Dell Comprehensive Guide to Beep Codes and Error Codes for Laptops

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:

1Write down the beep code.

2Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify the cause (see "Dell Diagnostics" on page 107).

Code	Cause
2 short, 1 long	BIOS checksum error
1 long, 3 short, 2 short Memory error
1 short	F12 key pressed
Code	Description	Suggested Remedy
(repetitive
short beeps)
1	BIOS checksum	Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on
	failure. Possible	page 269).
	motherboard failure.

2No memory modules • If two or more memory modules are

are detected.installed, remove the modules (see

"Removing a Memory Module" on page 160), then reinstall one module (see "Installing a Memory Module" on page 160) and 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" on page 157).

• If the problem persists, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 269).

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