Troubleshooting 53
Troubleshooting

Solving Problems

Follow these tips when you troubleshoot your computer:
• If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and
ensure that the part is correctly installed.
• If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.
• If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help
support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).
• If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if
you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.

Battery Problems

CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the battery
only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according
to the manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
REPLACE THE BATTERY —If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the
computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see "Replacing the
Battery" on page157). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on
page179).

Drive Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
ENSURE THAT MICROSOFT® WINDOWS® RECOGNIZES THE DRIVE —
Windows XP:
• Click
Start
and click
My Computer
.
Windows Vista™ :
• Click the Windows Vista Start button and click
Computer
.