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Messages and Codes 3-5
S
ystem Beep Codes
When errors occur during a boot routine that cannot be
reported on the monitor, the computer may emit a series
of beeps that identify the problem. The beep code is a pat-
tern of sounds: for example, one beep, followed by a
second beep, and then a burst of three beeps (code 1-1-3)
means that the computer was unable to read the data in
nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM). This
information is valuable to the Dell support staff if you
need to call for technical assistance.
When a beep code is emitted, write it down on a copy of
the Diagnostics Checklist found in Appendix A, and then
look it up in Table 3-2. If you are unable to resolve the
problem by looking up the meaning of the beep code, use
the system diagnostics to identify a more serious cause. If
you are still unable to resolve the problem, see Chap-
ter 11, “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining
technical assistance.
Table 3-2. System Beep Codes
Code Cause Action
1-2 Invalid expansion ROM checksum An expansion card could be improperly seated
or faulty. Ensure that all expansion cards are
properly seated, then reboot the system. Refer to
the documentation that came with the expansion
card for troubleshooting information.
1-2-2-3 Invalid BIOS ROM checksum Fatal error. This error usually requires that you
replace the BIOS firmware. See Chapter 11,
“Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining
technical assistance.
1-3-1-1 DRAM refresh failure Remove and reseat the DIMMs. See “Installing
DIMMs” and “Removing DIMMs” in Chapter 8.
Reboot the system. If the problem persists, have
the system board replaced. See Chapter 11,
“Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining
technical assistance.
1-3-1-3 Keyboard controller error Check the keyboard cable and connector for
proper connection. If the problem persists, run
the Keyboard Test Group in the system diagnos-
tics to determine whether the keyboard or
keyboard controller is faulty. See Chapter 5,
“Running the System Diagnostics.”
1-3-3-1 No DIMM memory installed Remove and reseat the DIMMs. See “Installing
DIMMs” and “Removing DIMMs” in Chapter 8.
If the problem persists, have the system board
replaced. See Chapter 11, “Getting Help,” for
instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the abbreviation and acronym list.