Dell 2500 manual Finding Software Solutions, Installing and Configuring Software, Using Software

Page 28

Back to Contents Page

Finding Software Solutions

Dell™ PowerEdge™ 2500 Systems Installation and Troubleshooting Guide

Installing and Configuring Software

Using Software

Because most systems have several application programs installed in addition to the operating system, isolating a software problem can be confusing. Software errors can also appear to be hardware malfunctions at first.

Software problems can result from the following circumstances:

Improper installation or configuration of a program

Input errors

Device drivers that may conflict with certain application programs

Interrupt conflicts between devices

You can confirm that a system problem is caused by software by running the Dell Diagnostics. If all tests in the test group are completed successfully, the problem is most likely caused by software.

This section provides some general guidelines for analyzing software problems. For detailed troubleshooting information on a particular program, see the documentation that accompanied the software or consult the support service for the software.

Installing and Configuring Software

Use virus-scanning software to check newly acquired programs and files for viruses before installing the programs on the system's hard-disk drive. Viruses can quickly use all available system memory, damage and/or destroy data stored on the hard-disk drive, and permanently affect the performance of the programs they infect. Several commercial virus-scanning programs are available for purchase.

Before installing a program, read its documentation to learn how the program works, what hardware it requires, and what its defaults are. A program usually includes installation instructions in its accompanying documentation and a software installation routine.

The software installation routine assists users in transferring the appropriate program files to the system's hard-disk drive. Installation instructions may provide details about how to configure the operating system to successfully run the program. Always read the installation instructions before running a program's installation routine.

When you run the installation routine, be prepared to respond to prompts for information about how the system's operating system is configured, what type of system you have, and what peripherals are connected to the system.

Using Software

The following subsections discuss errors that can occur as a result of software operation or configuration.

Error Messages

Error messages can be produced by an application program, the operating system, or the system. Messages and Codes discusses the error messages that are generated by the system. If you receive an error message that is not listed in "Indicators, Messages, and Codes," check the operating system or application program documentation.

Input Errors

If a specific key or set of keys is pressed at the wrong time, a program may give you unexpected results. See the documentation that came with the application program to make sure that the values or characters you are entering are valid.

Make sure that the operating environment is set up to accommodate the programs you use. Keep in mind that whenever you change the parameters of the system's operating environment, you may affect the successful operation of the programs. Sometimes, after modifying the operating environment, you may need to reinstall a program that no longer runs properly.

Program Conflicts

Some programs may leave portions of their setup information behind, even though you have exited from them. As a result, other programs cannot run. Rebooting the system can confirm whether these programs are the cause of the problem.

Device drivers, which are programs that use specialized subroutines, can cause problems with the system. For example, a variation in the way the data is sent to the

Image 28
Contents Initial release January Jumpers and Connectors Jumpers-A General ExplanationSystem Board Jumpers JumpersScsi Backplane Board Connectors System Board ConnectorsJumper Setting Description Interposer Board Connectors Disabling a Forgotten PasswordBack to Contents Abbreviations and Acronyms Adjusted decibels Direct current CelsiusCold cathode fluorescent tube Compact disc Compact disc read-only memoryDirect memory access Dynamic random-access memoryError checking and correction Expanded Memory SpecificationElectrostatic discharge Enhanced small-device interfaceEmbedded server management Fahrenheit File allocation tableIdentification Integrated drive electronicsInterrupt request Industry-Standard ArchitectureMaster boot record Low voltage differential Meters MilliamperesMilliampere-hours Megabytes Megabits Megabits per secondNonvolatile random-access memory Power-on self-testPower-supply distribution board Nickel-metal hydrideRandom-access memory Random-access memory digital-to-analog converterResource Configuration Utility Synchronous dynamic random-access memoryStatic random-access memory System setup utilityUninterruptible power supply Universal Service Ordering Code VoltsEXtended Memory Specification Watt-hoursExtended memory manager Zero insertion forceSafety, Regulatory, and Warranty Information IntroductionOther Documents You May Need Getting HelpBack to Contents Bezel Indicators Indicators, Messages, and CodesFront-Panel Indicators and Features Back-Panel Features Scsi Hard-Disk Drive Indicator CodesRedundant Power Supply Features Condition Indicator CodeAll three drive status indicators are off Drive failedSystem Messages Indicator Indicator CodeMessage Cause Corrective Action Nonbootable diskette is preventing the system from booting Diskette drive From a bootable diskette Nvramclr jumper isInstalled Using the System Setup Program, in the Users Guide forFaulty Keyboard cable connector loose orFaulty application Restart the application Faulty diskette, diskette/CD-ROMFaulty diskette or hard-disk drive Troubleshooting Your SystemDefective battery or faulty chip Incorrect Time or Date settings orSystem Beep Codes Code Cause Corrective ActionDiagnostics Messages Alert Log Messages From the Dell OpenManage Server AgentPage Installing and Configuring Software Finding Software SolutionsUsing Software Avoiding Interrupt Assignment Conflicts IRQ Line Used By/AvailableRunning the Dell Diagnostics Features of the Dell DiagnosticsWhen to Use the Dell Diagnostics Starting the Dell DiagnosticsHow to Use the Dell Diagnostics How to Use the Device Groups MenuDevice Groups Menu Options Run TestsConfig Error MessagesSelect Troubleshooting Your System Safety First-For You and Your SystemChecking Specific System Problems External ConnectionsStart-Up Routine System OrientationRemoving and Replacing the Front Bezel Look/Listen for ActionRemoving and Replacing the System Cover Removing the Front BezelReplacing the Front Bezel Removing the System CoverTroubleshooting the Video Subsystem Troubleshooting the KeyboardChecking the Equipment Replacing the System CoverTroubleshooting a Serial I/O Device Troubleshooting the Basic I/O FunctionsDevice connected to one of the serial ports is not working Troubleshooting a Parallel Printer Troubleshooting a USB DeviceTroubleshooting the Integrated NIC Parallel printer is not workingInside the System NIC cannot communicate with netTroubleshooting a Wet System Troubleshooting a Damaged SystemResponding to a Dell OpenManage Server Agent Alert Message Liquid spills Splashes Excessive humidityTroubleshooting Redundant Power Supplies Troubleshooting the System BatteryTroubleshooting a Cooling Fan Troubleshooting Expansion Cards Removing a Cooling FanTroubleshooting System Memory Faulty memory module Faulty system boardTroubleshooting the Video Subsystem Troubleshooting the System BoardTroubleshooting the Diskette Drive Error message indicating a system board problemTroubleshooting a CD-ROM Drive Troubleshooting an External Scsi Tape DriveTroubleshooting Hard-Disk Drives ¡ Hard drive failure indicator on the control panel lightsTroubleshooting an Integrated RAID Controller Troubleshooting a RAID Controller CardBack to Contents Installing System Board Options Connector or Socket DescriptionRAID battery connector System battery connectorReplacing the Front Fan Assembly Removing the Front Fan AssemblyRemoving and Replacing Fan Assemblies Replacing the Back Fan Assembly Removing the Back Fan AssemblyRemoving and Replacing Individual Fans Installing an Expansion Card Expansion CardsRemoving an Expansion Card Removing and Installing the Cooling ShroudRemoving the Cooling Shroud Removing and Installing a Power Supply Installing the Cooling ShroudMemory Module Installation Guidelines Memory Upgrade KitsAdding Memory Total Desired Memory Performing a Memory Upgrade128 MB 64 MB None 256 MB 512 MB Installing Memory Modules Removing Memory ModulesMicroprocessor Upgrades Adding or Replacing a MicroprocessorMaintain proper thermal conditions Unpack the new microprocessor14. Pin-1 Identification 17. Installing the VRM 18. Installing the RAID Controller Memory Module Activating the Integrated RAID ControllerInstalling the RAID Battery Removing the RAID BatteryReplacing the System Battery 21. Installing the Battery Installing the Peripheral Bay Installing DrivesRemoving the Peripheral Bay Scsi Configuration Information Interface CablesScsi ID Numbers Device TerminationInstalling a Tape Drive That Uses a Controller Card Connecting an External Scsi Tape Drive Installing Scsi Hard-Disk DrivesInstalling the Tape Drive Before You BeginInstalling a Scsi Hard-Disk Drive Removing a Scsi Hard-Disk DriveInstalling a Dell Host Adapter Card Installing a Scsi Backplane Daughter CardConfiguring the Boot Device Installing a Scsi Backplane Board Daughter CardGetting Help Help OverviewTechnical Assistance Help ToolsProblems With Your Order AutoTech ServiceDell Contact Numbers Before You CallCountry Code City Code Australia Sydney Austria ViennaWebsite http//support.euro.dell.com Belgium BrusselsChile Santiago China XiamenDenmark Horsholm 009Germany Langen Hong KongIreland Cherrywood Italy Milan Home and Small BusinessWebsite http//support.jp.dell.com Korea Seoul Latin AmericaLuxembourg MacauNew Zealand Norway LysakerPoland Warsaw PortugalSweden Upplands Vasby Switzerland GenevaTaiwan ThailandBack to Contents Back to Contents Figures Tables

2500 specifications

The Dell 2500 is a remarkable embodiment of innovation in the world of computing. Renowned for its robust performance and versatility, the Dell 2500 caters to a wide array of users, from businesses to educational institutions, and even casual home users. Equipped with cutting-edge features and technologies, it stands out in the competitive market of laptops and desktops.

At the core of the Dell 2500 is its powerful processor options. Users can choose from various Intel Core i5 and i7 configurations, ensuring that they have the computing power required for demanding applications, multitasking, and intensive workloads. The speed and reliability of these processors are complemented by ample RAM, which ranges between 8GB and 16GB, optimizing performance during intense usage scenarios such as gaming, video editing, or data analysis.

One of the key characteristics of the Dell 2500 is its stunning display. Featuring a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, the laptop or desktop’s screen delivers vivid colors and sharp images. This visual clarity is further enhanced by LED backlighting, which not only brightens the display but also improves energy efficiency, making the device suitable for both work and entertainment.

Another noteworthy aspect of the Dell 2500 is its storage solutions. Equipped with high-speed SSDs, users enjoy quick boot times, faster data access, and improved overall system responsiveness. The Dell 2500 offers different storage capacities, allowing users to choose a configuration that meets their needs without sacrificing performance.

In terms of connectivity, the Dell 2500 features a wide array of ports, including USB Type-C, USB 3.0, HDMI, and Ethernet, ensuring that users can connect to versatile peripherals and networks seamlessly. Additionally, the laptop offers Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, providing lightning-fast wireless connectivity, which is crucial for users who rely on cloud-based applications and streaming services.

Security features on the Dell 2500 include biometric options such as a fingerprint reader, alongside traditional password protection to safeguard user data. With diverse customization options, users can tailor the device to their specific use cases, ensuring a personalized experience.

In summary, the Dell 2500 combines powerful performance, stunning visuals, ample storage, extensive connectivity options, and robust security measures to cater to a diverse range of users. Its thoughtful design and innovative technologies make it a top contender in today’s computing landscape, ensuring that it meets the demands of modern work and play.