Dell Dimension 3100C - Manual (Page 46)

46
Advanced Troubleshooting
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Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION:
Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions
located in the Product Information Guide.
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" (see
page 27) 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 <F12> 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 (see page 53) and try again.
3 When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press <Enter>.
4 When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see
page 46).
Dell Diagnostics Main Menu
1 After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the
option you want.
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.
If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell (see page 102 ).
NOTE:
The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell,
technical support will ask for your Service Tag.
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.