Dell LT System manual Troubleshooting, Common Problems

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APPENDIX B

Troubleshooting

This chapter describes how to troubleshoot computer problems.

Common Problems

Problems with your computer can be caused by something as minor as an unplugged power cord or as major as a damaged hard disk drive. The information in this troubleshooting section is designed to help you find and solve minor problems. If you still have a problem after trying all the suggested remedies in this chapter, contact your service representative.

The problems that you might encounter can be divided into two basic categories: hardware and software. Hardware problems can be further divided into being of an electrical or a mechanical nature. You will know you have a hardware problem if, for example, the screen is blank, or the computer cannot recognize the disk drives.

Software problems can occur at several levels. Both your operating system and your software application programs are capable of generating errors and error messages. If you encounter a software error, try to determine if the error message is from your operating system or from an application program, and refer to the appropriate manual for possible remedies.

You can also refer to the operating system manual or Windows Help program to solve the problem. To access the Help program, select Help from the Start menu. It also gives you Troubleshooting tips and an Index.

Successful troubleshooting is the result of careful observation, deductive reasoning, and an organized approach to solving the problem. If you encounter a problem, begin by performing a careful visual inspection. Check the exterior of the computer first. If no lights are displayed, check the battery charge or power outlet, the plug and power cord, and any power switches that may affect your computer. If the

Troubleshooting B-1

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Contents Dell Latitude LT System Edition CopyrightTrademarks Declaration of Conformity FCC StatementAbout the Modem Copyright Viii Blue Neutral Brown Live Page Class B for typical domestic areas CE NoticeXii Usage Safety PrecautionsGeneral LocationDischarging Battery Pack PrecautionsHandling ChargingModem Precautions Recording Important Information Manual Conventions Xviii Front Overview of ComputerRight Left Rear Bottom Xxii Table of Contents Security Features Turning Power On Quick SetupDell Latitude LT System User’s Guide Properties Dialog Box in Windows Setting Up the Windows Operating SystemShutting Down the System Basic Operations Choosing Power SourceAbout the Power Indicators Indicator Light MeaningPower Switch Resetting the SystemUsing the AC Adapter Warm BootReset Switch Using the Glide PadClick, Double-click, and Right-click Using the Glide PadPlace Your Fingertip Move Your FingertipWindows Logo Keys Using the KeyboardChanging the Configuration ScrollConnecting External Floppy Disk Drive Unit Using External Floppy Disk Drive UnitHandling Floppy Disks Removing External Floppy Disk Drive UnitInserting and Removing a Floppy Disk InsertingRemoving Backing Up Data Formatting a Floppy DiskDell Latitude LT System User’s Guide Standard Battery Pack Battery and Power ManagementChecking the Battery Level Charging the Battery Pack Initializing the Battery PackLow Battery Indication Changing the Battery Pack Connecting External Battery Pack Optional External Battery PackRemoving External Battery Pack Disposing of the Battery Charging External Battery PackInitializing External Battery Pack Setting in the Setup Utility Power ManagementStopping Power Supply to the Hard Disk Stopping Power Supply to the DisplaySuspend Modes Before Suspending the SystemEntering the Suspend Modes Resuming From Suspend-to-Disk Mode Resuming From Suspend-to-RAM ModeSetup Utility Disabling Power ManagementDell Latitude LT System User’s Guide Using Peripherals Connecting a Peripheral DevicePeripherals Peripheral Connection Overview Inserting a PC Card PC CardEjecting a PC Card Connecting the Optional External CD-ROM Drive Using a PS/2 MouseKeyboard/Mouse Using a Serial Mouse DisplayDisplaying the Screen on an External Monitor Switching the Display Changing Resolution and Number of ColorsResolutions and Colors you can choose Audio System Connecting Audio EquipmentConnecting Microphone To output the computer’s audio signal to audio equipmentPrinter Setting the Setup UtilityInstalling a Printer Driver USB DeviceRS-232C Device Setting for Infrared Communication Communication FunctionsInfrared Communication Communicating With a Personal Computer IR ModeLogical Port Turning Off the IR CommunicationBuilt-in Modem not available in some countries Connecting the Modem to a Telephone LineSetting Communications Software Setting Communication InformationWhen setting items in the Setup Utility Security FeaturesPasswords Supervisor Password and User PasswordIf you share the computer with others Setting the PasswordDeleting the Password If you use the computer personallyPreventing Infection of Computer Viruses Security Slot Entering and Exiting the Setup Utility Setup UtilityRunning the Setup Utility Contents of the Setup UtilityUsing the Setup Utility Main Menu Advanced Menu Security Menu Power Down after, Video Power Down after and Auto Suspend Power MenuBuilt-in modem may not be available in some countries Exit MenuDell Latitude LT System User’s Guide Getting Help Help ToolsWorld Wide Web Sales@dell.com AutoTech ServiceFtp.dell.com Support@us.dell.comTechFax Service TechConnect BBSAutomated Order-Status System Problems With Your Order Technical Support ServiceBefore You Call Contacting DellInternational Dialing Codes International Country Country City Access Code City CodeDell Contact Numbers Australia SydneyAustria Vienna Belgium Brussels BruneiCanada North York, Ontario Denmark Horsholm Chili SantiagoChina Xiamen Czech Republic PragueFinland Helsinki France Paris/MontpellierGermany Langen Ireland Bray Hong KongLatin America Italy MilanJapan Kawasaki Korea SeoulLuxembourg MacauMalaysia Penang Mexico Colonia Granada Netherlands AmsterdamNew Zealand Norway Lysaker Poland WarsawSingapore Singapore South Africa Johannesburg Spain MadridSweden Upplands Vasby Switzerland Geneva TaiwanThailand Bracknell A. Austin, TexasDell Home and Small Business Group Spare Parts Sales Toll free DellWare Dell Latitude LT System User’s Guide Maintenance and Specifications MaintenanceCleaning the Computer Traveling With the Computer Parts Specifications SpecificationsOptions Common Problems TroubleshootingQuestion Why doesnt the power switch function? Trouble When StartingTrouble With Display Question Why is the screen blank?Trouble With Floppy Disks Trouble With Hard DiskTrouble With Peripherals Trouble With Keyboard/Glide PadTrouble With Communication Other Troubles Question Why is the date and/or time incorrect?Dell Latitude LT System User’s Guide Limited One-Year Warranty U.S. and Canada Only General Provisions Total Satisfaction Return Policy U.S. and Canada Only Dell Latitude LT System User’s Guide Previous Products SoftwareAdditional Information Dell Latitude LT System User’s Guide Index IndexDell Latitude LT System User’s Guide Year 2000 compliance, C-5

LT System specifications

The Dell LT System represents an innovative approach to data center and enterprise computing solutions, designed to meet the growing demands for efficiency, scalability, and performance. As organizations increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, the LT System stands out with its cutting-edge technologies and features that offer reliability and flexibility.

One of the primary characteristics of the Dell LT System is its modular architecture. This design allows businesses to configure and scale their systems according to specific requirements, enabling the seamless addition of resources as needed. The modularity not only maximizes performance but also minimizes downtime, which is crucial for maintaining business continuity.

The LT System is equipped with advanced processing capabilities, featuring high-performance processors that ensure rapid data processing and optimal multitasking. With support for the latest Intel or AMD architectures, this system can handle resource-intensive applications, making it suitable for workloads such as virtualization, data analytics, and cloud services.

Another significant aspect of the Dell LT System is its robust storage options. It offers flexible configurations, including all-flash and hybrid storage solutions, which enhance data access speeds and reliability. With capabilities for rapid data retrieval and a range of storage types, businesses have the option to customize their data management strategies to achieve the best performance outcomes.

In terms of connectivity, the LT System supports various networking standards, enabling seamless integration into existing IT infrastructures. With high-speed Ethernet and support for modern networking protocols, organizations can ensure that their systems communicate efficiently while maintaining security and reliability.

The Dell LT System also emphasizes energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Designed with energy-saving technologies, it helps organizations reduce their operational costs while minimizing their carbon footprint. This focus on sustainability aligns with global efforts to adopt greener computing practices.

Additionally, the LT System is backed by Dell’s superior support services. Customers benefit from comprehensive warranty options, proactive management, and expert technical assistance, ensuring minimal disruptions in operations.

In summary, the Dell LT System combines modularity, processing power, versatile storage, advanced connectivity, energy efficiency, and strong support, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking to enhance their IT capabilities while preparing for future growth. This innovative solution meets the varied needs of modern enterprises, positioning them for success in an increasingly digital world.