eHow Logotech section
  • Computers
    • Desktops
    • Laptops & Netbooks
    • Software
  • Home Theater
    • DVR, DVD, Blu-ray
    • Sound Systems
    • TVs
  • Mobile
    • Phones
    • Tablets & eReaders
    • Navigation & GPS
  • Personal Electronics
    • Audio
    • Digital Cameras
    • Video & Camcorders
  • Web
    • Browsers
    • Email
    • Stay Connected
    • Websites
  • More eHow
    • home
    • style
    • food
    • money
    • health
    • mom
    • tech
Featured:
Allergies
Tech Know
Grilling Guide
eHow Now Blog
  1. eHow
  2. Computers
  3. Computer Brands & Models
  4. Dell Desktop Computers

Dell Desktop Computers

RSS
  • Windows Restoration Programs for Dell Computers

    Dell computers do not ship with a copy of the Windows install disc. Instead, users requiring a restoration of Windows must use one of several options provided by Dell. Some models include DataSafe, a method of Windows restoration that preserves user data. Others use the Backup and Recovery Manager, which allows for manual restoration to backups. Older Dell computers only include a complete factory image for full restoration. Users who uninstall or lose the included restoration programs can request a recovery disc from Dell to perform the safe procedure.

  • Heat Sink Problems in a Dell Computer

    The heat sink in your Dell computer sits atop your central processing unit (CPU) and helps whisk away the heat the chip generates. Problems with the heat sink in a Dell are no different than those of other computer brands, and usually consist of inconsistent cooling caused by factors such as seating problems or accumulated dirt. This lowers the cooling effectiveness of the heat sink, causing overheating issues. Before troubleshooting the heat sink, always power down and unplug the computer.

  • A Broken Ethernet Port on a Dell Desktop

    If you have a broken Ethernet port on a Dell desktop, investigate the cause of the breakdown before you purchase an alternate Ethernet connection. While a broken Ethernet port might be caused by a hardware failure, it can also be caused by a software failure with the device drivers or even a cable failure with the Ethernet cord. If the port is indeed broken, you'll have to purchase and install a separate card to provide an Ethernet connection to the computer.

  • Bus Speeds & Cache Sizes for Dell Desktop Computers

    In computer architecture, bus speed determines how fast information travels between the processor and other key components such as the memory and video card. Cache size is the amount of memory present on a computer processor. Processors use this memory to access vital information more quickly than they can obtain it from RAM or the hard drive. Dell has four basic classes of desktop computer as of the time of publication. Each class consists of a series of computers using an array of processors with different bus speeds and cache sizes.

  • My Dell Computer Stalls After Sitting in Idle

    Your Dell computer will enter sleep mode or turn on a screen saver during periods of inactivity to keep the image on the monitor from “burning in” to the screen and save electricity. “Waking” your computer is typically as simple as moving the mouse or pressing a key on the keyboard. In some cases, the computer may freeze after being left idle, sometimes requiring a hard reboot to correct.

  • How to Make Letters Bigger on Dell Computers

    If you have a hard time reading small characters on your Dell computer, adjusting the font settings can help. Windows 7 lets you universally increase the font display up to 200 percent of the original size. If that's not not enough, many programs offer a "Zoom" feature to increase the display within that particular program. If that's still not enough, Windows 7 also offers a Magnifier tool to enlarge sections of the screen.

  • Dell & Android

    Computer maker Dell Inc. offers both smartphones and tablet personal computer based on Google’s Android mobile operating system. Dell offers the Mini 3, an Android-based smartphone, in the China and Brazil markets, as of 2011. In addition, Dell offers the Android-powered Aero smartphone in the U.S market. The Dell Streak tablet PC was one of the first Android tablets to hit the market. Dell CEO Michael Dell said that he views Android as a serious competitor to Apple’s iPad tablet.

  • What Are Port Numbers for a Dell Gx270 Computer?

    The Dell OptiPlex GX270 is a standard desktop PC. It uses the same port numbers as all PCs, including netbooks, laptops, media tablets and smartphones. Port numbers are used by networks and the Internet to identify a specific process for messages to be delivered to servers. For example, FTP (File Transfer Protocol) and TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) both use port numbers. Some port numbers are used extensively, and are called "Well-Known Port Numbers." Some port numbers are only temporarily used during the transmission process, and are abandoned when completed.

  • What Is the Dell GX260 SFF?

    The Dell OptiPlex GX260 is a desktop personal computer from Dell released in 2002 as one of the entries from the computer technology company's OptiPlex brand targeted toward the corporate, education and government sectors. It was available in three models, the smallest of which is the small form factor. It's sometimes abbreviated as the SFF.

  • OptiPlex GX260 Information

    The Dell OptiPlex GX260, released in 2002, is a desktop PC from computer technology company Dell Inc. It was one of Dell's entries in its OptiPlex brand, which is geared toward educational institutions, government sectors and large corporations. Like other machines of its ilk, the OptiPlex GX260 was designed as a high-end computer. At the time of publication, it is a discontinued product.

  • How to Use Hot Patterns

    HotPatterns is an independent fashion and sewing pattern shop, available online for anyone in the world who loves sewing and creating new fashionable clothing. With HotPatterns, you have the ability to browse and purchase hip, colorful patterns directly from your computer to have them delivered to your doorstep. Using HotPatterns is possible for anyone with Internet access, and the service accepts a wide range of payment types.

  • The Standard Configuration for a Dell OptiPlex GX280

    Released in 2004, the GX280 is a desktop personal computer from Dell's OptiPlex brand, marketed towards the corporate, educational and government sectors. Dell sets components to choose from when customers are configuring the OptiPlex GX280 according to their specifications, in addition to the features that are standard and cannot be changed.

  • How to Wire a Dell GX280 Motherboard

    The hard drive, CD or DVD drive, speakers, monitor, mouse and keyboard all connect to the motherboard. The Dell GX280 motherboard provides pathways for the connected devices to communicate with the central processing unit (CPU), which executes software instructions. If the hardware devices aren't wired to the motherboard, the PC won't detect these components on boot up, and the computer won't run. If the computer fails to boot on startup, if you've disassembled the motherboard, or if you've removed or replaced a particular hardware, confirm all of the components are correctly wired to the Dell OptiPlex GX280 motherboard.

  • Comparison of the Dell GX280 and GX520

    The GX280 and GX520 were desktop personal computers manufactured by Dell as part of the company's OptiPlex line. Dell marketed both computers toward the government and corporate segment of the desktop market. The computers were similar in terms of styling and features, with the GX280 being the more powerful of the two. Both computers have since been discontinued as of June 2011.

  • How Much RAM Does the Dell OptiPlex GX280 Have?

    The Dell OptiPlex GX280 is a business desktop computer available in a variety of sizes ranging from a small form factor model to a mini tower. The OptiPlex GX280 supports Intel Pentium 4 processors. If you are interested in upgrading the memory in your GX280, determine the amount of memory installed and study the specifications of the machine to learn what it can support.

  • How to Reset a 2004 Dell Desktop to Factory Settings Without a Disc

    Dell desktop computers released in 2004 come in a wide array of configurations, each with a distinct set of specifications and features. Most models were equipped with the Microsoft Windows XP operating system. Systems without a factory restore disc have a restore utility on the hard drive. This utility is used to restore the computer back to its factory-configured state. All data added by the user will be erased during this process.

  • Suggested Upgrades for a Desktop Computer

    Upgrading your desktop computer can breathe new life into outdated hardware. There are several basic types of hardware and software upgrades that can have a profound impact on the performance of any desktop computer. Each type of upgrade has specific performance characteristics that impact how it will affect your system. Business computers rarely require an upgraded video card but a gaming computer would. Other types of upgrades including hard drive, processor and RAM upgrades will boost the performance of most computers.

  • How Do I Put Music on My Sylvania Netbook?

    The Sylvania Wireless Netbook is part of the Sylvania family of portable devices. It has a 7-inch display with 800 by 480-pixel resolution and a 2.2-inch touchpad. In addition to internal Internet access, the Sylvania Netbook is also designed with music playing through Windows Media Player. You can transfer music from your PC to the Netbook via a SD Flash memory card or USB Flash drive.

  • Dell Computer Characteristics

    Dell was founded in 1984 when its founder Michael Dell began putting together and selling IBM PC-compatible computers from his dorm room at the University of Texas at Austin. Although Dell has since expanded its business to several other electronics products, it is still best known for its various computer brands, which are split into desktops, laptops and netbooks.

  • What Kind of Cord Do You Need to Connect Your Desktop Computer to Your RCA HDTV?

    Computers are connected to TVs for different reasons. Different types of cables can determine what type of picture quality your television will have after hooking it up. People that hook a PC to a TV and want high picture quality typically use HDMI cables. Determining your reason for your computer-to-TV connection can give you a better vision of what type of cable to choose.

  • How to Use a TV as an Unsupported Monitor

    Knowing how to use a TV as an unsupported monitor for your computer comes in handy in the case that your computer monitor breaks, or if you need a larger display for your laptop. Though TVs can be connected to computers in a matter of minutes, the computer sees the TV as "unsupported" or generic. All this really means is that the computer may not recognize the TV as a monitor immediately, meaning you will need to restart the computer after the TV is connected.

  • What Type of RAM for My Optiplex Gx280?

    Dell's OptiPlex GX280 desktop computer comes in five variations. While they all share the same memory specifications, the Small Form-Factor version doesn't have as much internal space, meaning it can't hold as much memory as the larger versions of the GX280. Before upgrading your GX280's random access memory, it's important to understand the memory specifications, ensuring a smooth upgrade using the proper memory.

  • Upgrades for Wii

    The Wii is a gaming console created by Nintendo that allows users to interact physically with a game. To play the Wii, gamers must stand up, swing their arms, jump and get into the game itself. With the wireless controller gamers do not have to worry about being tangled up or their play being interfered with. The standard Wii comes with a console, single remote and the Wii Sports game.

  • How to Hook a Dell 910 to a TV

    Dell 910 owners can connect their notebook computer to a TV to use as an external monitor or to display video through a larger screen. Connecting the laptop to the TV will require the appropriate cables and adapters to bridge whatever the compatibility gaps exist between the Dell, and the make and model of the TV you wish to connect. Once the Dell 910 is connected, you may need to configure the display settings within your operating system to take full advantage the specifications of the TV.

  • Optiplex GX150 PCI Video Card Installation

    Upgrading the video card on your Dell GX150 desktop PC can give you sharper images and a more stable picture, especially if you do a lot of gaming and other video-intensive work. The video card built into the Dell GX150 is fine for simple Web surfing and email. But for more serious work, a stand-alone video card is a smart choice.

  • Phaser 8200's Specs

    The Xerox Phaser 8200 is a color printer designed for use in office environments. One of its distinguishing features is its unique solid ink system. This system replaces toner or liquid-ink inkjet cartridges with sticks of solid coloring that are then melted and applied to a drum for transfer to the page. Xerox claims that this technology offers better color fidelity coupled with lower cost and reduced wastes.

  • How to Make a Dell Dimension 4300 Boot From CD

    The Dell Dimension series of computers is known for its robust set of troubleshooting tools, driver bundles and operating system installation tools included with the utility CDs. Using most of these tools involves booting the computer directly from the CD using BIOS commands. The Dimension 4300 default commands are relatively straightforward.

  • The Specifications for a Dimension XPS 710

    Dell's XPS 710 desktop PC launched in 2007 as part of Dell's Dimension line. It supports a variety of features including scalable link interface (SLI), optional liquid cooling and several types of optical drives. It provides support for some outdated interfaces but does not accommodate many of the features found on newer systems.

  • Upgrades for Computers

    With technology advancing so rapidly, trying to keep up with having the latest and fastest computer can be expensive, having to constantly replace older systems with new ones. One cost-saving method of prolonging the lifespan of your older computer is to upgrade some of its components -- which is something that can often be accomplished relatively easily, and usually cheaply.

  • How to Set a Constant Sync on a VP-23DS

    The Kramer VP-23DS is a cross-platform presentation switcher that allows you to connect various feed input devices and root them into one output device. Typically you can use this if, for example, you need to switch between a computer and a DVD player on a projector. You can, however, choose to sync one device constantly with the Kramer VP-23DS if you prefer. This way you can gain further audio control over the production than you would be able to with just a computer.

  • How to Sync a VP-23DS

    The Kramer VP-23DS is a video switchboard. This allows you to connect multiple devices to a single video display. For example, if you have a video projector with only one input, but want to sync up several devices to the single input, you use the switch to select the desired connection to use. The equipment can also be used for live performances, with several audio inputs for microphones. Once you have everything connected, it just takes a few buttons to sync the equipment.

  • Dell Precision 870 Specifications

    With all the new computers coming out virtually every day from manufacturers like Dell, it is difficult to keep up with all the particular specifications on each model. One of Dell's new models of workstation's release date was in late 2009. Despite the difficulty of meeting this deadline due to availability of the new line of processors, the new models have more capabilities than any of Dell's previous models. The new model was the Dell XPS 8000 line of computers capable of utilizing the Intel i7-870 processor.

  • XPS 710 Specs

    The XPS 710 is a desktop computer tower made by Dell. Primarily targeted at people who play video games, it is equipped with a very powerful processor, ample memory and a high-quality graphics card. It has a large, glossy, red front and a silver exterior covering. It was preceded by the XPS 700 and succeeded by the XPS 720.

  • How to Overclock an XPS 710 H2C

    The Dell XPS 710 H2C is a gaming desktop PC from Dell. With an Intel Core 2 Extreme CPU, the Dell XPS 710 H2C can be overclocked with relative ease, providing even more processing power for your gaming needs. All you need to do is navigate a few menus to overclock your Dell XPS 710 H2C.

  • How to Upgrade a Gateway FX

    Gateway's FX series of computers are desktop systems designed with gaming in mind, and like any good gaming computer, they are upgradeable to allow owners to keep their systems current with modern standards. FX systems feature PCIe x16 slots for upgrading graphics cards, PCI slots for audio or networking solutions, DIMM memory and extra compact-disc and hard drive bays. Users can replace as many of these components as they want using this guide.

  • How to Repair the Computer Speakers That Stopped Working

    Computer manufacturers build speakers into the frame of PCs or provide external speakers that plug into designated ports. The various possible computer speaker configurations can make it very difficult for you to manually troubleshoot the cause of no sound coming from your PC. The problem could be with the speakers, the sound card or the audio software in the operating system. If you have Windows 7, you can use a problem solving tool that will automatically find the cause of malfunctioning speakers and fix the problem.

  • My Dell Desktop Won't Boot and the Keyboard Is Not Functioning

    Due to their large presence in offices and schools, most Dell computers are designed for ease of service and repair. Most models use the same function key settings and diagnostic light codes, for example. If your desktop will not boot and the keyboard is not working, there are some simple steps to determine whether the computer or the keyboard is to blame. You can also use diagnostic light codes, which are common to all Dell desktops, to determine what kind of hardware failure led to your computer's inability to boot.

  • How to Use a Dell Certificate in the Outlet Store

    Dell gift certificates can be used online to purchase items from Dell's website and outlet website. The Dell outlet site often offers discounts on refurbished and discontinued Dell products. Dell gift certificates can be purchased from Dell's website in increments ranging from $50 to $500. To use the gift certificate, the recipient must have the gift certificate in front of him, because a specific number from the certificate is needed upon checkout.

  • My Dell 4300 Desktop Won't Finish Booting Up

    The Dell Dimension 4300--a desktop computer released in early 2000 and geared toward consumers--comes with an Intel Pentium 4 processor, 128 megabytes of RAM and a 20 gigabyte hard drive. Although hardware failure can prevent a computer from booting to the operating system, it's usually best to assume that a problem is minor or easily repairable before attempting to replace or fix any interior components. Disk errors related to the BIOS configuration, or a faulty master boot record (MBR), can both prevent a Dell Dimension 4300 from booting to the computer. Fortunately, both error require little effort to fix.

  • The Specifications for an OptiPlex GX60

    Dell's OptiPlex GX60 is the budget version of the company's popular business computer line. Unlike other GX models released in 2004, the GX60 includes a Celeron, rather than a Pentium 4, processor. The motherboard lacks an AGP slot. Like most OptiPlex models, the GX60 is available in three form factors or sizes: small form factor, small desktop and small mini-tower.

  • How to Upgrade a 5 to 6-Year-Old Dell Desktop Unit

    The exact makeup of a 5- or 6-year-old Dell computer varies by the nature of the system and the exact age of the computer. Over time, five or six years ago is relative to when you attempt to upgrade. You may not know the exact specifications for a generic 5-year-old Dell computer. However, usually the most beneficial upgrades for an old computer are memory and a faster processor. These two pieces of hardware can increase the system's speed and performance.

  • Specifications of the XPS 710 H2C

    The XPS 710 H2C is a desktop gaming computer made by Dell and introduced in 2006. It uses an Intel chipset motherboard and two NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GTX cards run in SLI mode. These cards provide the XPS 710 H2C with a moderate amount of graphical processing capability. The XPS 710 H2C also provides several options for extra media devices, including a 13-in-1 media card reader and several optical drive options.

  • Optiplex GX150 Pentium 3 Motherboard Specifications

    The OptiPlex GX150 was a desktop computer released by Dell in 2001. The motherboard that came standard with this model was the 38HRF, also manufactured by Dell. The 38HRF is no longer manufactured or sold by Dell, but is available for purchase from several web vendors.

  • Dell 8200 Specs

    The Dell Dimension 8200 is a highly configurable desktop computer available with a variety of hardware and software combinations. This Intel Pentium 4-based desktop is available with operating systems as old as Windows Millennium Edition and as recent as Windows XP. While Dell no longer produces the Dimension 8200, you may find one on the used market. Examine the specifications of the Dell Dimension 8200 to determine whether it might suit your needs.

  • How to Repair the Volume on Dell Desktop Speakers

    Dell desktop speakers are an indispensable computer accessory for some users, much like a monitor or DVD drive, and problems with the volume are an inconvenience. In addition to the speakers, the computer generates audio through a sound card on the motherboard and volume software in the operating system. Troubleshooting problems with the volume may require that you check those two aspects and others as a potential source of the problem. If the Dell desktop speakers are connected to a Windows-based PC, you can run a sound troubleshooting utility to automatically detect and repair volume problems.

  • Dell GX P4 2.2GHz Tower Specifications

    Dell Computers makes high performance desktop and laptop computers designed to work at home and in the office. Additionally, many of the computers Dell makes are designed to network well with others, creating a highly interactive office environment. The Dell GX Pentium 4 desktop computer features several specifications that make it a powerful tool at any desk.

  • How to Compare Prices on Dell Desktop Computers

    When comparing the prices on Dell desktop computers, you ideally have four choices in buying a new system.

  • Optiplex 740 Specifications

    The Dell Optiplex line of computers is their basic business line of desktop machines. The Optiplex 740 was their mid-2007 model number, and was noted for coming in several case configurations, from mini-towers to horizontal desktop machines to ultra-compact versions with minimal expandability. Primarily meant as an office worker desktop machine, it's a computer geared for the price side of the price/performance equation.

  • Optiplex GX280 Specifications

    In 2005 Dell Computers released the Optiplex GX280 desktop computer. It was designed and marketed specifically for the business user and utilized cost-effective components to encourage bulk purchases. With a base specification enabling the computer to perform most business tasks, the computer was a hit in the business and government markets. Today the GX280 can still be found on the desks of business and government workers.

  • Inspiron 545 Specs

    Though laptop computers are very popular, many people still rely on desktop computers in order to handle tasks that require faster processors and more memory. If you are looking to invest in a desktop computer, you may want to consider the Dell Inspiron 545 desktop computer. The Inspiron 545 comes with a variety of features that make it one of the most reliable desktops on the market today.

  • How to Add Hauppauge 2250 to a Dell Desktop

    The Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-2250 is a PCI Express compatible dual TV tuner card capable of receiving NSCT, ATSC, Clear QAM and FM signals. Most tuners with this model number come packaged with a remote control, and some come packaged with an auxiliary Audio and Video (A/V) panel which adds extra A/V ports to your computer. Also packaged with this tuner is Hauppauge's own WinTV version 7 software, but the manual suggests using Windows Media Center instead.

  • Adding Memory to Dell Desktop Computer

    Adding Random Access Memory (RAM) to the Dell desktop computer is a job that can be done in about a half hour. The computer memory is responsible for storing data that allows the computer operating system and programs to run when needed. With the increasing size of computer programs, you need to add more RAM memory to the Dell desktop computer in order to run the most updated software. You can add the memory to the computer yourself, saving you time and money.

  • How to Open a Dell Desktop Case

    Opening a Dell desktop computer is a simple process. With the removal of several securing screws and side panels, have your desktop case opened in no time. Opening your desktop computer is something you can do at home without incurring any costs from an expensive technician.

  • How to Build a Dell Desktop Computer

    Dell Inc. is one of the largest computer manufacturers in the world. Founded by Michael Dell in 1984, Dell has branched out into computer hardware like servers and peripheral devices like printers and scanners, but the company retains a major focus on manufacturing personal computers. Dell's business model has always been based on allowing customers to custom-design computers to fit their own purposes, a process that has become even easier on the company's website.

  • Dell GX280 Memory Types

    The Dell OptiPlex GX280 series is a family of desktop computers that includes desktop, mini-tower, and small form factor (SFF) varieties. The significant difference is that the SFF model has only two slots for RAM modules while the other models have four RAM slots. Because the GX280 series support dual channel memory, RAM should be installed in matched module pairs for optimum performance. Dell recommends RAM with speeds of 667 MHz or 800 MHz for this series.

  • How to Replace the Battery in a Dell Desktop Computer

    Dell desktop computers use a battery in the motherboard to keep certain functions constantly running. Some of the functions are remembering the correct time and date on your computer. When your computer is not keeping the right time or is giving you a BIOS error, it's time to change the battery on the motherboard. Changing this battery is not hard and will not require a computer specialist. You can do it yourself with little hassle.

  • How to Open a Dell Computer Desktop

    Knowing how to open up your Dell computer tower is essential if you are going to attempt to upgrade or repair your computer yourself. You will also need to open up your computer case to occasionally clean the dust off of the hardware in your Dell computer. It's also good to open up your computer and familiarize yourself with where hardware is located and how that hardware is connected to the other hardware in your Dell computer.

  • How to Uninstall Agent.exe

    Agent.exe, or Dell Support Agent, is a software application developed by Dell that comes installed in new Dell computers. This Dell application ensures that your computer system maintains stability. Because Agent.exe is pre-installed, it loads up every time you start, reboot or restart your computer system. Agent.exe runs silently in the background, which requires extra computer memory. This may cause problems for other programs that need memory as well. The solution lies in removing the application through the uninstall process.

  • How to Hook Up a Dell Desktop Computer

    Your Dell desktop computer will come with all of the equipment you need to hook it up and get it started right in the box with the main CPU. You will have all of the peripheral equipment and cables that you need to connect your desktop to your keyboard, mouse, monitor and, most importantly, a wall outlet or surge protector to provide it with power. The entire hook-up process shouldn't take more than a few minutes.

  • Specifications of a Dell GX280 Desktop

    Released in 2005, the Dell GX280 was one of the desktop entries of Dell Inc.'s lineup of computers geared toward the business, government and education sectors called OptiPlex. As of July 2010, the GX280 is no longer in production.

  • How to Rebuild a Dell Desktop Computer

    The majority of Americans will tend to go from an old computer to a newer one by simply hitting their local box store and buying an entirely new system once they come up with the funds to pay for it. If you have an older Dell computer, it is possible to combine the old with new technology all by yourself. This has the advantage of letting you choose exactly which components and specifications you want for your rebuilt machine, whether your focus is on graphics, processing power, large or multiple hard drives or incredible sound.

  • How to Remove a Dell Desktop Computer Cover

    There are various Dell desktop computers with removable covers, and different lines of desktop computers often have different removal methods. However, the overall strategy for removing the cover from your Dell desktop computer remains the same, regardless of what type of desktop computer you have. Opening the computer cover of your Dell desktop machine is the first step in any repair, replacement or upgrade on the internal parts of the computer.

  • How to Open a Dell 531S Slimline Desktop Case

    Dell's 531S desktop computer is designed to take up as little space as possible with its a smaller than average case size. If you need to work inside the computer, you have to open the case to access the internal components.

  • How to Remove the Case Cover on a Dell Desktop

    Opening the case on your Dell desktop computer will allow you to clean out the inside in the event that dust has built up, or add or remove new hardware components. Opening the case involves removing one side of the case's cover, which will allow you to access the inside. Though this is fundamentally straightforward, you still have to do everything in the proper order or you risk damaging your Dell desktop computer beyond repair.

  • How to Open the Case on a Dell 531S Desktop

    Dell's Inspiron 531 is a desktop computer that comes in a slim form factor. If you need to access the parts inside the machine, you must first remove the case of the computer.

  • How Do I Reboot My Dell Desktop?

    A common requirement to complete a new software or hardware installation on a Dell computer is to reboot it. Reboots can also help a slow-running or completely frozen computer. In computer terms, the word “reboot” simply means to restart the computer. This is a simple task that can be performed by even the most novice computer user. All it takes is a couple clicks of the mouse to reboot a Dell computer.

  • How to Install a New Hard Drive for a Dell Desktop Computer

    Dell desktop computers are configurable when purchased and can include a variety of hardware. If you have purchased one of these computers and wish to upgrade it by installing a new hard drive, you can do so with relative ease. While the many models of desktop computers differ to some degree, in general the process for installing a new hard drive is the same.

  • How to Add Wireless Internet to a Dell Desktop Computer

    If you want to connect to the Internet from multiple locations without having to plug in a cable, you will first need to have the proper type of wireless card installed on your PC. While your Dell desktop probably came with an Ethernet adapter for connecting to an Internet source, it may not have included a wireless card. You can add wireless connectivity to your Dell computer by opening up the case and manually adding a wireless PCI card.

  • How to Remove the Faceplate From a Dell Desktop 2400

    To add or change a functional drive (floppy or optical) on the Dell Dimension 2400 desktop, you need to get behind the faceplate, or the front panel. You may have to remove a faceplate insert to make the drive accessible from the outside of the computer. The faceplate is easy to take off and doesn't require any tools beyond your hands.

  • How to Add a Wireless Connection to a Dell Desktop Computer

    Desktop computers are not known for their wireless connectivity, but it is possible to make yours one that is. Wireless network adapters, which enable your desktop to pick up wireless Internet signals, come in a variety of forms, and are all fairly easy to install. Once you have one installed, getting online wirelessly is almost effortless.

  • How to Fix a Loud Fan in a Dell Desktop

    The fan is one of the most crucial parts of computer hardware because it keeps the central processing unit (CPU) cool. Additional fans throughout the inside of the computer are also used to cool different parts by moving air throughout the case. The reason it is so important to keep these components cool is because should they overheat, the computer could shut down or worse, need replacement parts due to heat damage. While important, there are times when the fans themselves can be cause for concern. Most notably is when the fans run noisily in the computer. This can be…

  • How to Format Dell Desktops

    Whether you want to upgrade the operating system on your Dell desktop computer or simply reset your computer to its original state, formatting the hard drive is a critical step. Formatting a Dell desktop will overwrite the data on the computer's hard drive and prepare it for an operating system installation. Since the formatting process will delete all data on your hard drive, remember to back up every one of your important files first.

  • How to Identify Dell Motherboard Part Number

    Most computer manufacturers use a proprietary identification number scheme for their parts and accessories. Each one looks different, and some can be very confusing and hard to find. Dell has a fairly simple part numbering system, and usually makes them easy to spot. Their replacement parts and accessories all use the same system, and all have a small sticker with the part number and revision on it. You can use the Dell part number to find replacement parts on Dell's website, or on resale sites around the Internet.

  • How to Install a DVD Drive in a Dell Desktop Computer

    In a computer, the components with moving parts are the most likely to fail. If your Dell desktop is more than 2-3 years old, your DVD drive may be reaching the point where it is no longer performing correctly and must be replaced. Replace the DVD drive in your Dell Desktop to return the computer to normal operation, so you can resume watching movies and burning discs.

  • Dell Desktops Refurbished Vs. New

    Dell sells new and refurbished desktop computers. New computers are produced by the Dell factory and shipped to the customer. Refurbished desktop computers are new or used computers that were returned by the original customer, and may have cosmetic defects. Refurbished systems are sold through Dell Outlet.

  • How to Disassemble a Dell Desktop Computer

    You may want to disassemble a Dell computer for a variety of reasons: you have a new computer and want to sell the parts of the old one on eBay; or maybe you want to install a new component into the computer, such as a DVD drive, second hard drive or additional RAM. While taking a computer apart can be daunting, the process is actually rather simple. Dell computers are especially easy to dismantle because the company realizes that consumers will eventually want to upgrade the components in their machines.

  • How to Transfer Programs From Dell Desktop to Dell Netbook

    While having a netbook makes browsing the Internet away from home a much simpler process, it can also be frustrating when you have programs spread out across two computers. If you have a program or file on your Dell desktop that you also need on your Dell netbook, there are several ways to transfer them. Unfortunately, there are fewer options than when you are transferring between two full-sized computers, as most Dell netbooks do not include CD or DVD optical drives.

  • How can I Make my Dell Computer Desktop Screen Stay on Maximum While Surfing?

    When surfing the Internet on a Dell computer, you may want to keep the screen display at maximum brightness. By default, some computer screens are set to dim, and eventually go into sleep mode after a certain time of inactivity. There are a number of ways to prevent this and keep the screen brightness at maximum, while viewing the screen and browsing the Internet.

  • How to Buy a Dell Desktop Computer

    Purchasing a new computer of any kind is a major investment. If you're in the market for a new Dell desktop computer, consider your needs and weigh them against the options Dell offers. Aside from wanting to get the most bang for your buck, you'll also want to ensure that the PC has the storage and features you desire.

  • How to Reset a Dell Desktop Computer to Factory Settings

    Sometimes computers need to be restored. While most Dell desktops respond well to a "system restore" procedure, which restores the Windows operating system, occasionally a computer may need to be restored to factory settings. This is usually a last resort due to viruses that can't seem to be removed. While you should try "system restore" on your Dell first, resetting the desktop to factory settings is an option. Be aware, however, that performing a factory reset will result in the loss of all data on your hard drive.

  • How to Add Memory to a Dell Desktop Computer

    Adding memory to your Dell desktop computer is fairly easy to do. There are a couple of things that you might need and some great resources that you can take advantage of on the Internet that will help you accomplish the task. Make sure to read through the directions completely so that you have a complete understanding of what you will need to do. You can expect to accomplish the installation of your RAM in 15 minutes to an hour depending on your experience.

  • How to Install Upgrades on a Dell Desktop Computer

    Dell computers are inexpensive computers which often come from the manufacturer with very few extra features. Most Dell computer owners will probably want to upgrade their computers at some time. It's important to understand the idiosyncrasies of the Dell computer before you start trying to install those upgrades.

ehow.com
  • About eHow
  • How to by Topic
  • How to Videos
  • Sitemap

Copyright © 1999-2012 Demand Media, Inc.
Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Ad Choices en-US

Technology Electronics
Verisign seal