Dell Vostro 420 (Late 2008) - Manual (Page 31)

Troubleshooting
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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. For additional safety best
practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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
C HECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION —
• Ensure that the monitor cable is connected to the correct graphics card.
• 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).
C HECK 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.
T EST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by
testing it with another device, such as a lamp.