Dell Dimension XPS H233 Reference Manual

Also see for Dimension XPS H233: Service manual

Contents

Dell Dimension XPS H233 Reference Manual Manual pdf 21 page image

Using Configuration Software 2-1Chapter 2Using Configuration SoftwareThis chapter provides an overview of two importantprograms that you may need to use with your computersystem—the system setup program and the ISA Configu-ration Utility. Both of these programs are used toconfigure your computer system, and the system setupprogram is additionally used to enable and disable yoursystem’s password features. This chapter introduces theseprograms and tells you how to start them. Besides theonline help provided in both of these programs, you canfind complete descriptions of their features and functionsin the online System User’s Guide.System Setup ProgramEach time you turn on your computer system or press thereset button, the system compares the hardware installedin the system to the hardware listed in the configurationinformation stored in nonvolatile random-access memory(NVRAM) on the system board. If the system detects adiscrepancy between the two, it generates error messagesthat identify the incorrect configuration settings. The sys-tem then prompts you to enter the system setup programto correct the setting.You can use the system setup program as follows:• To change the system configuration informationafter you add, change, or remove any hardware inyour system• To set or change user-selectable options—forexample, the time or date on your systemAfter you make changes to system setup program set-tings, you have the option of rebooting the system toimplement the changes.After you set up your system, run the system setupprogram to familiarize yourself with your systemconfiguration information and optional settings. Dell rec-ommends that you print the system setup programscreens (by pressing the key) or write downthe information for future reference.Before you use the system setup program, you need toknow the kind of hard-disk drive(s) and diskette drive(s)installed in your computer. If you are unsure of any ofthis information, see the online Manufacturing TestReport in the Dell Accessories folder.Entering the System SetupProgramEnter the system setup program as follows:1. Turn on (or reboot) your system.2. When prompted, press immediately toenter the system setup program.If you wait too long and the operating system beginsto load into memory, let the system complete theload operation. Then shut down the system andrepeat steps 1 and 2.NOTE: To ensure an orderly system shutdown, con-sult the documentation that accompanied youroperating system.You can also enter the system setup program by respond-ing to certain error messages.