NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the desktop. Turn off
the computer and try again.
System error messages
Table 26. System error messages
System message Description
Alert! Previous attempts at booting this
system have failed at checkpoint [nnnn]. For
help in resolving this problem, please note
this checkpoint and contact Dell Technical
Support
The computer failed to complete the boot routine three
consecutive times for the same error.
CMOS checksum error
RTC is reset, BIOS Setup default has been loaded.
CPU fan failure
CPU fan has failed.
System fan failure
System fan has failed.
Hard-disk drive failure
Possible hard disk drive failure during POST.
Keyboard failure
Keyboard failure or loose cable. If reseating the cable does not
solve the problem, replace the keyboard.
No boot device available
No bootable partition on hard disk drive, the hard disk drive
cable is loose, or no bootable device exists.
● If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the
cables are connected and that the drive is installed
properly and partitioned as a boot device.
● Enter system setup and ensure that the boot sequence
information is correct.
No timer tick interrupt
A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning or
motherboard failure.
NOTICE - Hard Drive SELF MONITORING SYSTEM
has reported that a parameter has exceeded
its normal operating range. Dell recommends
that you back up your data regularly. A
parameter out of range may or may not
indicate a potential hard drive problem
S.M.A.R.T error, possible hard disk drive failure.
Real-Time Clock (RTC Reset)
The Real Time Clock (RTC) reset function allows you or the service technician to recover Dell systems from No POST/No
Power/No Boot situations. The legacy jumper enabled RTC reset has been retired on these models.
Start the RTC reset with the system powered off and connected to AC power. Press and hold the power button for 20 seconds.
The system RTC Reset occurs after you release the power button.
Backup media and recovery options
It is recommended to create a recovery drive to troubleshoot and fix problems that may occur with Windows. Dell proposes
multiple options for recovering Windows operating system on your Dell PC. For more information. see Dell Windows Backup
Media and Recovery Options.
Troubleshooting your computer
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