Main Menu Categories

To access the Main menu (see Figure 4-1), use the arrow keys to highlight Main. This section explains in detail each of the System Setup categories in the Main menu and the Boot Sequence submenu.

Time

Time resets the time on the computer’s internal clock.

Time is kept in a 24-hour format (hours:minutes: seconds). To change the time, use the plus and minus keys. If you prefer, you can type numbers in each of the appropriate fields.

NOTE: If your system is connected to a network, the Time category may reflect the time maintained by the network server, depending upon how the network is configured. In this case, changing the Time category on your system has no effect.

Date

Date resets the date on the computer’s internal calendar.

Your system automatically displays the day of the week corresponding to the settings in the three fields that fol- low (month, day-of-the-month, and year).

To change the date, use the plus and minus keys to increase and decrease the numbers. If you prefer, you can type numbers in the day-of-the-monthfields.

NOTE: If your system is connected to a network, the Date category may reflect the date maintained by the network server, depending upon how the network is configured. In this case, changing the Date category on your system has no effect.

Diskette Drive A and Diskette Drive B

Diskette Drive A and Diskette Drive B identify the type of diskette drives installed in the drive cage.

The options for both categories are:

•360 KB, 5.25 Inch

•1.2 MB, 5.25 Inch

•720 KB, 3.5 Inch

•1.44 MB, 3.5 Inch (default for diskette A)

•Not Installed (default for diskette B)

Fast Video BIOS

Fast Video BIOS offers the options of shadowing and/or caching the video BIOS for improved performance.

For the built-in video controller chip, the Fast Video BIOS category offers the following options:

•On and Cached (The Default)

•On

•Off

If you choose the On option, your system boots and immediately copies the video BIOS code from the flash memory chip into write-protected memory locations in faster random-access memory (RAM). This process is known as shadowing. If you choose On and Cached (the default), your system boots and not only shadows the video BIOS code, but also allows it to be cached. Cach- ing saves time for the microprocessor(s) by holding available the most recently accessed data and instructions in an intermediate storage area of static RAM (SRAM), which is faster than system RAM. Shadowing and cach- ing let the system manipulate video display data more quickly and easily, improving video performance.

Memory Cache

Memory Cache can be set to Enabled (the default) or Disabled.

Cache memory decreases the average memory cycle time to boost system performance. You may want to set Cache to Off to aid in troubleshooting software problems.

Boot Sequence

The Boot Sequence category can be set to A: then C: (the

default), C: then A:, or C: Only.

The term boot refers to the system’s start-up procedure. When turned on, the system “bootstraps” itself into an opera- tional state by loading into memory a small program which in turn loads the necessary operating system. Boot Sequence tells the system where to look for the files that it needs to load.

Selecting A: then C: causes the system to try booting from drive A first. If it finds a diskette that is not bootable in the drive or finds a problem with the drive itself, the system dis- plays an error message. If it does not find a diskette in the drive, the system then tries to boot from the hard-disk drive (drive C).

4-44 Dell PowerEdge 2100/180 and 2100/200 Systems User’s Guide

2100/180, 2100/200 specifications

The Dell 2100/200 and Dell 2100/180 are innovative offerings from Dell that cater to the demands of a variety of users, ranging from small businesses to larger enterprises. Both models are designed to deliver high performance and reliability, making them indispensable tools in the modern computing environment.

The Dell 2100/200 features an impressive Intel processor that ensures fast and efficient performance, making it suitable for multitasking and handling complex applications. Coupled with a generous RAM configuration, this model can easily manage demanding workloads, resulting in smoother performance and faster processing times. In contrast, the Dell 2100/180, while slightly less powerful, still maintains robust performance levels that are well-suited for general productivity tasks and everyday use.

Both models come equipped with ample storage options, featuring hard disk drives that provide significant space for data and application storage. Users can choose between traditional HDDs and solid-state drives (SSDs), allowing them to prioritize speed and performance based on their specific needs. The flexibility in storage options ensures that users can customize their systems according to their requirements, enhancing the overall user experience.

Connectivity is another area where the Dell 2100 series excels. Both models come with a range of ports including USB, HDMI, and Ethernet, allowing for seamless connectivity with various peripherals and networks. This versatility makes the machines ideal for environments where multiple devices need to be connected simultaneously, whether for presentations, data transfer, or internet access.

In terms of energy efficiency, both the Dell 2100/200 and Dell 2100/180 incorporate advanced cooling technologies that minimize energy consumption while maximizing performance. This not only helps reduce operational costs but also contributes to a more sustainable computing environment.

The design of these models is another distinguishing feature. With a compact form factor, they fit easily into office spaces while maintaining a professional appearance. Their durable build quality ensures longevity, making them a worthwhile investment for businesses.

Overall, the Dell 2100/200 and Dell 2100/180 serve as powerful and reliable machines that combine advanced technologies and user-centric designs. Whether for business or personal use, these models provide a solid foundation for effective computing, ensuring that users can achieve their goals efficiently and effectively.