Troubleshooting Your Computer 3-17keyboard to type some characters. Do the charactersappear on the display?Yes. The external keyboard may be defective. Runthe Keyboard Test Group in the Dell diagnostics. Ifyou cannot isolate the problem after running thediagnostics, call Dell for technical assistance.No. Go to step 7.7. Call Dell for technical assistance.See Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” for instructions.Troubleshooting MemoryDuring POST, the computer checks the computer’s mem-ory, and then writes to and reads from the number ofavailable bytes to ensure proper operation. If the memorycount displayed is less than the amount installed, make acopy of the Diagnostics Checklist found in Chapter 5 andfill it out as you complete the following procedure:1. Reboot the computer. Does the random-accessmemory (RAM) count displayed correctly matchthe actual amount of memory installed in thecomputer?Yes. The computer needed to update the memory; thememory check phase is OK now.No. Go to step 2.2. Reseat (remove and reinstall) any installed mem-ory modules in your computer.A loose or disconnected memory module may causeintermittent memory problems. Removing and re-installing, or reseating, a memory module oftencorrects the problem.To remove a memory module, carefully spread apartthe inner metal tabs of memory module socket justfar enough for the memory module to disengagefrom the socket (the module should pop up slightly).Then lift the memory module away from the socket.To reinstall a memory module, align the memorymodule’s edge connector with the slot in the centerof the memory module socket. Press the memorymodule’s edge connector firmly into the socket.Pivot the module down until it clicks into place. Ifyou do not hear a sharp click, remove the memorymodule and reinstall it.3. Reboot the computer. Does the RAM countcomplete?Yes. A memory module was loose; the memorycheck phase is OK now.No. Go to step 4.4. Call Dell for technical assistance.See Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” for instructions.Troubleshooting the Built-In DisplayIf the computer is receiving power, but nothing appearson your display (such as light, text, or graphics) or thedisplay image does not appear as you would expect,make a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist found in Chap-ter 5 and fill it out as you complete the followingprocedure.NOTE: The highest video resolution supported by yourbuilt-in display is 800 x 600 pixels. If your applicationprogram uses a higher resolution, you must attach anexternal video graphics array (VGA) monitor to yourcomputer.1. If the computer is running, press any key on thebuilt-in keyboard. Is the full display readable?Yes. The computer was in standby or suspend mode.The problem is resolved.No. Go to step 2.2. Is an external monitor connected to thecomputer?Yes. Go to step 3.No. Go to step 4.3. Press the <FN >< F8 > key combination. Is the fulldisplay readable?Yes. The Video Mode option in the Setup programwas set to CRT MODE.No. Go to step 4.4. Turn off the computer and any attached periph-erals. Disconnect all peripherals from thecomputer.5. Make sure the AC adapter is firmly connected tothe computer and to an AC power source, or ver-ify that a fully charged battery is properly seatedin its compartment.