Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Finding Information About Your Computer Setting Up Your Computer Using the Display Using the Keyboard and Touchpad Using a Battery Using Multimedia Using ExpressCards Using the Memory Card Reader Setting Up and Using Networks Securing Your Computer Troubleshooting Adding and Replacing Parts Dell™ QuickSet Features Traveling With Your Computer Getting Help Specifications Appendix Glossary Notes, Notices, and Cautions NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that help
Back to Contents Page About Your Computer Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Determining Your Computer's Configuration Front View Left Side View Right Side View Back View Bottom View Determining Your Computer's Configuration Based on selections that you made when purchasing your computer, your computer has one of several different video controller configurations. To determine your computer's video controller configuration: 1. Click Start , and then click Help and Support. 2.
camera — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. Based on configuration selections you made when ordering your computer, your computer may not include a camera. display latch — Keeps the display closed. display — For more information about your display, see Using the Display. power button — Press the power button to turn on the computer or exit a power management mode (see Configuring Power Management Settings).
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 amber: The battery charge is low. Solid amber: The battery charge is critically low. touch pad — Provides the functionality of a mouse (see Touch Pad). touch pad buttons — Use these buttons much like the buttons on a mouse when you use the touch pad to move the cursor on the display (see Touch Pad).
1 security cable slot 2 wireless switch 3 Wi-Fi Catcher light 4 air vents 5 audio connectors 6 ExpressCard slot security cable slot — Lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer (see Security Cable Lock). wireless switch — When enabled through Dell QuickSet, this switch can scan for a wireless local area network (WLAN) in your vicinity.
Right Side View 1 battery status light 2 hard drive activity light 3 power light 4 optical drive 5 eject button 6 8-in-1 memory card reader 7 IEEE 1394 connector 8 video connector (VGA) 9 network connector (RJ-45) 10 USB connectors (2) optical drive — For more information about the optical drive, see Using Multimedia. eject button — Press the eject button to open the optical drive.
3 AC adapter connector 5 modem connector (RJ-11) 4 battery S-video TV-out connector Connects your computer to a TV. Also connects digital audio-capable devices using the TV/digital audio adapter cable. USB connectors Connect USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. AC adapter connector — Attaches an AC adapter to the computer. The AC adapter converts AC power to the DC power required by the computer. You can connect the AC adapter with your computer turned on or off.
3 consumer IR 4 right speaker 5 wireless mini card compartment 6 battery 7 battery charge/health gauge 8 battery-bay latch releases (2) 9 fan 10 hard drive left speaker — To adjust the volume of the integrated speaker, press the volume control buttons or the mute button. memory module/coin-cell battery compartment — Compartment that contains the DIMM B memory module and the coin-cell battery. For additional information, see Adding and Replacing Parts.
Back to Contents Page Appendix Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Using the System Setup Program Cleaning Your Computer Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S. Only) FCC Notice (U.S. Only) Macrovision Product Notice Using the System Setup Program NOTE: Your operating system may automatically configure most of the options available in system setup, thus overriding options that you set through system setup. An exception is the External Hot Key option, which you can disable or enable only through system setup.
NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see Performing a One-Time Boot. The Boot Order page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your computer, including but not limited to the following: l Diskette Drive l Internal HDD l USB Storage Device l CD/DVD/CD-RW drive l Modular bay HDD NOTE: Only devices that are preceded by a number are bootable.
l Wipe the keyboard, computer, and monitor plastics with a soft cleaning cloth moistened with a solution of three parts water and one part dishwashing detergent. Do not soak the cloth or let water drip inside your computer or keyboard. Touch Pad 1. Shut down and turn off your computer (see Turning Off Your Computer). 2. Disconnect any attached devices from the computer and from their electrical outlets. 3. Remove any installed batteries (see Battery Performance). 4.
Technician assisted technical support requires the cooperation and participation of the customer in the troubleshooting process and provides for restoration of the operating system, software programs, and hardware drivers to the original default configuration as shipped from Dell, as well as the verification of appropriate functionality of the computer and all Dell-installed hardware. In addition to this technician assisted technical support, online technical support is available at support.dell.com.
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.
Back to Contents Page Using a Battery Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Battery Performance Checking the Battery Charge Conserving Battery Power Charging the Battery Replacing the Battery Storing a Battery Battery Performance 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.
l Press The Battery Meter displays the status, battery health, charge level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer. For more information about QuickSet, right-click the QuickSet icon, and then click Help. Microsoft® Windows® Battery Meter The battery meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the battery meter, double-click the icon in the notification area.
or l Click the icon in the notification area, click Power Options, and then select a plan in the Select a power plan window. Using the Sleep Power State Rather than shutting down your portable computer, use the Sleep power state to conserve power. Sleep automatically saves your work to your hard drive, and then returns you to your previous work session without restarting your computer. NOTICE: If your computer loses AC and battery power while in Sleep state, it may lose data.
1 battery 2 battery release latches (2) To replace the battery, follow the removal procedure in reverse order. Storing a Battery Remove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery discharges during prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully (see Charging the Battery) before you use it.
Back to Contents Page Using the Memory Card Reader Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Memory Card Blanks Installing a Memory Card Removing a Memory Card or Blank The memory card reader provides a fast and convenient way to view and share digital photos, music, and videos stored on a memory card. NOTE: A memory card is not a bootable device.
Removing a Memory Card or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTICE: Use the memory card configuration utility (click the icon in the notification area) to select a card and stop it from functioning before you remove it from the computer. If you do not stop the card in the configuration utility, you could lose data. Press the card into the slot to release it from the card reader.
Back to Contents Page Using ExpressCards Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual ExpressCard Blanks Installing an ExpressCard Removing an ExpressCard or Blank ExpressCards provide additional memory, wired and wireless communications, multimedia and security features. For example, you can add an ExpressCard to make wireless wide area network (WWAN) connectivity available on your computer.
1 slot 2 ExpressCard The computer recognizes the ExpressCard and automatically loads the appropriate device driver. If the configuration program tells you to load the manufacturer's drivers, use the media that came with the ExpressCard. Removing an ExpressCard or Blank CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Press the latch and remove the card or blank.
Back to Contents Page Getting Help Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Obtaining Assistance Problems With Your Order Product Information Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Before You Call Contacting Dell Obtaining Assistance CAUTION: If you need to remove the computer cover, first disconnect the computer power and modem cables from all electrical outlets. If you experience a problem with your computer, you can complete the following steps to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem: 1.
www.dell.ca (Canada only) You can access Dell Support through the following websites and e-mail addresses: l Dell Support websites support.dell.com support.jp.dell.com (Japan only) support.euro.dell.com (Europe only) l Dell Support e-mail addresses mobile_support@us.dell.com support@us.dell.com la-techsupport@dell.com (Latin America and Caribbean countries only) apsupport@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only) l Dell Marketing and Sales e-mail addresses apmarketing@dell.
4. Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (power cables, software floppy disks, guides, and so on) if the return is for credit. 5. Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing materials. You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during shipment to Dell. Collect On Delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted.
Back to Contents Page Using the Display Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Adjusting Brightness Switching the Video Image From Your Computer Display To a Projector Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate Adjusting Brightness When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the display brightness to the lowest comfortable level. l Press and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).
Back to Contents Page Finding Information Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual NOTE: Some features may be optional and may not ship with your computer. Some features may not be available in certain countries. NOTE: Additional information may ship with your computer.
l l l l l l l l l l Solutions — Troubleshooting hints and tips, articles from technicians, online courses, and frequently asked questions Community — Online discussion with other Dell customers Upgrades — Upgrade information for components, such as the memory, hard drive, and operating system Customer Care — Contact information, service call and order status, and warranty and repair information Service and support — Service call status, support history, service contract, and online discussions with suppor
Back to Contents Page Glossary Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Terms in this Glossary are provided for informational purposes only and may or may not describe features included with your particular computer. A AC — alternating current — The form of electricity that powers your computer when you plug the AC adapter power cable in to an electrical outlet.
CD-RW — CD rewritable — A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a CD-RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). CD-RW drive — A drive that can read CDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs. You can write to CD-RW discs multiple times, but you can write to CD-R discs only once. CD-RW/DVD drive — A drive, sometimes referred to as a combo drive, that can read CDs and DVDs and write to CD-RW (rewritable CDs) and CD-R (recordable CDs) discs.
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 — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector design that provides bidirectional data transmission. ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of static electricity.
megahertz (MHz), gigahertz (GHz), or terahertz (THz). I 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. IDE — integrated device electronics — An interface for mass storage devices in which the controller is integrated into the hard drive or CD drive. IEEE 1394 — Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.
memory module — A small circuit board containing memory chips, which connects to the system board. MHz — megahertz — A measure of frequency that equals 1 million cycles per second. The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in MHz. Mini PCI — A standard for integrated peripheral devices with an emphasis on communications such as modems and NICs. A Mini PCI card is a small external card that is functionally equivalent to a standard PCI expansion card.
R RAID — redundant array of independent disks — A method of providing data redundancy. Some common implementations of RAID include RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, and RAID 50. RAM — random-access memory — The primary temporary storage area for program instructions and data. Any information stored in RAM is lost when you shut down your computer. readme file — A text file included with a software package or hardware product.
SVGA — super-video graphics array — A video standard for video cards and controllers. Typical SVGA resolutions are 800 x 600 and 1024 x 768. The number of colors and resolution that a program displays depends on the capabilities of the monitor, the video controller and its drivers, and the amount of video memory installed in the computer. S-video TV-out — A connector used to attach a TV or digital audio device to the computer.
W — watt — The measurement of electrical power. One W is 1 ampere of current flowing at 1 volt. WHr — watt-hour — A unit of measure commonly used to indicate the approximate capacity of a battery. For example, a 66-WHr battery can supply 66 W of power for 1 hour or 33 W for 2 hours. wallpaper — The background pattern or picture on the Windows desktop. Change your wallpaper through the Windows Control Panel. You can also scan in your favorite picture and make it wallpaper. WLAN — wireless local area network.
Back to Contents Page Using the Keyboard and Touchpad Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Numeric Keypad Key Combinations Touch Pad Numeric Keypad The numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on an external keyboard. Each key on the keypad has multiple functions. The keypad numbers and symbols are marked in blue on the right of the keypad keys. To type a number or symbol, hold down and press the desired key. l To enable the keypad, press .
Microsoft® Windows® Logo Key Functions Windows logo key and Minimizes all open windows. Windows logo key and Restores all minimized windows. This key combination functions as a toggle to restore minimized windows following the use of the Windows logo key and combination. Windows logo key and Starts Windows Explorer. Windows logo key and Opens the Run dialog box. Windows logo key and Opens the Search Results dialog box.
, and then click Control Panel. 1. Click Start 2. Click Hardware and Sound. 3. Click Keyboard. 4. In the Mouse Properties window: 5. l Click the Device Select tab to disable the touch pad. l Click the Touch Pad tab to adjust touch pad settings. Click OK to save the settings and close the window.
Back to Contents Page Using Multimedia Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Playing Media Playing Media Using Dell Travel Remote Copying CD and DVD Media Adjusting the Volume Adjusting the Picture Using Dell MediaDirect™ Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device Playing Media NOTICE: Do not press down on the optical drive tray when you open or close it. Keep the tray closed when you are not usinmg the drive. NOTICE: Do not move the computer while playing media. 1.
Play Fast forward Pause Fast reverse Advance a single frame while in pause mode Go to the next title or chapter Continuously play the current title or chapter Go to the previous title or chapter Eject For more information on playing media, click Help on the media player (if available). Playing Media Using Dell Travel Remote The Dell Travel Remote is designed to control Dell Media Direct and Windows Vista® Media Center. It can work only with specified computers.
This section applies only to computers that have a DVD+/-RW drive. NOTE: Ensure that you observe all copyright laws when copying media. NOTE: The types of optical drives offered by Dell may vary by country. The following instructions explain how to make an exact copy of a CD or DVD using Roxio Creator. You can also use Roxio Creator for other purposes, such as creating music CDs from audio files stored on your computer or backing up important data. For help, open Roxio Creator, and then press .
MB of the blank space to finalize the recording. l Use CD-Rs to burn music CDs that you want to play in regular stereos. CD-RWs do not play in most home or car stereos. l Music MP3 files can be played only on MP3 players or on computers that have MP3 software installed. l l l l Use a blank CD-RW to practice CD recording until you are familiar with CD recording techniques. If you make a mistake, you can erase the data on the CD-RW and try again.
NOTE: You cannot reinstall Dell MediaDirect if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive. You need the installation software to reinstall Dell MediaDirect. Contact Dell for assistance (see Contacting Dell). For more information on using Dell MediaDirect, use the Help menu in the Dell MediaDirect application. Connecting Your Computer to a TV or Audio Device NOTE: Video and audio cables for connecting your computer to a TV or other audio device may not be included with your computer.
1 audio connector 1 standard S-video cable 1. 2 S-video TV-out connector 2 standard audio cable Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. NOTE: If your TV or audio device supports S-video but not S/PDIF digital audio, you can connect an S-video cable directly to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer (without the TV/digital audio adapter cable). 2. Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the computer. 3.
1 composite video adapter 3 S/PDIF digital audio cable 2 S-video cable 1. Turn off the computer and the TV and/or the audio device that you want to connect. 2. Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3. Plug one end of the S-video cable into the S-video output connector on the composite video adapter. 1 composite video adapter 2 S-video cable 4. Plug the other end of the S-video cable into the S-video input connector on the TV. 5.
1 composite video adapter 3 standard audio cable 2 composite video cable 1. Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2. Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3. Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video- output connector on the composite video adapter. 1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable 4.
1 composite video adapter 3 standard audio cable 2 composite video cable 1. Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2. Connect the composite video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer. 3. Plug one end of the composite video cable into the composite video-input connector on the composite video adapter. 1 composite video adapter 2 composite video cable 4.
1 component video adapter 3 standard audio cable 2 component video cable 1. Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2. Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on your computer. 3. Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the corresponding adapter ports.
1 component video adapter 3 standard audio cable 2 component video cable 1. Turn off the computer and the TV and/or audio device that you want to connect. 2. Connect the component video adapter to the S-video TV-out connector on the computer. 3. Plug all three ends of the component video cable into the component video-output connectors on the component video adapter. Make sure that the red, green, and blue colors of the cable match the corresponding adapter ports.
5. Click Close. 6. Click OK. Enabling the Display Settings for a TV NOTE: To ensure that the display options appear correctly, connect the TV to the computer before you enable the display settings. 1. Click Start , click Control Panel, and then click Appearance and Personalization. 2. Under Personalization, click Adjust Screen Resolution. The Display Properties window appears. 3. Click Advanced. 4. Click the tab for your video card.
Back to Contents Page Adding and Replacing Parts Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Before You Begin Memory Hard Drive Subscriber Identity Module Optical Drive Wireless Mini Cards Hinge Cover Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology Keyboard Coin-Cell Battery Before You Begin This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer.
1. Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched. 2. Turn off your computer (see Turning Off Your Computer). NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer, and then unplug it from the network wall jack. 3. Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer. 4. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
1 hard drive 2 screws (4) NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging (see "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide). 3. Slide the hard drive out of the computer. Replacing the Hard Drive 1. Remove the new drive from its packaging. Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive. NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Removing the Optical Drive 1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin. 2. Turn the computer over. 3. Remove the locking screw from the optical drive. 4. Using a plastic scribe, push the notch to release the optical drive from the bay. 5. Slide the optical drive out of the bay. 1 optical drive 3 locking screw 2 notch Replacing the Optical Drive 1.
1 hinge cover 2 scribe Replacing the Hinge Cover 1. Insert the left edge of the hinge cover. 2. Press from left to right until the cover snaps into place. Keyboard For more information about the keyboard, see Using the Keyboard and Touchpad. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
1 screws (2) 2 keyboard 3 tabs (5) 4 keyboard cable 5 cable release lever Replacing the Keyboard 1. Slide the keyboard cable into the keyboard connector on the DIMM A memory module cover. 2. Rotate the keyboard connector latch to secure the cable. 3. Hook the tabs along the front edge of the keyboard into the palmrest. 4. Press on the right edge near the top to snap the keyboard into place. 5. Replace the two screws on the top of the keyboard.
4. Lift the memory module cover but do not remove it. NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory module securing clips. 5. Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up. 6. Remove the module from the connector.
Removing the DIMM B Memory Module The DIMM B memory module is located under the memory module cover on the bottom of the computer. 1 1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin. 2. Turn the computer upside-down, loosen the captive screw on the memory module cover (see Bottom View), and remove the cover. memory module/coin-cell battery compartment 2 captive screw NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory module securing clips.
1 tab 2 notch NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer. 3. Replace the memory module cover. 4. Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet. 5. Turn on the computer. As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration information.
If you ordered a wireless Mini Card with your computer, the card is already installed. Your computer supports three types of wireless Mini Cards: l Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) l Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN) l Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) Removing a WLAN Card 1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin. 2. Turn the computer over. 3. Loosen the captive screws on the cover of the Mini Card compartment and remove the cover. 1 captive screws (2) 4.
1 metal securing tabs (2) 2 WLAN card Replacing a WLAN Card NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system board, and realign the card. NOTICE: To avoid damage to the WLAN card, never place cables under the card. 1. Insert the WLAN card connector into the system board connector labeled "WLAN" at a 45-degree angle. 2.
1 captive screws (2) 4. 1 2 cover Disconnect the two antenna cables from the WWAN card. antenna cable connectors (2) 2 WWAN card 5. Release the WWAN card by pushing the metal securing tabs toward the back of the computer until the card pops up slightly. 6. Lift the WWAN card out of its system board connector.
1 metal securing tabs (2) 2 WWAN card Replacing a WWAN Card NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system board, and realign the card. NOTICE: To avoid damage to the WWAN card, never place cables under the card. 1. Insert the WWAN card connector into the system board connector labeled "WWAN" at a 45-degree angle. 2.
3. Connect the blue antenna cable to the WPAN card. 4. Secure unused antenna cables in the protective mylar sleeve. 5. Replace the cover and tighten the captive screws. Internal Card With Bluetooth® Wireless Technology CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery 1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin. 2. Turn the computer over. 3. Loosen the captive screw on the memory module/coin-cell battery cover (see Bottom View), and remove the cover. 4. Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the system board. 1 coin-cell battery 3 battery cable connector 5. 2 mylar sleeve Slide the battery out of the mylar sleeve. Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery 1. Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the system board. 2.
Back to Contents Page Dell™ QuickSet Features Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual NOTE: This feature may not be available on your computer. Dell QuickSet provides you with easy access to configure or view the following types of settings: l Network connectivity l Power management l Display l System information Depending on what you want to do in Dell QuickSet, you can start it by either clicking, double-clicking, or right-clicking the QuickSet icon in the Microsoft® Windows® notification area.
Back to Contents Page Securing Your Computer Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Security Cable Lock Passwords If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen Security Cable Lock NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock. A security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell computer. For more information, see the instructions included with the device.
l l If the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of the company. Contact Dell customer service to report the missing computer. Provide the computer Service Tag, the case number, and the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency to which you reported the missing computer. If possible, give the name of the investigating officer. The Dell customer service representative will log your report under the computer Service Tag and record the computer as missing or stolen.
Back to Contents Page Setting Up Your Computer Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Connecting to the Internet Transferring Information to a New Computer Setting Up a Printer Power Protection Devices Connecting to the Internet NOTE: ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and an Internet service provider (ISP).
Transferring Information to a New Computer You can transfer the following types of data from one computer to another: l E-mail messages l Toolbar settings l Window sizes l Internet bookmarks Use one of the following methods for transferring data: l Windows Easy Transfer wizard, an Easy Transfer Cable, and a USB port l Over a network l Removable media, such as a writable CD Windows Easy Transfer 1. Click Start ® All Programs® Accessories® System Tools® Windows Easy Transfer. 2.
1 USB connector on computer 3 USB printer cable 3. 2 USB connector on printer Turn on the printer, and then turn on the computer. If the Add New Hardware Wizard window appears, click Cancel. 4. Click Start , and then click Network. 5. Click Add a printer to start the Add Printer Wizard. NOTE: To install the printer driver, see Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities and the documentation that came with your printer. 6. Click Add a local printer or Add a network, wireless, or Bluetooth printer. 7.
Uninterruptible Power Supplies NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in data loss or file damage. NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to a UPS. Connect other devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that provides surge protection. A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices contain a battery that provides temporary power to connected devices when AC power is interrupted.
Back to Contents Page Specifications Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Processor Display System Information Keyboard ExpressCard Touch Pad Memory 8-in-1 Memory Card Reader Ports and Connectors Battery Communications AC Adapter Video Physical Audio Environmental NOTE: Offerings may vary by region. For more information regarding the configuration of your computer, click Start select the option to view information about your computer.
Maximum memory 4 GB NOTE: In order to take advantage of the dual channel bandwidth capability, both memory slots must be populated and must match in size. NOTE: The available memory displayed does not reflect the complete maximum memory installed because some memory is reserved for system files.
Width 344.5 mm (13.6 in) Diagonal 391.2 mm (15.
Input frequency 47–63 Hz Output current (65 W) 4.34 A (maximum at 4-second pulse) 3.34 A (65 W) (continuous) Output current (90 W) 5.62 A (maximum at 4-second pulse) 4.62 A (90 W) (continuous) Output power 65 W, 90 W Rated output voltage 19.5 +/– 1.0 VDC Dimensions (65 W): Height 28.2 mm (1.11 in) Width 57.9 mm (2.28 in) Depth 137.2 mm (5.4 in) Weight (with cables) 0.4 kg (0.9 lb) Dimensions (90 W): Height 34.2 mm (1.34 in) Width 60.8 mm (2.39 in) Depth 153.4 mm (6.
Back to Contents Page Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual 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. Information in this document is subject to change without notice. © 2007 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Back to Contents Page Traveling With Your Computer Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Identifying Your Computer Packing the Computer Travel Tips Identifying Your Computer l l Attach a name tag or business card to the computer. Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case. Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell. l Create a file on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop called if_found.
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Back to Contents Page Troubleshooting Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Dell Technical Update Service Network Problems Dell Diagnostics Power Problems Dell Support Center Printer Problems Drive Problems Scanner Problems E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Sound and Speaker Problems Touch Pad or Mouse Problems Error Messages Video and Display Problems ExpressCard Problems IEEE 1394 Device Problems Keyboard Problems Drivers Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems in the Windows Vista®
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media. The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment (PSA), a series of initial tests of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, etc. During the assessment, answer any questions that appear. l l If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps.
Option Function Express Test Performs a quick test of system devices. The test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly. Extended Test Performs a thorough check of system devices. The test typically takes an hour or more and periodically requires your input to answer specific questions.
l Click the Dell Support 3 icon NOTE: The in the notification area of your Windows desktop. icon functions vary depending on whether you click, double-click, or right-click the icon. or l Click the Microsoft® Windows Vista® Start button taskbar option is checked. ® All Programs® Dell Support 3® Dell Support Settings. Ensure that the Show icon on the NOTE: If Dell Support 3 is not available from the Start menu, go to support.dell.com and download the software.
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks. Ensure that Microsoft® Windows® recognizes the drive — l Click Start and click Computer. If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive. Test the drive — l Insert another floppy disk, CD, or DVD to eliminate the possibility that the original media is defective.
3. Gently pull out the tray until it stops. The drive makes an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound l Ensure that the sound is not caused by the program that is running. l Ensure that the disc is inserted properly. Hard drive problems Allow the computer to cool before turning it on — A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on. Run Check Disk — 1. Click Start ® Computer. 2.
Verify that the modem is communicating with Windows — 1. Click the Start , and then click Control Panel. 2. Click Hardware and Sound. 3. Click Phone and Modem Options. 4. Click the Modems tab. 5. Click the COM port for your modem. 6. Click Properties, click the Diagnostics tab, and then click Query Modem to verify that the modem is communicating with Windows. If all commands receive responses, the modem is operating properly.
Disk C: failed initialization — The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see 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 (see Hard Drive). Error reading PCMCIA card — The computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert the card or try another card (see Using ExpressCards).
Invalid configuration information-please run System Setup Program — The system configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. The message is most likely to occur after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate options in the system setup program (see Using the System Setup Program). Keyboard clock line failure — For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the Keyboard Controller test in the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
The operating system may be corrupted. Contact Dell (see Contacting Dell). No timer tick interrupt — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics). Not enough memory or resources. Exit some programs and try again — You have too many programs open. Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. Operating system not found — Reinstall the hard drive (see Hard Drive).
System Setup Program). Timer chip counter 2 failed — A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the System Set tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics). 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 Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics). x:\ is not accessible. The device is not ready — Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
If you have problems with an IEEE 1394 device not provided by Dell — Contact Dell or the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer (see Contacting Dell). Ensure that the IEEE 1394 device is properly inserted into the connector. Keyboard Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the various checks.
Press to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit. Lockups and Software Problems CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. The computer does not start Check the ac adapter — Ensure that the AC adapter is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet.
Check the Dell MediaDirect help file for information — Use the Help menu to access Dell MediaDirect Help. To play movies with Dell MediaDirect, you must have a DVD drive and the Dell DVD Player — If you purchased a DVD drive with your computer, this software should already be installed. Video Quality problems — Turn off the Use Hardware Acceleration option.
l Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem. l See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (see Memory). l Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory (see Memory). l Run the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. Check the power light — When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in Sleep state—press the power button to exit Sleep state. If the light is off, press the power button to turn on the computer. NOTE: For information on Sleep power state, see Using the Sleep Power State.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer's manufacturer. Check the printer documentation — See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting information. Ensure that the printer is turned on Check the printer cable connections — l See the printer documentation for cable connection information.
Reinstall the scanner driver — See the scanner documentation for instructions. Sound and Speaker Problems Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks. CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. No sound from integrated speakers Adjust the Windows volume control — Double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
NOTE: The volume control in some MP3 players overrides the Windows volume setting. If you have been listening to MP3 songs, ensure that you did not turn the player volume down or off. No sound from headphones Check the headphone cable connection — Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see audio connectors). Adjust the Windows volume control — Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide. If the display is blank NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer supports, it is recommended that you attach an external monitor to your computer. Check the battery — If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted.
Run the Video diagnostics tests — If no error message appears and you still have a display problem, but the display is not completely blank, run the Video device group in the Dell Diagnostics, then contact Dell (see Contacting Dell). See "Error Messages" — If an error message appears, see Error Messages. If only part of the display is readable Connect an external monitor — 1. Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the computer. 2.
Using Windows Device Driver Rollback If a problem occurs on your computer after you install or update a driver, use Windows Device Driver Rollback to replace the driver with the previously installed version. 1. Click Start , and then right-click Computer. 2. Click Properties, and then click Device Manager. NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to enter the Device Manager. 3.
5. Click Driver tab, and then click Update Driver. 6. Click Browse and browse to the location to which you previously copied the driver files. 7. Select the name of the appropriate driver and then click OK and Next. 8. Click Finish, and then restart your computer.
OR l Click Start ® All Programs ® Maintenance ® Back Up and Restore Center. Under Tasks, click Create a restore point or change settings. For more information: 1. Click Start ® Help and Support. 2. Type System Restore in the search field and press . Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State If problems occur after you install a device driver, use Device Driver Rollback (see Using Windows Device Driver Rollback) to resolve the problem.
2. As the computer restarts, press until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears on the screen. NOTE: You must press the key before the Windows logo appears on the screen. If you press after the Windows logo appears on the screen, the Advanced Boot Options menu will not appear on the screen. If you do not see the Advanced Boot Options menu, restart the computer, and then repeat this step until you see the menu on the screen. 3.
6. Press any key to Boot from CD-ROM. 7. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation. NOTE: You cannot reinstall Dell MediaDirect if you voluntarily reformat the hard drive. You need the installation software to reinstall Dell MediaDirect. See Contacting Dell.
Back to Contents Page Setting Up and Using Networks Dell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's Manual Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable Setting Up a Network Wireless Local Area Network Mobile Broadband (or Wireless Wide Area Network) Dell Wi-Fi Catcher™ Network Locator Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, another computer, or a network.
Before you can set up a WLAN, you need: l High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL) l A broadband modem that is connected and working l A wireless router or access point l A wireless network card for each computer that you want to connect to your WLAN l A network cable with a network (RJ-45) connector Checking Your Wireless Network Card Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations.
NOTE: Wait for a minimum of 5 minutes after disconnecting your broadband modem before continuing with the network setup. 8. Insert a network cable into the network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered broadband modem. 9. Connect the other end of the network cable into the Internet network (RJ-45) connector on the unpowered wireless router. 10. Ensure that no network or USB cables, other than the network cable connecting the modem and the wireless router, are connected to the broadband modem.
function on or off, the wireless activity indicator changes to display the status. For more information about the Dell QuickSet wireless activity indicator, right-click the QuickSet icon in the taskbar, and then select Help.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen to manage the network connection with the utility. or 1. Click Start ® All Programs® Dell Wireless. 2. Click Dell Wireless Broadband and follow the instructions on the screen.
