Dell Inspiron 8100 - Manual (Page 40)

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Solving Problems
Dell™ Inspiron™ 8100
Accessing Help Files
Power Problems
Start-Up Error Messages
Accessing Help Files
Power Problems
Start-Up Error Messages
Video and Display Problems
Sound and Speaker Problems
Printer Problems
Modem Problems
Scanner Problems
Touch Pad Problems
External Keyboard Problems
Unexpected Characters
Drive Problems
Network Problems
Windows® Error Messages
General Program Problems
E-Mail Problems
If Your Computer Gets Wet
If You Drop or Damage Your Computer
Resolving Other Technical Problems
HINT: If you have a problem with an external device, see the device documentation or contact the manufacturer.
To access the Tell Me How help file
1. Click the Start button, point to Programs—>User's Guides, and then click Tell Me How.
To access Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Help
1. Click the Start button and then click Help.
2. Click the Search tab.
3. Type a word or phrase that describes your problem and then click List Topics.
4. Click the topic that describes your problem and then click Display.
5. Follow the instructions shown on the screen.
To access Windows Me Help
1. Click the Start button and then click Help.
2. Type a word or phrase that describes your problem in the Search box and then click Go.
3. Click the topic that describes your problem and then click Display.
4. Follow the instructions shown on the screen.
HINT: See the Tell Me How help file for information on standby mode.
Check the power light— When the power light is lit or blinking, the computer has power. If the power light is blinking, the
computer is in standby mode—press the power button to exit standby mode. If the power light is off, press the power
button.
Check the battery— If you are using a battery to power your computer, the battery charge may be depleted. Connect the
computer to an electrical outlet using the AC adapter, and turn on the computer.
Test the electrical outlet— Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Check the AC adapter— Be sure that the power cable is firmly inserted into the electrical outlet and the green light on the
AC adapter is on.
Connect the computer directly to an electrical outlet— Bypass power protection devices, power strips, and the extension
cable to verify that the computer turns on.
Check for interference— Electrical appliances on the same circuit or operating near the computer can cause interference.
Other causes of interference: power extension cables, too many devices on a power strip, or multiple power strips connected
to the same electrical outlet.
Adjust the Power Properties— See the Tell Me How help file or search for the keyword standby in Windows Help .
Reseat the memory modules— If your computer power light turns on but the display remains blank, you may need to reseat
the memory modules .