138 TroubleshootingC H E C K T H E P O W E R L I G H T — When the power light is lit or blinking, thecomputer has power. If the power light is blinking, the computer is in Sleepstate—press the power button to exit Sleep state. If the light is off, press thepower button to turn on the computer.NOTE: For information on the Sleep power state, see "Power Management Modes"on page 63.C H A R G E T H E B A T T E R Y — The battery charge may be depleted.1 Reinstall the battery.2 Use the AC adapter to connect the computer to an electrical outlet.3 Turn on the computer.NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreasesover time. Depending on how often the battery is used and the conditions underwhich it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of yourcomputer.C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y S T A T U S L I G H T — If the battery status light flashes amberor is a steady amber, the battery charge is low or depleted. Connect thecomputer to an electrical outlet.If the battery status light flashes blue and amber, the battery is too hot tocharge. Shut down the computer, disconnect the computer from the electricaloutlet, and then let the battery and computer cool to room temperature.If the battery status light rapidly flashes amber, the battery may be defective.See "Contacting Dell" on page 203.C H E C K T H E B A T T E R Y T E M P E R A T U R E — If the battery temperature is below 0°C(32°F), the computer will not start.T E S T T H E E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Ensure that the electrical outlet is working bytesting it with another device, such as a lamp.C H E C K T H E AC A D A P T E R — Check the AC adapter cable connections. If theAC adapter has a light, ensure that the light is on.C O N N E C T T H E C O M P U T E R D I R E C T L Y T O A N E L E C T R I C A L O U T L E T — Bypass powerprotection devices, power strips, and extension cables to verify that thecomputer turns on.E L I M I N A T E P O S S I B L E I N T E R F E R E N C E — Turn off nearby fans, fluorescent lights,halogen lamps, or other appliances.
