Finding SolutionsDell™ OptiPlex™ GX240 Systems User's Guide
This section describes computer and software problems, offers corrective actions, describes the utility, and provides computer messages and codes. Before you call Dell for technical assistance, complete the following tasks to help you resolve computer problems:
Read "About Your Computer" and "CAUTION: Safety Instructions."
Take the problem-solving action listed in the following table for the component or equipment that is malfunctioning.
Need a driver for a graphics card, network adapter, sound card, software, or some other device | |
Power light does not light | See "Power Problems" |
Monitor power light does not light | |
No sound | |
Printer not working | See "Printer Problems" |
Serial or other parallel devices not working | |
Mouse not working | See "Mouse Problems" |
Keyboard not working | See "Keyboard Problems" |
Floppy drive or hard drive: lights not lit, scraping or unusual noises, no noise | See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems" |
Computer battery not working | See "Battery Problems" |
Expansion card errors or malfunction | See "Expansion Card Problems" |
A program locks up | |
Computer locks up | |
Computer gets wet | See "Repairing a Wet Computer" |
Computer is dropped or damaged | |
Hardware devices conflict | See "Hardware Conflicts" |
Computer memory amount is not correct | See "Computer Memory Problems" |
System board malfunctions | See "System Board Problems" |
System board is damaged | |
An error message | See "Messages and Codes" |
A series of beeps on computer startup | See "Messages and Codes" |
To use the Dell OptiPlex ResourceCD while you are running the Microsoft® Windows® operating system, perform the following steps:
 |
NOTE: To access device drivers and user documentation, you must use the ResourceCD while you are running Windows. |
If you are using the Dell OptiPlex ResourceCD for the first time on this computer, the ResourceCD Installation window opens to inform you that the ResourceCD is about to begin installation.
To complete the installation, respond to the prompts offered by the installation program.
To access the Dell OptiPlex ResourceCD Guide, click User's Guides in the Topic pull-down menu and click Dell OptiPlex ResourceCD.
To display a list of device drivers for your computer using the Dell OptiPlex ResourceCD, perform the following steps:
The ResourceCD scans your computer's hardware and operating system, and then a list of device drivers for your system configuration is displayed on the screen.
To view a list of all the available drivers for your computer, click Drivers from the Topic pull-down menu.
Basic Checks:
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Does the power light on the front of the computer light up?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. The computer may be defective. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Basic Checks:
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Is the monitor readable?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 3.
Is the monitor readable?
Yes. One or more of those devices was causing interference. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 4.
For an AGP expansion card, set Primary Video Controller to AGP. For a PCI expansion card, set Primary Video Controller to Auto.
Is the device working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 5.
Did any of the tests fail?
Yes. The video controller on the system board may be defective. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Go to step 6.
If you do not have another monitor, contact Dell for technical assistance.
Is the monitor readable?
Yes. The original monitor is defective. The problem is resolved.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Basic Checks:
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the "Diagnostics Checklist" as you perform the following steps:
Are the external speakers functioning properly?
Yes. One or more of those electrical devices was causing interference. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 2.
Is the device working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 3.
Did the tests complete successfully?
Yes. The controller is functioning properly. If the problem persists, contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Basic Checks:
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Is the device working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 2.
Does the self-test complete successfully?
Yes. Go to step 3.
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.
Does the print operation complete successfully?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
|
NOTE: If you are having a problem with a printer, see "Printer Problems." |
If a computer 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:
Basic Checks:
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
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.
Is the device working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 2.
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.
Do the tests complete successfully?
Yes. Go to step 3.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Is the device working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 4.
Is the device working properly?
Yes. You need a new device cable. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Go to step 5.
Is the device working properly?
Yes. You need a new device. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Basic Checks:
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Is the device working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 2.
Did the tests complete successfully?
Yes. Go to step 3.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
If you do not have another mouse, contact Dell for technical assistance.
Is the mouse functioning properly?
Yes. The original mouse is defective. The problem is resolved.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Basic Checks:
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostic Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Do you see bent pins?
Yes. If they can be straightened, straighten them and go to step 2. If they cannot be straightened or are broken, you must replace the keyboard.
No. Go to step 2.
Make sure the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.
The switch settings are usually on the bottom of the keyboard, sometimes behind a panel. See the documentation that came with the keyboard for more information.
During the boot routine, do the Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock lights on the keyboard blink momentarily?
Yes. Go to step 6.
No. Go to step 7.
Do the characters appear on the screen?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Did any of the diagnostics tests fail?
Yes. The original keyboard may be defective. Go to step 8.
No. Go to step 8.
If you do not have another keyboard, contact Dell for technical assistance.
Is the keyboard functioning properly?
Yes. The original keyboard is defective. The problem is resolved.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
During the power-on self-test (POST), the computer checks the floppy drive, comparing its characteristics with the computer configuration information. The floppy-drive access light blinks as the computer performs this check.
Basic Checks:
 |
NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean drive heads with a swab. You may accidentally misalign the heads, rendering the drive inoperable. |
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps.
|
CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
Did any of the tests fail?
Yes. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Go to step 2.
Does the floppy-drive access light blink during the boot routine?
Yes. Go to the next question.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Does the computer display a drive error message?
Yes. See "Computer Messages" for an explanation of the message, and then go to step 5.
No. The problem is resolved.
Does the drive boot the operating system?
Yes. The problem is probably resolved. If you continue to experience trouble, contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Basic Checks:
Click the Start button, select Shutdown, and then click Restart the Computer.
At the C: prompt, type: CD\Windows\Command and press <Enter>.
Type chkdsk and press <Enter>.
This utility creates and displays a status report, and lists and corrects errors on the disk.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostic Checklist as you perform the following steps:
|
|
CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
Is the drive operating properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Proceed to step 2.
Click the Start button, select Shutdown, and then click Restart the Computer.
At the C: prompt, type: CD\Windows\Command and press <Enter>.
Type chkdsk and press <Enter>.
This utility creates and displays a status report, and lists and corrects errors on the disk.
Is the drive operating properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Proceed to step 3.
For an IDE hard drive, run the IDE Devices device group.
Did any of the diagnostics tests fail?
Yes. Go to the next question.
No. Proceed to step 4.
Did any of the diagnostics tests indicate a faulty drive?
Yes. The hard drive may be faulty. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Go to the next question.
Did any of the diagnostics tests indicate a faulty drive controller?
Yes. The system board may be faulty. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Proceed to step 4.
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 "Computer 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?
Yes. Go to the next question.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Does the drive boot the operating system?
Yes. Go to the next question.
No. Files in the operating system may be corrupt. See your operating system documentation.
Is the drive operating properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
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. |
|
|
CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
Are the date and time correct?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. The battery may be defective. Proceed to step 8.
Is the battery working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. You may have a faulty system board. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
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.
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps.
|
|
CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
For instructions on which cables should be attached to specific connectors on an expansion card, see the expansion card's documentation.
Is the computer working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. You may have a faulty expansion card. Proceed to step 5.
|
NOTE: If your primary hard drive is connected to a drive controller card and not one of the system board IDE connectors, leave the drive controller card installed in the computer. |
Did any of the diagnostics tests fail?
Yes. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Proceed to step 9.
Did any of the diagnostics tests fail?
Yes. The expansion card you just reinstalled is faulty and needs to be replaced.
No. Repeat steps 7 and 8 with another expansion card. Proceed to step 11.
Did the Task Manager window or Close Program window appear?
Yes. Go to step 2.
No. Skip to step 4.
Is the computer operating properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 4.
Spills, splashes, and excessive humidity can cause damage to the computer. If an external device, such as a printer or modem, gets wet, contact the manufacturer of the device for instructions.
|
|
CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you perform the following steps:
|
NOTE: If your primary hard drive is connected to a drive controller card and not one of the system board IDE connectors, leave the drive controller card installed in the computer. |
Does the computer have power?
Yes. Proceed to step 6.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
Did any of the diagnostics tests fail?
Yes. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. The problem is resolved.
|
|
CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
Fill out the Diagnostic Checklist as you perform the following steps:
Did any of the diagnostics tests fail?
Yes. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. The problem is resolved.
Hardware conflicts occur when the operating system detects multiple devices that are attempting to operate on the same computer resources when those resources cannot be shared between the devices.
Symptoms:
To resolve hardware conflicts, remove any newly added hardware and contact the hardware manufacturer. Also see your operating system documentation.
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 the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the Diagnostic Checklist as you perform the following steps.
|
|
CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
Does the RAM count displayed correctly match the actual amount of memory installed in the computer?
Yes. The computer needed to update the memory count. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 2.
Did any of the diagnostics tests fail?
Yes. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Go to step 3.
Does the RAM count displayed correctly match the actual amount of memory installed in the computer?
Yes. The memory module(s) were defective. The problem is resolved.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
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 Diagnostic Checklist as you perform the following steps.
|
|
CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
Did any of the tests fail?
Yes. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
No. Go to step 2.
Is the computer working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 5.
Is the computer working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 6.
Is the computer working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Go to step 7.
Is the computer working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
If the computer cannot boot and you have exhausted all other troubleshooting options, perform the following steps.
|
|
CAUTION: Before you perform this procedure, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
Is the computer working properly?
Yes. The problem is resolved.
No. Contact Dell for technical assistance.
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 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. |
The diagnostic test groups features allow you to take the following actions:
|
NOTE: Dell recommends that you print these procedures before you begin. |
|
NOTE: Write down your current boot sequence in case you want to restore it after running the Dell Diagnostics. |
The computer reboots and the Dell logo screen appears followed by a list of the available languages.
|
NOTE: If you are using 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. |
A numbered list displays the following options:
After the diagnostics initialize, the Dell Diagnostics main menu appears:
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.
When you select Advanced Testing from the Diagnostics Menu, the following screen appears:
|
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:
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. 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. |
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. |
The Help options and a description of their functions are presented in the following table.
.
Your application programs, operating system, and the computer itself are capable of identifying problems and alerting you to them. When a problem occurs, a message may appear on your monitor screen or a beep code may sound. See "Computer Messages" or "Computer Beep Codes" for information about each message or beep code.
If you receive a computer message, see the table below for suggestions on resolving any problems indicated by the message. The computer messages are listed alphabetically.
|
NOTE: If the computer 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. |
Message Cause Action Address mark not
found
The basic input/output system (BIOS) found a faulty disk sector or could not find a particular disk sector. See "Floppy Drive Problems," or "Hard Drive Problems." 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 computer has failed to complete the boot routine three consecutive times for the same error. See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance, and report the checkpoint code (nnnn) to the support technician. Attachment failed
to respond
The floppy drive or hard drive controller cannot send data to the associated drive. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Bad command or
file name
The command for file name you entered does not exist or is not in the pathname you specified. Make sure you have spelled the command correctly, placed spaces in the proper location, and used the correct pathname. Bad error-
correction code
(ECC) on disk read
The floppy drive or hard drive controller detected an uncorrectable read error. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Controller has
failed
The hard drive or the associated controller is defective. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Data error
The floppy or hard drive cannot read the data. Run the chkdsk utility in the Microsoft Windows operating system to check the file structure of the floppy or hard drive. See your operating system documentation for more information. Decreasing
available memory
One or more dual in-line memory modules (DIMMs) may be faulty or improperly seated. See "Computer Memory Problems." Diskette drive 0
seek failure
A cable may be loose, or the computer configuration information may not match the hardware configuration. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Diskette read
failure
A cable may be loose, or the floppy may be faulty. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Diskette subsystem
reset failed
The floppy drive controller may be faulty. Run the Diskette tests in the Dell Diagnostics. Drive not ready
No floppy is in the drive. The operation requires a floppy in the drive before it can continue. Put a floppy in the drive or close the drive latch. Diskette write
protected
The floppy write-protect feature is activated. Remove the floppy from drive A, and move the write-protect tab to the unlocked position. Gate A20 failure
One or more DIMMs may be loose. See "Computer Memory Problems." General failure
The operating system is unable to carry out the command. This message is usually followed by specific information—for example, PRINTER OUT OF PAPER. Respond by taking the appropriate action. Hard disk
configuration
error
The hard drive failed initialization. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Hard disk
controller failure The hard drive failed initialization. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Invalid
configuration
information -
please run SETUP
program
The computer configuration information does not match the hardware configuration. Enter system setup and correct the computer configuration information. Keyboard failure
A cable or connector may be loose, or the keyboard or keyboard/mouse controller may be faulty. See "Keyboard Problems." Memory address
line failure at
address, read
value expecting
value
One or more DIMMs may be faulty or improperly seated. See "Computer Memory Problems." Memory allocation
error
The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the operating system or another application program or utility. Turn off the computer, wait 30 seconds, and then turn it on. Try to run the program again. If the problem persists, contact the software company. Memory data line
failure at
address, read
value expecting
value One or more DIMMs may be faulty or improperly seated. See "Computer Memory Problems." Memory size in
CMOS invalid
The amount of memory recorded in the computer configuration information does not match the memory installed in the computer. Reboot the computer. If the error appears again, see "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. Memory tests
terminated by
keystroke
The memory test was not completed. Rerun the memory test. No boot device
available
The computer cannot find the floppy or hard drive. Enter system setup, check the computer configuration information for the floppy and hard drive, and, if necessary, correct the information. No boot sector on
hard-disk drive
The computer configuration information in system setup may be incorrect, or the operating system may be corrupted. Enter system setup, check the computer configuration information for the hard drive, and if necessary, correct the information. No timer tick
interrupt
A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning. Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics Non-system disk or
disk error
The floppy in drive A or your hard drive does not have a bootable operating system installed on it. A nonbootable floppy is in drive A. Either replace the floppy with one that has a bootable operating system, or remove the floppy from drive A and restart the computer. Not a boot
diskette
There is no operating system on the floppy. Boot the computer with a floppy that contains an operating system. Plug and Play
Configuration
Error
The computer has encountered a problem in trying to configure one or more expansion cards. Turn your computer off and unplug it. Remove all but one of the cards. Plug in your computer and reboot it. If the problem persists, the expansion card may be malfunctioning. If the message does not reappear, turn off the power and reinsert one of the other cards. Repeat this process until you identify the malfunctioning card. Read fault The operating system cannot read from the floppy or hard drive. The computer could not find a particular sector on the disk, or the requested sector is defective. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Reset failed
The disk reset operation failed. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Sector not found
The operating system is unable to locate a sector on the floppy or hard drive. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems." Seek error
The operating system is unable to find a specific track on the floppy or hard drive. If the error is on the floppy drive, try another floppy in the drive. Shutdown failure
A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning. Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics. Time-of-day clock
stopped
The battery may be dead. Enter system setup and correct the date or time. Time-of-day not
set
The time or date displayed in the computer configuration information does not match the computer clock. Enter system setup and correct the date or time. Timer chip counter
2 failed
A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning. Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics. Unexpected
interrupt in
protected mode
The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or one or more DIMMs 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
Power-on self-test (POST) has queried the enhanced integrated drive electronics (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. Once your computer finishes booting, immediately back up your data and replace your hard drive. Restore the data to the replaced 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 computer. This should be done only after you have backed up the data. Write fault
Write fault on
selected drive
The operating system cannot write to the floppy or hard drive. See "Floppy Drive Problems" or "Hard Drive Problems."
If you are using another operating system, run the appropriate utility to check the file structure of the floppy or hard drive. See your operating system documentation.
Hard disk failure
Hard-disk drive
read failure
Memory double word
logic failure at
address, read
value expecting
value
Memory odd/even
logic failure at
address, read
value expecting
value
Memory write/read
failure at
address, read
value expecting
value
If the problem persists, reinstall your operating system. See the documentation that came with your operating system.
Requested sector
not found
If the problem persists, see "Battery Problems."
When errors occur during a boot routine that cannot be reported on the monitor, your computer may emit a series of beeps that identify 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 found in "Getting Help," and then look it up in "Computer Beep Codes." 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, see "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
|
Code |
Cause |
Action |
|---|---|---|
1-1-2 | Microprocessor register failure | See Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
1-1-3 | NVRAM | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
1-1-4 | ROM BIOS checksum failure | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
1-2-1 | Programmable interval timer | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
1-2-2 | Direct memory access (DMA) initialization failure | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
1-2-3 | DMA page register read/write failure | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
1-3 | Video Memory Test failure | Run the VESA/VGA Interface tests in the Dell Diagnostics. |
1-3-1 through 2-4-4 | DIMMs not being properly identified or used | See "Computer Memory Problems." |
3-1-1 | Slave DMA register failure | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
3-1-2 | Master DMA register failure | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
3-1-3 | Master interrupt mask register failure | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
3-1-4 | Slave interrupt mask register failure | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
3-2-2 | Interrupt vector loading failure | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
3-2-4 | Keyboard Controller Test failure | Run the Keyboard tests in the Dell Diagnostics. Otherwise, see "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
3-3-1 | NVRAM power loss | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
3-3-2 | NVRAM configuration | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
3-3-4 | Video Memory Test failure | Run the VESA/VGA Interface tests in the Dell Diagnostics. |
3-4-1 | Screen initialization failure | Run the VESA/VGA Interface tests in the Dell Diagnostics. |
3-4-2 | Screen retrace failure | Run the VESA/VGA Interface tests in the Dell Diagnostics. |
3-4-3 | Search for video ROM failure | Run the VESA/VGA Interface tests in the Dell Diagnostics. |
4-2-1 | No time tick | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
4-2-2 | Shutdown failure | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
4-2-3 | Gate A20 failure | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
4-2-4 | Unexpected interrupt in protected mode | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
4-3-1 | Memory failure above address 0FFFFh | Run the System Memory tests in the Dell Diagnostics. |
4-3-3 | Timer-chip counter 2 failure | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
4-3-4 | Time-of-day clock stopped | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
4-4-1 | Serial or parallel port test failure | Run the Serial Ports and the Parallel Ports tests in the Dell Diagnostics. |
4-4-2 | Failure to decompress code to shadowed memory | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
4-4-3 | Math-coprocessor test failure | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics, if possible. |
4-4-4 | Cache test failure | Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics if possible. |
A warning message alerts you to a possible problem and asks you to do something before execution continues. For example, before you format a floppy, a message may warn you that you may lose all data on the floppy 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 y (yes) or n (no).
|
NOTE: Warning messages are generated by either your application programs or your operating system. See "Software Problems" and the documentation that accompanied your operating system and application programs. |
When you run a test group or subtest in the Dell Diagnostics, an error message may result. These particular error messages are not covered in this section. Record the message on a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist found in "Getting Help." Also see "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
Should your computer fail to operate, lights on the front panel and back panel of the computer provide diagnostic codes that can help you troubleshoot a computer problem. The following sections describe the meaning of the diagnostic codes.
|
|
CAUTION: Before servicing any components inside your computer, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
Power Switch Diagnostic Light Codes
|
Power Light Code |
Cause |
Action |
Blinking yellow | The computer power supply may have failed. | Ensure that the voltage switch setting is correct. If the computer still has no power, see "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
Solid yellow | A device on the system board may be faulty or is incorrectly installed. | Be sure that each microprocessor is properly seated, remove all expansion cards, and then reboot. If the computer does not boot, see "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
Solid green and a beep code during POST | A problem was detected while the BIOS was executing. | See the previous table for instructions on diagnosing the beep code. |
Solid green power light with no beep code and no video duing POST | The monitor or the graphics card may be faulty. | See "Video and Monitor Problems" If the monitor is operating properly and is correctly connected, see "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
Solid green power light and no beep code but the computer locks up during POST | An integrated system board device may be faulty. | See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. |
When you turn on your computer, it performs a power-on self-test (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 computer fails to emit the single beep or appears to stop responding during POST, a series of lights located at the rear of the computer can help you understand which POST test failed or why the computer stopped responding. These lights indicate problems encountered during POST only, not during normal operation.
|
|
CAUTION: Before servicing any components inside your computer, see "CAUTION: Safety Instructions." |
The light patterns described in the following table can help you determine what to do to resolve the problem. If a problem resolution requires you to open the computer chassis, see "Finding Solutions" for procedures you need to complete prior to performing the suggested resolution. If the problem persists after you perform the suggested problem resolution(s), contact Dell for further help.
The following table lists the codes for the back panel diagnostic lights, gives their probable causes, and offers suggested corrective actions. The light patterns are shown as they appear on the back of the desktop chassis (vertical position).
Light pattern Problem Description Suggested Resolution off Normal off condition or possible pre-BIOS failure Verify that the computer is plugged into a working outlet and that you have pressed the power button. green Possible BIOS failure Contact Dell for technical assistance. yellow Possible processor failure Reseat the processor(s) and the terminator card (if present), and restart the computer to retest. green Possible memory failure Reseat all DIMMs and restart the computer to retest. yellow Possible expansion card failure Remove each expansion card individually, and restart the computer to retest. Reinstall the expansion card(s) one at a time, and restart the computer to retest. Move each expansion card one at a time to another PCI slot, and restart the computer to retest. green Possible video card failure or bad on-board video If you have a video card, reseat it and restart the computer to retest. If you have video integrated, you must replace the system board. yellow Possible floppy or hard drive failure Reseat all power and data cables, and restart the computer to retest. green Possible USB failure Reseat all USB devices and cables, and restart the computer to retest. yellow Other failure Contact Dell for technical assistance. green Normal operating condition after POST None.
off
off
off
yellow
yellow
yellow
green
yellow
yellow
green
yellow
yellow
yellow
green
yellow
yellow
green
yellow
green
green
yellow
green
green
yellow
green
green
green
green
green
green
This section provides general guidelines for analyzing software problems. For detailed troubleshooting information on a particular program, see the documentation that accompanied the software or consult the support service for the software.
If your computer is behaving erratically, back up your files immediately. If your computer 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:
Make sure 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 make sure the values or characters you are entering are valid.
Error messages can be produced by an application program, the operating system, or the computer. "Messages and Codes" discusses the error messages that are generated by the computer. If you receive an error message that is not listed in "Messages and Codes," check your operating system or application program documentation.
Programs that use specialized subroutines called device drivers can also cause problems with your computer. 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 computer 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 computer. If you suspect that one of these TSR programs is causing a memory conflict, remove the commands that start them from the start-up files. 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 computer can confirm whether or not these programs are the cause of 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, see 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 computers with Plug and Play capabilities, you can modify the default settings. 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. |