w w w . d e l l . c o m s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m
Solving Problems
Troubleshooting Tips
Perform the following checks 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. The message may help technical support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).
•If an error message occurs in a program, see the program’s documentation.
•If the recommended action in the troubleshooting section is to see a section in your User’s Guide, go to support.dell.com (on another computer if necessary) to access your User’s Guide.
Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
To resolve incompatibilities using the Hardware Troubleshooter:
1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2Type hardware troubleshooter in the Search field and click the arrow to start the search.
3Click Hardware Troubleshooter in the Search Results list.
4In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, click I need to resolve a hardware conflict on my computer, and click Next.
Using Microsoft® Windows® XP System Restore
The Microsoft Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. See the Windows Help and Support Center (see "Finding Information" on page 5) for information about using System Restore.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them.
Creating a Restore Point
1Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
2Click System Restore.
3Follow the instructions on the screen.
32
