This section describes system and software problems, offers corrective
actions, describes the Dell Diagnostics utility, and provides system messages
and codes. Before you call Dell for technical assistance, complete the
following tasks to help you resolve computer problems:
The power indicator on the front panel communicates codes that can help
you determine whether there is a problem with your computer. The
following table lists the codes for the power indicator. For more information,
see "Diagnostic Indicators."
Test the electrical outlet: ensure that the electrical outlet is working by
testing it with a different device such as a lamp.
Connect the computer power cable directly to an electrical outlet to
ensure that the computer turns on. Do not connect it to a power
protection device, uninterruptible power supply (UPS), power strip, or
extension cord.
Ensure that all power cables are firmly connected, verifying that each
power cable is adequately connected at the computer device and to
the electrical outlet.
Check for interference: electrical appliances on the same circuit or
operating in close proximity to the computer can cause interference.
Swap the power cables between the computer and the monitor to see
whether the problem symptoms change.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Turn off the computer and peripherals, and disconnect them from
their electrical outlets.
Wait approximately 30 seconds, and reconnect the computer and
peripherals to their electrical outlets.
Turn on the computer.
Does the power indicator on the front of the computer light up?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. The computer may be defective. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
The power indicator on the monitor communicates codes that can help you
determine whether there is a problem. The following table lists the codes
for the monitor power indicator. For more information, see the
documentation that came with your monitor.
Power is on, and the monitor is receiving video input from the computer. The system is operating normally.
Solid yellow
Power is on, but the monitor is not receiving video input from the computer.
Basic Checks:
Run the monitor self-test as instructed in the monitor user's guide.
Connect the monitor power cable directly to an electrical outlet to
ensure that the monitor turns on. Do not connect it to a power
protection device, UPS, power strip, or extension cord.
Ensure that the monitor power cable is firmly connected, verifying
that the power cable is adequately connected at the monitor and to
the electrical outlet.
Swap the power cables between the computer and the monitor to see
whether the problem symptoms change.
If the monitor display is blank, the computer may be in suspended, or
hibernate, state. Push and release the power button, move the mouse,
or press a key on the keyboard to bring the computer out of the
suspended state.
Disconnect the monitor interface cable from the computer and check
the cable connector for bent or broken pins. Check for damaged or
frayed cables.
If the monitor interface cable is not damaged, ensure that it is firmly
connected to the computer.
Adjust brightness and contrast settings on the monitor.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Turn off the computer, wait at least 30 seconds, and then turn the
computer back on.
Allow 1 minute for the computer to initialize its components, and
then adjust the monitor's brightness and contrast controls.
Turn off the computer and the monitor, wait at least 30 seconds, and
disconnect the monitor. Connect a different monitor to the computer
and then turn them on.
Allow 1 minute for the computer to initialize its components, and
then adjust the monitor's brightness and contrast controls.
Is the monitor readable?
Yes. The original monitor is defective. The problem is resolved.
Connect the monitor power cable directly to an electrical outlet to
verify that the monitor turns on. Do not connect it to a power
protection device, UPS, power strip, or extension cord.
If the monitor display is blank, the computer may be in suspended, or
hibernate, state. Push and release the power button, move the mouse,
or press a key on the keyboard to bring the computer out of the
suspended state.
Disconnect the monitor interface cable from the computer and check
the cable connector for bent or broken pins. Check for damaged or
frayed cables.
If the monitor interface cable is not damaged, ensure that it is firmly
connected to the computer.
Adjust brightness and contrast settings on the monitor.
Check for interference:
Electrical appliances on the same circuit or operating in close proximity to the computer can cause interference.
Audio equipment and certain types of lamps operating in immediate proximity to the computer can cause interference.
Restart the computer.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Turn off the original computer and monitor, wait at least 30 seconds,
and disconnect the monitor.
Turn off your other computer, wait at least 30 seconds, and disconnect
its monitor. Connect the monitor from the original computer, and
then turn them on.
Allow 1 minute for the computer to initialize its components, and
then adjust the monitor's brightness and contrast controls.
Is the monitor readable?
Yes. The monitor is working properly. There may be a problem with the video card in the original computer. Go to step 5.
Turn off the computer and monitor, wait at least 30 seconds, and
disconnect the monitor. Connect the monitor back to the original
computer, and then turn them on.
Turn off nearby fans, lights, lamps, or other electrical devices.
Is the monitor readable?
Yes. One or more of those devices was causing interference. The problem is resolved.
Enter system setup and ensure that Primary Video Controller under
the Integrated Devices option is set correctly. Then exit system setup
properly to save the information, and reboot the system.
For an accelerated graphics port (AGP) expansion card, set
Primary Video Controller to AGP
For a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) expansion card,
set Primary Video Controller to Auto.
Ensure that external audio devices are connected to the microphone, line-out/speaker, or line-in connectors on the system back panel.
Ensure that the speaker cable is firmly connected to the computer.
Test the electrical outlet: verify that the speakers are connected to a working electrical outlet.
Ensure that the speakers are turned on.
If using a sound card, ensure that external audio devices are connected
to the sound card's connectors and not to the microphone, line-
out/speaker, or line-in connectors on the system back panel (see "Back-
Panel Connectors and Indicators").
Ensure that audio is not muted in the operating system (OS) settings.
See the OS documentation for more information.
Adjust the volume control on the speakers, if it is provided.
Adjust the volume control in the audio software. For more
information, see the documentation for either your OS or your audio
software.
If you are trying to listen to an audio CD, try different CDs.
Reinstall the audio driver for your operating system.
Check for interference: electrical appliances on the same circuit or
operating in close proximity to the computer can cause interference.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Turn off nearby fans, lights, lamps, or other electrical devices.
Are the external speakers working properly?
Yes. One or more of those electrical devices was causing interference. The problem is resolved.
Enter system setup and ensure that Sound under the Integrated
Devices option is set to On. Then exit system setup properly to save
the information, and reboot the system.
No. The printer is probably defective. If you bought the printer from Dell, contact Dell for technical assistance. If you did not, take it to an authorized service center for repair.
NOTE: If you are having a problem with a printer, see "Printer Problems."
If a system error message indicates a port problem or if equipment
connected to a port seems to perform incorrectly or not at all, the source of
the problem can be any of the following:
A faulty connection between the input/output (I/O) port and the
device
Incorrect settings in the operating system's configuration files
A faulty cable between the I/O port and the device
A faulty device
Faulty I/O port logic on the system board
Conflicting COM port settings
Lack of drivers
Basic Checks:
Disconnect the cable from the computer and check the cable
connector for bent or broken pins. Check for damaged or frayed cables.
If the cable is not damaged, ensure that it is firmly connected to the
computer.
Test the electrical outlet. Verify that the device is connected to a
working electrical outlet.
Verify that the device is turned on.
Check for interference: electrical appliances on the same circuit or
operating in close proximity to the computer can cause interference.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Enter system setup and check the Integrated Devices option settings.
Then exit system setup properly to save the information, and reboot
the system.
For a serial device, check the Serial Port options; for a parallel device, check the Parallel Port options. See the device's documentation for additional information on port settings and configuration requirements.
Run the Serial Ports device group and/or the Parallel Ports device group
in the Dell Diagnostics.
These device groups check the basic functions of the system board's I/O port logic. If a printer is connected to the parallel port, the Parallel Ports device group tests the communication link between the system board's I/O port logic and the printer.
If the problem is confined to a particular application program, see the
application program's documentation for specific port configuration
requirements.
Disconnect the cable from the computer and check the cable
connector for bent or broken pins. Check for damaged or frayed cables.
Ensure that the cable is firmly connected to the computer.
If you are using a Universal Serial Bus (USB) mouse, ensure that you
connect to one of the Port 1 USB connectors on the system back panel
(see "Back-Panel Connectors and Indicators").
Reinstall the mouse driver for your operating system.
Restart the computer.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
If you are using a Personal System/2 (PS/2) mouse, enter system setup
and ensure that Mouse Port under the Integrated Devices option is set
to On. Then exit system setup properly to save the information, and
reboot the system.
Turn off the original computer, wait at least 30 seconds, and
disconnect the mouse.
Turn off your other computer, wait at least 30 seconds, and disconnect
its mouse. Connect the mouse from the original computer, and then
turn the computer on.
Is the mouse working properly?
Yes. There is a problem with the original computer. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. The mouse may be defective. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Connect a different mouse to the computer, and then turn the
computer on.
Is the mouse working properly?
Yes. The original mouse is defective. The problem is resolved.
Disconnect the cable from the computer and check the cable
connector for bent or broken pins. Check for damaged or frayed cables.
Ensure that the cable is firmly connected to the computer.
If you are using a USB keyboard, ensure that you connect to one of the
Port 1 USB connectors on the system back panel (see "Back-Panel
Connectors and Indicators").
If you are using a PS/2 keyboard that can be configured with various
switch settings, ensure that the switch is set to PS/2, Enhanced XT/AT,
or PC/AT. The switch settings are usually on the bottom of the
keyboard, sometimes behind a panel. Refer to the documentation that
came with the keyboard for more information.
Check for interference. Keyboard extension cables can cause problems.
Restart the computer.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Turn off the computer, wait 30 seconds, and turn it on again.
During the boot routine, do the Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock lights on the keyboard blink momentarily?
Turn off the original computer, wait at least 30 seconds, and
disconnect the keyboard.
Turn off your other computer, wait at least 30 seconds, and disconnect
its keyboard. Connect the keyboard from the original computer, and
then turn the computer on.
Is the keyboard working properly?
Yes. There is a problem with the original computer. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. The keyboard may be defective. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Connect a different keyboard to the computer, and then turn the
computer on.
Is the keyboard working properly?
Yes. The original keyboard is defective. The problem is resolved.
During the power-on self-test (POST), the computer checks the diskette
drive, comparing its characteristics with the system configuration
information. The diskette-drive access light blinks as the computer
performs this check.
Basic Checks:
If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound when a drive is
accessed, there could be a hardware malfunction. Contact Dell for
technical assistance.
When you turn on the computer, you can hear drive activity during
the boot routine. If your computer does not boot, contact Dell for
technical assistance.
If you are trying to copy data to the diskette, ensure that it is not write-
protected.
Try a different diskette in the drive. If the new diskette works, the
original one may be defective.
Test the diskette drive access indicator by using one of the following
methods:
Using MS-DOS®, insert a diskette into the drive, type dir a: at the prompt, and press <Enter>.
Using Microsoft Windows or Windows NT®, insert a diskette into the drive, open My Computer from the desktop, and double-click the diskette drive icon.
If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound when a drive is
accessed, there could be a hardware malfunction. Contact Dell for
technical assistance.
When you turn on the computer, you can hear drive activity during
the boot routine. If your computer does not boot, contact Dell for
technical assistance.
Test the hard drive by using one of the following methods:
For MS-DOS, type scandisk x: at an MS-DOS prompt, where x is the hard drive letter, and press <Enter>.
For Microsoft Windows, run the ScanDisk utility by clicking the Start button, pointing to Run, typing scandskw, and clicking OK.
For Microsoft Windows NT, run the error-checking utility by opening the property sheet of the affected volume(s) and clicking Check Now in the Error-checking section of the Tools tab.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps.
Test the hard drive by using one of the following methods:
For MS-DOS, run the ScanDisk utility by typing scandisk x: at
an MS-DOS prompt, where x is the hard drive letter, and press
<Enter>.
For Microsoft Windows, run the ScanDisk utility by clicking the
Start button, pointing to Run, typing scandskw, and clicking OK.
For Microsoft Windows NT, run the error-checking utility by
opening the property sheet of the affected volume(s) and clicking
Check Now in the Error-checking section of the Tools tab.
Turn off the computer and peripherals, disconnect them from their
electrical outlets, wait at least 5 seconds, and then remove the
computer cover.
Ensure that the DC power cables from the power supply are firmly
connected to the connectors on each drive. Also verify that the
interface cable for each drive is firmly connected to the drive and to
the system board.
Ensure that the control panel cable is firmly connected to the system
board. The control panel contains the hard drive activity indicator. To
locate the control panel system board connector, see "System Board
Components."
Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and peripherals
to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Does the hard drive activity light blink during the boot routine?
Yes. Go to the next question.
No. The system board may be faulty. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Does the computer display a drive error message?
Yes. See "System Messages" for an explanation of the message. If you cannot correct the problem by performing the action described in the table, then contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Go to the next question.
Is this the primary hard drive that contains the operating system?
If an error message indicates a problem with the battery or if configuration
information is lost from system setup when the computer is turned off, the
battery may be defective.
CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is
incorrectly installed. Replace the battery only with the same or
equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used
batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
If an error message indicates an expansion-card problem or if an expansion
card seems to perform incorrectly or not at all, the problem could be a faulty
connection, a conflict with software or other hardware, or a faulty expansion
card.
Run the diagnostics provided by the manufacturers of all expansion
cards installed in your computer.
NOTE: The manufacturers of many expansion cards, such as video,
network interface, and sound cards, provide diagnostics programs. If you
do not have any diagnostics for your cards, go to step 2.
Ensure that each expansion card is firmly seated in its connector. If any
expansion cards are loose, reseat them.
Ensure that all cables are firmly connected to their corresponding
connectors on the expansion cards. If any cables appear loose,
reconnect them.
For instructions on which cables should be attached to specific connectors on an expansion card, see the expansion card's documentation.
If you have a mini tower chassis, replace the AGP card brace.
Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and peripherals
to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Is the system working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. You may have a faulty expansion card. Go to step 8.
Turn off the computer and peripherals, disconnect them from their
electrical outlets, wait at least 5 seconds, and then remove the
computer cover.
Remove all expansion cards except the video card.
NOTE: If your primary hard drive is connected to a drive controller card
and not one of the system board enhanced integrated drive electronics
(EIDE) connectors, leave the drive controller card installed in the
computer.
Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and peripherals
to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Verify the type of network device to which you are connecting the
computer. A hub typically operates at 10 megabits per second (Mbps).
A switch operates at 10 or 100 Mbps. Ensure that the network adapter
is configured for the appropriate speed. See the network adapter
diagnostics and configuration utility in the Dell Diagnostics.
Unplug the AC power cable from the computer, wait approximately 30
seconds, and plug in the AC power cable.
Press the power button to turn on the computer.
NOTICE: If your computer is not responding, turning off power or unplugging
the power cord should be done only as a last resort. Doing so can cause
problems with system settings and configuration.
Spills, splashes, and excessive humidity can cause damage to the system. If
an external device, such as a printer or modem, gets wet, contact the
manufacturer of the device for instructions.
NOTE: If your primary hard drive is connected to a drive controller card
and not one of the system board EIDE connectors, leave the drive
controller card installed in the computer.
Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and peripherals
to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Hardware conflicts occur when the operating system detects multiple
devices that are attempting to operate on the same system resources when
those resources cannot be shared between the devices.
Symptoms:
System hangs or locks up, particularly while using a specific device.
Memory parity errors occur on parity-enabled systems.
Noise or other problems from sound cards.
Unintelligible characters printed on the printer.
Mouse pointer hangs and will not move or moves in a stuttering
fashion.
Messages stating that the computer is not operating at maximum
performance.
While running Microsoft Windows, the system drops to Safe Mode.
Errors and crashes of applications for no apparent reason.
During POST, the computer checks the computer's memory, determines the
amount of installed memory, and then writes to and reads from the number
of available bytes to ensure proper operation.
Basic Checks:
If an insufficient memory message appears, save and close any open
files and exit any open application programs not in use.
During POST, the computer checks the computer's microprocessor and
determines its operational specifications. This information is stored in
system setup.
NOTICE: Before disconnecting a device from the computer, wait 10 to 20
seconds after disconnecting the computer from its electrical outlet. Before
removing a component from the system board, verify that the standby power
light on the system board has turned off. To locate this light, see "System Board
Components" or "Interior Service Label."
Run the System Board Devices and Processor Cache test groups in the
Dell Diagnostics.
A system board problem can result from a defective system board
component, a faulty power supply, or a defective component connected to
the system board. If an error message indicates a system board problem, fill
out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps.
NOTICE: Before disconnecting a device from the computer, wait 10 to 20
seconds after disconnecting the computer from its electrical outlet. Before
removing a component from the system board, verify that the standby power
light on the system board has turned off. To locate this light, see "System Board
Components" or "Interior Service Label."
Turn off the computer and devices, disconnect them from their
electrical outlets, and wait 10 to 20 seconds.
Install a jumper plug on the RTCRST jumper pins and then remove it.
This resets the basic input/output system (BIOS) settings to the factory configuration.
See "System Board Components" to locate the real-time clock reset jumper (labeled "RTCRST") on the system board.
NOTE: If you do not have a spare jumper, you can use the PSWD jumper.
However, ensure that you install the PSWD jumper back on the PSWD
pins before you turn on the computer.
NOTE: After you reset the computer using the RTCRST jumper, you must
enter system setup and restore any option settings that were not in your default
configuration.
If you experience a problem with your computer, run the Dell Diagnostics
before you call Dell for technical assistance. The Dell Diagnostics tests
check your computer's hardware without additional equipment and without
the risk of destroying data. When the diagnostics tests complete without
indicating any problems, you can have confidence in your computer's
operation. If the tests indicate a problem you cannot solve by yourself, the
test results provide important information you will need when talking to
Dell's service and support personnel.
NOTICE: Only use the Dell Diagnostics to test your Dell computer. Using this
program with other computers may cause incorrect computer responses or
result in error messages.
NOTE: Dell recommends that you print these procedures before you begin. For
additional information, refer to the Dell Precision WorkStations ResourceCD
User's Guide, located on the Dell ResourceCD.
Insert the Dell ResourceCD into the CD drive.
NOTE: Some of the diagnostics tests allow you to print the results. If you
want to print test results, turn on your printer, if one is attached, and
ensure that it is online.
Change the Boot Sequence to use the CD drive as the first device in
the boot sequence.
NOTE: Write down your current boot sequence in case you want to
restore it after running the Dell Diagnostics.
Press <Alt><b> to exit system setup and save your changes.
The computer reboots and the Dell logo screen appears followed by a list of the available languages.
NOTE: If you are starting the ResourceCD for the first time on this
computer, the ResourceCD Installation window opens to inform you that
the ResourceCD is about to begin installation. Click OK to continue. To
complete the installation, respond to the prompts offered by the
installation program. If the Welcome Dell System Owner screen opens,
click Next to continue.
Select the number for the language that you want.
A numbered list displays the following options:
Option 1 – Reinstall Microsoft® Windows NT® 4.0: Reinstalls
Windows NT 4.0 on your system
NOTICE: This option reformats your hard drive and causes data loss.
For more information on this option, refer to the Windows NT installation guide provided with your computer.
Option 2 – Dell Diagnostics: Loads the Dell Diagnostics that run
system tests
Option 3 – ZZTOP: Restores a corrupted hard drive by
reinstalling the Windows operating system and reconfiguring the
system to factory defaults
NOTE: ZZTOP is not an option for Windows 2000.
NOTICE: This option reformats your hard drive and causes data loss. Do not
select this option unless a qualified Dell technician has instructed you to do so.
Option 4 – SCSI Hard-Drive Diagnostics: Runs a diagnostic test
on your SCSI hard drive
NOTE: The SCSI hard-drive diagnostics are intended for systems with
SCSI hard drives and will ignore IDE hard drives.
Option 5 – 3Com® Network Card Diagnostics and
Configuration Utility: Configures the resources and settings for
the integrated network interface controller (NIC) and runs MS-
DOS–based diagnostics on the NIC
For more information on this utility, refer to the 3Com documentation provided with your computer.
Option 6 – RAID Configuration Utility: Configures the
redundant arrays of independent disks (RAID) subsystem, if a
RAID controller is installed in your computer
NOTICE: This utility can cause data loss if used improperly.
For more information on this utility, refer to the Adaptec RAID documentation provided with your computer.
Option 7 – Video Diagnostics Menu: Displays a list of video
adapters that might be installed in your system
Option 8 – Exit DOS: Exits the main menu and returns to an
MS-DOS prompt
Select Option 2 – Dell Diagnostics.
After the diagnostics load, the Dell Diagnostics main menu appears:
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
Test All Devices: Performs quick or extensive tests on all devices.
Test One Device: Performs quick or extensive tests on a single
device after you select it from a list of device groups. After you
select Test One Device, press <F1> for more information about a
test.
Advanced Testing: Allows you to modify the parameters of a test,
select a group of tests to perform, and access additional
information about Advanced Testing.
Information and Results: Provides test results, test errors, version
numbers of subtests, and additional information on the Dell
Diagnostics.
Program Options: Allows you to change the settings of the Dell
Diagnostics.
Exit to MS-DOS: Exits to the MS-DOS prompt.
Select the type of tests to perform:
To perform a quick check of your computer or a specific device,
select Quick Tests from the Test All Devices or Test One Device
option.
Quick Tests runs only the tests that run fast and do not require user interaction. Dell recommends that you choose Quick Tests first to increase the odds of tracing the source of the problem quickly.
For a thorough check of your computer or to check a particular
area of your computer, select Extended Tests from the Test All
Devices or Test One Device option.
To customize your test(s), select the Advanced Testing option.
Remove the ResourceCD from the CD drive when you finish running
the Dell Diagnostics.
When you select Advanced Testing from the Diagnostics Menu, the
following screen appears:
Advanced Testing Screen
NOTE: The groups and devices listed in your screen can vary somewhat based
on the components installed in your computer.
Information in the Advanced Testing screen is presented as follows:
Device Groups — lists the diagnostic test groups in the order they will
run if you select All from the Run tests menu option.
To select a test device group, press the up- or down-arrow key to highlight the group.
NOTE: The diagnostics may not list in the Device Groups area the names
of all components or devices that are part of your computer system. For
example, it may not list a printer even though it is connected to your
computer. However, the parallel port to which the printer is connected
appears in the Device Groups list. You can test your printer connection in
the Parallel Ports tests.
Devices for Highlighted Group — lists the computer's current
hardware.
Device groups menu bar — contains the options Run tests, Devices,
Select, Config, and Help
To select a menu option, press the left- or right-arrow key to highlight the option and press <Enter>, or press the key that corresponds to the highlighted letter in the category title.
NOTE: The options displayed on your screen should reflect the hardware
configuration of your computer.
Your application programs, operating system, and computer can identify
problems and alert you to them. When a problem occurs, a message may
appear on your monitor screen or a beep code may sound. The following two
subsections present information about each message or beep code.
If you receive a system message, see the following table for suggestions on
resolving problems indicated by the message. The system messages are
listed alphabetically.
NOTE: If the system message you received is not listed in the table, check the
documentation for the application program that you were running at the time
the message appeared and/or the operating system documentation for an
explanation of the message and a recommended action.
No hard-drive thermal probe is installed; computer has a defective thermal probe; thermal probe cable is not connected to the control panel.
Ensure that an operational hard-drive thermal probe is installed and connected to the control panel.
Alert! Previous attempts
at booting this system
have failed at checkpoint
[nnnn]. For help in
resolving this problem,
please note this
checkpoint and contact
Dell Technical Support.
The system failed to complete the boot routine three consecutive times for the same error.
Contact Dell for technical assistance, and report the checkpoint code (nnnn) to the support technician.
Alert! Previous hard drive
thermal failure.
One of the hard drives overheated the last time you started the computer.
Make sure that nothing is blocking the vents on the back of the computer and that all fans inside the computer are working.
Alert! Previous shutdown
due to thermal event.
Microprocessor(s) or hard drive(s) overheated the last time you started the computer. Computer was shut down to protect the components.
Make sure that nothing is blocking the vents on the back of the computer and that all fans inside the computer are working.
Run the ScanDisk utility in the Microsoft Windows operating system to check the file structure of the diskette or hard drive. See your operating system documentation for more information.
If you are using a different operating system, run the appropriate utility to check the file structure of the diskette or hard drive. See your operating system documentation.
Decreasing available
memory
One or more RIMMs may be faulty or improperly seated.
Remove the diskette from drive A and move the write-protect tab to the unlocked position.
Drive not ready
No diskette is in the drive. The operation requires a diskette in the drive before it can continue.
Put a diskette in the drive or close the drive latch.
Error! The previous boot
failed to complete. Last
reported checkpoint was
nnnn.
The system could not complete the boot routine.
Restart the system. If the error recurs, listen for a beep code and refer to "System Beep Codes." If no beep code is emitted, run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics.
The diskette in drive A or your hard drive does not have a bootable operating system installed.
A nonbootable diskette is in drive A. Either replace the diskette with one that has a bootable operating system, or remove the diskette from drive A and restart the computer.
Not a boot diskette
There is no operating system on the diskette.
Boot the computer with a diskette that contains an operating system.
Please connect USB
Keyboard/Mouse to USB
port 1 on the back of the
computer.
The USB keyboard and/or mouse must be connected to the port 1 USB connectors.
Turn your system off, connect the USB keyboard and/or mouse to one of the Port 1 USB connectors, and restart your system. See "Back-Panel Connectors and Indicators."
Plug and Play
Configuration Error
The system has encountered a problem in trying to configure one or more expansion cards.
Turn your system off and unplug it. Remove all but one of the cards. Plug in your system and reboot it. If the message persists, the expansion card might be malfunctioning. If the message does not appear, turn off the power and reinsert one of the other cards. Repeat this process until you identify the card that is malfunctioning.
Read fault
Requested sector not found
The operating system cannot read from the diskette or hard drive.
The system could not find a particular sector on the disk, or the requested sector is defective.
The keyboard controller might be malfunctioning, or one or more RIMMs may be loose.
Run the System Memory and the Keyboard tests in the Dell Diagnostics.
WARNING: Dell's Disk
Monitoring System has
detected that drive [0/1]
on the [primary/secondary]
EIDE controller is
operating outside of
normal specifications. It
is advisable to
immediately back up your
data and replace your hard
drive by calling your
support desk or Dell
Computer Corporation.
Power-on self-test (POST) has queried the EIDE drive for status information. The drive has returned a parameter from the call that indicates it has detected possible error conditions for its operating specifications.
When your computer finishes booting, immediately back up your data and replace your hard drive. Restore the data to the replaced drive.
Back up the data on your hard drive. If a replacement drive is not immediately available and the drive is not the only bootable drive, enter system setup and change the appropriate drive setting to None. Remove the drive from the system.
Write fault
Write fault on selected
drive
The operating system cannot write to the diskette or hard drive.
When errors occur during a boot routine that cannot be reported on the
monitor, your computer may emit a beep code that identifies the problem.
The beep code is a pattern of sounds: for example, one beep, followed by a
second beep, and then a burst of three beeps (code 1-1-3) means that the
computer was unable to read the data in nonvolatile random-access
memory (NVRAM). This information is invaluable to the Dell support staff
if you need to call for technical assistance.
When a beep code is emitted, write it down on a copy of the Diagnostics
Checklist and look it up in the following table. If you are unable to resolve
the problem by looking up the meaning of the beep code, use the Dell
Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause. If you are still unable to resolve
the problem, contact Dell for technical assistance.
If the system loses power and beeps constantly when you turn it back on,
the BIOS is probably corrupted. See "BIOS Recovery Utility" for
information on restoring the BIOS.
Verify that both RIMM sockets contain a RIMM or Rambus continuity RIMM (CRIMM). If the problem recurs, replace the module in socket 2 (if any), then the module in socket 1. If the problem is still not resolved, contact Dell for technical assistance.
Verify that both RIMM sockets contain a RIMM or CRIMM. If the problem recurs, replace the module in socket 2 (if any), then the module in socket 1. If the problem is still not resolved, contact Dell for technical assistance.
Your application programs or operating system generate warning messages
to alert you to a possible problem and ask you to take an action before you
continue. For example, before you format a diskette, a message may warn
you that you can lose all data on the diskette as a way to protect against
inadvertently erasing or writing over the data. These warning messages
usually interrupt the procedure and require you to respond by typing a y
(yes) or n (no).
When you run a test group or subtest in the Dell Diagnostics, an error
message may result. These error messages are not covered in this section.
Record the message on a copy of your Diagnostics Checklist and contact
Dell for technical assistance.
Indicators are located on the front panel and back panel of the chassis.
These indicators communicate diagnostic codes that can help you solve
problems with your computer.
When you turn on your system, it performs a POST, which is a series of self-
diagnostic checks. A successful POST ends with a single beep that signifies
the start of normal operation. If the system fails to emit the single beep or
appears to stop responding during POST, a series of indicators located at the
rear of the computer can help you understand which POST test failed or
why the system stopped responding. These indicators communicate
problems encountered during POST only, not during normal operation.
The indicator patterns described in the following table can help you
determine what to do to resolve the problem. If a problem resolution
requires you to remove the computer cover, refer to "Installing Upgrades" for
procedures you must complete before performing the suggested resolution.
If the problem persists after you perform the suggested resolution, contact
Dell for technical assistance.
The following table lists the codes for the back-panel diagnostic indicators,
gives probable causes, and suggests corrective actions. The indicator
patterns are shown as they appear on the back of your computer. The
indicators are labeled to help you match the pattern on your computer with
one of the patterns shown in the table.
Ensure that the front-panel power indicator is on. If the power indicator is off, ensure that the computer is connected to a working electrical outlet.
If the problem is still not resolved, contact Dell for technical assistance.
Possible BIOS failure, and the system is in the recovery mode
Reseat the microprocessor and restart the system to retest. For instructions on removing and replacing the microprocessor, see "Upgrading the Microprocessor."
If the problem is still not resolved, contact Dell for technical assistance.
Reseat the video card, and restart the system to retest. For instructions on removing and replacing an expansion card, see "Removing an Expansion Card."
If the problem is still not resolved, contact Dell for technical assistance.
Your system generates simple network management protocol (SNMP)
platform event trap (PET) messages that are sent to network management
software to inform the network manager that specific events have occurred
on your system.
The following table lists the SNMP platform event traps your system
generates.
This section provides general guidelines for analyzing software problems.
See "Resources and Support Tools" for a list of software resources available
to you from Dell, including drivers, utilities, documentation, and operating
system backups. For detailed troubleshooting information on a particular
application program, see the documentation that accompanied the software
or consult the support service for the software vendor.
If your system is behaving erratically, back up your files immediately. If your
system has a tape drive installed, see the documentation that came with the
tape backup software for instructions on performing a backup operation.
Otherwise, see your operating system documentation for information on
backing up data files.
Basic Checks:
Ensure that the application program is compatible with the operating
system installed in your computer and that your computer meets the
minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software.
Ensure that you properly installed and configured the application
program. Reinstall the program if necessary.
Consult the software documentation or contact the software manufacturer for detailed troubleshooting information on a particular application program.
Ensure that you have not made an error while entering data.
Ensure that problems are not caused by a virus — Use a virus-scanning
application program to check the software installation diskettes or
CDs before using them.
After you have checked the software installation diskettes or CDs with
a virus-scanning application program, you should disable the virus-
scanning application program before installing the software. You
should also disable any other application programs that are "hidden,"
or operate in the background.
Verify that the program's device drivers do not conflict with certain
application programs.
Confirm that a problem is software-related by running the System
Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics. If all tests run successfully,
the error condition may be related to a software problem.
Ensure that the use of terminate-and-stay-resident (TSR) programs
has not resulted in a memory conflict.
Remove or confirm the possibility of a program conflict by rebooting
your computer system.
Ensure that the computer's operating environment is set up to
accommodate the application programs you use. Whenever you change the
operating environment parameters, you may also affect the successful
operation of the application programs. Sometimes, after modifying the
operating environment, you may need to reinstall a program that no longer
runs properly.
If a specific key or set of keys is pressed at the wrong time, a program may
give you unexpected results. See the documentation that came with your
application program to ensure that the values or characters you are entering
are valid.
Error messages are produced by the operating system, an application
program, or the computer. "Messages and Codes" discusses error messages
that are generated by the operating system. If you receive an error message
that is not listed in "Messages and Codes," check your computer or
application program documentation.
Programs that use specialized subroutines called device drivers can also
cause problems with your system. For example, a variation in the way the
data is sent to the monitor may require a special screen driver program that
expects a certain kind of video mode or monitor. In such cases, you may
have to develop an alternative method of running that particular program—
the creation of a boot file made especially for that program, for example.
Call the support service for the software you are using to help you with this
problem.
Many utilities and supplementary programs load either when the computer
boots or from an operating system prompt. These programs are designed to
stay resident in system memory and thus always be available for use.
Because they remain in the computer's memory, memory conflicts and
errors can result when other programs require use of all or part of the
memory already occupied by these TSR programs.
Typically, your operating system's start-up files (such as config.sys and
autoexec.bat) contain commands to start TSR programs when you boot
your system. If you suspect that one of these TSR programs is causing a
memory conflict, remove the commands that start them from the start-up
file. If the problem you were experiencing does not recur, one of the TSR
programs probably created the conflict. Add the TSR commands back into
the start-up files one at a time until you identify which TSR program is
creating the conflict.
Some programs may leave portions of their setup information behind, even
though you have exited from them. As a result, other programs cannot run.
Rebooting your system can confirm whether these programs are causing the
problem.
Memory address conflicts occur when two or more devices try to access the
same address in the upper memory blocks (UMB). For example, if a network
expansion card and an expanded-memory page frame are assigned an
overlapping block of addresses, a memory address conflict arises. As a result,
when you try to log in to the network, the operation fails.
To resolve this type of conflict, you can change the address of one of the
devices. For example, in the case of the network expansion card and
expanded-memory page-frame address conflict, you can move the network
card to an address block in the range of CC000h through D0000h. To
reassign the expansion card's address block, refer to the documentation for
the card.
Problems can arise if two devices attempt to use the same interrupt request
(IRQ) line. To avoid this type of conflict, check the documentation for the
default IRQ-line setting for each installed expansion card. Then consult the
following table to configure the card for one of the available IRQ lines.
NOTE: The following table lists default IRQ settings. In systems with Plug and
Play capabilities, you can modify the defaults. If you install a Plug and Play
card in a Plug and Play computer, the computer automatically selects an open
IRQ line if any are available.
If your system loses power and beeps constantly but does not boot when
power is restored, the BIOS is probably corrupted. To restore the BIOS,
perform the following steps:
Disconnect the system from its power source.
Go to a different system that is working properly, and download the
BIOS flash executable utility for the system from the File Library
located on the Dell support website at http://support.dell.com.
On the working system, go to an MS-DOS prompt and type the
command xxxxx -writehdrfile (where xxxxx is the name of the
BIOS flash executable utility you downloaded).
Running this utility generates a file with an .hdr extension.
Copy the .hdr file to a diskette.
Insert the diskette into the diskette drive of the corrupted system and
turn it on.
The system automatically flashes the BIOS from the diskette.
When the system begins to restart and the Dell logo screen appears,
remove the diskette from the diskette drive so that the system does not
boot from the diskette again.
