You can connect external devices to the input/output (I/O) connectors. The computer's basic input/output system (BIOS) detects the presence of
external devices when you boot (start) or reboot your computer.

Figure 1

shows the connectors on the back of your computer.

Figure 1. I/O Connectors

Video Connector

Use the 15-hole video connector to attach an external monitor to the computer. See "

Connecting an External Monitor

" for more information about

connecting an external monitor.

Parallel Connector

Use the 25-hole parallel connector to attach a parallel device to the computer. The parallel connector is used primarily for printers. You can also
connect the diskette drive to the parallel connector.

The parallel port sends and receives data in parallel format, where eight data bits (one byte) are sent simultaneously over eight separate lines. The
port can be configured as a unidirectional (output-only) port for devices such as a printer or as a bidirectional port for devices such as a network
adapter.

The computer's integrated parallel port is designated as LPT1. The Microsoft

® Windows® 98 operating systems automatically recognize the

parallel device and configure it correctly. The parallel port can also be configured for compatibility with the PS/2 standard.

Docking Connector

The docking connector supports Dell's Inspiron 3700 APR docking solution.

NOTE: For more information, see "

Connecting External Devices

NOTICE: When disconnecting external devices from the back of the computer, wait 5 seconds after turning off the computer before
you disconnect a device to avoid possible damage to the system board.

1 Video connector
2 Parallel connector
3 Docking connector
4 USB connector
5 PS/2 connector
6 Serial connector
7 AC power connector
8 Infrared port

NOTES: Some external devices require you to load software called device drivers into system memory before the devices will work.
These device drivers help your computer recognize the external device and direct its operation. Instructions for installing this software
are usually included in the upgrade kits.

The Inspiron 3700 Advanced Port Replicator (APR) has the same I/O connectors as your computer. In addition, the APR has a second
Personal System/2 (PS/2) connector, a second Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector, and an Ethernet network connector.

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