30 About Your System
Warning Messages
A warning message alerts you to a possible problem and prompts you to respond before the system
continues a task. For example, before you format a diskette, a message will warn you that you may lose all
data on the diskette. Warning messages usually interrupt the task and require you to respond by typing y
(yes) or n (no).
NOTE: Warning messages are generated by either the application or the operating system. For more information,
see the documentation that accompanied the operating system or application.
Diagnostics Messages
When you run system diagnostics, an error message may result. Diagnostic error messages are not
covered in this section. Record the message on a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist in "Getting Help" on
page 125, and then follow the instructions in that section for obtaining technical assistance.
The following DIMMs are
not compatible: DIMM x and
DIMM y
The specified DIMM(s) are
incompatible with the system.
Ensure that only ECC FBD1 memory is
used. Dell recommends purchasing
memory upgrade kits directly from
www.dell.com or your Dell sales agent to
ensure compatibility.
Time-of-day not set -
please run SETUP program Incorrect Time or Date settings; faulty
system battery.
Check the Time and Date settings. See
"Using the System Setup Program" on
page 33. If the problem persists, replace
the system battery. See "System Battery"
on page 85.
Timer chip counter 2
failed Faulty system board. See "Getting Help" on page 125.
Unsupported CPU
combination Microprocessor(s) is not supported by
the system.
Install a supported microprocessor or
microprocessor combination. See
"Processors" on page 67.
Unsupported CPU stepping
detected
Utility partition not
available The <F10> key was pressed during
POST, but no utility partition exists
on the boot hard drive.
Create a utility partition on the boot
hard drive. See the CDs that came with
your system.
Table 1-8. System Messages (continued)
Message Causes Corrective Actions