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INSPIRON ™ SETUP GUIDE Model P04E Regulatory type P04E001...
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Trademarks used in this text: Dell , the DELL logo, YOURS IS HERE, Dell On Call, and DellConnect are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel , Celeron , and Pentium are registered trademarks and Core is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S.
™ WARNING: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your Dell™ computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a closed briefcase, while it is powered on. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.
Connect the AC Adapter Connect the AC adapter to the computer and then plug it into an electrical outlet or surge protector. WARNING: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to a power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or permanent damage to your computer.
Set Up Windows Vista Your Dell computer is preconfigured with Windows Vista follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take up to 15 minutes to complete. The Windows Vista set up screens will take you through several procedures including accepting license agreements, setting preferences, and setting up an Internet connection.
Setting Up Your Inspiron™ Laptop Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional)
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To enable wireless: Ensure that your computer is turned on. Press the wireless key A confirmation of your selection appears on the screen. Wireless enabled Wireless disabled To disable wireless: Press the wireless key on the keyboard again to turn off all radios. NOTE: The wireless key allows you to quickly turn all of your wireless radios (Bluetooth and WiFi) off, such as when you are asked to disable all wireless radios on an airplane flight.
Internet service provider (ISP). If an external USB modem or WLAN adapter is not a part of your original order, you can purchase one from the Dell website at www.dell.com. Setting Up a Wired Connection •...
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Setting Up Your Internet Connection ISPs (Internet Service Providers) and ISP offerings vary by country. Contact your ISP for offerings available in your country. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the ISP might have a service outage.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop This section provides information about the features available on your Inspiron laptop. Right Side Features...
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1 ExpressCard slot – Supports 34/54 mm wide ExpressCard. The computer ships with a plastic blank installed in the slot. NOTE: Blanks protect unused slots from dust and other particles. Save the blank for use when no ExpressCard is installed in the slot; blanks from other computers may not fit your computer. 2 Optical drive –...
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1 Security cable slot – Attaches a commercially available security cable to the computer. NOTE: Before you buy a security cable, ensure that it works with the security cable slot on your computer. AC adapter connector – Connects to an AC adapter to power the computer and charge the battery.
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Front Side Features 2 3 4...
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Power/Battery indicator light – The light indicates the following states when powered using an AC adapter or a battery. Indicator light status Solid white AC Adapter Breathing white Battery Solid white Breathing white Solid amber NOTE: The battery is charging when the computer is powered using an AC adapter. 2 Analog microphone –...
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Audio out/Headphone connector – Connects one pair of headphones, or sends audio to a powered speaker or sound system. Audio in/Microphone connector – Connects to a microphone or input signal for use with audio programs. 7-in-1 Media Card Reader – Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, videos, and documents stored on the following digital memory cards: •...
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Computer Base Features...
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1 Keyboard – The media controls are located on the keyboard. These keys control media playback. For more information on keyboard, see the Dell Technology Guide on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals. 2 Touch pad buttons – Provide left- and right-click functions like those on a mouse.
Touch Pad Gestures Scroll Allows you to scroll through content. The scroll feature includes: Traditional Scroll – Allows you to scroll up and down, or right and left. To scroll up and down: Move a finger up or down in the vertical scroll zone (extreme right of the touch pad) to scroll up or down on the active window.
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Zoom Allows you to increase or decrease the magnification of the screen content. The zoom feature includes: One finger zoom – Allows you to zoom in or out. To zoom in: Move a finger up in the zoom zone (extreme left of the touch pad) to zoom in.
Media Controls The media control keys are located on the keyboard. To use the media controls, press the required key. You can use the Function Key Behavior setting in the System Setup (BIOS) Utility or the Windows Mobility Center to configure the media control keys.
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Mute the sound Decrease the volume level Increase the volume level Play the previous track or chapter Play or pause Play the next track or chapter Eject the disc from the optical drive...
Using the Optical Drive CAUTION: Do not press down on the disc tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not using the drive. CAUTION: Do not move the computer while playing the disc. This optical drive plays or records CDs and DVDs.
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Using Your Inspiron Laptop 1 disc 2 spindle 3 optical drive tray 4 eject button...
Using Your Inspiron Laptop Display Features The display panel holds an optional camera and accompanying dual digital microphones.
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4 Right digital array microphone (optional) – Combines with the left digital array microphone to provide high quality sound for video conferencing and voice recording. 5 Display – Your display can vary based on selections you made when purchasing your computer. For more information about displays, see the Dell Technology Guide.
WARNING: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. This computer should only use a battery purchased from Dell. Do not use batteries from other computers. WARNING: Before removing the battery, shut down the computer, and remove external cables (including the AC adapter).
Software Features NOTE: For more information about the features described in this section, see the Dell Technology Guide on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals. Productivity and Communication You can use your computer to create presentations, brochures, greeting cards, fliers, and spreadsheets.
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Customizing the Desktop You can customize your desktop to change the appearance, resolution, wallpaper, screensaver, and so on by accessing the Personalize appearance and sounds window. To access the Display Properties window: Right-click an open area of the desktop. Click Personalize, to open the Personalize appearance and sounds window and learn more about your customization options.
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Transferring Information to a New Computer Click → Control Panel→ System Start and Maintenance→ Welcome Center→ Transfer files and settings. If the User Account Control window appears, click Continue. Follow the instructions in the Transfer wizard. Backing Up Your Data It is recommended that you periodically back up files and folders on your computer.
If you cannot solve your problem using the following guidelines, see “Using Support Tools” on page 45 or “Contacting Dell” on page 63. WARNING: Only trained service personnel should remove the computer cover. See the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals for...
If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 63). Three beeps — Possible motherboard failure - Chipset error Contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 63). Four beeps — Memory/RAM failure • Ensure that no special memory module/...
Network Problems Wireless Connections If the wireless network connection is lost — The wireless router is offline or wireless has been disabled on the computer. • Check your wireless router to ensure it is powered on and connected to your data source (cable modem or network hub).
• If the display is not be responding, press the power button until the computer turns off and then turn it back on. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 63).
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If the display is not be responding, press the power button until the computer turns off and then turn it back on. If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 63). If the power light is solid amber and the computer is not responding —...
“Specifications” on page 66. • Run the Dell Diagnostics (see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 47). • Reseat the memory modules (see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
Lockups and Software Problems If the computer does not start up — Ensure that the AC adapter cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet. If a program stops responding — End the program: Press simultaneously. Click Applications.
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If a program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating ® ® system — Run the Program Compatibility Wizard. The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows Vista operating system environments.
Using Support Tools Dell Support Center The Dell Support Center is an easy-to-use application that provides information about your computer, personalized service and support resources. To launch the application, click the taskbar. The Dell Support Center home page displays your computer’s model number, service tag, express service code, and service contact information.
Alternatively you could see the Dell Technology Guide on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals or see “Contacting Dell” on page 63 for assistance.
Ensure that the device that you want to test displays in the System Setup utility and is active. Press during POST (Power On Self Test) to enter the System Setup (BIOS) utility. Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities disc.
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Starting Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive. NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 63). Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is known to be working properly.
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Press any key to continue. The Option window appears. If PSA is not invoked: Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive and to go to the Choose An Option window.
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Dell, technical support will ask for your Service Tag. When the tests complete, close the test screen to return to the Choose An Option window. To exit the Dell Diagnostics and to restart the computer, click Exit. Remove the Drivers and Utilities disc.
Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your operating system and preserving data files. • Dell Factory Image Restore returns your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. This procedure permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any programs installed after you received the computer.
System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them. NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell computer to the Windows Classic view. Starting System Restore Click...
NOTE: Dell Factory Image Restore may not be available in certain countries or on certain computers. Use Dell Factory Image Restore only as the last method to restore your operating system. This option restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer.
NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select Dell Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore. Click Next. The Confirm Data Deletion screen appears. NOTE: If you do not want to proceed with Factory Image Restore, click Cancel.
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NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities disc contains drivers that were installed during the assembly of the computer. Use the Dell Drivers and Utilities disc to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from which you ordered your computer, or...
See “Online Services” 37 for on page 58 for a more extensive list of Dell Support online. If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, see “Before You Call” on page 61.
DellConnect ™ DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and support associate to access your computer through a broadband connection, diagnose your problem and repair it all under your supervision. For more information, go to www.dell.com/DellConnect.
Online Services You can learn about Dell products and services on the following websites: • www.dell.com • (Asian/Pacific countries www.dell.com/ap only) • www.dell.com/jp (Japan only) • www.euro.dell.com (Europe only) • www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries) • (Canada only) www.dell.ca...
Automated Order-Status Service To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order.
Returning Items for Repair Under Warranty or for Credit NOTE: Before you return the product to Dell, make sure to back up any data on the hard drive(s) and on any other storage device in the product. Remove any and...
Remember to fill out the following Diagnostic Checklist. If possible, turn on your computer before you call Dell for assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard,...
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See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the computer’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell. • Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code: •...
Dell provides several online and telephone- based support and service options. Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues: Visit www.dell.com/contactdell.
NOTE: Drivers and documentation updates can be found on the Dell at support.dell.com/manuals. the Dell Technology Guide installed on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at ® support.dell.com/manuals the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals...
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Regulatory information, Ergonomics information, and End User License Agreement. find your Service tag/Express Service Code— You must use the service tag to identify your computer on support.dell.com or to contact technical support. find drivers and downloads. access technical support and product help.
Specifications Computer Model Inspiron 17 This section provides information that you may need when setting up, updating drivers for, and upgrading your computer. NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, click Start→ Help and Support and select the option to view information about your computer.
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4 GB, 5 GB, 6 GB, and 8 GB NOTE: For instructions on upgrading memory, see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals. NOTE: To take advantage of the dual channel bandwidth capability, you must populate both memory slots with cards of...
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Computer Information System chipset Mobile Intel Express Cantiga GM45 (UMA), GM45/PM45 (Discrete) Data bus width 64 bits DRAM bus width dual channel (2) 64-bit buses Processor 36 bits address bus width Flash EPROM 2 MB Communications Network adapter 10/100 Ethernet LAN on system board Wireless internal WLAN Mini-Card...
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Camera (Optional) Pixel 1.3 megapixel Video resolution 640 x 480 at 30 fps (maximum) Diagonal viewing 66° angle Audio Audio type 2 channel High Definition Audio Audio controller IDT 92HD71 Internal interface Intel High Definition Audio External interface microphone-in connector, stereo headphones/speakers connector Audio...
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Media Drive CD/DVD Writer (Dual Layer DVD+/-RW Drive) Blu-ray Disc ™ Interface Roxio Creator DE or Roxio Creator Premier Blu-ray (for Blu-ray Disc) PowerDVD Display Type (active- 17.3-inch HD+ WLED with matrix TFT) TrueLife 17.3-inch FHD WLED with TrueLife Dimensions: Height 214.81 mm (8.46 inches) Width...
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Controls brightness can be controlled through keyboard shortcuts (for more information, see the Dell Technology Guide on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals) Keyboard Number of keys 87 (U.S. and Canada); 88 (Europe); 91 (Japan)
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For more information, see the Dell Technology Guide on your hard drive or on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals. Life span 300 discharge/charge (approximate) cycles...
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Battery Temperature range: Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage –40° to 65°C (–40° to 149°F) Coin-cell CR-2032 battery AC Adapter Types 65 W, 90 W Input voltage 100–240 VAC Input current (maximum): 65 W 1.6 A 90 W 1.5 A Input 50–60 Hz...
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AC Adapter Width 70 mm (2.8 inches) Length 147 mm (5.8 inches) Weight (with 0.345 kg (0.76 lbs) cables) Temperature range Operating 0° to 35°C (32° to 95°F) Storage –30° to 65°C (–22° to 149°F) Physical Height 29.8 mm to 39.5 mm (1.17 inches to 1.55 inches) Width 416 mm (16.38 inches)
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Computer Environment Maximum shock (for operating: measured with Dell Diagnostics running on the hard drive and a 2-ms half-sine pulse; for non-operating: measured with hard drive in head-parked position and a 2-ms half-sine pulse): Operating 110 GRMS Non-Operating 160 GRMS...
Appendix Macrovision Product Notice This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by...
34 your energy settings 35 damage, avoiding 5 data, backing up 36 DellConnect 57 Dell Diagnostics 47 Dell Factory Image Restore 53 Dell Support Center 45 Dell Support website 65 Dell Technology Guide for further information 64...
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Diagnostic Checklist 62 drivers and downloads 65 DVDs, playing and creating 34 email addresses for technical support 58 energy conserving 35 expansion bus 68 finding more information 64 FTP login, anonymous 58 hardware problems diagnosing 47 Hardware Troubleshooter 47 help getting assistance and support 56 Internet connection 12 Internet Service Provider 12...
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processor 66 products information and purchasing 59 reinstalling Windows 54 resources, finding more 64 restoring factory image 53 setup, before you begin 5 shipping products for return or repair 60 software features 34 software problems 43 specifications 66 support email addresses 58 support sites worldwide 58 System Messages 46...
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Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.com 0J5MFNA01...