How to Restore a Dell 1100 to Factory Settings

The Dell Inspiron 1100 was Dell's first laptop. It was somewhat reliable but has developed certain problems over time, such as sound and video issues. Component failure rarely happened on this computer unless there was defect or an issue of age. Regardless of these problems, the system is still a solid performer in the laptop market. When restoring the system to factory settings, the same instructions apply to the Dell 1100 that apply to all Dell systems.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Original software discs (operating system, Resource CD, miscellaneous software that came with the system)

1. Install the operating system, and insert your Resource CD. Install the Resource CD if directed to do so.

2. Install the Notebook System Software (NSS) first. It is located in "System and Configuration Utilities Category" on the "Drivers and Downloads" page. The NSS will instruct your computer what components are in your system. Some earlier 1100 models may not require this. Reboot the system if necessary.

3. Open the Resource CD again and install the "Chipset" driver. It is located in the "Chipset Category" on the "Drivers and Downloads" page. The chipset driver tells the computer what type of manufacturer the components are from. Reboot the system if necessary.

4. Open the Resource CD again and install the "Audio" driver. It is located in the "Audio Category" on the "Drivers and Downloads" page. The "Audio" is the sound card that the computer has built-in for it. Reboot the system if necessary.

5. Open the Resource CD again and install the "Video" driver. It is located in the "Video Adapter Category" on the "Drivers and Downloads" page. The "Video" is the visual component that you view that has specified drivers so it can display the right color and size on your computer monitor. Reboot the system if necessary.

6. Open the Resource CD again and install the "Network" driver. It is located in the "Network Category" on the "Drivers and Downloads" page. This is for hooking up your high-speed Internet through a DSL or cable modem. Reboot the system if necessary.

7. Install any other programs that came with your system.

Tips & Warnings

• Once the NSS is installed, you should be able to see green check marks beside drivers when you start installing the Resource CD. These green checks signify programs or drivers that should be installed on your computer. Follow each step before proceeding with other installations. Make sure you have up-to-date antivirus software to make sure you aren't infected by viruses, which will ruin your installation.
• Make sure you have your original discs. If you have lost your original discs, you will have to contact Dell to see if it can send replacements to you. You can also download the drivers from Dell's website. If you do not see the green checks for installation, make sure to look for your specific model drivers on Dell's website. Make sure to do all these installations while the computer is plugged into to the wall, in case the battery runs out. If an installation is cut off before completion and the computer crashes on system critical files, you will have to start the factory restore from the beginning.

Resources

• To request system discs from Dell
• To download drivers from Dell