4-4 Dell Dimension XPS D
xxx
Systems Reference and Troubleshooting Guide
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If you are experiencing problems with power to your computer, perform these tasks:
Check the computer’s power indicator (see Figures 2-2 and 2-3). When lit, the
power indicator verifies that the power supply is operating. Whenever the power
is on, the fan on the power supply should also spin. If the fan does not spin , ref er
to “System Board” in Chapter 6 for further troubleshooting information.
If your computer is connected to a power strip, turn the power strip off and then
on again.
Plug the computer directly into an electrical outlet, bypassing any power protec-
tion devices.
Turn off the computer and any attached devices, and disconnect them from their
power sources. Disconnect any devices attached to the computer except for the
mouse and the monitor. Reseat the power cable at the back of the computer;
then reconnect the computer and monitor to AC power, making sure that all con-
nections fit tightly together. T urn on the comput er syste m. If the com puter boots ,
turn it off again and reconnect devices one at a time, turning on the system each
time to see if the problem returns.
Turn off the system, and swap the monitor and computer power cables.
Plug a device such as a lamp that you know works into the electrical outlet to
make sure the power source is OK.
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NOTE: Most of the checks in Table 4-1 require observation of computer functions and

indications, some of which can occur simultaneously. It may be necessary to reboot

the computer several times to complete all these steps.

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Error message Refer to “System Messages” in Appendix C.
Monitor’s power
indicator Most monitors have a power indicator (usually on the
front bezel). If the monitor’s power indicator does not ligh t
up, refer to “Monitor” found later in this chapter.
Keyboard indicators Most keyboards have three indicators in the upper-right
corner, which quickly flash on and off during the boot
sequence. Press the <Num Lock> key, the <CapsLock>
key, and the <Scroll Lock> key to toggle the keyboard
indicators on and off. If the keyboard indicators do not
light up, make sure the keyboard connector is firmly
seated. Then run the Keyboard T es t Group as describe d in
Chapter 7, “Running the Dell Diagnostics.”