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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 Problems.
Ensure the power cable is firmly connected to the computer and to the electrical outlet
The computer stops responding
Turn 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.
A program crashes repeatedly
Check the software documentation
If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system
Run the Program Compatibility Wizard
Windows XP:
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-XP operating system environments.
1. Click Start ® All Programs ® Accessories ® Program Compatibility Wizard ® Next.
2. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Windows Vista:
The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows Vista operating system environments.
CAUTION: You may lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
NOTE: Most software includes installation instructions in its documentation or on a floppy disk, CD, or DVD.