Dell Precision M60 Contens: Dell Precision M60 Series Mobile Workstation User' - Page 35

Back to Contents Page Using the Dell Diagnostics Dell Precision™ M60 Series Mobile Workstation User's Guide When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Features of the Dell Diagnostics Starting the Dell Diagnostics When to Use the Dell Diagnostics Whenever a major component or device in your computer does not function properly, you may have a component failure. If you are experiencing a problem with your Dell™ computer, perform the checks in "Solving Problems" and run the Dell Diagnostics before you call Dell for technical assistance. Running the Dell Diagnostics may help you to resolve the problem yourself quickly without having to contact Dell for assistance. If you are experienced with computers and know what component(s) you need to test, select the appropriate diagnostic test group(s) or subtest(s). If you are unsure about how to begin diagnosing a problem, see "Starting the Dell Diagnostics." Features of the Dell Diagnostics The Dell Diagnostics helps you to check your computer hardware without any additional equipment and without destroying any data. By using the diagnostics, you can have confidence in the operation of your computer. If you find a problem that you cannot solve by yourself, the diagnostic tests can provide you with important information you need when talking to Dell's service and support personnel. NOTICE: Use the Dell Diagnostics to test only your Dell computer. Using this program with other computers may cause incorrect computer responses or result in error messages. The diagnostic test groups or subtests also have the following features: l Options that let you perform express, extended, or custom tests on one or all devices l An option that allows you to select tests based on a symptom of the problem you are having l An option that allows you to choose the number of times a test group or subtest is repeated l The ability to display test results l Options to temporarily suspend testing if an error is detected, or to terminate testing l Extensive online Help that describes the tests and devices l Status messages that inform you whether test groups or subtests were completed successfully l Error messages that appear if any problems are detected Starting the Dell Diagnostics The Dell Diagnostics is located on a hidden Diagnostic utility partition on your hard drive. NOTE: If your computer cannot display a screen image, contact Dell. 1. Shut down the computer. 2. If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation that came with your docking device for instructions. 3. Connect the computer to an electrical outlet. NOTE: If you cannot see anything on your display, you can hold down the mute button and press the power button (instead of F12) to begin the Dell Diagnostics. You do not need to highlight Diagnostics and press . The computer automatically runs the Pre-boot System Assessment. 4. Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press immediately. If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again. 5. When the boot device list appears, highlight Diagnostics and press . The computer begins to run the Pre-boot System Assessment, a series of embedded diagnostics that perform initial testing on your system board, keyboard, hard drive, and display. l During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.