particular application program, see the application program’s documentation for specific port configuration requirements. Is the problem r...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-27 5. Run the parallel printer’s self-test. Does the self-test complete successfully? Yes. Go to step 6. No. The printer is probably defective. If you bought the printer from Dell, call Dell for technical assistance. (See Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” for instru...

3-28 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting the Infrared Port This section provides a procedure for troubleshooting the computer’s infrared (IR) port. Make a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist found in Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” and fill it out as you perform th...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-29 2. Do the tests complete successfully? Yes. The controller is functioning properly. If the problem persists, call Dell for technical assistance. (See Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” for instructions.) No. Go to step 3. 3. Insert your diagnostics diskette into d...

3-30 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide The Dell Diagnostics provides a series of menus and options from which you choose particular device groups or subtests. You can also control the sequence in which the tests are run. The diagnostic device groups or subtests also have ...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-31 For a quick check of your system, select Quickly Test All Devices . This option runs only the subtests that do not require user interaction and that do not take a long time to run. Dell recommends that you choose this option first to increase the odds of t...

3-32 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Figure 3-2. Dell Diagnostics Main Screen Do not be concerned if the Device Groups area does not list the names of all the components or devices you know are part of your computer. For example, you will not see a mouse listed, althoug...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-33 Keys Keys explains the functions of all the keystrokes that can be used in the Dell Diagnostics. Device Group Device Group describes the device group that is presently highlighted in the Device Groups list on the main menu screen. It also provides reasonin...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-1 C H A P T E R 4 Installing System Software This document explains how to install/reinstall Dell device drivers and utilities on your Dell computer running the Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition operating system or the Microsoft Windows NT operating sy...

4-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 8. Label a blank, high-density diskette as instructed, insert the diskette into the diskette drive, and then click OK . 9. Follow the prompts on your screen to complete the installation. Installing Drivers and Utilities for Windows 98...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-3 9. When prompted, be sure that the Yes, I want to restart my computer now radio button is selected, and then click Finish . The New Hardware Found window appears, the driver is installed, and the installation is completed. Installing the Video Driver T...

4-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 5. In the Run dialog box, type x :\win98\touchpad\english\setup.exe , where x is the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive letter. If you are using a Japanese-language version of Windows 98 , type x :\win98\touchpad\japanese\setup.exe , where x is ...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-5 7. At the Welcome Screen , click Next> . The internal modem files are copied to your hard-disk drive. The New Hardware Found window appears, the driver is installed, and the installation is completed. Installing the Software DVD Decoder (Optional) T...

4-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 3. When the Microsoft Windows 98 Startup Menu appears, press the down-arrow key to select 2. Start computer with CD-ROM support and press <Enter>. 4. When the A:\> prompt appears on the screen, insert the System Software CD i...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-7 6. Double-click the Windows folder, then double-click the System folder, and then right-click Paste . 7. Click Start , and then click Run . 8. Type regsvr32 popup.ocx and then press <Enter>. 9. Click OK when a window indicates the file was succes...

4-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Installing Drivers and Utilities for Windows NT This section explains how to install/reinstall device drivers and utilities on your Dell portable computer running the Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 operating system. NOTICE: You must install...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-9 Installing the Video Driver The video driver controls features such as video resolution and color palette. NOTE: If you need to use extended video modes, check the documentation that accompanied the application program to determine if the driver is pro...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-11 13. Click OK at the dialog box regarding sensitive information. 14. After the appropriate files are copied onto the hard-disk drive and the emergency repair diskette is created, remove the Emergency Repair Diskette and select Yes, I want to restart my...

4-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Installing the PC Card Configuration Utility The PC Card configuration utility allows you to view and change the properties of an installed PC Card. The Softex PC Card Controller icon appears in the Control Panel after you install th...

4-14 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 6. Left-click Copy Here . 7. Double-click the 7500help icon to access the system Help . Downloading Help From the Support Web Site To download the system Help from http://support.dell.com , perform the following steps: 1. Click Suppo...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-1 C H A P T E R 5 Getting Help This chapter describes the tools Dell provides to help you when you have a problem with your computer. It also tells you when and how to call Dell for technical or customer assistance. Technical Assistance If you need assistance with a t...

5-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Help Tools Dell provides a number of tools to assist you. These tools are described in the following subsections. NOTE: Some of the following tools are not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S. Please call you...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-3 • Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP) ftp.dell.com/ Log in as user: anonymous , and use your e-mail address as your password. • Electronic Support Service [email protected] [email protected] (for Asian/Pacific countries only) support.euro.dell.com (for Europe onl...

5-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Automated Order-Status System You can call this automated service to check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. For the teleph...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-5 2. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return. 3. Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist indicating the tests you have run and any error messages reported by the Dell Diagnostics. 4. Include any accessories that belong with ...

5-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Figure 5-1. Diagnostics Checklist Name: ______________________________________________________________Date: ______________________ Address: ________________________________________________________Phone number: _________________ Servic...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-7 Dell Contact Numbers When you need to contact Dell, use the telephone numbers and codes provided in Tables 5-1 and 5-2. Table 5-1 provides the various codes required to make long-distance and international calls. Table 5-2 provides local telephone numbers, area code...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-9 Sweden (Upplands Vasby) 009 46 8 Switzerland (Geneva) 00 41 22 Taiwan 002 886 — Thailand 001 66 — U.K. (Bracknell) 010 44 1344 U.S.A. (Austin, Texas) 011 1 Not required Table 5-1. International Dialing Codes (continued) Country (City) International Access Code Count...

5-10 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Brunei NOTE: Customers in Brunei call Malay-sia for sales, customer, and tech-nical assistance. Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 810 4966 Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) . . ...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-11 Czech Republic (Prague) Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 83 27 27 Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 83 27 11 Fax . . . . . ....

5-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Germany (Langen) Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06103 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 971-200 Technical Support Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06103 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 971-...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-13 Italy (Milan) Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57782.690 Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57782.555 Sales. . . . . . . . . ...

5-14 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Luxembourg NOTE: Customers in Luxembourg call Belgium for sales, customer, and technical assistance. Customer Technical Support (Brussels, Belgium) . . 02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 481 92 88 Home/Small Business Sales (Brussels, Bel...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-15 Netherlands (Amsterdam) Customer Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5818838 Home/Small Business Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 0800-0663 Home/Small Business SalesFax . . . ...

5-16 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Singapore (Singapore) NOTE: Customers in Singapore call Malaysia for cus-tomer assistance. Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 800 6011 051 Customer Service (Penang, Malays...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-17 Sweden (Upplands Vasby) Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 590 05 199 Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 590 05 169 Fax Technical...

5-18 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide U.S.A. (Austin, Texas) Automated Order-Status System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 1-800-433-9014 AutoTech (Automated technical support) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 1-800-247-9362 Dedicated Technic...

support.dell.com Technical Specifications A-1 A P P E N D I X A Technical Specifications The most complete specifications for your computer are available on Dell’s World Wide Web support site at http://support.dell.com . Type your service tag sequence (or, if you have one, your Express Service Code)...

support.dell.com Using the Setup Program B-1 A P P E N D I X B Using the Setup Program This appendix describes the Setup program, which you can use to configure your computer system as well as enable and disable your system’s password features. Your computer retains system configuration information ...

B-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Accessing the Setup Program NOTICE: To avoid data loss, exit any application programs before rebooting the computer to enter the Setup program. To access the Setup program, turn on the computer and press <F2> as soon as you see ...

B-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide System Devices Menu See Figure B-2 and Table B-2 for an explanation of the options and settings on the System Devices menu. Figure B-2. System Devices Menu Extended Memory Displays the total amount of memory above 1 MB. Each computer ...

support.dell.com Using the Setup Program B-7 Security Menu See Figure B-3 and Table B-3 for an explanation of the options and settings for the Security menu. Figure B-3. Security Menu Main System Devices Security Power Boot Exit System Password is Clear Set System Password [Enter] Password On Boot [...

B-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Power Menu See Figure B-4 an d Table B-4 for an explanation of the options and settings for the Power menu. NOTE: The power management settings of the Windows 98 operating system take precedence over the settings described here. For m...

support.dell.com Using the Setup Program B-11 Boot Menu See Figure B-5 and Table B-5 for an explanation of the options and settings for the Boot menu. To select the boot device, press the up- or down-arrow key; then press <F6> to move the device up the list ,or press <F5> to move the dev...

B-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Exit Menu To exit the Setup program from the Exit menu, press the up- or down-arrow key to highlight a menu option, and then press <Enter>. See Figure B-6 and Table B-6 for an explanation of the options and setting for the Exit...

support.dell.com System Messages and Beep Codes C-1 A P P E N D I X C System Messages and Beep Codes Your application programs, the operating system, and the computer itself can provide you with status and error information in the form of system messages that appear on the computer’s display or an e...

C-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Extended RAM failed at off- set: nnnn Extended memory is not configured properly or has failed at the memory address nnnn . Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”) Failing bits: nnnn Memo...

C-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide System Beep Codes When errors occur during the boot routine that cannot be reported on the integrated display or on an external monitor (if attached), the computer may emit a series of beeps that identify the problem. The beep code is...

support.dell.com Regulatory Notices D-1 A P P E N D I X D Regulatory Notices Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is any signal or emission, radiated in free space or conducted along power or signal leads, that endangers the functioning of a radio navigation or other safety service or seriously degrad...

support.dell.com Regulatory Notices D-3 Class A This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated...

D-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide The REN is used to determine the quantity of devices that may be connected to the telephone line. Excessive RENs on the telephone line may result in the devices not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most areas, the sum of al...

D-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide The following information is provided in compliance with IC regulations: Dell Computer CorporationWarranty and Repair Service CenterOne Dell WayRound Rock, TX 78682 USA 512-338-4400 CE Notice (European Union) Marking by the symbol ind...

support.dell.com Regulatory Notices D-7 EN 55022 Compliance (Czech Republic Only) VCCI Notice (Japan Only) Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) as Class B information technology equipment (ITE). However, the inclusion of certain options c...

D-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Figure D-1. VCCI Class A ITE Regulatory Mark Class B ITE This is a Class B product based on the standard of the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) for information technology equipment. If this equipment is used near a r...

support.dell.com Regulatory Notices D-9 Class A Device Please note that this device has been approved for business purposes with regard to electromagnetic interference. If you find that this device is not suitable for your use, you may exchange it for a nonbusiness device. Figure D-3. MOC Class A Re...

D-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Información para NOM (únicamente para México) La información siguiente se proporciona en el dispositivo o en los dispositivos descritos en este documento, en cumplimiento con los requisitos de la Norma Oficial Mexicana (NOM): BSMI No...

support.dell.com Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance E-1 A P P E N D I X E Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance Limited Three-Year Warranty (U.S. Only) Dell Computer Corporation (“Dell”) manufactures its hardware products from parts and components...

E-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide risk of loss or damage during shipment. Dell will ship the repaired or replacement products to you freight prepaid if you use an address in the continental U.S., where applicable. Shipments to other locations will be made freight coll...

support.dell.com Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance E-3 SOME STATES (OR JURISDICTIONS) DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE PRECEDING LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. DELL DOES NOT ACCEPT LIABILITY BEYOND THE REMEDIES SET FORTH IN THIS WA...

support.dell.com Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance E-5 General Provisions DELL MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS BEYOND THOSE STATED IN THIS WARRANTY STATEMENT. DELL DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION I...

E-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide To return products, you must call Dell Customer Service to receive a Credit Return Authorization Number. Refer to Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” or the section titled “Contacting Dell” in your system Help to find the appropriate telephone...

support.dell.com Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance E-7 Despite a system's ability to pass the YMARK2000 test, actual rollover results in specific operating environments may vary depending on other factors including, but not limited to, other hardware, operating systems, ...

support.dell.com Index 1 Index A assistance technical, 5-1telephone numbers, 5-7warranty repair or credit, 5-4 audio functions troubleshooting, 3-29 AutoTech service, 5-3 B battery, 1-1 beep codes See also error messages about, C-4 BIOS, 1-2 boot routine, 3-2 indications, 3-6 C cables troubleshootin...

xi Preface About This Guide This guide is intended for anyone who uses a Dell portable computer. It can be used by both first-time and experienced computer users who want to learn about the features of the computer. This guide also provides basic troubleshooting procedures and instructions for using...

xii Warranty and Return Policy Information Dell Computer Corporation (“Dell”) manufactures its hardware products from parts and components that are new or equivalent to new in accordance with industry-standard practices. For information about the Dell warranty and return policy, see Appendix E, “War...

xiii Typographical Conventions The following list defines (where appropriate) and illustrates typographical conventions used as visual cues for specific elements of text throughout this document: • Interface components are window titles, button and icon names, menu names and selections, and other op...

xv Contents Chapter 1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Hardware Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Front View of the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...

xvii Chapter 4 Installing System Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 Installing the Windows 98 Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 Installing Drivers and Utilities forWindows 98 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...

xviii Appendix A Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1 Appendix B Using the Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1 Accessing the Setup Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2 Main Menu. ....

xix Appendix E Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E-1 Limited Three-Year Warranty (U.S. Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1 Coverage During Year One. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....

xx Figure D-1. VCCI Class A ITE Regulatory Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-8 Figure D-2. VCCI Class B ITE Regulatory Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-8 Figure D-3. MOC Class A Regulatory Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....

support.dell.com Introduction 1-1 C H A P T E R 1 Introduction This chapter provides information about the major hardware and software features of your computer, as well as available upgrades. Hardware Features Your Dell™ Inspiron™ computer has the following hardware features: • An Intel ® microproc...

support.dell.com Introduction 1-3 • Universal Serial Bus (USB) capability, which provides a single connection point for multiple USB-compliant devices. You can also connect and disconnect USB-compliant devices while the system is running. NOTE: If you attach a USB device that was not included in you...

support.dell.com Introduction 1-5 NOTICE: Do not push objects into the air intake. Keep the opening free from dust and other foreign particles. When using the computer, do not block the air intake. NOTE: The fan spins at a very high rotational speed and makes a whirring sound. This phenomenon is nor...

support.dell.com Introduction 1-7 Software Features In addition to the operating system, the following software is included with your computer: • The Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition operating system, or the Microsoft Windows NT operating system. • A Setup program that lets you customize the oper...

1-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide • Advanced port replicator with a network interface controller (NIC) • Memory modules (32-, 64-, 128-, 192-, and 256-MB capacities) • Leather and nylon carrying cases • Microphone, external speakers, headphones • Network PC Cards To o...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-1 C H A P T E R 2 Options and Upgrades This chapter describes the installation procedures for the options and upgrades available from Dell for your computer. Using the AC Adapter Your AC adapter kit contains the AC adapter and an AC power cable (see Figure 2-1...

2-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide To connect the AC adapter (with your computer turned either on or off), perform the following steps and refer to Figure 2-1: 1. Connect the AC power cable to the AC adapter. 2. Plug the AC adapter cable into the AC adapter connector o...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-3 b. Push the latch lock to the unlocked position, and slide the latch release in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 2-2. Keep holding the latch release with one hand while pulling the device out of the media bay with the other. Figure 2-2. Removing a ...

2-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide To change a device in the MegaBay, perform the following steps: 1. Save and close any open files, and exit any open application programs. 2. Turn off the computer. 3. Remove the currently installed device from the MegaBay: a. Close th...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-5 Installing a Battery This section describes how to install the main and the optional second lithium-ion batteries that provide power to your computer when AC power is not available. NOTE: You can install a lithium-ion battery in either the MegaBay or as a se...

2-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Attaching the Composite TV-Out Adapter Cable Your computer has a TV-out S-video connector for connecting a television to the computer. To connect a television, perform the following steps: 1. Save and close any open files, exit any op...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-7 NOTE: If you are outside the U.S., you may need to change the Television Type setting in the Setup program. See Appendix B, “Using the Setup Program,” for more information. Installing an Internal Hard-Disk Drive NOTE: If you ordered a second and/or third har...

2-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide C Figure 2-6. Removing the Internal Hard-Disk Drive 4. Push the hard-disk drive forward until it stops, and then pull it up. 5. Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging to use when storing or shipping the h...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-9 Returning a Hard-Disk Drive to Dell If you need to return your hard-disk drive, you must ship it to Dell in its original foam packaging (see Figure 2-7). Otherwise, the hard-disk drive may be damaged while in transit. Figure 2-7. Repackaging the Hard-Disk Dr...

2-10 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 3. Remove any installed batteries from the MegaBay and/or media bay. For instructions, refer to “Using the MegaBay” and/or “Using the Media Bay” found earlier in this chapter. 4. Ground yourself by touching a metal input/output (I/O)...

support.dell.com Options and Upgrades 2-13 5. At the MS-DOS prompt, type x :/ , where x is the drive letter of your CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive. Drive letter D is typical for CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drives. 6. Type cd\utility and press <Enter>. 7. Type phdisk /create /file and press <Enter>. NOTE:...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-1 C H A P T E R 3 Basic Troubleshooting This chapter guides you through some initial checks and procedures that can solve basic computer problems. It also provides detailed troubleshooting information and procedures to solve more complex problems. Complete th...

3-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide If you were trying to install new hardware, double-check configuration settings and available system resources. Refer to the documentation that accompanied the hardware device for more information. Also make sure you changed the appro...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-3 • Second battery or any other optional device installed in the media bay • Cables that connect external devices through the input/output (I/O) connectors and ports on the computer. Environmental Factors A number of external factors, including temperature ex...

3-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Modem NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog line only. Using a nonanalog line, such as a digital or private branch exchange (PBX) line, will damage the modem. NOTE: If your modem can dial and connect to one Internet service provider ...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-5 Windows 98 on your computer, you should already have virus-scanning software) to check for and remove any viruses. • Clean the disc with a soft, lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol. • Clean the drive as described in the next subsection, “Cleaning Diskette...

3-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide NOTE: Before you begin any of the troubleshooting procedures, make sure the Quiet Boot option is set to Disabled in the Main menu of the Setup program. See Appendix B, “Using the Setup Program,” for information on using the Setup prog...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-7 To fix this problem, correct the appropriate options in the Setup program. See Appendix B, “Using the Setup Program,” for detailed information about the Setup program and its options. If, after checking the setup options, you have not resolved the problem, ...

3-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide read the installation instructions before running a program’s installation routine. If you are instructed to modify the start-up files, see the documentation that came with the operating system for instructions. When you run the insta...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-9 result when other programs require use of all or part of the memory already occupied by these TSR programs. Typically, the operating system’s start-up files contain commands to start TSR programs when you boot the computer. If you suspect that one of these ...

3-10 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures This section provides troubleshooting procedures for integrated components (such as the display) and for external devices that connect to the computer (such as an external monitor). Before performing any of...

3-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 15. Does the computer work properly? Yes. The problem is resolved. No. If the computer is able to boot, run the Dell Diagnostics to identify computer damage. If the computer is unable to boot, see “Troubleshooting a Power Failure” fo...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-13 Troubleshooting a Power Failure Occasionally, you may experience a power failure in all or part of the computer. A total power failure is indicated by the absence of electrical activity (such as status indicators and sounds) from the keyboard, display, har...

3-14 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 9. Reseat (remove and reinstall) any installed batteries, and check the AC adapter connection. Does the power status indicator, to the right of the display latch, light up? Yes. The problem is resolved. No. If the computer is powered...

3-16 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide No Power to a Part of the Computer If the power status indicator shows that your computer is receiving power, but the display remains blank, part of your computer is probably not receiving power. To troubleshoot this problem, make a ...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-17 5. Remove and reinsert the diskette drive (or disconnect and reconnect the drive if used externally). Reboot the computer. Does the diskette-drive access indicator light up during the boot routine? Yes. Go to step 6. No. Go to step 9. 6. Does the computer ...

3-18 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 5. Remove and reinsert the drive. Reboot the computer. Does the drive access indicator blink during the boot routine? Yes. Go to step 6. No. Go to step 10. 6. Remove the hard-disk drive and boot the computer from a bootable CD. Does ...

3-20 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 9. Call Dell for technical assistance. See Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” for instructions. Troubleshooting an External Keyboard When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional. During POST, the com...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-21 8. Turn off the computer and disconnect the external keyboard from the computer. 9. Turn on the computer. Does the computer recognize the integrated keyboard? Allow one minute for the computer to initialize its components. Then use the computer’s integrate...

3-22 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 8. Reboot the computer, and press <F2> when prompted to enter the Setup program. 9. In the Main menu of the Setup program, make sure that the value in the Extended Memory field is at least 15 MB. Yes. A memory module was loose;...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-23 6. Turn on the computer. Is the display on? Allow one minute for the computer to initialize its components. Yes. Go to step 7. No. Go to step 9. 7. Press the <Fn> down-arrow or <Fn> up-arrow key combination to adjust the brightness. Is the full...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-25 Troubleshooting the Serial and Parallel Ports This section provides a procedure for troubleshooting the computer’s serial and parallel ports and any attached peripheral devices. If a system error message indicates a port problem or if equipment connected t...

3-26 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 4. Change the necessary statements in the start-up files. If the port problem is confined to a particular application program, see the application program’s documentation for specific port configuration requirements. Is the problem r...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-27 5. Run the parallel printer’s self-test. Does the self-test complete successfully? Yes. Go to step 6. No. The printer is probably defective. If you bought the printer from Dell, call Dell for technical assistance. (See Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” for instru...

3-28 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting the Infrared Port This section provides a procedure for troubleshooting the computer’s infrared (IR) port. Make a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist found in Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” and fill it out as you perform th...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-29 2. Do the tests complete successfully? Yes. The controller is functioning properly. If the problem persists, call Dell for technical assistance. (See Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” for instructions.) No. Go to step 3. 3. Insert your diagnostics diskette into d...

3-30 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide The Dell Diagnostics provides a series of menus and options from which you choose particular device groups or subtests. You can also control the sequence in which the tests are run. The diagnostic device groups or subtests also have ...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-31 For a quick check of your system, select Quickly Test All Devices . This option runs only the subtests that do not require user interaction and that do not take a long time to run. Dell recommends that you choose this option first to increase the odds of t...

3-32 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Figure 3-2. Dell Diagnostics Main Screen Do not be concerned if the Device Groups area does not list the names of all the components or devices you know are part of your computer. For example, you will not see a mouse listed, althoug...

support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 3-33 Keys Keys explains the functions of all the keystrokes that can be used in the Dell Diagnostics. Device Group Device Group describes the device group that is presently highlighted in the Device Groups list on the main menu screen. It also provides reasonin...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-1 C H A P T E R 4 Installing System Software This document explains how to install/reinstall Dell device drivers and utilities on your Dell computer running the Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition operating system or the Microsoft Windows NT operating sy...

4-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 8. Label a blank, high-density diskette as instructed, insert the diskette into the diskette drive, and then click OK . 9. Follow the prompts on your screen to complete the installation. Installing Drivers and Utilities for Windows 98...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-3 9. When prompted, be sure that the Yes, I want to restart my computer now radio button is selected, and then click Finish . The New Hardware Found window appears, the driver is installed, and the installation is completed. Installing the Video Driver T...

4-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 5. In the Run dialog box, type x :\win98\touchpad\english\setup.exe , where x is the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive letter. If you are using a Japanese-language version of Windows 98 , type x :\win98\touchpad\japanese\setup.exe , where x is ...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-5 7. At the Welcome Screen , click Next> . The internal modem files are copied to your hard-disk drive. The New Hardware Found window appears, the driver is installed, and the installation is completed. Installing the Software DVD Decoder (Optional) T...

4-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 3. When the Microsoft Windows 98 Startup Menu appears, press the down-arrow key to select 2. Start computer with CD-ROM support and press <Enter>. 4. When the A:\> prompt appears on the screen, insert the System Software CD i...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-7 6. Double-click the Windows folder, then double-click the System folder, and then right-click Paste . 7. Click Start , and then click Run . 8. Type regsvr32 popup.ocx and then press <Enter>. 9. Click OK when a window indicates the file was succes...

4-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Installing Drivers and Utilities for Windows NT This section explains how to install/reinstall device drivers and utilities on your Dell portable computer running the Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 operating system. NOTICE: You must install...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-9 Installing the Video Driver The video driver controls features such as video resolution and color palette. NOTE: If you need to use extended video modes, check the documentation that accompanied the application program to determine if the driver is pro...

support.dell.com Installing System Software 4-11 13. Click OK at the dialog box regarding sensitive information. 14. After the appropriate files are copied onto the hard-disk drive and the emergency repair diskette is created, remove the Emergency Repair Diskette and select Yes, I want to restart my...

4-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Installing the PC Card Configuration Utility The PC Card configuration utility allows you to view and change the properties of an installed PC Card. The Softex PC Card Controller icon appears in the Control Panel after you install th...

4-14 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 6. Left-click Copy Here . 7. Double-click the 7500help icon to access the system Help . Downloading Help From the Support Web Site To download the system Help from http://support.dell.com , perform the following steps: 1. Click Suppo...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-1 C H A P T E R 5 Getting Help This chapter describes the tools Dell provides to help you when you have a problem with your computer. It also tells you when and how to call Dell for technical or customer assistance. Technical Assistance If you need assistance with a t...

5-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Help Tools Dell provides a number of tools to assist you. These tools are described in the following subsections. NOTE: Some of the following tools are not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S. Please call you...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-3 • Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP) ftp.dell.com/ Log in as user: anonymous , and use your e-mail address as your password. • Electronic Support Service [email protected] [email protected] (for Asian/Pacific countries only) support.euro.dell.com (for ...

5-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Automated Order-Status System You can call this automated service to check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. For the teleph...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-5 2. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return. 3. Include a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist indicating the tests you have run and any error messages reported by the Dell Diagnostics. 4. Include any accessories that belong with ...

5-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Figure 5-1. Diagnostics Checklist Name: ______________________________________________________________Date: ______________________ Address: ________________________________________________________Phone number: _________________ Servic...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-7 Dell Contact Numbers When you need to contact Dell, use the telephone numbers and codes provided in Tables 5-1 and 5-2. Table 5-1 provides the various codes required to make long-distance and international calls. Table 5-2 provides local telephone numbers, area code...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-9 Sweden (Upplands Vasby) 009 46 8 Switzerland (Geneva) 00 41 22 Taiwan 002 886 — Thailand 001 66 — U.K. (Bracknell) 010 44 1344 U.S.A. (Austin, Texas) 011 1 Not required Table 5-1. International Dialing Codes (continued) Country (City) International Access Code Count...

5-10 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Brunei NOTE: Customers in Brunei call Malay-sia for sales, customer, and tech-nical assistance. Customer Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 810 4966 Customer Service (Penang, Malaysia) . . ...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-11 Czech Republic (Prague) Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 83 27 27 Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 83 27 11 Fax . . . . . ....

5-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Germany (Langen) Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06103 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 971-200 Technical Support Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06103 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 971-...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-13 Italy (Milan) Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57782.690 Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57782.555 Sales. . . . . . . . . ...

5-14 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Luxembourg NOTE: Customers in Luxembourg call Belgium for sales, customer, and technical assistance. Customer Technical Support (Brussels, Belgium) . . 02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 481 92 88 Home/Small Business Sales (Brussels, Bel...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-15 Netherlands (Amsterdam) Customer Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5818838 Home/Small Business Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 0800-0663 Home/Small Business SalesFax . . . ...

5-16 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Singapore (Singapore) NOTE: Customers in Singapore call Malaysia for cus-tomer assistance. Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 800 6011 051 Customer Service (Penang, Malays...

support.dell.com Getting Help 5-17 Sweden (Upplands Vasby) Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 590 05 199 Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 590 05 169 Fax Technical...

5-18 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide U.S.A. (Austin, Texas) Automated Order-Status System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 1-800-433-9014 AutoTech (Automated technical support) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 1-800-247-9362 Dedicated Technic...

support.dell.com Technical Specifications A-1 A P P E N D I X A Technical Specifications The most complete specifications for your computer are available on Dell’s World Wide Web support site at http://support.dell.com . Type your service tag sequence (or, if you have one, your Express Service Code)...

support.dell.com Using the Setup Program B-1 A P P E N D I X B Using the Setup Program This appendix describes the Setup program, which you can use to configure your computer system as well as enable and disable your system’s password features. Your computer retains system configuration information ...

B-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Accessing the Setup Program NOTICE: To avoid data loss, exit any application programs before rebooting the computer to enter the Setup program. To access the Setup program, turn on the computer and press <F2> as soon as you see ...

B-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide System Devices Menu See Figure B-2 and Table B-2 for an explanation of the options and settings on the System Devices menu. Figure B-2. System Devices Menu Extended Memory Displays the total amount of memory above 1 MB. Each computer ...

support.dell.com Using the Setup Program B-7 Security Menu See Figure B-3 and Table B-3 for an explanation of the options and settings for the Security menu. Figure B-3. Security Menu Main System Devices Security Power Boot Exit System Password is Clear Set System Password [Enter] Password On Boot [...

B-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Power Menu See Figure B-4 an d Table B-4 for an explanation of the options and settings for the Power menu. NOTE: The power management settings of the Windows 98 operating system take precedence over the settings described here. For m...

support.dell.com Using the Setup Program B-11 Boot Menu See Figure B-5 and Table B-5 for an explanation of the options and settings for the Boot menu. To select the boot device, press the up- or down-arrow key; then press <F6> to move the device up the list ,or press <F5> to move the dev...

B-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Exit Menu To exit the Setup program from the Exit menu, press the up- or down-arrow key to highlight a menu option, and then press <Enter>. See Figure B-6 and Table B-6 for an explanation of the options and setting for the Exit...

support.dell.com System Messages and Beep Codes C-1 A P P E N D I X C System Messages and Beep Codes Your application programs, the operating system, and the computer itself can provide you with status and error information in the form of system messages that appear on the computer’s display or an e...

C-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Extended RAM failed at off- set: nnnn Extended memory is not configured properly or has failed at the memory address nnnn . Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”) Failing bits: nnnn Memo...

C-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide System Beep Codes When errors occur during the boot routine that cannot be reported on the integrated display or on an external monitor (if attached), the computer may emit a series of beeps that identify the problem. The beep code is...

support.dell.com Regulatory Notices D-1 A P P E N D I X D Regulatory Notices Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is any signal or emission, radiated in free space or conducted along power or signal leads, that endangers the functioning of a radio navigation or other safety service or seriously degrad...

support.dell.com Regulatory Notices D-3 Class A This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated...

D-4 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide The REN is used to determine the quantity of devices that may be connected to the telephone line. Excessive RENs on the telephone line may result in the devices not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most areas, the sum of al...

D-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide The following information is provided in compliance with IC regulations: Dell Computer CorporationWarranty and Repair Service CenterOne Dell WayRound Rock, TX 78682 USA 512-338-4400 CE Notice (European Union) Marking by the symbol ind...

support.dell.com Regulatory Notices D-7 EN 55022 Compliance (Czech Republic Only) VCCI Notice (Japan Only) Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) as Class B information technology equipment (ITE). However, the inclusion of certain options c...

D-8 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Figure D-1. VCCI Class A ITE Regulatory Mark Class B ITE This is a Class B product based on the standard of the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) for information technology equipment. If this equipment is used near a r...

support.dell.com Regulatory Notices D-9 Class A Device Please note that this device has been approved for business purposes with regard to electromagnetic interference. If you find that this device is not suitable for your use, you may exchange it for a nonbusiness device. Figure D-3. MOC Class A Re...

D-12 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide Información para NOM (únicamente para México) La información siguiente se proporciona en el dispositivo o en los dispositivos descritos en este documento, en cumplimiento con los requisitos de la Norma Oficial Mexicana (NOM): BSMI No...

support.dell.com Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance E-1 A P P E N D I X E Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance Limited Three-Year Warranty (U.S. Only) Dell Computer Corporation (“Dell”) manufactures its hardware products from parts and components...

E-2 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide risk of loss or damage during shipment. Dell will ship the repaired or replacement products to you freight prepaid if you use an address in the continental U.S., where applicable. Shipments to other locations will be made freight coll...

support.dell.com Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance E-3 SOME STATES (OR JURISDICTIONS) DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE PRECEDING LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. DELL DOES NOT ACCEPT LIABILITY BEYOND THE REMEDIES SET FORTH IN THIS WA...

support.dell.com Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance E-5 General Provisions DELL MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS BEYOND THOSE STATED IN THIS WARRANTY STATEMENT. DELL DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION I...

E-6 Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide To return products, you must call Dell Customer Service to receive a Credit Return Authorization Number. Refer to Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” or the section titled “Contacting Dell” in your system Help to find the appropriate telephone...

support.dell.com Warranty, Return Policy, and Year 2000 Statement of Compliance E-7 Despite a system's ability to pass the YMARK2000 test, actual rollover results in specific operating environments may vary depending on other factors including, but not limited to, other hardware, operating systems, ...

support.dell.com Index 1 Index A assistance technical, 5-1telephone numbers, 5-7warranty repair or credit, 5-4 audio functions troubleshooting, 3-29 AutoTech service, 5-3 B battery, 1-1 beep codes See also error messages about, C-4 BIOS, 1-2 boot routine, 3-2 indications, 3-6 C cables troubleshootin...