Dell Precision M20 - Manual (Page 101)

Video and Display Problems
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks.
If the display is blank
If the display is difficult to read
To verify that the problem is with the mouse, check the touch pad —
1. Shut down the computer.
2. Disconnect the mouse.
3. Turn on the computer.
4. At the Windows desktop, use the touch pad to move the cursor around, select an icon, and open it.
If the touch pad operates correctly, the mouse may be defective.
Check the system setup program settings — Verify that the system setup program lists the correct device for the pointing device option.
(The computer automatically recognizes a USB mouse without making any setting adjustments.)
Test the mouse controller — To test the mouse controller (which affects pointer movement) and the operation of the touch pad or mouse
buttons, run the Mouse test in the Pointing Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics .
Reinstall the touch pad driver — See " Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities ."
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTE: If you are using a program that requires a higher resolution than your computer supports, it is recommended that you attach an external monitor
to your computer.
Check the battery — If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted. Connect the computer to an
electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.
Test the electrical outlet — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Check the AC adapter — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If the AC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on.
Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet — Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension cable to verify
that the computer turns on.
Adjust the power properties — Search for the keyword standby in the Windows Help and Support Center (Windows Help in Windows 2000).
Switch the video image — If your computer is attached to an external monitor, press to switch the video image to the display.
Adjust the brightness — Press and the up- or down-arrow.
Move the external subwoofer away from the computer or monitor — If your external speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that
the subwoofer is at least 60 cm (2 ft) away from the computer or external monitor.
Eliminate possible interference — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, or other appliances.
Rotate the computer to face a different direction — Eliminate sunlight glare, which can cause poor picture quality.
Adjust the Windows display settings —
Windows XP