Back to Contents PageTroubleshooting TipsDell™ Optiplex™ 960 Mini Tower/Desktop/Small Form Factor Service ManualUsing the Hardware TroubleshooterTipsUsing the Hardware Troubleshooter1. Click the Windows Vista Start button , and click Help and Support.2. Type hardware troubleshooter in the search field and press to start the search.3. In the search results, select the option that best describes the problem and follow the remaining troubleshooting steps.Tipsl If a device does not work, ensure that the device is properly connected.l If you added or removed a part before the problem started, review the installation procedures and ensure that the part is correctly installed.l If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. This message may help support personnel to diagnose and fix the problem(s).l If an error message occurs in a program, see the program documentation.Power ProblemsThe diagnostic lights on the front of the computer along with the status of the power button indicate the potential problem with the system. Consult thefollowing table in case of a power problem.CAUTION: Always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.NOTE: For detailed troubleshooting information, including responding to system messages, see your Service Manual on support.dell.com.CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety bestpractices information, see www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.NOTE: The diagnostic lights will blink when the power button is amber or off, and will not when it is blue. This has no other significance.Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested ResolutionOffThe computer is either turnedoff or not receiving power.l Reseat the power cable in the power connector on the back of the computer and the electricaloutlet.l Bypass power strips, power extension cables, and other power protection devices to verify thatthe computer turns on properly.l Ensure that any power strips being used are plugged into an electrical outlet and are turned on.l Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.l Ensure that the main power cable and front panel cable are securely connected to the systemboard.OffA possible motherboard failurehas occurred.l Unplug the computer. Allow one minute for the power to drain. Plug the computer into a workingelectrical outlet and press the power button.l If the problem persists, contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).Blinking AmberA possible motherboard,power supply, or peripheralfailure has occurred.1. Power off computer, leaving the computer plugged in. Press and hold the power supply test buttonon the rear of the power supply unit. If the LED next to the switch illuminates, the problem may bewith your motherboard. Contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).2. If the LED next to the switch does not illuminate, disconnect all internal and external peripherals,and press and hold the power supply test button.If it illuminates, there could be a problem with aperipheral. Contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).3. If the LED still does not illuminate, remove the PSU connections from the motherboard, then pressand hold the power supply button. If it illuminates, there could be a problem with the motherboard.Contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).
