Dell XPS /Dimension Service Manual

Also see for XPS /Dimension: Quick start guide Owner's manual

Contents

Dell XPS /Dimension Service Manual Manual pdf 2 page image

Back to Contents PageAdvanced TroubleshootingDell™ Dimension™ XPS Series Service ManualDiagnostic LightsBeep CodesSystem MessagesDiagnostic LightsTo help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "A," "B," "C," and "D" on the back panel. The lights can be yellow or green. Whenthe computer starts normally, the lights flash. After the computer starts, all four lights display solid green. If the computer malfunctions, the color andsequence of the lights identify the problem.CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in your Owner's Manual.Light Pattern Problem Description Suggested ResolutionThe computer is in a normal offcondition or a possible pre-BIOS failurehas occurred.Verify that the computer is plugged into a working electrical outlet and that you have pressedthe power button.A possible microprocessor failure hasoccurred.Reinstall the microprocessor and restart the computer.Memory modules are detected, but amemory failure has occurred.1. Reinstall all memory modules.2. Ensure that all the connector tabs are locked.3. Restart the computer.4. If the problem persists, see "Contacting Dell" in your Owner's Manual.A possible expansion card failure hasoccurred.1. Determine if a conflict exists by removing a card (not a video card) and then restartingthe computer.2. If the problem persists, reinstall the card that you removed, remove a different card, andthen restart the computer.3. Repeat this process for each card. If the computer starts normally, troubleshoot the lastcard removed from the computer for resource conflicts (see "Resolving Software andHardware Incompatibilities" in your Owner's Manual).4. If the problem persists, see "Contacting Dell" in your Owner's Manual.A possible video card failure hasoccurred.l If the computer has a video card, remove the card, reinstall it, and then restart thecomputer.l If the problem still exists, install a video card that you know works and restart thecomputer.l If the problem persists or the computer has integrated video, see "Contacting Dell" inyour Owner's Manual.A possible floppy or hard drive failurehas occurred.Reseat all power and data cables and restart the computer.A possible USB failure has occurred. Reinstall all USB devices, check cable connections, and then restart the computer.No memory modules are detected. 1. Reinstall all memory modules.2. Ensure that all the connector tabs are locked.