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Fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist
as you perform the various checks.
NOTE:
Use the integrated keyboard when working in MS-DOS® mode or when running the Dell Diagnostics or the
attach an external keyboard, the integrated keyboard remains fully functional.
External keyboard problems
Check the keyboard cable —
Shut down the computer. Disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for damage, and firmly reconnect the
cable.
If you are using a keyboard extension cable, disconnect it and connect the keyboard directly to the computer.
Check the external keyboard —
1. Shut down the computer, wait 1 minute, and turn it on again.
2. Verify that the numbers, capitals, and scroll lock lights on the keyboard blink during the boot routine.
3. From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to Accessories, and click Notepad.
4. Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If you cannot verify these steps, you may have a defective external keyboard.
To verify that the problem is with the external keyboard, check the integrated keyboard —
1. Shut down the computer.
2. Disconnect the external keyboard.
3. Turn on the computer.
4. From the Windows desktop, click the Start button, point to Programs, point to Accessories, and click Notepad.
5. Type some characters on the external keyboard and verify that they appear on the display.
If the characters appear now but did not with the external keyboard, you may have a defective external keyboard.
Run the keyboard diagnostics tests —
external keyboard,
contact
Dell.
Unexpected characters
Disable the numeric keypad —
Press <Num Lk> to disable the numeric keypad if numbers are displayed instead of letters. Verify that the
numbers lock light is not lit.
Lockups and Software Problems
CAUTION:
Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
The computer does not start up
Ensure that the AC adapter is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet.
The computer stops responding
NOTICE:
You might 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. Then restart your computer.
A program stops responding
Run the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards tests in the Dell Diagnostics. If the tests indicate a defective
system setup
program. When you
Contact
Dell.
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