support.dell.com Basic Troubleshooting 4-1 This chapter guides you through some initial checks and procedures that can solvebasic computer problems. It can also direct you to the appropriate chapter in thisguide for detailed troubleshooting information and procedures to solve more complexproblems. You should complete the checks in this chapter before calling Dell for tech-nical assistance; even if these checks do not provide an immediate solution, they canhelp support technicians diagnose and fix the problem.+ *You can lose data when a system failure occurs. If your system is behaving erratically,back up your data files immediately (refer to “Preserving Data” in Chapter 1).There is no need to back up Dell-installed driver files for Dell-installed devices. Thedriver files are preserved on the Dell Dimension ResourceCD.NOTE: In case of warranty replacement of your hard-disk drive, you will receive ablank formatted drive from Dell. You must reinstall application programs and restoredata files. +To perform an initial check of your computer system, perform the following steps.NOTE: If your computer is wet or damaged, refer to “If Your Computer Gets Wet” or“If Your Computer Is Damaged” in Chapter 6.1. If the problem you are experiencing began after making a change to your com-puter, such as installing new hardware or software, undo the change if possible.If you need technical assistance, contact the product manufacturer or the com-pany from whom you purchased the product.NOTE: DellWare™ products are supported by the item's manufacturer. To receiveproduct support information, call 1-800-753-7201.