CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
The power button light located on the front of the computer illuminates and blinks or remains solid to indicate different states:
If the power light is blue and the computer is not responding, see Beep Codes.
If the power light is blinking blue, 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 both 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).
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).
If the power light is steady amber, a device may be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.
Eliminate interference. Some possible causes of interference are:
Power, keyboard, and mouse extension cables
Too many devices on a power strip
Multiple power strips connected to the same electrical outlet
Beep Codes
Your computer may emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or problems. For example, one possible beep code may consist of three short, repeated beeps indicating that the computer has encountered a possible system board failure.
If your computer emits a series of beeps during start-up:
Write down the beep code.
Run the Dell Diagnostics to further identify the problem. (see Dell
Diagnostics).
Code (repetitive short beeps)
Description
Suggested Resolution
1
BIOS checksum failure. Possible system board failure.
Contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" in your Setup and Quick Reference Guide).
2
No memory modules are detected.
If two or more memory modules are installed, remove the modules (see Replacing or Adding a Memory Module), then reinstall one module and restart the computer. If the computer starts normally, continue to install additional memory modules (one at a time) until you have identified a faulty module or reinstalled all modules without error.
NOTE: If the message you received is not listed in the table, see the documentation for either the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
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 failed to complete the boot routine three consecutive times for the same error (see Contacting Dell).
CMOS checksum error —
Possible motherboard failure or RTC battery low. Replace the battery (see Replacing the Battery).
CPU fan failure —
CPU fan failure. Replace the CPU fan (see Fans).
Floppy diskette seek failure —
A cable may be loose, or the computer configuration information may not match the hardware configuration. Check cable connections (see Contacting Dell).
Diskette read failure —
The floppy disk may be defective or a cable may be loose. Replace the floppy disk/check for a loose cable connection.
Hard-disk read failure —
Possible HDD failure during HDD boot test (see Contacting Dell).
Keyboard failure —
Keyboard failure or keyboard cable loose (see Keyboard Problems).
No boot device available —
The system cannot detect a bootable device or partition.
If the floppy drive is your boot device, ensure that the cables are connected and that a bootable floppy disk is in the drive.
If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the cables are connected and that the drive is installed properly and partitioned as a boot device.
Enter System Setup and ensure that the boot sequence information is correct (see Entering System Setup).
No timer tick interrupt —
A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning or motherboard failure (see Contacting Dell).
Non-system disk or disk error —
Replace the floppy disk with one that has a bootable operating system or remove the floppy disk and restart the computer.
Not a boot diskette —
Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart your computer.
NOTICE – Hard Drive SELF MONITORING SYSTEM has reported that a parameter has exceeded its normal operating range. Dell recommends that you back up your data regularly. A parameter out of range may or may not indicate a potential hard drive problem. —
S.M.A.R.T error, possible HDD failure. This feature can be enabled or disabled in BIOS setup.
Hardware Troubleshooter
If a device is either not detected during the operating system setup or is detected, but incorrectly configured, you can use the Hardware Troubleshooter to resolve the incompatibility.
Windows XP:
Click Start®Help and Support.
Type hardware troubleshooter in the search field and press
<Enter> to start the search.
In the Fix a Problem section, click Hardware Troubleshooter.
In the Hardware Troubleshooter list, select the option that best describes
the problem and click Next to follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.
Windows Vista:
Click the Windows Vista start button , and click Help and Support.
Type hardware troubleshooterin the search field and press
<Enter> to start the search.
In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and
follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located that shipped with your computer.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in this section, and then run the Dell Diagnostics before contacting Dell for assistance.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities media provided with your computer.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities media is optional and may not ship with your computer.
NOTE: The Dell Diagnostics only operate on Dell computers.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
Before running the Dell Diagnostics, enter System Setup (see Entering System Setup) to review your computer's configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test is displayed in System Setup and is active.
The Dell Diagnostics is located on a separate diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
NOTE: If your computer does not display a screen image, contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).
Ensure that the computer is connected to an electrical outlet that is
known to be working properly.
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key is held down for extended periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and release <F12> in even intervals to open the Boot Device Menu.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.
Use the up- and down-arrow keys to select Diagnostics from the boot
menu and then press <Enter>.
Press any key to start the Dell Diagnostics from the diagnostics utility
partition on your hard drive.
Press <Tab> to select Test System and then press <Enter>.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on your computer. Selecting Test Memory initiates the extended memory test, which can take up to thirty minutes or more to complete. When the test completes, record the test results and then press any key to return to the previous menu.
At the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu, left-click with the mouse, or press
<Tab> and then <Enter>, to select the test you want to run (see Dell
Diagnostics Main Menu).
NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they appear and follow the instructions on the screen.
After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell
Diagnostics Main Menu.
Close the Main Menu window to exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the
computer.
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From the Drivers and Utilities Media
Before running the Dell Diagnostics, enter System Setup (see Entering System Setup) to review your computer's configuration information, and ensure that the device you want to test is displayed in System Setup and is active.
Insert the Drivers and Utilities media into the optical drive.
Restart your computer.
When the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key is held down for extended periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and release <F12> in even intervals to open the Boot Device Menu.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.
When the boot device list appears, use the up- or down- arrow keys to
highlight CD/DVD/CD-RW Drive then press <Enter>.
NOTE: Using the one-time boot menu changes the boot sequence for the current boot only. Upon restart, the computer boots according to the boot sequence specified in System Setup.
Press any key to confirm that you want to start from the CD/DVD.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again.
Type 1 to Run the 32 Bit Dell Diagnostics.
At the Dell Diagnostics Menu, type 1 to select Dell 32-bit Diagnostics for
Resource CD (graphical user interface).
Press <Tab> to select Test System and then press <Enter>.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on your computer. Selecting Test Memory initiates the extended memory test, which can take up to thirty minutes or more to complete. When the test completes, record the test results and then press any key to return to the previous menu.
At the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu, left-click with the mouse, or press
<Tab> and then <Enter>, to select the test you want to run (see Dell
Diagnostics Main Menu).
NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they appear and follow the instructions on the screen.
After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Dell
Diagnostics Main Menu.
Close the Main Menu window to exit the Dell Diagnostics and restart the
computer.
Remove the Drivers and Utilities media from the optical drive.
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
After the Dell Diagnostics loads the following menu appears:
Option
Function
Test Memory
Run the stand-alone memory test
Test System
Run system diagnostics
Exit
Exit the diagnostics
Press <Tab> to select the test you want to run and then press <Enter>.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Test System to run a complete test on your computer. Selecting Test Memory initiates the extended memory test, which can take up to thirty minutes or more to complete. When the test completes, record the test results and then press any key to return to this menu.
After Test System is selected, the following menu appears:
Option
Function
Express Test
Performs a quick test of devices in the system. This typically can take 10 to 20 minutes.
NOTE: The Express Test requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing a problem quickly.
Extended Test
Performs a thorough check of devices in the system. This typically can take an hour or more.
NOTE: The Extended Test periodically requires your input to answer specific questions.
Custom Test
Use to test a specific device or customize the tests to be run.
Symptom Tree
This option allows you to select tests based on a symptom of the problem you are having. This option lists the most common symptoms.
NOTE: It is recommended that you select Extended Test to perform a more thorough check of devices in the computer.
For any problem encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code and problem description exactly as it appears and follow the instructions on the screen. If you cannot resolve the problem, contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).
NOTE: When contacting Dell support, have your Service Tag ready. The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen.
The following tabs provide additional information for tests run from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option:
Tab
Function
Results
Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered.
Errors
Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the problem description.
Help
Describes the test and any requirements for running the test.
Configuration
Displays the hardware configuration for the selected device.
The Dell Diagnostics obtains configuration information for all devices from System Setup, memory, and various internal tests, and displays the information in the device list in the left pane of the screen.
NOTE: The device list may not display the names of all components installed on your computer or all devices attached to your computer.
Parameters
Allows you to customize the test, if applicable, by changing the test settings.
Solving Problems
Follow these tips when troubleshooting your computer:
If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.
If a peripheral device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.
If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help support personnel diagnose and fix the problem(s).
If an error message occurs in a program, see the program's documentation.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.
Battery Problems
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 begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
Replace the battery —
If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, or if an incorrect time or date displays during start-up, replace the battery (see Replacing the Battery). If the battery still does not work properly, contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).
Drive Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
Ensure that Microsoft® Windows® Recognizes the drive —
Windows XP:
Click Start and click My Computer.
Windows Vista™:
Click the Windows Vista Start button and click Computer.
If the drive is not listed, perform a full scan with your antivirus software to check for and remove viruses. Viruses can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing the drive.
Test the drive —
Insert another disc to eliminate the possibility that the original drive is defective.
Insert a bootable floppy disk and restart the computer.
Clean the drive or disk —
See the Dell Technology Guide for further information.
Close other programs —
The optical drive must receive a steady stream of data during the writing process. If the stream is interrupted, an error occurs. Try closing all programs before you write to the optical.
Turn off standby mode in Windows before writing to a disc —
See the Dell Technology Guide, or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help and Support for information on power management modes.
Hard drive problems
Run Check Disk —
Windows XP:
Click Start and click My Computer.
Right-click Local Disk C:.
Click Properties® Tools®Check Now.
Click Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors and click Start.
Windows Vista:
Click Start and click Computer.
Right-click Local Disk C:.
Click Properties® Tools®Check Now.
The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action.
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Error Messages
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
If the error message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
A filename cannot contain any of the following characters: \ / : * ? " < > | —
Do not use these characters in filenames.
A required .DLL file was not found —
The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the program:
Windows XP:
Click Start®Control Panel® Add or Remove Programs® Programs and Features.
Select the program you want to remove.
Click Uninstall.
See the program documentation for installation instructions.
Windows Vista:
Click Start®Control Panel® Programs® Programs and Features.
Select the program you want to remove.
Click Uninstall.
See the program documentation for installation instructions.
drive letter :\ is not accessible. The device is not ready —
The drive cannot read the disk. Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
Insert bootable media —
Insert a bootable floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
Non-system disk error —
Remove the floppy disk from the floppy drive and restart your computer.
Not enough memory or resources. Close some programs and try again —
Close all windows and open the program that you want to use. In some cases, you may have to restart your computer to restore computer resources. If so, run the program that you want to use first.
Operating system not found —
Contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).
IEEE 1394 Device Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
NOTE: Your computer supports only IEEE 1394a standard.
Ensure that the cable for the IEEE 1394 device is properly inserted into the device and into the connector on the computer
Ensure that the IEEE 1394 device is enabled in system setup —
See Entering System Setup.
Ensure that the IEEE 1394 device is recognized by Windows —
Windows XP:
Click Start and clickControl Panel.
Under Pick a Category, click Performance and Maintenance®System®System Properties®Hardware®Device Manager.
Windows Vista:
Click Start®Control Panel® Hardware and Sound.
Click Device Manager.
If your IEEE 1394 device is listed, Windows recognizes the device.
If you have problems with a Dell IEEE 1394 device —
If you have problems with an IEEE 1394 device not provided by Dell —
Contact the IEEE 1394 device manufacturer.
Keyboard Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
Check the keyboard cable —
Ensure that the keyboard cable is firmly connected to the computer.
Shut down the computer (see Before Working on Your Computer), reconnect the keyboard cable as shown on the setup diagram for your computer, and then restart the computer.
Ensure that the cable is not damaged or frayed and check cable connectors for bent or broken pins. Straighten any bent pins.
Remove any keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.
Test the keyboard —
Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, then try using the keyboard.
Ensure that the power cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet
The computer stops responding
NOTICE: You may lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
Turn the computer off —
If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your computer.
A program stops responding
End the program —
Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to access the Task Manager.
Click the Applications tab.
Click to select the program that is no longer responding.
Click End Task.
A program crashes repeatedly
NOTE: Most software includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
Check the software documentation —
If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system
Run the Program Compatibility Wizard —
Windows XP:
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-XP operating system environments.
Click Start®All Programs® Accessories® Program Compatibility Wizard® Next.
Follow the instructions on the screen.
Windows Vista:
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows Vista operating system environments.
Click Start®Control Panel® Programs® Use an older program with this version of Windows.
In the welcome screen, click Next.
Follow the instructions on the screen.
A solid blue screen appears
Turn the computer off —
If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your computer.
Other software problems
Check the software documentation or contact the software manufacturer for troubleshooting information —
Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed on your computer.
Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements needed to run the software. See the software documentation for information.
Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.
Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.
If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
Back up your files immediately
Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive, floppy disks, CDs, or DVDs
Save and close any open files or programs and shut down your computer through the Start menu
Memory Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
If you receive an insufficient memory message —
Save and close any open files and exit any open programs you are not using to see if that resolves the problem.
See the software documentation for minimum memory requirements. If necessary, install additional memory (see Replacing or Adding a Memory Module).
Reseat the memory modules to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
Reseat the memory modules (see Replacing or Adding a Memory Module) to ensure that your computer is successfully communicating with the memory.
Ensure that you are following the memory installation guidelines.
Ensure that the memory you are using is supported by your computer. For more information about the type of memory supported by your computer, see Memory.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
Check the network cable connector —
Ensure that the network cable is firmly inserted into the network connector on the back of the computer and the network jack.
Check the network lights on the back of the computer —
If the link integrity light (see "About Your Computer" in your Setup and Quick Reference Guide) is off, no network communication is occurring. Replace the network cable.
Restart the computer and log on to the network again
Check your network settings —
Contact your network administrator or the person who set up your network to verify that your network settings are correct and that the network is functioning.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
If the power light is blue and the computer is not responding —
See Power Lights.
If the power light is blinking blue —
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 in the power connector on the back of the computer and the electrical outlet.
Bypass power strips, power extension cables, and other power protection devices to verify that the computer turns on properly.
Ensure that any power strips being used are plugged into an electrical outlet and are turned on.
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).
If the power light is blinking amber, beep code 3 —
The computer is receiving electrical power, but a system board failure may exist.
Ensure that the voltage selection switch is set to match the AC power at your location (if applicable).
Ensure that all components and cables are properly installed and securely connected to the system board (see System Board Components).
If the power light is steady amber —
A device may be malfunctioning or incorrectly installed.
Ensure that the processor power cable is securely connected to the system board power connector (POWER2) (see System Board Components).
Remove and then reinstall any expansion cards, including graphics cards (see PCI and PCI Express Cards).
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
Printer Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your printer, contact the printer's manufacturer.
Check the printer documentation —
See the printer documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.
Ensure that the printer is turned on
Check the printer cable connections —
See the printer documentation for cable connection information.
Ensure that the printer cables are securely connected to the printer and the computer.
Test the electrical outlet —
Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Verify that the printer is recognized by Windows —
Windows XP:
Click Start®Control Panel®Printers and Other Hardware®View installed printers or fax printers.
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.
Click Properties®Ports. For a parallel printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is LPT1 (Printer Port). For a USB printer, ensure that the Print to the following port(s): setting is USB.
Windows Vista:
Click Start® Control Panel® Hardware and Sound® Printer.
If the printer is listed, right-click the printer icon.
Click Properties and click Ports.
Adjust the settings, as needed.
Reinstall the printer driver —
See the printer documentation for information on reinstalling the printer driver.
Scanner Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
NOTE: If you need technical assistance for your scanner, contact the scanner's manufacturer.
Check the scanner documentation —
See the scanner documentation for setup and troubleshooting information.
Unlock the scanner —
Ensure that your scanner is unlocked (if the scanner has a locking tab or button).
Restart the computer and try the scanner again
Check the cable connections —
See the scanner documentation for information on cable connections.
Ensure that the scanner cables are securely connected to the scanner and the computer.
Verify that the scanner is recognized by Microsoft Windows —
Windows XP:
Click Start®Control Panel®Printers and Other Hardware®Scanners and Cameras.
If your scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.
Windows Vista:
Click Start® Control Panel® Hardware and Sound® Scanners and Cameras.
If the scanner is listed, Windows recognizes the scanner.
Reinstall the scanner driver —
See the scanner documentation for instructions.
Sound and Speaker Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
No sound from speakers
NOTE: The volume control in MP3 and other media players may override the Windows volume setting. Always check to ensure that the volume on the media player(s) has not been turned down or off.
Check the speaker cable connections —
Ensure that the speakers are connected as shown on the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If you purchased a sound card, ensure that the speakers are connected to the card.
Ensure that the subwoofer and the speakers are turned on —
See the setup diagram supplied with the speakers. If your speakers have volume controls, adjust the volume, bass, or treble to eliminate distortion.
Adjust the Windows volume control —
Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.
Disconnect headphones from the headphone connector —
Sound from the speakers is automatically disabled when headphones are connected to the computer's front-panel headphone connector.
Test the electrical outlet —
Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Eliminate possible interference —
Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, or halogen lamps to check for interference.
Run the speaker diagnostics
Reinstall the sound driver —
See "Drivers for Media Drives" in the Dell™ Technology Guide.
Check the headphone cable connection —
Ensure that the headphone cable is securely inserted into the headphone connector (see Inside View of Your Computer).
Adjust the Windows volume control —
Click or double-click the speaker icon in the lower-right corner of your screen. Ensure that the volume is turned up and that the sound is not muted.
Video and Monitor Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions that shipped with your computer.
NOTICE: If your computer came with a PCI graphics card installed, removal of the card is not necessary when installing additional graphics cards; however, the card is required for troubleshooting purposes. If you remove the card, store it in a safe and secure location. For information about your graphics card, go to support.dell.com.
The screen is blank
NOTE: For troubleshooting procedures, see the monitor's documentation.
The screen is difficult to read
Check the monitor cable connection —
Ensure that the monitor cable is connected to the correct graphics card (for dual graphics card configurations).
If you are using the optional DVI-to-VGA adapter, ensure that the adapter is correctly attached to the graphics card and monitor.
Ensure that the monitor cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.
Remove any video extension cables and connect the monitor directly to the computer.
Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the monitor's power cable is defective.
Check the connectors for bent or broken pins (it is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing pins).
Check the monitor power light —
If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power.
If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that the monitor is turned on.
If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse to resume normal operation.
Test the electrical outlet —
Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Check the monitor settings —
See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
Move the subwoofer away from the monitor —
If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is positioned at least 60 centimeters (2 feet) away from the monitor.
Move the monitor away from external power sources —
Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to appear shaky. Turn off nearby devices to check for interference.
Rotate the monitor to eliminate sunlight glare and possible interference
Adjust the Windows display settings —
Windows XP:
Click Start®Control Panel®Appearance and Themes.
Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.
Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.
Windows Vista:
Click Start ® Control Panel® Hardware and Sound® Personalization® Display Settings.
Adjust Resolutionand Colors settings, as needed.
3D image quality is poor
Check the graphics card power cable connection —
Ensure that the power cable for the graphics card(s) is correctly attached to the card.
Check the monitor settings —
See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
Only part of the display is readable
Connect an external monitor —
Shut down your computer and connect an external monitor to the
computer.
Turn on the computer and the monitor and adjust the monitor brightness
and contrast controls.
If the external monitor works, the computer display or video controller may be defective. Contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).
Dell Technical Update Service
The Dell Technical Update service provides proactive e-mail notification of software and hardware updates for your computer. The service is free and can be customized for content, format, and how frequently you receive notifications.
To enroll for the Dell Technical Update service, go to support.dell.com/technicalupdate.
Dell Support Utility
The Dell Support Utility is installed on your computer and available from the Dell Support, , icon on the taskbar or from the Start button. Use this support utility for self-support information, software updates, and health scans of your computing environment.
Accessing the Dell Support Utility
Access the Dell Support Utility from the icon on the taskbar or from the Start menu.
If the Dell Support icon does not appear in your taskbar:
Click Start® All Programs® Dell Support®Dell Support Settings.
Ensure that the Show icon on the taskbar option is checked.
NOTE: If the Dell Support Utility is not available from the Start menu, go to support.dell.com and download the software.
The Dell Support Utility is customized for your computing environment.
The icon in the taskbar functions differently when you click, double-click, or right-click the icon.
Clicking the Dell Support Icon
Click or right-click the icon to perform the following tasks:
Check your computing environment.
View the Dell Support Utility settings.
Access the help file for the Dell Support Utility.
View frequently asked questions.
Learn more about the Dell Support Utility.
Turn the Dell Support Utility off.
Double-Clicking the Dell Support Icon
Double-click the icon to manually check your computing environment, view frequently asked questions, access the help file for the Dell Support Utility, and view Dell Support settings.
For more information about the Dell Support Utility, click the question mark (?)at the top of the Dell™ Support screen.
