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Dell Dimension XPS 50 Reference Manual
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Dell Dimension XPS 50 Reference Manual

Dell Dimension XPS 50 Reference Manual

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  • Page 1                    ...
  • Page 2 Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Computer Corporation is strictly forbidden. Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Be Direct, Dimension, Inspiron, OptiPlex, DellWare, and Latitude are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation; Intel, LANDesk, and Pentium are registered trademarks and Streaming is a trademark of Intel Corporation;...
  • Page 3    Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer system from poten- tial damage and to ensure your own personal safety. As you use your computer system, observe the following safety guidelines. To help avoid damaging your computer, be sure the voltage selection switch on the power supply is set to match the AC power available at your location: —...
  • Page 4 Position your system so that the monitor and keyboard are directly in front of you as you work. Special shelves are available (from Dell and other sources) to help you correctly position your keyboard.
  • Page 5 Vary your work activities. Try to organize your work so that you do not have to type for extended periods of time. When you stop typing, try to do things that use both hands. monitor screen at or below eye level wrists relaxed and flat monitor and keyboard...
  • Page 6 Disconnect any devices connected to the computer, including the monitor, from their electrical outlets to reduce the potential for personal injury or shock. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer. In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself.

  • Page 7: Diagnostic Codes

       This guide is intended for anyone who uses a Dell Dimension XPS Txxx or Txxxr sys- tem. It can be used by both first-time and experienced computer users who want to learn about the features and operation of the systems or who want to upgrade their computers.
  • Page 8 The Getting Started sheet provides step-by-step instructions for setting up your computer system. The Dell Dimension Systems Setup Guide describes how to properly set up your operating system and connect a printer. The Dell Dimension XPS Txxx or Txxxr Systems Help describes the features and operation of your computer.
  • Page 9 The following list defines (where appropriate) and illustrates typographical conven- tions used as visual cues for specific elements of text throughout this document: Interface components are window titles, button and icon names, menu names and selections, and other options that appear on the monitor screen or display. They are presented in bold.
  • Page 10 Screen text is a message or text that you are instructed to type as part of a com- mand (referred to as a command line). Screen text is presented in the Courier New font. Example: The following message appears on your screen: No boot device available Example: “Type md c:\programs and press <Enter>.”...

  • Page 11: Table Of Contents

     Hardware Features ..........1-1 Software Features .
  • Page 12 Adding Memory ..........2-16 Installing a DIMM .
  • Page 13 Dell Diagnostics Main Screen ........
  • Page 14 Dell Contact Numbers........
  • Page 15 Diagnostic Codes........... C-1 POST Beep Codes.
  • Page 16 Diagnostics Menu ........4-11 Figure 4-2. Dell Diagnostics Main Screen ......4-12 Figure 5-1.
  • Page 17 Dell Contact Numbers ........7-9...

  • Page 19: Main Screen

                Dell™ Dimension™ XPS Txxx and Txxxr computer systems are high-speed personal ® ® computers that include an Intel Pentium III microprocessor. These systems com- bine high-performance Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) design with accelerated graphics port (AGP) and Industry-Standard Architecture (ISA) design, allowing a wide range of initial configurations and upgrade possibilities.
  • Page 20 Contact the USB device manufacturer for more information. A PS/2-style keyboard port and a PS/2-compatible mouse port. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr systems are available with and without inte- grated sound. For systems with integrated sound, a Yamaha 724 DS-1 PCI advanced audio controller with 3D positioning and Direct Sound acceleration pro- vides audio functions compatible with a Sound Blaster Pro expansion card.
  • Page 21 (LAN) traffic is at a minimum. The upgrades Dell offers undergo rigorous testing to ensure proper operation with your computer. You should review “Expansion Card Upgrades” in Chapter 2 or Chapter 3, “Installing Drives,”...
  • Page 22 Dell. You must reinstall application programs and restore data files. Dell recommends that you back up the hard-disk drive at least once a week, with a daily backup of those files that have been changed. Following these guidelines ensures the loss of no more than a day's work.
  • Page 23 Tape and Zip drives are convenient and affordable devices that can back up data at rates of up to 1.6 megabytes per second (MB/sec) and can often run unattended. Dell recommends these drives and their associated backup software for use as system backup devices.
  • Page 24 After cleaning, make sure the rollers are still centered in their channels. Make sure that fluff from the swab is not left on the rollers. Replace the ball and retainer ring. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 25 AC power is lost. AC power, while available, charges the battery; when AC power is lost, the battery provides power to the system for a limited amount of time—from 15 minutes to an hour or so—depending on the UPS system. support.dell.com Introduction...
  • Page 26 A UPS system should be Underwriters Lab- oratories (UL) safety-approved. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 27 Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer. In addition, Dell recommends that you review the safety instructions at the front of this guide. support.dell.com...
  • Page 28 Loosen the cover-mounting thumbscrew shown in Figure 2-1 that secures the cover to the back of the computer. NOTE: The thumbscrew is captive and stays in the cover when loosened. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 29 Pull up the front end of the support beam (see Figure 2-2) until it snaps free from its fastener. Lift the front of the beam until the hinged tabs on the back end of the beam clear their slots. support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board...
  • Page 30 Position the cover on the chassis approximately 1 inch back. Slide the cover for- ward until it locks into place. Tighten the cover-mounting thumbscrew on the back of the chassis. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 31 DC power cables filler brackets diskette-drive interface cable secondary hard-disk drive bracket drive cage drive bays (typical) power indicator chassis power button hard-disk drive access indicator bezel card-guide assembly reset button (contains primary hard-disk drive) support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board...
  • Page 32 (typical) power indicator chassis power button hard-disk drive access indicator card-guide assembly bezel reset button (contains primary hard-disk drive) Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 33 (AUX IN) accelerated graphics port connector (AGP) PCI expansion-card battery socket (BT7C1) connectors (PCI1, PCI2, PCI3, configuration PCI4, and PCI5) jumper (J8A1) ISA expansion-card speaker (LS8A1) connector (ISA1) For systems with integrated audio support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board...
  • Page 34 Connectors ISA1 and PCI5 share a single card-slot opening, so only one of the two connectors can be used at any given time. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 35 1. Figure 2-5 shows the location of the system-board configuration jumper in your com- puter. Table 2-2 describes the settings and functions of the configuration jumper. support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board...
  • Page 36 Interconnect (PCI) expansion cards, 8- or 16-bit Industry-Standard Architecture (ISA) expansion cards, and a 32-bit accelerated graphics port (AGP) expansion card. Figure 2-6 shows examples of different types of expansion cards. 2-10 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 37 Diagnostics for an available interrupt request (IRQ) line that is supported by the card. To check Windows 98 resources, perform the following steps: Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click the System icon. support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board 2-11...

  • Page 38: Removing And Replacing The Computer Cover And Support Beam

    ISA expansion card manually. If you do not have a manually configurable card, you can use the ISA Configuration Utility (ICU) to manage an ISA expansion card. This utility can be downloaded from the Dell World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com. To install an expansion card, perform the following steps: Prepare the expansion card for installation as instructed in the documentation that came with the expansion card.
  • Page 39 Figure 2-8). If the expansion card is full-length, insert the front end of the card into the corresponding card guide at the front of the chassis as you insert the card into its connector. support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board 2-13...
  • Page 40 (see Figure 2-9). “Expansion Cards” in Chapter 6 provides more information on cor- rectly seating an expansion card. 2-14 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 41 NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification of the system. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer. support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board 2-15...
  • Page 42 The system may not recognize other synchronous dynamic random-access memory (SDRAM) DIMMs and may fail power-on self-test (POST). Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr systems can use SDRAM modules that provide error checking and correction (ECC) capabilities. To support ECC, all installed DIMMs must be ECC-capable.
  • Page 43 DIMMs in their sockets. Then repeat steps 5 and 6. Insert the Dell Dimension ResourceCD into the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive. For systems running Windows 98, also insert the Microsoft Windows 98 Boot Disk into the diskette drive.
  • Page 44 11. Type diags32 and press <Enter>. The DIAGNOSTICS MENU appears. 12. Run the RAM test group in the Dell Diagnostics to test all installed DIMMs. For instructions, refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4. To remove a DIMM, perform the following steps: Remove the computer cover and support beam according to the instructions in “Removing and Replacing the Computer Cover and Support Beam”...
  • Page 45 Locate the battery (see Figure 2-5) and pry it out of its socket with your fingers or with a blunt, nonconductive object, such as a plastic screwdriver. Insert the battery into the socket with the side labeled “+” facing up (see Figure 2-12). support.dell.com Installing Upgrades on the System Board 2-19...
  • Page 46 Replace the computer cover and support beam, and reconnect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets. Reboot the computer system, press <Del> when the blue Dell logo screen appears to enter the system setup program, and restore the correct settings.

  • Page 47: Removing And Replacing The Bezel

    Replacing the Computer Cover and Support Beam” in Chapter 2. While facing the front of the computer, press in the tabs at the top and side of the bezel as shown in Figure 3-1. bezel tabs (3) bezel tabs (3) support.dell.com Installing Drives...
  • Page 48 Three of these tabs contain a detent feature that locks the drive cage into place. The drive cage may be slightly difficult to slide forward until it is detached from the detents. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 49 The drive cage and chassis contain matching scribe marks that should line up when the drive cage is correctly installed. Replace the screw that secures the drive cage to the chassis. Reconnect any cables you disconnected earlier. support.dell.com Installing Drives...
  • Page 50 If you permanently remove a drive from the drive cage, replace the front-panel insert by inserting its two tabs into the slot in the bezel and rotating the insert forward until it snaps into place. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 51 (labeled “FLOPPY”) and two EIDE interface connectors (a primary one labeled “PRI IDE” and a secondary one labeled “SEC IDE”). Connect EIDE hard-disk drives to the primary connector; connect EIDE devices such as CD-ROM drives, Zip drives, or tape drives to the secondary connector. support.dell.com Installing Drives...
  • Page 52 In the desktop chassis, it holds up to two half-height, 5.25-inch devices and one 3.5-inch device. NOTE: Some devices may require additional hardware, such as a mounting kit for installing a 3.5-inch drive in a 5.25-inch bay. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 53: Removing The Drive Cage

    (2) front-panel insert retaining hook Slide the drive into its bay, and secure it to the drive cage with two screws on the left and one screw on the right (see Figure 3-7). support.dell.com Installing Drives...

  • Page 54: Replacing The Drive Cage

    Arrange cables so that they will not interfere with replacing the computer cover and support beam. 11. Replace the computer cover and support beam and tighten the cover-mounting thumbscrew. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 55: Removing A 3.5-Inch Insert

    14. If you installed a drive that requires device drivers, such as a CD-ROM drive, refer to the drive's documentation for driver installation instructions. 15. Verify the correct operation of the drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4).
  • Page 56 4) on the right side of the drive and the smaller (3-mm) screw on the left side. 1/4-inch drive-bracket mounting screw 3-mm screws for drive assembly (3) drive bracket 3-10 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 57: Connecting Drives

    15. If you installed a drive that requires device drivers, such as a CD-ROM drive, refer to the drive's documentation for driver installation instructions. 16. Verify the correct operation of the drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4).
  • Page 58 Attach the appropriate interface cable to the drive. If you installed a controller card in step 6, attach the other end of the interface cable to the controller card rather than the system board. 3-12 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 59 14. If you installed a drive that requires device drivers, such as a CD-ROM drive, refer to the drive's documentation for driver installation instructions. 15. Verify the correct operation of the drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4).
  • Page 60 10. Reconnect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them 11. Verify the correct operation of the drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4). To install a drive in the secondary hard-disk drive bay, perform the following steps: Prepare the drive for installation as described earlier in “Configuring Drives.”...
  • Page 61 Figure 3-13. Secure the drive to the bracket with one screw on the side opposite the tabs. support.dell.com Installing Drives 3-15...
  • Page 62 12. Replace the computer cover and support beam and tighten the cover-mounting thumbscrew. 13. Reconnect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them 14. Verify the correct operation of the drive by running the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4). 3-16...
  • Page 63 EIDE hard-disk drives must be physically formatted, partitioned, and logically format- ted before they can be used to store data. Every hard-disk drive purchased from Dell is physically formatted before it is sent to you. For the Microsoft Windows 98 and Windows 2000 operating systems, all drives use a single partition with the 32-bit file allocation table (FAT32) file system.
  • Page 64 SCSI connector on the SCSI host adapter card. You have a separate power cable to connect the SCSI device to an AC power source. 3-18 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 65: Inch Drives

    SCSI cables are keyed for proper positioning—a raised area on the outside of the header connector fits into a notch on the device connector. The connectors on wide SCSI cables are shaped so that they can be attached one way only. support.dell.com Installing Drives 3-19...

  • Page 66: Scsi Cables And Scsi Termination

    IDE drive options. For instructions, refer to Appendix B, “System Setup Program.” Tape drives attached to a SCSI host adapter card are not part of the system setup program’s configuration information. 3-20 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 67: Partitioning And Formatting Scsi Hard-Disk Drives

    Hard-Disk Drives,” and the operating system documentation. 13. Test the SCSI device(s). Test a SCSI hard-disk drive by running the SCSI Devices test group of the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4). To test a SCSI tape drive, refer to the documentation for the tape drive software to perform a tape drive backup and verification test.
  • Page 68 3-22 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 69: Preserving Data

    It can also direct you to the appropriate chapter in this guide for detailed troubleshooting information and procedures to solve more complex problems. You should complete the checks in this chapter before calling Dell for tech- nical assistance; even if these checks do not provide an immediate solution, they can help support technicians diagnose and fix the problem.

  • Page 70: Connections

    Verify that the settings in the system setup program match your computer’s con- figuration as explained in Appendix B, “System Setup Program.” Use the Dell Diagnostics to check your system (refer to “Running the Dell Diag- nostics” found later in this chapter).

  • Page 71: Environmental Factors

    Electrical conduits in an adjoining wall or elevators on the other side of the wall Large metal beams inside the wall behind the system If removing potential sources of problems does not help, try moving the system. support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting...

  • Page 72: Power

    Then run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards test group as described in “Running the Dell Diagnostics” found later in this chapter. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 73: Post Beep Codes

    This section lists some basic checks you can do for most monitors. Check the docu- mentation that came with the monitor for fault indications and troubleshooting procedures specific to your monitor. If you purchased the monitor from Dell, you can also find troubleshooting information on Dell’s World Wide Web site (http://support.dell.com).

  • Page 74: Speakers

    Verify that the speakers and/or subwoofer are turned on if they have a power control. Turn up the volume knob on the speakers. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 75: Modem

    Low connection speeds can be caused by line noise. If you have persistent prob- lems, contact your telephone company to check for data noise and imbalanced lines. Refer to “Modem” in Chapter 6 for further troubleshooting information. support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting...

  • Page 76: Drives

    Enter the system setup program as described in Appendix B, “System Setup Pro- gram,” and verify that Type is set to Auto for the appropriate IDE drive option. Run the IDE Devices test group as described in “Running the Dell Diagnostics” found later in this chapter.

  • Page 77: Running The Dell Diagnostics

    Dell's service and support personnel. The Dell Diagnostics provides a series of menus and options from which you choose particular test groups or subtests. You can also control the sequence in which the tests are run.
  • Page 78 MS-DOS prompt. NOTE: Before you read the rest of this section, you may want to start the Dell Diag- nostics so that you can see it on the screen of your monitor.
  • Page 79 Information on the main screen of the diagnostics is presented in the following areas: Two lines at the top of the screen identify the version number of the Dell Diagnostics. On the left side of the screen, the Device Groups area lists the diagnostic test groups in the order they will run if you select All from the Run Tests menu.

  • Page 80: Menu

    Highlighted Group. Similarly, you can test your printer connection through the Paral- lel Ports device group. The online Help in the Dell Diagnostics provides instructions on how to use the pro- gram and explains each menu item, test group, subtest, and test and error result. To enter the Help menu, perform the following steps: Highlight Select Devices to Test in the DIAGNOSTICS MENU.

  • Page 81: Keys

    Keys explains the functions of all the keystrokes that can be used in the Dell Diagnostics. Device Group describes the test group that is presently highlighted in the Device Groups list on the main menu screen. It also provides reasoning for using some tests.
  • Page 82 4-14 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 83: Using Audio Utilities

    To enable the YAMAHA DS-XG Audio Configuration program in Windows 98, perform the following steps: Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click the YAMAHA DS-XG Audio Config icon. The YAMAHA DS-XG Audio Config window, shown in Figure 5-1, appears. support.dell.com Software Solutions...
  • Page 84 The MIC Echo tab provides controls that add an echo effect to the microphone input. The controls are active only while this tab is open. When the tab is closed, the mixer has no echo functionality. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 85 To enable the YAMAHA DS-XG Audio Configuration program in Windows NT , perform the following steps: Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click the YAMAHA DS-XG Audio Config icon. The YAMAHA DS-XG Audio Config window, shown in Figure 5-2, appears. support.dell.com Software Solutions...
  • Page 86 Double-click the yellow speaker icon in the Windows taskbar to display the SB16 Mixer Volume Control window (see Figure 5-3). Increase or decrease the stereo sound by moving the slide switches up or down, respectively. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 87 For Windows 98, the power management features of your Dell system can be set through the Power Management Properties window. For Windows 2000, the power management features can be set through the Power Options Properties window. If you press <Del> when the computer restarts, your computer’s power management features can be set through the system setup program.

  • Page 88: Your System's Drivers

    All of your system’s drivers for Dell-installed devices are operative when you receive the system—no further installation or configuration is needed. However, if you ever need to reinstall any of these drivers, the driver files are provided on the Dell Dimension ResourceCD.
  • Page 89 Start the computer’s operating system. If you have not initially installed the Dell Dimension ResourceCD application pro- gram, proceed to the next step. If you have previously installed the application program, proceed to step 6. Insert the Dell Dimension ResourceCD into the optical drive.
  • Page 90 Click the Start button, point to Settings, and click Control Panel. Double-click the System icon. Click the Hardware tab. Click Device Manager. Click View, then Resources by connection. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 91 Troubleshooting and Maintenance on the Contents tab, and then double-click If you have a hardware conflict. If Dell installed a Microsoft Windows operating system on your computer, under nor- mal circumstances you should never need to reinstall the operating system.
  • Page 92 A series of windows appears to inform you that Windows 98 is setting up hardware, initializing drivers, and detecting hardware and Plug and Play devices. The system may reboot a second time. 5-10 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 93 The Windows 98 Setup window appears and lists which items Windows 98 is setting up. 16. Windows 98 updates the system settings and restarts the system. The Welcome to Windows 98 screen appears. 17 . Reinstall any necessary drivers by using the procedures in this chapter. support.dell.com Software Solutions 5-11...
  • Page 94 5-12 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 95: Inside Your Computer

    Reconnect the cable connectors to the appropriate connectors on the expansion cards. Replace the computer cover and support beam, connect all external cables, and turn on the system. The following subsections provide troubleshooting procedures for some specific types of expansion cards. support.dell.com Checking Inside Your Computer...
  • Page 96 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 97: Resolving Software And Hardware Incompatibilities

    Auto. NOTE: If you have persistent problems with low connection speeds, contact your telephone company to check for data noise and imbalanced lines or your Internet ser- vice provider (ISP) for information about their service. support.dell.com Checking Inside Your Computer...

  • Page 98: Sound Cards

    To troubleshoot a network card, perform the following steps: Run the Network Interfaces test group in the Dell Diagnostics if you have a sup- ported network card (refer to “Running the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4).

  • Page 99: System Messages

    Turn on the computer and monitor. If you hear a beep code or if you see a diagnostic code, refer to Appendix C, “Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages.” support.dell.com Checking Inside Your Computer...

  • Page 100: System Memory

    Remove the interface cable and the DC power connector from the malfunction- ing drive, and inspect them for damage. Reconnect the interface and DC power connectors to the appropriate connectors on the drive, making sure they are firmly seated. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 101: Boot Routine

    Replacing the Computer Cover and Support Beam” in Chapter 2. Remove all expansion cards except the video card as described in “Removing Expansion Cards” in Chapter 2. Make sure the video card is fully seated in its connector (see Figure 6-1). support.dell.com Checking Inside Your Computer...
  • Page 102 Replace the computer cover and support beam; reconnect the system to an elec- trical outlet. Insert the Dell Dimension ResourceCD into the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive. For systems running Windows 98, also insert the Microsoft Windows 98 Boot Disk into the diskette drive.
  • Page 103 4) and reinstall each of the expansion cards you removed in step 3. Repeat steps 6 through 12 after each reinstallation. 15. If the problem returns after you reconnect a drive not obtained from Dell, remove it and contact the manufacturer. Otherwise, refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,”...
  • Page 104 Place the fan shroud over the fan assembly and the guide bracket assembly. Then gently press down the shroud until the two fan shroud tabs snap into the two slots on top of the fan assembly. 6-10 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 105: If Your Computer Gets Wet

    11. Type diags32 and press <Enter>. The DIAGNOSTICS MENU appears. 12. Run the System Board Device test group in the Dell Diagnostics (refer to “Run- ning the Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 4). If the tests do not complete successfully, refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.

  • Page 106: Installing Expansion Cards

    Replace the computer cover and support beam, and reconnect the system to an electrical outlet. Insert the Dell Dimension ResourceCD into the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive. For systems running Windows 98, also insert the Microsoft Windows 98 Boot Disk into the diskette drive.
  • Page 107 Replace the computer cover and support beam, and reconnect the system to an electrical outlet. Insert the Dell Dimension ResourceCD into the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive. For systems running Windows 98, also insert the Microsoft Windows 98 Boot Disk into the diskette drive.
  • Page 108 6-14 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 109 ! " This chapter describes the tools Dell provides to help you when you have a problem with your computer. It also tells you when and how to call Dell for technical or cus- tomer assistance. If you need assistance with a technical problem, perform the following steps: Complete the troubleshooting checks in Chapter 4, “Basic Troubleshooting.”...

  • Page 110: Help Tools

    Dell provides a number of tools to assist you. These tools are described in the follow- ing sections. NOTE: Some of the following tools are not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S. Please call your local Dell representative for information on availability.

  • Page 111: Autotech Service

    “Dell Contact Numbers” found later in this chapter. Dell takes full advantage of fax technology to serve you better. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, you can call the Dell TechFax line toll-free for all kinds of tech- nical information.
  • Page 112 If you need information about additional products available from Dell Computer Corpo- ration, or if you would like to place an order, visit Dell’s World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com/. For the telephone number to call to speak to a sales special- ist, refer to “Dell Contact Numbers”...
  • Page 113 Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (Figure 7-1). If possible, turn on your system before you call Dell for technical assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the computer system itself.
  • Page 114 Name: ______________________________________________________________Date: ______________________ Address: ________________________________________________________Phone number: _________________ Service tag (bar code on the back of the computer): _________________________________________________ Express Service Code: ___________________________________________________________________________ Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician): ___________________________ Operating system and version: ____________________________________________________________________ Peripherals: ____________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________...
  • Page 115 When you need to contact Dell, use the telephone numbers, codes, and electronic addresses provided in Tables 7-1 and 7-2. Table 7-1 provides the various codes required to make long-distance and international calls. Table 7-2 provides local tele- phone numbers, area codes, toll-free numbers, Web site and e-mail addresses, if applicable, for each department or service available in various countries around the world.
  • Page 116 — Macau — Not required Malaysia (Penang) Mexico (Colonia Granada) Netherlands (Amsterdam) New Zealand — Norway (Lysaker) Not required Poland (Warsaw) Singapore (Singapore) Not required South Africa (Johannesburg) 09/091 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 117 Switchboard ....... 01....491 04 0 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/at E-mail: tech_support_germany@dell.com...
  • Page 118 TechFax ........toll free: 1-800-950-1329 7-10 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 119 Switchboard ....... 02....22 83 27 11 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/cz E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com...
  • Page 120 Corporate Sales ........toll free: 800 96 4108 tomer assistance. 7-12 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 121 Switchboard ....... 01....286 0500 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/ie E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com...
  • Page 122 Corporate Sales ........toll free: 1 800 888 213 7-14 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 123 Switchboard ......020....581 8818 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/nl E-mail: tech_nl@dell.com...
  • Page 124 Sales (Penang, Malaysia)....... . 60 4 810-4810 (excluding Austra- lia, Brunei, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thai- land—refer to indi- vidual listings for these countries) 7-16 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 125 Switchboard ....... 91....722 92 00 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/es E-mail: es_support@dell.com...
  • Page 126 AutoFax ..........0870-908-0510 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com/uk E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com 7-18 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 127 Dell Sales ........
  • Page 128 7-20 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 129 Interrupt levels ..... 15 System BIOS chip ....4 Mb (512 KB) NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Specifications...
  • Page 130 Clock cycle ......10 ns (supports 4 clocks only) NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 131 Diskette drive ....34-pin connector Available in integrated audio systems only. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Specifications...
  • Page 132 Weight ......11.3 to 13.6 kg (25.0 to 30.0 lb) NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 133 Storage ..... . . –16 to 10,600 m (–50 to 35,000 ft) At 35°C (95°F), the maximum operating altitude is 914 m (3000 ft). NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Specifications...
  • Page 134 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 135 To set or change user-selectable options—for example, the user password Dell recommends that you print the system setup program screens (by pressing <Print Screen>) or write down the information for future reference. Before you use the system setup program, you need to know the kind of hard-disk drive(s) and diskette drive(s) installed in your computer.
  • Page 136 Reverts all settings to the initial defaults. Saves changes and exits the program. For System Time and System Date, moves the cursor to the next or previous field. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 137: Advanced Screen

    Boot screen — Provides information about which device boots the system Exit screen — Provides selections for saving and loading the configurations and options In addition to these screens, options identified by a right arrow (see Figure B-1 for an example) provide access to submenus. support.dell.com System Setup Program...
  • Page 138 Appears on the screen only if the system detects an all-ECC memory configuration. Leave this option set to ECC (default) for optimum performance. To disable ECC, select Non-ECC. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 139 DIMMs. If set to Disabled, error checking is not performed. System Time Resets the time on the system’s internal clock. System Date Resets the date on the system’s internal calendar. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program...

  • Page 140: Peripheral Configuration Submenu

    Play devices from the operating system or from the sys- tem BIOS. Leave this option set to No so the BIOS handles all Plug and Play operation. NOTE: Be sure this option is set to No before running Dell Diagnostics. Otherwise, some diagnostics may incorrectly fail. Reset...
  • Page 141 Configuration Submenu” found later in this appendix. Resource Displays the Resource Configuration submenu for allocating Configuration IRQs and memory ranges. Refer to “Resource Configuration Submenu” found later in this appendix. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program...
  • Page 142 Base I/O Available I/O addresses are COM1, COM2, COM3, and COM4. Address Interrupt Available interrupts are IRQ3 and IRQ4. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 143 Legacy Set to Disabled (default) if legacy universal serial bus (USB) USB Support support is not desired. Enabled allows support for legacy USB. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program...

  • Page 144: Primary Ide Master Submenu

    “Primary IDE Master Submenu” found next in this appendix. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. B-10 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 145 CD-ROM or tape drive. The format of this submenu is the same as the one described in “Primary IDE Master Submenu” found next in this appendix. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-11...
  • Page 146 Type to Auto. If Type is set to Disabled, PIO is turned off. Ultra DMA Sets the Ultra DMA mode for the drive. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. B-12 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 147 Protects a diskette from being written to when set to Protect Enabled. When this option is set to Disabled (default), the diskette is not protected unless the write-protect tab is in place. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-13...
  • Page 148 Press <Enter>, and then select Y es or No to mark DMI as read events as read. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. B-14 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 149 Select AGP (default) to specify the AGP video card as the primary video adapter. Select PCI to specify a PCI video card as the primary video adapter. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-15...
  • Page 150 IRQ n Reserves the specified IRQ for use by legacy ISA devices. Settings are Available (default) and Reserved. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. B-16 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 151 System Time, and Set User Password. Set this option to View Only to allow only user viewing access. None pre- vents user access to the system setup program. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-17...
  • Page 152 (called a time-out). The time-out period is set with the Inactivity Timer option. When Hard Drive is set to Disabled, hard- disk drives do not switch into low-power mode B-18 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 153 This option selects a VESA power management mode for the monitor during periods of system inactivity. Settings are Disabled, Standby (default), Suspend, and Sleep. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-19...
  • Page 154 When set to Disabled (default), this option allows only the Diagnostic Screen blue Dell logo screen to appear during POST . If set to Enabled, this option allows the POST diagnostics test results to be displayed on the screen during POST .
  • Page 155 Drive Submenu” found next in this appendix. Removable Displays a list of removable devices. Refer to “Removable Devices Devices Submenu” found later in this appendix. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-21...
  • Page 156 Bootable Add-In Same as preceding item. Card NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. B-22 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 157 (+) or minus (–) key to move the item up or down the list. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-23...
  • Page 158 Discards any changes you have made and reverts all options to their last saved settings, but does not exit the system setup program. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. B-24 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 159 10. Assign a new user and/or setup password on the Security screen of the system setup program. For information on assigning a new user and/or setup password, refer to Table B-11. support.dell.com System Setup Program B-25...
  • Page 160 The Intel Pentium III microprocessor includes a processor serial number feature designed to provide additional user security and manageability benefits. By default, this feature is disabled on Dell systems to protect your privacy. However, it can be enabled through the Processor Serial Number option in the system setup program.
  • Page 161 If a malfunction is detected and the computer fails to boot, the indicators display a code that identifies the problem. In this situation, write down the diagnostic code dis- played and look it up in Table C-1. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages...

  • Page 162: Reseating The Microprocessor

    Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining techni- cal assistance. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 163 If the problem persists, refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining techni- cal assistance. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages...

  • Page 164: Reseating Dimms

    USB port. If the problem per- has failed initialization. sists, refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 165 Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. System has started and No action is necessary. turned over control to the operating system. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages...
  • Page 166 RAM failure on data bits xxx Reseat the DIMMs as described of high byte on memory bus in “Reseating DIMMs” in Chapter 6. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 167 “Drives” in Chapter 6. The system is starting No action is necessary. Entering the system setup Setup program. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages...
  • Page 168 If the problem persists, refer to Chapter 7 , “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining tech- nical assistance. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 169: Replacing The System Battery

    A or drive system not drive A or drive C. C is properly identified. found NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages...
  • Page 170 (refer to Table 2-2), and start the system to return all set- tings to their defaults. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. C-10 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 171 Replace and run SETUP The system BIOS has No action is necessary. System BIOS been copied to shadow shadowed RAM. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. support.dell.com Diagnostic Codes, Beep Codes, and System Messages C-11...
  • Page 172 The video BIOS has No action is necessary. Video BIOS been successfully cop- shadowed ied to shadow RAM. NOTE: The Glossary in the system Help defines abbreviations and acronyms. C-12 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 173: Guarantee

    Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, Stock No. 004-000-00450-7 or on the World Wide Web at http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Compliance/WWW/ tvibook.html. Dell computer systems are designed, tested, and classified for their intended electro- magnetic environment. These electromagnetic environment classifications generally refer to the following harmonized definitions: Class A is typically for business or industrial environments.
  • Page 174 Most Dell computer systems are classified for Class B environments. To determine the electromagnetic classification for your system or device, refer to the following sections specific for each regulatory agency. Each section provides country-specific EMC/EMI or product safety information.
  • Page 175 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help. The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this docu- ment in compliance with FCC regulations: Model number: MMS Company name: Dell Computer Corporation EMC Engineering Department One Dell Way Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA 512-338-4400 support.dell.com...
  • Page 176 This Dell device is classified for use in a typical Class B domestic environment. A “Declaration of Conformity” in accordance with the preceding directives and stan- dards has been made and is on file at Dell Products Europe BV, Limerick, Ireland. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 177 Your computer system uses a lithium-ion battery. The lithium-ion battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it. However, should you need to replace it, refer to the section about replacing the battery in your Dell sys- tem documentation for instructions.
  • Page 178 Interference (VCCI) for information technology equipment. If this equipment is used near a radio or television receiver in a domestic environment, it may cause radio inter- ference. Install and use the equipment according to the instruction manual. Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 179 Mexican standards (NOM): Exporter: Dell Computer Corporation One Dell Way Round Rock, TX 78682 Importer: Dell Computer de México, S.A. de C.V. Rio Lerma No. 302 - 4° Piso Col. Cuauhtemoc 16500 México, D.F . Ship to: Dell Computer de México,...
  • Page 180 México S. de R.I. Avenida Soles No. 55 Col. Peñon de los Baños 15520 México, D.F . Tensión alimentación: 115/230 VAC Frecuencia: 60/50 Hz Consumo de corriente: 6.0/3.0 A Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...
  • Page 181 This warranty does not cover any items that are in one or more of the following cate- gories: software; external devices (except as specifically noted); accessories or parts added to a Dell system after the system is shipped from Dell; accessories or parts added to a Dell system through Dell’s system integration department; accessories or parts that are not installed in the Dell factory;...
  • Page 182 The warranty term for a replacement part is the remainder of the limited warranty term. You will pay Dell for replacement parts if the replaced part is not returned to Dell. The process for returning replaced parts, and your obligation to pay for replacement parts if you do not return the replaced parts to Dell, will be in accordance with Dell’s...

  • Page 183: Exclusions

    If Dell elects to exchange a system or component, the exchange will be made in accordance with Dell’s Exchange Policy in effect on the date of the exchange. In any...
  • Page 184 The warranty term for a replacement part is the remainder of the limited warranty term. You will pay Dell for replacement parts if the replaced part is not returned to Dell. The process for returning replaced parts, and your obligation to pay for replacement parts if you do not return the replaced parts to Dell, will be in accordance with Dell’s...
  • Page 185 You accept full responsibility for your software and data. Dell is not required to advise or remind you of appropriate backup and other procedures. DELL MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS BEYOND THOSE STATED IN THIS WARRANTY STATEMENT . DELL DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRAN-...
  • Page 186 Guarantee will be the end user’s sole and exclusive remedy against Dell or any of its affiliates, and neither Dell nor any of its affiliates shall be liable for loss of profit or con- tracts, or any other indirect or consequential loss arising from negligence, breach of contract, or howsoever.
  • Page 187 If you are an end-user customer who bought new products directly from a Dell com- pany, you may return them to Dell within 30 days of the date of invoice for a refund or credit of the product purchase price. If you are an end-user customer who bought...
  • Page 188 Dell, the whole system must be returned, along with any media and documentation that may have been included in the original shipment.

  • Page 189: Backup Devices

    DC power integrated drive interface jacks SCSI cables 3-18 YAMAHA DS-XG Audio Configuration cache memory program calling Dell audio driver card-edge connector audio utilities cautions AutoTech service CD-ROM drives audio cable connector troubleshooting chassis. See computer backup devices cleaning basic input/output system.
  • Page 190 5.25-inch, installing See also diskette drives; hard-disk drives; SCSI devices; tape drives bays cables connecting to power DC power cables drive cage about formatting 3-17 3-21 location Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 191: Techfax Service

    Exit screen, system setup program B-24 AutoTech service expansion cards Internet about 2-10 TechConnect BBS connectors 2-11 TechFax service installing 2-12 host adapter card removing 2-15 SCSI 3-17 troubleshooting exterior cleaning of system installing drives expansion cards 2-12 location memory 2-16 support.dell.com Index...

  • Page 192: Dell Diagnostics Main Screen

    Dell Diagnostics 4-12 notices system setup program NVRAM clearing B-26 line conditioners line-in jack operating systems supported line-out jack logical formatting 3-17 3-21 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 193: Power Protection Devices

    SCSI input connectors sockets location battery power-on self-test. See POST DIMM problems software diagnosing audio utilities with your order drivers for configuring system product information included with system software features sound cards troubleshooting specifications random-access memory. See RAM support.dell.com Index...

  • Page 194: Diskette Options Submenu

    Removable Devices submenu B-23 system memory Resource Configuration submenu video cards B-16 where to start Security screen B-17 typographical conventions system configuration information using Video Configuration submenu B-15 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

  • Page 195: Uninterruptible Power Supply

    Windows 98 USB ports power management features reinstalling resolving software and hardware incompatibilities World Wide Web help tools virus-scanning programs temporarily disabling wrist grounding strap YAMAHA DS-XG Audio Configuration program support.dell.com Index...
  • Page 196 Dell Dimension XPS Txxx and Txxxr Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide...

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