Dell PP04X Lockups and Software Problems, External Keyboard problems, Unexpected characters

Page 92

Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist (see Diagnostics Checklist) as you perform the various checks.

NOTE: Use the integrated keyboard when running the Dell Diagnostics or the system setup program. When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

External Keyboard problems

NOTE: When you attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.

Check the keyboard cable — Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the cable.

If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.

Check the external keyboard —

1.Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.

2.Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.

3.From the Windows desktop, click Start® All Programs® Accessories® Notepad.

4.Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.

To verify that the problem is with the external keyboard, check the integrated keyboard —

1.Shut down the computer.

2.Disconnect the external keyboard.

3.Turn on the computer.

4.From the Windows desktop, click Start® All Programs® Accessories® Notepad.

5.Type some characters on the internal keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.

If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard. Contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).

Run the keyboard diagnostics tests — Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics). If the tests indicate a defective external keyboard, contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).

Unexpected characters

Disable the numeric keypad — Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the numbers lock light is not lit.

Lockups and Software Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

The computer does not start up

Ensure that the AC adapter is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet.

The computer stops responding

Image 92
Contents Dell Precision Mobile Workstation M65 Users Guide Abbreviations and AcronymsDevice status lights About Your ComputerFront View Keyboard status lights Audio connectors Left Side ViewWireless switch positions Right Side ViewBack View Bottom View Serial connectorVideo connector Back to Contents Cleaning Your Computer AppendixFCC Class B Macrovision Product NoticeFCC Notice U.S. Only Using a Battery Battery PerformanceChecking the Battery Charge Dell QuickSet Battery MeterConserving Battery Power Power Management ModesConfiguring Power Management Settings Charging the BatteryHibernate Mode Click Start Shut Down Stand byReplacing the Battery Storing a BatteryUsing Cards Installing a PC Card or ExpressCardCard Types Card BlanksRemoving a Card or Blank ExpressCardBack to Contents Using the Display Adjusting BrightnessSwitching the Video Image Setting Display Resolution and Refresh RateSwapping Primary and Secondary Displays Using the Ambient Light SensorClick Settings in the Display Properties window Page Support.dell.com Finding InformationWhat Are You Looking For? Find It Here Click Start Help and Support Premier.support.dell.comSelect Drivers & Downloads and click Go Back to Contents Glossary Device driver See driver Docking device See APRPage Page NIC See network adapter Page Video resolution See resolution System tray See notification areaBack to Contents Online Services Getting HelpObtaining Assistance Ftp.dell.comProblems With Your Order AutoTech ServiceAutomated Order-Status Service Support ServiceContacting Dell Diagnostics ChecklistBefore You Call Aruba Australia Sydney0011 Website support.euro.dell.comCayman Islands Chile SantiagoSupport website support.dell.com.cn China XiamenWebsite support.euro.dell.com Home and Small Business France Paris MontpellierCorporate Germany LangenIreland Cherrywood JamaicaWebsite support.jp.dell.com Japan KawasakiMacao Website support.ap.dell.com Malaysia PenangMexico MontserratPortugal Website support.euro.dell.com Puerto RicoSt. Kitts and Nevis St. LuciaSwitzerland Geneva Website support.ap.dell.com TaiwanWebsite support.ap.dell.com Thailand Trinidad/TobagoVenezuela A. Austin, Texas BusinessVirgin Islands Key Combinations Using the KeyboardNumeric Keypad Touch Pad Microsoft Windows Logo Key FunctionsCustomizing the Touch Pad and Track Stick Mouse Properties windowChanging the Track Stick Cap Using Multimedia Adjusting the VolumeVolume Control Window Volume Control ButtonsAdjusting the Picture Click Start Control Panel DisplayUsing Networks Physically Connecting to a Network or Broadband ModemWireless Local Area Network Wlan Network Setup WizardWhat You Need to Establish a Wlan Connection Checking Your Wireless Network CardSetting Up a New Wlan Under Pick a Help topic, click Dell User and System Guides Connecting to a Wireless Local Area NetworkDetermining the Wireless Network Device Manager Checking Your Mobile Broadband Network Card Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network WwanConnecting to a Mobile Broadband Network Dell Wi-Fi Catcher Network Locator Location Profile Settings General Mobility SettingsInternet Connection Firewall Enabling/Disabling the Dell Mobile Broadband Network CardBack to Contents Adding and Replacing Parts Before You BeginRecommended Tools Turning Off Your ComputerHard Drive Removing the Device Security Screw Media BayReturning a Hard Drive to Dell Removing and Installing Media Bay Devices Hinge CoverKeyboard MemoryPage Page Subscriber Identity Module SIM Card Wireless CardsWireless Local Area Network Wlan Cards Mobile Broadband Cards Internal Card With Bluetooth Wireless Technology Coin-Cell Battery Back to Contents Dell QuickSet Installing a Smart Card Securing Your ComputerSecurity Cable Lock Smart CardsPasswords Using a Primary/System PasswordUsing an Administrator Password FeaturesTrusted Platform Module TPM Using a Hard Drive PasswordEnabling the TPM Feature If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen Security Management SoftwareComputer Tracking Software System Setup Program Viewing the System Setup ScreensSystem Setup Screens Commonly Used SettingsPerforming a One-Time Boot Changing COM PortsEnabling the Infrared Sensor Locate Fast IR under Onboard DevicesPage Reinstalling Software What Is a Driver?Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities DriversResolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Using the Drivers and Utilities CDManually Reinstalling Drivers Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore Creating a Restore PointUndoing the Last System Restore Restoring Your Operating SystemUsing the Operating System CD Enabling System RestoreReinstalling Windows XP Before You BeginSpecifications Communications GraphicsAudio DisplayBattery KeyboardTouch Pad Track StickEnvironmental AC AdapterPhysical Traveling With Your Computer Identifying Your ComputerPacking the Computer Travel TipsBack to Contents Troubleshooting Dell Technical Update ServiceDell Diagnostics When to Use the Dell DiagnosticsDell Diagnostics Main Menu Option FunctionDrive Problems Accessing the Dell Support UtilityDell Support Utility Clicking the Dell Support IconCD and DVD drive problems Hard drive problemsProblems writing to a CD/DVD-RW drive If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding soundMail, Modem, and Internet Problems Error MessagesRun Check Disk Click Start My ComputerPage Click Start Control Panel Add or Remove Programs Ieee 1394 Device Problems Keyboard ProblemsEnsure that the Ieee 1394 device is recognized by Windows Click Start Control Panel Printers and Other HardwareLockups and Software Problems External Keyboard problemsUnexpected characters Computer does not start upOther software problems Program stops responding or crashes repeatedlySolid blue screen appears End the programMemory Problems Network ProblemsGeneral Mobile Broadband NetworkPC Card or ExpressCard Problems Power ProblemsPrinter Problems Ensuring Sufficient Power for Your ComputerDocking Power Considerations AC Power Loss While the Computer Is DockedScanner Problems Sound and Speaker ProblemsNo sound from integrated speakers No sound from external speakersTouch Pad or Mouse Problems No sound from headphonesCheck the touch pad settings Click Start Control Panel Printers and Other Hardware MouseVideo and Display Problems Adjust the power properties Search for the keywordAdjust the Windows display settings If the display is blankIf only part of the display is readable Connect an external monitor
Related manuals
Manual 162 pages 23 Kb Manual 152 pages 12.25 Kb Manual 46 pages 12.56 Kb

PP04X specifications

The Dell PP04X, commonly known as the Dell Latitude E6420, is a versatile and robust laptop that is designed for business professionals and power users alike. It combines performance, durability, and a wide array of connectivity options, making it a popular choice in the corporate world.

One of the standout features of the PP04X is its solid build quality. The laptop is constructed with a premium aluminum chassis paired with a magnesium alloy frame, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The spill-resistant keyboard provides an added layer of protection against accidental spills, making this device a reliable option for users on the go.

The Dell PP04X is powered by Intel's second-generation Core processors, providing excellent performance for multitasking and demanding applications. With options ranging from Core i3 to Core i7, users can select the level of power they need for their specific tasks. The laptop supports up to 8GB of DDR3 RAM, which contributes to its ability to handle multiple applications simultaneously without compromising speed.

In terms of storage, the Latitude E6420 offers various configurations, including traditional hard drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD), allowing users to balance performance and storage capacity based on their requirements. The inclusion of SSD options results in faster boot times and quicker file access, greatly enhancing overall productivity.

The display of the Dell PP04X is another highlight. It features a 14-inch HD screen with anti-glare technology, making it suitable for use in various lighting conditions, whether in a brightly lit office or while traveling. The high-resolution screen ensures crisp visuals, ideal for presentations and detailed graphic work.

Connectivity options on the Latitude E6420 are plentiful, featuring multiple USB ports, an HDMI output, and an ExpressCard slot for expandability. Additionally, users can opt for built-in mobile broadband capabilities to stay connected on the move.

Dell also places a strong emphasis on security in the PP04X. The laptop includes features such as a fingerprint reader, smart card reader, and optional TPM (Trusted Platform Module) for enhanced security, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected.

Overall, the Dell PP04X Latitude E6420 is an excellent choice for business users who require a durable and powerful laptop. With its blend of performance, security features, and connectivity options, it is well-suited to meet the demands of a fast-paced work environment. Whether for office use or travel, the PP04X provides a reliable and efficient computing experience.