8100 Volume Keys

Question

Hello,

I just got my Insipron 8100 about 2 days ago at a garage sale for $50 (good deal) but I have a question about the volume keys. They don't work at all. The buttons I am talking about are right next to the Power Button and the Dell (E) Button at the top of the keyboard. If they work, what do they control? If they were meant to control the System-wide volume controls, then they don't work. If they are meant for WMP (system came with XP Home bundled), then how can I make it so they adjust playing volumes for others apps like Winamp and XMPlay? Thank you for taking the time to read and respond.

Jesse~

computergeek200 · Answer

You really shouldn't buy $50 computers at garage sales, anyway. The Dell Outlet and Used Computer Center has inexpensive used systems that have been looked over by pros to make sure everything works.   You can call Dell and see what you can do. They may have you ship the computer to them to repair those buttons. It may cost $50-$150.

djdarkx · Answer

Thanks, but it's not just the volume buttons in that area. The FN volume keys don't work either. I reinstalled XP Home off the recovery CD and installed the support software and drivers, but even those keys don't work. The PageUp and PageDn Keys work, but not the FN functions associated with them. Also, $50 for a laptop this good when the only problem was that the video drivers needed to be updated to the newest version is awesome, especially when you're on a budget.

Anyway, is there supposed to be some kind of support software/drivers for the Volume buttons I described above or not? If not, then it really won't concern me too much. I can make an application that controls the volume for the system, but the resmebles a widget. Thanks!

Jesse~

Message Edited by djdarkx on 06-19-200605:19 PM

rwm32 · Answer

Sounds as though you need to install the most recent (relative term!) audio drivers from the I8100 downloads on the Dell website.   You might also want to install Dell AccessDirect (again, latest version from the Dell website): it will enable you to use the other buttons for media playback -- and allow you to program buttons 1 and 2. Message Edited by rwm32 on 06-21-200611:34 AM

rwm32 · Answer

Way to go!

djdarkx · Answer

Thank you soo much rwm32! I updated the drivers and it worked like a charm! My laptop is now complete and for $50, it's not a bad deal! Thanks!

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8100 Volume Keys

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