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20 Quick Reference Guide
SCAN THE COMPUTER FOR SPYWARE —If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently
receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be
infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require
an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware. For more information, go to support.dell.com and search for
the keyword spyware.
R
UN THE DELL DIAGNOSTICS — See "Dell Diagnostics" on page 20. If all tests run successfully, the error condition
is related to a software problem.
Dell Diagnostics
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
When to Use the Dell Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your computer, perform the checks in "Lockups and Software
Problems" on page 18 and run the Dell Diagnostics before you contact Dell for technical assistance.
It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin.
NOTICE: The Dell Diagnostics works only on Dell™ computers.
NOTE: The Drivers and Utilities CD is optional and may not ship with your computer.
Start the Dell Diagnostics from either your hard drive or from the Drivers and Utilities CD (also known
as the ResourceCD).
Starting the Dell Diagnostics From Your Hard Drive
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 (see "Contacting Dell" in your
User’s Guide)
.
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.
4
Diagnostics can be invoked one of two ways:
• Turn on the computer. When the DELL™ logo appears, press <F12> immediately. Select
Diagnostics from the boot menu and press <Enter>.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the
Microsoft
®
Windows
®
desktop. Then shut down your computer and try again.
• Press and hold the <Fn> key while powering the computer on.
NOTE: If you see a message stating that no diagnostics utility partition has been found, run the
Dell Diagnostics from the Drivers and Utilities CD.