30 Quick Reference Guide
Beep Codes

Your computer may emit a series of beeps during start up. The series of beeps is

called a beep code and can be used to help identify a problem with your computer.

If your computer emits a series of beeps during start-up:

1

Write down the beep code.

2

Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify the cause (see "Dell Diagnostics" on

page33).

Code Cause
2 short, 1 long BIOS checksum error
1 long, 3 short, 2 short Memory error
1 short F12 key pressed
Code
(repetitive
shortbeeps)
Description Suggested Remedy
1BIOS checksum
failure. Possible
motherboard failure.
Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" in
your User’s Guide).
2 No memory modules
are detected.
• If two or more memory modules are
installed, remove the modules
(see"Memory"
in your User’s Guide
),
reinstall one module, and then restart
the computer. If the computer starts
normally, continue to install additional
memory modules (one at a time) until
you have identified a faulty module or
reinstalled all modules without error.
• If available, install working memory of
the same type into your computer
(see"Memory"
in your User’s Guide
).
• If the problem persists, contact Dell
(see
"Contacting Dell" in your
User’s Guide
).
3Possible
motherboardfailure. Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" in
your User’s Guide).