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38 Quick Reference Guide
Error Messages
NOTE: If the message is not listed, see the documentation for either the operating system or the program that was
running when the message appeared.
If an error occurs during start-up, a message may be displayed on the monitor identifying the problem.
See "Error Messages" in your User’s Guide for suggestions on resolving any problems.
Diagnostic Lights
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
To help you troubleshoot a problem, your computer has four lights labeled "1," "2," "3," and "4" on the
front. The lights can be "off" or green. When the computer starts normally, the lights flash. If the
computer malfunctions, the pattern of the lights and also that of the power button help to identify the
problem.These lights also indicate sleep states.
Diagnostic Light Codes Before POST
Diagnostic Lights Power
Light
Problem Description Suggested Resolution
off No electrical power is
supplied to the computer.
Connect the computer to an electrical outlet.
Ensure that the front-panel power light is on.
If the power light is off, ensure that the
computer is connected to a working electrical
outlet and then press the power button.
If the problem is still not resolved, contact
Dell for technical assistance.
off The computer is in a normal
off condition; the computer is
connected to an electrical
outlet.
Press the power button to turn the computer on.
If the computer does not turn on, ensure that
the front-panel power light is on. If the power
light is off, ensure that the computer is
connected to a working electrical outlet and
then press the power button.
If the problem is still not resolved, contact
Dell for technical assistance.