Throughout this guide, there may be blocks of text printed in bold type or in italic type. These blocks are notes, notices, and cautions, and they are

used as follows:

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your system.

NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate

injury.

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Initial release: 20 Sep 1999

Last revised: 6 Apr 2001

Table of Contents

Troubleshooting

Summary of Contents for Dell Precision 420

Page 1 Corporation; NetWare is a registered trademark of Novell, Inc. Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Computer Corporation disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Page 2: Connecting Audio Devices
(DSP) engine that retrieves and restores spatial sound information, directional cues, and other sonic nuances that are typically missing or are altered by electronic reproduction of stereo sound. This section also describes the audio application programs that Dell has installed on your hard-disk drive, and it tells you how to reinstall audio drivers if necessary.
Page 3: Adjusting Volume
Microphones Your computer system supports most nondynamic monaural microphones for personal computers. You can purchase a microphone separately from Dell. NOTE: Do not use standard microphones. Use only microphones designed for personal computers. Connect the audio cable from the microphone to the microphone jack (see...
Page 4: Using Audio Utilities
Using Audio Utilities The operating system installed on your Dell system has its own utilities for playing audio CDs and recording or playing .wav files: For Windows 98 and Windows NT 4.0, use Sound Recorder under Multimedia in the Accessories program folder to control the input of devices from which you are recording .wav data.
Page 5: Backing Up Your Files
Back to Contents Page Basic Checks: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide Overview Checking Connections and Switches Backing Up Your Files Look and Listen Basic Checks System Setup Overview If your Dell™ computer system is not working as expected, and if you are not sure what to do, start your troubleshooting with the procedures in this section. This section guides you through basic steps to solve basic computer problems. It also directs you to further detailed troubleshooting information and procedures to solve more complex problems.
Page 6: Look And Listen
See "Getting Help" for instructions on getting technical assistance from Dell. when you access a drive The absence of a familiar When you turn on your system, you can hear the hard-disk drive spin up, and the system tries to access the boot sound files from the hard-disk drive or the diskette drive.
Page 7 This problem can happen if you changed your system's hardware configuration and forgot to run System Setup. To correct this problem, enter System Setup, correct the setting for the corresponding System Setup program option, and reboot your system. If after checking the settings in System Setup you have not resolved the problem, see "Dell Diagnostics." Back to Contents Page...
Page 8 Back to Contents Page Installing System Board Options: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide Overview Microprocessor Upgrades Expansion Cards Replacing the System Battery Adding Memory Overview This section describes how to install the following options: Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), redundant arrays of independent disks (RAID), and accelerated graphics port (AGP) expansion...
Page 9: Expansion Cards
12 LVD SCSI connector 13 Primary EIDE connector 14 Standby power LED 15 Control panel connector 16 Power connector (mini tower chassis) 17 Power connector (mini tower chassis) 18 TAPI/modem connector 19 Card cage area fan connector 20 Auxiliary sound input connector 21 PCI/RAID expansion card slot 22 Auxiliary hard-disk drive access LED connector 23 PCI expansion slots...
Page 10 One AGP Pro110 card, two PCI cards, and one RAID card (mini tower chassis only) Expansion Slots The Dell Precision 420 systems provide five PCI 2.2-compliant expansion slots. Slot 5 is shared with the RAID port function. NOTE: No Industry-Standard Architecture (ISA) slots are provided.
Page 11 1 Filler bracket 4. Insert the expansion card into the expansion-card connector. If the expansion card is full-length, insert the front end of the card into the corresponding card guide on the inside front of the chassis as you insert the card into its connector. Insert the card-edge connector firmly into the expansion-card slot.
Page 12: Adding Memory
Dell Precision 420 systems support dual direct Rambus dynamic random-access memory (RDRAM) channels. The channels are designated A and B. Dell Precision 420 systems support Rambus in-line memory modules (RIMMs) in 64-, 128-, 256-, and 512-megabyte (MB) capacities. The RIMMs feature error checking and correction (ECC).
Page 13 8. When the system memory total is correct, press the <Esc> key to exit the System Setup program. 9. Run the Dell Diagnostics to verify that the RIMMs are operating properly. See your Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Guide for information on running the diagnostics and troubleshooting any problems that may occur.
Page 14: Microprocessor Upgrades
1. Go to http://support.dell.com/. 2. Complete the one-time registration process, if you have not already done so. 3. Click Dell Knowledge Base under Support Tools, enter second processor in the Search Documents by Words in Title option, and click Go.
Page 15 CAUTION: Before you remove the computer cover, see "Safety First—For You and Your Computer." 1. Remove the computer cover according to the instructions in "Removing the Computer Cover (Desktop Chassis)" or "Removing the Computer Cover (Mini Tower Chassis)." 2. Rotate the power supply as described in "Rotating the Power Supply Away From the System Board (Desktop Chassis)"...
Page 16: Replacing The System Battery
NOTE: If a setup password has been assigned by someone else, contact your network administrator for information on resetting the chassis intrusion detector. 12. If you installed a second processor and your system is running Microsoft Windows NT 4.0, reinstall the operating system. See your Windows NT documentation for instructions.
Page 17 you may damage the system board by prying off the socket or by breaking circuit traces on the system board. Pry the battery out of its socket with your fingers or with a blunt, nonconductive object, such as a plastic screwdriver (see Figure 10). Figure 10.
Page 18: International Dialing Codes
Asia and Other Regions Contact Numbers Americas Contact Numbers Overview When you need to contact Dell, use the telephone numbers, codes, and electronic addresses provided in the following sections. "International Dialing Codes" provides the various codes required to make long-distance and international calls.
Page 19 Area Code Toll-Free Number Brazil Customer Support, Technical Support toll free: 0800 90 3355 Sales toll free: 0800 90 3366 Web site: http://www.dell.com/br Canada Automated Order-Status System toll free: 1-800-433-9014 (North York, Ontario) AutoTech (Automated technical support) ...
Page 20 Customer Service toll free: 1-800-624-9897 (Credit Return Authorization Numbers) National Accounts (systems purchased by established Dell national accounts [have your account number handy], medical institutions, or value-added resellers [VARs]): Customer Service and Technical Support (Return toll free: 1-800-822-8965...
Page 21 Support and Customer Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care 0660-8056 Care. Home/Small Business Technical Support 795676-04 Preferred Accounts/Corporate Technical Support 0660-8779 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com Belgium (Brussels) Technical Support 481 92 88 Customer Care 481 91 19 Home/Small Business Sales ...
Page 22 Fax 0825 004 701 Switchboard 0825 004 700 Switchboard (Alternative) 99 75 40 00 Sales 0825 004 700 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: web_fr_tech@dell.com Corporate Technical Support 0825 004 719 Customer Care 0825 338 339 Fax ...
Page 23 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: web_it_tech@dell.com Luxembourg Technical Support (Brussels, Belgium) 481 92 88 Home/Small Business Sales (Brussels, Belgium) toll free: 080016884 NOTE: Customers in Luxembourg call Belgium Corporate Sales (Brussels, Belgium) 481 91 00 for sales, customer, and...
Page 24 902 100 130 Customer Care 902 118 540 Switchboard 902 118 541 902 118 539 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: web_esp_tech@dell.com Corporate Technical Support 902 100 130 Customer Care ...
Page 25 Technical Support Outside of Japan (Dimension and Inspiron) 81-44 520-1435 Technical Support (Dell Precision™, OptiPlex, and toll free: 0120-1984-33 Latitude) 81-44 Technical Support Outside of Japan (Dell Precision, 556-3894 OptiPlex, and Latitude) Customer Care 556-4240 24-Hour Automated Order Status Service 556-3801 Home and Small Business Group Sales 556-3344 Individual User Sales ...
Page 26 South Africa Technical Support 709 7710 (Johannesburg) Customer Care 709 7707 Sales 709 7700 706 0495 Switchboard 709 7700 Web site: http://support.euro.dell.com E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com Southeast Asian/Pacific Customer Technical Support, Customer Service, 60 4 633-4810 Countries...
Page 27: Before You Start Testing
Before You Start Testing Overview If you experience a problem with your computer, run the Dell Diagnostics before you call Dell for technical assistance. The diagnostics tests check your computer's hardware without additional equipment and without the risk of destroying data. When the diagnostics tests complete without indicating problems, you can have confidence in your computer's operation. If the tests indicate a problem you cannot solve, the test error messages provide important information you need when talking to Dell's service and support personnel.
Page 28: Advanced Testing
10. Select Quick Tests from the Test All Devices or Test One Device option to perform a quick check of your computer or a specific device. Quick Tests runs only the subtests that run fast and do not require user interaction. Dell recommends that you select Quick Tests first to increase your chance of locating the problem quickly.
Page 29 Keys Explains the functions of all keystrokes that can be used in the Dell Diagnostics Device Group Describes the highlighted group in the Device Groups list on the main menu and provides reasons for using certain...
Page 30 Dell Precision WorkStation 420 systems equipped with LS-120 SuperDisk drives have the drive configured as the master device on the secondary EIDE channel. If you install an LS-120 SuperDisk drive in your system, Dell recommends that you configure the drive for this setting.
Page 31 of the bracket should be flush with the front of the drive (see Figure 2 Figure 2. Attaching the Drive Bracket to the New Drive 1 Bracket tabs (2) 2 Bracket To further ensure proper positioning of the drive in the chassis, insert and tighten all four screws in the order in which the holes are numbered (the holes are marked "1"...
Page 32 Diagnostics. NOTE: Tape drives sold by Dell come with their own operating software and documentation. After you install a tape drive, refer to the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing and using the tape drive software.
Page 33 Squeeze the metal tabs that extend from each side of the drive bracket toward each other, and pull the bracket out of the bay (see Figure NOTE: For easier access inside the chassis, you may want to rotate the power supply out of the way temporarily. To do so, see " Rotating the Power Supply Away From the System Board (Desktop Chassis)."...
Page 34 Diagnostics. NOTE: Tape drives sold by Dell come with their own operating software and documentation. After you install a tape drive, refer to the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing and using the tape drive software.
Page 35 Back to Contents Page...
Page 36: Troubleshooting The Monitor
3. If your monitor is equipped with a self-test function, run the monitor self-test (refer to your monitor manual to determine if your monitor has a self-test function). 4. Insert the Dell Precision ResourceCD in the CD-ROM drive, reboot the system, and run the Video test group in the Dell Diagnostics.
Page 37: Troubleshooting I/O Ports
Serial Port 1, Serial Port 2, and Parallel Port options are set to Auto. 2. Insert the Dell Precision ResourceCD in the CD-ROM drive, reboot the system, and run the Serial/Infrared Ports test group and/or the...
Page 38: Troubleshooting A Serial I/O Device
3. Run the parallel printer's self-test. If the test fails, the printer is faulty. If the problem still is not resolved, the system board may be faulty. See "Getting Help" for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. Troubleshooting a Serial I/O Device If the information in "Troubleshooting Basic I/O Functions"...
Page 39 Back to Contents Page Getting Help: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide Help Overview Contacting Dell Back to Contents Page...
Page 40 Back to Contents Page Glossary: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide A • B • C • D • E • F • G • H • I • J • K • L • M • N • O • P • Q • R • S • T • U • V • W • X • Y • Z ampere(s) alternating current ACPI Advanced Configuration and Power Interface. ACPI enables operating-system-directed power management rather than system BIOS-directed power management.
Page 41 COM (serial) port of a computer. bulletin board service. A computer system that serves as a central location for accessing data or relaying messages by modem. For example, the Dell™ TechConnect BBS contains the latest version of software such as video drivers. If your system has a modem, you can access the BBS and download the most recent version of this software. beep code A diagnostic message in the form of a pattern of beeps from your computer's speaker.
Page 42 byte Eight contiguous bits of information; the basic data unit used by your computer. Celsius C-RIMM continuity Rambus inline memory module. Rambus continuity modules are used to populate empty RIMM slots in some systems. cache To facilitate quicker data retrieval, a storage area for keeping a copy of data or instructions. For example, your computer's BIOS may cache ROM code in faster RAM.
Page 43 Dell Diagnostics A comprehensive set of diagnostic tests for your Dell computer. To use the diagnostics, you must boot your computer from the Dell Diagnostics Diskette. See your Diagnostics and Troubleshooting Guide for more information about using the Dell Diagnostics.
Page 44 Information about the system's components is displayed as a MIF file or through the Dell Inspector program. DMTF Desktop Management Task Force. A consortium of companies representing hardware and software providers, of which Dell Computer Corporation is a member. dots per inch DPMS Display Power Management Signaling.
Page 45 Electromagnetic Compatibility electromagnetic interference expanded memory manager. A utility that uses extended memory to emulate expanded memory on computers with an Intel386™ or higher microprocessor. Expanded Memory Specification EPROM erasable programmable read-only memory electrostatic discharge expanded memory A technique for accessing RAM above 1 MB. To enable expanded memory on your computer, you must use an EMM. You should configure your system to support expanded memory only if you run application programs that can use (or require) expanded memory. expansion bus Your computer contains an expansion bus that allows the microprocessor to communicate with controllers for peripheral devices, such as a network card or an internal modem.
Page 46 foot/feet File Transfer Protocol gram(s) gravities gigabyte(s). A gigabyte equals 1,024 megabytes or 1,073,741,824 bytes. graphics coprocessor See coprocessor. graphics mode A video mode that can be defined as x horizontal by y vertical pixels by z colors. group As it relates to DMI, a group is a data structure that defines common information, or attributes, about a manageable component. graphical user interface hexadecimal.
Page 47 ICES Interface-Causing Equipment Standard (in Canada) ISA Configuration Utility input/output. The keyboard is an input device and a printer is an output device. In general, I/O activity can be differentiated from computational activity. For example, when a program sends a document to the printer, it is engaging in output activity; when the program sorts a list of terms, it is engaging in computational activity.
Page 48 Kbit(s) kilobit(s), 1,024 bits. Kbps kilobit(s) per second key combination A command requiring that you press multiple keys at the same time. For example, you can reboot your computer by pressing the <Ctrl><Alt><Del> key combination. kilogram(s), 1,000 grams. kilohertz, 1,000 hertz. local area network.
Page 49 MB/sec megabytes per second Managed PC Boot Agent. MBA is a package of multiprotocol preboot firmware and software tools that enables the network administrator to remotely administer software, operating systems, and applications over the network. Mbps megabits per second master boot record memory A computer can contain several different forms of memory, such as RAM, ROM, and video memory.
Page 50 MS-DOS® Microsoft Disk Operating System MTBF mean time between failures multifrequency monitor A monitor that supports several video standards. A multifrequency monitor can adjust to the frequency range of the signal from a variety of video adapters. millivolt(s) NDIS Network Driver Interface Specification network interface controller NetWare® Loadable Module nonmaskable interrupt.
Page 51 Program Diskette Maker The Program Diskette Maker allows you to create program diskette sets, or master copies, of software that Dell installed on your computer system. It is essential that you create these diskette sets as soon as possible. You may need a set of master diskettes if you ever experience problems with your hard-disk drive and need to reinstall your Dell-installed software.
Page 52 RAID redundant arrays of independent disks random-access memory. The computer's primary temporary storage area for program instructions and data. Each location in RAM is identified by a number called a memory address. Any information stored in RAM is lost when you turn off your computer. RAMDAC random-access memory digital-to-analog converter RDRAM...
Page 53 An I/O port used most often to connect a modem to your computer. You can usually identify a serial port on your computer by its 9-pin connector. service tag number A bar code label on the computer that identifies it when you call Dell for customer or technical support. shadowing A computer's system and video BIOS code is usually stored on ROM chips.
Page 54 system board As the main circuit board, the system board usually contains most of your computer's integral components, such as: Microprocessor Controllers for standard peripheral devices, such as the keyboard Various ROM chips Frequently used synonyms for system board are motherboard and logic board. system configuration information Data stored in memory that tells a computer what hardware is installed and how the computer should be configured for operation.
Page 55 without starting any TSR programs. Underwriters Laboratories upper memory blocks. upper memory area The 384 KB of RAM located between 640 KB and 1 MB. If the computer has an Intel386 or higher microprocessor, a utility called a memory manager can create UMBs in the upper memory area, in which you can load device drivers and memory-resident programs. uninterruptible power supply. A battery-powered unit that automatically supplies power to your computer in the event of an electrical failure. Universal Serial Bus.
Page 56 Typically, a video adapter comes with video drivers for displaying popular application programs and operating systems in a variety of video modes. On some Dell computers, a video adapter is integrated into the system board. Also available are many video adapter cards that plug into an expansion-card connector.
Page 57 watt-hour(s) win.ini file A start-up file for the Windows operating system. When you start Windows, it consults the win.ini file to determine a variety of options for the Windows operating environment. Among other things, the win.ini file records what printer(s) and fonts are installed for Windows. The win.ini file also usually includes sections that contain optional settings for Windows application programs that are installed on the hard-disk drive.
Page 58 ...
Page 59 Installing an EIDE Hard-Disk Drive in the Mini Tower Chassis NOTE: Dell Precision WorkStation 420 computer systems normally use only small computer system interface (SCSI) drives; however, if you prefer EIDE drives, your system will support them. You may install either SCSI drives or EIDE drives; however, your system does not support a mix of both SCSI and EIDE hard-disk drives.
Page 60 1 Hard-disk drive bracket 2 Hinge tabs 3 Drive door handle 4 Drive door 5. Slide the drive into the chosen bay of the bracket, oriented so that the connectors on the back of the drive will face the back of the chassis when the bracket is reinstalled (see Figure 6.
Page 61 1 Drive cage 2 Drive bracket 3 Tabs 8. Connect a DC power cable to the power input connector on the back of the drive (see Figure Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly seated. 9.
Page 62 14. Partition and logically format your drive before proceeding to the next step. See the documentation for your operating system for instructions. 15. Test the hard-disk drive by running the Dell Diagnostics. 16. If the drive you just installed is the primary drive, install your operating system on the hard-disk drive.
Page 63 1 Hooks (3) 2 Screws (4) 3 1-inch drive (back) 4 Drive bracket 7. Reinstall the hard-disk drive bracket in the chassis (see Figure a. Insert the bracket into the chassis by inserting the hooks in the slots on the front of the chassis. b.
Page 64: Installing Scsi Devices
SCSI subsystem, refer to the documentation for your SCSI devices and/or your host adapter card. The following subsections offer some general guidelines. NOTE: Dell does not support mixing SCSI and EIDE hard-disk drives in the same system. If your system contains any EIDE hard-disk drives, do not install SCSI hard-disk drives.
Page 65 SCSI devices installed by Dell are configured correctly during the manufacturing process. You do not need to set the SCSI ID for these SCSI devices. If you attach additional optional SCSI devices, refer to the documentation for each device for information about setting the appropriate SCSI ID number.
Page 66 Drives" and your operating system documentation. 11. Test the SCSI devices. Test a SCSI hard-disk drive by running the Dell Diagnostics. To test a SCSI tape drive, refer to the documentation for the tape drive software to perform a tape drive backup and verification test.
Page 67 Back to Contents Page Hardware Configuration Features: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide Overview I/O Ports and Connectors Jumpers Interrupt Assignments System Board Labels Memory Allocations Overview This section provides specific information about the jumpers on your system board and the input/output (I/O) ports and connectors on the back panel of your computer.
Page 68: System Board Labels
Table 1. System Board Jumpers Settings Jumper Setting Description RTCRST Real-time clock and CMOS reset. Install a jumper plug on these pins for approximately 1 second to reset the contents of the real-time clock and the CMOS. Do not leave the jumper plug installed. PSWD Password features enabled.
Page 69: I/O Ports And Connectors
MOUSE PS/2 mouse connector 10/100 Ethernet RJ45 connector PANEL Control panel connector PARALLEL/SCSI Parallel connector over Wide SCSI connector (stacked) PCI1, PCI2, PCI3 PCI expansion-card connectors on primary PCI bus PCI4, (PCI5) PCI expansion-card connectors on secondary PCI bus PCI5\RAIDPORT RAID port connector extension to PCI5 RAID Optional RAID PCI expansion card connector extension...
Page 70 Port designations are used, for example, in software installation procedures that include a step in which you identify the port to which your printer is attached, thus telling your software where to send its output. (An incorrect designation prevents the printer from printing or causes scrambled print.) Serial Port Connectors If you reconfigure your hardware, you may need pin number and signal information for the serial port connectors.
Page 71 BUSY Busy Paper end SLCT Select AFD# Automatic feed ERR# Error INIT# Initialize printer SLIN# Select in 18-25 Signal ground External SCSI Connector The 68-pin external small computer system interface (SCSI) connector on the system back panel supports external Ultra SCSI devices such as scanners, zip drives, and optical drives.
Page 72 SCSI busy SCSI acknowledge SCSI reset SCSI message SCSI select SCSI command/data SCSI request SCSI in/out SCSI data bit 8 SCSI data bit 9 SCSI data bit 10 SCSI data bit 11 Keyboard and Mouse Connectors Overview Your system uses a Personal System/2 (PS/2)-style keyboard and supports a PS/2-compatible mouse. Cables from both devices attach to 6-pin miniature Deutsche Industrie Norm (DIN) connectors on the back panel of your computer.
Page 73 Table 7. Pin Assignments and Interface Signals for the Mouse Connector Signal Definition MFDATA Mouse data No connection Signal ground FVcc Fused supply voltage MFCLK Mouse clock No connection Video Connector For information on your video connector, see the manufacturer's specifications that came with your video card. NIC Connector Your system contains an RJ45 connector (see Figure 9) on the back panel for attaching an unshielded twisted pair (UTP) Ethernet cable, which is used in 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX networks.
Page 74: Interrupt Assignments
DATA Data in +DATA Data out Signal ground Microphone Jack You can use the microphone jack (see Figure 11) to attach a nondynamic monaural microphone for personal computers. Connect the audio cable from the microphone to the microphone jack. The microphone input is a mono source with maximum signal levels of 130 millivolts root mean squared (mVrms).
Page 75: Memory Allocations
IRQ4 COM1 and COM3 serial ports (if enabled in System Setup program) IRQ5 Available IRQ6 Diskette drive interface IRQ7 Parallel port (if enabled in System Setup program) IRQ8 IRQ9 Available IRQ10 Available IRQ11 Available IRQ12 Mouse controller IRQ13 Math coprocessor IRQ14 Primary EIDE interface (if enabled in System Setup program) IRQ15...
Page 76 000F0000-000FFFFF System BIOS 00100000-0010FFEF High memory area 0010FFF0-3FFFFFFF Extended memory 40000000-FFF7FFFF Reserved FFF80000-FFFFFFFF BIOS ROM NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the Glossary. Back to Contents Page...
Page 77: Technical Assistance
World Wide Web on the Internet The Internet is your most powerful tool for obtaining information about your computer and other Dell products. Through the Internet, you can access most of the services described in this section, including AutoTech, TechFax, order status, technical support, and product information.
Page 78: Problems With Your Order
TechFax Service Dell takes full advantage of fax technology to serve you better. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, you can call the Dell TechFax line toll- free for all kinds of technical information. Using a touch-tone phone, you can select from a full directory of topics. The technical information you request is sent within minutes to the fax number you designate.
Page 79: Product Information
Product Information If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, visit Dell's World Wide Web site at http://www.dell.com. For the telephone number to call to speak to a sales specialist, see "Contacting...
Page 80 Refer to your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system’s start-up files. If the computer is connected to a printer, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell. Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code: Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed: ...
Page 81: Before You Begin
Overview Your Dell Precision WorkStation 420 system supports a variety of internal options that expand system capabilities. This section prepares you to install options inside the computer. It describes how to remove and replace the computer cover and rotate the power supply away from the system board. It also familiarizes you with the internal components that you may handle if you install Dell™ hardware options.
Page 82: Removing The Computer Cover (Desktop Chassis)
Removing the Computer Cover (Desktop Chassis) 1. Turn off your computer and peripherals, and make sure that you unplug the computer from its electrical outlet before you remove the computer cover. Observe the Caution for Your Personal Safety and Protection of Your Equipment.
Page 83: Removing The Computer Cover (Mini Tower Chassis)
1 Release button (two, one each side) 6. If you are using a padlock to secure your system, reinstall the padlock. NOTE: After you remove and replace the cover, the chassis intrusion detector causes the following message to be displayed at the next system start-up: ALERT! Cover was previously removed.
Page 84: Replacing The Computer Cover (Mini Tower Chassis)
Figure 5. Removing the Computer Cover (Mini Tower Chassis) 1 Release button Removing and Replacing the Front Bezel (Mini Tower Chassis Only) To access some drive bays in the mini tower chassis, you must first remove the front bezel. To remove the front bezel, you first must remove the computer cover (see "...
Page 85 To replace the computer cover, perform the following steps: 1. Check all cable connections, especially those that might have come loose during your work. Fold cables out of the way so that they do not catch on the computer cover. Make sure cables are not routed over the drive cage—they will prevent the cover from closing properly. 2.
Page 86: Inside Your Computer
1 Card guide (front of chassis) 2 AGP card brace 3 Card brace spring 4 Screw 5 Plastic card guide 6 Slot 7 Tab 3. Slide the brace toward the front of the system until it disengages from the slot in the card guide; then rotate the brace up and lift it away from the chassis.
Page 87 1 Externally accessible drive bays 2 Hard-disk drive bracket 3 Power supply 4 System board Figure 11 shows a desktop chassis computer with its cover removed. Refer to this illustration to locate interior features and components of the desktop chassis discussed in this guide. Figure 11.
Page 88 To access some components on the system board, you may have to rotate the system power supply out of the way. To rotate the power supply, perform the following steps. CAUTION: Before you remove the computer cover, see "Safety First—For You and Your Computer."...
Page 89 Power supply release handle 2 Power supply To return the power supply to its original position, perform the following steps. 1. Rotate the power supply to its original position and hold it there (see Figure 14). 2. Rotate the power supply release handle towards the back of the system until it is closed. Make sure that the handle latches onto the power supply properly and the power supply slides slightly to the back of the system and locks in place.
Page 90 Computer." You need the following items to perform the procedures in this section: Your Dell Precision ResourceCD A small flat-blade screwdriver and a #1 Phillips-head screwdriver (or quarter-inch hex-nut driver) Your system also includes an interior system service label affixed to the inside of the computer cover (see...
Page 91: Safety First-For You And Your Computer
While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis to dissipate any static electricity that might harm internal components. In addition, Dell recommends that you periodically review the safety instructions in your System Information Guide. Removing and Replacing the Computer Cover If your computer has a desktop chassis, see "Removing the Computer Cover (Desktop...
Page 92: Troubleshooting A Damaged Computer
9. Replace the computer cover and reconnect the system to an electrical outlet. Also, reconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines to the computer. 10. Insert the Dell Precision ResourceCD into the CD-ROM drive, reboot the system, and run the System Board Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics.
Page 93: Troubleshooting Expansion Cards
4. If the problem is not resolved, insert the Dell Precision ResourceCD into the CD-ROM drive, reboot the system, and run the RAM test group in the Dell Diagnostics.
Page 94: Troubleshooting The Video Subsystem
A system board problem can result from a defective system board component, a faulty power supply, or a defective component connected to the system board. If an error message indicates a system board problem, perform the following steps: 1. Insert the Dell Precision ResourceCD into the CD-ROM drive, and reboot the system. Run the System Board Devices test group in the Dell Diagnostics.
Page 95: Troubleshooting Drives
6. Insert the Dell Precision ResourceCD into the CD-ROM drive, reboot the system, and run the appropriate test group in the Dell Diagnostics. If the Dell Diagnostics identifies a faulty drive, replace the drive. If the Dell Diagnostics identifies a faulty controller, the system board may be faulty. See "Getting Help"...
Page 96: System Features
To take advantage of this technology, you must have a SMART-compliant hard-disk drive in the computer. All enhanced integrated drive electronics (EIDE) and small computer system interface (SCSI) hard-disk drives shipped with Dell Precision 420 systems are SMART-compliant.
Page 97 (visible on the back panel) to indicate problems or operational states. The following software is included with your Dell™ computer system. NOTE: Backup copies of most drivers for your system are included on the Dell Precision ResourceCD. If you need to reinstall any of these drivers, see the documentation that accompanies the CD.
Page 98 Important Note to Microsoft Windows 98 and Windows NT 4.0 Users Your system was configured by Dell to optimize the features of your computer and of the Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 or Windows 98 operating system. If you need to reinstall either of these operating systems, you must install several supplemental items to return the system to its full functionality.
Page 99: Front Panel
SCSI boot diskette See the Dell Microsoft Windows 98 Setup Guide for general installation information for Windows 98 and for information about other drivers or supplements that may be required. For installation instructions for the various drivers, see the document reccommended in the following list: Windows 98 SCSI controller drivers —...
Page 100: Back Panel
Dell recommends that you attach external devices only while the computer is turned off unless you are instructed otherwise in the documentation for the particular device. Then turn the computer on before turning on any external devices unless the documentation for the device specifies otherwise.
Page 101: Getting Help
Getting Help If at any time you do not understand a procedure described in this guide or if the system does not perform as expected, Dell provides a number of tools to help you. For more information on these help tools, see "Getting...
Page 102: System Messages
Back to Contents Page Messages and Codes: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide Overview Diagnostics Messages System Messages Diagnostic LEDs System Beep Codes Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) Platform Event Traps Warning Messages Overview Your application programs, operating system, and the computer itself are capable of identifying problems and alerting you to them. When a problem occurs, a message may appear on your monitor screen or a beep code may sound.
Page 103 System fan failed or was blocked Ensure that an operational system fan is Alert! Previous system fan failure. during the previous operating installed, connected to the system board, session. and that chassis ventilation slots are not blocked. Processor 0 exceeded its Ensure that an operational processor fan Alert! Previous temperature failure at Processor 0.
Page 104 Drives." diskette may be faulty. Diskette subsystem reset failed The diskette drive controller may be Run the Diskette tests in the Dell faulty. Diagnostics. No diskette is in the drive. The Put a diskette in the drive or close the...
Page 105 Dell Computer Corporation. operating specifications. bootable drive, enter System Setup change the appropriate drive setting to None.
Page 106: System Beep Codes
The beep code is 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 invaluable to the Dell support staff if you need to call for technical assistance.
Page 107: Warning Messages
4-4-3 Math-coprocessor test failure Run the System Board Devices tests in the Dell Diagnostics. 5-2-2-1 Mismatch RDRAM device count; unsupported Replace RIMM pair with supported matching device count. RIMM device count or technology 5-2-2-2 Mismatch RDRAM technology or timing pair;...
Page 108 "Working Inside Your Computer" for precautionary steps to take prior to performing the suggested action. If the problem persists after you perform the suggested problem resolution(s), contact Dell Technical Support for further help. Table 4 lists the LED patterns for the back panel diagnostic LEDs, probable causes, and suggested corrective actions. The LED patterns are shown as they appear on the mini tower chassis.
Page 109 Possible system board failure Remove any internal options recently added and restart the system to retest. Possible system board resource Remove any internal conflict options recently added and restart the system to retest. Possible system board resource Remove any internal conflict options recently added and restart the system to retest.
Page 110 Microsoft Windows® 98 Microsoft Windows 2000 NOTE: The NIC drivers for systems running Dell-installed Windows operating systems are installed at the factory. Instructions for reinstalling these NIC drivers are included in the documentation that came with your Dell Precision Resource CD.
Page 111: Connecting To A Network
5. Select the appropriate frame type (according to your network requirements) from the Value menu, and click OK. 6. Follow the instructions on your screen to complete the configuration. Reinstalling the NIC Drivers For information on how to reinstall the NIC driver, see the documentation that came with your Dell Precision ResourceCD. Back to Contents Page...
Page 112 Contacting Dell: Dell [document title] Diagnostics: Dell Precision WorkStation 420 System User's Guide (check for broken links) Installing Diskette, LS-120 SuperDisk, Tape, and CD-ROM Drives: Dell Precision WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide External Components: Dell Precision WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide...
Page 113: Scsi Device Considerations
These can be enhanced integrated drive electronics (EIDE) or SCSI devices. NOTICE: Your hard-disk drive subsystem must consist of either SCSI hard-disk drives or EIDE hard-disk drives. Dell does not support a mix of both types of hard-disk drives.
Page 114 Reinstalling SCSI Drivers Dell installed the SCSI drivers for your system on your system's hard-disk drive. Backup copies of these drivers are provided on the Dell Precision ResourceCD. If your system's SCSI drivers are ever inadvertently erased or corrupted, you must reinstall them. For instructions on reinstalling these drivers, refer to the documentation that came with your Dell Precision Resource CD.
Page 115: Ac Power Recovery
Back to Contents Page System Setup Options: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide AC Power Recovery Primary Video Controller Asset Tag Remote Wake Up Auto Power On Report Keyboard Errors Boot Sequence Second Processor CPU Information System Data Diskette Drive A and Diskette Drive B System Date Integrated Devices...
Page 116: Cpu Information
Selecting MBA causes the system to prompt you to press <Ctrl><Alt><b> at the Dell™ logo screen during boot. A menu then appears that allows you to select PXE, RPL, BootP, or NetWare as the active boot mode. If a boot routine is not available from the network server, the system tries to boot from the next device in the boot sequence list.
Page 117: Integrated Devices
NIC is enabled and set to boot the system remotely from a network server. If you select On w/ MBA, you are prompted to press <Ctrl><Alt><b> at the Dell logo screen during the boot routine. A menu then appears that allows you to select PXE, RPL, BootP, or NetWare as the active boot mode.
Page 118: Keyboard Numlock
Mode You can set this option to PS/2 (the default) , EPP, ECP, AT, or Off to disable the port. Set this option according to the type of peripheral device connected to the parallel port. To determine the correct mode to use, see the documentation that came with the device.
Page 119 If the system generates a drive error message the first time you boot your system after you install an EIDE drive, it may mean that a third-party drive (a drive not purchased from Dell) does not work with the automatic drive-type detect feature. If you suspect that your problem is related to drive...
Page 120 The system's five-character service tag number, which was programmed into NVRAM by Dell during the manufacturing process. Refer to this number during technical assistance or service calls. The service tag number is also accessed by certain Dell support software, including the diagnostics software.
Page 121 System Security configures the following password and chassis intrusion options: System Password Password Status Setup Password Chassis Intrusion CPU Serial Number Press <Enter> to configure these options as explained in the following subsections. System Password System Password displays the current status of your system's password security feature and allows you to assign and verify a new password. No one can assign a new password unless the current status is Not Enabled, which is displayed in bright characters.
Page 122: System Time
select Reset, and then choose Enabled, Enabled-Silent, or Disabled. NOTE: When the setup password is enabled, you must know the setup password before you can reset the Chassis Intrusion option. CPU Serial Number CPU Serial Number determines whether the microprocessor serial number(s) (if any) is provided to programs that request it. When Enabled is selected, the system provides the microprocessor serial number(s) to programs that request it.
Page 123: Installing And Configuring Software
Back to Contents Page Software Checks: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide Overview Program Conflicts Installing and Configuring Software Memory Address Conflicts Error Messages Interrupt Assignment Conflicts Input Errors Overview Because most computers have several application programs installed in addition to the operating system, isolating a software problem can be confusing.
Page 124: Program Conflicts
Program Conflicts Some programs may leave portions of their setup information behind, even though you have exited from them. As a result, other programs cannot run. Rebooting your system can confirm whether or not these programs are the cause of the problem. Programs that use specialized subroutines called device drivers can also cause problems with your computer system.
Page 125: System Information
Back to Contents Page Technical Specifications: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide Microprocessor Graphics and Video System Information Key Combinations Expansion Bus Controls and Indicators Memory Power Drives Physical Ports and Connectors Environmental Microprocessor Microprocessor type dual Intel® Pentium® III microprocessors with a front-side bus external speed of 133 megahertz (MHz).
Page 126: Ports And Connectors
Mini tower chassis five PCI expansion-card connectors PCI expansion-card connector size 120 pins PCI expansion-card connector data width 32 bits (maximum) Memory Architecture Rambus dynamic random-access memory (RDRAM) technology Rambus in-line memory module (RIMM) slots four (dual channels) RIMM module capacities 64-, 128-, 256-, and 512-megabyte (MB) 800-MHz Rambus DRAM with error checking and correction (ECC) Minimum and maximum total RDRAM 128 MB to 2 gigabytes (GB)
Page 127: Key Combinations
Primary EIDE hard-disk drive 40-pin connector Secondary EIDE hard-disk drive 40-pin connector Diskette drive 34-pin connector Remote Wake Up 3-pin connector Audio 4-pin CD-IN connector, 4-pin AUX pocket connector; and 4-pin TAPI pocket connector Fans 3-pin connectors Graphics and Video Graphics architecture: Desktop chassis AGP Pro50 (4X) video card (see manufacturer's specifications)
Page 128 Physical Desktop chassis: Height 16.5 centimeters (cm) (6.5 inches) Width 44.2 cm (17.4 inches) Depth 45 cm (17.7 inches) Weight 10.9 kilograms (kg) (24 pounds [lb]) Mini tower chassis: Height 49 cm (19.3 inches) Width 22.1 cm (8.7 inches) Depth 45.2 cm (17.8 inches) Weight 16.8 kg (37.0 lb) or more, depending on options installed...
Page 129 Back to Contents Page System Setup: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide Using System Setup System Setup Options Back to Contents Page...
Page 130: Entering System Setup
After you set up your system, run System Setup to familiarize yourself with your system configuration information and optional settings. Dell recommends that you print the System Setup screens (by pressing <Print Screen>) or record the information for future reference.
Page 131: System Setup Navigation Keys
NOTICE: The password features provide a basic level of security for the data on your system. However, they are not foolproof. If your data requires more security, it is your responsibility to obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as data encryption programs. Your Dell™ system is shipped to you without the system password feature enabled. If system security is a concern, you should operate your system only with system password protection. You can assign a system password whenever you use the System Setup program.
Page 132 password have full use of the system. When System Password is set to Enabled, the computer system prompts you for the system password just after the system boots. change an existing system password, you must either know the password or have access to the inside of the computer. If you assign and later forget a system password, you need your computer key to get inside the chassis, where you can change a jumper setting to disable the system password feature.
Page 133: Using The Setup Password Feature
Assign a system password. Using the Setup Password Feature Your Dell system is shipped to you without the setup password feature enabled. If system security is a concern, you should operate your system with setup password protection. You can assign a setup password whenever you use the System Setup program.
Page 134: Disabling A Forgotten Password
If the two passwords are different, the setup password can be used as an alternate system password. However, the system password cannot be used in place of the setup password. After you verify the password, the Setup Password setting changes to Enabled. The next time you enter the System Setup program, the system prompts you for the setup password.
Page 135 9. Assign a new system password and/or setup password. 10. Reset the chassis intrusion detector. Back to Contents Page...
Page 136 Back to Contents Page Troubleshooting: Dell Precision™ WorkStation 420 Systems User's Guide Basic Checks External Components Messages and Codes Internal Components Software Checks Getting Help Diagnostics Back to Contents Page ...

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