Dell Inspiron 3500 - Manual (Page 101)

Running the Dell Diagnostics 4-19
NOTE: The default for testing SVGA modes is No. If you are testing an external monitor,
change the default to Yes.
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The subtests in the Keyboard test group verify the correct operation of your keyboard
and the keyboard controller chip.
NOTE: If you test the <Fn> key, use either the Microsoft Windows logo or the menu
keys near the spacebar when prompted to press the <----> key.
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Keyboard problems are not always caused by the keyboard. For example, a complete
lockup of the computer, rendering the keyboard inoperable, is probably not caused by
a problem with the keyboard. There are two symptoms that are likely to be keyboard-
related. Sometimes, the configuration of a program changes the function of a key or
key combination. Similarly, key configuration programs like ProKey can change a key’s
function. Because these programs are memory resident, be sure to clear them out of
the computer’s memory before running a subtest in the Keyboard test group. (Clear
them from memory by booting the computer from the
Dell Diagnostics Diskette.)
When these possibilities have been eliminated, and if the following symptoms occur,
you should run one or more of the subtests in the Keyboard test group:
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When you press a key, the character represented by that key appears repeatedly;
the key seems to be stuck. Run the Stuck Key Test.
‡
When you press a key and the response is different from the usual response or
the response you anticipated, the key contact may be damaged. Run the Key-
board Interactive Test.
‡
When a key does not work at all, run all of the subtests in the Keyboard test group.
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The four keyboard subtests confirm the following keyboard functions:
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Keyboard Controller Test
Confirms the ability of the keyboard controller chip to communicate with the key-
board and confirms the programming of the controller chip.
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Keyboard Key Sequence Test
Verifies that the keys on the keyboard function correctly when you press them in
a predefined order.
‡
Keyboard Interactive Test
Checks the internal microcode of the keyboard and the external interface of the
keyboard controller chip for a malfunctioning key.