Software diagnostic tools, Pre-boot system assessment (psa) – Dell Alienware M17x R2 (Early 2010) User Manual
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CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING
Software Diagnostic Tools
Pre-Boot System Assessment (PSA)
The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment (PSA), a series of initial tests
of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, etc.
To invoke PSA:
1. Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2. Press <F12> to access the
Boot Menu.
3. Select
Diagnostics from the menu and press <Enter>.
During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.
•
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>.
•
If failures are detected during the Pre-boot System Assessment, write down
the error code(s) and contact Alienware (see “CONTACTING ALIENWARE“ on
If the Pre-boot System Assessment completes successfully, the following message
appears “
Do you want to run the remaining memory tests? This
will take about 30 minutes or more. Do you want to continue?
(Recommended).”
If you are experiencing memory issues, press <y> else press <n>. The following
message is displayed: “
Pre-boot System Assessment complete.”
Press <o> to reboot your computer.
When troubleshooting your computer, remember the following safety guidelines:
•
Before touching any of the computer’s internal components, touch an
unpainted portion of the chassis. Doing so will safely discharge any static
electricity, which could damage your computer.
•
Turn off your computer and any connected peripherals.
•
Disconnect any peripherals from your computer.
Things to check before troubleshooting:
•
Ensure that the AC adapter cable is properly connected between your
computer and a grounded, three-prong power outlet. Ensure that the power
outlet is working.
•
Ensure the UPS or power strip is turned on (if applicable).
•
If your peripheral devices (e.g. keyboard, mouse, printer, etc.) are not
working, ensure that all connections are secure.
•
If any computer components were added or removed before the problem
began, check to see if you performed the installation or removal procedures
properly.
•
If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact error
message prior to calling Technical Support to aid in diagnosing and
resolving your issue.
•
If an error occurs in a specific program, see the program’s documentation.