Alienware M18X Answers to Common Problems, Computer Startup Problems, Computer fails the Post

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If failures are detected during ePSA, write down the error code(s) and contact Alienware (for more information, see “Contacting Alienware“ on page 70).

If the ePSA completes successfully, the following message appears “Do you want to run the remaining memory tests? This will take about 30 minutes or more. Do you want to continue? (Recommended).

If you are experiencing memory issues, press <y>, else press <n>. The following message appears: “Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment complete.” Press <o> to reboot your computer.

Answers to Common Problems

Computer Startup Problems

The computer fails the POST

The Power On Self Test (POST) ensures that the computer meets all the necessary system requirements and that all hardware is working properly before starting the remainder of the boot process. If the computer passes the POST, the computer will continue to start normally. However, if the computer fails the POST, the computer will generate a single beep to indicate a general failure and an error message will be displayed. For assistance, contact Alienware Technical Support (see “Contacting Alienware” on page 70).

The computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears

CAUTION: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.

If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 6 seconds to turn off, your computer, and then restart it.

NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the instructions on the screen.

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CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

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Contents Mobile Manual Page Contents System Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 對 Page Page Setting UP Your Laptop Placing Your Laptop Before Setting Up Your LaptopProduct Documentation and Media Connect the AC Adapter Connect the Network Cable Optional Set Up Microsoft Windows Set Up WirelessHD Optional Set Up Wireless Display OptionalConnect to the Internet Optional Setting Up a Wired ConnectionSetting Up a Wireless Connection Setting Up Your Internet Connection Setting UP Your Laptop Getting to Know Your Laptop Left View Features Right View Features Back View Features Display Features Computer Base and Keyboard Features Status Lights Media Control KeysPower Button On AC adapterFI Suspend Mode Function KeysGetting to Know Your Laptop Using Your Laptop Connecting a Display Alienware Command CenterConnecting External Displays Using Removable Media and Cards Extending the DesktopUsing the Wireless Control Using the Optical DriveUsing the Integrated Camera Turning the Camera On and OffUnderstanding Power Consumption Battery PackPower Management Changing the Application Profile Settings Customizing Your Power SettingsReducing Power Consumption Free Fall SensorEntering System Setup Configuring the BiosSystem Setup System Setup ScreensSystem Setup Options CPUIntel SpeedStep Sata Hard Drive DMC CD/DVD/BD Installing Additional or Replacement Components Before You Begin Turning Off Your ComputerBefore Working Inside Your Computer Replacing the Battery Pack Upgrading or Replacing Memory Removing the Memory ModulesMemory module Notch Spring locks Memory-module connector Tab Upgrading or Replacing the Hard Drives Removing the Hard DrivesDisconnect the interposer from the hard drives Screws Secondary hard drive HDD1 Primary hard drive HDD0 Installing Additional or Replacement Components Troubleshooting Backup and General Maintenance Basic Hints and TipsSoftware Diagnostic Tools Enhanced Pre-Boot System AssessmentComputer fails the Post Answers to Common ProblemsComputer Startup Problems Computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appearsProgram stops responding or crashes repeatedly Software ProblemsOther software problems Run Check Disk Hard Drive ProblemsAllow the computer to cool before turning it on Power Problems Memory ProblemsDisplay Problems Memory errors detected on startupTroubleshooting System Recovery AlienRespawn AlienRespawn BasicDell DataSafe Online Backup Optional Upgrading to AlienRespawn ProfessionalMy Dell Downloads Specifications Specifications USB Maxim MAX9736A Specifications Specifications Relative humidity maximum Specifications Appendix Electrostatic Discharge ESD Warning Computer SetupComputer Use Replacement Components or Accessories General Safety PrecautionsWhen You Should Contact Alienware Contacting Alienware WebsitesAppendix 0P38V4A00