Dell Vostro 270

Owner’s Manual

Regulatory Model: D11M

Regulatory Type: D11M002
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.
WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

© 2012 Dell Inc.

Trademarks used in this text: Dell™, the DELL logo, Dell Precision™, Precision ON™,ExpressCharge™, Latitude™, Latitude ON™,
OptiPlex™, Vostro™, and Wi-Fi Catcher™ are trademarks of Dell Inc. Intel®, Pentium®, Xeon®, Core™, Atom™, Centrino®, and Celeron®
are registered trademarks or trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. AMD® is a registered trademark and
AMD Opteron™, AMD Phenom™, AMD Sempron™, AMD Athlon™, ATI Radeon™, and ATI FirePro™ are trademarks of Advanced Micro
Devices, Inc. Microsoft®, Windows®, MS-DOS®, Windows Vista®, the Windows Vista start button, and Office Outlook® are either
trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Blu-ray Disc™ is a trademark
owned by the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) and licensed for use on discs and players. The Bluetooth® word mark is a registered
trademark and owned by the Bluetooth® SIG, Inc. and any use of such mark by Dell Inc. is under license. Wi-Fi® is a registered
trademark of Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance, Inc.

2012 — 9

Rev. A00
Contents

Notes, Cautions, and Warnings...................................................................................................2

1 Working on Your Computer.......................................................................................................5

Before Working Inside Your Computer.....................................................................................................................5
Turning Off Your Computer.......................................................................................................................................6
After Working Inside Your Computer........................................................................................................................6

2 Removing and Installing Components.....................................................................................7

Recommended Tools................................................................................................................................................7
Removing the Cover..................................................................................................................................................7
Installing the Cover...................................................................................................................................................8
Removing the Front Bezel.........................................................................................................................................8
Installing the Front Bezel..........................................................................................................................................9
Removing the Expansion Card..................................................................................................................................9
Installing the Expansion Card.................................................................................................................................10
Removing the System Fan.......................................................................................................................................10
Installing the System Fan........................................................................................................................................11
Removing the Memory............................................................................................................................................12
Installing the Memory.............................................................................................................................................12
Removing the Optical Drive....................................................................................................................................12
Installing the Optical Drive.....................................................................................................................................13
Removing the Hard Drive........................................................................................................................................14
Installing the Hard Drive.........................................................................................................................................15
Removing the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Card...................................................................................15
Installing the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Card....................................................................................15
Removing the Card Reader.....................................................................................................................................16
Installing the Card Reader......................................................................................................................................17
Removing the Power Supply Unit (PSU).................................................................................................................17
Installing the Power Supply Unit (PSU)..................................................................................................................18
Removing the Power Switch...................................................................................................................................18
Installing the Power Switch....................................................................................................................................19
Removing the I/O Panel..........................................................................................................................................19
Installing the I/O Panel............................................................................................................................................21
Removing the Processor.........................................................................................................................................21
Installing the Processor..........................................................................................................................................23
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery..............................................................................................................................23
Installing the Coin-Cell Battery...............................................................................................................................24
 Removing the System Board...................................................................................................................................24
System Board Layout..............................................................................................................................................25
Installing the System Board....................................................................................................................................26

3 System Setup.............................................................................................................................29
Boot Sequence.......................................................................................................................................................29
Navigation Keys......................................................................................................................................................29
System Setup Overview..........................................................................................................................................30
Enter System Setup................................................................................................................................................30
Jumper Settings......................................................................................................................................................30
System Setup Screens............................................................................................................................................31
System Setup Options.............................................................................................................................................31
Exit....................................................................................................................................................................33
Updating the BIOS .................................................................................................................................................33
Clearing Forgotten Password.................................................................................................................................34
Clearing CMOS Passwords.....................................................................................................................................35
System and Setup Password..................................................................................................................................36
Assigning a System Password and Setup Password......................................................................................36
Deleting or Changing an Existing System and/or Setup Password..................................................................37
Disabling a System Password..........................................................................................................................37

4 Diagnostics.................................................................................................................................39
Enhanced Pre-Boot System Assessment (ePSA) Diagnostics...............................................................................39

5 Troubleshooting.........................................................................................................................41
Diagnostic Power LED Codes.................................................................................................................................41
Diagnostic Beep Codes..........................................................................................................................................42
Diagnostic Error Messages....................................................................................................................................42
System Error Messages..........................................................................................................................................46

6 Technical Specifications.........................................................................................................47

7 Contacting Dell..........................................................................................................................51
 1
Working on Your Computer
Before Working Inside Your Computer
Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help to ensure your
personal safety. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure included in this document assumes that the following
conditions exist:

• You have read the safety information that shipped with your computer.
• A component can be replaced or--if purchased separately--installed by performing the removal procedure in
reverse order.

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For
additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/
regulatory_compliance

CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only perform
troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as directed by the online or
telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your
warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions that came with the product.

CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically
touching an unpainted metal surface, such as a connector on the back of the computer.

CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a
card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its
pins.

CAUTION: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its pull-tab, not on the cable itself. Some
cables have connectors with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs
before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any
connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
NOTE: The color of your computer and certain components may appear differently than shown in this document.

To avoid damaging your computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.

1. Ensure that your work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.
2. Turn off your computer (see Turning Off Your Computer).
CAUTION: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug the
cable from the network device.
3. Disconnect all network cables from the computer.
4. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
5. Press and hold the power button while the computer is unplugged to ground the system board.
6. Remove the cover.

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 CAUTION: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal
surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal
surface to dissipate static electricity, which could harm internal components.

Turning Off Your Computer

CAUTION: To avoid losing data, save and close all open files and exit all open programs before you turn off your
computer.

1. Shut down the operating system:

– In Windows 7:

Click Start , then click Shut Down.

– In Windows Vista:

Click Start , then click the arrow in the lower-right corner of the Start menu as shown below, and then
click Shut Down.

– In Windows XP:
Click Start → Turn Off Computer → Turn Off . The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown
process is complete.
2. Ensure that the computer and all attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not
automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for about 6
seconds to turn them off.

After Working Inside Your Computer

After you complete any replacement procedure, ensure you connect any external devices, cards, and cables before
turning on your computer.

1. Replace the cover.

CAUTION: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the
computer.
2. Connect any telephone or network cables to your computer.
3. Connect your computer and all attached devices to their electrical outlets.
4. Turn on your computer.
5. If required, verify that the computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics.

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 2
Removing and Installing Components
This section provides detailed information on how to remove or install the components from your computer.

Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

• Small flat-blade screwdriver

• Phillips screwdriver
• Small plastic scribe

Removing the Cover

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the screws that secure the cover to the computer.

3. Slide the computer cover towards the back of the computer.

4. Remove the computer cover.

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Installing the Cover
1. Place the cover on the chassis.
2. Slide the computer cover towards the front of the computer.
3. Replace the screws that secure the cover to the computer.
4. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the Front Bezel

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Pry the front bezel-retention clips away from the chassis.

4. Rotate the bezel away from the computer to release the hooks on the opposite edge of the bezel from the chassis.

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Installing the Front Bezel
1. Place the hooks on the notches in the computer.
2. Rotate the front bezel towards the computer.
3. Press the front bezel till the tabs snap into place.
4. Replace the cover.
5. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the Expansion Card

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Press the release tab on the card-retention latch.

4. Press on the release-lever to release the securing tab from the notch in the card.

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5. Ease the card up and out of its connector and remove it from the computer.

Installing the Expansion Card

1. Place the card into it's socket and press it in till it snaps into place.
2. Secure the expansion card by pushing-in the card-retention latch till it snaps into place.
3. Replace the cover.
4. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the System Fan

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.

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4. Remove the screws that secure the fan to the back of the computer.

5. Remove the fan from the computer.

Installing the System Fan

1. Place the fan at it's location on the computer.
2. Replace the screws that secure the fan to the back of the computer.
3. Connect the fan cable to the system board.
4. Replace the cover.
5. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

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Removing the Memory
1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.

2. Remove the cover.

3. Press down on the memory-retention tabs on each side of the memory module.

4. Lift the memory module out of the connector on the system board.

Installing the Memory

1. Press the memory module into it's connector on the system board till it snaps into place.

2. Replace the cover.

3. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the Optical Drive

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.

2. Remove the cover.

3. Disconnect the data cable and power cable from the optical drive.

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4. Remove the screws that secure the optical drive to the computer.

5. Slide the optical drive through the front of the computer.

Installing the Optical Drive

1. Slide the optical drive through the front of the computer.
2. Replace the screws that secure the optical drive to the computer.
3. Connect the data cable and power cable to the optical drive.
4. Replace the cover.
5. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

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Removing the Hard Drive
1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Disconnect the SATA cable and power cable from the hard drive.

4. Remove the screws that secure the hard drive to the computer.

5. Remove the hard drive from the computer.

6. Remove the screw to release the brackets from the hard drive.

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Installing the Hard Drive
1. Replace the screws to secure the brackets to the hard drive.
2. Replace the hard drive into the computer.
3. Replace the screws that secure the hard drive to the computer.
4. Connect the SATA cable and power cable to the hard drive.
5. Replace the cover.
6. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Card

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Disconnect the WLAN cables.

4. Remove the screw that secures the WLAN card to the connector.
5. Lift and remove the WLAN card from the computer.

Installing the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Card

1. Place the WLAN card on its connector and push it in, to secure it to the connector.
2. Tighten the screw that secures the WLAN card to the connector.
3. Connect the WLAN cables.
4. Replace the cover.
5. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

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Removing the Card Reader
1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the:
a) cover
b) front bezel
3. Disconnect the multimedia-card reader cable from the system board. Disengage the cable from the metal clip(s), if
present, that secure(s) the cable along the inside of the computer.

4. Remove the screws that secure the multimedia-card reader into the drive cage.

5. Slide the multimedia-card reader out through the front of the computer.

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Installing the Card Reader
1. Slide the multimedia-card reader in through the front of the computer.
2. Replace the screws that secure the multimedia-card reader to the drive cage.
3. Route the cable thorough the metal clip(s), if present, to secure the cable along the inside of the computer.
4. Connect the multimedia-card reader cable to the system board.
5. Replace the:
a) front panel
b) cover
6. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the Power Supply Unit (PSU)

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Disconnect the power-supply cables connected to the hard drive (s), optical drive (s), and system board.

4. Remove the screws that secure the power-supply unit to the back of the computer.

5. Press the release button located on the floor of the system chassis, and then slide the power-supply unit toward
the front of the computer.

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6. Lift the power-supply unit and remove it from the computer.

Installing the Power Supply Unit (PSU)

1. Place the power-supply unit at it's location in the computer.
2. Slide the power-supply unit towards the back of the computer till it snaps into place.
3. Replace the screws that secure the power-supply unit to the back of the computer.
4. Connect the power supply cables to the hard drive (s), optical drive (s), and system board.
5. Replace the cover.
6. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the Power Switch

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Disconnect and un-thread the power switch and hard-drive LED cable from the system board.

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4. Remove the clip and the tabs holding the power switch/LED assembly from the computer.

Installing the Power Switch

1. Push the power switch/LED assembly into the computer till it snaps into place.
2. Connect the power switch and hard drive LED cable to the system board.
3. Replace the cover.
4. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the I/O Panel

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Disconnect the audio cable and USB cable from the system board.

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4. Un-thread the cable routing from the metal clips.

5. Remove the screw that secures the I/O panel to the computer.

6. Remove the I/O panel from the computer.

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Installing the I/O Panel
1. Place the I/O panel at it's location on the computer.
2. Replace the screw to secure the I/O panel to the computer.
3. Route the cables through the metal clips.
4. Replace the cover.
5. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the Processor

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Disconnect the heat sink and fan-assembly cable from the system board.

4. Loosen the captive screws that secures the heat sink and fan assembly to the system board.

21
5. Lift the heat sink and fan assembly, and remove it from the computer.
NOTE: Place the assembly with the fan on a flat surface, facing downward and with the thermal grease facing
up.

6. Press down on the release lever to move it outward to release it from the retention hook.

7. Lift the processor cover.

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8. Lift the processor to remove it from it's socket and place it in an antistatic packaging.

Installing the Processor

1. Align the two notches on the processor and insert it into the socket, the processor should slide in and fit into the
socket without any force.
NOTE: The processor is notched at one end with a triangle marking. The same marking is also notched on the
processor socket.
2. Press down on the release lever to lock it with the retention hook.
3. Close the processor cover.
4. Place the heat sink and fan assembly on the processor.
5. Tighten the captive screws securing the heat sink and fan assembly to the system board.
6. Connect the heat sink and fan assembly cable to the system board.
7. Replace the cover.
8. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the Coin-Cell Battery

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Press the release latch to pop the coin-cell battery from it's socket.

23
4. Lift the coin-cell battery out of the computer.

Installing the Coin-Cell Battery

1. Place the coin-cell battery in it's socket on the system board.

2. Press the coin-cell battery into the socket till it snaps into place.

3. Replace the cover.

4. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

Removing the System Board

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.

2. Remove the:
a) cover
b) memory
c) system fan
d) processor
e) expansion card
f) WLAN card

3. Disconnect and un-thread all the cables connected to the system board.

24
4. Remove the screws that secure the system board to the computer.

5. Slide the system board towards the front of the computer, and then carefully tilt it to a 45–degrees angle.

6. Lift the system board out of the computer chassis and place it in an antistatic packaging.

System Board Layout

The following image displays the system board layout of the computer.

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 1. SATA connectors (SATA0, SATA1, SATA2, SATA3)
2. front USB connector
3. front USB Connector
4. password reset jumper
5. audio connector
6. PCI Express x1 card slot
7. CMOS (coin-cell) battery
8. PCI Express x16 card slot
9. system fan connector
10. power connector
11. processor socket
12. processor fan connector
13. memory module connectors (DIMM 1 and 2)
14. main power connector
15. CMOS clear reset jumper
16. PCI Express-mini connector
17. front LED power connector

Installing the System Board

1. Place the system board into the computer and then slide it towards the back of the computer.
2. Replace the screws to secure the system board to the computer.
3. Connect all the cables to the system board.
4. Replace the:

26
 a) memory
b) system fan
c) WLAN card
d) expansion card
e) processor
f) cover
5. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

27
28
 3
System Setup
System Setup enables you to manage your computer hardware and specify BIOS‐level options. From the System Setup,
you can:

• Change the NVRAM settings after you add or remove hardware

• View the system hardware configuration
• Enable or disable integrated devices
• Set performance and power management thresholds
• Manage your computer security

Boot Sequence
Boot Sequence allows you to bypass the System Setup‐defined boot device order and boot directly to a specific device
(for example: optical drive or hard drive). During the Power-on Self Test (POST), when the Dell logo appears, you can:

• Access System Setup by pressing <F2> key

• Bring up the one-time boot menu by pressing <F12> key

The one-time boot menu displays the devices that you can boot from including the diagnostic option. The boot-menu
options are:

• Removable Drive (if available)

• STXXXX Drive
NOTE: XXX denotes the SATA drive number.
• Optical Drive
• Diagnostics
NOTE: Choosing Diagnostics, will display the ePSA diagnostics screen.

The boot sequence screen also displays the option to access the System Setup screen.

Navigation Keys
The following table displays the system setup navigation keys.

NOTE: For most of the system setup options, changes that you make are recorded but do not take effect until you
restart the system.
Table 1. Navigation Keys

Keys Navigation
Up arrow Moves to the previous field.
Down arrow Moves to the next field.

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 Keys Navigation
<Enter> Allows you to select a value in the selected field (if applicable) or follow the link in the field.
Spacebar Expands or collapses a drop‐down list, if applicable.
<Tab> Moves to the next focus area.
NOTE: For the standard graphics browser only.

<Esc> Moves to the previous page till you view the main screen. Pressing <Esc> in the main screen
displays a message that prompts you to save any unsaved changes and restarts the system.
<F1> Displays the System Setup help file.

System Setup Overview

System Setup allows you to:

• change the system configuration information after you add, change, or remove any hardware in your computer.
• set or change a user-selectable option such as the user password.
• read the current amount of memory or set the type of hard drive installed.

Before you use System Setup, it is recommended that you write down the System Setup screen information for future
reference.

CAUTION: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings for this program. Certain changes
can cause your computer to work incorrectly.

Enter System Setup

1. Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2. When the blue DELL logo is displayed, you must watch for the F2 prompt to appear.
3. Once the F2 prompt appears, press <F2> immediately.
NOTE: The F2 prompt indicates that the keyboard has initialized. This prompt can appear very quickly, so you
must watch for it to display, and then press <F2> . If you press <F2> before you are prompted, this keystroke
will be lost.
4. If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows
desktop. Then, shut down your computer and try again.

Jumper Settings
To change a jumper setting, pull the plug off its pin(s) and carefully fit it down onto the pin(s) indicated on the system
board. The following table displays the system board jumper settings.
Table 2. Jumper Settings

Jumper Setting Description

PSWD Default Password features are enabled
RTCRST pin 1 and 2 Real-time clock reset. Can be used for troubleshooting.

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System Setup Screens
Table 3. System Setup Layout

Menu — Appears on top of the System Setup window. This field provides a menu to access the System Setup options.
Press < Left Arrow > and < Right Arrow > keys to navigate. As a Menu option is highlighted, the Options List lists the
options that define the hardware installed on your computer.
Options List — Appears on the left Options Field — Appears on the right Dell Diagnostics — Appears on the
side of the System Setup window. The side of Dell Diagnostics and contains right side of the System Setup window
field lists features that define the information about each option listed in and contains help information about
configuration of your computer, the Dell Diagnostics. In this field you the option selected in Dell
including installed hardware, power can view information about your Diagnostics.
conservation, and security features. computer and make changes to your
Scroll up and down the list with the current settings. Press < Enter> to
up- and down-arrow keys. As an make changes to your current
option is highlighted, the Options Field settings. Press <ESC> to return to the
displays the option's current and Dell Diagnostics.
available settings.
NOTE: Not all settings listed in the
Options Field are changeable.

Dell Diagnostics — Appears below the Dell Diagnostics and lists keys and their functions within the active system
setup field.

Use the following keys to navigate through the System Setup screens:
Table 4. Keystroke Descriptions

Keystroke Action
< F2 > Displays information on any selected item in the System
Setup.

< Esc > Exit from current view or switch the current view to the
Dell Diagnostics page in the System Setup.

< Up Arrow > or < Down Arrow > Select an item to display.

< Left Arrow > or < Right Arrow > Select a menu to display.
– or + Change existing item value.

< Enter > Select the sub menu or execute command.

< F9 > Load setup default.

< F10 > Save current configuration and exit System Setup.

System Setup Options

Table 5. Main

System Information Displays the computer model number.

BIOS Version Displays the BIOS revision.

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Build Date Displays the date the system BIOS was built.
System Date Re-sets the date on the computer's internal calendar.
System Time Re-sets the time on the computer's internal clock.
Service Tag Displays the service tag of your computer.
Asset Tag Displays the asset tag of your computer (if available).
Processor Information
Processor Type Displays the type of processor.
L2 Cache Size Displays the processor L2 cache size.
L3 Cache Size Displays the processor L3 cache size.
Memory Information
Memory Installed Displays the total computer memory.
Memory Speed Displays the memory speed.
Memory Technology Displays the type and technology.
Device Information
SATA 0
SATA 1
Displays the model number and capacity of the hard drive.
SATA 2
SATA 3

Table 6. Advanced

CPU Configuration
Hyper-threading Enable or disable processor hyper- Default: Enabled
threading.
Limit CPUID Value Enable or disable the Limit CPUID Default: Enabled
Value feature.
CPU XD Support Enable or disable the CPU XD feature. Default: Enabled
Intel Virtualization Technology Enable or disable the Intel Default: Enabled
Virtualization feature.
Intel SpeedStep Enable or disable the Intel SpeedStep Default: Enabled
feature.
CPU C6 Report Enable or disable the processor Default: Enabled
power saving report to the operating
system.
System Configuration
Onboard Audio Controller Enable or disable the onboard audio Default: Enabled
controller.
Onboard LAN Controller Enable or disable the onboard LAN Default: Enabled
controller.
Onboard LAN Boot ROM Enable or disable the onboard LAN Default: Disabled
boot ROM.

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CPU Configuration
USB Controller Enable or disable the USB controller. Default: Enabled
USB Storage Boot Function Enable or disable the option to boot Default: Enabled
through a USB device
Power Management
Restore AC Power Loss Specifies how the computer will Default: Power Off
behave when AC power is restored
after an AC power loss.
Wake on Lan from S4/S5 Allows the computer to be remotely Default: Enabled
turned on.
Auto Power On Enable or disable the computer to Default: Disabled
power on automatically. You can
further specify the date and time the
computer can power ON.
Post Behaviour
NumLock Key Enable or disable the NumLock State Default: On
light during POST.
Keyboard Error Report Enable or disable the Keyboard Error Default: Enabled
Report to be displayed during POST.

Table 7. Boot

Set Boot Priority Specifies the order of different devices in which the
computer will boot through at start up.
Hard Disk Drives Specify which hard drive the computer can boot through.
CD/DVD ROM Drives Specify which CD/DVD (optical drives) the computer can
boot through.

Table 8. Security

Unlock Setup Status Specifies whether the BIOS can be edited.

Admin Password Status Specifies whether an administrator password has been
assigned.
System Password Status Specifies whether a system password has been assigned.
Admin Password Allows you to change or delete the administrator
password.

Exit
This section allows you to save, discard, and load default settings before exiting from System Setup.

Updating the BIOS

It is recommended to update your BIOS (system setup), on replacing the system board or if an update is available. For
notebooks, ensure that your computer battery is fully charged and connected to a power outlet

33
1. Restart the computer.
2. Go to support.dell.com/support/downloads.
3. If you have your computer's Service Tag or Express Service Code:
NOTE: For desktops, the service tag label is available on the front of your computer.

NOTE: For notebooks, the service tag label is available on the bottom of your computer.

a) Enter the Service Tag or Express Service Code and click Submit.
b) Click Submit and proceed to step 5.
4. If you do not have your computer's service tag or express service code, select one of the following:
a) Automatically detect my Service Tag for me
b) Choose from My Products and Services List
c) Choose from a list of all Dell products
5. On the application and drivers screen, under the Operating System drop-down list, select BIOS.
6. Identify the latest BIOS file and click Download File.
7. Select your preferred download method in the Please select your download method below window; click Download
Now.
The File Download window appears.
8. Click Save to save the file on your computer.
9. Click Run to install the updated BIOS settings on your computer.
Follow the instructions on the screen.

Clearing Forgotten Password

The computer’s software security features include a system password and a setup password. The password jumper
disables any password(s) currently in use. There are 3–pins for the password reset jumper.

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.

2. Remove the cover.
3. Identify the password reset jumper on the system board, see the System Board Layout.
4. Remove the 2-pin jumper plug from pins 2 and 3 and fix it on pins 1 and 2

5. Install the cover.

6. Connect the computer to the electrical outlet and power-on the computer to clear the password.
7. Power-off the computer and disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet.
8. Remove the cover.

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9. Replace the jumper on the pins 2 and 3.

10. Install the cover.

11. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.

12. Power-on the computer.

13. Go to the system setup, and assign a new system or setup password.

Clearing CMOS Passwords

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working Inside Your Computer.

2. Remove the cover.

3. Identify the CMOS password reset jumper on the system board, see the System Board Layout.

4. Remove the 2-pin jumper plug from pins 2 and 3 and fix it on pins 1 and 2

5. Install the cover.

6. Connect the computer to the electrical outlet and power-on the computer to clear the password.

7. Power-off the computer and disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet.

8. Remove the cover.

9. Replace the jumper on the pins 2 and 3.

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10. Install the cover.
11. Follow the procedures in After Working Inside Your Computer.
12. Power-on the computer.

System and Setup Password

You can create a system password and a setup password to secure your computer.

Password Type Description

System password Password that you must enter to log on to your system.

Setup password Password that you must enter to access and make changes to the BIOS settings of your
computer.

CAUTION: The password features provide a basic level of security for the data on your computer.

CAUTION: Anyone can access the data stored on your computer if is not locked and left unattended.

NOTE: Your computer is shipped with the system and setup password feature disabled.

Assigning a System Password and Setup Password

You can assign a new System Password and/or Setup Password or change an existing System Password and/or Setup
Password only when Password Status is Unlocked. If the Password Status is Locked, you cannot change the System
Password.

NOTE: If the password jumper is disabled, the existing System Password and Setup Password is deleted and you
need not provide the system password to log on to the computer.

To enter a system setup, press <F2> immediately after a power-on or reboot.

1. In the System BIOS or System Setup screen, select System Security and press <Enter>.
The System Security screen appears.
2. In the System Security screen, verify that Password Status is Unlocked.
3. Select System Password , enter your system password, and press <Enter> or <Tab>.
Use the following guidelines to assign the system password:
– A password can have up to 32 characters.
– The password can contain the numbers 0 through 9.

36
 – Only lower case letters are valid, upper case letters are not allowed.
– Only the following special characters are allowed: space, (”), (+), (,), (-), (.), (/), (;), ([), (\), (]), (`).

Re-enter the system password when prompted.

4. Type the system password that you entered earlier and click OK.
5. Select Setup Password, type your system password and press <Enter> or <Tab>.
A message prompts you to re-type the setup password.
6. Type the setup password that you entered earlier and click OK.
7. Press <Esc> and a message prompts you to save the changes.
8. Press <Y> to save the changes.
The computer reboots.

Deleting or Changing an Existing System and/or Setup Password

Ensure that the Password Status is Unlocked (in the System Setup) before attempting to delete or change the existing
System and/or Setup password. You cannot delete or change an existing System or Setup password, if the Password
Status is Locked.
To enter the System Setup, press <F2> immediately after a power-on or reboot.

1. In the System BIOS or System Setup screen, select System Security and press <Enter>.
The System Security screen is displayed.
2. In the System Security screen, verify that Password Status is Unlocked.
3. Select System Password, alter or delete the existing system password and press <Enter> or <Tab>.
4. Select Setup Password, alter or delete the existing setup password and press <Enter> or <Tab>.
NOTE: If you change the System and/or Setup password, re-enter the new password when promoted. If you
delete the System and/or Setup password, confirm the deletion when promoted.
5. Press <Esc> and a message prompts you to save the changes.
6. Press <Y> to save the changes and exit from the System Setup.
The computer reboots.

Disabling a System Password

The system's software security features include a system password and a setup password. The password jumper
disables any password(s) currently in use.
NOTE: You can also use the following steps to disable a forgotten password.

1. Follow the procedures in Before Working on Your Computer.

2. Remove the cover.
3. Identify the PSWD jumper on the system board.
4. Remove the PSWD jumper from the system board.
NOTE: The existing passwords are not disabled (erased) until the computer boots without the jumper.
5. Install the cover.
NOTE: If you assign a new system and/or setup password with the PSWD jumper installed, the system
disables the new password(s) the next time it boots.
6. Connect the computer to the electrical outlet and power-on the computer.

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7. Power-off the computer and disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet.
8. Remove the cover.
9. Replace the PSWD jumper on the system board.
10. Install the cover.
11. Follow the procedures in After Working on Your Computer.
12. Power-on the computer.
13. Go to the system setup, and assign a new system or setup password. See Setting up a System Password.

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 4
Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, run the ePSA diagnostics before contacting Dell for technical
assistance. The purpose of running diagnostics is to test your computer's hardware without requiring additional
equipment or risking data loss. If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, service and support personnel can use the
diagnostics results to help you solve the problem.

Enhanced Pre-Boot System Assessment (ePSA) Diagnostics

The ePSA diagnostics (also known as system diagnostics) performs a complete check of your hardware. The ePSA is
embedded with the BIOS and is launched by the BIOS internally. The embedded system diagnostics provides a set of
options for particular devices or device groups allowing you to:

• Run tests automatically or in an interactive mode

• Repeat tests
• Display or save test results
• Run thorough tests to introduce additional test options to provide extra information about the failed device(s)
• View status messages that inform you if tests are completed successfully
• View error messages that inform you of problems encountered during testing

CAUTION: Use the system diagnostics to test only your computer. Using this program with other computers may
cause invalid results or error messages.

NOTE: Some tests for specific devices require user interaction. Always ensure that you are present at the
computer terminal when the diagnostic tests are performed.

1. Power-on the computer.

2. As the computer boots, press the <F12> key as the Dell logo appears.
3. On the boot menu screen, select the Diagnostics option.
The Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment window is displayed, listing all devices detected in the computer. The
diagnostics starts running the tests on all the detected devices.
4. If you wish to run a diagnostic test on a specific device, press <Esc> and click Yes to stop the diagnostic test.
5. Select the device from the left pane and click Run Tests.
6. If there are any issues, error codes are displayed.
Note the error code and contact Dell.

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40
 5
Troubleshooting
Diagnostic Power LED Codes
Power LED Light Status Possible Cause Troubleshooting Steps
Off The computer is either turned off or is • Re-seat the power cable in
not receiving power. the power connector on the
back of the computer and the
electrical outlet.
• If the computer is plugged
into a power strip, ensure the
power strip is plugged into an
electrical outlet and is turned
on. Also, bypass power
protection devices, power
strips, and power extension
cables to verify the computer
turns on properly.
• Ensure the electrical outlet is
working by testing it with
another device, such as a
lamp.

Blinking Amber Computer fails to complete POST or • Remove and then reinstall any
processor failure. cards.
• Remove and then reinstall the
graphics card, if applicable.
• Ensure the power cable is
connected to the
motherboard and processor.

Steady Amber Computer is in standby or this is a • Press the power button to

computer fault error condition, bring the computer out of
including the power supply. Only the standby mode.
+5VSB rail on the power supply is • Ensure all power cables are
working correctly. securely connected to the
system board.
• Ensure the main power cable
and front panel cable are
securely connected to the
system board.

Steady White The computer is fully functional and in If the computer is not responding, do
the On state. the following:

• Ensure the display is

connected and turned on.

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Power LED Light Status Possible Cause Troubleshooting Steps

• If the display is connected

and turned on, listen for a
beep code.

Diagnostic Beep Codes

Table 9. Beep Codes with Cause and Troubleshooting Steps

Beep Possible Cause Troubleshooting Steps

1 BIOS ROM checksum in progress of System board failure, covers BIOS
failure. corruption or ROM error

2 No RAM detected No memory detected

3 System board failure

• Chipset Error (Intel B75
Chipset, DMA/IMR/Timer
Error for Intel platform);
Chipset error
• Time-Of-Day Clock test failure
• Gate A20 failure
• Super I/O chip failure
• Keyboard controller test
failure

4 RAM Read/Write failure Memory failure

5 RTC Power Fail COMS battery failure

6 Video BIOS Test failure Video card failure

7 Processor failure Processor failure

Diagnostic Error Messages

Error Messages Description
AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE The touch pad or external mouse may be faulty. For an
external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the
Pointing Device option in the system setup program.

BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put
spaces in the proper place, and used the correct
pathname.

CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has
failed. Contact Dell.

CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE The optical drive does not respond to commands from the
computer.

DATA ERROR The hard drive cannot read the data.

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Error Messages Description
DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly
seated. Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary,
replace them.
DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests
in the Dell Diagnostics.

DRIVE NOT READY The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it
can continue. Install a hard drive in the hard drive bay.

ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD The computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert
the card or try another card.

EXTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS CHANGED The amount of memory recorded in non-volatile memory
(NVRAM) does not match the memory installed in the
computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears
again,contact Dell.

THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the
DESTINATION DRIVE disk, or the disk is full. Try copying the file to a different
disk or use a larger capacity disk.

A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING Do not use these characters in filenames.
CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? " < > | -

GATE A20 FAILURE A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory
modules and, if necessary, replace them.

GENERAL FAILURE The operating system is unable to carry out the command.
The message is usually followed by specific information.
For example, Printer out of paper. Take the appropriate
action.

HARD-DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION ERROR The computer cannot identify the drive type. Shut down
the computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the
computer from a optical drive. Then, shut down the
computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the
computer. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell
Diagnostics.
HARD-DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0 The hard drive does not respond to commands from the
computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard
drive, and boot the computer from a optical drive. Then,
shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and
restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another
drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell
Diagnostics.

HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE The hard drive does not respond to commands from the
computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard
drive, and boot the computer from a optical drive. Then,
shut down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and
restart the computer. If the problem persists, try another

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Error Messages Description
drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell
Diagnostics.
HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer,
remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from a
optical. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the hard
drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists, try
another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in the Dell
Diagnostics.
INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA The operating system is trying to boot to non-bootable
media, such as a floppy disk or optical drive. Insert
bootable media.
INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-PLEASE RUN The system configuration information does not match the
SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM hardware configuration. The message is most likely to
occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the
appropriate options in the system setup program.

KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run
the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics.

KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE For external keyboards, check the cable connection.
Restart the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or
the mouse during the boot routine. Run the Keyboard
Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics.

KEYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run
theKeyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics.

KEYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE For external keyboards or keypads, check the cable
connection. Restart the computer, and avoid touching the
keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the Stuck
Key test in the Dell Diagnostics.

LICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN Dell MediaDirect cannot verify the Digital Rights
MEDIADIRECT Management (DRM) restrictions on the file, so the file
cannot be played.
MEMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
VALUE EXPECTING VALUE Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them.

MEMORY ALLOCATION ERROR The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with
the operating system, another program, or a utility. Shut
down the computer, wait 30 seconds, and then restart it.
Try to run the program again. If the error message still
appears, see the software documentation.

MEMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them.

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Error Messages Description
MEMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
VALUE EXPECTING VALUE Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them.
MEMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
VALUE EXPECTING VALUE Reinstall the memory modules and, if necessary, replace
them.
NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE The computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard drive
is your boot device, ensure that the drive is installed,
properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.
NO BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE The operating system may be corrupted, contact Dell.

NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run
the System Set tests in theDell Diagnostics.

NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME You have too many programs open. Close all windows and
PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN open the program that you want to use.

OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND Reinstall the hard drive (see your Owner's Manual at
support.dell.com). If the problem persists, contact Dell.

OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM The optional ROM has failed. Contact Dell.

SECTOR NOT FOUND The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard
drive. You may have a defective sector or corrupted FAT
on the hard drive. Run the Windows error-checking utility
to check the file structure on the hard drive. See Windows
Help and Support for instructions (click Start > Help and
Support). If a large number of sectors are defective, back
up the data (if possible), and then reformat the hard drive.

SEEK ERROR The operating system cannot find a specific track on the
hard drive.

SHUTDOWN FAILURE A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run

the System Set tests in the contact Dell .

TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER System configuration settings are corrupted. Connect your
computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If
the problem persists, try to restore the data by entering
the system setup program, then immediately exit the
program. If the message reappears, contact Dell.

TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED The reserve battery that supports the system
configuration settings may require recharging. Connect
your computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery.
If the problem persists, contact Dell.

TIME-OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYSTEM SETUP The time or date stored in the system setup program does
PROGRAM not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the
Date and Time options.

TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run
the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics.

45
Error Messages Description
UNEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED MODE The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or a
memory module may be loose. Run the System Memory
tests and the Keyboard Controller test in the contact Dell.
X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT READY Insert a disk into the drive and try again.

WARNING: BATTERY IS CRITICALLY LOW The battery is running out of charge. Replace the battery,
or connect the computer to an electrical outlet; otherwise,
activate hibernate mode or shut down the computer.

System Error Messages

System Message Description
Alert! Previous attempts at booting this system have failed The computer failed to complete the boot routine three
at checkpoint [nnnn]. For help in resolving this problem, consecutive times for the same error.
please note this checkpoint and contact Dell Technical
Support

CMOS checksum error Possible motherboard failure or Real-time clock (RTC)

battery low.

CPU fan failure CPU fan has failed

System fan failure System fan has failed

Hard-disk drive failure Possible hard disk drive failure during POST

Keyboard failure Keyboard failure or loose cable. If reseating the cable

does not solve the problem, replace the keyboard.

No boot device available No bootable partition on hard disk drive, the hard disk
drive cable is loose, or no bootable device exists.

• If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that

the cables are connected and that the drive is
installed properly and partitioned as a boot
device.
• Enter system setup and ensure that the boot
sequence information is correct.

No timer tick interrupt A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning or

motherboard failure.

USB over current error Disconnect the USB device. The USB device needs more
power for it to function properly. Use an external power
source to connect the USB device, or if the device has
two USB cables, connect both of them.

CAUTION - Hard Drive SELF MONITORING SYSTEM has S.M.A.R.T error, possible hard disk drive failure
reported that a parameter has exceeded its normal
operating range. Dell recommends that you back up your
data regularly. A parameter out of range may or may not
indicate a potential hard drive problem

46
 6
Technical Specifications
NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. The following specifications are only those required by law to ship with your
computer. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, click Start → Help and Support and
select the option to view information about your computer.

Processor
Type • Intel Core i3 series
• Intel Core i5 series
• Intel Pentium Dual-Core
• Intel Celeron

L2 cache up to 6 MB (depending on the processor)

Memory
Memory module connector two DIMM slots

Memory module capacity 2 GB, 4 GB, 6 GB or 8 GB

Type 1333 MHz and 1600 MHz DDR3 (Non-ECC)

Minimum memory 2 GB

Maximum memory 8 GB

Video
Video Type:

Integrated Intel HD Graphics (with Intel Pentium Dual-Core CPU-GPU

combo)
Discrete • Nvidia GeForce GT 620, 1GB, DDR3
• Nvidia GeForce GT640 1G GDDR5
• AMD Radeon HD 7570 1GB DDR5

Integrated video memory up to 1.7 GB shared video memory (Microsoft Windows

Vista and Windows 7)

Audio
Integrated Conexant (CX20641-11Z)

Network
Integrated Realtek 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet

47
System Information
Chipset Intel B75

BIOS chip (NVRAM) 64 Mb

Expansion Bus
Bus type • PCI Express 2.0
• SATA 1.0 and 2.0
• USB 2.0
• USB 3.0
• 19-in-1 media card reader (optional)

Bus speed:

PCI Express • PCI Express x1-slot (includes mini PCI-Express)

support speed – 500 Mbps (Gen 1/2)
• PCI Express x16-slot support speed – 8 Gbps (Gen
1/2/3)

SATA 1.5/3.0/6.0 Gbps

USB 2.0 480 Mbps

USB 3.0 5 Gbps

Cards
PCIe x16 one full-height card

PCIe x1 up to three full-height cards

Drives
Externally accessible:

5.25 inch drive bays two

Internally accessible:
3.5 inch drive bays two

External Connectors
Audio:

Back panel three connectors

Front Panel two front-panel connectors for headphone and microphone

Network one RJ45 connector

USB:

Front panel two USB 2.0 connectors

Back panel • four USB 3.0 connectors

48
External Connectors

• two USB 2.0 connectors

Video • one 15-hole VGA connector

• one 19-pin HDMI connector

Control Lights And Diagnostic Lights

power button light white light — solid white light indicates power-on state.

amber light — solid amber light indicates sleep/stand by

state of the computer; blinking amber light indicates a
problem with the system board.
drive activity light white light — blinking white light indicates that the
computer is reading data from, or writing data to the hard
drive.

Power
Coin-cell battery 3 V CR2032 lithium coin cell

Input voltage • 100 VAC to 127 VAC

• 200 VAC to 240 VAC

Input frequency 50 Hz to 60 Hz

Wattage 300 W

Input current 9.00 A (8.00 A)/4.50 A

NOTE: Total power output of +5.50 V and +3.30 V can not exceed 160 W

Maximum heat dissipation: 1574 BTU/hr

NOTE: Heat dissipation is calculated by using the power supply wattage rating.

Physical
Height 366.00 mm (14.41 inches)

Width 175.00 mm (6.89 inches)

Depth 434.00 mm (17.09 inches)

Weight (Minimum) 7.90 kg (17.40 lb)

Environmental
Temperature:

Operating 10 °C to 35 °C (50 °F to 95 °F)

Storage –40 °C to 65 °C (–40 °F to 149 °F)

49
Environmental
Relative humidity 20 % to 80 % (noncondensing)

Altitude:
Operating –16 m to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)
NOTE: For altitudes above 2950 feet, the maximum
operating temperature is derated 1ºF/550 ft.

Storage –15.20 m to 10,668 m (–50 ft to 35,000 ft)

Airborne contaminant level G1 as defined by ISA-S71.04–1985

50
 7
Contacting Dell
NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice,
packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.
Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. Availability 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:

1. Visit support.dell.com.
2. Select your support category.
3. If you are not a U.S. customer, select your country code at the bottom of the support.dell.com page, or select All to
see more choices.
4. Select the appropriate service or support link based on your need.

51