Dell D5185 manual Running the Dell Diagnostics

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S C A N T H E C O M P U T E R F O R S P Y W A R E — If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for the keyword spyware.

R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S — If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a software problem.

Running the 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 "Solving Problems" (see your online User’s Guide) and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.

NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.

Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the optional Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD).

Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive

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.

1Shut down the computer.

2If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.

3Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.

4Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.

NOTE: If you cannot see anything on your display, hold down the mute button and press the computer’s power button to begin the Dell Diagnostics. The computer automatically runs the Pre-boot System Assessment.

NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from your Drivers and Utilities CD.

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.

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