Indications of a failed POST (Power On Self Test)

  • If the computer is displaying the Dell logo and does not move past that point, it has probably failed POST.
  • If the power indicator lights up and it is amber or orange, this is usually an indicator that it has failed POST.
  • If you see any text on a black screen, the computer is currently performing the POST. If the computer stays in that condition and does not move past it, it has probably failed POST.
  • If the monitor displayed anything at all during the startup process but is now black, this probably indicates that the computer failed POST.
  • If the computer is beeping or if Diagnostic LEDs/Power LEDs are flashing, note down if there is a particular pattern in which it beeps or flashes and the colours seen.
  • If the computer is not beeping and the Diagnostic LEDs and caps/num/scroll lock LEDs are not flashing or lit, unplug all connections and remove all media communication devices (e.g. external monitors); reconnect one at a time and check if the computer functions.

Published by

Bob Lin

Bob Lin, Chicagotech-MVP, MCSE & CNE Data recovery, Windows OS Recovery, Networking, and Computer Troubleshooting on http://www.ChicagoTech.net How to Install and Configure Windows, VMware, Virtualization and Cisco on http://www.HowToNetworking.com

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