Restoring Dell settings after Vista reinstall

Hello,

You will not be able to get all the special features back, but the list below will help in getting most functions working on your system.

Pay special attention to the note about booting into safe mode if you already started installing drivers.

Note: Some devices may not function properly if the drivers are installed out of order.

Install your version of Windows.

Install the following software and drivers in the order listed below.

***** 1.***** Desktop System Software (DSS) or Notebook System Software (NSS) - A vital utility that provides critical updates and patches for the operating system. If you are reinstalling the operating system or updating all the computer’s drivers, it is imperative that this software be installed first.
This is located under the System and Configuration Utilities Category on the Drivers and Downloads page. The DSS or NSS may not be required for some systems that shipped with Windows Vista installed, or older systems that don't offer DSS or NSS files. But if your download page has a DSS or NSS file, "It is required".
2. Chipset - Helps Windows control system board components and controllers. This is located under the Chipset Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
3. Video Adapter - Enhances video performance. This is located under the Video Adapter Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
4. Network Interface Card (NIC) - Enhances the network controller for Internet or network access. This is located under the Network Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
5. Audio Adapter - Enables and enhances the audio controller. This is located under the Audio Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
6. Modem - Allows dialup capability. This is located under the Communication Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
7. Wireless Network Card - Enables and enhances the wireless network controller. This is located under the Network Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
8. Touchpad, Pointer, Trackstick, Mice, and Keyboards - Enhances the pointing device features. This is located under the Mouse & Keyboards Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
9. Other Devices
* Bluetooth Module
This is located under the Communication Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
* Dell Wireless Mobile Broadband Cards
This is located under the Communication Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
* PCMCIA/Smartcard controller
This is located under the Security Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

Dell drivers and downloads page http://support.dell.com/support/downloads/. Input your service tag number to get the required drivers for your system, 'as shipped'.

NOTE: If your system download page offers a DSS or NSS file in the 'System and Configuration Utilities' Category. And you have already tried to install some drivers, you will need to reboot in Safe Mode to install the DSS or NSS file, and the chipset. Then reboot the system and install the rest of the drivers in the correct order.

You are wonderful. Thank you very much indeed.

Snow

Dell Desktop System Software   Release Date: 15/05/2007 Version: 1.17.1, A09   But when I change it to look for drivers for Vista 32bit I do not have any such DSS available. I am planning for a reinstall of my Vista HP 32bit this week end & your posting has created concerns and I am now anxious to go as planned. Would you be kind enough to help me understand. Kind Regards Snow

Hello,

If no DSS is shown for the version of Windows that you will be installing, none is required and you will start the install list with number 2, the Chipset file. Just as the green text says.

By the way I just realised your site. I like it. I will visit that site more often.

Snow

You're welcome, Glad to be of service. :emotion-15:

Hi, I reinstalled the system about a month ago so I'm not sure about the exact driver installation order, but I'm pretty sure the NSS and chipset drivers were installed first. Could you be more specific about the features that cannot be restored?  The most important thing for me are the volume controls, I'll be willing to reinstall the whole thing to get them working although I'd rather not burn another half a day on it.

Hello,

There are two system files that were required to be installed first in this system with XP. The regular NSS, and another marked as Urgent called system software.

The things that would not be included would be Dell wallpaper, Dell features shown when you right click on My Computer. Special items that Dell put on the system to make it pretty, desktop themes, or diagnostics software and the like.

The touchpad controls and playback and other buttons may not work under an XP install. If you look under the 'Applications' tab you will find web cam, and Quickset. The quickset might enable your volume control and buttons. I would stay away from all the others in that group unless you require the roxio software.

The Audio download might also help if you have not already done that. There is also a touchpad file, but I'm sure that you have already installed what you think you need.

Hi,

I reinstalled the system about a month ago so I'm not sure about the exact driver installation order, but I'm pretty sure the NSS and chipset drivers were installed first.

Could you be more specific about the features that cannot be restored?  The most important thing for me are the volume controls, I'll be willing to reinstall the whole thing to get them working although I'd rather not burn another half a day on it.

Hi,

The problems are with Vista ultimate not XP.

Thanx again.