Solving Problems 59
Power Problems
CAUTION: Before you perform any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product
Information Guide.
RUN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER—See "Resolving Software and Hardware Incompatibilities"
on page72.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS GREEN AND THE COMPUTER IS NOT RESPONDING —See "Dell Diagnostics"
on page68.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING GREEN —The computer is in standby mode. Press a key on the
keyboard, move the mouse, or press the power button to resume normal operation.
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS OFF —The computer is either turned off or is not receiving power.
• Reseat the power cable into the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.
• If the computer is plugged into a power strip, ensure that the power strip is plugged into an electrical
outlet and that the power strip is turned on.
• Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and power extension cables to verify that the computer
turns on properly.
• Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
• Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the system board (see
"System Board Components" on page81).
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS STEADY AMBER —A device may be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.
• Remove and then reinstall the memory modules (see "Memory" on page 82).
• Remove and then reinstall any cards, including graphics cards (see "Cards" on page 86).
IF THE POWER LIGHT IS BLINKING AMBER —The computer is receiving electrical power, but an
internal power problem may exist.
• Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location, if applicable.
• Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board (see "System Board
Components" on page81).
ELIMINATE INTERFERENCE —Some possible causes of interference are:
• Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables
• Too many devices connected to the same power strip
• Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet
DIM_book.book Page 59 Monday, October 15, 2007 11:04 AM