
•Receive status messages that tell you whether tests completed successfully
•Receive error messages if problems are detected
Starting the Dell Diagnostics
NOTICE: Only use the Dell Diagnostics to test your Dell™ computer. Using this program with other computers can result in error messages.
1Shut down and restart the computer.
2When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer through the Start menu and try again.
3When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press <Enter>.
4When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see page 47).
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
1After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want.
NOTE: The Service Tag number for your computer is located at the top of each test screen.
Option | Function |
|
|
Express Test | Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires |
| no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing |
| the problem quickly. |
Extended Test | Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically takes an hour or more and |
| requires you to answer questions periodically. |
Custom Test | Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you want to run. |
Symptom Tree | Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows you to select a test based |
| on the symptom of the problem you are having. |
|
|
2If a problem is encountered during a test, a message displaying the error code and a description of the problem appear. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.
If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see page 83).
Advanced Troubleshooting
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