Dell d400 - Latitude - Pentium M 1.3 GHz User guide

www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Dell™ Latitude™ D400
System Information Guide
Model PPT
1T900fc0.fm Page 1 Monday, March 24, 2003 4:14 PM

1T900fc0.fm Page 2 Monday, March 24, 2003 4:14 PM

www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Dell™ Latitude™ D400
System Information Guide
Model PPT





 
 






Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2003 Dell Computer Corporation. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Computer Corporation is strictly
forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Latitude, and TrueMobile are trademarks of Dell Computer
Corporation; Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell Computer Corporation under
license; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are
registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; EMC is the registered trademark of EMC Corporation.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and
names or their products. Dell Computer Corporation disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names
other than its own.




Contents 3
Contents
CAUTION: Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Air Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
When Using Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Ergonomic Computing Habits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
When Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Battery Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Finding Information for Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Setting Up Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Connecting the Dell™ D/Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
About Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Left View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Right View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Back View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Bottom View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Removing a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Installing a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Running the Dell Diagnostics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Regulatory Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

4Contents

System Information Guide 5
CAUTION: Safety Instructions
Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect
your computer and working environment from potential damage.
General
• Do not attempt to service the computer yourself unless you are a trained service
technician. Always follow installation instructions closely.
• If you use an extension power cable with your AC adapter, ensure that the total ampere
rating of the products plugged in to the extension power cable does not exceed the
ampere rating of the extension cable.
• Do not push objects into air vents or openings of your computer. Doing so can cause fire
or electric shock by shorting out interior components.
• Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment, such as a carrying case or a
closed briefcase, while the computer is turned on. Restricting airflow can damage the
computer or cause a fire.
• Keep your computer away from radiators and heat sources. Also, do not block cooling
vents. Avoid placing loose papers underneath your computer; do not place your computer
in a closed-in wall unit or on a bed, sofa, or rug.
• Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a desk top or on the floor, when you use
it to run the computer or to charge the battery. Do not cover the AC adapter with papers
or other items that will reduce cooling; also, do not use the AC adapter inside a carrying
case.
• The AC adapter may become hot during normal operation of your computer. Use care
when handling the adapter during or immediately after operation.
• Do not allow your portable computer to operate with the base resting directly on exposed
skin for extended periods of time. The surface temperature of the base will rise during
normal operation (particularly when AC power is present). Allowing sustained contact
with exposed skin can cause discomfort or, eventually, a burn.
• Do not use your computer in a wet environment, for example, near a bath tub, sink, or
swimming pool or in a wet basement.
• If your computer includes an integrated or optional (PC Card) modem, disconnect the
modem cable if an electrical storm is approaching to avoid the remote risk of electric
shock from lightning via the telephone line.

6System Information Guide
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
• To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not connect or disconnect any
cables or perform maintenance or reconfiguration of this product during an electrical
storm. Do not use your computer during an electrical storm unless all cables have been
disconnected and the computer is operating on battery power.
• If your computer includes a modem, the cable used with the modem should be
manufactured with a minimum wire size of 26 American wire gauge (AWG) and an FCC-
compliant RJ-11 modular plug.
• Before you open the memory module/modem cover on the bottom of your computer,
disconnect all cables from their electrical outlets and disconnect the telephone cable.
• If your computer has both a modem RJ-11 connector and a network RJ-45 connector,
which look alike, make sure you insert the telephone cable into the RJ-11 connector, not
the RJ-45 connector.
• PC Cards may become very warm during normal operation. Use care when removing PC
Cards after their continuous operation.
• Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
Clean your computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol
cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.
Power
• Use only the Dell-provided AC adapter approved for use with this computer. Use of
another AC adapter may cause a fire or explosion.
• Before you connect the computer to an electrical outlet, check the AC adapter voltage
rating to ensure that the required voltage and frequency match the available power
source.
• To remove the computer from all power sources, turn the computer off, disconnect the
AC adapter from the electrical outlet, and remove any battery installed in the battery bay
or module bay.
• To help prevent electric shock, plug the AC adapter and device power cables into properly
grounded power sources. These power cables may be equipped with 3-prong plugs to
provide an earth grounding connection. Do not use adapter plugs or remove the
grounding prong from the power cable plug. If you use a power extension cable, use the
appropriate type, 2-prong or 3-prong, to mate with the AC adapter power cable.
• Be sure that nothing rests on your AC adapter’s power cable and that the cable is not
located where it can be tripped over or stepped on.
CAUTION: Safety Instructions (continued)

System Information Guide 7
• If you are using a multiple-outlet power strip, use caution when plugging the AC
adapter’s power cable into the power strip. Some power strips may allow you to insert the
plug incorrectly. Incorrect insertion of the power plug could result in permanent damage
to your computer, as well as risk of electric shock and/or fire. Ensure that the ground
prong of the power plug is inserted into the mating ground contact of the power strip.
Battery
• Use only Dell™ battery modules that are approved for use with this computer. Use of
other types may increase the risk of fire or explosion.
• Do not carry a battery pack in your pocket, purse, or other container where metal objects
(such as car keys or paper clips) could short-circuit the battery terminals. The resulting
excessive current flow can cause extremely high temperatures and may result in damage
to the battery pack or cause fire or burns.
• The battery poses a burn hazard if you handle it improperly. Do not disassemble it.
Handle a damaged or leaking battery pack with extreme care. If the battery is damaged,
electrolyte may leak from the cells and may cause personal injury.
• Keep the battery away from children.
• Do not store or leave your computer or battery pack near a heat source such as a radiator,
fireplace, stove, electric heater, or other heat-generating appliance or otherwise expose it
to temperatures in excess of 60ºC (140ºF). When heated to excessive temperatures,
battery cells could explode or vent, posing a risk of fire.
• Do not dispose of your computer’s battery in a fire or with normal household waste.
Battery cells may explode. Discard a used battery according to the manufacturer’s
instructions or contact your local waste disposal agency for disposal instructions. Dispose
of a spent or damaged battery promptly.
CAUTION: Safety Instructions (continued)

8System Information Guide
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Air Travel
• Certain Federal Aviation Administration regulations and/or airline-specific restrictions
may apply to the operation of your Dell computer while you are on board an aircraft. For
example, such regulations/restrictions may prohibit the use of any personal electronic
device (PED) that has the capacity for intentional transmission of radio frequency or
other electromagnetic signals while on an aircraft.
– In order to best comply with all such restrictions, if your Dell portable computer is
equipped with Dell TrueMobile™ or some other wireless communication device,
please disable this device before you board the aircraft and follow all instructions
provided by airline personnel with regard to such device. See "Dell™ QuickSet
Features" in your User’s Guide for instructions on disabling wireless activity.
– Additionally, the use of any PED, such as a portable computer, may be prohibited in
aircraft during certain critical phases of flight, for example, takeoff and landing. Some
airlines may further define the critical flight phase as any time the aircraft is below
3050 m (10,000 ft). Please follow the airline’s specific instructions as to when the use
of a PED is allowed.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Instructions
Use shielded signal cables to ensure that you maintain the appropriate EMC classification for
the intended environment. If you prefer, you can order a cable from Dell at its worldwide
website at www.dell.com.
Static electricity can harm electronic components inside your computer. To prevent static
damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s
electronic components, such as a memory module. You can do so by touching an unpainted
metal surface on the computer’s input/output panel.
CAUTION: Safety Instructions (continued)

System Information Guide 9
When Using Your Computer
Observe the following safe-handling guidelines to prevent damage to your computer:
• When setting up the computer for work, place it on a level surface.
• When traveling, do not check the computer as baggage. You can put your computer
through an X-ray security machine, but never put your computer through a metal
detector. If you have the computer checked by hand, be sure to have a charged battery
available in case you are asked to turn on the computer.
• When traveling with the hard drive removed from the computer, wrap the drive in a
nonconducting material, such as cloth or paper. If you have the drive checked by hand, be
ready to install the drive in the computer. You can put the hard drive through anX-ray
security machine, but never put the drive through a metal detector.
• When traveling, do not place the computer in overhead storage compartments where it
could slide around. Do not drop your computer or subject it to other mechanical shocks.
• Protect your computer, battery, and hard drive from environmental hazards such as dirt,
dust, food, liquids, temperature extremes, and overexposure to sunlight.
• When you move your computer between environments with very different temperature
and/or humidity ranges, condensation may form on or within the computer. To avoid
damaging the computer, allow sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate before using
the computer.
NOTICE: When taking the computer from low-temperature conditions into a warmer environment
or from high-temperature conditions into a cooler environment, allow the computer to acclimate to
room temperature before turning on power.
• When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the
cable itself. As you pull out the connector, keep it evenly aligned to avoid bending any
connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable make sure both connectors are correctly
oriented and aligned.
• Handle components with care. Hold a component such as a memory module by its edges,
not its pins.
• When preparing to remove a memory module from the system board or disconnect a
device from the computer, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter cable,
remove any battery installed in the battery bay or module bay, and then wait 5 seconds
before proceeding to help avoid possible damage to the system board.

10 System Information Guide
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
• Clean the display with a soft, clean cloth and water. Apply the water to the cloth; then
stroke the cloth across the display in one direction, moving from the top of the display to
the bottom. Remove moisture from the display quickly and keep the display dry. Long-
term exposure to moisture can damage the display. Do not use a commercial window
cleaner to clean your display.
• If your computer gets wet or is damaged, follow the procedures described in "Solving
Problems" in your User’s Guide. If, after following these procedures, you confirm that your
computer is not operating properly, contact Dell (see "Getting Help" in your User’s Guide
for the appropriate contact information).
Ergonomic Computing Habits
CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.
CAUTION: Viewing the display or external monitor screen for extended periods of
time may result in eye strain.
For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in the Appendix of your online
User’s Guide when setting up and using your computer.
This portable computer is not designed for continuous operation as office equipment.For
extended use in an office, it is recommended that you connect an external keyboard.
When Working Inside Your Computer
Before removing or installing memory modules, Mini PCI cards, or modems, perform the
following steps in the sequence indicated.
NOTICE: The only time you should ever access the inside of your computer is when you are
installing memory modules, a Mini PCI card, or a modem.
NOTICE: Wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before disconnecting a device or removing
a memory module, Mini PCI card, or modem to help prevent possible damage to the system board.
1Shut down your computer and turn off any attached devices.
2Disconnect your computer and devices from electrical outlets to reduce the potential for
personal injury or shock. Also, disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from
the computer.
3Remove the main battery from the battery bay and, if necessary, the second battery from
the module bay.
When Using Your Computer (continued)

System Information Guide 11
4Ground yourself by touching any unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.
While you work, periodically touch the unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static
electricity that might harm internal components.
Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge
Static electricity can harm electronic components inside your computer. To prevent static
damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s
electronic components, such as a memory module. You can do so by touching any unpainted
metal surface on the back of the computer.
As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch any unpainted metal surface
on the back of the computer to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.
You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD):
• When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove
the component from the antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the
component. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, be sure to discharge static
electricity from your body.
• When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container or
packaging.
• Handle all sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads
and workbench pads.
Battery Disposal
Your computer uses a lithium-ion battery and a reserve battery. For instructions about replacing
the lithium-ion battery in your computer, refer to "Removing a Battery" on page 20. The reserve
battery is a long-life battery, and it is very possible that you will never need to replace it.
However, should you need to replace it, the procedure must be performed by an authorized
service technician.
Do not dispose of the battery along with household waste. Contact your local waste disposal
agency for the address of the nearest battery deposit site.
When Using Your Computer (continued)

12 System Information Guide
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Finding Information for Your Computer
What are you looking for? Find It Here
• A diagnostic program for my computer
• Drivers for my computer
• My computer documentation
• My device documentation
Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the
ResourceCD)
Documentation and drivers are already
installed on your computer when shipped
from Dell. You can use the CD to reinstall
drivers, run the Dell Diagnostics, or access
your documentation.
Readme files may be included on your CD
to provide last-minute updates about
technical changes to your computer or
advanced technical-reference material for
experienced users or technicians.
• How to set up my computer
• Warranty Information
• Safety Instructions
Dell System Information Guide
NOTE: This document is available in pdf form on support.dell.com.
• How to remove and replace parts
• How to obtain technical specifications
• How to configure system settings
• How to troubleshoot and solve
problems
User’s Guide—Windows Help and Support Center
1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2Click User’s and system guides and click User’s guides.
Microsoft Windows 2000
Double-click the User’s Guides icon on your desktop.
• Express Service Code and Service Tag
•Microsoft
®Windows®License Label
Express Service Code and Product Ke y
These labels are located on your
computer.

System Information Guide 13
• Latest drivers for my computer
• Answers to technical service and
support questions
• Online discussions with other users
and technical support
• Documentation for my computer
Dell Support Website
The Dell Support website provides several online tools, including:
• Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians,
and online courses
• Community Forum — Online discussion with other Dell customers
• Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as memory,
the hard drive, and the operating system
• Customer Care — Contact information, order status, warranty, and
repair information
• Downloads — Drivers, patches, and software updates
• Reference — Computer documentation, product specifications, and
white papers
• How to use Windows XP
• Documentation for my computer
• Documentation for devices
(such as a modem)
Windows Help and Support Center
1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and click the arrow
icon.
3Click the topic that describes your problem.
4Follow the instructions on the screen.
• How to reinstall my operating system Operating System CD
If you reinstall your operating system, use
the Drivers and Utilities CD to reinstall
drivers for the devices that came with
your computer.
The product key for your operating system
is located on your computer.
What are you looking for? Find It Here

14 System Information Guide
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Setting Up Your Computer
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions at the beginning of this document.
1Unpack the accessories box.
2Set aside the contents of the accessories box, which you will need to complete the
setup of your computer.
The accessories box also contains user documentation and any software or additional
hardware (such as PC Cards, drives, or batteries) that you have ordered.
3Connect the AC adapter to the AC adapter connector on the computer and to the
electrical outlet.
4Open the computer display and press the power button to turn on the computer.
NOTE: Do not connect the computer to the docking device until the computer has been turned
on and shut down at least once.

System Information Guide 15
Connecting the Dell™ D/Bay
To use an optical drive or a floppy drive, connect the Dell D/Bay to the computer:
1Insert the device into the bay, push the device until you feel a click, and then push the
device latch release in so that it is flush with the bay.
power button

16 System Information Guide
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
2Connect the D/Bay cable to the Dell D/Bay connector on the computer.
See your User’s Guide for additional information.

System Information Guide 17
About Your Computer
Front View
display latch
power button
display
touch pad/track
stick buttons
speaker
track stick
keyboard status
lights
battery/battery bay
touch pad
microphone
device status
lights
keyboard
volume control
buttons
mute button

18 System Information Guide
www.dell.com | support.dell.com
Left View
Right View
infrared sensor
PC Card slot
headphones connector
microphone connector
Dell D/Bay connector
IEEE 1394 connector
security cable slot
fan exhausthard drive smart card slot air intake