Troubleshooting, Dell diagnostics, When to use the dell diagnostics – Dell Dimension 5150C User Manual

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Troubleshooting: Dell Dimension 5150C Service Manual

file:///T|/htdocs/systems/dim5150C/en/sm/tshoot1.htm[10/31/2012 8:21:27 AM]

Troubleshooting

Dell™ Dimension™ 5150C Service Manual

Dell Diagnostics

Dell Diagnostics

CAUTION:

Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the

Product Information Guide.

When to Use the Dell Diagnostics

If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in this section and run the Dell Diagnostics before you

contact Dell for technical assistance.

NOTICE:

The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.

1. Turn on (or restart) your computer.

2. When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately.

If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows®

desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.

3. When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press .

4. When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see "

Dell Diagnostics Main Menu

1. After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want.

Option

Function

Express

Test

Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your

part. Run Express Test first to increase the possibility of tracing the problem quickly.

Extended

Test

Performs a thorough check of devices. This test typically takes an hour or more and requires you to answer

questions periodically.

Custom

Test

Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you want to run.

Symptom

Tree

Lists the most common symptoms encountered and allows you to select a test based on the symptom of the

problem you are having.

2. If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem.

Write down the error code and problem description and follow the instructions on the screen.