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Using the Display

User's Guide

Adjusting Brightness

Switching the Video Image

Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

Dual Independent Display Mode

Swapping Primary and Secondary Displays

Using the Ambient Light Sensor

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.

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 Start® Control Panel® Display® Settings.

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 or track stick 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.

1. Connect the external monitor, TV, or projector to the computer.

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Dell PP04X Using the Display, Adjusting Brightness, Switching the Video Image, Setting Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

PP04X specifications

The Dell PP04X, commonly known as the Dell Latitude E6420, is a versatile and robust laptop that is designed for business professionals and power users alike. It combines performance, durability, and a wide array of connectivity options, making it a popular choice in the corporate world.

One of the standout features of the PP04X is its solid build quality. The laptop is constructed with a premium aluminum chassis paired with a magnesium alloy frame, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The spill-resistant keyboard provides an added layer of protection against accidental spills, making this device a reliable option for users on the go.

The Dell PP04X is powered by Intel's second-generation Core processors, providing excellent performance for multitasking and demanding applications. With options ranging from Core i3 to Core i7, users can select the level of power they need for their specific tasks. The laptop supports up to 8GB of DDR3 RAM, which contributes to its ability to handle multiple applications simultaneously without compromising speed.

In terms of storage, the Latitude E6420 offers various configurations, including traditional hard drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD), allowing users to balance performance and storage capacity based on their requirements. The inclusion of SSD options results in faster boot times and quicker file access, greatly enhancing overall productivity.

The display of the Dell PP04X is another highlight. It features a 14-inch HD screen with anti-glare technology, making it suitable for use in various lighting conditions, whether in a brightly lit office or while traveling. The high-resolution screen ensures crisp visuals, ideal for presentations and detailed graphic work.

Connectivity options on the Latitude E6420 are plentiful, featuring multiple USB ports, an HDMI output, and an ExpressCard slot for expandability. Additionally, users can opt for built-in mobile broadband capabilities to stay connected on the move.

Dell also places a strong emphasis on security in the PP04X. The laptop includes features such as a fingerprint reader, smart card reader, and optional TPM (Trusted Platform Module) for enhanced security, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected.

Overall, the Dell PP04X Latitude E6420 is an excellent choice for business users who require a durable and powerful laptop. With its blend of performance, security features, and connectivity options, it is well-suited to meet the demands of a fast-paced work environment. Whether for office use or travel, the PP04X provides a reliable and efficient computing experience.