Dell Technology Guide
Page 3
Contents 1 Finding Information 23 Start Button 23 Microsoft Windows Help and Support 24 Windows Vista 25 Windows® XP 25 Control Panel 26 Information About Installed Hardware 26 Device Manager 26 Hardware Devices Installed on Your Computer 27 Programs Installed on Your Computer 28 Wireless Networking 28 Dell Support Website 29 Technical Support 29 Customer Service 30 Warranty Information 30 Dell Forums 31 Contact Us 31 BIOS (System Setup Program) Settings 31 2 Microsoft Windows Desktop 33 Overview 33 Taskbar 34 Contents 3
Contents 1 Finding Information 23 Start Button 23 Microsoft Windows Help and Support 24 Windows Vista 25 Windows® XP 25 Control Panel 26 Information About Installed Hardware 26 Device Manager 26 Hardware Devices Installed on Your Computer 27 Programs Installed on Your Computer 28 Wireless Networking 28 Dell Support Website 29 Technical Support 29 Customer Service 30 Warranty Information 30 Dell Forums 31 Contact Us 31 BIOS (System Setup Program) Settings 31 2 Microsoft Windows Desktop 33 Overview 33 Taskbar 34 Contents 3
Dell Technology Guide
Page 4
...35 Adding Icons in the Notification Area 35 Desktop Icons and Shortcuts 36 Deleting an Icon From the Desktop 36 Creating and Deleting Program Shortcuts on the Desktop 37 Shortcut Menus 38 Changing the Desktop Appearance 39 Windows Vista 39 Windows® XP 40 Setting up a Screen Saver 41 ...Windows Vista 41 Windows XP 41 Start Button (Menu 42 Overview ...
...35 Adding Icons in the Notification Area 35 Desktop Icons and Shortcuts 36 Deleting an Icon From the Desktop 36 Creating and Deleting Program Shortcuts on the Desktop 37 Shortcut Menus 38 Changing the Desktop Appearance 39 Windows Vista 39 Windows® XP 40 Setting up a Screen Saver 41 ...Windows Vista 41 Windows XP 41 Start Button (Menu 42 Overview ...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 19
... 266 Enabling System Restore 267 Using Dell™ PC Restore and Dell Factory Image Restore 267 Windows Vista: Dell Factory Image Restore . . . . 268 Using the Operating System Media 269 Before you Begin 269 Reinstalling Windows XP or Windows Vista . . . . 269 20 Troubleshooting 271 Troubleshooting Tools 272 Power Lights for Desktop Computers 273 Diagnostic Lights for...
... 266 Enabling System Restore 267 Using Dell™ PC Restore and Dell Factory Image Restore 267 Windows Vista: Dell Factory Image Restore . . . . 268 Using the Operating System Media 269 Before you Begin 269 Reinstalling Windows XP or Windows Vista . . . . 269 20 Troubleshooting 271 Troubleshooting Tools 272 Power Lights for Desktop Computers 273 Diagnostic Lights for...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 23
... on the version of Windows, but it is consistently located on your computer. Finding Information Start Button From the Microsoft® Windows® operating system desktop, you can click the Start button to access resources, programs, and specialized tools for managing the way Windows appears and functions on the left side... Windows Help and Support • Control Panel • Information About Installed Hardware • Device Manager • Programs Installed on Your Computer • Wireless Networking • Dell Support Website Finding Information 23
... on the version of Windows, but it is consistently located on your computer. Finding Information Start Button From the Microsoft® Windows® operating system desktop, you can click the Start button to access resources, programs, and specialized tools for managing the way Windows appears and functions on the left side... Windows Help and Support • Control Panel • Information About Installed Hardware • Device Manager • Programs Installed on Your Computer • Wireless Networking • Dell Support Website Finding Information 23
Dell Technology Guide
Page 33
Microsoft Windows Desktop desktop shortcut icons Start button taskbar notification area Overview The Microsoft® Windows® desktop is usually located at the bottom of the screen. The components of the desktop include a background, icons, shortcuts, and a taskbar that is the display screen area that appears after the Windows operating system starts up. Microsoft Windows Desktop 33
Microsoft Windows Desktop desktop shortcut icons Start button taskbar notification area Overview The Microsoft® Windows® desktop is usually located at the bottom of the screen. The components of the desktop include a background, icons, shortcuts, and a taskbar that is the display screen area that appears after the Windows operating system starts up. Microsoft Windows Desktop 33
Dell Technology Guide
Page 34
...: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in your taskbar, the Start button moves or resizes with programs. 34 Microsoft Windows Desktop The taskbar provides quick access to frequently-used programs, files, or utilities on the desktop, or to open application programs. notification... area Includes a clock and icons associated with it . The basic sections of the desktop, although you move or resize your computer. Taskbar Start button Quick Launch toolbar taskbar button notification area Overview ...
...: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in your taskbar, the Start button moves or resizes with programs. 34 Microsoft Windows Desktop The taskbar provides quick access to frequently-used programs, files, or utilities on the desktop, or to open application programs. notification... area Includes a clock and icons associated with it . The basic sections of the desktop, although you move or resize your computer. Taskbar Start button Quick Launch toolbar taskbar button notification area Overview ...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 35
...For computers running Windows Vista®, select the Notification Area tab. Click the required icon to temporarily display the hidden icons. Microsoft Windows Desktop 35 The screen defaults to open area of the taskbar. 2 Click Properties.The Taskbar and Start menu Properties window appears. 3 Customize... the taskbar by choosing the icons it again. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in the Notification Area Customize the taskbar by checking the desired boxes on top of the taskbar. 2 Click...
...For computers running Windows Vista®, select the Notification Area tab. Click the required icon to temporarily display the hidden icons. Microsoft Windows Desktop 35 The screen defaults to open area of the taskbar. 2 Click Properties.The Taskbar and Start menu Properties window appears. 3 Customize... the taskbar by choosing the icons it again. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in the Notification Area Customize the taskbar by checking the desired boxes on top of the taskbar. 2 Click...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 36
... and Shortcuts icon shortcut Icons displayed on the desktop. Some icons are shortcuts and other icons are direct links. • Icons for program files, documents, or folders do not include an arrow graphic. For computers running Windows® XP, continue with the next step. 4 Click the ...Customize button in the icon, shortcuts are links that provide quick access to programs, documents, and folders. Deleting an Icon From the Desktop 1 Right-click the icon, and click Delete. 2 ...
... and Shortcuts icon shortcut Icons displayed on the desktop. Some icons are shortcuts and other icons are direct links. • Icons for program files, documents, or folders do not include an arrow graphic. For computers running Windows® XP, continue with the next step. 4 Click the ...Customize button in the icon, shortcuts are links that provide quick access to programs, documents, and folders. Deleting an Icon From the Desktop 1 Right-click the icon, and click Delete. 2 ...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 37
...and Deleting Program Shortcuts on the item, highlight Send to a program, file, or folder by using: Windows Explorer or Desktop. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in Windows Help and Support: click Start or → Help and Support. Navigate to the... the shortcut to link to the file. Using Windows Explorer: 1 Right-click the Start button, select Explore. Using the desktop: 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop, highlight New, then click Shortcut. 2 In the Create Shortcut window, click Browse and navigate to the location of the ...
...and Deleting Program Shortcuts on the item, highlight Send to a program, file, or folder by using: Windows Explorer or Desktop. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in Windows Help and Support: click Start or → Help and Support. Navigate to the... the shortcut to link to the file. Using Windows Explorer: 1 Right-click the Start button, select Explore. Using the desktop: 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop, highlight New, then click Shortcut. 2 In the Create Shortcut window, click Browse and navigate to the location of the ...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 38
Shortcut Menus Create Shortcut Delete Rename Properties Shortcut menus are available for an item. These menus provide quick access to the most common commands for many components of the Windows desktop, including files and folders. To access the shortcut menus, position the cursor over the item and rightclick (click the right mouse button or the right touch-pad button). 38 Microsoft Windows Desktop
Shortcut Menus Create Shortcut Delete Rename Properties Shortcut menus are available for an item. These menus provide quick access to the most common commands for many components of the Windows desktop, including files and folders. To access the shortcut menus, position the cursor over the item and rightclick (click the right mouse button or the right touch-pad button). 38 Microsoft Windows Desktop
Dell Technology Guide
Page 39
...Display Properties window. From the Start menu: Microsoft Windows Desktop 39 Changing the Desktop Appearance Start button Control Panel Display Properties window You can manage your desktop by changing various components. Most of the desktop. 2 Click Personalize, and the Personalize appearance and sounds...window appears. 3 Review the available options and follow the instructions provided. You can personalize the appearance of your computer's desktop theme, resolution, screen saver, icon size and appearance, and monitor settings from the Display Properties Menu screen. Use the...
...Display Properties window. From the Start menu: Microsoft Windows Desktop 39 Changing the Desktop Appearance Start button Control Panel Display Properties window You can manage your desktop by changing various components. Most of the desktop. 2 Click Personalize, and the Personalize appearance and sounds...window appears. 3 Review the available options and follow the instructions provided. You can personalize the appearance of your computer's desktop theme, resolution, screen saver, icon size and appearance, and monitor settings from the Display Properties Menu screen. Use the...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 40
Windows® XP From the desktop: 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Properties. 3 Click Display. The Display Properties window appears. 4 Review the available options and follow the instructions provided. 1 Click Start → Control ... and follow the instructions provided. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in Windows Help and Support: click Start or → Help and Support. 40 Microsoft Windows Desktop The Personalize appearance and sounds window appears. 3 Review the available options and follow the...
Windows® XP From the desktop: 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Properties. 3 Click Display. The Display Properties window appears. 4 Review the available options and follow the instructions provided. 1 Click Start → Control ... and follow the instructions provided. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in Windows Help and Support: click Start or → Help and Support. 40 Microsoft Windows Desktop The Personalize appearance and sounds window appears. 3 Review the available options and follow the...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 41
Windows Vista 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Personalize. Windows XP 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Properties. Microsoft Windows Desktop 41 NOTE: After the screen saver activates, you may need to log-in again to access your computer is an animated graphic that appears after ...
Windows Vista 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Personalize. Windows XP 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Properties. Microsoft Windows Desktop 41 NOTE: After the screen saver activates, you may need to log-in again to access your computer is an animated graphic that appears after ...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 42
Start Button (Menu) Overview The Start button opens the Start menu, which provides access to access your computer. NOTE: After the screen saver activates, you may need to log-in to : • Control Panel • Programs • Files • Computer settings • Tools that monitor your computer to remain inactive before the screen saver appears. 5 Click OK. 4 Select the length of time for your computer's performance • Windows Help and Support 42 Microsoft Windows Desktop
Start Button (Menu) Overview The Start button opens the Start menu, which provides access to access your computer. NOTE: After the screen saver activates, you may need to log-in to : • Control Panel • Programs • Files • Computer settings • Tools that monitor your computer to remain inactive before the screen saver appears. 5 Click OK. 4 Select the length of time for your computer's performance • Windows Help and Support 42 Microsoft Windows Desktop
Dell Technology Guide
Page 43
.... 2 Select Properties. See "Shutting Down Your Computer" on the software installed in Windows Help and Support: click Start or → Help and Support. Microsoft Windows Desktop 43 HINT: You can use the Start menu to the Start menu by selecting the desired option on page 23. The programs available on the... Start menu depend on page 99. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Start Button" on the Start menu tab. You can add shortcuts to restart or shut down your computer.
.... 2 Select Properties. See "Shutting Down Your Computer" on the software installed in Windows Help and Support: click Start or → Help and Support. Microsoft Windows Desktop 43 HINT: You can use the Start menu to the Start menu by selecting the desired option on page 23. The programs available on the... Start menu depend on page 99. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Start Button" on the Start menu tab. You can add shortcuts to restart or shut down your computer.
Dell Technology Guide
Page 44
... and other devices • Perform maintenance to help you can customize appears in the Control Panel screen. Hold your desktop • Set up text box that explains its function. 44 Microsoft Windows Desktop Through the Control Panel, you can: • Add and monitor hardware • Add or remove programs • Change hardware...
... and other devices • Perform maintenance to help you can customize appears in the Control Panel screen. Hold your desktop • Set up text box that explains its function. 44 Microsoft Windows Desktop Through the Control Panel, you can: • Add and monitor hardware • Add or remove programs • Change hardware...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 45
...up text box. See "Maintenance Tasks (Enhance Performance and Ensure Security)" on your hard drive to make changes to enhance performance. Windows XP 1 Click Start →Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance. 2 Select one of the available options in Windows Help and Support: ...of the options to manage and improve your computer. Accessing and Using the Control Panel FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in the Task area to monitor your computer. Customizing Your Computer Settings 1 Click Start or → Control ...
...up text box. See "Maintenance Tasks (Enhance Performance and Ensure Security)" on your hard drive to make changes to enhance performance. Windows XP 1 Click Start →Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance. 2 Select one of the available options in Windows Help and Support: ...of the options to manage and improve your computer. Accessing and Using the Control Panel FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about the Windows desktop, see "Windows Basics" in the Task area to monitor your computer. Customizing Your Computer Settings 1 Click Start or → Control ...
Dell Technology Guide
Page 46
Then click Device Manager. 46 Microsoft Windows Desktop OR Right-click My Computer and select Properties. Windows XP Click Start→ Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance→ Administrative Tools→ Computer Management. HINT: Typically, to access the Device Manager: Windows Vista Click Start→ Control Panel→ System and Maintenance→ Administrative Tools→ Computer Management.
Then click Device Manager. 46 Microsoft Windows Desktop OR Right-click My Computer and select Properties. Windows XP Click Start→ Control Panel→ Performance and Maintenance→ Administrative Tools→ Computer Management. HINT: Typically, to access the Device Manager: Windows Vista Click Start→ Control Panel→ System and Maintenance→ Administrative Tools→ Computer Management.
Dell Technology Guide
Page 47
... the screen with a soft cloth dampened with water. These solutions can damage the monitor's anti-glare coating. To clean the display screen for a desktop computer, wipe the screen with a soft cloth dampened with either water or an LCD cleaner. CAUTION: Do not wipe the computer's display screen with...your computer. Monitors and Displays 47 Do not spray cleaners directly onto the screen. Also see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance. For additional safety best practices information, see the safety information that shipped with your computer.
... the screen with a soft cloth dampened with water. These solutions can damage the monitor's anti-glare coating. To clean the display screen for a desktop computer, wipe the screen with a soft cloth dampened with either water or an LCD cleaner. CAUTION: Do not wipe the computer's display screen with...your computer. Monitors and Displays 47 Do not spray cleaners directly onto the screen. Also see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance. For additional safety best practices information, see the safety information that shipped with your computer.
Dell Technology Guide
Page 49
Windows® XP 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Properties. The Display Properties window appears. 3 Select the Setting tab. The Personalize appearance and sounds window appears. 3 Click Display Settings. 4 In the Display Settings ... bar to check if the selected resolution is ok, if not repeat step 4. 6 Click OK. Windows Vista® 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Personalize. Monitors and Displays 49
Windows® XP 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Properties. The Display Properties window appears. 3 Select the Setting tab. The Personalize appearance and sounds window appears. 3 Click Display Settings. 4 In the Display Settings ... bar to check if the selected resolution is ok, if not repeat step 4. 6 Click OK. Windows Vista® 1 Right-click an open area of the desktop. 2 Click Personalize. Monitors and Displays 49