Troubleshooting 35
Solving Problems

Power Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF —The computer is either turned off or is not
receiving power.
• Reseat the power cable into both the power connector on the back of the computer
and the electrical outlet.
• If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is
plugged into an electrical outlet and that the power strip is turned on. Also bypass
power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that
the computer turns on properly.
• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such
as a lamp.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY BLUE OR WHITE AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT
RESPONDING —
• Ensure that the display is connected and powered on.
• If the display is connected and powered on, see "Beep Codes" on page 27.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING BLUE OR WHITE —The computer is in
standby mode. Press a key on the keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power
button to resume normal operation.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER —Power problem or internal device
malfunction.
• Ensure that the 12-volt power connector (12V) is securely connected to the system
board (s
ee the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com
).
• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to
the system board (s
ee the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at
support.dell.com
).
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