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Beep Codes
Your computer might emit a series of beeps during start-up if the monitor cannot display errors or problems. This series of beeps, called a beep code, identifies
a problem. One possible beep code consists of one long beep and then two short beeps. This beep code tells you that the computer encountered a memory
test failure.
If your computer beeps during start-up:
1. Write down the beep code on the Diagnostics Checklist (see Diagnostics Checklist).
2. Run the Dell Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause (see Dell Diagnostics).
3. Contact Dell for technical assistance (see Contacting Dell).
Error Messages
Fill out the Diagnostics Checklist as you complete these checks (see Diagnostics Checklist).
If the message is not listed, see the documentation for the operating system or the program that was running when the message appeared.
Memory modules are detected, but a
memory configuration or compatibility error
exists.
l Ensure that no special memory module/memory connector placement requirements
exist (see Memory).
l Verify that the memory modules that you are installing are compatible with your
computer.
l If the problem persists, contact Dell.
A failure has occurred.
This pattern also displays when you enter
system setup and may not indicate a
problem (see Entering System Setup).
l Ensure that the cables are properly connected to the system board from the hard
drive, and optical drive.
l Check the computer message that appears on your monitor screen.
l If the problem persists, contact Dell.
After POST is complete, all four diagnostic
lights turn green briefly before turning off
to indicate normal operating condition.
None.
Code
Cause
2 short, 1 long
BIOS checksum error
1 long, 2 short
Memory test failure (bad memory during memory sizing)
1 long, 3 short, 2 short
No memory
1 short
F12 key pressed
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
Afilenamecannotcontainanyofthefollowingcharacters:\/:*?"<>|— Do not use these characters in filenames.
Arequired.DLLfilewasnotfound— The program that you are trying to open is missing an essential file. To remove and then reinstall the
program:
1. Click the Start button, click Control Panel, and then click Add or Remove Programs.
2. Select the program you want to remove.
3. Click the Change or Remove Program icon.
4. See the program documentation for installation instructions.
Alert! Previous attempts at booting this system have failed at checkpoint [nnnn]. For help in resolving this problem, please note this
checkpointandcontactDellTechnicalSupport— Contact Dell (see Contacting Dell) and report the checkpoint code (nnnn) to the support
technician.
Alert!Airtemperaturesensornotdetected— For any computer type except the ultra small form factor computer, ensure that all cables
are securely fastened to the I/O panel and to the system board and reboot your computer. If this does not resolve the problem or if you
have an ultra small form factor computer, contact Dell (see Contacting Dell).
Attachmentfailedtorespond— See Drive Problems.