R U N T H E D E L L D I A G N O S T I C S — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 17. If all tests run successfully, the error condition is related to a software problem.
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software Problems" on page 15 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media is optional and may not ship with your computer.
Enter system setup (see "System Setup Program" in your User’s Guide), review your computer’s configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test displays in system setup and is active.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities media.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" in your User’s Guide).
1Shut down the computer. Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.
3Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
4Diagnostics can be invoked in one of two ways:
a Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press <Enter>.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
bPress and hold the <Fn> key while powering the computer on.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities media.
Quick Reference Guide
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