Users Guide

Limits for a highlighted test group (from the Main Menu) or a subtest (from the Subtest menu), you set the limits for
all the subtests in that test group. When you select Test Limits, a new screen appears and the Key-Help area lists keys
to use with the new screen.
How you change a value for the limits of a test group or subtest depends on the type of parameter associated with it.
Different keys are used to change values for different types of parameters. For example, memory address limits
specified for the RAM test group are changed by typing numbers over the digits of a given limit or by pressing the plus
(+) or minus (-) key to increase or decrease the given limit. In contrast, to set limits for the Serial/Infrared Ports test
group, you use the <Spacebar> to toggle between Yes and No.
After you are satisfied with the limits, return to the main screen of the diagnostics by pressing <Esc>. The values you
selected under Test Limits remain in effect for all the test groups or subtests you run, unless you change them.
However, the values are reset to their defaults when you restart the diagnostics.
About
About in the Main Menu lists all of the subtests for the selected test group and displays information about the subtest
that is highlighted.
Key-Help
Key-Help always displays a list of key controls available for the particular option you have selected.
Quit
CAUTION: It is important that you quit the diagnostics program correctly because the program writes
data to the computer's memory that can cause problems unless properly cleared.
Selecting Quit from the Main Menu exits the diagnostics and returns you to your operating system environment.
Tests in the Dell Diagnostics
To troubleshoot components or devices, run the appropriate test (test group or subtest) in the diagnostics. The
diagnostics exercises the functional components and devices of the computer system more vigorously and thoroughly
than they are exercised during normal operation. The diagnostics is organized by components in test groups and
subtests within each test group. Each subtest is designed to detect any errors that may interfere with the normal
operation of a specific device of the computer.
NOTE: Some subtests requiring hardware not listed in the System Configuration area of the main screen appear
to run, but they conclude with a status message stating Component not present (or disabled).
Table 2, Dell Diagnostics Tests
, lists the diagnostic test groups, their subtests, and comments concerning their use.
Table 2. Dell Diagnostics Tests
Test
Group Subtests Description
RAM Quick Memory
Test
Comprehensive
Memory Test
Tests the system RAM and microprocessor cache.