Dell Alienware M17x (Mid 2009) - Manual (Page 43)

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CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING
Starting Alienware Diagnostics From the Support CD/DVD
Insert the Support CD/DVD. 1.
Shut down and restart the notebook. 2.
When the Alienware logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
NOTE: 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.
NOTE: The next steps change the boot sequence for one time only. On the
next start-up, the computer boots according to the devices specified in the
system setup program.
When the boot device list appears, highlight 3. CD/DVD/CD-RW and
press <Enter>.
Select
4. Boot from CD-ROM from the menu that appears and press <Enter>.
Select 5. Alienware Diagnostics from the numbered list. If multiple versions are
listed, select the version appropriate for your computer.
When the Alienware Diagnostics
6. Main Menu appears, select the test you
want to run.
NOTE: Write down any error codes and problem descriptions exactly as they
appear and follow the instructions on the screen.
After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the 7.
Alienware Diagnostics Main Menu.
Remove your Support CD/DVD, then close the
8. Main Menu window to exit the
Alienware Diagnostics and restart the computer.
Alienware ® Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your Alienware notebook, run the Alienware
Diagnostics before you contact Alienware for technical assistance (for details, refer
to “CONTACTING ALIENWARE“ on page 90). It is recommended that you print these
procedures before you begin.
NOTE: Back up all data before initiating a system recovery. Backup
functionality is included in AlienRespawn™ v2.0, but as a precaution it would
be better to backup critical files onto an external media before initiating
recovery.
NOTE: The Support CD/DVD contains drivers for your computer. You can
also download the latest drivers and software for your computer from
support.dell.com.
Review your notebook’s configuration information, and ensure that the device that
you want to test displays in the system setup program and is active. Start the
Alienware Diagnostics from the Support CD/DVD.