Solving Problems; Dell Diagnostics; When To Use The Dell Diagnostics; Starting The Dell Diagnostics - Dell 5160 Owner's Manual

Solving Problems

Dell Diagnostics

CAUTION:
Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in this chapter and run the
Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
NOTICE:
The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.

Starting the Dell Diagnostics

The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
NOTE:
If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell (see page 101).
1 Shut down the computer (see page 79).
2 Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
3 Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE:
If you cannot see anything on your display, hold down the mute button and press the computer's
power button to begin the Dell Diagnostics. The computer automatically runs the Pre-boot System
Assessment.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the
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Microsoft Windows
4 When the boot device list appears, highlight Diagnostics and press <Enter>.
The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment, a series of initial tests of your system
board, keyboard, hard drive, and display.
• During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
• If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart
the computer, press <n>; to continue to the next test, press <y>; to retest the
component that failed, press <r>.
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desktop. Then shut down your computer (see page 79) and try again.
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Solving Problems