146 Troubleshooting
• Ensure that the cable is not damaged or frayed and check cable connectors for bent or
broken pins. Straighten any bent pins.
• Remove any keyboard extension cables and connect the keyboard directly to the
computer.
TEST THE KEYBOARD — Connect a properly working keyboard to the computer, then
try using the keyboard.
R
UN THE HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTER — See "Hardware Troubleshooter" on
page 135.
Lockups and Software Problems
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
The computer does not start up
CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS — See "Power Lights" on page 123.
E
NSURE THAT THE POWER CABLE IS FIRMLY CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER AND TO
THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET
The computer stops responding
CAUTION: You may lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system
shutdown.
T
URN THE COMPUTER OFF — If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on
your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to
10 seconds (until the computer turns off), and then restart your computer.
A program stops responding
END THE PROGRAM —
1
Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously to access the Task Manager.
2
Click the
Applications
tab.
3
Click to select the program that is no longer responding.
4
Click
End Task
.