Dell Dimension C521 Owner'S Manual Download

Page: 71 / 140

Removing and Installing Parts

Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:

•

The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.

•

The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.

bracket within slot

bracket caught outside of slot

alignment bar

alignment guide

fully seated card

not fully seated card

Summary of Contents for Dimension C521

Page 1: ...tivity light power button microphone connector CD or DVD activity light CD or DVD eject button diagnostic lights USB 2 0 connectors 2 Service Tag headphone connector power connector USB 2 0 connectors 4 VGA video connector integrated network adapter audio connectors card slots for PCI 1 PCI Express x1 1 PCI Express x16 1 cover release latch Model DCNE ...

Page 2: ... 2006 Dell Inc All rights reserved Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc is strictly forbidden Trademarks used in this text Dell the DELL logo Inspiron Dell Precision Dimension OptiPlex Latitude PowerEdge PowerConnect PowerVault PowerApp XPS Dell TravelLite and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of M...

Page 3: ...ng Up Your Internet Connection 19 Playing CDs and DVDs 20 Adjusting the Volume 21 Adjusting the Picture 22 Copying CDs and DVDs 22 How to Copy a CD or DVD 22 Using Blank CDs and DVDs 23 Helpful Tips 23 Using a Media Card Reader Optional 24 Setting Up a Home and Office Network 26 Network Setup Wizard 27 Power Management 27 Standby Mode 27 Hibernate Mode 28 Power Options Properties 28 Power Schemes ...

Page 4: ...sponding 36 A program stops responding 36 A program crashes repeatedly 36 A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system 37 A solid blue screen appears 37 Other software problems 37 Media Card Reader Problems 38 Memory Problems 38 Mouse Problems 39 Network Problems 40 Power Problems 40 Printer Problems 41 Scanner Problems 42 Sound and Speaker Problems 43 No sound from speakers 43 No...

Page 5: ...ting System 54 Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore 54 Using Dell PC Restore by Symantec 56 Removing Dell PC Restore 57 4 Removing and Installing Parts 59 Before You Begin 59 Recommended Tools 59 Turning Off Your Computer 59 Before Working Inside Your Computer 60 Removing the Computer Cover 60 Inside View of Your Computer 62 System Board Components 63 Memory 64 DDR2 Memory Overview 64 Install...

Page 6: ...r 85 CD DVD Drive 86 Removing a CD DVD Drive 87 Installing a CD DVD Drive 87 Battery 89 Replacing the Battery 89 Replacing the Computer Cover 90 5 Appendix 93 Specifications 93 System Setup 97 Overview 97 Entering System Setup 97 System Setup Options 98 Boot Menu 102 Clearing Forgotten Passwords and CMOS Settings 104 Jumper Locations 104 Clearing Password Settings 104 Clearing CMOS Settings 105 Cl...

Page 7: ...ranty Support Policy U S Only 107 Definition of Dell Installed Software and Peripherals 107 Definition of Third Party Software and Peripherals 107 FCC Notice U S Only 107 FCC Class B 107 Contacting Dell 108 Glossary 127 Index 137 ...

Page 8: ...8 Contents ...

Page 9: ...ay not ship with your computer Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer You can use the CD to reinstall drivers see Reinstalling Drivers on page 53 to run the Dell Diagnostics see Dell Diagnostics on page 50 or to access your documentation Readme files may be included on your CD to provide last minute updates about technical changes to your computer or advanced technical re...

Page 10: ...Service Tag and Microsoft Windows License These labels are located on your computer see Front View of the Computer on page 13 Use the Service Tag to identify your computer when you use support dell com or contact support Enter the Express Service Code to direct your call when contacting support What Are You Looking For Find It Here ...

Page 11: ... Dell 3 5 inch USB floppy drives AMD processors optical drives and USB devices DSS is necessary for correct operation of your Dell computer The software automatically detects your computer and operating system and installs the updates appropriate for your configuration Dell Support Website support dell com NOTE Select your region or business segment to view the appropriate support site To download...

Page 12: ...g Your Operating System on page 54 NOTE If you reinstall the operating system for your computer you should reinstall the DSS utility prior to installing any drivers After you reinstall your operating system use the Drivers and Utilities CD ResourceCD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer Your operating system product key label is located on your computer NOTE The color ...

Page 13: ...r Computer Front View of the Computer 1 cover release latch Use this latch to remove the cover see Front View of the Computer on page 13 2 Service Tag Use to identify your computer when you access the Dell Support website or call support 6 8 9 10 5 4 2 1 12 7 3 11 ...

Page 14: ...t USB connectors for devices that you connect occasionally such as joysticks or cameras or for bootable USB devices see System Setup Options on page 98 for more information on booting to a USB device It is recommended that you use the back USB connectors for devices that typically remain connected such as printers and keyboards 10 power button Press to turn on the computer NOTICE To avoid losing d...

Page 15: ... Product Information Guide for more information 2 power connector Insert the power cable 3 back panel I O connectors Plug serial USB and other devices into the appropriate connectors see Back Panel I O Connectors on page 16 4 card slots 3 Access connector slots for expansion cards SLOT1 PCI Express x16 SLOT2 PCI Express x1 SLOT3 PCI ...

Page 16: ...n computers with an additional network connector card use the connectors on the card and on the back of the computer when setting up multiple network connections such as a separate intra and extranet NOTE It is recommended that you use Category 5 wiring and connectors for your network If you must use Category 3 wiring force the network speed to 10 Mbps to ensure reliable operation 3 network activi...

Page 17: ...t into a sound or telephony program On computers with a sound card use the connector on the card 8 center subwoofer LFE connector Use the orange center subwoofer connector to attach a center speaker or a single subwoofer On computers with a sound card use the connector on the card NOTE The LFE Low Frequency Effects Audio channel found in digital surround sound audio schemes carries only low freque...

Page 18: ...zard window appears click Cancel 4 Install the printer driver if necessary See the documentation that came with your printer Connecting to the Internet NOTE ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country To connect to the Internet you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider ISP such as AOL or MSN Your ISP will offer one or more of the following Internet connection options Dial ...

Page 19: ...ve and close any open files and exit any open programs 2 Click the Start button then click Internet Explorer The New Connection Wizard appears 3 Click Connect to the Internet 4 In the next window click the appropriate option If you do not have an ISP and want to select one click Choose from a list of Internet service providers ISPs If you have already obtained setup information from your ISP but y...

Page 20: ...2 Place the disc label side up in the center of the tray 3 Press the disc into the center of the tray until it clicks into place 4 Press the eject button or gently push in the tray To format CDs for storing data to create music CDs or to copy CDs see the CD software that came with your computer NOTE Ensure that you follow all copyright laws when you create CDs A CD player includes the following ba...

Page 21: ...ainment and then click Volume Control 2 In the Volume Control window click and drag the bar in the Volume Control column up or down to increase or decrease the volume For more information on volume control options click Help in the Volume Control window Go to the previous track Eject Go to the next track Stop Restart the current chapter Play Fast forward Pause Fast reverse Advance a single frame w...

Page 22: ...io Creator Plus for other purposes such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data For help open Roxio Creator Plus and then click the question mark icon in the upper right corner of the window How to Copy a CD or DVD NOTE CD RW DVD combo drives cannot write to DVD media If you have a CD RW DVD combo drive and you experience recording problems check...

Page 23: ... again see the Sonic documentation for more information Use blank CD RWs if you plan to erase rewrite or update information on the CD later Blank DVD Rs can be used to permanently store large amounts of data After you create a DVD R disc you may not be able to write to that disc again if the disc is finalized or closed during the final stage of the disc creation process Use blank DVD RWs if you pl...

Page 24: ... a blank 650 MB CD The CD RW drive needs 1 2 MB of blank space to finalize the recording Use a blank CD RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques If you make a mistake you can erase the data on the CD RW and try again You can also use blank CD RWs to test music file projects before you record the project permanently to a blank CD R See the Sonic website at www...

Page 25: ...media or card into the appropriate slot until it is completely seated in the connector If you encounter resistance do not force the media or card Check the card orientation and try again 1 xD Picture Card and SmartMedia SMC 3 Memory Stick MS MS Pro 2 CompactFlash Type I and II CF I II and MicroDrive Card 4 SecureDigital Card SD MultiMediaCard MMC 1 2 3 4 ...

Page 26: ...on the computer NOTICE Do not plug a network cable into a telephone wall jack 1 Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer Insert the cable until it clicks into place and then gently pull it to ensure that it is secure 2 Connect the other end of the network cable to a network device 1 Network device 3 network adapter connector 2 network cable 4 network ...

Page 27: ...andby mode or hibernate mode to reduce power to the entire computer When the computer exits from a power conservation mode the Windows desktop is restored to the state it was in before it entered the mode NOTE Windows XP Professional includes security and networking features not available in Windows XP Home Edition When a Windows XP Professional computer is connected to a network different options...

Page 28: ... bring the computer out of hibernation because the keyboard and the mouse do not function when the computer is in hibernate mode Because hibernate mode requires a special file on your hard drive with enough disk space to store the contents of the computer memory Dell creates an appropriately sized hibernate mode file before shipping the computer to you If the computer s hard drive becomes corrupte...

Page 29: ...click Save As and enter a new name for the changed scheme NOTICE If you set the hard drive hard disk to time out before the monitor does your computer may appear to be locked up To recover press any key on the keyboard or click the mouse To avoid this problem always set the monitor to time out before the hard drive Advanced Tab The Advanced tab allows you to Place the power options icon in the Win...

Page 30: ...mance is designed to still be responsive with maximum processor performance being delivered when required and automatic power savings when possible 1 Enter system setup select Cool and Quiet from the Power Management group and change the setting to On see System Setup Options on page 98 2 Click on the Start Settings Control Panel Power Options to access the Power Options Properties window 3 From t...

Page 31: ...r Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer s instructions CAUTION Before you begin any of the procedures in this section follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide Drive Problems CAUTION Before you begin any of the procedures in this section follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide REPLACE THE BATTERY If you have to repeatedly...

Page 32: ...aning Your Computer on page 105 CHECK THE CABLE CONNECTIONS RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER See Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities on page 54 RUN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS See Dell Diagnostics on page 50 ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL Click the speaker icon in the lower right corner of your screen Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up Ensure t...

Page 33: ... click Control Panel 2 Under Pick a Category click Performance and Maintenance 3 Under or pick a Control Panel icon click Power Options 4 From the Power Schemes tab select Always On RUN CHECK DISK 1 Click the Start button then click My Computer 2 Right click Local Disk C 3 Click Properties 4 Click the Tools tab 5 Under Error checking click Check Now 6 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sec...

Page 34: ... ft or more in length try a shorter one RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS Click the Start button point to All Programs and then click Modem Helper Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems Modem Helper is not available on all computers VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS 1 Click the Start button then click Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other H...

Page 35: ...ove the floppy disk from the drive and restart your computer NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES CLOSE SOME PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN Close all windows and open the program that you want to use In some cases you might have to restart your computer to restore computer resources If so run the program that you want to use first OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND Contact Dell see Contacting Dell on page 108 CHECK THE...

Page 36: ... TROUBLESHOOTER See Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities on page 54 CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS See Power Light and Diagnostic Lights on page 47 ENSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET TURN THE COMPUTER OFF If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse press and hold the power button for...

Page 37: ...old the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off then restart your computer CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION OR CONTACT THE SOFTWARE MANUFACTURER FOR TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software See the ...

Page 38: ... letter assignment for the Media Card Reader 6 Click OK to confirm your selection NOTE Each slot in the Media Card Reader is mapped to a drive letter A Media Card Reader slot only appears as a mapped drive when a media card is installed in it If you attempt to access a drive that is mapped to an empty Media Card Reader slot you are prompted to insert media FLEXBAY DEVICE IS DISABLED There is a Fle...

Page 39: ... THE MOUSE CABLE 1 Remove mouse extension cables if used and connect the mouse directly to the computer 2 Reconnect the mouse cable as shown in the setup diagram for your computer RESTART THE COMPUTER 1 Simultaneously press Ctrl Esc to display the Start menu 2 Type u press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn Off and then press Enter 3 After the computer turns off reconnect the m...

Page 40: ...ight is off that indicates no network communication exists Replace the network cable For a description of network lights see Back Panel I O Connectors on page 16 RESTART THE COMPUTER AND LOG ON TO THE NETWORK AGAIN CHECK YOUR NETWORK SETTINGS Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning...

Page 41: ...hat the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board see System Board Components on page 63 IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER A device might be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed Remove and then reinstall the memory modules see Memory on page 64 Remove and then reinstall any cards see Cards on page 68 IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER The computer is r...

Page 42: ...S RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS 1 Click the Start button click Control Panel and then click Printers and Other Hardware 2 Click View installed printers or fax printers If the printer is listed right click the printer icon 3 Click Properties then click the Ports tab For a USB printer ensure that the Print to the following port s setting is USB REINSTALL THE PRINTER DRIVER See the printer documentation for ...

Page 43: ...peakers are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers If you purchased a sound card ensure that the speakers are connected to the card ENSURE THAT THE CORRECT AUDIO SOLUTION IS ENABLED IN THE BIOS SETUP PROGRAM See System Setup on page 97 ENSURE THAT THE SUBWOOFER AND THE SPEAKERS ARE TURNED ON See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers If your speakers have volume c...

Page 44: ...nt View of the Computer on page 13 ADJUST THE WINDOWS VOLUME CONTROL Click or double click the speaker icon in the lower right corner of your screen Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted ENSURE THAT THE CORRECT AUDIO SOLUTION IS ENABLED IN THE BIOS SETUP PROGRAM See System Setup on page 97 CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION Ensure that the graphics cable is connected ...

Page 45: ...uctions on adjusting the contrast and brightness demagnetizing degaussing the monitor and running the monitor self test MOVE THE SUBWOOFER AWAY FROM THE MONITOR If your speaker system includes a subwoofer ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm 2 ft away from the monitor MOVE THE MONITOR AWAY FROM EXTERNAL POWER SOURCES Fans fluorescent lights halogen lamps and other electrical devices can cau...

Page 46: ...46 Solving Problems ...

Page 47: ...n a power conserving mode None Press the power button to wake the computer or to turn the computer on Solid green The computer has successfully booted and is operating normally None Blinking green The computer is in a Windows standby power saving state S1 or S3 None Move the mouse press the spacebar or use another device that has been configured as a wake up device to wake the computer Solid Amber...

Page 48: ...e 64 and then restart the computer If the computer starts normally reinstall an additional module Continue until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error If available install properly working memory of the same type into your computer see Memory on page 64 If the problem persists contact Dell see Contacting Dell on page 108 A possible graphics failure has occurr...

Page 49: ...emory on page 64 Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your computer see Memory on page 64 If the problem persists contact Dell see Contacting Dell on page 108 A possible expansion card failure has occurred 1 Determine whether a conflict exists by removing a card and restarting the computer see Cards on page 68 2 If the problem persists reinstall the card that ...

Page 50: ...n page 59 and try again 3 When the boot device list appears highlight Boot to Utility Partition then press Enter 4 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears select the test you want to run see Dell Diagnostics Main Menu on page 51 System resource configuration in progress None System board failure has occurred Contact Dell see Contacting Dell on page 108 During normal operation all of the diagno...

Page 51: ... described in the following table for more information Option Function Express Test Performs a quick test of devices This test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly Extended Test Performs a thorough check of devices This test typically takes an hour or more and requires you to answ...

Page 52: ...river come with your Microsoft Windows operating system You may need to install drivers if you Upgrade your operating system Reinstall your operating system Connect or install a new device Identifying Drivers If you experience a problem with any device identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and if necessary update the driver Windows XP 1 Click the Start button then click Control...

Page 53: ...y click Performance and Maintenance 3 Click System 4 In the System Properties window click the Hardware tab 5 Click Device Manager 6 Right click the device for which the new driver was installed then click Properties 7 Click the Drivers tab 8 Click Roll Back Driver If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem then use System Restore to return your computer to the operating state that exi...

Page 54: ...r operating state without affecting data files Dell PC Restore by Symantec restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer Dell PC Restore permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any applications installed after you received the computer Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System R...

Page 55: ...t then click Next If a calendar date has only one restore point then that restore point is automatically selected If two or more restore points are available click the restore point that you prefer 5 Click Next The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting data and then the computer restarts 6 After the computer restarts click OK To change the restore point you c...

Page 56: ...back up the data before using PC Restore To use PC Restore 1 Turn on the computer and watch the keyboard status lights 2 Immediately upon seeing the lights flash press Ctrl F11 If you do not press Ctrl F11 in time let the computer finish restarting and then restart the computer again NOTICE If you do not want to proceed with PC Restore click Reboot in the following step 3 On the next screen that a...

Page 57: ...al administrator 2 In Windows Explorer go to c dell utilities DSR 3 Double click the filename DSRIRRemv2 exe NOTE If you do not log on as a local administrator a message appears stating that you must log on as administrator Click Quit and then log on as a local administrator NOTE If the partition for PC Restore does not exist on your computer s hard drive a message appears stating that the partiti...

Page 58: ...58 Advanced Troubleshooting ...

Page 59: ...he procedures in this document may require the following tools Small flat blade screwdriver Phillips screwdriver Flash BIOS executable update program on support dell com Turning Off Your Computer NOTICE To avoid losing data save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off your computer 1 Shut down the operating system a Save and close any open files exit any open progra...

Page 60: ...erform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer 1 Turn off your computer see Turning Off Your Computer on page 59 NOTICE To disconnect a network cable first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network port or device 2 Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer 3 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from the...

Page 61: ...e back panel remove the padlock 3 Lay your computer on its side with the computer cover facing up NOTICE Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not accidentally disconnect cables from the system board 4 Slide the cover release latch back and lift the cover 5 Remove the cover and set it aside on a soft nonabrasive surface 1 security cable slot 2 cover release latch 3 padlo...

Page 62: ...uide CAUTION To avoid electrical shock always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the computer cover NOTICE Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not accidentally disconnect cables from the system board 1 drives bay CD DVD floppy and hard drive 2 power supply 3 system board 4 card slots 5 heat sink assembly 6 front I O panel 1 2 3 4 5 6 ...

Page 63: ...Removing and Installing Parts 63 System Board Components 1 2 6 5 13 4 7 15 14 12 11 10 3 9 8 ...

Page 64: ...to operate but with a slight reduction in performance See the label on the module to determine the module s capacity NOTE Always install DDR2 memory modules in the order indicated on the system board NOTICE Do not install ECC or buffered memory modules Only unbuffered non ECC memory is supported The recommended memory configurations are A memory module installed in connector DIMM1 A pair of matche...

Page 65: ...ll is covered under your computer warranty NOTICE If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade keep them separate from any new modules that you may have even if you purchased the new modules from Dell If possible do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module Otherwise your computer may not start properly Installing Memory CAUTION Before you ...

Page 66: ...before you touch any of your computer s electronic components You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis 1 Follow the procedures in Before You Begin on page 59 2 Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector 1 memory connector closer to edge of board 2 securing clips 2 3 connector 1 2 3 ...

Page 67: ...d of the module 5 Replace the computer cover see Replacing the Computer Cover on page 90 NOTICE To connect a network cable first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer 6 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and then turn them on 7 When a message appears stating that memory size has changed press F1 to continue 8 Log on to your computer ...

Page 68: ...d forth to remove it from the connector 4 Replace the computer cover see Replacing the Computer Cover on page 90 NOTICE To connect a network cable first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer 5 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and then turn them on Cards CAUTION Before you begin any of the procedures in this section follow the safet...

Page 69: ...rd from the operating system Installing an Expansion Card 1 Follow the procedures in Before You Begin on page 59 2 Gently push the release tab on the inside of the card retention door to pivot the door open Because the door is captive it will remain in the open position 3 If you are installing a new card remove the filler bracket to create a card slot opening then continue with step 5 1 PCI Expres...

Page 70: ... that came with the card for information on configuring the card making internal connections or otherwise customizing it for your computer CAUTION Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a network To guard against electrical shock be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards 6 Place the card in the connector and pr...

Page 71: ...ps of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide 1 bracket within slot 2 bracket caught outside of slot 3 alignment bar 4 alignment guide 5 fully seated card 6 not fully seated card 5 6 2 1 4 3 ...

Page 72: ...e into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer 10 Replace the computer cover reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets and then turn them on 11 If you installed a sound card a Enter system setup select Integrated Audio from the Onboard Devices group and change the setting to Off see System Setup Options on page 98 b Connect external audio devices to the sound c...

Page 73: ... card documentation Removing an Expansion Card 1 Follow the procedures in Before You Begin on page 59 2 Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open Because the door is captive it will remain in the open position 3 If necessary disconnect any cables connected to the card 4 Remove the card If you are removing a PCI or PCI Express x1 card grasp the ca...

Page 74: ...e first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer 9 Replace the computer cover reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets and then turn them on 10 Remove the card s driver from the operating system 11 If you removed a sound card a Enter system setup select Integrated Audio from the Onboard Devices group and change the setting to On see System S...

Page 75: ...rd drive to the connector labeled SATA0 Connect the SATA CD or DVD drives to the connector labeled SATA1 on the system board See System Board Components on page 63 for information about system board connectors Connecting Drive Cables When you install a drive you connect two cables a DC power cable and a data cable to the back of the drive and to the system board 1 DVD drive 2 optional floppy drive...

Page 76: ...Drive Cables When removing a serial ATA data cable grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector detaches When connecting a serial ATA data cable hold the cable by the black connector at each end 1 interface cable 2 interface connector 1 power cable 2 power input connector Serial ATA Connector 1 2 1 2 ...

Page 77: ...w the procedures in Before You Begin on page 59 NOTE In the following steps it is not necessary to disconnect the cables connecting the CD DVD or floppy drive or the Media Card Reader as long as it does not obstruct your working area once it is set aside 2 Remove the CD DVD drive if installed from the bay and carefully set it aside see Removing a CD DVD Drive on page 87 3 Remove the floppy drive o...

Page 78: ...rify that it is configured for your computer NOTICE To avoid damage to the drive do not set it on a hard surface Instead set the drive on a surface such as a foam pad that will sufficiently cushion it 2 Unpack the replacement hard drive and prepare it for installation 1 securing clips 2 2 hard drive 1 2 ...

Page 79: ...ive by unsnapping it from the drive 4 Attach the bracket to the new drive by aligning the two securing tabs with the mounting holes in the hard drive and then rotating the drive down snapping it onto the bracket 1 hard drive 2 release tabs 2 3 plastic hard drive bracket 1 securing tabs 2 2 hard drive 3 release tabs 2 4 plastic hard drive bracket 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 ...

Page 80: ...ICE To connect a network cable first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer 11 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and then turn them on 12 If the drive that you installed is the primary drive insert bootable media into your boot drive 13 Enter system setup see Entering System Setup on page 97 and update the appropriate Primary Drive o...

Page 81: ...re removing the cover Removing a Floppy Drive 1 Follow the procedures in Before You Begin on page 59 NOTE It is not necessary to disconnect the cables connected to the CD DVD drive in the following step as long as the cables do not obstruct your working area once the drive is set aside 2 Remove the CD DVD drive see Removing a CD DVD Drive on page 87 and carefully set it aside NOTICE Do not pull th...

Page 82: ...rge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer s electronic components You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis 1 Follow the procedures in Before You Begin on page 59 2 Remove the floppy drive and bracket from its packaging 3 If you are installing a new drive a Remove the drive panel insert that blocks the FlexBay gently slide a smal...

Page 83: ...eplace the CD DVD drive 11 Check all cable connections and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents 12 Replace the computer cover see Replacing the Computer Cover on page 90 NOTICE To connect a network cable first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer 13 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and then t...

Page 84: ... in the following step as long as the cables do not obstruct your working area once the drive is set aside 2 Remove the CD DVD drive see Removing a CD DVD Drive on page 87 and carefully set it aside NOTICE Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables Doing so may cause damage to the cables and the cable connectors 3 Disconnect the Media Card Reader USB cable from the USB connector...

Page 85: ...onents You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis 1 Follow the procedures in Before You Begin on page 59 2 Remove the Media Card Reader and bracket from its packaging 3 If you are installing a new Media Card Reader a Remove the drive panel insert that blocks the FlexBay gently slide a small flat edge screwdriver between the drive panel insert and the rear of the d...

Page 86: ...3 10 Replace the computer cover see Replacing the Computer Cover on page 90 NOTICE To connect a network cable first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer 11 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and then turn them on CD DVD Drive CAUTION Before you begin any of the procedures in this section follow the safety instructions located in the...

Page 87: ...to remove the drive from the computer 3 Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the drive 4 Replace the computer cover see Replacing the Computer Cover on page 90 NOTICE To connect a network cable first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer 5 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and then turn them on Installing a CD DVD D...

Page 88: ... are replacing an existing drive a Remove the existing drive b Remove the three shoulder screws from the existing drive 5 Insert the three shoulder screws into the sides of the new drive and tighten them 6 Connect the power and data cables to the drive 7 Align the shoulder screws with the screw guides and slide the drive into the bay until it clicks into place 8 Check all cable connections and fol...

Page 89: ... and date information after turning on the computer replace the battery CAUTION A new battery can explode if it is incorrectly installed Replace the battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer s instructions To replace the battery 1 Record all of the settings in system setup see System Setup Options on page 98 s...

Page 90: ...r system setup see System Setup on page 97 and restore the settings you recorded in step 1 9 Properly dispose of the old battery See the Product Information Guide for battery disposal information Replacing the Computer Cover CAUTION Before you begin any of the procedures in this section follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide 1 Ensure that all cables are connected a...

Page 91: ...abs as leverage rotate the cover downward to close it c Press the cover down until it snaps into place d Ensure that the cover is seated correctly before moving the computer NOTICE To connect a network cable first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer 4 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and then turn them on ...

Page 92: ...92 Removing and Installing Parts ...

Page 93: ...en available DDR2 SDRAM Memory connectors 4 Memory modules supported 256 MB 512 MB or 1 GB non ECC Minimum memory 256 MB Maximum memory 4 GB Computer Information Chipset nVidia GeForce 6150LE DMA channels eight Interrupt levels 24 BIOS chip NVRAM 4 Mb NIC integrated network interface Capable of 10 100 communication Video Type nVidia integrated video DirectX 9 0c Shader Model 3 0 Graphics Processin...

Page 94: ...eed 1 2 Mbps low speed Cards PCI connectors one card size low profile connector size 124 pins connector data width maximum 32 bits PCI Express connectors one x1 and one x16 power 10 W x1 and 25 W x16 maximum connector size 36 pins x1 and 164 pins x16 connector data width maximum one PCI Express lane x1 and 16 PCI Express lanes x16 Drives Externally accessible one 3 5 inch drive one 5 25 inch drive...

Page 95: ...0 pin connector supports two USB ports Speaker 5 pin connector Memory modules four 240 pin connector Power 12V 4 pin connector Power 24 pin connector Battery 2 pin socket Controls and Lights Power control push button Power light green light Blinking green indicates a sleep mode solid green indicates a power on state amber light Blinking amber indicates a problem with an installed device solid ambe...

Page 96: ...0 to 265 V at 50 60 Hz Backup battery 3 V CR2032 lithium coin cell Physical Height 11 4 cm 4 5 inches Width 39 9 cm 15 7 inches Depth 35 3 cm 13 9 inches Weight 10 4 kg 23 lb Environmental Temperature Operating 10 to 35 C 50 to 95 F Storage 40 to 65 C 40 to 149 F Relative humidity 20 to 80 noncondensing Maximum vibration Operating 0 25 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 0 5 octave min Storage 0 5 G at 3 to 200 H...

Page 97: ...r the F2 prompt to appear 3 Once this F2 prompt appears press F2 immediately NOTE The F2 prompt indicates that the keyboard has initialized This prompt can appear very quickly so you must watch for it to display and then press F2 If you press F2 before you are prompted this keystroke will be lost 4 If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears continue to wait until you see the Micros...

Page 98: ...our settings Use the right and left arrow keys to highlight an option Press Enter to make that selection active Key Functions This field appears below the Option Field and lists keys and their functions within the active system setup field System System Info Lists the computer name BIOS Version Service Tag Express Service Code if applicable and the Asset Tag None of these fields can be modified Pr...

Page 99: ...n default Enables or disables the integrated NIC controller Settings are Off On On w PXE or On w RPL When the On w PXE or the On w RPL setting is active if a boot routine is not available from the network server the computer attempts to boot from the next device in the boot sequence list Integrated Audio On default Enables or disables the onboard audio controller USB Controller On default Enables ...

Page 100: ...se the drive to be noisier but its performance is not affected Changing the acoustics setting does not alter your hard drive image Security Unlock Setup When an administrator password is being used allows the user access to modify system setup settings Enter the administrator password at the prompt to unlock system setup If the correct password is not entered here the user can view but not modify ...

Page 101: ...puter Time is kept in the standard 12 hour format hours minutes Change the startup time by pressing the right or left arrow key to increase or decrease the numbers or type numbers in both the date and time fields Low Power Mode On default When Low Power Mode is selected remote wakeup events will no longer power up the computer from Hibernate or Off via the onboard network controller Cool and Quiet...

Page 102: ...erate an error message NOTE To boot to a USB device the device must be bootable To ensure that a device is bootable check the device documentation POST Behavior Fastboot On default When enabled this feature reduces computer startup time by bypassing some compatibility steps Off does not skip any steps during computer startup On starts the system more quickly Numlock Key On default Determines the f...

Page 103: ...e the Microsoft Windows desktop then shut down your computer see Turning Off Your Computer on page 59 and try again 4 Press F1 to continue The Boot Menu appears listing all available boot devices 5 Use the arrow keys to select the appropriate device for the current boot only NOTE To boot to a USB device the device must be bootable To ensure that a device is bootable check the device documentation ...

Page 104: ...lace the computer cover see Replacing the Computer Cover on page 90 4 Connect your computer and monitor to electrical outlets and then turn them on 5 After the Microsoft Windows desktop appears on your computer shut down the computer see Turning Off Your Computer on page 59 6 Turn off the monitor and disconnect it from the electrical outlet 7 Disconnect the computer power cable from the electrical...

Page 105: ...the computer 4 Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets and then turn them on Cleaning Your Computer CAUTION Before you begin any of the procedures in this section follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide Computer Keyboard and Monitor CAUTION Before you clean your computer disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet Clean your computer with a soft cloth...

Page 106: ...ve NOTICE Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab You might accidentally misalign the heads which prevents the drive from operating Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit These kits contain pretreated floppy disks to remove contaminants that accumulate during normal operation CDs and DVDs NOTICE Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD DVD drive an...

Page 107: ...xtends a parts replacement program to cover all nonstandard third party hardware components integrated through CFI for the duration of the computer s service contract Definition of Dell Installed Software and Peripherals Dell installed software includes the operating system and some of the software programs that are installed on the computer during the manufacturing process Microsoft Office Norton...

Page 108: ...uipment off and on you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures Reorient the receiving antenna Relocate the system with respect to the receiver Move the system away from the receiver Plug the system into a different outlet so that the system and the receiver are on different branch circuits If necessary consult a representative of Dell Inc or an ex...

Page 109: ...international operator Country City International Access Code Country Code City Code Department Name or Service Area Website and E Mail Address Area Codes Local Numbers and Toll Free Numbers Anguilla General Support toll free 800 335 0031 Antigua and Barbuda General Support 1 800 805 5924 Argentina Buenos Aires International Access Code 00 Country Code 54 City Code 11 Website www dell com ar E mai...

Page 110: ...s International Access Code 00 Country Code 32 City Code 2 Website support euro dell com Tech Support for XPS portable computers only 02 481 92 96 Tech Support for all other Dell computers 02 481 92 88 Tech Support Fax 02 481 92 95 Customer Care 02 713 15 65 Corporate Sales 02 481 91 00 Fax 02 481 92 99 Switchboard 02 481 91 00 Bermuda General Support 1 800 342 0671 Bolivia General Support toll fr...

Page 111: ...ess toll free 1 800 847 4096 Hardware Warranty Support Home Sales Small Business toll free 1 800 906 3355 Hardware Warranty Support med large bus government toll free 1 800 387 5757 Hardware Warranty Support printers projectors televisions handhelds digital jukebox and wireless 1 877 335 5767 Sales Home Sales Small Business toll free 1 800 387 5752 Sales med large bus government toll free 1 800 38...

Page 112: ... Accounts Division toll free 800 858 2557 Large Corporate Accounts GCP toll free 800 858 2055 Large Corporate Accounts Key Accounts toll free 800 858 2628 Large Corporate Accounts North toll free 800 858 2999 Large Corporate Accounts North Government and Education toll free 800 858 2955 Large Corporate Accounts East toll free 800 858 2020 Large Corporate Accounts East Government and Education toll...

Page 113: ...re 3287 5505 Switchboard Relational 3287 1200 Switchboard Fax Relational 3287 1201 Switchboard Home Small Business 3287 5000 Switchboard Fax Home Small Business 3287 5001 Dominica General Support toll free 1 866 278 6821 Dominican Republic General Support 1 800 148 0530 Ecuador General Support toll free 999 119 El Salvador General Support 01 899 753 0777 Finland Helsinki International Access Code ...

Page 114: ...55 94 71 00 Sales 01 55 94 71 00 Fax 01 55 94 71 01 Germany Langen International Access Code 00 Country Code 49 City Code 6103 Website support euro dell com E mail tech_support_central_europe dell com Technical Support for XPS portable computers only 06103 766 7222 Technical Support for all other Dell computers 06103 766 7200 Home Small Business Customer Care 0180 5 224400 Global Segment Customer ...

Page 115: ...port Dimension and Inspiron 2969 3188 Technical Support OptiPlex Latitude and Dell Precision 2969 3191 Technical Support PowerApp PowerEdge PowerConnect and PowerVault 2969 3196 Customer Care 3416 0910 Large Corporate Accounts 3416 0907 Global Customer Programs 3416 0908 Medium Business Division 3416 0912 Home and Small Business Division 2969 3105 India E mail india_support_desktop dell com india_...

Page 116: ...ial within U K only 0870 907 4499 Ireland Sales 01 204 4444 U K Sales dial within U K only 0870 907 4000 Fax Sales Fax 01 204 0103 Switchboard 01 204 4444 Italy Milan International Access Code 00 Country Code 39 City Code 02 Website support euro dell com Home and Small Business Technical Support 02 577 826 90 Customer Care 02 696 821 14 Fax 02 696 821 13 Switchboard 02 696 821 12 Corporate Technic...

Page 117: ...vice 044 556 3490 24 Hour Automated Order Service 044 556 3801 Customer Care 044 556 4240 Business Sales Division up to 400 employees 044 556 1465 Preferred Accounts Division Sales over 400 employees 044 556 3433 Large Corporate Accounts Sales over 3500 employees 044 556 3430 Public Sales government agencies educational institutions and medical institutions 044 556 1469 Global Segment Japan 044 55...

Page 118: ...Support toll free 0800 105 Customer Service Xiamen China 34 160 910 Transaction Sales Xiamen China 29 693 115 Malaysia Penang International Access Code 00 Country Code 60 City Code 4 Website support ap dell com Technical Support Dell Precision OptiPlex and Latitude toll free 1 800 880 193 Technical Support Dimension Inspiron and Electronics and Accessories toll free 1 800 881 306 Technical Support...

Page 119: ...al Support for all other Dell computers 020 674 45 00 Technical Support Fax 020 674 47 66 Home Small Business Customer Care 020 674 42 00 Relational Customer Care 020 674 4325 Home Small Business Sales 020 674 55 00 Relational Sales 020 674 50 00 Home Small Business Sales Fax 020 674 47 75 Relational Sales Fax 020 674 47 50 Switchboard 020 674 50 00 Switchboard Fax 020 674 47 50 New Zealand Intern...

Page 120: ...Customer Service Phone 57 95 700 Customer Care 57 95 999 Sales 57 95 999 Customer Service Fax 57 95 806 Reception Desk Fax 57 95 998 Switchboard 57 95 999 Portugal International Access Code 00 Country Code 351 Website support euro dell com Technical Support 707200149 Customer Care 800 300 413 Sales 800 300 410 or 800 300 411 or 800 300 412 or 21 422 07 10 Fax 21 424 01 12 Puerto Rico General Suppo...

Page 121: ...1 Website support euro dell com E mail czech_dell dell com Technical Support 02 5441 5727 Customer Care 420 22537 2707 Fax 02 5441 8328 Tech Fax 02 5441 8328 Switchboard Sales 02 5441 7585 South Africa Johannesburg International Access Code 09 091 Country Code 27 City Code 11 Website support euro dell com E mail dell_za_support dell com Gold Queue 011 709 7713 Technical Support 011 709 7710 Custom...

Page 122: ... Care 08 590 05 642 Home Small Business Customer Care 08 587 70 527 Employee Purchase Program EPP Support 20 140 14 44 Technical Support Fax 08 590 05 594 Sales 08 590 05 185 Switzerland Geneva International Access Code 00 Country Code 41 City Code 22 Website support euro dell com E mail Tech_support_central_Europe dell com Technical Support for XPS portable computers only 0848 33 88 57 Technical ...

Page 123: ...hailand International Access Code 001 Country Code 66 Website support ap dell com Technical Support OptiPlex Latitude and Dell Precision toll free 1800 0060 07 Technical Support PowerApp PowerEdge PowerConnect and PowerVault toll free 1800 0600 09 Customer Care toll free 1800 006 007 option 7 Corporate Sales toll free 1800 006 009 Transaction Sales toll free 1800 006 006 Trinidad Tobago General Su...

Page 124: ...mer Care 01344 373 186 Home and Small Business Customer Care 0870 906 0010 Corporate Customer Care 01344 373 185 Preferred Accounts 500 5000 employees Customer Care 0870 906 0010 Central Government Customer Care 01344 373 193 Local Government Education Customer Care 01344 373 199 Health Customer Care 01344 373 194 Home and Small Business Sales 0870 907 4000 Corporate Public Sector Sales 01344 860 ...

Page 125: ...rchase Program EPP Customers toll free 1 800 695 8133 Support for printers projectors PDAs and MP3 players toll free 1 877 459 7298 Public government education and healthcare Customer Service and Support toll free 1 800 456 3355 Employee Purchase Program EPP Customers toll free 1 800 695 8133 Dell Sales toll free 1 800 289 3355 or toll free 1 800 879 3355 Dell Outlet Store Dell refurbished compute...

Page 126: ...126 Appendix ...

Page 127: ...rs during which a portable computer battery is able to be depleted and recharged battery operating time The length of time minutes or hours that a portable computer battery powers the computer BIOS basic input output system A program or utility that serves as an interface between the computer hardware and the operating system Unless you understand what effect these settings have on the computer do...

Page 128: ...ocated on a sticker on your computer Also referred to as the Product Key or Product ID Control Panel A Windows utility that allows you to modify operating system and hardware settings such as display settings controller A chip that controls the transfer of data between the processor and memory or between the processor and devices CRIMM continuity rambus in line memory module A special module that ...

Page 129: ...ircuitry for testing the accuracy of data as it passes in and out of memory ECP extended capabilities port A parallel connector design that provides improved bidirectional data transmission Similar to EPP ECP uses direct memory access to transfer data and often improves performance EIDE enhanced integrated device electronics An improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives and CD drives EM...

Page 130: ...eds for computer processors buses and interfaces are often measured in GHz graphics mode A video mode that can be defined as x horizontal pixels by y vertical pixels by z colors Graphics modes can display an unlimited variety of shapes and fonts GUI graphical user interface Software that interacts with the user by means of menus windows and icons Most programs that operate on the Windows operating...

Page 131: ... the same time kHz kilohertz A measurement of frequency that equals 1000 Hz L LAN local area network A computer network covering a small area A LAN usually is confined to a building or a few nearby buildings A LAN can be connected to another LAN over any distance through telephone lines and radio waves to form a wide area network WAN LCD liquid crystal display The technology used by portable compu...

Page 132: ...rea The section of the Windows taskbar that contains icons for providing quick access to programs and computer functions such as the clock volume control and print status Also referred to as system tray ns nanosecond A measure of time that equals one billionth of a second NVRAM nonvolatile random access memory A type of memory that stores data when the computer is turned off or loses its external ...

Page 133: ...ware product Typically readme files provide installation information and describe new product enhancements or corrections that have not yet been documented read only Data and or files you can view but cannot edit or delete A file can have read only status if It resides on a physically write protected floppy disk CD or DVD It is located on a network in a directory and the system administrator has a...

Page 134: ... and from an analog format which could degrade the quality of the file standby mode A power management mode that shuts down all unnecessary computer operations to save energy Strike Zone Reinforced area of the platform base that protects the hard drive by acting as a dampening device when a computer experiences resonating shock or is dropped whether the computer is on or off surge protectors Preve...

Page 135: ... are twisted to protect against electromagnetic interference rather than relying on a metal sheath around each pair of wires to protect against interference UXGA ultra extended graphics array A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1600 x 1200 V video controller The circuitry on a video card or on the system board in computers with an integrated video contr...

Page 136: ...eless wide area network A wireless high speed data network using cellular technology and covering a much larger geographic area than WLAN WXGA wide aspect extended graphics array A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1280 x 800 X XGA extended graphics array A video standard for video cards and controllers that supports resolutions up to 1024 x 768 Z ZIF z...

Page 137: ... inside view 62 restore to previous state 54 stops responding 36 connectors headphone 14 power 15 USB 14 VGA 17 video 17 copying CDs general information 22 helpful tips 23 how to 22 copying DVDs general information 22 helpful tips 23 how to 22 cover removing 60 replacing 90 D Dell contacting 108 support policy 107 Dell Diagnostics 50 Dell support site 11 diagnostic lights 47 diagnostics Dell 50 li...

Page 138: ...ecommended tools 59 turning off your computer 59 Internet connection about 18 connection options 18 problems 33 Internet connection setting up 19 K keyboard problems 35 L labels Microsoft Windows 10 Service Tag 10 13 latch release cover 13 lights diagnostic 14 47 front of computer 47 hard drive activity 14 M Media Card Reader installing 83 85 problems 38 removing 83 84 using 24 memory DDR2 overvie...

Page 139: ... 31 DVD drive 32 e mail 33 error messages 34 general 36 hard drive 33 Internet 33 keyboard 35 Media Card Reader 38 memory 38 modem 33 monitor is blank 44 monitor is hard to read 45 mouse 39 network 40 power 40 power light conditions 40 printer 41 program crashes 36 program stops responding 36 programs and Windows compatibility 37 restore to previous state 54 scanner 42 screen is blank 44 screen is...

Page 140: ...ostic lights 47 Hardware Troubleshooter 54 Help and Support Center 11 restore to previous state 54 tips 31 U USB booting to devices 103 connectors 14 V vents 14 front panel 14 VGA connector 17 video connector 17 volume adjusting 43 W warranty information 9 Windows XP Device Driver Rollback 53 Hardware Troubleshooter 54 Help and Support Center 11 Network Setup Wizard 27 Program Compatibility Wizard...

Search results

Summary of Contents for Dimension C521

Reviews:

Related manuals for Dimension C521

Brands by name

Popular brands

Dell Dimension C521, Owner'S Manual

Search results

Summary of Contents for Dimension C521

Reviews:

Related manuals for Dimension C521

Brands by name

Popular brands