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Troubleshooting Tools
Dell™ Dimension™ 5100C Service Manual
Dell Diagnostics
System Lights
Diagnostic Lights
Beep Codes
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in this section and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.
1.Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2.When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
3.When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press <Enter>.
4.When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see "Dell Diagnostics Main Menu").
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
1. After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want.
Option | Function |
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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. |
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Extended | Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically takes an hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically. |
Test |
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Custom Test | Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you want to run. |
Symptom | Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows you to select a test based on the symptom of the problem you are having. |
Tree |
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2.If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.
If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell. For information about contacting Dell, see your Owner's Manual.
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell, technical support will ask for your Service Tag.
3. If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab described in the following table for more information.
Tab | Function |
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Results | Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered. |
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Errors | Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the problem description. |
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Help | Describes the test and may indicate requirements for running the test. |
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