2-2 Dell Inspiron 5000 Reference and Troubleshooting Guide
Check Connections
Be sure the following items are properly connected or installed:
•AC adapter and AC power cable
•Second battery or other optional device in the media bay
•Cables that connect external devices through the input/output (I/O) connectors
and ports on the computer.
NOTE: See “System Features” in the system Help for the location of the external con-
nectors and controls.
Loose or improperly connected cables are likely sources of problems for your com-
puter, external monitor, or other peripherals (such as a printer, external keyboard, or
mouse). A quick check of all cable connections can easily solve these problems. If the
connector has two small thumbscrews, ensure that the screws are tight. In addition,
check for damaged or frayed cables and for bent pins on connectors.
Evaluate Environmental Factors
A number of external factors, including temperature extremes and humidity, magnetic
influences, sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI), and poor input power or
signal quality, can interfere with the performance of your computer and attached
devices. Monitors are especially susceptible to environmental factors. The following
items can adversely affect the performance of a computer:
•Inadequate ventilation from operating the computer in a confined space, such as
a desk enclosure
•Direct sunlight
•Power sags and surges
•Substandard electrical wiring
•Excessive telephone line noise
•High-voltage electrical appliances on the same circuit or placed in close proximity
to the computer
•Generation of magnetic fields by speakers (especially a subwoofer) or a tele-
phone placed too close to the monitor
•Fluorescent lights
•Use of electrical extension cords and keyboard and mouse extension cables
•Use of an overloaded power strip or multiple power strips from one electrical outlet
•Presence of electrical conduits in an adjoining wall or elevators on the other side
of the wall
•Presence of large metal beams inside the wall behind the computer
To alleviate the effects of these factors, try removing the potential problem source or
move the computer to another location.
3959ubk1.book Page 2 Monday, March 20, 2000 4:52 PM