First of all, I found the answer myself (here is the answer: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q257199).

Secondly, this is directly related to my mouse and keyboard driver, see my error message below:

The device driver for the 'Standard 101/102-Key or Microsoft Natural PS/2 Keyboard' device is preventing the machine from entering standby.  Please, close all applications and try again.  If the problem persists, you may need to update this driver.

I don't understand why I cannot post here?!?

You can post here, but this forum is most often visited by people who know an awful lot about Dimension Desktop computers, but will not likely know too much about laptop computers.  The Inspiron forums, on the other hand, are where the people that know about laptop computers are more likely to hang out.

Steve

Thanks for the fix.  I had the same problem with entering standby and I have an i1100 notebook.   I also found a fix for the conflict I was having with Adobe Type Manager at http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/detail.jsp?ftp1D=1552  By the way I found this using the advanced search.