l
If you are using a USB keyboard, ensure that you connect to one of the Port 1 USB connectors on the system back panel (see "
Back-Panel Connectors
and Indicators
").
l
If you are using a PS/2 keyboard that can be configured with various switch settings, ensure that the switch is set to PS/2, Enhanced XT/AT, or PC/AT.
The switch settings are usually on the bottom of the keyboard, sometimes behind a panel. Refer to the documentation that came with the keyboard for
more information.
l
Check for interference. Keyboard extension cables can cause problems.
l
Restart the computer.
If the problem still exists after you complete the basic checks, fill out the
Diagnostics Checklist
as you perform the following steps:
1.
Turn off the computer, and then disconnect the keyboard cable and check it for bent or broken pins.
Do you see bent pins?
Yes
. If they can be straightened, straighten them and go to
step 2
. If they cannot be straightened or are broken, you must replace the keyboard.
No
. Go to step 2.
2.
Reconnect the keyboard to the computer.
Make sure the keyboard cable is firmly connected to computer.
3.
Turn on the computer.
4.
If you are using a keyboard that can be configured with various switch settings, make sure the switch is set to PS/2, Enhanced XT/AT, or PC/AT.
The switch settings are usually on the bottom of the keyboard, sometimes behind a panel. Refer to the documentation that came with the keyboard for
more information.
5.
Turn off the computer, wait 30 seconds, and turn it on again.
During the boot routine, do the Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock lights on the keyboard blink momentarily?
Yes
. Go to
step 6
No
. Go to
step 7
.
6.
Use the keyboard to type some characters.
Do the characters appear on the screen?
Yes
. The problem is resolved.
No
.
Contact Dell
for technical assistance.
7.
Run the
PC-AT Compatible Keyboards
tests in the
Dell Diagnostics
.
Did any of the diagnostics tests fail?
Yes
. The original keyboard may be defective. Go to
step 8
.
No
. Go to the next question.
Do you have another computer that is working properly?
Yes
. Go to
step 8
.
No
. Go to the next question.
Do you have another keyboard that is working properly?
Yes
. Turn off the computer, wait at least 30 seconds, and disconnect the keyboard. Go to
step 9
.
No
.
Contact Dell
for technical assistance.
8.
Turn off the original computer, wait at least 30 seconds, and disconnect the keyboard.
9.
Turn off your other computer, wait at least 30 seconds, and disconnect its keyboard. Connect the keyboard from the original computer, and then turn
the computer on.
Is the keyboard working properly?
Yes
. The original keyboard is defective. The problem is resolved.
No
.
Contact Dell
for technical assistance.
Diskette Drive Problems
During the power-on self-test (POST), the computer checks the diskette drive, comparing its characteristics with the system configuration information. The
diskette-drive access light blinks as the computer performs this check.
Basic Checks:
l
If you hear an unfamiliar scraping or grinding sound when a drive is accessed, there could be a hardware malfunction.
Contact Dell
for technical
