The computer does not start up
Check the Diagnostic Lights
Ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet
The computer stops responding
NOTICE: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
Turn the computer off — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.
A program stops responding
End the program —
Windows XP, Windows 2000
1.Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.
2.Click Applications.
3.Click the program that is no longer responding.
4.Click End Task.
A program crashes repeatedly
NOTE: Software usually includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk or CD.
Check the software documentation — If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
A solid blue screen appears
Turn the computer off — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Then restart your computer.
Other software problems
Check the soft ware documentation or contact the software manufacturer for troubleshooting information —
•Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.
•Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information.
•Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
•Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.
•If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
Back up your files immediately
Use a
Save and close any open files or programs and shut down your computer through the Start menu
Run the Dell Diagnostics — If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a software problem.
Memory Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions.
If you receive an insufficient memory message —
•Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem.
•See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory.
•Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
•Run the Dell Diagnostics.
If you experience other memory problems —
•Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
•Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines.
•Run the Dell Diagnostics.
