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algorithms provide a much more reliable means of testing the memory. These tests are
able to catch some of the memory errors that the 32‐bit Diagnostics tests do not.
o Machine Check Exception Always On – PSA+ Diagnostics has the Machine Check
Exception feature on, which aids in troubleshooting processor problems. This feature
does not exist in the standard version. The purpose of this tool is to separate processor
problems from memory problems. This is especially true when detecting bad cache on
the processor. On older systems, if bad cache is detected, the keyboard lock lights
indicate a memory error. This situation can result in an incorrect dispatch of memory
instead of a more appropriate processor replacement.
o System Board Tests Consolidated – The original PSA Diagnostics list the various system
board tests separately. In the PSA+ Diagnostics, these are all now combined under one
heading.
o There are two ways to launch this utility:
The LCD BIST
The PSA introduced a new test for LCDs known as LCD Built in Self Test (BIST).
•
It is only available if the platform supports it.
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While running this test, the LCD is operating on its own, free of the video controller, which may be
discrete (a video card) or onboard (on the system board). The test allows you to differentiate an LCD
panel problem from a problem with the controller. If colors are displayed across the screen without
any trouble, then the problem lies outside the LCD. However, if the colors are not displayed or the
screen does not display even one solid color, then the problem is only with the LCD.
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The BIST begins during the PSA test if the system prompts a graphics test error (0334 or 0333) and
the user presses Y to continue testing. During the LCD BIST, a solid screen is shown and five different
colors are displayed. While colors are displayed, the system beeps every two seconds and the lock
lights (Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock) illuminate to indicate that the test is running. This can
be used to determine if something is wrong with the display.
The Dell Crash Analysis Tool
The Dell Crash Analysis Tool is designed to search for software and driver versions installed on the
system to identify any known conflicts. This tool:
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Can identify driver and software problems on Dell systems.
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MpMemory Algorithms provide DIMM isolation to identify which module is
failing.
There are more tests to choose from.
This feature avoids the 4 GB limit and can test up to 64 GB.
Hold down the key while pressing the power button to turn on the system.
Press at the welcome screen for the one‐time boot menu, then select
Diagnostics from the list.
Table of Contents
Troubleshooting
