Beep Codes
If the monitor cannot display errors or problems, during POST the computer might emit a series of beeps, or beep code, that identifies the problem. The POST
beep codes are listed below.
System Messages
one memory module (if the computer supports a single module), and then restart the computer.
If the computer starts normally, move the memory module to a different connector and restart
the computer. Continue until you have identified a faulty connector or reinstalled all modules
without error.
If the problem persists, see "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining
technical assistance.
System board failure.
See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
Memory modules are
detected, but a memory
configuration or compatibility
error exists.
lBe sure that there are no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements.
lVerify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with the computer.
If the problem persists, see "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining
technical assistance.
USB port or a device
connected to it has failed
initialization.
Disconnect the device from the USB connector. If the problem persists, see "Contacting Dell" in the Dell
Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
Other failure.
lEnsure that the cables are properly connected from the hard drive, CD drive, and DVD drive to
the system board.
If the problem persists, see "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining
technical assistance.
Computer has started and
turned over control to the
operating system.
No action is necessary.
Beep
Codes
Possible Cause
Corrective Action
1
A memory refresh failure occurred.
Reseat the memory modules.
2
Memory parity cannot be reset.
Reseat the memory modules.
3
A failure occurred in the first 64 KB of memory.
Reseat the memory modules.
4
The system timer is not operational.
See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining technical
assistance.
6
8042 Gate A20 cannot be toggled.
See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining technical
assistance.
7
An exception interrupt error occurred.
See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining technical
assistance.
8
A read/write error occurred in the display
memory.
See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining technical
assistance.
10
A CMOS shutdown register test error occurred.
See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining technical
assistance.
11
An invalid BIOS is installed.
See "Contacting Dell" in the Dell Owner's Manual for instructions on obtaining technical
assistance.