System Setup Screens

NOTE: For information about a specific item on a system setup screen, highlight the item and see the Help area on the screen.

In the system setup program, primary categories of settings are listed on the left. To view the types of settings in a category, highlight the category and press <Enter>. When you highlight a setting type, the right side of the screen displays the value for that setting type. You can change settings that appear as white type on the screen. Values that you cannot change (because they are determined by the computer) appear less bright.

System-setup key functions are listed across the bottom of the screen.

Commonly Used Options

Certain options require that you reboot the computer for new settings to take effect.

Changing the Boot Sequence

The boot sequence, or boot order, tells the computer where to look to find the software needed to start the operating system. You can control the boot sequence and enable/disable devices using the Boot Order page of the system setup program.

NOTE: To change the boot sequence on a one-time-only basis, see "Performing a One-Time Boot" on page 93.

The Boot Order page displays a general list of the bootable devices that may be installed in your computer, including but not limited to the following:

Diskette Drive

Modular bay HDD

Internal HDD

Optical Drive

During the boot routine, the computer starts at the top of the list and scans each enabled device for the operating system start-up files. When the computer finds the files, it stops searching and starts the operating system.

To control the boot devices, select (highlight) a device by pressing the down-arrow or up-arrow key, and then enable or disable the device or change its order in the list.

To enable or disable a device, highlight the item and press the space bar. Enabled items appear as white and display a small triangle to the left; disabled items appear blue or dimmed without a triangle.

To reorder a device in the list, highlight the device and then press <u> or <d>(not case-sensitive) to move the highlighted device up or down.

Boot sequence changes take effect as soon as you save the changes and exit the system setup program.

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System Setup Program

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Dell D430 manual System Setup Screens, Commonly Used Options, Changing the Boot Sequence

D430 specifications

The Dell D430, also known as the Dell Latitude D430, is a compact and portable laptop that was designed to cater to the needs of mobile professionals. Released as part of Dell's Latitude series, the D430 balances performance, durability, and lightweight construction, making it a reliable choice for professionals on the go.

One of the standout features of the Dell D430 is its size and weight. Weighing in at approximately 3.2 pounds and measuring just over one inch in thickness, the D430 is one of the more portable laptops of its time. This lightweight design allows users to easily slip the laptop into a backpack or briefcase without adding significant bulk, while still providing a sturdy build quality that is characteristic of Dell's Latitude line.

Performance-wise, the Dell D430 is equipped with Intel Core 2 Duo processors, which offer a good balance of power and energy efficiency for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and light multitasking. It typically comes with 2GB of RAM, which can be upgraded to 4GB for enhanced performance when running more demanding applications. The laptop features a 12.1-inch display, which, while smaller than typical laptop screens, maintains a resolution of 1280x800 pixels, providing clear visuals suitable for presentations and media consumption.

In terms of connectivity, the D430 offers a variety of ports and wireless options, making it versatile for different business needs. Equipped with USB 2.0 ports, a VGA output for connecting to external displays, and an RJ-45 Ethernet port, the D430 provides ample connectivity for peripherals and networking. Additionally, the built-in Wi-Fi capability ensures users can stay connected to the internet wherever they go.

Another notable aspect of the Dell D430 is its security features, which are crucial for business professionals. The laptop supports optional fingerprint readers and smart card readers, adding an extra layer of security for sensitive data. Moreover, features such as TPM (Trusted Platform Module) enhance the laptop's data protection and help safeguard users' information against unauthorized access.

Battery life is also a key characteristic of the D430, with options for extended batteries that allow for longer periods of use without needing to recharge. This makes it particularly appealing for professionals who may be out of the office for extended periods.

In conclusion, the Dell D430 combines portability, performance, and security, making it a suitable choice for mobile professionals seeking a reliable laptop for their everyday business needs. Its blend of compact design, solid performance specifications, and essential connectivity options showcase why it remains a respected member of Dell's Latitude series.