How to Troubleshoot Dell Laptops
Laptops are unique and different than desktops, in that they tend to be more delicate and dismantling them requires different skills. Take these simple steps to see what the trouble is with your Dell Laptop. This will get you closer to diagnosing the problem so your notebook computer will be up and running in no time.
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Instructions
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Consult the icon on the Taskbar in the lower right corner of your screen. There are several pop ups there. These icons will alert you to any problems that can be fixed, such as Windows updates, security patches, compatibility with software or programs that need updates.
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Take note of the Dell Laptop behavior. If it is shutting down and feels warm, and you can hear the fan motor constantly running, then it is probably overheating.
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If you receive a blue screen with stop errors on it and the computer spontaneously restarts after you installed new software or peripherals, then it is probably related to that. Try to remove the software or do a system restore and see if the problem continues.
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Check the Dell laptop screen for scratches, damaged, missing or dead pixels. Clean the screen thoroughly with an LCD screen cleaner. You may have to replace the entire screen if this happens.
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Listen for troubles such as scratching on hard drive or CD-Rom drive or failing to start. Use a multi-meter on the power supply if it will not start. This will give you a good indication your Dell laptop power supply needs to be replaced.
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If the Dell laptop batteries are not holding a charge, they may need to be replaced. Be sure to get original equipment batteries, despite the costly investment. Be sure you have the proper charger, also.
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Be alert for burning or plastic type smells, as this could indicate the motherboard is fried from too much voltage or a power surge.
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Tips & Warnings
Have your Dell Express Service Code handy when you call Dell or go on their website.
Resources
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Comments
View all 11 Comments-
I have a Dell Inspiron E1505 and My internet connection is working but I have a problem DHCP http error 12007 & FTP 12007 what do I need to do to fix this Thank You.
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Hotch
Sep 24, 2008
dell C 610 xp won't load; setup won't work; Screen says I must enter personal or administrative password. I have no password. Oh Dear,what can I do? Charlie -
Hotch
Sep 24, 2008
dell C 610 xp won't load; setup won't work; Screen says I must enter personal or administrative password. I have no password. Oh Dear,what can I do? Charlie
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momofour
Aug 08, 2008
Thanks for the tips. I happen to be on one right now that can be very tempermental. I try to talk to it sweetly if it is not wanting to cooperate while I scream on the inside. Finally had to stop the kids from getting on it unless I was right there. They like to go to the game sites where they can chat while they play and it seems that when they do, I start having problems. May be just a coincidence, but since I keep them off now, I don't have anywhere near the problems. Make sure your antivirus/spywear programs are up to date and check to see if your registry needs to be repaired.
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momofour
Aug 08, 2008
Thanks for the tips. I happen to be on one right now that can be very tempermental. I try to talk to it sweetly if it is not wanting to cooperate while I scream on the inside. Finally had to stop the kids from getting on it unless I was right there. They like to go to the game sites where they can chat while they play and it seems that when they do, I start having problems. May be just a coincidence, but since I keep them off now, I don't have anywhere near the problems. Make sure your antivirus/spywear programs are up to date and check to see if your registry needs to be repaired.
