This section provides information about WARNING: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in setting up your Dell XPS laptop. the air vents. Do not place your Dell Before Setting Up Your computer in a low-airflow environment, Computer...
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop 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.
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Set Up Microsoft Windows Your Dell computer is preconfigured with the Microsoft Windows operating system. To set up Windows for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete. The Windows setup screens will take you through several procedures including accepting license agreements, setting preferences, and setting up an Internet connection.
You will require the following to create the system recovery media: • Dell DataSafe Local Backup • USB key with a minimum capacity of 8 GB or DVD‑R/DVD+R/Blu‑ray Disc NOTE: Dell DataSafe Local Backup does not support rewritable discs.
Page 15
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop To create a system recovery media: Ensure that the AC adapter is connected (see “Connect the AC Adapter” on page Insert the disc or USB key in the computer. → All Programs→ Dell DataSafe Local Backup. Start Click Click Create Recovery Media.
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Install the SIM Card (Optional) NOTE: Installing a SIM card is not required if you are using an EVDO card to access the Internet. NOTE: Installing a mini B‑CAS card into the SIM card slot is required to set up and view ISDB‑T digital TV in Japan.
Page 17
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop SIM card battery bay SIM card slot...
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Enable or Disable Wireless (Optional)
Page 19
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop To enable or disable wireless: Ensure that your computer is turned on. Press the <Fn><F2> keys on the keyboard. The current status of the wireless radios appears on the screen. Wireless enabled Wireless disabled Press the <Fn><F2> keys again to switch between the wireless enabled or disabled states. NOTE: Pressing the <Fn><F2>...
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Set Up Wireless Display To set up wireless display: Turn on your computer. (Optional) Ensure that wireless is enabled (see “Enable NOTE: The wireless display feature may or Disable Wireless” on page 16). not be supported on all computers. For Connect the wireless display adapter to information about the hardware and the TV.
“Intel Wireless Display computer and insert the mini B‑CAS card Connection Manager” from into the SIM card slot on your computer support.dell.com. (Japan only). NOTE: For more information about Connect the TV/digital antenna cable wireless display, see the wireless display or the cable adapter to the antenna‑in...
Follow the instructions on the screen to check box. complete the setup. Stereoscopic 3D display type From the NOTE: If you experience discomfort drop‑down menu select Dell 3D Vision while viewing 3D display, stop viewing Laptop. the display, remove your 3D glasses, and take rest.
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Set Up 3D TV (Optional) NOTE: If you are unable to view the entire Windows desktop on your TV, use NOTE: To know if your TV supports the the 3D TV’s settings to reduce the display 3D features available on your computer, resolution.
Page 24
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Set up the NVIDIA 3DTV Play application: For Blu‑ray 3D playback, set the resolution to 1080p, 1920x1080 and In the NVIDIA Control Panel window, refresh rate to 24/23 Hz in HD 3D click Stereoscopic 3D to expand the mode.
If an external USB modem or WLAN adapter wireless router. is not a part of your original order, you can To set up your connection to a wireless purchase one from dell.com. router: Setting Up a Wired Connection Ensure that wireless is enabled on your computer (see “Enable or Disable Wireless”...
Page 26
Setting Up Your XPS Laptop Setting Up Your Internet To set up your Internet connection: Connection Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. → Control Panel. Click Start Contact your ISP for offerings available in your country.
Using Your XPS Laptop This section provides information about the features available on your Dell XPS laptop. Right View Features...
Page 29
Using Your XPS Laptop 1 Optical drive — Plays or records CDs, DVDs, and Blu‑ray Discs (optional). For more information, see “Using the Optical Drive” on page 46. 2 Optical drive light — Blinks when you press the optical drive eject button or when you insert a disc and it is being read.
Page 31
Using Your XPS Laptop eSATA/USB combo connector with USB PowerShare — Connects to eSATA compatible storage devices (such as external hard drives or optical drives) or USB devices (such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player). The USB PowerShare feature allows you to charge USB devices when the computer is powered on/off or in sleep state.
Page 33
Using Your XPS Laptop USB 2.0 connector — Connects to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player. 9-in-1 Media Card Reader — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, videos, and documents stored on memory cards. For the supported memory cards, see “Specifications”...
Page 35
Using Your XPS Laptop 1 Antenna-in connector (on supported models) — Connects to an external antenna (included) or coaxial cable (adapter included) to view programs using the TV tuner card (optional). Mini-DisplayPort connector — Digital interface standard connector that connects to external DisplayPort monitors and projectors.
Using Your XPS Laptop Computer Base and Keyboard Features...
Page 37
Using Your XPS Laptop Battery status light — Indicates the battery charge status. For more information on the battery status light, see “Status Lights and Indicators” on page 38. Hard drive activity light — Turns on when the computer reads or writes data. A solid white light indicates hard drive activity.
Page 39
Using Your XPS Laptop 6 Keyboard/Backlit Keyboard (optional) — If you have purchased the optional backlit keyboard, the F6 key has the backlit keyboard icon on it. The optional backlit keyboard provides visibility in dark environments by illuminating all symbols on the keys. Backlit keyboard brightness settings —...
Using Your XPS Laptop Status Lights and Indicators Battery Status Light Indicator light status Computer state(s) Battery charge status AC adapter solid white on/standby/off/ charging hibernate on/standby/off/ fully charged hibernate Battery solid amber on/standby low battery (<= 10%) on/standby/off/ not charging hibernate Power Button Light XPS Logo Light...
Power Options and press <Enter>. In the search box, type In the Power Options window, click Dell Battery Meter. Battery Settings window, click Turn off Battery Charging and then click OK. In the NOTE: Battery charging can also be disabled in the System Setup (BIOS) utility.
Using Your XPS Laptop Touch Pad Gestures Scroll Horizontal — Allows you to scroll left or right on the active window. Scroll Move two fingers left or right Allows you to scroll through content. The to scroll the selected object. scroll feature includes: Scroll Vertical —...
Page 43
Using Your XPS Laptop Zoom Rotate Allows you to increase or decrease the Allows you to rotate the active content on the magnification of the screen content. The screen. The rotate feature includes: zoom feature includes: Twist — Allows you to rotate the active Pinch —...
Using Your XPS Laptop Multimedia Control Keys The multimedia control keys are located on the function key row on the keyboard. To use the multimedia controls, press the required key. You can configure the multimedia control keys using the System Setup (BIOS) utility or Windows Mobility Center. System Setup Press <F2>...
Page 45
Using Your XPS Laptop Play the previous track or chapter Decrease the volume level Play or pause Increase the volume level Play the next track or chapter Mute the sound...
Page 47
Instant launch control — Touch to launch a predefined application of your choice. Audio control-panel control — Touch to launch the Dell Audio control panel. The control panel allows you to setup studio‑quality audio output on your computer. You can also change the audio settings such as volume, external speaker setup, and microphone setup.
Using Your XPS Laptop Using the Optical Drive CAUTION: Do not press down on the optical drive tray when you open or close it. Keep the optical drive tray closed when you are not using the drive. CAUTION: Do not move the computer while playing or recording a disc. The optical drive plays or records CDs, DVDs, and Blu‑ray Discs (optional).
Page 49
Using Your XPS Laptop disc spindle optical drive tray 4 emergency eject hole eject button...
Page 51
Using Your XPS Laptop 1 Microphone — Provides high quality sound for video conferencing and voice recording. 2 Camera indicator light — Indicates if the camera is on or off. 3 Camera — Built‑in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. The camera supports the H.264 video compression codec, which provides high quality video at low data transmission rates.
Using Your XPS Laptop Touch Screen Gestures Dwell Allows you to access additional information (Optional) by simulating a right‑click. NOTE: Some of these gestures are Press and hold a finger on application‑specific and may not work the touch screen, to open across applications.
Page 53
Using Your XPS Laptop Scroll Scroll Horizontal — Allows you to scroll right or left on the active window. Allows you to scroll through content. The Move a finger to the scroll features include: right or left to activate Pan — Allows you to move the focus on the horizontal scrolling.
This computer should on the battery bay. only use a battery purchased from Press the battery down until the battery Dell. Do not use batteries from other release latch clicks. computers. WARNING: Before removing the battery, shut down the computer, and remove external cables (including the AC adapter).
Page 55
Using Your XPS Laptop battery release latch battery tabs (3)
You can also edit recognition feature. This feature helps keep and view digital photographs and images. your Dell computer secure by learning the Check your purchase order for software unique appearance of your face and uses this installed on your computer.
Dell DataSafe Online is an automated backup disc, saved on portable products such as MP3 and recovery service that helps protect players and handheld entertainment devices,...
Using Your XPS Laptop NVIDIA Optimus • If an application profile exists, the NVIDIA GPU is enabled and the application Technology (Optional) runs in performance mode. The NVIDIA GPU is disabled automatically when the Your XPS laptop is equipped with NVIDIA’s application is closed.
Using Your XPS Laptop NVIDIA 3DTV Play Changing the Application Profile Settings The NVIDIA 3DTV Play application installed Right‑click the desktop and select NVIDIA on your computer allows you to play 3D Control Panel. games, watch Blu‑ray 3D videos, and browse 3D photos.
Page 60
Using Your XPS Laptop Keyboard Shortcuts The following are some of the keyboard shortcuts available for 3D gaming: Keys Description Function <Ctrl><t> Show/hide Turns 3DTV Play on/off. stereoscopic 3D NOTE: The gaming performance may reduce effects when using HD 3D mode even if 3DTV Play is disabled.
Page 61
Using Your XPS Laptop <Ctrl><F6> Increases Moves objects towards you; maximum convergence convergence places all objects in front of the scene in your space; also used to place the laser sight. <Ctrl><F5> Decreases Moves objects away from you; minimum convergence convergence places all objects behind the scene in your space;...
Page 62
Using Your XPS Laptop 3D Photos Blu-ray 3D You can view stereoscopic 3D photos using The NVIDIA 3DTV Play application allows the NVIDIA Photo Viewer available in the you to watch Blu‑ray 3D videos at 1080p NVIDIA 3DTV Play application. The photo resolution.
Using Your XPS Laptop Dell Dock (Optional) The Dell Dock is a group of icons that provides easy access to frequently‑used applications, files, and folders. You can personalize the Dock by: • Adding or removing icons • Changing the color and location of the Dock •...
DOCUMENTS — Provides quick access to Stage. the Documents folder on your computer. • Minimize — Drag the Dell Stage window to the bottom of the screen. • Personalize — Select the settings icon and then choose the desired option.
Page 65
Internet. STICKYNOTES. You can also save notes on your desktop. • DELL WEB — Provides a preview of up to four of your favorite web pages. Click or • Web Tile — Provides a preview of up to four tap the web page preview to open it in the of your favorite web pages.
Using Your XPS Laptop Free Fall Sensor Free fall sensor protects your computer hard drive from possible damage, by detecting a free fall state caused by accidentally dropping the computer. When a free fall state is detected, the hard drive is placed in a safe state to protect against damage to the read/write head and possible data loss.
Possible system board failure — guidelines, see “Using Support Tools” on BIOS ROM checksum failure page 72 or “Contacting Dell” on page 93. WARNING: Only trained service No RAM detected NOTE: If you installed or personnel should remove the computer cover.
Solving Problems Touch Screen Problems If the touch screen starts losing its sensitivity — The touch screen may have Some or all multi-touch features are not foreign particles (such as sticky notes) that are working — blocking the touch sensors. To remove these •...
Solving Problems Network Problems Wired Connections If the wired network connection is lost — Wireless Connections The network cable is loose or damaged. If the wireless network connection is lost — • Check the network cable to ensure it is The wireless router is offline or wireless has plugged in and not damaged.
• Reseat the AC adapter cable into both the • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see power connector on the computer and “Contacting Dell” on page 93). the electrical outlet. If the power light is breathing white — The •...
• Reseat the memory module(s) into the connector(s) (see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals). • If the problem persists, contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 93). If you experience other memory problems — • Run Dell Diagnostics (see “Dell Diagnostics”...
Solving Problems Lockups and Software If a program is designed for an earlier Microsoft Windows operating system — Problems Run the Program Compatibility Wizard. The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a If the computer does not start up — Ensure program so that it runs in an environment that the AC adapter cable is firmly connected similar to an earlier version of Microsoft to the computer and to the electrical outlet.
Page 73
Save and close any open files or programs – If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall and shut down your computer through the the program. Start menu. – Write down any error message that is displayed to help in troubleshooting when contacting Dell.
The Dell Support Center provides system alerts, changes made to your computer each day. performance improvement offers, system PC Checkup Utilities information, and links to other Dell tools and • Drive Space Manager — Manage your hard diagnostic services.
Some of the software pre‑installed on your new Dell computer do not include a backup Get Help — View Dell Technical Support CD or DVD. This software is available on options, Customer Support, Tours and Training, the My Dell Downloads website.
Press <F2> during POST (Power On best describes the problem and follow the Self Test) to enter the System Setup (BIOS) remaining troubleshooting steps. utility. Start Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities disc.
Page 77
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been Your Hard Drive found, run Dell Diagnostics from the Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden Drivers and Utilities disc. diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive. If PSA is invoked: NOTE: If your computer cannot The PSA will start running tests.
Page 78
If PSA is not invoked: The Service Tag helps you identify your Press any key to start Dell Diagnostics from computer when you contact Dell. the diagnostic utility partition on your hard...
Page 79
Insert the Drivers and Utilities disc. <Enter>. Shut down and restart the computer. Type 1 to start the CD menu and press When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> <Enter> to proceed. immediately. Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics Select NOTE: If you wait too long and the from the numbered list.
Page 80
Write down the error code and problem description and contact Dell (see “Contacting Dell” on page 93) for assistance. NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is displayed at the top of each test screen.
You can restore the operating system on your computer using any of the following options: CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image Restore or the Operating System disc to restore your operating system permanently deletes all data files on your computer. If possible, backup your data files before using these options.
Restoring Your Operating System System Restore Click Next and follow the instructions on the screen. The Microsoft Windows operating systems In the event that System Restore did not provide a System Restore option which allows resolve the issue, you may undo the last you to return your computer to an earlier system restore.
Restoring Your Operating System Dell DataSafe Local You can use Dell DataSafe Local Backup to restore your hard drive to the operating state Backup it was in when you purchased your computer, while preserving the data files. CAUTION: Using Dell DataSafe Local...
Page 84
Restoring Your Operating System Upgrading to Dell DataSafe Local Turn on your computer. When the DELL logo appears, press <F8> Backup Professional several times to access the Advanced Boot NOTE: Dell DataSafe Local Backup Options window. Professional may be installed on your...
Restoring Your Operating System System Recovery Media To restore the operating system and Dell factory‑installed software on your computer CAUTION: Although the system using the system recovery media: recovery media is designed to preserve Insert the system recovery disc or USB key the data files on your computer, it is and restart the computer.
Restoring Your Operating System Dell Factory Image Use Dell Factory Image Restore only as the last method to restore your operating system. Restore This option restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased CAUTION: Using Dell Factory Image the computer.
Page 87
Dell Factory Image Restore. Click Finish to restart the computer. Click The Dell Factory Image Restore welcome screen appears. NOTE: Depending upon your configuration, you may need to select Dell Factory Tools, then Dell Factory Image Restore.
Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do not Fill out the “Diagnostic Checklist” on have an Express Service Code, open the Dell page 92. Accessories folder, double‑click the Express Use Dell’s extensive suite of online Service Code icon, and follow the directions.
Technical Support and DellConnect Customer Service DellConnect is a simple online access tool that allows a Dell service and support Dell’s support service is available to answer associate to access your computer through your questions about Dell hardware. Our a broadband connection, diagnose your support staff use computer‑based diagnostics...
Getting Help Online Services Dell Support E-mail Addresses • mobile_support@us.dell.com You can learn about Dell products and support@us.dell.com services on the following websites: • la-techsupport@dell.com • dell.com • (Latin America and Caribbean countries only) • dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) apsupport@dell.com •...
Dell, or if you would To check on the status of any Dell products like to place an order, go to the Dell website that you have ordered, you can go to at dell.com. For the telephone number to support.dell.com, or you can call the...
(see “Dell Diagnostics” on page 74). NOTE: Before you return the product to Include any accessories that belong with Dell, ensure that you back up any data the item(s) being returned (AC adapter on the hard drive(s) and on any other cable, software, guides, and so on) if the storage device in the product.
Getting Help Before You Call NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell’s automated‑support telephone system direct your call more efficiently. You may also be asked for your Service Tag. Locating Your Service Tag The Service Tag for your computer can be found on a label at the bottom of your computer.
Page 94
Getting Help Remember to fill out the following Diagnostic Checklist Diagnostic Checklist. If possible, turn on your • Name: computer before you call Dell for assistance • Date: and call from a telephone at or near the • Address: computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed •...
Availability performed: 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: dell.com/ContactDell. Go to Select your country or region.
“System Recovery Media” on page 83 run a diagnostic program for your computer “Dell Diagnostics” on page 74 reinstall system software “My Dell Downloads” on page 73 for more information about the Microsoft support.dell.com Windows operating system and features find your Service Tag/Express Service Code —...
Page 97
Regulatory Compliance Homepage at review Warranty information, Terms and dell.com/regulatory_compliance Conditions (U.S. only), Safety instructions, Regulatory information, Ergonomics information, and End User License Agreement find drivers and downloads; readme files support.dell.com...
NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, see the Detailed System Information section in the Dell Support Center. → All Programs→ Dell→ To launch the Dell Support Center, click Start Dell Support Center→...
Page 99
1066 MHz/1333 MHz Network one RJ45 connector SODIMM DDR3 adapter NOTE: For instructions on upgrading two 4‑pin USB the memory, see the Service Manual at 3.0‑compliant connectors support.dell.com/manuals. one 4‑pin USB 2.0‑compliant connector Connectors Mini‑ one 20‑pin connector Audio one microphone‑in DisplayPort...
Specifications Media Card Reader Communications Cards Secure Digital (SD) Modem external V.92 56 K USB supported memory card (optional) modem Secure Digital Input Network 10/100/1000 Ethernet Output (SDIO) adapter LAN on system board Secure Digital High Wireless WLAN, WWAN (optional), Capacity (SDHC) WiMAX/Wi‑Fi abgn/agn, and Bluetooth wireless...
Page 101
Specifications Video Display Integrated: Dimensions: Video Intel HD Graphics Height 214.81 mm (8.46 inches) controller Width 381.89 mm (15.04 inches) Video up to 1.6 GB Diagonal 439.42 mm (17.30 inches) memory Maximum HD+: 1600 x 900 Discrete: resolution FHD: 1920 x 1080 Video NVIDIA GeForce GT 550M Refresh rate...
Page 102
Specifications Battery Battery 9‑cell “smart” lithium ion: Operating time battery operating time varies depending on Height 221.07 mm (8.70 inches) operating conditions Width 54.35 mm (2.14 inches) Coin‑cell CR‑2032 Depth 42.53 mm (1.67 inches) battery Weight 0.52 kg (1.14 lb) AC Adapter 6‑cell “smart”...
Specifications AC Adapter Touch Pad Output current: X/Y position 240 cpi resolution 130 W 6.70 A (continuous) (graphics table mode) 150 W 7.70 A (continuous) Size: Rated output 19.5 VDC voltage Width 100 mm (3.94 inches) Operating 0° to 40°C Height 56 mm (2.2 inches) temperature...
Page 104
Specifications Computer Environment Computer Environment Temperature range: Maximum shock (for operating — measured with Dell Diagnostics running on the hard Operating 0° to 35°C drive and a 2‑ms half‑sine pulse; for (32° to 95°F) non‑operating — measured with the hard Storage –40°...
The following information is provided in the device(s) described in this document in accordance with the requirements of the Official Mexican Standard (NOM): Importer: Dell México S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 – Flat 11° Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F.
DataSafe Local Backup 81 backup and recovery 55 DellConnect 87 battery status light 35 Dell Diagnostics 74 B‑CAS card 14 Dell Factory Image Restore 84 Dell Stage 62 Diagnostic Checklist 92 calling Dell 91 drivers and downloads 95 Camera 49...
Page 107
Index finding more information 94 memory problems flick 50 solving 69 FTP login, anonymous 88 mini‑DisplayPort connector 33 Multimedia Control Keys 42 hard drive activity light 35 hardware problems network connection diagnosing 74 fixing 67 Hardware Troubleshooter 74 NVIDIA Optimus Technology 56 help getting assistance and support 86 Optical Drive...
Page 108
Index products System Recovery Media 83 information and purchasing 89 system reinstall options 79 System Restore 80 System Setup resources, finding more 94 entering 42 restoring factory image 84 function key behavior 42 setup, before you begin 7 Touch Pad shipping products Gestures 40 for return or repair 90...
Page 109
Index warranty returns 90 Windows Program Compatibility Wizard 70 Windows Mobility Center 42 wired network network cable, connecting 9 wireless network connection 67...
Page 112
Printed in the U.S.A. www.dell.com | support.dell.com www.dell.com | support.dell.com 0C4XC4A00...