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Dell XPS M1210 User Manual

Dell XPS M1210
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Troubleshooting 91
If you have other telephone devices sharing the line, such as an answering machine, fax machine, surge
protector, or line splitter, then bypass them and connect the modem directly to the telephone wall jack.
If you are using a line that is 3 m (10 ft) or more in length, try a shorter one.
RUN THE MODEM HELPER DIAGNOSTICS
Click the
Start
button, point to
Programs
and then click
Modem
Helper
. Follow the instructions on the screen to identify and resolve modem problems. (Modem Helper is
not available on certain computers.)
VERIFY THAT THE MODEM IS COMMUNICATING WITH WINDOWS
1
Click the
Start
button and click
Control Panel
.
2
Click
Printers and Other Hardware
.
3
Click
Phone and Modem Options
.
4
Click the
Modems
tab.
5
Click the COM port for your modem.
6
Click
Properties
, click the
Diagnostics
tab, and then click
Query Modem
to verify that the modem is
communicating with Windows.
If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
ENSURE THAT YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET
Ensure that you have subscribed to an Internet
provider. With the Outlook Express e-mail program open, click
File
. If
Work Offline
has a checkmark next
to it, click the checkmark to remove it and connect to the Internet. For help, contact your Internet service
provider.
SCAN THE COMPUTER FOR SPYWARE
If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently
receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might
be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program
may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to
support.dell.com
and search for the keyword
spyware
.
Error Messages
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running
when the message appeared.
AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE The touch pad, track stick, or external mouse may be faulty. For an external
mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the Pointing Device option in the system setup program (see
"Using the System Setup Program" on page 171). If the problem persists, contact Dell. See "Contacting
Dell" on page 141.
BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put spaces in the
proper place, and used the correct pathname.

Table of Contents

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Dell XPS M1210 Specifications

General IconGeneral
RAMUp to 4GB DDR2
Resolution1280x800
ChipsetIntel 945GM
Hard Drive InterfaceSATA
ProcessorIntel Core 2 Duo
Display12.1-inch WXGA
GraphicsIntel GMA 950
Optical DriveDVD+/-RW
Operating SystemWindows XP
Battery LifeUp to 4 hours
Wireless802.11a/b/g
StorageUp to 160GB HDD

Summary

About Your Computer

Determining Your Computer’s Configuration

Learn how to identify your computer's video controller configuration.

Front View

Left Side View

Right Side View

Back View

Bottom View

Setting Up Your Computer

Connecting to the Internet

Steps to establish an Internet connection using your ISP and common connection types.

Transferring Information to a New Computer

Use the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to move data between computers.

Setting Up a Printer

Guidance on connecting and setting up a printer, including cable types.

Connecting a USB Printer

Step-by-step instructions for connecting a USB printer to your computer.

Power Protection Devices

Information on surge protectors, line conditioners, and UPS for power protection.

Using the Display

Adjusting Brightness

Learn how to adjust screen brightness for better viewing and power conservation.

Switching the Video Image

How to switch display output between the internal screen and external devices.

Setting Display Resolution

Configure screen resolution for optimal program display and clarity.

Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad

Numeric Keypad

Explanation of the function and activation of the numeric keypad.

Key Combinations

Overview of essential keyboard shortcuts for system functions and applications.

Touch Pad

Instructions on using the touch pad for cursor control and interaction.

Using a Battery

Battery Performance

Understanding battery life, operating time, and factors affecting performance.

Checking the Battery Charge

Methods to check battery charge status and health using built-in indicators.

Conserving Battery Power

Tips and methods to maximize battery operating time and preserve battery health.

Power Management Modes

Explanation of Standby and Hibernate modes for power saving.

Charging the Battery

Information on charging the battery using the AC adapter and temperature considerations.

Replacing the Battery

Instructions on how to replace the main battery.

Storing a Battery

Guidelines for storing a battery for extended periods to maintain its health.

Using the Optional Camera

Accessing the Camera’s Help File

How to access the integrated camera's software help documentation.

Manually Adjusting the Camera Settings

Steps to adjust camera settings like contrast, brightness, and audio volume.

Creating a Picture or a Video

Instructions for taking photos and recording videos using the camera.

Using Multimedia

Playing a CD or DVD

How to insert and play CDs or DVDs in the optical drive.

Adjusting the Volume

Learn to control system volume using software or media control buttons.

Adjusting the Picture

How to adjust display settings to resolve DVD playback issues.

Copying CDs and DVDs

Instructions for copying CDs and DVDs using included software.

Using Blank CDs and DVDs

Information on different types of recordable media for CDs and DVDs.

Helpful Tips

Practical advice for using CD/DVD drives and media effectively.

Using Dell Media Experience and Dell MediaDirect™

Guide to using Dell's multimedia software for media playback.

Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device

How to connect your computer to a TV or audio system using various cables.

Sound Modes

Explains stereo and 5.1 surround sound modes and setup.

Using Cards

ExpressCards

Introduction to ExpressCards for expanding computer functionality.

ExpressCard Blanks

Information about protective blanks for the ExpressCard slot.

Installing an ExpressCard

Step-by-step guide for installing an ExpressCard into the computer.

Removing an ExpressCard or Blank

Procedures for safely removing ExpressCards or slot blanks.

Media Memory Cards

Overview of the 5-in-1 media card reader and supported card types.

Installing a Media Memory Card

How to insert and install various types of memory cards.

Removing a Media Memory Card

Steps for safely removing memory cards from the reader.

Using Networks

Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband Modem

Instructions for connecting your computer to a network via cable.

Network Setup Wizard

Using the wizard to set up network sharing and Internet connections.

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

Explanation of WLAN technology and requirements for setup.

Connecting a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem

Steps for connecting your computer to a wireless network and modem.

Connecting to a WLAN

General procedures for establishing a wireless network connection.

Monitoring the Status of the Wireless Network Card Through Dell™ QuickSet

Using Dell QuickSet to monitor wireless device status and activity.

Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network)

Information on high-speed cellular data networks and their setup.

Checking Your Dell Mobile Broadband Card

How to verify the presence and type of your mobile broadband card.

Connecting to a Mobile Broadband Network

Steps to connect to the Internet using a mobile broadband connection.

Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Card

Instructions for managing the mobile broadband card's connectivity.

Dell™ Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator

Using the Wi-Fi Catcher software to scan for wireless networks.

Microsoft® Windows® Firewall

Understanding the role of Windows Firewall for network security.

Securing Your Computer

Security Cable Lock

How to use a security cable lock to deter theft.

Passwords

Guidelines for creating and managing secure passwords for your computer.

Computer Tracking Software

Information on optional software for locating a lost or stolen computer.

If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen

Steps to take if your computer is lost or stolen, including reporting procedures.

Troubleshooting

Dell Diagnostics

Procedures for running diagnostic tests to identify hardware issues.

Dell Support Utility

Using the Dell Support Utility for self-support and software updates.

Drive Problems

Solutions for issues related to CD, DVD, and hard drives.

Hard drive problems

Guidance on diagnosing and resolving hard drive related issues.

E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems

Steps to troubleshoot connectivity and communication issues.

Error Messages

Explanations and solutions for common error messages.

ExpressCard Problems

Troubleshooting steps for issues with ExpressCards.

IEEE 1394 Device Problems

Solutions for problems with IEEE 1394 devices.

Keyboard Problems

Troubleshooting steps for external and internal keyboard issues.

Lockups and Software Problems

How to resolve system freezes, program crashes, and software conflicts.

Dell MediaDirect™ problems

Troubleshooting common issues encountered with Dell MediaDirect.

Memory Problems

Steps to diagnose and resolve issues related to computer memory.

Network Problems

Solutions for common network connectivity and performance issues.

Power Problems

Troubleshooting steps for issues related to battery and AC adapter.

Printer Problems

Guidance on resolving common printer connection and operational issues.

Scanner Problems

Steps to troubleshoot scanner recognition and connection problems.

Sound and Speaker Problems

Solutions for issues with audio output from integrated or external speakers.

Touch Pad or Mouse Problems

Troubleshooting steps for issues with the touch pad and external mouse.

Video and Display Problems

Solutions for issues related to the computer display and video output.

Drivers

Information on what drivers are and how to identify and manage them.

Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities

Procedures for reinstalling device drivers and system utilities.

Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities

Methods to resolve conflicts between software and hardware components.

Restoring Your Operating System

Options for restoring the OS, including System Restore and PC Restore.

Adding and Replacing Parts

Before You Begin

Important preliminary steps and safety precautions before servicing the computer.

Recommended Tools

List of tools required for performing hardware installations or removals.

Turning Off Your Computer

Safe procedures for shutting down the computer and attached devices.

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Safety guidelines to follow before opening the computer casing.

Optical Drive

Instructions for removing and replacing the computer's optical drive.

Hard Drive

Steps for removing and replacing the computer's hard drive.

Memory

Instructions for installing or replacing memory modules to increase RAM.

Keyboard

Steps for removing and replacing the computer's keyboard.

WLAN Card

Instructions for installing or replacing the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) card.

Mobile Broadband Card

Guide for installing or replacing the Mobile Broadband (WWAN) card.

Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Card

Instructions for inserting or removing the SIM card.

Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology

Steps for installing or replacing the internal Bluetooth wireless card.

Dell™ QuickSet

Traveling With Your Computer

Identifying Your Computer

Tips for identifying your computer for security and contact purposes.

Packing the Computer

Recommendations for safely packing your computer for travel.

Travel Tips

General advice for traveling with your computer, including power and customs.

Traveling by Air

Specific guidelines for traveling with your computer on airplanes.

Contacting Dell

Specifications

Processor

Details on processor type, cache, and bus frequency.

System Information

Technical data on the system chip set, memory, and buses.

ExpressCard

Specifications for the ExpressCard controller, connector, and supported cards.

Appendix

Using the System Setup Program

How to access and use the computer's system setup utility.

Viewing the System Setup Screen

Guide to navigating and understanding the system setup interface.

System Setup Screen

Overview of the layout and information presented in the system setup screens.

Commonly Used Options

Explanation of frequently accessed settings within the system setup program.

Changing the Boot Sequence

How to configure the order in which the computer checks for bootable devices.

Performing a One-Time Boot

Setting a temporary boot sequence without altering permanent setup options.

Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Display

Instructions for safely cleaning the computer's exterior, keyboard, and display.

Touch Pad

Steps for cleaning the touch pad surface and surrounding palm rest.

Floppy Drive

Guidance on cleaning the floppy drive using specialized kits.

CDs and DVDs

Methods for cleaning CDs and DVDs to improve playback quality.

Camera

Instructions for cleaning the computer's integrated camera lens.

Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only)

Definition of "Dell-Installed" Software and Peripherals

Clarifies what software and peripherals are considered Dell-installed.

Definition of "Third-Party" Software and Peripherals

Defines third-party software and peripherals and Dell's support role.

FCC Notice (U.S. Only)

Important FCC compliance information for the device.

Glossary

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