Background

The Dell Vostro 1720, released around 2009, The 1720 is a relatively large laptop due to its 17-inch display and hull sized 10-key number pad, catering to users who prioritize screen size and comfortable typing over portability. The chassis is built with a combination of plastic and metal for a durable device. With a modular chassis, the 1720 was designed with expansion and customization in mind. The laptop is suitable for tasks such as document processing, web browsing, light media consumption, and occasional graphical work if configured with the NVIDIA GPU. Its screen size and full keyboard layout make working with spreadsheets, presentations, and multitasking easier. Although much of its original hardware is obsolete for anyone looking for modern CPU speeds and graphics, the Dell Vostro 1720 would be a great device for a younger student or a computer enthusiast who wants to use it as a testing platform.

Identification

The Vostro 1720 has some key characteristics such as a 17" screen, a full numeric keypad, and modular bays along the sides for accessories. Identifying labels are usually found on the bottom of the laptop for specific model and build information.

Technical Specifications

Processor Options

• Intel Core 2 Duo processors, options ranging from T5870 (2.0 GHz, 2MB Cache) up to T9600 (2.8 GHz, 6MB Cache).

Operating System

• Windows Vista (Home Basic, Business, or Ultimate).

• Option to downgrade to Windows XP Professional on select configurations.

Memory

• DDR2 SDRAM (800 MHz).

• Expandable up to 8GB (supports dual-channel).

Storage Options

• Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Options from 160GB to 500GB.

• Speeds: 5400 RPM or 7200 RPM depending on the configuration.

Display

• Size: 17-inch widescreen.

• Resolution Options:

  • WXGA+ (1440 x 900).

  • WUXGA (1920 x 1200) on select models.

Graphics Options

• Integrated: Intel GMA X4500HD.

• Dedicated: Optional NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS with 256MB dedicated memory for better graphics performance.

Optical Drive Options

• 8x DVD+/-RW Drive.

• Optional Blu-ray Disc Drive on some models.

Network and Wireless

• Ethernet: Integrated 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet.

• Wi-Fi Options:

  • Dell Wireless 1397 (802.11g).

  • Dell Wireless 1510 (802.11a/g/n).

• Bluetooth: Optional Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR.

Audio

• Speakers: Integrated stereo speakers.

• Microphone: Built-in microphone.

• Audio Ports: Microphone and headphone jacks.

Ports and Slots

• USB: 4 x USB 2.0 ports.

• Video Output: 1 x VGA port, 1 x HDMI port (optional in some configurations).

• Networking: 1 x RJ-45 Ethernet port, 1 x RJ-11 modem port (optional).

• Other Ports: 1 x Firewire (IEEE 1394) port.

• Card Reader: 7-in-1 memory card reader (supports SD, MMC, MS, MS Pro, xD).

Battery Options

• 6-cell Lithium-ion battery (providing up to ~4 hours of usage).

• 9-cell Lithium-ion battery for extended battery life.

Physical Dimensions and Weight

• Width: 15.5 inches (394 mm).

• Depth: 10.9 inches (276 mm).

• Height: 1.5-1.7 inches (38.5 - 44.5 mm).

• Weight: Starting at 6.8 lbs (3.1 kg) with a 6-cell battery.

Additional Features

• Webcam: Optional 2.0MP webcam.

• Keyboard: Full-size keyboard with a numeric keypad.

• Touchpad: Supports multi-touch gestures.

https://dl.dell.com/manuals/all-products/esuprt_laptop/esuprt_vostro_notebook/vostro-1720_setup%20guide_en-us.pdf

Additional Resources

Dell Laptop Forum

The Dell Community is a helpful and friendly source of information on all their product lines. This link brings you to their laptop community.

Tom's Hardware Forum

Tom's Hardware forums have a diverse and knowledgably community of helpful individuals.

Ubuntu Forums

As these systems get older, the versions of Windows that will run become unsupported by Microsoft so many users have to get creative and look at Linux based systems like Ubuntu to keep their systems running. This forum can provide a wealth of helpful guidance.

Service PDF