View error messages that inform you of problems encountered during testing.

When to Use the System Diagnostics

If a major component or device in the system does not operate properly, component failure may be indicated. As long as the microprocessor and the system's input/output devices (monitor and keyboard) are functioning, you can use the system diagnostics to help identify the problem.

Executing System Diagnostics

The system diagnostics is run from the utility partition on your hard drive.

NOTICE: Use the system diagnostics to test only your system. Using this program with other systems may cause invalid results or error messages. In addition, use only the program that came with your system (or an updated version of that program).

1As the system boots, press <F10> during POST.

2From the utility partition main menu, select Run System Diagnostics, or select Run Memory Diagnostics if you are troubleshooting memory.

When you start the system diagnostics, a message is displayed stating that the diagnostics are initializing. Next, the Diagnostics menu appears. The menu allows you to run all or specific diagnostics tests or to exit the system diagnostics.

NOTE: Before you read the rest of this section, start the system diagnostics so that you can see the utility on your screen.

System Diagnostics Testing Options

Click the testing option in the Main Menu window. Table 5-1provides a brief explanation of testing options.

Table 5-1. System Diagnostics Testing Options

Testing Option

Function

 

 

Express Test

Performs a quick check of the system. This option runs device

 

tests that do not require user interaction. Use this option to

 

quickly identify the source of your problem.

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Running the System Diagnostics

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Dell R900 manual When to Use the System Diagnostics, Executing System Diagnostics, System Diagnostics Testing Options, 150