Back to Contents PageTroubleshooting ToolsDell™ Dimension™ 5100C Service ManualDell DiagnosticsSystem LightsDiagnostic LightsBeep CodesDell DiagnosticsWhen to Use the Dell DiagnosticsIf you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in this section and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technicalassistance.1. Turn on (or restart) your computer.2. When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately.If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Then shut down yourcomputer and try again.3. When the boot device list appears, highlight Boot to Utility Partition and press .4. When the Dell Diagnostics Main Menu appears, select the test you want to run (see "Dell Diagnostics Main Menu").Dell Diagnostics Main Menu1. After the Dell Diagnostics loads and the Main Menu screen appears, click the button for the option you want.2. If a problem is encountered during a test, a message appears with an error code and a description of the problem. Write down the error code andproblem description and follow the instructions on the screen.If you cannot resolve the error condition, contact Dell. For information about contacting Dell, see your Owner's Manual.3. If you run a test from the Custom Test or Symptom Tree option, click the applicable tab described in the following table for more information.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.Option FunctionExpress Test Performs a quick test of devices. This test typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires no interaction on your part. Run Express Test first toincrease the possibility of tracing the problem quickly.ExtendedTestPerforms a thorough check of devices. This test typically takes an hour or more and requires you to answer questions periodically.Custom Test Tests a specific device. You can customize the tests you want to run.SymptomTreeLists the most common symptoms encountered and allows you to select a test based on the symptom of the problem you are having.NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located at the top of each test screen. If you contact Dell, technical support will ask for your Service Tag.Tab FunctionResults Displays the results of the test and any error conditions encountered.Errors Displays error conditions encountered, error codes, and the problem description.Help Describes the test and may indicate requirements for running the test.
