Solving Problems 47
Solving Problems

Dell Diagnostics

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located 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.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics

The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see page89).
1
Shut down the computer (see page71).
2
Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3
Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE: If you cannot see anything on your display, hold down the <Fn> key and press the computer’s
power button to begin the Dell Diagnostics. The computer automatically runs the Pre-boot
SystemAssessment.
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 (see page71) and try again.
4
When the boot device list appears, highlight
Diagnostics
and press <Enter>.
The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment, a series of initial tests of your system
board, keyboard, hard drive, and display.
• During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
• If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart
the computer, press <n>; to continue to the next test, press <y>; to retest the
component that failed, press <r>.