Dell OptiPlex E1 Service Manual page 31

This chapter provides basic troubleshooting procedures applicable to the Dell
OptiPlex E1 Managed PC. A brief explanation of how to load and start the sys-
tem diagnostics is also provided at the end of the chapter. Dell recommends that
you perform the following procedures in the order they are presented in this
manual. Chapter 3, "Beep Codes and Error Messages," also contains informa-
tion to assist you in diagnosing computer failures that occur during the POST.
When you first contact a user who has a problem, ask the user to describe the
problem and the conditions under which it occurs. In particular, was the user
installing new hardware or software when the failure occurred? A verbal
description can often indicate the cause of a problem or indicate the appropri-
ate troubleshooting procedure to use. After the user describes the problem,
follow these steps:
See "Maintaining the System" in the online System User's Guide for infor-
mation about backing up data.
Can the user duplicate the problem?
Yes . Proceed to step 3.
No . Proceed to the next section, "External Visual Inspection."
Is the problem a result of user error?
Yes . Instruct the user in the proper procedure, or direct him or her to the
appropriate user documentation for the correct procedure.
No . Proceed to the next section, "External Visual Inspection."
Basic Troubleshooting 2-1