Dell Inspiron 7500 Reference And Troubleshooting Guide

							support.dell.comSystem Messages and Beep CodesC-1APPENDIX C
System Messages and Beep Codes
Your application programs, the operating system, and the computer itself can provide 
you with status and error information in the form of system messages that appear on 
the computer’s display or an external monitor (if one is attached), or as beep codes 
that sound through the computer’s speaker. This appendix documents the diagnostic 
and beep codes and system messages generated by the system basic input/output 
system (BIOS). For other messages, refer to the documentation for your application 
program or operating system.System Messages
If a message appears on the display or external monitor, make a note of the message. 
See Table C-1 for an explanation of the message and suggestions for correcting any 
errors. The system messages are listed alphabetically.
NOTE: If the message is not listed in TableC-1, check the documentation for the 
application programs that were running at the time the message appeared and/or        
the operating system documentation for an explanation of the message and a 
recommended action.Table C-1.  System Error Messages 
MessageCauseAction
Diskette drive 
A error
A connector may be loose or 
the diskette may be faulty.If the diskette-drive access indicator lights up when 
you access a file on the diskette, but you still get 
this error message, try a different diskette. If the 
problem persists, shut down the computer, remove 
the drive completely, and then reinsert it. Turn the 
computer back on, and check for the error 
message.
If the problem is still not resolved, see 
“Troubleshooting the Diskette Drive” found later      
in this chapter.
NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help. 
						

							C-2Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting GuideExtended RAM 
failed at off-
set: nnnn
Extended memory is not 
configured properly or has 
failed at the memory address 
nnnn.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)Failing bits: 
nnnn 
Memory failed at RAM 
address nnnn.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)Fixed disk 0 
failure
The hard-disk drive failed to 
initialize.See “Troubleshooting the Hard-Disk Drive” found 
later in this chapter.Fixed disk con-
troller failure
The hard-disk drive 
controller may be faulty.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)Incorrect drive 
A type—run 
Setup
The diskette drive is not   
identified properly in the 
Setup program. Shut down the computer, remove the drive 
completely, and then reinsert it. Turn the computer 
back on, and check for the error message.
If the problem persists, reboot the computer and 
press  as soon as you see the Dell logo 
screen to enter the Setup program. Write down the 
setting for FDD Controller in the Main menu. Then 
call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)Keyboard con-
troller error
The keyboard controller is 
faulty.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)Keyboard error
If an external keyboard is 
being used, a cable or con-
nector may be loose or the 
keyboard may be faulty.
If the built-in keyboard is 
being used, it may be faulty. 
A key on the integrated     
keyboard may have been 
pressed while the computer 
was booting.Run the Stuck Key Test in the PC-AT Compatible 
Keyboards device group in the Dell Diagnostics. 
(For instructions, see “Running the Dell 
Diagnostics” found later in this chapter.)Operating 
system not 
found
The operating system may 
be corrupted. Or, the operat-
ing system cannot be found 
on the hard-disk drive or on 
the diskette in the diskette 
drive.Reinstall the operating system. See the 
documentation that came with the operating sys-
tem. If the problem is still not resolved, call Dell for 
technical assistance. (For instructions, see Chapter 
5, 
“Getting Help.”)Parity check 1 
nnnn
A parity error was found in 
the system bus at address 
nnnn. Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)Table C-1.  System Error Messages (continued) 
MessageCauseAction
NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help. 
						

							support.dell.comSystem Messages and Beep CodesC-3Parity check 2 
nnnn
A parity error was found in 
the I/O bus at address nnnn.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)Real time clock 
error
The CMOS battery that 
supports data stored in 
NVRAM may be dead.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)Shadow RAM 
failed at off-
set: nnnn
Shadow RAM failed at 
address nnnn.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)CMOS battery is 
dead—Replace 
and run Setup
The CMOS battery is dead.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)System cache 
error—cache 
disabled
The primary cache internal to 
the microprocessor has 
failed.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)System CMOS 
checksum bad—
run Setup
The BIOS has been updated.
CMOS has been corrupted or 
modified, possibly by an 
application program that 
changes data stored in 
CMOS.Reboot the computer and press  as soon as 
you see the Dell logo screen to enter the Setup 
program and reconfigure the system. If the prob-
lem persists, call Dell for technical assistance. (For 
instructions, see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)System RAM 
failed at off-
set: nnnn
System RAM failed at 
address nnnn in the 64-KB 
block at which the error was 
detected.Call Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, 
see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)System timer 
error
A chip on the system board 
may be malfunctioning.Run the System Board Devices device group        
and the Keyboard Controller Test in the Dell 
Diagnostics. (For instructions, see “Running the    
Dell Diagnostics” found later in this chapter.) Table C-1.  System Error Messages (continued) 
MessageCauseAction
NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help. 
						

							C-4Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting GuideSystem Beep Codes
When errors occur during the boot routine that cannot be reported on the integrated 
display or on an external monitor (if attached), the computer may emit a series of 
beeps that identify the problem. The beep code is a pattern of sounds: for example, 
one beep, followed by a burst of three beeps, followed by a single beep, and then 
another burst of three beeps (code 1-3-1-3) means that the computer was unable to 
read data from the keyboard. This information is important to the Dell support staff if 
you need to call for technical assistance.
When a beep code is emitted, write it down on a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist 
found in Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” and then look it up in Table C-2. If you are unable 
to resolve the problem by looking up the meaning of the beep code, use the Dell 
Diagnostics to identify a more serious cause. (See “Running the Dell Diagnostics” 
found later in this chapter) If you are still unable to resolve the problem, call Dell for 
technical assistance. (See Chapter 5, “Getting Help,” for instructions.) 
.Table C-2.  Beep Codes   
MessageCauseAction
1-2-2-3      ROM BIOS checksum failureRun the System Board Devices device group in the 
Dell Diagnostics. (See “Running the Dell Diagnostics” 
found later in this chapter for instructions.) If the 
program does not load, call Dell for technical assis-
tance. (For instructions, see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)
1-3-1-1DRAM refresh failureRun the System Board Devices device group in the 
Dell Diagnostics. (See “Running the Dell Diagnostics” 
found later in this chapter for instructions.) If the 
program does not load, call Dell for technical assis-
tance. (For instructions, see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)
1-3-1-3Keyboard controller test failureRun the PC-AT Compatible Keyboards device group in 
the Dell Diagnostics. (For instructions, see “Running 
the Dell Diagnostics” found later in this chapter.)
1-3-4-1RAM failure on address line nnnnRun the System Memory device group in the Dell 
Diagnostics. (See “Running the Dell Diagnostics” found 
later in this chapter for instructions.) If the program 
does not load, call Dell for technical assistance. (For 
instructions, see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)
1-3-4-3RAM failure on data bits nnnn of 
the high byte on the memory busRun the System Memory device group in the Dell 
Diagnostics. (See “Running the Dell Diagnostics” found 
later in this chapter for instructions.) If the program 
does not load, call Dell for technical assistance. (For 
instructions, see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)
NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help. 
						

							support.dell.comSystem Messages and Beep CodesC-5
1-4-1-1RAM failure on data bits nnnn of 
the low byte on the memory busRun the System Memory device group in the Dell 
Diagnostics. (See “Running the Dell Diagnostics” found 
later in this chapter for instructions.) If the program 
does not load, call Dell for technical assistance. (For 
instructions, see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)
2-1-2-3Check ROM copyright notice 
failureRun the System Board Devices device group in the 
Dell Diagnostics. (“Running the Dell Diagnostics” found 
later in this chapter for instructions.) If the program 
does not load, call Dell for technical assistance. (For 
instructions, see Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)
2-2-3-1Interrupt mask register failureCall Dell for technical assistance. (For instructions, see 
Chapter 5, “Getting Help.”)Table C-2.  Beep Codes (continued)   
MessageCauseAction
NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary in the system Help. 
						

							C-6Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide 
						

							support.dell.comRegulatory NoticesD-1APPENDIX D
Regulatory Notices
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is any signal or emission, radiated in free space       
or conducted along power or signal leads, that endangers the functioning of a radio 
navigation or other safety service or seriously degrades, obstructs, or repeatedly 
interrupts a licensed radio communications service. Radio communications services 
include but are not limited to AM/FM commercial broadcast, television, cellular        
services, radar, air-traffic control, pager, and Personal Communication Services (PCS). 
These licensed services, along with unintentional radiators such as digital devices, 
including computer systems, contribute to the electromagnetic environment.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is the ability of items of electronic equipment to 
function properly together in the electronic environment. While this computer system 
has been designed and determined to be compliant with regulatory agency limits for 
EMI, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If 
this equipment does cause interference with radio communications services, which 
can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to 
correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:•
Reorient the receiving antenna.•
Relocate the computer with respect to the receiver.•
Move the computer away from the receiver.•
Plug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer and the receiver 
are on different branch circuits.
If necessary, consult a Technical Support representative of Dell Computer Corporation 
or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. You may find 
the FCC Interference Handbook, 1986, to be helpful. It is available from the U.S. 
Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, Stock No. 004-000-00450-7 or      
on the World Wide Web at http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Compliance/WWW/
tvibook.html.
Dell computer systems are designed, tested, and classified for their intended 
electromagnetic environment. These electromagnetic environment classifications 
generally refer to the following harmonized definitions:•
Class A is typically for business or industrial environments.•
Class B is typically for residential environments. 
						

							D-2Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide
Information Technology Equipment (ITE), including peripherals, expansion cards, 
printers, input/output (I/O) devices, monitors, and so on, that are integrated into         
or connected to the system should match the electromagnetic environment 
classification of the computer system.A Notice About Shielded Signal Cables: Use only shielded cables for 
connecting peripherals to any Dell device to reduce the possibility of 
interference with radio communications services. Using shielded cables 
ensures that you maintain the appropriate EMC classification for the 
intended environment. For parallel printers, a cable is available from    
Dell Computer Corporation. If you prefer, you can order a cable from      
Dell Computer Corporation on the World Wide Web at http://www.dell.com/
products/dellware/index.htm. 
A Notice About Networked Computer Systems: Some Dell computer systems 
that are classified for Class B environments may include an on-board 
network interface controller (NIC). If your Class B system contains a NIC,     
it may be considered to be a Class A system at the time that the NIC is 
connected to a network. When the NIC is not connected to a network,     
your system is considered to be a Class B digital device.
Most Dell computer systems are classified for Class B environments. To determine 
the electromagnetic classification for your system or device, refer to the following 
sections specific for each regulatory agency. Each section provides country-specific 
EMC/EMI or product safety information.FCC Notices (U.S. Only)
Most Dell computer systems are classified by the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC) as Class B digital devices. However, the inclusion of certain       
options can change the rating of some configurations to Class A. To determine         
which classification applies to your computer system, examine all FCC registration 
labels located on the bottom or back panel of your computer, on card-mounting 
brackets, and on the cards themselves. If any one of the labels carries a Class A 
rating, your entire system is considered to be a Class A digital device. If all labels carry 
an FCC Class Brating as distinguished by either an FCC ID number or the FCC logo, 
(), your system is considered to be a Class B digital device.
Once you have determined your system’s FCC classification, read the appropriate 
FCC notice. Note that FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not 
expressly approved by Dell Computer Corporation could void your authority to operate 
this equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the 
following two conditions:•
This device may not cause harmful interference.•
This device must accept any interference received, including interference that 
may cause undesired operation. 
						

							support.dell.comRegulatory NoticesD-3Class A
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A 
digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to 
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is 
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the 
manufacturer’s instruction manual, may cause harmful interference with radio 
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause 
harmful interference, in which case you will be required to correct the interference at 
your own expense.Class B
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B 
digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to 
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. 
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not 
installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction manual, may 
cause interference with radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that 
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause 
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined           
by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the 
interference by one or more of the following measures:•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.•
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.•
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which     
the receiver is connected.•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.
The following information is provided on the device or devices covered in this 
document in compliance with FCC regulations: •
Model number: PPI•
Company name: Dell Computer Corporation
EMC Engineering Department
One Dell Way
Round Rock, Texas 78682 USA 
512-338-4400Modem Regulatory Information
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules. On the bottom of your 
computer is a label that contains, among other information, the FCC registration 
number and ringer equivalence number (REN) for your equipment. If requested, you 
must provide this information to the telephone company. 
						

							D-4Dell Inspiron 7500 System Reference and Troubleshooting Guide
The REN is used to determine the quantity of devices that may be connected to the 
telephone line. Excessive RENs on the telephone line may result in the devices not 
ringing in response to an incoming call. In most areas, the sum of all the RENs on 
your telephone line should be less than five to ensure proper service from the 
telephone company. To be certain of the number of devices that you may 
connect to a line, as determined by the total RENs, contact your local telephone 
company.
The registration jack Universal Service Order Code (USOC) used by this equipment is 
RJ-11C. An FCC compliant telephone cord and modular plug is provided with this 
equipment. This equipment is designed to be connected to the telephone network or 
premises wiring using a compatible modular jack that is Part 68 compliant. 
This equipment cannot be used on public coin-phone service provided by the 
telephone company. Connection to party line service is subject to state tariffs.
There are no user serviceable parts on the modem contained in your computer.
If your telephone equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone 
company will notify you in advance that service may be temporarily discontinued. If 
advance notice is not practical, the telephone company will notify you as soon as 
possible. Also, you will be advised of your right to file a complaint with the FCC if you 
believe it is necessary.
The telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment, operations, or 
procedures that could affect the operation of this equipment. If this happens, the 
telephone company will provide advance notice in order for you to make necessary 
modifications to maintain uninterrupted service.
If you experience trouble with this telephone equipment, refer to Chapter 5,              
“Getting Help,” or the section titled “Contacting Dell” in your system Help to find the 
appropriate telephone number for obtaining customer assistance. If the equipment is 
causing harm to the telephone network, the telephone company may request that 
you disconnect the equipment until the problem is resolved.Fax Branding
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 makes it unlawful for any 
person to use a computer or other electronic device, including fax machines, to send 
any message unless such message clearly contains in a margin at the top or bottom 
of each transmitted page or on the first page of the transmission, the date and time it 
is sent, identification of the business, other entity, or individual sending the message,     
and the telephone number of the sending machine or such business, other entity, or 
individual. The telephone number provided may not be a 900 number or any other 
number for which charges exceed local or long-distance transmission charges.IC Notice (Canada Only)
Most Dell computer systems (and other Dell digital apparatus) are classified by the 
Industry Canada (IC) Interference-Causing Equipment Standard #3 (ICES-003) as 
Class B digital devices. To determine which classification (Class A or B) applies to your