Dell Inspiron 2100, Service Manual

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Beep Codes and Error Messages 3-1
Chapter 3
Beep Codes and Error Messages
T
his chapter describes beep codes and system error messages that can occur
during POST or, in the case of some failures, during normal system operation.
The tables in this chapter list faults that can cause a beep code or system error
message to occur and the probable causes of the fault in each case.
If a faulty system does not emit beep codes or display system error messages to
indicate a failure, you should use the diskette-based diagnostics to run the
appropriate tests to help isolate the source of the problem. See “Running the
Diskette-Based Diagnostics” in Chapter 2.
P
OST Beep Codes
If the monitor cannot display error messages during the POST, the system may
emit a series of beeps that identifies the problem or that can help you identify a
faulty component or assembly. Table 3-1 lists the beep codes that may be gener-
ated during the POST. Most beep codes indicate a fatal error that prevents the
system from completing the boot routine until the indicated condition is
corrected.
When the system emits a beep code, record the code and then find it in
Table 3-1. If the table does not lead to the source of the problem, run the appro-
priate tests in the diskette-based diagnostics to assist in troubleshooting the
problem.
Table 3-1. POST Beep Codes
Beep Code Error Probable Causes
1-2 Invalid Expansion-
card-ROM checksum Improperly seated expan-
sion card or the system
needs rebooted.
1-2-2-3 Invalid BIOS ROM
checksum Corrupted BIOS firmware
or defective system board.
1-3-1-1 DRAM refresh failure Defective DIMMs or sys-
tem board. Reseat the
DIMMs or replace the sys-
tem board.