System Beep Codes
When an error that cannot be reported on the monitor occurs during a boot routine,
the computer may emit a series of beeps that identify the problem. Thebe^ cocfeis a
pattern of sounds; for example, one beep followed by a second beep and then a burst
of three beeps {code 1-1-3) means that the computer was unable to read the data in
nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM). This information is valuable to the Dell
technical support representative 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 12, "Getting Help," and then look it up in Table 3-2. 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 Chapter 5, "Running the Dell Diag
nostics"). If you are still unable to resolve the problem, see Chapter 12, "Getting
Help," for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
Table 3-2 . Sysfem Beep Codes
Code
Couse
Corrective Action
1-1-3 NVRAM write/read failure Replace the system board. See
Chapter 12, "Getting Help," for instruc
tions on obtaining technical assistance.
1-1-4 BIOS checksum failure This fatal error usually requires that you
replace the BIOS firmware. See
Chapter 12, "Getting Help," for instructions
on obtaining technical assistance.
1-2-1
1-2-2
1-2-3
Programmable interval-
timer failure
DMA initialization failure
DMA page register write/
read failure
Replace the system board. See
Chapter 12, "Getting Help," for instruc
tions on obtaining technical assistance.
1-3-1 Main-memory refresh
verification failure
Remove and reseat the DIM Ms. If the
problem persists, replace the DIMMs. See
"Adding Memory" in Chapter 8 for instruc
tions on installing or removing DIMMs. If
the problem still persists, replace the sys
tem board. See (Chapter 12, "Getting
Help," for instructions on obtaining techni
cal assistance.
NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the abbreviation and
acronym list that precedes the Index.
Messages and Codes 3-9
