Dell Precision M40 - Manual (Page 24)

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Dell Diagnostics: Dell Precision™ Mobile Workstation M40 User's Guide
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
Whenever a major component or device in your computer does not function properly, you may have a component failure. If you are experiencing a
problem with your computer, Dell recommends that you perform the checks in "
Finding Solutions " and run the Dell Diagnostics before you call Dell
for technical assistance.
As long as the microprocessor and the input and output components of your computer (the display, keyboard, and floppy drive) are working, you
can use the Dell Diagnostics. Running the Dell Diagnostics may help you to resolve the problem yourself quickly without having to contact Dell for
assistance.
If you are experienced with computers and know what component(s) you need to test, simply select the appropriate diagnostic test group(s) or
subtest(s). If you are unsure about how to begin diagnosing a problem, see "
Starting the Dell Diagnostics " and " Advanced Testing ."
Features of the Dell Diagnostics
The Dell Diagnostics helps you check your computer's hardware without any additional equipment and without destroying any data. By using the
diagnostics, you can have confidence in your computer's operation. And if you find a problem you cannot solve by yourself, the diagnostic tests can
provide you with important information you will need when talking to Dell's service and support personnel. If you are experiencing a problem with
your computer, Dell recommends that you perform the checks in "
Finding Solutions " and run the Dell Diagnostics before you call Dell for technical
assistance.
NOTICE: Use the Dell Diagnostics to test only your Dell™ computer. Using this program with other computers may cause incorrect
computer responses or result in error messages.
The diagnostic test groups or subtests also have these helpful features:
l Options that let you perform quick checks or extensive tests on one or all devices
l An option that allows you to choose the number of times a test group or subtest is repeated
l
The ability to display test results or to save them in a file
l
Options to temporarily suspend testing if an error is detected, or to terminate testing when an adjustable error limit is reached
l Extensive online Help screens that describe the tests and how to run them
l Status messages that inform you whether test groups or subtests were completed successfully
l Error messages that appear if any problems are detected
Starting the Dell Diagnostics
1. Turn off the computer.
2. Undock the computer if you have it docked.
3. Turn on the computer.
4. Press <F2> at the start of the boot routine to access the system setup menu.
5. Select the following boot sequence.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Advanced Testing
Features of the Dell Diagnostics Confirming the System Configuration Information
Starting the Dell Diagnostics
NOTE: Dell recommends that print these procedures before you begin.
NOTE: Write down your current boot sequence in the event you want to restore it after running the Dell Diagnostics.
NOTE: You can only boot from a CD, CD-RW, or DVD drive installed as a fixed optical drive. You cannot boot from one of these
modules installed in the modular bay.