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Dell OptiPlex SX270 User Manual
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Dell OptiPlex SX270 User Manual

Dell OptiPlex SX270 User Manual

Dell optiplex sx270 systems user's guide
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Table of Contents

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Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide
Documentation for Your Computer
Finding Information for Your Computer
Technical Specifications
System Board Components
Cleaning Your Computer

About Your Computer

Front View
Back View
Back-Panel Connectors
Inside Your Computer
Orientations
Chassis Stand
Cable Cover
Mounting Plate
Connecting the Power Adapter
Computer and Software Problems
Solving Problems
Advanced Troubleshooting
Getting Help
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
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.
Dell recommends that the original version (Gold) of Windows XP should not be installed on this platform.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

For a complete list of abbreviations and acronyms, see the "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.
© 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, OptiPlex, Inspiron, Dimension, Latitude, Dell Precision, DellNet, Dell Travellite, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Computer
Corporation; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation; Microsoft, Windows NT, MS-DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation; IBM and OS/2 are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation; Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell
Computer Corporation under license; ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Dell Computer Corporation
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 Computer Corporation
disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model: DCT
March 2003       P/N  K0125       Rev. A00

Advanced Features

LegacySelect Technology Control
Manageability
Security
Password Protection
System Setup
Booting to a USB Device
Jumper Settings
Power Button
Power Management
Hyper-Threading
Adding and Removing Parts
Removing the Computer Cover
Battery
Module Bay
Hard Drive
Memory
Microprocessor
Replacing the Computer Cover

Additional Information

Microsoft® Windows® XP Features
Glossary
CAUTION: Safety Instructions
Ergonomic Computing Habits
Regulatory Notices
Warranty and Return Policy

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Summary of Contents for Dell OptiPlex SX270

  • Page 1: Advanced Features

    Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide Documentation for Your Computer Advanced Features Finding Information for Your Computer LegacySelect Technology Control Technical Specifications Manageability System Board Components Security Cleaning Your Computer Password Protection System Setup Booting to a USB Device Jumper Settings Power Button Power Management Hyper-Threading About Your Computer Adding and Removing Parts...

  • Page 2: Regulatory Notices

    Back to Contents Page Regulatory Notices Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   FCC Notices (U.S. Only)   IC Notice (Canada Only)   CE Notice (European Union)   ENERGY STAR® Compliance   Simplified Chinese Class A Warning Notice (China Only)   EN 55022 Compliance (Czech Republic Only)   VCCI Notice (Japan Only)   MIC Notice (Republic of Korea Only)   Polish Center for Testing and Certification Notice   BSMI Notice (Taiwan Only)   NOM Information (Mexico Only)

  • Page 3: Fcc Identification Information

    Class B  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. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. 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 communications.
  • Page 4 NOTE: EN 55022 emissions requirements provide for two classifications:  Class A is for typical commercial areas.  Class B is for typical domestic areas.  RF INTERFERENCE WARNING: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio frequency (RF) interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
  • Page 5 VCCI Notice (Japan Only)  Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) as Class B information technology equipment (ITE). However, the inclusion of certain options can change the rating of some configurations to Class A. ITE, including peripherals, expansion cards, printers, input/output (I/O) devices, monitors, and so on, integrated into or connected to the system should match the electromagnetic environment classification (Class A or B) of the computer system.

  • Page 6: Class A Device

    Class A Device    Please note that this device has been approved for business purposes with regard to electromagnetic interference. If you find that this device is not suitable for your use, you may exchange it for a nonbusiness-purpose device. MIC Class A Regulatory Label  If the regulatory label includes the following marking, your computer is a Class A product:  ...
  • Page 7     BSMI Notice (Taiwan Only)  If you find a mark on the regulatory label on the bottom, side, or back panel of your computer, the following section is applicable:  ...
  • Page 8   NOM Information (Mexico Only)  The following information is provided on the device(s) described in this document in compliance with the requirements of the official Mexican standards (NOM):   Exporter: Dell Computer Corporation One Dell Way Round Rock, TX 78682 Importer: Dell Computer de México, ...
  • Page 9 Back to Contents Page  ...

  • Page 10: Warranty And Return Policy

    Back to Contents Page Warranty and Return Policy Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide  Dell Computer Corporation ("Dell") manufactures its hardware products from parts and components that are new or equivalent to new in accordance with industry-standard practices. For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Setup and Quick Reference Guide.  ...

  • Page 11: Front View

    Back to Contents Page About Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   Front View   Back View   Back-Panel Connectors   Inside Your Computer   Orientations   Chassis Stand   Cable Cover   Mounting Plate   Connecting the Power Adapter Front View     1  power button  Press this button to turn on the computer. ®...

  • Page 12: Connecting A Vga Monitor

      1  computer cover/hard-drive release  Press this button toward the cover release icon to remove the cover, or press this button toward the hard-drive button icon to release the hard drive.  back-panel connectors  The connectors for your computer. 3  power connector  The connector for the power adapter.

  • Page 13: Inside Your Computer

      Inside Your Computer   CAUTION: Before you remove the computer cover, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions."   CAUTION: To avoid electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the power adapter before removing the cover.   CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components.
  • Page 14   NOTICE: Do not place your monitor on the computer. Use a monitor stand.   NOTICE: In a high-vibration environment or when installing the computer overhead, use the optional wall-mount bracket instead of the chassis stand. To order this bracket, contact Dell.

  • Page 15: Attaching The Cable Cover

    3  mounting slot (for vertical position, upright on a desktop)   4  mounting slot (for horizontal position hanging under a desktop)  NOTE: The stand must not be used in the horizontal position on a desktop. Place the computer directly on a desktop.   5  mounting slot (for vertical position, hanging under a surface)  ...

  • Page 16: Removing The Cable Cover

      1  bottom piece of the cable cover 2  security cable slot 3  top piece of the cable cover 1.  Attach all the cables to the back panel. 2.  To attach the two-piece cable cover, hold the bottom piece of the cable cover and align the four tabs with the four slots on the computer's back panel. 3.
  • Page 17 1.  If a security device is installed in the security cable slot, remove the device. 2.  Grasp the top piece of the cable cover and slide it to the left until it stops, and then lift it up and away. 3.
  • Page 18   1  release lever tab 2  mounting plate slot 3  screw holes (4) 4  solid surface with a 1-inch (2.5 cm) minimum thickness     CAUTION: Attach the mounting plate to a solid surface capable of supporting 40 lbs (18.1 kg) hanging weight. 1.

  • Page 19: Connecting The Power Adapter

    2.  While still firmly holding the computer, slide the computer and stand approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm), until it stops. 3.  Lower the computer and stand away from the mounting plate. Connecting the Power Adapter 1.  Connect the power adapter to the connector on the back of the computer. In order for the connection to be secure, verify that the latch engages completely (a click will be heard or felt).

  • Page 20: Dell Diagnostics

    Back to Contents Page Advanced Troubleshooting Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   Dell Diagnostics   Drivers   Reinstalling Microsoft® Windows® XP   Reinstalling Microsoft Windows 2000   Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Dell Diagnostics When to Use the Dell Diagnostics  If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems"...

  • Page 21: Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

    4.  Select the IDE CD-ROM Device option from the CD boot menu. 5.  Select the Boot from CD-ROM option from the menu that appears. 6.  Type 1 to start the ResourceCD menu. 7.  Type 2 to start the Dell Diagnostics. 8.

  • Page 22: Identifying Drivers

    Identifying Drivers  If you experience a problem with any device, identify whether the driver is the source of your problem and, if necessary, update the driver. Windows XP 1.  Click the Start button and click Control Panel. 2.  Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance. 3.

  • Page 23: Reinstalling Microsoft Windows Xp

     To view a list of all available drivers for your computer, click Drivers in the Topic drop-down menu.  To access the help files on the Drivers and Utilities CD, click the question mark button or the Help link at the top of the screen.  ...
  • Page 24 6.  When the Regional and Language Options screen appears, select the settings for your location, and then click Next. 7.  Enter your name and organization (optional) in the Personalize Your Software screen and click Next. 8.  If you are reinstalling Windows XP Home Edition, at the What's your computer's name window, enter a name for your computer (or accept the name provided) and click Next.

  • Page 25: Resolving Software And Hardware Incompatibilities

    19. Reinstall your virus protection software.    Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities  If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use Device Manager or the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility. ®...

  • Page 26: Legacyselect Technology Control

    FBack to Contents Page Advanced Features Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   LegacySelect Technology Control   Manageability   Security   Password Protection   System Setup   Booting to a USB Device   Jumper Settings   Power Button   Power Management   Hyper-Threading LegacySelect Technology Control  LegacySelect technology control offers legacy-full, legacy-reduced, or legacy-free solutions based on common platforms, hard-drive images, and help desk procedures. Control is provided to the administrator through system setup, Dell OpenManage™ IT Assistant, or Dell™ custom factory integration.

  • Page 27: Chassis Intrusion Detection

    Security Chassis Intrusion Detection   NOTE: When the setup password is enabled, you must know the setup password before you can reset the Chassis Intrusion setting.  This feature detects that the chassis was opened and alerts the user. To change the Chassis Intrusion setting:  Enter system setup.

  • Page 28: Typing Your System Password

     Enter system setup and verify that Password Status is set to Unlocked. 2.  Highlight System Password, and then press the left- or right-arrow key.  The option heading changes to Enter Password, followed by an empty 32-character field in square brackets. 3.

  • Page 29: Setup Password

    6.  Exit system setup. Setup Password Option Settings  Enabled — Does not allow assignment of setup passwords; users must enter a setup password to make changes to system setup  Not Enabled — Allows assignment of setup passwords; password feature is enabled but no password is assigned Assigning a Setup Password  The setup password can be the same as the system password.

  • Page 30: System Setup

     Enter system setup and verify that Setup Password is set to Disabled. 6.  Exit system setup.   CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." 7.  Remove the computer cover.  ...

  • Page 31: Boot Sequence

      Cycles through the options in a field. In many fields, you can also type the appropriate value.   Scrolls through help information.   Enters the selected field's popup options menu.  spacebar or In the selected field's popup options menu, cycles through the options in a field.

  • Page 32: Changing Boot Sequence For Future Boots

    1.  Turn on or restart your computer. 2.  When <F12> = Boot Menu appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press <F12> to access the boot menu.  If you wait too long and the Windows logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the Start menu and try again.
  • Page 33  NOTE: This is effective when the USB Controller is set to On.  On — USB emulation continues when control is passed to the operating system.  Off — USB emulation ends when control is passed to the operating system.  No BOOT — USB emulation continues, but USB boot devices are disabled.  USB Controller —...

  • Page 34: Booting To A Usb Device

    The acoustics mode field may contain the following options:  Quiet — The hard drive operates in its quietest setting.  Performance — The hard drive operates at its maximum speed.  NOTE: Switching to Performance mode may cause the drive to be noisier, but its performance is not affected.  Bypass (default) —...

  • Page 35: Power Button

    RTCRST   Real-time clock reset    jumpered     unjumpered Power Button   NOTICE: To turn off your computer, perform an orderly computer shutdown when possible.  You can use the ACPI feature to configure the function of the Microsoft Windows 2000, and Windows XP operating systems. Power Button Functions With ACPI Enabled  ...
  • Page 36  Standby–In this sleep state, power is reduced or turned off for most components, including the cooling fans. However, system memory remains active.  This state is not supported by Windows NT 4.0.   NOTE: All components installed in the computer must support this feature and have the appropriate drivers loaded to enter standby. For more information, see the manufacturer's documentation for each component.
  • Page 37 Back to Contents Page Battery Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions."   CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components.
  • Page 38 10.  Replace the cable cover (if used).   NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer. 11.  Connect your computer to the adapter cable and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.  After you replace the cover, the chassis intrusion detector, if enabled, causes the following message to appear on the screen at the next computer start-up:  ...

  • Page 39: Cleaning Your Computer

    Back to Contents Page Cleaning Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor   Mouse   Floppy Drive   CDs and DVDs   CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, read the safety instructions in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." Computer, Keyboard, and Monitor  ...
  • Page 40 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.

  • Page 41: Module Bay

    Back to Contents Page Module Bay Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   Installing a Device When Your Computer Is Turned Off   Installing a Device When Your Computer Is Running Microsoft Windows® XP   Installing a Device When Your Computer Is Running Windows 2000  You can install a Dell™ portable device such as a floppy drive, CD/DVD drive or second hard drive in the module bay.  Your Dell computer ships with either a floppy drive or an airbay (filler blank) installed in the module bay.  ...
  • Page 42   1  module bay 2  airbay 3  module eject button 3.  Slide the device into the module bay. 4.  If desired, you may lock the device in the module bay by moving the module locking switch to the locked position. 5.
  • Page 43 6.  If desired, you may lock the device in the module bay by moving the module locking switch to the locked position. 7.  Replace the hard-drive door. 8.  When the operating system recognizes the new device, click Close. Back to Contents Page  ...

  • Page 44: Replacing The Computer Cover

    Back to Contents Page Replacing the Computer Cover Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide 1.  Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer. 2.  Replace the cover: a.  Lower and align the cover with the two lines on the metal computer frame. a.

  • Page 45: Removing The Computer Cover

    Back to Contents Page Removing the Computer Cover Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions."   CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components.

  • Page 46: Ergonomic Computing Habits

    Back to Contents Page Ergonomic Computing Habits Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide    CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.   CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain.  For comfort and efficiency, observe the following ergonomic guidelines when setting up and using your computer workstation:  Position your computer so that the monitor and keyboard are directly in front of you as you work.
  • Page 47 Switzerland: International Organization for Standardization, 1992. Back to Contents Page  ...

  • Page 48: Finding Information For Your Computer

    Back to Contents Page Finding Information for Your Computer Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   What are you looking for? Find It Here  A diagnostic program for my  Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD) computer  Drivers for my computer  Documentation and drivers are already installed on your computer when shipped from Dell. You can use the CD  My computer documentation reinstall drivers, run the...
  • Page 49 3.  Click the topic that describes your problem. 4.  Follow the instructions on the screen.  How to reinstall my operating  Operating System CD system  After you reinstall your operating system using the Operating System Reinstallation CD, use the Drivers and Utilities CD to reinstall drivers for the devices that came with your computer.

  • Page 50: Getting Help

    Back to Contents Page Getting Help Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   Technical Assistance   Problems With Your Order   Product Information   Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit   Before You Call   Contacting Dell Technical Assistance  If you need help with a technical problem, Dell is ready to assist you.  ...

  • Page 51: Autotech Service

     Electronic Information Service  info@dell.com AutoTech Service  Dell's automated technical support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and desktop computers.  When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your questions.  The AutoTech service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also access this service through the technical support service. For the telephone ...

  • Page 52: Contacting Dell

    Diagnostics Checklist  Name:  Date:  Address:  Phone number:  Service Tag (bar code on the back of the computer):  Express Service Code:  Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):  Operating system and version:  Devices:  Expansion cards:  Are you connected to a network? Yes No  Network, version, and network adapter:  Programs and versions:  See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system's start-up files.
  • Page 53 Home/Small Business Customer Care  01 795 67603 City Code: 1 Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care  0660 8056 Home/Small Business Technical Support  01 795 67604 Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support  0660 8779 Switchboard  01 491 04 0 Bahamas General Support  toll-free: 1-866-278-6818 Barbados General Support  1-800-534-3066 Belgium (Brussels) Website: support.euro.dell.com     E-mail: tech_be@dell.com    ...
  • Page 54 Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts  toll-free: 800 858 2621 Colombia General Support  980-9-15-3978 Costa Rica General Support  0800-012-0435 Czech Republic (Prague) Website: support.euro.dell.com     E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com     International Access Code: 00 Technical Support  02 22 83 27 27 Country Code: 420 Customer Care  02 22 83 27 11  02 22 83 27 14 City Code: 2...
  • Page 55 Grenada General Support  toll-free: 1-866-540-3355 Guatemala General Support  1-800-999-0136 Guyana General Support  toll-free: 1-877-270-4609 Hong Kong Technical Support (Dimension™ and Inspiron™)  296 93188 Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell Precision™)  296 93191 International Access Code: Customer Service (non-technical, post-sales issues)  800 93 8291 Transaction Sales  toll-free: 800 96 4109 Country Code: 852 Large Corporate Accounts HK  toll-free: 800 96 4108 Large Corporate Accounts GCP HK  toll-free: 800 90 3708 India Technical Support...
  • Page 56  2194-6202 City Code: 2 Switchboard  2194-6000 Latin America Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)  512 728-4093 Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)  512 728-3619 Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service) (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)  512 728-3883 Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)  512 728-4397 SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)  512 728-4600  or 512 728-3772 Luxembourg...
  • Page 57 Home and Small Business  0800 446 255 Country Code: 64 Government and Business  0800 444 617 Sales  0800 441 567  0800 441 566 Nicaragua General Support  001-800-220-1006 Norway (Lysaker) Website: support.euro.dell.com    E-mail Support (portable computers):    International Access Code: 00 nor_nbk_support@dell.com Country Code: 47 E-mail Support (desktop computers):   ...
  • Page 58  902 118 539 Corporate      Technical Support  902 100 130 Customer Care  902 118 546 Switchboard  91 722 92 00  91 722 95 83 Sweden (Upplands Vasby) Website: support.euro.dell.com    E-mail: swe_support@dell.com    International Access Code: 00 E-mail Support for Latitude and Inspiron:    Swe-nbk_kats@dell.com Country Code: 46 E-mail Support for OptiPlex: Swe_kats@dell.com   ...
  • Page 59 Consumer (Home and Home Office)   Technical Support  toll-free: 1-800-624-9896 Country Code: 1 Customer Service  toll-free: 1-800-624-9897 DellNet™ Service and Support  toll-free: 1-877-Dellnet  (1-877-335-5638) Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers  toll-free: 1-800-695-8133 Financial Services website: www.dellfinancialservices.com  Financial Services (lease/loans)  toll-free: 1-877-577-3355 Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA])  toll-free: 1-800-283-2210 Business   Customer Service and Technical Support  toll-free: 1-800-822-8965 Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers  toll-free: 1-800-695-8133...
  • Page 60 Back to Contents Page Glossary Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide A   B   C   D   E   F   G   H   I   K   L   M   N   O   P   R   S   T   U   V   W   X   Z     Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer. AC —...
  • Page 61 CD drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read data from CDs. CD player — The software used to play music CDs. The CD player displays a window with buttons that you use to play a CD. CD-R — CD recordable —...
  • Page 62 EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives and CD drives. EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical interference caused by electromagnetic radiation. ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency requirements that decrease the overall consumption of electricity. EPP —...
  • Page 63 IC — Industry Canada — The Canadian regulatory body responsible for regulating emissions from electronic equipment, much as the FCC does in the United States. IC — integrated circuit — A semiconductor wafer, or chip, on which thousands or millions of tiny electronic components are fabricated for use in computer, audio, and video equipment.
  • Page 64 modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, and internal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail. module bay —...
  • Page 65 down your computer. readme file — A text file included with a software package or hardware product. Typically, readme files provide installation information and describe new product enhancements or corrections that have not yet been documented. read-Only — Data and/or files you can view but cannot edit or delete. A file can have read-only status if:  It resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
  • Page 66 TAPI — telephony application programming interface — Enables Windows programs to operate with a wide variety of telephony devices, including voice, data, fax, and video. text editor — A program used to create and edit files that contain only text; for example, Windows Notepad uses a text editor. Text editors do not usually provide word wrap or formatting functionality (the option to underline, change fonts, and so on).
  • Page 67  ...

  • Page 68: Hard Drive

    Back to Contents Page Hard Drive Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions."   CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the power supply before removing the hard drive.  ...
  • Page 69 12.  If your replacement drive is not attached to a metal sled: a.  While holding the drive that you are replacing, remove the screws that hold the drive to the sled. b.  Attach the replacement drive to the sled and replace the screws as shown in the illustration.  ...
  • Page 70   1  drive connector 2  drive cable 15.  Slide the drive into the drive bay and lower the hard-drive door to lock into place. 16.  Replace the cable cover (if used). 17.  Attach the computer to the mounting plate (if used).  ...

  • Page 71: Memory Installation Guidelines

    Back to Contents Page Memory Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   Memory Installation Guidelines   Installing Memory   Removing Memory Memory Installation Guidelines  For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, look under "Memory" in the Technical Specifications section.   NOTICE: Before you install new memory modules, download the most recent BIOS for your computer from the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.
  • Page 72 6.  Open the computer cover.   NOTICE: 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 any static electricity that could harm internal components. 7.

  • Page 73: Removing Memory

    14.  The computer detects that the new memory does not match the existing configuration information and generates the following message:   The amount of system memory has changed. Strike the F1 key to continue, F2 to run the setup utility 15.
  • Page 74 Back to Contents Page Microprocessor Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   CAUTION: Before you begin this procedure, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions."   CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components.
  • Page 75 11.  Remove the heat sink. a.  Remove the two securing brackets, if present, by pressing the tabs together and lifting the brackets up.     1  tabs (two on each securing bracket) 2  securing brackets (2) b.  Remove the memory module (see "Removing Memory") closest to the heat sink.
  • Page 76     1  release lever 2  microprocessor 3  socket   NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.   NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you unpack the microprocessor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the microprocessor. 13.
  • Page 77   NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.  If you are installing a microprocessor replacement kit from Dell, return the microprocessor to Dell in the same package in which your replacement kit was sent.
  • Page 78 Back to Contents Page  CAUTION: Safety Instructions   Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   General   When Using Your Computer    When Working Inside Your Computer   Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge   Ergonomic Computing Habits   Battery Disposal  Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety and to help protect your computer and working environment from potential damage.

  • Page 79: When Working Inside Your Computer

     A fixed-voltage power supply — Computers with a fixed-voltage power supply do not have a voltage selection switch on the back panel and ¡ operate at only one voltage (see the regulatory label on the outside of the computer for its operating voltage).  An auto-sensing voltage circuit —...

  • Page 80: Battery Disposal

     Handle all electrostatic sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floor pads and workbench pads. Ergonomic Computing Habits   CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.   CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may result in eye strain.  For comfort and efficiency, observe the ergonomic guidelines in "Ergonomic Computing Habits"...
  • Page 81 Back to Contents Page Solving Problems Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   Beep Codes   Keyboard Problems   Diagnostic Lights   Memory Problems   System Lights   Mouse Problems   Battery Problems   Network Problems   Drive Problems   Power Problems   Repairing a Wet Computer   Printer Problems   Dropped or Damaged Computer   Serial or Parallel Device Problems   E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems   Sound and Speaker Problems   Error Messages...

  • Page 82: Diagnostic Lights

      Diagnostic Lights  To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "A," "B," "C," and "D" on the back panel. The lights can be yellow or green. When the computer starts normally, the patterns or codes on the lights change as the boot process completes. If the POST portion of system boot completes successfully, all four lights display solid green.

  • Page 83: System Lights

    yellow reinstall one memory module (if the computer supports a single module), and then restart green the computer. If the computer starts normally, move the memory module to a different connector and restart the computer. Continue until you have identified a faulty connector or reinstalled all modules without error.

  • Page 84: Drive Problems

    Replace the battery — If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery. If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell.

  • Page 85: Repairing A Wet Computer

    Clean the disc — Use a commercially available cleaning kit. Problems writing to a CD-RW drive   Close other programs — The CD-RW drive must receive a steady stream of data when writing. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before writing to the CD-RW.

  • Page 86: Dropped Or Damaged Computer

    Dropped or Damaged Computer   CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the steps in "CAUTION: Safety Instructions."   Check the card and cable connections — 1.  Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their electrical outlets, wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then open the computer cover.
  • Page 87 "Hard drive problems" for troubleshooting suggestions. Bad command or file name — Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, have put spaces in the proper place, and have used the correct pathname. Bad error-correction code (ECC) on disk read — The floppy or hard drive controller detected an uncorrectable read error.

  • Page 88: General Problems

    troubleshooting suggestions. Memory tests terminated by keystroke — A keystroke interrupted the memory test. Restart the computer to rerun the test. No boot device available — The computer cannot find the floppy disk or hard drive.  If the floppy drive is your boot device, ensure that a bootable floppy disk is in the drive.  If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly seated, and partitioned as a boot device.

  • Page 89: A Program Stops Responding

    to turn on the computer. You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. A program stops responding   End the program —   ® Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT® 1.  Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously. 2.

  • Page 90: Memory Problems

    access to technical support through e-mail. Call Dell — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell Support website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance. General hardware problems  If your computer exhibits one or more of the following symptoms, a device conflict may exist:  Your computer locks up, particularly while using a specific device.

  • Page 91: Mouse Problems

    Mouse Problems  Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.   Restart the computer — 1.  Simultaneously press <Ctrl><Esc> to display the Start menu. 2.  Type u, press the keyboard arrow keys to highlight Shut down or Turn Off, and then press <Enter>. 3.

  • Page 92: Printer Problems

     Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.   Adjust the Power Properties — Your computer may be in standby or hibernate mode. For information on power conservation modes, see your operating system documentation. If the power light is green and the computer is not responding — "Diagnostic Lights."...

  • Page 93: Serial Or Parallel Device Problems

    Windows 98 1.  Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers.  If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon. 2.  Click Properties, and then select the Details tab. For a parallel printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port).

  • Page 94: System Board Problems

    Check for interrupt request conflicts — "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities." No sound from headphones   Check the headphone cable connection — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector. Adjust the Windows volume control — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
  • Page 95 Check the monitor settings — See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test. Move the subwoofer away from the monitor — If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is at least 60 cm  (2 ft) away from the monitor.  Move the monitor away from external power sources — Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear "shaky."...

  • Page 96: Technical Specifications

    Back to Contents Page Technical Specifications Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   Microprocessor   Ports   Memory   Key Combinations   Computer Information   Controls and Lights   Audio   Power   Video   Physical   Expansion Bus   Environmental   Drives   Microprocessor  Microprocessor type ® ®  Intel® Pentium 4 and Celeron microprocessors. Design provides for future processor upgrades. Supported processor upgrades are available from Dell.
  • Page 97  Video  DVI-I connector on the back I/O panel  Integrated network adapter  RJ45 connector on the back I/O panel; 10/100/1000  PS/2-style keyboard  6-pin mini-DIN on the back I/O panel  PS/2-compatible mouse  6-pin mini-DIN on the back I/O panel  USB  four USB 2.0-compliant connectors on the back I/O panel;...
  • Page 98  Storage  0.5 G at 3 to 200 Hz at 1 octave/min  Maximum shock:  Operating  bottom half-sine pulse with a change in velocity of 20 inches/sec (50.8 cm/sec)  Storage  27-G faired square wave with a velocity change of 200 inches/sec (508 cm/sec)  Altitude:  Operating  –16 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft)

  • Page 99: System Board Components

    Back to Contents Page System Board Components Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide      fan shroud power connector (FAN2)  system board speaker (SPEAKER)  speaker connector (SPEAKER)  memory modules (DIMM_A and DIMM_B)  RTC reset jumper (RTCRST)  password jumper (PSWD)  chassis intrusion switch power connector (INTRUDER)  standby power indicator (12V_PWR)  battery (BATTERY) 10  fan shroud power connector (FAN1)

  • Page 100: Transferring Information To A New Computer

    Back to Contents Page Microsoft® Windows® XP Features Dell™ OptiPlex™ SX270 Systems User's Guide   Transferring Information to a New Computer   Using Windows® XP System Restore   User Accounts and Fast User Switching   Setting Up a Home and Office Network Transferring Information to a New Computer ®  ®  The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides a Files and Settings Transfer wizard to move data from the source computer to the new computer.

  • Page 101: Creating A Restore Point

    Creating a Restore Point 1.  Click the Start button and click Help and Support. 2.  Click System Restore. 3.  Follow the instructions on the screen. Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State   NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.

  • Page 102: Fast User Switching

     Limited — You can change only your own personal settings, such as your password. You cannot install programs or use the Internet. 6.  Click Create Account. Fast User Switching   NOTE: Fast User Switching is unavailable if your computer is running Windows XP Professional and is a member of a computer domain, or if your computer has less than 128 MB of memory.

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