When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 18 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with your computer.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
1Shut down the computer.
2If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.
3Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
4The Dell Diagnostics can be invoked in one of two ways:
•Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press <Enter>.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
•Press and hold the <Fn> key while powering the computer on.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the optional Drivers and Utilities CD.
The computer runs the
•During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
•If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart the computer, press <Esc>; to continue to the next test, press <y>; to retest the component that failed, press <r>.
•If the
5Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility partition on your hard drive.
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Quick Reference Guide