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Using the Display

Dell™ Latitude™ D520 User's Guide

Adjusting Brightness

Switching the Video Image

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Dual Independent Display Mode

Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays

Adjusting Brightness

When a Dell™ computer is running on battery power, you can conserve power by setting the brightness to the lowest comfortable setting by pressing <Fn> and the up- or down-arrow key on the keyboard.

NOTE: Brightness key combinations only affect the display on your portable computer, not monitors or projectors that you attach to your portable computer or docking device. If your computer is connected to an external monitor and you try to change the brightness level, the Brightness Meter may appear, but the brightness level on the external device does not change.

You can press the following keys to adjust display brightness:

Press <Fn> and the up-arrow key to increase brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

Press <Fn> and the down-arrow key to decrease brightness on the integrated display only (not on an external monitor).

Switching the Video Image

When you start the computer with an external device (such as an external monitor or projector) attached and turned on, the image may appear on either the computer display or the external device.

Press <Fn><F8> to switch the video image between the display only, the external device only, or the display and the external device simultaneously.

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

To display a program at a specific resolution, both the graphics card and the display must support the program, and the necessary video drivers must be installed.

NOTE: If you change the display resolution from the current settings, the image may appear blurry or text may be hard to read. Before you change display settings, note the current settings for future reference.

Before you change any of the default display settings, make a note of the default settings for future reference.

NOTE: Use only the Dell-installed video drivers, which are designed to offer the best performance with your Dell-installed operating system.

If you choose a resolution or color palette that is higher than the display supports, the settings adjust automatically to the closest supported values.

1.Click StartControl PanelDisplaySettings.

2.Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.

NOTE: As the resolution increases, icons and text appear smaller on the screen.

If the video resolution setting is higher than that supported by the display, the computer enters pan mode. In pan mode, the entire screen cannot be displayed at one time. For example, the taskbar that usually appears at the bottom of the desktop may no longer be visible. To view the rest of the screen, use the touch pad to pan up, down, left, and right.

NOTICE: You can damage an external monitor by using an unsupported refresh rate. Before adjusting the refresh rate on an external monitor, see the user's guide for the monitor.

Dual Independent Display Mode

You can attach an external monitor or projector to your computer and use it as an extension of your display (known as "dual independent display" or "extended desktop" mode). This mode allows you to use both screens independently and drag objects from one screen to the other, effectively doubling the amount of viewable work space.

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Dell D520 Using the Display, Adjusting Brightness, Switching the Video Image, Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

D520 specifications

The Dell D520 is a robust and reliable laptop that was introduced as part of Dell's Latitude series, catering primarily to business professionals and enterprises. Known for its solid build and practical features, the D520 emphasizes productivity and durability in a mobile computing environment.

One of the standout features of the Dell D520 is its comfortable keyboard layout. The full-sized, spill-resistant keyboard offers a tactile feel, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the touchpad is responsive, enhancing ease of navigation while on the go. The laptop's design prioritizes ease of use, ensuring that users can work efficiently, whether in an office or while traveling.

In terms of hardware, the Dell D520 typically features Intel processors, which provide a balanced mix of performance and power efficiency. This enables users to run multiple applications without significant lag, making it suitable for multitasking. The laptop is also equipped with a decent amount of RAM, ensuring smooth performance for standard business applications and tasks.

The D520 includes various connectivity options, crucial for modern-day professionals. It typically comes with several USB ports, an Ethernet port, and a VGA port for connecting to external displays. There is also the option for Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to connect to networks effortlessly.

One of the key characteristics of the Dell D520 is its durability. The laptop is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use and features a sturdy chassis that can handle rough treatment. This durability makes it a favorite among users who need a reliable machine that can endure a busy workday.

The D520 also emphasizes security features that are essential for business users. It includes options for fingerprint readers and smart card readers, allowing users to enhance data protection. This level of security is particularly valuable for professionals handling sensitive information.

Battery life is another important aspect of the Dell D520. With an efficient power management system, users can expect a reasonable battery performance that allows for extended work sessions without needing to recharge frequently.

Overall, the Dell D520 combines practicality, durability, and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for business professionals who require a reliable laptop for everyday tasks. Its balance of features and performance continues to make it a suitable option for users who prioritize functionality and dependability in their computing devices.