Dell Inspiron 3700 - Manual (Page 153)

support.dell.com Error Messages and Flash Codes C-7
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When errors that occur during the boot routine cannot be reported on the integrated
display or on an external monitor (if attached), the keyboard status indicators
(see Figure C-1) may flash together in a pattern of lights (a flash code) that identifies
the problem. For example, one flash, followed by a second flash, and then a burst of
three flashes (code 1-1-3) means that the computer was unable to read the data in
nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM). This information is important to the
Dell support staff if you need to call for technical assistance.
The keyboard status indicators flash briefly when the computer is turned on. The flash
codes, if needed, occur after the boot routine.

 
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When the computer emits a flash code, write it down on a copy of the Diagnostics
Checklist (see Figure 5-1) and then look up its cause and meaning in Table C-2. If you
are unable to resolve the problem, run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious
Unexpected
interrupt in
protected mode
The keyboard controller may
be malfunctioning, or an
installed memory module
may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the PC-AT
Compatible Keyboards test in the Dell
Diagnostics. For instructions, see “Running the
Dell Diagnostics” in Chapter 3.
Warning: Bat-
tery is
critically low.
The battery is running out of
charge. Replace the battery, or connect the computer to an
electrical outlet. Otherwise, activate save-to-disk
suspend mode or turn off the computer. For
instructions, see “Save-to-Disk Suspend Utility”
in Chapter 2.
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NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help.
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