Dell Latitude 120L - Manual (Page 87)

Solving Problems
Dell Diagnostics
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in Lockups and Software Problems and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for
technical assistance.
It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also known as the ResourceCD).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive.
1. Shut down the computer.
2. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions.
3. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
4. Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:
a. Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select Diagnostics from the boot menu and press <Enter>.
b. Press and hold the <Fn> key while powering the system on.
The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment, a series of initial tests of your system board, keyboard, hard drive, and display.
l During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
l If a failure is detected, the computer stops and beeps. To stop the assessment and restart the computer, press <n>; to continue to the next test,
press <y>; to retest the component that failed, press <r>.
Dell Diagnostics ExpressCard Problems
Drive Problems Power Problems
E-Mail, Modem, and Internet Problems Printer Problems
Error Messages Scanner Problems
Keyboard Problems Sound and Speaker Problems
Lockups and Software Problems Touch Pad or Mouse Problems
Memory Problems Video and Display Problems
Network Problems
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell computers.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD may not ship with your computer.
NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell. See Technical Assistance .
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: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities CD.