Dell D420 - Latitude Notebook Computer User manual

Dell™Latitude™D420User'sGuide

Notes, Notices, and Cautions
Abbreviations and Acronyms
For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see Glossary.
IfyoupurchasedaDell™nSeriescomputer,anyreferencesinthisdocumenttoMicrosoft®Windows®operating systems are not applicable.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
©2006DellInc.Allrightsreserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerConnect, PowerEdge, PowerVault, PowerApp,ExpressCharge, Strike Zone, Dell
TravelLite, Undock & Go, XPS, Wi-Fi Catcher, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Core is a trademark and Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation; Microsoft,
Outlook, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; EMC
is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Dell Inc. has
determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
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 Inc. disclaims any
proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model PP09S
June 2006 P/N PG124 Rev. A01
Finding Information
System Setup Program
About Your Computer
Reinstalling Software
Transferring Information to a New Computer
Adding and Replacing Parts
Using a Battery
Dell™QuickSet
Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad
Traveling With Your Computer
Using the Display
Getting Help
Setting Up a Network
Specifications
Using Cards
Glossary
Securing Your Computer
Appendix
Troubleshooting
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

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About Your Computer
Dell™Latitude™D420User'sGuide
Front View
Left View
Right View
Back View
Bottom View
Front View

display —For more information about your display, see Using the Display.

device status lights
1
display latch
5
touch pad buttons
9
keyboard and network status lights
2
display
6
track stick
10
ambient light sensor
3
device status lights
7
keyboard


4
touch pad
8
speaker


Turns on when you turn on the computer and blinks when the computer is in Standby
mode.
Turns on when the computer reads or writes data.

If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, the light operates as follows:
¡Solid green: The battery is charging.
¡Flashing green: The battery is almost fully charged.
If the computer is running on a battery, the light operates as follows:
¡Off: The battery is adequately charged (or the computer is turned off).
¡Flashing orange: The battery charge is low.
¡Solid orange: The battery charge is critically low.

keyboard —The keyboard includes a numeric keypad as well as the Windows logo key. For information on supported keyboard shortcuts, see Key
Combinations.

fingerprint reader (optional) —
HelpstokeepyourDell™computersecure.Whenyouslideyourfingeroverthereader,itusesyouruniquefingerprinttoauthenticateyouruseridentity.

touch pad —Provides the functionality of a mouse. See Touch Pad for more information.

display latch —Keeps the display closed.

speakers —To adjust the volume of the integrated speakers, press the volume-control keyboard shortcuts. For more information, see Key Combinations.

touch pad buttons —Provide the functionality of a mouse. See Touch Pad for more information.

keyboard and network status lights
The green lights located above the keyboard indicate the following:
NOTICE: To avoid loss of data, never turn off the computer while the light is
flashing.
Turns on steadily or blinks to indicate battery charge status.
Turns on when the uppercase letter function is enabled.
Turns on when wireless devices are enabled.
Turns on when the numeric keypad is enabled.
Turns on when the scroll lock function is enabled.
Turns on when Bluetooth®wireless technology is enabled. To enable or disable
Bluetooth wireless technology or other wireless devices, turn the wireless WiFi Locator
-Wireless On/Off switch on or off.

NOTE: Bluetooth wireless technology is an optional feature on your computer, so the
icon turns on only if Bluetooth wireless technology is installed on your computer.
For more information, see the documentation that came with your Bluetooth wireless
technology.

If the computer stops responding, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off completely (which may take several seconds).
Left View

security cable slot —Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. For more information, see Security Cable Lock.

headphone connector —Lets you connect headphones or speakers to the connector.

microphone connector —Lets you connect a microphone to the connector.

PC Card slot —Supports one PC Card, such as a modem or network adapter, or a 34-mm ExpressCard in an adapter. The computer ships with a plastic blank
installed in the slot. For more information, see Installing a PC Card or 34-mm ExpressCard.

smart card slot —Supports one smart card.

Secure Digital memory card slot —The Secure Digital memory card slot supports one Secure Digital memory card. Use Secure Digital memory cards to save or
back up data.

audio connectors
Right View
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, turn off your computer by performing a Microsoft®Windows®operating system shutdown rather than by pressing the
power button.
1
security cable slot
3
headphone connector
5
SmartCard slot
2
microphone connector
4
PC Card slot
6
Secure Digital (SD) card slot
NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fans or the computer.
Attach a microphone to the connector.
Attach headphones or speakers to the connector.
CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment,
such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.


power button —Press the power button to turn on the computer or exit a power management mode (see Power Management Modes).
Back View

USB connectors

modem connector (RJ-11)

network connector (RJ-45)

video connector

AC adapter connector —Attach an AC adapter to the computer.

1
air vent
2
WiFi Locator -Wireless On/Off switch
3
power button
1
network connector (RJ-45)
4
video connector
7
IEEE 1394 connector
2
modem connector (RJ-11)
5
powered USB connector
8
AC adapter connector
3
USB connectors (2)
6
infrared sensor


Connect a USB device, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. You can also
connect the optional floppy drive directly to a USB connector using the
optional floppy drive cable.
If you ordered the optional internal modem, connect the telephone line to
the modem connector.
For information on using the modem, see the online modem
documentation supplied with your computer. See Finding Information for
information about accessing online user's guides.
NOTICE: The network connector is slightly larger than the modem connector. To avoid damaging the computer, do not plug a telephone line into the
network connector.
Connects the computer to a network. The two lights next to the connector
indicate the status of both the connection and the transfer of information
for wired network communications.
For information on using the network adapter, see the device user's guide
supplied with your computer. See Finding Information.
Connects an external monitor. For more information, see Using the
Display.

IEEE 1394 Connector —Connects devices supporting IEEE 1394 high-speed transfer rates, such as some digital video cameras.

infrared sensor —Lets you transfer files from your computer to another infrared-compatible device without using cable connections.
When you receive your computer, the infrared sensor is disabled. You can use the system setup program (see System Setup Program) to enable the infrared
sensor. For information on transferring data, see Windows Help, the Help and Support Center, or the documentation that came with your infrared-compatible
device. For information on accessing the Help and Support Center, see Windows Help and Support Center.
The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned either on or off.

air vents —The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating.
Bottom View

NOTE: The D420 has been optimally designed to be used with the slim Media Base for docking. However, it is compatible with the D-Family D/Port and
D/Dock. With the use of the D-Family D/Port and D/Dock, all ports can be effectively utilized except for the 1394 port. If the use of this port is required, it
is recommended that you utilize the Media Base as your primary docking device.
CAUTION: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an
incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to the power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage.
NOTICE: When you disconnect the AC adapter cable from the computer, grasp the connector, not the cable itself, and pull firmly but gently to avoid
damaging the cable.
NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.
CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment,
such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.
1
battery
3
battery-bay latch release (2)
5
air vent
2
battery charge gauge
4
memory module/WLAN Mini-Card cover
6
docking device slot

memory module/WLAN Mini-Card cover —Covers the compartment that contains one memory module and the WLAN Mini-Card. For additional information,
see Adding and Replacing Parts.

battery-bay latch release —Releases the battery. See Using a Battery for instructions.

battery charge gauge —Provides information on the battery charge. For more information, see Using a Battery.

battery —When a battery is installed, you can use the computer without connecting the computer to an electrical outlet. For more information, see Using a
Battery.

docking device slot —Lets you attach your computer to a docking device. See the documentation that came with your docking device for additional
information.

air vent —The computer uses an internal fan to create airflow through the vents, which prevents the computer from overheating.
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
NOTICE: YourcomputerfeaturesDellUndock&Go™technologythatallowsyoutoundockyourcomputerwithoutgoingintostandbymode.Because
the computer may not automatically go into standby mode when it is undocked, be sure the settings in the Power Options control panel do not prohibit
the computer from going into standby mode. If you change the Power Options control panel to prohibit the computer from going into standby mode, you
greatly increase the chances of causing your battery to wear down quickly or causing your computer to overheat.
NOTE: The computer turns on the fan when the computer gets hot. Fan noise is normal and does not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.
CAUTION: Do not block, push objects into, or allow dust to accumulate in the air vents. Do not store your computer in a low-airflow environment,
such as a closed briefcase, while it is running. Restricting the airflow can damage the computer or cause a fire.

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Appendix
Dell™Latitude™D420User'sGuide
Cleaning Your Computer
Macrovision Product Notice
FCC Notice (U.S. Only)
Cleaning Your Computer

Computer, Keyboard, and Display
lUse a can of compressed air to remove dust from between the keys on the keyboard.
lMoisten a soft, lint-free cloth with either water or a display cleaner, and wipe the display until it is clean.
lMoisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water and wipe the computer and keyboard. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the touch pad and
the surrounding palm rest.

Touch Pad

1. Shut down your computer.

2. Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets.

3. Remove any installed batteries (see Replacing the Battery).

4. Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water, and wipe it gently across the surface of the touch pad. Do not allow water from the cloth to seep between the
touch pad and the surrounding palm rest.

Floppy Drive
Clean your floppy drive using a commercially available cleaning kit. These kits contain pretreated floppies to remove contaminants that accumulate during
normal operation.

CDs and DVDs
If you notice problems, such as skipping, with the playback quality of your CDs or DVDs, try cleaning the discs.

1. Hold the disc by its outer edge. You can also touch the inside edge of the center hole.

2. With a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the bottom of the disc (the unlabeled side) in a straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disc.
For stubborn dirt, try using water or a diluted solution of water and mild soap. You can also purchase commercial products that clean discs and provide
some protection from dust, fingerprints, and scratches. Cleaning products for CDs are also safe to use on DVDs.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: Before you clean your computer, disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet and remove any installed batteries. Clean your
computer with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, which may contain flammable substances.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer or display, do not spray cleaning solution directly onto the display. Only use products specifically designed for
cleaning displays, and follow the instructions that are included with the product.
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You might accidentally misalign the heads which prevents the drive from operating.
NOTICE: Always use compressed air to clean the lens in the CD/DVD drive, and follow the instructions that come with the compressed-air product.
Never touch the lens in the drive.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the surface, do not wipe in a circular motion around the disc.

Macrovision Product Notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright
protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by
Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
FCC Notice (U.S. Only)

FCC Class B
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction
manual, may cause interference with radio and television reception. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference.

2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference with radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
lReorient the receiving antenna.
lRelocate the system with respect to the receiver.
lMove the system away from the receiver.
lPlug the system into a different outlet so that the system and the receiver are on different branch circuits.
If necessary, consult a representative of Dell Inc. or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions.
The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this document in compliance with the FCC regulations:
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
NOTICE: The FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Dell Inc. could void your authority to operate this
equipment.
Product name:
Dell™Latitude™D420
Model number:
PP09S
Company name:
Dell Inc.
Worldwide Regulatory Compliance & Environmental Affairs
One Dell Way
Round Rock, TX 78682 USA
512-338-4400

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Using a Battery
Dell™Latitude™D420User'sGuide

Battery Performance
ForoptimalcomputerperformanceandtohelppreserveBIOSsettings,operateyourDell™portablecomputerwiththemainbatteryinstalledatalltimes.One
battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.
Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.
Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:
lUsing optical drives
lUsing wireless communications devices, PC Cards, ExpressCards, media memory cards, or USB devices
lUsing high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as 3D games
lRunning the computer in maximum performance mode (see Configuring Power Management Settings)
You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer (see Checking the Battery Charge). You can also set power management
options to alert you when the battery charge is low (see Configuring Power Management Settings).
Checking the Battery Charge
The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and icon, the battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery
warning provide information about the battery charge.

Dell™QuickSetBatteryMeter
If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, battery health, charge level, and charge
completion time for the battery in your computer.
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

Microsoft®Windows®Power Meter
The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar.
If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears.
Battery Performance
Configuring Power Management Settings
Checking the Battery Charge
Charging the Battery
Conserving Battery Power
Replacing the Battery
Power Management Modes
Storing a Battery
NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that
shipped with your computer.
NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer to an electrical outlet the first time you use the
computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, access the
Control Panel®Power Options, and then click the Power Meter tab.
NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on how often the battery is used and the
conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer.
NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD.
CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased
from Dell. The lithium ion battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from another computer with your computer.
CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or
environmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to
temperaturesabove65°C(149°F).Keepthebatteryawayfromchildren.Handledamagedorleakingbatterieswithextremecare.Damaged
batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.