Dell SX260 Program crashes repeatedly, Solid blue screen appears, Other software problems

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A program crashes repeatedly

NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.

Check the software documentation — Many software manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you solve the problem. Ensure that you properly installed and configured the program. If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

A solid blue screen appears

Turn the computer off — If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or a proper shutdown, press the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Press the power button again to restart the computer. The chkdsk program automatically runs during the start-up process. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Other software problems

Check the software documentation or contact the software manufacturer for troubleshooting information

Back up your files immediately — If your computer has a CD-RW drive or a zip drive installed, see the drive's documentation for instructions.

Ensure that you have not made an error while entering data — See the program documentation to make sure that the values or characters you are entering are valid.

Check for viruses — Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive, floppy disks, or CDs.

Restart the computer — Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut down your computer through the Start menu instead of pressing the power button. Otherwise, you may lose data.

Check for compatibility —

Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer and that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information.

If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

Ensure that you properly installed and configured the program — See the software documentation for information. If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

Run the Dell DiagnosticsRun the System Board Devices tests. If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a software problem.

Check for device driver conflicts —

Verify that the program's device drivers do not conflict with certain programs.

Call the software manufacturer for technical assistance.

Other technical problems

Go to the Dell Support website —

Go to support.dell.com for help with general usage, installation, and troubleshooting questions.The support website offers several different tools to help you, such as Dell Forum—a chat room where you can communicate with other Dell customers about their computers and gain access to technical support through e-mail.

Call Dell — If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell Support website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance.

General hardware problems

If your computer exhibits one or more of the following symptoms, a device conflict may exist:

Your computer locks up, particularly while using a specific device.

A recently added device does not work.

Memory parity errors occur on parity-enabled computers.

Unintelligible characters print from the printer.

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Contents Abbreviations and Acronyms Dell OptiPlex SX260 Systems Users GuideFCC Notices U.S. Only Regulatory NoticesClass a Class B IC Notice Canada OnlyFCC Identification Information Energy Star Compliance CE Notice European UnionSimplified Chinese Class a Warning Notice China Only Energy Star EmblemVcci Class a ITE Regulatory Mark Class a ITEClass B ITE MIC Notice Republic of Korea OnlyClass a Device Class B Device Polish Center for Testing and Certification NoticeBsmi Notice Taiwan Only NOM Information Mexico Only Back to Contents Warranty and Return Policy Front View About Your ComputerBack View Inside Your Computer Back-Panel ConnectorsStandard Orientations OrientationsChassis Stand Attaching the Cable Cover Cable CoverRemoving the Cable Cover Mounting PlateAttaching the Computer to the Mounting Plate Removing the Computer from the Mounting Plate Connecting the Power Adapter Back to Contents Diagnostic Lights Advanced TroubleshootingLight Problem Description Suggested Resolution Pattern Code Cause Action Beep CodesWhen to Use the Dell Diagnostics Dell DiagnosticsStarting the Dell Diagnostics Dell Diagnostics Main Menu Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard DriveOption Function Reinstalling Microsoft Windows XP Reinstalling DriversBefore You Reinstall Tab FunctionBooting From the Operating System CD Reinstalling Windows XPWindows XP Setup Click Performance and Maintenance, and then click System Reinstalling Microsoft WindowsResolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities Windows XPWindows Page LegacySelect Technology Control Advanced FeaturesManageability Alert Standard FormatSecurity Option SettingsDell OpenManage Client Instrumentation Chassis Intrusion DetectionSystem Password Password ProtectionAssigning a System Password Deleting or Changing an Existing System Password Typing Your System PasswordIf Password Status is set to Unlocked If Password Status is set to LockedAssigning a Setup Password Setup PasswordOperating Your Computer With a Setup Password Enabled Deleting or Changing an Existing Setup PasswordDisabling a Forgotten Password and Setting a New Password System SetupEntering System Setup Keys Action System Setup ScreensBoot Options Boot Device MenuSystem Setup and Diagnostics Options Changing Boot Sequence for Future BootsFastboot System Setup OptionsCPU Information HDD PriorityJumper Setting Description Jumper SettingsHyper-Threading Power ButtonHung Computer Click Hardware and click Device Manager Battery Properly dispose of the old battery Back to Contents Before Cleaning Your Computer Cleaning Your ComputerComputer, Keyboard, and Monitor MouseCDs and DVDs Module Bay Installing a CD/DVD Device When Your Computer Is Turned OffMicrosoft Windows XP Installing a CD/DVD Device When Your Computer Is RunningPage Windows Back to Contents Replacing the Computer Cover Removing the Computer Cover Documentation for Your Computer Ergonomic Computing Habits Back to Contents What Are You Looking For? Find It Here Finding Information for Your ComputerDell Support website Getting Help Online ServicesTechnical Assistance Automated Order-Status Service AutoTech ServiceTechnical Support Service Ftp.dell.comDiagnostics Checklist Problems With Your OrderBefore You Call Contacting Dell Bermuda Belgium Brussels Website support.euro.dell.comBolivia BrazilDominica Denmark Copenhagen Website support.euro.dell.comDominican Republic EcuadorIreland Cherrywood Website support.euro.dell.com IndiaItaly Milan Website support.euro.dell.com JamaicaMacao Luxembourg Website support.euro.dell.comMalaysia Penang MexicoPeru PanamaPoland Warsaw Website support.euro.dell.com PortugalSweden Upplands Vasby Website support.euro.dell.com Customer Care website dell.co.uk/lca/customerservicesSwitzerland Geneva Website support.euro.dell.com TaiwanVirgin Islands BusinessVenezuela C D E F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W X Z GlossaryDevice driver See driver Page Page Page Video resolution See resolution Back to Contents Hard Drive Page ALERT! Cover was previously removed Back to Contents Removing a Memory Module MemoryAdding a Memory Module Memory connectors on system board ConnectorMemory module NotchBack to Contents Adding and Removing Parts Microprocessor Page Page ALERT! Cover was previously removed Back to Contents General When Working Inside Your ComputerProtecting Against Electrostatic Discharge Battery DisposalErgonomic Computing Habits Battery Problems Solving ProblemsPower Light Problem Description Suggested Resolution System LightsFloppy drive problems Drive ProblemsCD drive problems Problems writing to a CD-RW driveDVD drive problems Repairing a Wet ComputerHard drive problems Test the hard driveDropped or Damaged Computer Error MessagesCheck the memory and cable connections Click Control Panel Click Add or Remove ProgramsGeneral failure The operating example, Printer out of paper No boot sector on hard-disk driveKeyboard failure Computer stops responding General ProblemsProgram stops responding End the programOther technical problems Other software problemsGeneral hardware problems Program crashes repeatedlyMemory Problems Keyboard ProblemsMouse Problems Power Problems Network ProblemsSerial or Parallel Device Problems Printer ProblemsVerify the printer cable connections Verify that the printer is recognized by WindowsNo sound from headphones Sound and Speaker ProblemsReinstall the audio sound driver See Dell Diagnostics No sound from speakersVideo and Monitor Problems System Board ProblemsIf the screen is blank If the screen is difficult to readClick Appearance and Themes Adjust the Windows display settingsTechnical Specifications Key Combinations PowerControls and Lights PhysicalBack to Contents System Board Components Overview Microsoft Windows XP FeaturesNew User Interface Help and Support CenterClean Desktop Wizard Switching to Classic ViewClick Clean Desktop Now Click PropertiesNotification Area Cleanup Files and Settings Transfer WizardApplication and Device Compatibility Taskbar GroupingUsing System Restore System RestoreScheduled Automatic Restore Points Event-Triggered Restore Points Restore ProcessManual Restore Points How to Use Fast User Switching User Accounts and Fast User SwitchingWhat Happens When a Fast User Switch Occurs? Driver RollbackHow to Turn Off Fast User Switching Special Considerations With Fast User SwitchingHow to Add Users Click Apply OptionsClick checklist for creating a network Network Setup WizardHome and Small Office Networking Internet Connection FirewallBack to Contents

SX260 specifications

The Dell SX260 is a compact and versatile desktop solution designed to meet the needs of various business environments. This small form factor PC offers a range of features and technologies that make it a popular choice for organizations looking to maximize their workspace efficiency.

One of the standout characteristics of the SX260 is its compact size. Measuring just a fraction of the volume of traditional desktop PCs, the SX260 can easily fit on a desk, or it can be mounted behind a monitor to save space. This makes it particularly suitable for environments where desk space is at a premium, such as in call centers or small offices.

The SX260 is powered by Intel processors, providing reliable performance for everyday computing tasks. Users can expect smooth multitasking capabilities thanks to the efficient processing power, whether they are running applications for word processing, spreadsheets, or web browsing. The system can be equipped with various configurations, allowing businesses to select the right amount of RAM and storage to suit their specific needs.

In terms of connectivity, the SX260 offers a comprehensive suite of ports, including USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 options, as well as audio and Ethernet connections. This ensures that users can easily connect a variety of peripherals, from printers to external storage devices, enhancing overall productivity. Additionally, the device supports both wired and wireless networking, allowing for flexible connectivity options across different office setups.

The Dell SX260 also showcases energy-efficient technologies. With its low power consumption design, it not only reduces operating costs but also contributes to a smaller carbon footprint. Companies looking for a more sustainable computing solution will find the SX260 to be an appealing option.

Security features are another significant aspect of the SX260. It can be integrated with security technologies such as TPM (Trusted Platform Module) which helps protect sensitive data through hardware-based encryption. This is essential for businesses that prioritize data integrity and want to safeguard against unauthorized access.

In conclusion, the Dell SX260 combines compact design, reliable performance, versatile connectivity, energy efficiency, and strong security features. These characteristics make it an ideal choice for small businesses or offices seeking a powerful yet space-saving desktop solution that can effectively meet their daily computing demands.