Dell Alienware M11x R3 (Early 2011) - Manual (Page 83)

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING
81
Answers to Common Problems
Computer Startup Problems
The computer fails the POST
The Power On Self Test (POST) ensures that the computer meets all the necessary system
requirements and that all hardware is working properly before starting the remainder of the
boot process. If the computer passes the POST, the computer will continue to start normally.
However, if the computer fails the POST, the computer will generate a single beep to indicate
a general failure and an error message will be displayed. For assistance, contact Alienware
Technical Support (see “Contacting Alienware“ on page 113).
The computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears
CAUTION: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system
shutdown.
If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse,
press and hold the power button for at least 6 seconds until the computer turns off, then
restart your computer.
NOTE: The chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer. Follow the
instructions on the screen.