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.

TE S T T H E D R I V E

Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original drive is defective.

Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.

C L E A N T H E D R I V E O R D I S K See "Cleaning Your Computer" on page 176.

C H E C K T H E C A B L E C O N N E C T I O N S

R U N T H E H A R D W A R E TR O U B L E S H O O T E R See "Troubleshooting Software and Hardware Problems" on page 83. R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 72.

Optical drive problems

NOTE: High-speed optical drive vibration is normal and may cause noise, which does not indicate a defect in the drive or the media.

NOTE: Because of different regions worldwide and different disc formats, not all DVD titles work in all DVD drives.

A D J U S T T H E W I N D O W S V O L U M E C O N T R O L

Click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen.

Ensure that the volume is turned up by clicking the slidebar and dragging it up.

Ensure that the sound is not muted by clicking any boxes that are checked.

C H E C K T H E S P E A K E R S A N D S U B W O O F E R See "Sound and Speaker Problems" on page 63.

Problems writing to an optical drive

C L O S E O T H E R P R O G R A M S The optical drive must receive a steady stream of data during the writing process. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the optical.

TU R N O F F S T A N D B Y M O D E I N W I N D O W S B E F O R E W R I T I N G T O A D I S C See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 47 or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help and Support for information on power management modes.

Hard drive problems

R U N C H E C K D I S K

Windows XP:

1 Click Start and click My Computer.

2 Right-click Local Disk C:.

3 Click PropertiesToolsCheck Now.

4 Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors and click Start.

Windows Vista:

1 Click Start and click Computer.

2 Right-click Local Disk C:.

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Troubleshooting

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Dell XPS 720 owner manual Optical drive problems, Problems writing to an optical drive, Hard drive problems

XPS 720, 720 specifications

The Dell XPS 720 is a powerful desktop computer that epitomizes the brand's commitment to performance and innovation. Introduced as part of the XPS (Extreme Performance System) line, the XPS 720 was designed for gamers, content creators, and tech enthusiasts who demand high performance from their machines.

One of the standout features of the XPS 720 is its impressive processing capabilities. The system can be equipped with Intel's quad-core processors, notably the Intel Core 2 Quad, which allows for exceptional multitasking and enhanced performance in multi-threaded applications. This makes it suitable for gaming, video editing, and graphic design.

The XPS 720 also offers a high level of customization, giving users the ability to select their desired specifications. Customers can choose between various configurations of RAM, hard drives, and graphics cards. The XPS 720 supports multi-GPU setups with NVIDIA’s SLI technology, enabling gamers to run the latest titles at optimal settings and resolutions, while also improving performance in demanding applications.

In terms of graphics capabilities, the XPS 720 can be outfitted with powerful NVIDIA GeForce or ATI Radeon graphics cards. This feature makes it a strong candidate for users who require cutting-edge visual performance, whether it’s for gaming, immersive simulations, or graphic-intensive applications.

Cooling solutions are a critical component of the XPS 720’s design, as high-performance systems generate substantial heat. Dell incorporates an advanced cooling system that includes unique thermal management technology to maintain optimal temperatures during heavy use, thereby prolonging the life and performance of the internal components.

The chassis of the XPS 720 is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. It features a sleek, futuristic design with customizable LED lighting, providing a visually appealing experience. The case also allows for easy upgrades and maintenance, which is essential for users who wish to enhance their systems over time.

Connectivity options are abundant on the XPS 720, with multiple USB ports, audio jacks, and high-definition multimedia interfaces. The inclusion of high-speed Ethernet and optional Wi-Fi capabilities ensures that users can stay connected whether for online gaming or browsing the web.

Overall, the Dell XPS 720 stands out as a commendable desktop solution that combines raw power, flexibility, and cutting-edge technologies. It remains a favorite among those looking for a robust machine capable of handling a wide variety of demanding tasks, from gaming to professional creative work. Whether you are a hardcore gamer or a professional seeking performance, the XPS 720 offers an exceptional computing experience.